The Airstream Chronicles Continued

One of the first HDRs produced here at the Airstream!

Days ago I was thinking about my journey into toying with HDR photography.  Somewhere in 2007 I went on a reading binge, a Photoshop learning binge, and finally, an HDR learning curve you wouldn’t believe.

I know, lots of people just jump right into it.  What can I tell you?  I’m an engineer, and I approached it from a “learn about it first, then apply it second.”  I think that approach has helped me evolve as a photographer as well.

While thinking about where I started I decided to take a look back at some of the images I started with.  One image came to mind when thinking about my earliest HDRs, and I opened up an older Lightroom library to take a look once more.

Now, this image isn’t a “seller” at the gallery.  Honestly, folks who’ve seen it in print think it’s nice, but not that nice.  I understand where they’re coming from.  But for me?  Yeah, it’s a different story.

Going out to shoot this cabin near Perkinsville I had several indoor scenes in mind.  I produced 3 HDRs in total that I was satisfied with, and then there was this image.  The wood, texture, window screen, and the outdoor scene showing through the broken boards…….  Yeah, that’s what I was looking for.

So, for all of you out there that have a “favorite” personal photo that doesn’t do anything for anyone else……that’s okay, you’re not alone.  Don’t discount that first important change that pushes you to bigger and better things.  And make sure to look back occasionally to see where you’ve come from and what you’ve learned.  You might just put a smile on your face!