Editing Software Adobe Photoshop CC (Windows)/Photomatix Pro
File Format RAW
Notes I tried a different method of creating an HDR. Try this sometime: Load images into Photomatix> Check box on lower left to save a 32 bit image>Merge the images> save the 32 bit image as a radiance file>Open the Radiance file into Photoshop ( for these purposes CC is preferable and will be explained from the standpoint of CC ) Note that the 32 bit image will look awful, either washed out or almost black. That's fine as this image will carry 100% of the tone range that all your bracketed files have taken into a single image> Create two or three copies as layers" Using the filters drop down box open into camera raw> At this point process or tonemap your image as you would a single image, I would suggest that the exposure slider be used first to at least arrive at an image that you can see. Fully process this image in the first panel then go to the brushes and make necessary adjustments. When you are satisfied open in Photoshop> Do this for the two or three copies that were created attempting to address specific areas that could not be adequately addressed in the first conversion> Repeat also for the other copies that you have made.> In Photoshop, use layer masks to blend your image into the best totality of all the processed images.> Flatten the layers>At this point the image should be converted to a 16 bit file. > Go to image> Mode>Tab on exposure gamma to restore your image to a 16 bit file. > The file may now be further processed in Photoshop as all the adjustment features will now be opened. > This method is very exacting and will allow you to render your image exactly as your eye saw it or your mind sees it without some of the various patinas that the normal tonemapping process creates.
A few hay bales basking in a sunset afterglow.
Another beautiful shot!