Python Backend Developer for RAW HDR Image Processing API

Project Overview
I am building a web-based RAW HDR blending tool specifically for real estate photographers.
This is not a generative AI editor. The application must strictly process bracketed RAW exposures and output clean, natural HDR images suitable for MLS delivery.
I need a backend developer to build the core HDR processing API.
Frontend and billing will be handled separately.
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Core Requirements
The backend must:

• Accept 3, 5, or 7 bracketed RAW files (CR3, DNG, NEF, ARW, etc.)

• Automatically sort exposures based on metadata

• Align images (handheld support required)

• Perform exposure fusion (Mertens-style preferred)

• Apply clean tone mapping suitable for real estate photography

• Preserve window detail

• Avoid halos and over-processed HDR look

• Output optimized sRGB JPEG
This is strictly bracket blending + color grading.
No object insertion.
No generative AI.
No flambient blendi...