Nik Software HDR Efex Pro Reviewed

Over the past several years HDR photography went from a trendy editing style, all the way to a realistic look that allows images to showcase far more detail and dynamic range than ever before.  Programs have been making this process easier all the time, and Nik Software's HDR Efex Pro takes this process to a whole new level.  I was immediately impressed with how quick and simple the program was to use. 

Before HDR Efex Pro, I used PhotoMatix Pro which did a great job of rendering the HDR, but to make the image look good, I had to spend a lot of time in photoshop.  Finally there is a solution that makes this workflow simpler, and more real looking than ever before!

(HDR Image from Moab, UT created from 7 exposures using Nik Software HDR Efex Pro.  Click to Go Bigger)

 (Correct original exposure of scene combined with 6 other exposures to create HDR above.  Click to Go Bigger.)

For an explanation on dynamic range, please skip to the bottom of the article before reading the review.

Here's a great article from PhotoTut's+ that goes in depth for those just learning how to capture HDR images.

Nik Software HDR Efex Pro now available!

Just downloaded the free 15 day trial and ran two super-quick HDR's.  The program is UNREAL!!  Soo fast and simple, yet full of every adjustment you could ever need.  I was using photomatix pro before which I enjoyed, but this program put's it to shame!  I'll have to test it a bit more before I give the full review here on APB.  For now, head over to Nik Softwares Site and test it out for yourself.

The program has far more adjustments than I've ever seen, and they all work at hyper-speed.  This IS the next-generation of HDR imaging tools!

Here's the two sample HDR's that I created in a just a few minutes.  Let me know what you think of the program in the comments below based on your experiences with the trial.  Definitely going to have to buy this one!