Looking for some help . . .

[Mpow]

Not sure where to post this, so I'll start here.
I went out tonight and took a series of shots to play with "Photomerge Exposure" on my new PSE 8. I'm really happy with the quick photo merge results (still needs further editing), but my original images have some "ghosting" on them, and I can't figure out why. If you look at the roof, there is an upside down "green ghost" of the white lights. I've seen this on several other of my photos that involve light as well, but this is the most pronounced.
I'm using a Nikon D60, these images use the 18-55mm kit lens with a UV filter.

Any suggestions that anyone can give me to eliminate this problem would be greatly appreciated!

[skyline photo]

does this happen only with merges or all the time.

[Mpow]

Originally Posted by skyline photo

does this happen only with merges or all the time.

Other times, too. This is on the originals used for this merge as well. Seems to be only noticeable on long exposures when trying to capture light. I noticed it with pics of my lit jack-o-lanterns and also when attempting shaped bokeh.

[sparda79]

Hi Mary Ann...

Nice shot you got here...

I think you might be facing the same problem I faced once. You can see my shot here:-
Reflection

Anyway, I found out that the problem was with the UV filter. They were causing the anomalies. Since then, I always take off the UV for night long exposures. A camera shop owner told me that the UV filter I was using was of low quality and I would not be facing the problem with an good one. However, I have not replaced/tried one yet.

Have a try without the UV and tell us your results.

Happy New Year.

Sparda
http://digital-photography-school.co...-part-1-a.html

[Mpow]

Thanks, Sparda. I was actually wondering that myself.
Maybe I'll try to brave the cold again this evening without the filter, see what happens.

[dhparsons]

I have seen that sometimes light is reflected off the front lens element and back onto the filter. Then the sensor sees the image and then a mirror of rellected light from the filter.

Seems that it is more prevalent in low light conditions as the front lens is dark and becomes more of a mirror removing the filter prevents this

The ghosting is affected by the lens and filter coatings and very high quality glass and filters should produce minimal ghosting. Light transmission of filters/and coatings are primary reasons for a big cost difference in filters.

[Ella1267]

This is a really pretty photo. It would make for a stunning winter wedding...nice job.

[leonaashlee]

Lol...I have no idea what you all are talking about, but I like your shot Mary Anne.