How To?

[calliechinen]

I am trying to figure out how to blend these two photos so the background is exposed as well as the family. I have tried a couple things but think the littlest girl has a halo and not  sure if I am doing it the best way anyway.  Not even sure if this is the  way or if I should have used a reflector to get more light on the family, etc. 

[Damien Symonds]

Generally blending like this should be avoided if possible, and I think it's possible here.  Could you send me the raw file?  https://spaces.hightail.com/uplink/BellePhotography

[calliechinen]

Sent!  So - how do you do it if not in post processing?  Fill flash?  Reflector, etc?  Which makes sense!  I have just never tried.

[Damien Symonds]

Sorry about the delay.

3 hours ago, calliechinen said:

So - how do you do it if not in post processing?

Sorry, I didn't mean to suggest for a microsecond that post-processing isn't involved.  Of course it is.  I meant, the dual-exposure (twice raw processing) isn't necessary.  Just one good raw edit, then your Levels work.

It's been a LONG time since you took the Raw Class, and a heck of a lot has changed in that time.  As a previous member you don't need to pay full price again, only the refresher price.  I urge you to consider it.

This is with a single raw edit, then Levels:

3 hours ago, calliechinen said:

Fill flash?  Reflector, etc?

Yes, of course you should have used one of those.  Some lighting would have helped your cause a LOT.