HDR image of The World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta using NIK software's new HDR Efex Pro

I had initially processed this image with Photoshop CS5's HDR Pro. The results turned out better, in my opinion, with NIK's new HDR Efex Pro. There are a myriad of directions I could have gone with this but I felt this image deserved it's colors to be vibrant & rich.

Comments welcome.

http://www.photoshopus​er.com …tfolios/view/im​age/244580

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NIceee!!!

Thanks for the compliment, Rich.

fantastic.

Generally, I prefer HDR to reflect reality, but certain subjects can get away with a little heavier tonemapping, which then fall into the realm of digital art (and this is one of them). Looks good, and I like how you kept the "entrance" sign intact.

Thanks, Argyle. I agree. For most images I like to stay closer to the reality side of tone mapping. This one seemed to just scream for a push toward more of an exaggerated look. I had processed the image initially with Photomatix last summer. When CS5 introduced, I re-processed with it's HDR Pro & did get better results. However, NIK's HDR Efex Pro blows both of them out of the water for the gamut of realistic to futuristic looks & does it easily in such a nice interface. NIK's software has been the most valuable add-on software I've purchased. They rock!

P.S. This image will be on display in Atlanta in November & December at www.digitalartsstudio.​net as a 35x52.5 canvas gallery wrap. It looks incredible!

Is the NIK plug-in that much better than Photomatix? I use their Silver Efex Pro plug-in and really like the creativity/functionali​ty that it offers. Photomatix does have some limitations, so I may have to take a look at the NIK offering...

100% better. You can download a free 15 day trial at http://www.niksoftware​.com/hdrefexpro/usa/en​try.php . I'm not affiliated with NIK or any other company but I could be one of their spokespeople. You'll see for yourself their interface is elegant & functional, the options for tonemapping & using their proprietary control points really make their software top notch. I watched a webinar the other day where a photographer also recommended adding Color Efex Pro's tonal contrast to HDR images. It adds a nice touch & as usual, you can globally or selectively change the opacity of it's effect.

Thanks Doug...I'll give it a look. I also get a 15% discount on NIK offerings through NAPP, so all the more better. Not sure about the single image HDR mentioned in their promo...kinda goes against the grain/whole dynamic range thing.

Great on the discount. My NAPP membership has paid for itself many times over. After using HDR Efex Pro, I think you'll probably be like me & not touch Photomatix or CS5 HDR Pro again. Like you said, it does go against the HDR grain, but in a pinch, it works great for the right image.