HDR vs Flash
I frequently get questions about the difference between HDR images and flash images. Most of the time when explaining the difference, I think about how useful it would be to be able to visually show the advantages and disadvantages of both. After reading this article you will understand how both are useful, but ultimately a combination of the two consistently yields the best results.
HDR
HDR or High Dynamic Range photos are a key part of my workflow. By combining 3 images of varying brightness levels, the merged photo has quite a bit more detail to work with. I can increase the brightness in dark areas without making the photo grainy and decrease the brightness without losing all the detail. Once merged, I do a basic edit of the image to make sure it highlights what I need it to.
Dark Natural Light Image
Natural Light Image
Bright Natural Light Image
However, HDR images come with a few disadvantages. First, the colors will not be completely accurate. This is due to just using the natural light of the room to illuminate all areas. You’ll see that the small side table is bluer than it should be, and the yellow color of the lightbulb is causing the top of steps to appear too warm. Second, even though HDR image has all the shadow and highlight data there, it can be difficult to effectively pull this data out of certain objects. The chair in this photo shows this well. Most of it is quite faded and fuzzy, not showing off the detail in the contours.
Merged HDR Photo
HDR Flaws
Flash
Flash photography is the most useful tool in my on-site toolbelt. When using flash I take multiple images like HDR, but I reposition it around the room during shooting to light up key areas. Because the flash is the same color every time, I can count on it to produce accurate colors on objects and the room overall. I also am able to shape the light around the room to make sure I capture the contours of objects in a more appealing way than HDR.
Flash Shot 1
Flash Shot 2
Flash Shot 3
Merged Flash Photo
Just like HDR images, flash comes with a few disadvantages. Because it is a direct light, it can cause harsh shadows on objects. A common issue with images that only use flash is shadows forming around the ceiling fan and any objects directly in the light path. You can see where I have highlighted this in the flash image, and this was an angle that was optimal for flash use. Another common issue with flash is that it eliminates any of the environmental lights that are in the room. Most of the time it is in lamps and bulbs, but it can also take away highlights coming through windows.
Flash Flaws
Why I use Both
Over the years, I have found that the optimal technique to truly capture a space is a mix of the two. You might have noticed that the benefits of flash cancel out the negatives of HDR, and the inverse is also true. When used to compliment the flash shot, HDR can make the space feel much more natural and inviting.
Final Image with Differences Shown
Hopefully this explainer has shown why the best way to capture a home is not HDR or flash, but a mixture of both. You can rest easy knowing you are getting the best of both worlds, and consistently being delivered stunning images.
Final Image Delivered