HDR processing using a camera without bracketing

[Richard M Nixon]

I have a Nikon D3300 which does not have an auto-bracketing setting. I want to make some HDR images when I return home, so I'm looking for the best way to do this. As I see it, I have two options. I could either manually change EV settings and take multiple pictures on my own, or I could take just one picture and then make differing EV copies in post.

I feel like the software EV changes wouldn't be as real as changing settings as I take pictures, but I won't be using a tripod so manually taking multiple shots will be very difficult (and impossible for action scenes).

How would you handle this scenario? Any options I've missed?

 

[havoc315]

There is some photo software that claims to create an HDR image from a single raw file, using the method you described. Unfortunately, it won't match the quality of a true multi-image HDR shot since it is still limited to the dynamic range of the single shot.

You identified the main reason I wouldn't buy the D3300... I find value in auto-bracketing. I would strongly suggest a small tripod, maybe a gorilla pod, that you can just rest on a ledge. For true HDR shots, you will need multiple images, so will need to make the changes manually.

If you are simply looking for an "HDR look" --- you can do tone mapping without multiple exposures, and create that surreal look often associated with HDR. True HDR vastly increases dynamic range, and for that, you need multiple images.

 

[boBQuincy]

If you can change the shutter speed without shaking the camera too much you might get decent results. I take a lot of HDR sets without a tripod or any camera support and almost all of them come out ok.
Here is one:

 

[SkaGoat]

I have a Nikon D3300 which does not have an auto-bracketing setting. I want to make some HDR images when I return home, so I'm looking for the best way to do this. As I see it, I have two options. I could either manually change EV settings and take multiple pictures on my own, or I could take just one picture and then make differing EV copies in post.

I feel like the software EV changes wouldn't be as real as changing settings as I take pictures, but I won't be using a tripod so manually taking multiple shots will be very difficult (and impossible for action scenes).

How would you handle this scenario? Any options I've missed?

Honestly, I'd try running your RAW files through the HDR software to see the results, I was surprised how good some of them looked, and I use a camera known for poor dynamic range.

If you can change your exposure comp. without moving too much you might be ok, the software is pretty good at lining up the photos. Just experiment with it, if you don't get good results, than a tri-pod will be required.