Flambient vs. HDR Photography

HDR images are a low cost option for interior photography that produces good results, but when nothing but the best will do I turn to the “flambient” composite method for the best color rendering.

The ambient light in most interiors are a mix of different colored light from different sources (e.g. blue and green from outside; yellow and orange from inside). Light is bouncing around all over picking up colors from the painted walls, floors, objects, etc.

To get better colors and reduce color cast I have to add artificial light strong enough to overcome the other sources. I do this using multiple off camera lights, taking a series of exposures with and without lighting, and then I blend them all together in photoshop.

Check out the comparison below and I think you’ll agree the flambient technique produces amazing results.

HDR Image

“Flambient” Image

Shot notes: comparison photos were both taken using a Sony A7iii with G Master 16-35 lens. The HDR image would typically get further editing to reduce color cast (desaturating with paint brush in photoshop), but this better illustrates the problem.