HDRcan

HDRcan is a software tool designed for processing High Dynamic Range (HDR) images. It allows users to convert standard High Dynamic Range image files into a format that can be displayed on conventional monitors. HDR images capture a wider range of brightness and color information than standard images, but without specialized displays, this extra detail cannot be fully appreciated. HDRcan addresses this by performing tone mapping, a process that compresses the extreme luminance values of an HDR image into a range that a standard display can render.

The software typically accepts various HDR file formats, such as OpenEXR, Radiance HDR (.hdr), and TIFF. Through its tone mapping algorithms, HDRcan aims to preserve as much detail as possible in both the brightest highlights and the darkest shadows of the original HDR data. Users can often adjust parameters within the software to control the intensity and characteristics of the tone mapping, allowing for creative control over the final output. The output from HDRcan is usually a standard image format like JPEG or PNG, making it compatible with most viewing devices and software. It is a useful tool for photographers and digital artists who work with HDR photography and require the ability to share or view their work on standard displays.