I use Essentials HDR. I showed it to someone who uses Photomatix, and he seemed ready to switch ASAP. Simple controls but faster processing and better results. I seem to notice a lack of black in my output, but I assume I could fix that in Photoshop.


A few samples:








The two above were handheld, assembled from a five-shot bracket ranging from -2 to +2.


The two below were tripod supported, assembled from a seven-shot bracket ranging from -3 to +3.