Exposure Technique and Image Processing

A modified Zone System is used for exposing digital images. A spot meter within the camera enables accurate quantification of reflected light in the scene from the dark to the light regions. Accordingly, if the scene contrast falls between zones II/III and VII/VIII (or III/IV and VI/VII, if color saturation is of primary concern), then one image may be adequate to capture details of significance in both the shadows and light areas. However, if the scene contrast exceeds this range, then two or more images may be needed each with a different exposure to capture significant details in both the shadows and light areas. Alternatively, the AE Bracket (BKT) option can be used on the Fujifilm GFX50S camera. These RAW images are subsequently merged into one HDR image using Lightroom Classic.

Sharp focus is often desired for the nearest and farthest objects in a scene. However, despite using lenses of short focal length and narrow aperture, the depth of field is often exceeded. In this situation, two or more images may be taken, each with a different focus, e.g., foreground and background objects of significance. Alternatively, the Focus BKT option can be used on the Fujifilm GFX50S camera. These RAW images are then merged using Helicon Focus before importing the merged DNG file into Lightroom Classic, thus yielding sharp focus of all objects within the scene regardless of the distance from the camera sensor.

In some instances, multiple images of a scene are needed for controlling both contrast and focus. In this case, optimal focus is first achieved by merging the different RAW images for each exposure in Helicon Focus. The merged images are then imported into Lightroom Classic as DNG files, where the different exposures are subsequently merged into one HDR image. 

Of course, if there is too much change in light or movement between multiple images often needed to ensure adequate detail in both shadow and light regions and/or sharp focus of all objects regardless of the distance from the camera sensor, then this can be problematic. In this case, some compromises are needed. In the future, the Cambo-Actus GFX View Camera Body can be utilized to at least address the concern related to focus.

Archival Printing

Archival pigment prints are made from the digital TIFF image files on Fine Art Papers such as Canson Infinity Platine Fibre Rag.