Merging batches of photos into HDR images

If you use auto-bracketing on a regular basis, you may accumulate many sets of photos that can be processed as HDR (high dynamic range) images. You can use the Batch Merge feature to quickly merge each of your bracketed sets into HDR images. You can then evaluate which sets make good candidates for the more powerful HDR tools in the Exposure Merge feature. In some cases, Batch Merge might be the only HDR processing you need to do.

Batch Merge organizes photos into sets, based on the time between photos (within a defined timeframe) or a defined number of photos per set.

To merge batches of photos into HDR images

In the Manage workspace, click File

HDR

Batch Merge.

Click Add files, navigate to the folder you want, select the files, and click Open.

The photos are sorted into groups of three by default.

Click the folder icon beside the Save processed files in box, and browse to the folder where you want to save the processed files.

Choose a file type from the Save as drop-list.

Drag the JPEG quality slider to set the file size and quality for the processed images.

If you want to save .hdr versions of the processed files (so you can edit them in Exposure Merge), mark the Save .hdr file check box.

In the Group photos by drop-list, choose one of the following:

•

Sets — lets you choose a number in the Photos per set box. This option works well if you consistently shoot bracketed photos in predetermined batches.

•

Time — lets you choose a time interval in the Seconds per group box. This option works well if you vary the number of photos in a bracketed set.

If the photos were taken without a tripod, enable the Auto-align check box and choose an alignment option form the Method drop-list.

If you want to crop unaligned edges along the borders of the photos, mark Auto crop.

Click Process.

Processing might take a few moments, depending on the size and number of photos.

You can now navigate to the location where you saved your process files and evaluate them.