The HDR mode is the abbreviation for “High Dynamic Range” and translated it means: A process with a high dynamic range. But what does that mean? To put it simply, HDR is a process that can be used to optimally display colors and contrasts in difficult lighting situations. The best results are achieved with landscape shots in particular.
So if you select the HDR mode in your software, the app will automatically take multiple (usually 3) pictures. A too bright, a too dark and a normal picture. The software then merges the captured images into a single photo. You could also say that they merge with each other so that no area appears too dark or too light. Awesome, isn’t it?
When do I use the HDR function?
HDR shots are best suited for backlighting, landscape photographs and in situations with strong light differences. Also recommended at dusk. Because problems that arise under the conditions mentioned, such as too bright or too dark photos or flat details are automatically corrected. The result is images with more depth, optimal exposure and strong contrasts, which also deserve to make their way into the photo album to find.
When is it still beneficial to switch to HDR mode?
Whenever the sun is glaring: Sunbeams wash colors and often cause glare in the lens. Likewise, areas in the photo appear overexposed and at the same time disturbing shadows can also appear. Portraits in sunshine are also very interesting for HDR, because a quick bracketing shot captures all the details and creates even lighting without harsh shadows.
When is the HDR mode not recommended
Under no circumstances should you switch to HDR mode if there is movement, among other things, in small children or animals. Since HDR takes several photos in quick succession, blurring quickly occurs when there is movement. The mode cannot correct dark scenes and backgrounds either. Even with bright and vibrant colors, HDR might not be a good choice. In situations where it’s too bright or too dark, HDR can come to the rescue if you want to reclaim faded colors. However, if you shoot too colorfully in a well-lit environment, HDR mode could wash out the colors and produce a rather dull image.
In this photo, the colors look natural.
Here you can clearly see that the colors appear washed out.
The HDR function is already pre-installed on most smartphones. If this is not the case for you, you can simply download an app with this function from the Play Store. And now we wish you a lot of fun trying it out.
Best Regards,
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