This article features some handheld HDR1 landscape test images captured with the M.Zuiko PRO 7-14 f/2.8 and PRO 12-40  f/2.8  zoom lenses. While many photographs prefer to use tripods when doing landscape photography, my preference is to always shoot handheld if at all possible.

NOTE: Click on images to enlarge.

When using HDR1 in-camera technology, my E-M1X captures 4 images in rapid succession, then combines them in camera. The output is both in jpeg and RAW formats. Obviously using HDR1 technology for landscape photography that includes trees and other foliage, works best when wind conditions are calm.

We often consider using HDR (high dynamic range) technology and/or techniques when facing high contrast lighting. It was an overcast and somewhat dreary day when I captured the images in this article… which we may not associate with using HDR techniques.

High dynamic range techniques, or technology, can be helpful in a few different situations, not just for high contrast scenarios. It can help bring out intricate details in complex scenes… in both highlight and shadow areas.

Many of the HDR1 test images in this article were shot from locations under a canopy of tree limbs. The image above is a good example of that situation.

HDR can create more visual balance in an image thus enhancing its overall appeal. It can also help us deal with a range of lighting that may be present in the same composition.

When I’m out with my camera doing handheld landscape photography, I find that I’m using in-camera HDR1 technology on a more frequent basis. I have found that It provides me with more latitude in post when processing RAW files. This is particularly useful when trying to bring out a myriad of details in an image. It also saves me a lot of time in post since I don’t have to have to combine multiple images after-the-fact using software in post.

Since buying my Olympus gear in June 2019 I have never brought a tripod with me with I’m out with one of my E-M1X bodies. I know I can rely on its outstanding IBIS (in-body image stabilization) performance in both slow shutter speed situations, and when using in-camera technology like HDR1 that captures and combines multiple exposures in camera.

As is the case with all of my article, my objective for this posting is simply to share a selection of images with readers, along with some information on how I created the featured photographs.

There is no intention on my part to suggest to readers that they should follow my approach. On the contrary, I strongly encourage my readers to experiment with their camera gear in whatever way their spirit and creativity moves them.

As we all know, two photographers can be at the same location, use the identical camera gear, and use the same software in post… and end up with different results.

The most important thing is for each of us to continue to push ourselves and our camera gear (regardless of what we may own) to discover what is possible for us on an individual basis.

 Technical Note

Photographs were captured handheld using camera gear as noted in the EXIF data. Images were produced from RAW files using my standard process in post. All images were captured using in-camera HDR1 technology. This is the 1,323 article published on this website since its original inception in 2015.

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