HDR Efex Pro or Photomatix Pro

[quinte]

I am looking to build a Windows computer dedicated to photo and video processing. I am going to upgrade to CS5 and am interested in delving into HDR. Which software do you guys recommend? Thanks

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[ann]

There are so many these days, and almost as many views on which is best.

PHotomatix is one of the most popular, why not download a few and test them out to see which suits your style.

Each will produce a different look. So don't be surprised.

I have been testing Photoengine these days and I believe it is on sale until the 22nd.

[nos33]

isn't CS6 supposed to come out soon? I would wait for that if you can

[CCericola]

I use the HDR Efex Pro. I found a lot of comparisons online and they are about par with each other. So it really comes down to the interface. I eventually went with HDR Efex because I already had Color Efex and I was familiar with their interface. I think they both have demos for you to try.

Definitely upgrade to CS5 or 5.5. Adobe has changed its upgrade policy to 1 version below. So when CS6 comes out next year you can only upgrade from 5 or 5.5
If you have a CS4 or lower you will have to buy the full version. You can also do a subscription if that works better for you.

[SlickSalmon]

Here are the results from the last time this question was asked:

http://www.thephotoforum.com/forum/hdr-discussions/235190-what-software-do-you-use-hdr.html

[Stiga]

If you want a natural look, choose the nik product.

If you want a slight glow or painterly effect, choose Photomatix.

Try them, both offer a free trial.

Martin

[quinte]

Thanks all. Will probably wait for CS6, but will probably go ahead with computer build.

[CCericola]

FYI you have to have CS5 or 5.5 to qualify for an upgrade to CS6. otherwise you have to buy the full version.

Sent from my iPad using PhotoForum

[shootermcgavin]

I think photoshop is horrible for HDR, the next set of exposures I get for HDR I'm going to buy photomatrix. There would have to be night and day difference for photoshop to catch up to photomatrix I just don't think it's going to happen.

[McNugget801]

photomatix for sure.

[DiskoJoe]

I like photomatix. but for video editing you might consider going mac so you can use final cut pro.

[bazooka]

Photomatix is what I use. I can't compare it to anything else, but their UI has improved drastically with version 4. And I have had a pleasant, no-hassle experience with their customer support.

[janok]

I have good experience with Photomatix. In addition I use Topaz Adjust.