LMC54's Dynamic Range Pro (for Photoshop 6 and later) by Larry Carter

How to Purchase Requirements Works On Photoshop 6, 7, CS, or later Websized and High-resolution Images PC or Mac

This action will widen the dynamic range in digital camera images.

Using the Action

This action requires that you learn to use your levels tool to get optimal results.

 

Quick Summary: The slider in the middle is the midrange slider (the triangle below the graph) This adjusts the total tonality of the photo. To adjust contrast move either the white- point slider (the one on the right) or the black-point slider (the one on the left) under the graph. You'll also notice a grayscale bar on the bottom. This is to define the black-point (on the left) and the white-point (on the right). These will be important tools to properly set your photograph's dynamic range.

1. The first pause in the action is to set the levels in the dark range of the photo: A good tip here is to define the black point. A good starting point is to set your black-point (grayscale bar) to read 20 in the left Output Levels dialog box. Now adjust the contrast and tones with the midrange slider (the one in the center below the graph) to adjust the details in the dark part of the photo. Now touch up the contrast in the dark area with the black-point slider (the slider on the left under the graph) and (or) white-point slider (the slider on the right under the graph). This just takes a little practice to get the right feel. Always adjust to your tastes.
2. The next pause is to control the dynamic range in the bright to midrange area. Use the same technique describe in #1.

You will find this action able to bring life into your shots.

Sample Output

Before LMC54's Dynamic Range Pro:

After LMC54's Dynamic Range Pro: