HDR – Getting better?

Still using Photomatix & Photoshop and got a chance to do a sunrise photo.

This photo is what the camera (Sony DSC-H3) does in auto mode.  Notice it uses a high ISO and has a grainy look.

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First source photo.

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Second source image.

 dsc00747-800x600.jpg

Output of Photomatix – Highlights & Shadows – Auto setting.

highlights-shadows-auto-4047-800x600.jpg

The final picture modified in Photoshop to adjust color balance.  This step made it look more like what I thought I saw, however this step is highly dependant on personal preference.  Like more blue, red, or yellow?  Up to you…

highlights-shadows-auto-4047-photoshopcoloradj-800x600.jpg

Adjusted brightness.

highlights-shadows-auto-4047-photoshopcoloradj-800x600-bright.jpg