I am posting this image as a demonstration of the process outlined in my journal. I selected this image because of the extreme light values, and the inherent difficulties of maintaining detail in shadows and highlights with this kind of scene.

By processing a relatively flat image in the RAW stage, and by utilizing the Highlight and Shadows adjustments of Photoshop, details is all areas of the image are visible. For instance, there is a pile of rocks just visible in the lower left corner and detail along the path remains visible. More detail is possible, but I have toned it down a bit in order to maintain some of the other goals of a photographic image. (see below) The process produces detail results that are similar to HDR processing, but does not seem to create color shifts in the same way or produce an “otherworldly” effect.

In processing an image, the goal is not just maximum detail, but rather the highest possible detail with the full range of light from non-detail brights to non-detail blacks. This image does not fully fit that requirement, although it is very close. Tweeking it would be possible but I have not done so because the purpose of this image, is to demonstrate that with careful processing at each stage, even difficult lighting situations like this, can result in an image that retains detail in the foreground without compromising the colour and detail of the sky. (If you are unable to see detail in the foreground, you may need to adjust your monitor. Photo Friday has a tool that will help you adjust your monitor for brightness and contrast. [link] )

I will continue to present the process in my journal of Thursday March 27th, 2008,later today.