1. A method implemented in a data processing apparatus for processing a set of multiple input images of a scene taken at various exposure values, comprising: (a) using one or more of the multiple input images, classifying the scene into one of a plurality of scene classes; (b) based on the scene class determined in step (a), selecting one of a plurality of pre-stored tone mapping operators; (c) merging the multiple input images to generate a high dynamic range (HDR) image; and (d) tone mapping the HDR image using the tone mapping operator selected in step (b) to generate a low dynamic range (LDR) image.