What is Dynamic Range? (Why Shadows Look Black)
DefinitionThe ratio between the brightest and darkest parts of an image.
1The Simple Explanation
Dynamic range is the measure of how much contrast a camera can handle. Low dynamic range cameras blow out the sky to white and crush the shadows to black.
2Technical Deep Dive
Measured in 'Stops'. The human eye has ~20 stops. The best cameras have ~14-15 stops. JPG files only hold about 8-10 stops effectively.
Common Misconceptions
Myth: Contrast is Dynamic Range. Fact: High contrast often reduces visible dynamic range by clipping ends of the spectrum.