HDR from layers

[Apneamd]

I recently took multiple bracketed pictures of the eclipse. Obviously, as the sun moves, the sun is not in the same place in all these pictures. So I created multiple layers and put each one of these 7 exposures in separate layers. Then I aligned them two at a time using Difference. So far, so good. But then, I would like to create an HDR image with these 7 layers. Is there a way of doing this? I had to save each layer as a Tiff file and then open them in the HDR program. Is there an easier way?

thanks

Luis

[WILDCAT54]

crop and save each layer as a jpg to keep the images aligned. Then file> automate > Merge to HDR

[Apneamd]

That's exactly what I did, only I saved Tiff files, not JPEG. I know how to do an HDR. The question is, "can it be directly from layers?"

[WILDCAT54 · Accepted solution]

Another method would be to run an action on your working document on top of your existing layers.

Here's a link to a free HDR action - HDR Tools by forfie on DeviantArt

Another, but time consuming method would be to duplicate each layer three times. On the bottom layer change your exposure to a negative number, underexposing the image. Leave the middle layer as is and set the top layer to a positive exposure making it over exposed. Play with the blending modes of each layer until you get an effect you like.

below is a screen shot of the above method

[Trevor.Dennis]

I suspect that the best you can do is use Export > Layers to Files and then then import to HDR

[Stephen_A_Marsh]

Just stumbled over this old topic... Another method would be to select all the layers and then convert to a smart object, then use Layer > Smart Objects > Stack Mode: Mean to create an average, then use adjustments like Shadow/Highlight, curves, USM etc. Or use HDR toning etc.