Can't say I'm really that into HDR myself...I've played with it here or there, but generally always preferred a more natural look to my own photos. ; I think I've only ever done maybe 2 true HDR stacks - and didn't have much luck at them either - but I also didn't use any specialized HDR software. ; When HDR comes out with a more natural look, I can see the advantages - it can be fine tuned from mild to wild. ; Wild is ragingly popular the past few years, but there's also a few milds out there too.
Ironically, I do use HDR a lot with my current cam, mostly because I can do it in-camera, handheld, without taking any more time or thought than snapping a regular photo. ; Plus, unless the setting is cranked to the max, it comes out more on the 'natural' side. ; In fact, quite a few photos I post I don't even bother to mention the HDR aspect, because I'm using it more as a way to recover shadows without processing or noise from gained-up shadows.
Here's a quick selection of in-camera HDR shots I've taken with the A550 - most of which weren't going for any fantasy appearance, but just dealing with unbelievably harsh afternoon sunlight, deep shadows, or hard contrast situations:
All two-shot HDRs, varying from +1 to +2 EV, aligned and stacked in camera, no processing.
I'm sure we're going to see some wild n crazy HDR stuff in here - there are some true artists who can really create some bold and beautiful art with HDR. ; I'm not one of them - even though I don't really go for that in my own photos, I do still enjoy looking at and admiring those who really know how to put it together right, and pairing it with good composition skills.
; I have a special feeling for that rollercoaster. ; I tackled my fear of them, on that ride. ; Twice!
