I'm still wrapping my brain around HDR - are you using a seperate
program or the one inside CS4?

I understand the concept - I just can't seem to make it work right
for some reason.


I use a separate program. I don't know if CS4 has improved on CS3 as far as
it's built-in HDR feature, but if it hasn't I can understand your
frustration. I am completely unimpressed by Photoshop's automated HDR
function. If you're willing to do it manually by using layers and masks,
then good results can be obtained, but it's a lot of work and very time
consuming.

I use Photomatix Pro. It's available as a free trial via a very small
download by today's standards (about 3mb)www.hdrsoft.com. The trial is
fully functional without a time limit, but it will put a watermark on the
final output image until you buy the license key for $99.

I import bracketed raw images directly into Photomatix for processing,
although tif files work too, and I think maybe even jpgs. I'll tell you
what, if you want to email me a set of bracketed raw files that you've been
working with, I'll process them for you and send you an HDR jpg back for
review. You may need to send the raw files in separate emails, depending on
size. Cox doesn't allow attachments larger than about 6mb per email. If
you want to do this, send a set of files that cover a wide dynamic range.
Email me if you want to discuss further.