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How Do I Make a HDRI Map in Photoshop?

Last updated on September 23, 2022 @ 11:56 pm

Creating a high-dynamic range image, or HDRI, is a great way to add interest and depth to your photos. By taking multiple exposures and combining them into one image, you can bring out details that would otherwise be lost in shadows or highlights.

And the best part is, you can do it all in Photoshop! Here’s how:

Step 1: Set up your camera and tripod. If you’re hand-holding your camera, make sure to use a fast shutter speed to avoid camera shake. You’ll also want to use a low ISO setting to minimize noise.

Step 2: Take a series of exposures, bracketing your shots by 2-3 stops. For example, if your base exposure is f/8 at 1/250 sec., try taking one shot at f/5.6 at 1/500 sec., one at f/11 at 1/125 sec., and one at f/16 at 1/60 sec.

Step 3: Open the exposure series in Photoshop as layers. To do this, go to File > Scripts > Load Files into Stack. In the resulting dialog box, select the images you want to use, then click OK.

Step 4: Choose which layer will be your base exposure, and delete the others. Then rename the remaining layer “Base Exposure” for reference.

Step 5: Add the remaining exposures as layers on top of the base exposure layer. To do this, go to File > Scripts > Load Files into Stack once again.

Step 6: In the Layers panel, set the blend mode of each new layer to “Lighten.” This will allow only the lightest pixels from each exposure to show through, effectively creating a high-dynamic range image.

Step 7: Adjust the opacity of each layer until you’re happy with the results. You may also want to add a curves or levels adjustment layer to fine-tune the overall contrast and tone of your image.

Step 8: Save your image as a 16-bit TIFF file for best quality. And that’s it! You’ve now created a beautiful high-dynamic range image using nothing but Photoshop.

PRO TIP: How Do I Make a HDRI Map in Photoshop?

Warning: Please be aware that creating a HDRI map in Photoshop can be a very complex process. If you are not familiar with the process, we recommend that you seek out professional help.

Dale Leydon

Dale Leydon

Sysadmin turned Javascript developer. Owner of 20+ apps graveyard, and a couple of successful ones.