What is an Radiance HDR file?
Radiance HDR (.hdr) is a high dynamic range format that stores the real brightness of a scene, far beyond what a normal photo can hold. It's used for HDRI environment maps that light 3D scenes, and in visual effects.
HDR files look flat or blown out in ordinary viewers because screens can't show that range directly - they need tone mapping, which converting to JPG or PNG applies.
How to open an Radiance HDR file
Photoshop, GIMP, Blender, Affinity Photo and most 3D software open .hdr files. Mac Preview shows a basic preview. Convert to JPG or PNG to get a viewable, shareable image.
- Extensions
- .hdr, .pic
- Range
- High dynamic range (32-bit float)
- Best for
- HDRI lighting, visual effects
- Also called
- RGBE