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HDR Bracket Merging

HDR bracket merging combines multiple exposures into a single image with superior dynamic range.

What is HDR Bracket Merging?​

Real estate interiors often have extreme contrast between bright windows and darker indoor areas. A single exposure can't capture both well. Bracket merging solves this by:

  1. Capturing multiple exposures of the same scene (brackets)
  2. Using AI to merge them into one perfectly balanced image
  3. Preserving detail in both highlights (windows) and shadows (interior)

Bracket Modes​

REMO FAST offers three bracket modes:

Single Mode​

Standard single-image enhancement. No bracket merging - each image is processed individually.

Use when:

  • You have single exposures
  • Lighting conditions were manageable
  • You don't need HDR processing

Automatic Mode​

AI automatically detects and groups bracket sets based on:

  • EXIF timestamp data
  • File naming patterns
  • Visual similarity analysis
  • Exposure value differences

Use when:

  • Your camera embeds EXIF data
  • Files are named sequentially
  • You want the system to figure out groupings

Fixed Mode​

You specify the exact number of exposures per bracket set (3, 5, or 7). The system groups every N images together in upload order.

Use when:

  • You know exactly how many exposures per scene
  • Files may not have reliable EXIF data
  • You want manual control over groupings

Supported Bracket Counts​

CountDescriptionUse Case
3 bracketsStandard HDRMost common, good balance
5 bracketsEnhanced HDRHigher dynamic range
7 bracketsMaximum HDRExtreme contrast scenes

Uploading Bracket Sets​

Preparing Your Files​

For best results:

  1. Use consistent naming - Name files sequentially (IMG_001, IMG_002, IMG_003)
  2. Group by scene - Keep all exposures for one scene together
  3. Maintain order - Upload in the correct exposure sequence

Upload Process​

  1. Select HDR Pro as your enhancement model
  2. Choose your bracket mode (Automatic or Fixed)
  3. If Fixed, select your bracket count (3, 5, or 7)
  4. Upload all your images
  5. Review the grouping preview

Grouping Preview​

Before processing, you'll see a preview of how your images will be grouped:

  • Each group shows thumbnail previews
  • Groups are color-coded for easy identification
  • The expected output count is displayed

You can:

  • Drag images between groups
  • Create new groups
  • Remove images from groups
  • Reorder images within groups

Tips for Best Results​

During the Shoot​

  1. Use a tripod - Essential for sharp bracket merging
  2. Use bracketing mode - Most cameras have auto-bracketing
  3. Avoid moving subjects - People, pets, or moving objects cause ghosting
  4. Consistent composition - Don't move the camera between exposures

Exposure Settings​

Bracket CountRecommended Stops
3 brackets-2, 0, +2 EV
5 brackets-2, -1, 0, +1, +2 EV
7 brackets-3, -2, -1, 0, +1, +2, +3 EV

File Preparation​

  1. Check EXIF data - Ensure your camera records timestamps
  2. Sequential naming - Rename files if they're out of order
  3. Test with a small batch - Verify grouping before uploading hundreds

Processing and Output​

What Happens During Processing​

  1. Alignment - Images are aligned to correct for minor movement
  2. Ghost removal - Moving objects are detected and handled
  3. Tone mapping - Exposures are blended with natural tone mapping
  4. Enhancement - Standard color correction and optimization applied

Output​

  • One output per bracket group - 3 input images = 1 output image
  • Full resolution - Same resolution as your source files
  • Standard format - JPEG output with quality optimization

Troubleshooting​

Images Aren't Grouping Correctly​

Automatic mode issues:

  • Check that EXIF timestamps are present
  • Ensure files are named sequentially
  • Try Fixed mode instead

Fixed mode issues:

  • Verify your bracket count matches your camera settings
  • Check that images are in the correct order

Ghosting in Output​

Ghosting appears as blurry or doubled objects. This usually means:

  • Something moved between exposures
  • The camera moved (no tripod)
  • Significant time passed between shots

Solution: Reshoot with a tripod and faster bracketing speed.

Misaligned Output​

If the output looks blurry or misaligned:

  • Camera movement occurred during bracketing
  • Use a sturdy tripod
  • Use a remote shutter or timer
  • Avoid windy conditions

Colors Look Unnatural​

HDR processing can sometimes produce over-processed results. REMO FAST uses natural tone mapping, but if results look off:

  • Try the Classic model instead
  • Check that input images have correct white balance
  • Ensure consistent camera settings across brackets