Separating myself w/ HDR CC Please

Im trying to find an angle or "Niche" that other TOG's in my area are not covering. I will give HDR a try!!. Feedback is appreciated...!!

Step 1, three shots SOOC (canon 7d - Tokina 11-16 @ f22)
Step 2, processed using photoshop - HDR pro
step 3, processed using LR4

Image before processing in LR4 (imported from photoshop)

What do you mean separating yourself with HDR?

I guess "seperate myself from the 'Pack'" Just trying to do something different from other photographers in my area. Ive been to several galleries and seen little to No printed HDR work (in any form). I'm hoping to strengthen my skillet in this particular imaging style and produce works that are unique in my area

Edit: skillset, I meant skillset...LoL

I'm not sure galleries are going to be too excited by overcooked HDR. Plus your horizon is off.

Before trying HDR, you can start with getting that water line level:p

Seriously, way overdone in my view. You are in a gorgeous location, find something that appeals to you subject wise, be different in that way. Create your "look".

I would recommend against HDR and for figuring out lighting and filters.

This isn't a bad shot, but it's not all that good either. I've been there and I just don't get any good emotion from this shot. There is no good focal point or subject. Sky and reflection is nice but just not enough for a compelling, well put together landscape.

Before I went all Artsy on it....

Not for me.actually, it seems OOF on this one, just too much processing...

tak0eye wrote in post #15662164
Before I went all Artsy on it....


any better?

That doesn't really look any different.

Always good to have a few other sets of eyes to look at a piece. I'll keep at it for sure.... they'll get better! Thanks

Good luck! It's always a learning curve with this hobby!

Numenorean wrote in post #15662217
That doesn't really look any different.

I removed a filter that had added a little haze and saturation....(second photo has the filter. Third photo has the filter removed). Little bit of a difference..

Trees are a bit less dark - that doesn't really fix the other issues. The technical aspects aren't bad, but the composition, mood, emotion, subject - that's what needs work.

Before trying to find a niche in processing, gimmicks or trends, you might want to separate yourself by taking better basic photos than your area photogs. Everyone will admire your work a whole lot more. I have seen some of your images and I see you have some talent and no shortage of opportunities (surf 'n scenery).
I would recommend doing some research on what makes a shot "good" in addition to knowing your camera and lens well.

I understand the "separation" you are searching for.
Rock Bands have had to do this for a long time, I call it, having a "gimmick"

Anyone can make a living, but if you want a bit more than that, you have to have this gimmick or something to set you apart from the others.

Examples: KISS, Ansel Adams, Clark Little, Bob Marley, Green Day, Nirvana, Spinal Tap.
(whos the artist in every mall that mass produces paintings that when you put light on it, the street lights look like they are glowing?)

HDR can do it for you, if thats what you want to focus on, do it, You'll find a following if its out there.