Multi-Camera Final Refinements in Affinity Photo: NGC 6744 Processing
Combining Luminance and RGB for LRGB Processing:
- Convert the luminance image to a 16-bit RGB file and merge it with the RGB image for enhanced detail.
- Flatten the image and export it as a high-quality TIFF file.
Gradient Removal and Star Integration:
- Extract stars using PixInsight’s Star Exterminator and process them separately.
- Use Graxpert AI for automatic background gradient removal before reintroducing stars.
Final Color and Detail Enhancements:
- Apply Tone Mapping for subtle contrast boosts in the galaxy without affecting the background.
- Use Selective Color and Clarity tools to refine spiral arm structures and highlight Hα regions.
This final stage brings out the full depth and color of NGC 6744, wrapping up a comprehensive multi-software workflow.
Multi-Camera Final Refinements in Affinity Photo NGC 6744 Processing
Comments
Another inspirational set of videos Nik. Despite having a similar set of astrophotography applications available to me, the gulf that exists between your results and my somewhat inferior ones, I believe comes down to your ability to assess what adjustments are needed and how best to subtly apply them without going overboard. For many these tutorial videos really offer an opportunity to improve their results.
Now a shameless plug. Nik has had the second version of his publication 'Shooting Stars' out for a few years now, and every month writes an 'Imaging Masterclass' section in a monthly Astronomy magazine. Often these may use data available in the Telescope live archive. Currently he is giving advice on Imaging dark nebulae, with part 2 of that series now available. Access to Nik's book is also available in the magazine.
Disclaimer, I have no affiliations whatsoever with the magazine publisher.
CS, Ray