Another HDR question

[bjrouse]

I exposed an image @ -3, -1.5, 0, +1.5 and +3
I am trialling Photomatix.
Anyway, I combined all these images and when it processed it looked disgraceful. I tried every slider in tone mapping and couldn't get it even close to looking reasonable.
Does anyone know why? Are my stops to far apart?
Something, anything please.

This is the image I tried on, to try and reduce the skies harshness

Brendan

 

[flyingpanther]

Hi Brendan,
I am viewing your image on a very small screen so I can't tell if this is your final Hdri or your neutral exposure. If you could post your other single frame images and the final result with your tone mapping settings some of us here may be able to offer some tips.

 

[Digital Matt]

Honestly, you could have a nice photo with just two exposures, combined in photoshop, or using a graduated neutral density filter. If all you are trying to do is manage a high dynamic range scene, then don't use an HDR program.

 

[PatriK-b]

If you plan to use HDR program, use -3,0,+3 only. -1.5 & +1.5 won't add anything. As you have around 5-7 steps in each shoot, information contained in -1.5 and +1.5 are already available in other pictures.

Post links to -3 & +3 exposures, we'll tell you what you can expect from them.

What are you expecting from HDR? Reducing over-burnt sky only? Want realistic rendering or fantastic?