User's Manual

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Photomatix Essentials 4.0 User Manual
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
Section 1: HDR (High Dynamic Range) Photography
1.1 What is HDR Photography? 2
1.2 How to Take Photos for HDR Processing 3
1.3 Set Up Your Camera 3
1.4 Recommended 2 EV Separation 4
1.5 Three Essential Steps 5
Section 2: Using Photomatix Essentials
2.1 Step 1: Load Bracketed Photos 6
2.1.1 Step 1 Overview 6
2.1.2 Drag and Drop Photos 6
2.1.3 Browse for Photos 8
2.1.4 Select / Deselect Loaded Photos 9
2.1.5 Load Other Photos 9
2.1.6 Alignment and Deghosting Options 10
2.2 Step 2: Adjust & Preview 11
2.2.1 Step 2 Overview 11
2.2.2 Working With Presets 12
2.2.3 Details Enhancer Settings 12
2.2.4 Contrast Optimizer Settings 13
2.2.5 Tone Compressor Settings 13
2.2.6 Exposure Fusion Settings 14
2.3 Step 3: Finish & Save 15
2.3.1 Step 3 Overview 15
2.3.2 Apply Finishing Trouches 15
2.3.3 Save and Return to Step 1 16
Section 3: Preferences
3.1 Single Image Thumbnail Selection 17
3.2 Skip Merge Dialog 17
3.3 Noise Reduction Options 18
3.4 Refresh Preview Continuously 18
Glossary 19
Getting More Information and Help 21