Dynamic range is a measure of how well your camera captures both shadows and highlights in a single photo. A camera with high dynamic range can show details in both bright skies and dark forests at the same time. A camera with low dynamic range might lose detail in one or both.
Why It Matters
- Helps preserve details in highlights (like clouds) and shadows (like faces in shade)
- Affects the overall contrast and look of your photo
- Determines how much editing flexibility you have later
How to Improve Dynamic Range
- Shoot in RAW to retain more information
- Use exposure compensation to avoid blown highlights
- Try HDR mode (High Dynamic Range) on your camera or phone
Tips
- Watch for clipping — where bright or dark areas lose detail entirely.
- Use the histogram to check exposure.
- Bright sunny days are the hardest for dynamic range — shade can help.