In May 2009 we shot HDR photos in Fort Point using the Zeiss 21mm/2.8 Distagon ZF. All shots were done with 5 bracketed shots at 1EV spacing. It turned out that 21mm was quite ideal to get the photos we wanted. At this focal length manual focus is no big deal at all. We actually shot nearly all photos at the same lens settings (distance and f/8).

Processing Workflow

• Merge to HDR from Lightroom into Photomatix 3.2 (Photomatix LR plugin)
• Tonemapping in Photomatix 3.2
• Open into Photoshop
• Improve contrast with DOP Contrast Plus
• Detail enhancement using EasyDS Detail Sharpness Resolver (at stronger settings)

More photos at our gallery at Smugmug

Conclusion

For shooting in such places HDR is a must. We think that 21mm is an excellent focal length for places like Fort Point. The Zeiss 21mm is now an integral part of our top photo kit (we also have a Nikon to Canon adapter for the 21mm).