Create HDR effect with Gimp - how it works

You don't have to be a professional to create a striking HDR effect with Gimp. In this practical tip, we show you how to create the high contrast.

Creating an HDR effect in Gimp - Instructions

Portrait photos in particular get a lot more expression thanks to the HDR (High Dynamic Range) effect. Here's how to do it:

• Open the image in Gimp and duplicate the layer.
• Navigate to "Filters"> "Enhance"> "Unsharp Mask" in the menu. You set the radius at 45.0, the quantity at 1.50 and the threshold value at 0.
• Change the layer mode from "Normal" to "Overlay" in the layer window. Then duplicate this layer.

• In the new, top level you now have to add a mask. To do this, right-click on the layer and select "Add layer mask" in the context menu. In the dialog box, mark "black" as the color.
• Next you need the brush tool. Choose the soft selection and set the size to 10 px and the opacity to 50 percent. The foreground color should be white. Make sure that you are still on the top level with the mask.

• Now use the brush to trace all the light areas of the picture. To emphasize wrinkles, use the light brush directly next to the dark area without painting over dark areas.
• Switch to the layer below, duplicate it and drag the new layer all the way up. It should now be the top level. Select the level so that you can work on it.

• Click on "Filters" in the menu, go to "Find Edges" and then select "Neon". Set 6.0 as the radius and 0 as the quantity.
• In the layer window, change the layer mode to "Screen" and reduce the opacity to 50%.
• You have successfully implemented the HDR effect. Finally save your picture.

You can read the complete instructions for the Gimp video in the article "Removing red eyes with Gimp".