Crag Camp with the OBs Crew...

[Patrad Fischroy]

I agree with you on the "overcooked" images that are out there, however even they do occasionally have some merit as an artistic representation, sometimes giving an otherworldly feel.

For the purpose of accurate representation, or in other words a "worship of the natural word", HDR can also have a place. It effectively does what you describe with the masks and two exposures, but with some intermediate steps as well. The point made about HDR that I like the most is the intent to represent a wider dynamic range of tones, more akin to what the eye can discern, using sensors (the camera) and media (the paper) that do not have the range.

In short it is a tool that can be used (competently or incompetently) to produce images. And it is only a tool.

[mtruman]

Y
Jim,
Have you ever tried using the software magic of HDR ( High Dynamic Range) processing? This is a technique where you get a number of images at bracketed settings and basically take the best parts of each image and blend them together. A simple explanation, I know. Here is a primer on it for those interested

http://www.naturescapes.net/072006/rh0706_1.htm

Some feel that it is "cheating" but it really is no worse than any other manipulation. There are some great examples of it out there ( and some that are in my opinion less so).

Here's another HDR utility: http://www.mediachance.com/hdri/index.html I've used some of the other utilities from these guys and they tend to be quite good. Haven't gotten around to trying this one. It's only about $50 and there's a free trial so it's probably worth giving a shot if you want to experiment with HDR...

[Patrad Fischroy]

Amazing photo....stop teasing us, we want to see more. Any photos of Crag Camp itself?

If everyone from the summit took off who fed the cat?

The observer comments have a little blub on this trip with some pictures of the camp inside and out.

[Greg in RI]

WOW!!

Nice pix. My favorite time of year in the Whites. I have spent many a night at the camp in September. I'm jealous!! I can remember some amazing sunsets and a few sunrises with undercast. Great spot. Need I say more?

Thanks,

Greg

[rockin rex]

Jim amazing pictures from the porch. Nothing beats a night at Crag Camp. In 2007 Seek The Peak my son and I spent the night at Crag camp. The night at Crag Camp is a memory we will hold between us for life. Those who haven't been to Crag Camp you have to check it out.