Multnomah Falls Oregon HDR

I couldn't help set up a 3 shot HDR with my new D800. Sturdily mounted on my trusty Manfrotto tripod I used my timer to trigger the shutter. It is probably my best ever photo of this Oregon landmark.

That's lovely Bob! Thought may I be so bold as to suggest a slight saturation or contrast boost in the greenery at the sides of the fall? Other than that it is lovely, and I think I agree, one of the nicest I've seen of this one!

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Since this is a 3 shot HDR it suffers from a lack of contrast. I agree for the need for more as it appears a bit flat. I'll need to use Nik Software's Vivesa 2 because it allows localized control over such things. If I increased the contrast on the entire photo I'd lose detail in the water. Thanks.

Bob, is there a need for HDR? From what I have read, the D800 is a camera with a very good dynamic range. It's a nice shot but it just looks a bit flat.

Please read my note response above Ken.

Sorry Bob you missed my point, I was posing the question as to whether your new camera would of handled this as a one off exposer due to its very good dynamic range. From what I've read this new sensor has about another 1.5 - 2.0 stops of usable range.

This is not meant as a criticism, more of an inquisitive enquiry, as to be honest this camera is one I look at with a degree of envy and would not mind adding to my collection.

HDR (High Dynamic Range) photography is intended to provide proper exposure for highlights, mid-tones & shadows. A single photograph cannot always properly expose all three areas in one shot. This waterfall is steeped in shadow because of its location on a steep cliff. Either shadow detail or highlight detail in the water will suffer with a single frame. It's like a person standing in front of a bright window. With HDR you can have your cake & eat it too because you can expose properly for both by blending multiple frames.

When reviewers talk of a wide dynamic range in a camera it refers to the sensitivity of the camera's sensor to capture a wide spectrum of light, from the very feint to the overly bright. No camera can do both at the same time in a scene with super high contrast. I see your point Ken but don't feel you have a solid grasp of the situation in this waterfall. I do appreciate your input.