I have an irrational hatred towards HDR generators and plug ins like Photomatix etc...but the bonus of programs like this that you can make the most BORING photo in the world look pretty cool. I'm not sure basing your whole portfolio around HDR photos when the photo it self isn't that good.

I use technique that is based pretty much on the same premise as HDR, lightening up the dark areas, and darkening the light. It is pretty subtle and doesn't give you that HDR ghosting.

Hope this helps :)

Step 1:

Open up the image and first make a duplicate layer (Ctrl + J)

Step 2:

Invert the top layer (Crtl + I) and then desaturate (Ctrl + Alt + U) it to a black and white layer.

Step 3:

Run a gaussian filter at about 30.00 pixles on this layer.

Step 4:

Reduce the opacity of this layer to between 30% - 50% - you can tweek at the end to your liking as well

Step 5:

Change the blending of this layer to 'Soft Light'

That's pretty much it!!!

How simple is that! To make it easier, what I have done is to record an action for this Faux HDR editing.