First foray into HDR - thoughts? Suggestions?

[tirediron]

...This one I have submitted is a a GND used in post. Not as good as a GND used on the camera. The decision that you need to make for a particular shot is when do I use dynamic range optimization in camera, when do I use HDR, and what settings do I use.

Hmmm... well, I still like mine better!

 

[skieur]

...This one I have submitted is a a GND used in post. Not as good as a GND used on the camera. The decision that you need to make for a particular shot is when do I use dynamic range optimization in camera, when do I use HDR, and what settings do I use.

Hmmm... well, I still like mine better!

The problem with yours was underexposure with commensurate lack of detail in the foreground at the left. How is that better?

 

[TheOcho]

Like the 2nd HDR edit better than the first and the composition, to me, is fine as it lends perspective of the lighthouse and the purpose behind a lighthouse. Cropping out the foreground would kill that perspective IMO.