Question
With options like Nik’s Color Efex Pro 4 allowing me to digitally apply a Graduated Neutral Density filter, why would I choose to use a piece of equipment that I have to buy and carry around?
Related Questions:
How do I use Graduated Neutral Density filters?
What are neutral density filters and how do I use them to create long exposures in daylight?
What types of filter cannot be emulated by post-processing? -This points out that exposure time or aperture can be altered and not reproduced with software.
Answer
There are two ways to simulate a Graduated ND filter by software and they both have different disadvantages and advantages, compared to an physical filter:
H/W Filter
- Pro: A H/W filer gives you results immediately which you can see while you compose.
- Con: On the other hand, the effect is fixed in gradation and shape.
Software Effect
- Pro: Adjustable in strength, size, shape and direction.
- Con: Cannot recover clipped details. Blown out areas wont get details with a software effect while the H/W filter would have prevented over-exposure.
Exposure Fusion / HDR
- Pro: Completely adjustable. Can simulate any strength, shape and size of ND filter.
- Con: Anything that moves between exposures can cause problems.
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