SDRHDR

SDRHDR is a term used in video processing to describe methods and workflows aimed at rendering standard dynamic range content on displays capable of high dynamic range, or enhancing SDR material with HDR-like characteristics. It is not an official standard; rather, SDRHDR is used informally by researchers, manufacturers, and content creators to describe a family of techniques that bridge SDR and HDR.

Common approaches include dynamic tone mapping that expands luminance, contrast, and local detail, upscaling color primaries to wider gamuts, and applying perceptual enhancements such as local contrast boosts and edge sharpening. Some implementations rely on metadata or signal processing pipelines that adapt rendering parameters on a scene-by-scene or frame-by-frame basis to preserve intent while improving perceived brightness.

In practice, SDRHDR workflows may be integrated into televisions, streaming devices, or video processing software. They often require calibration to balance brightness, gamma, and color to avoid artifacts like clipping or halo effects, and to maintain consistency across content with different mastering standards.

The lack of formal standardization means results vary across devices and content. Critics argue that SDRHDR can obscure creator intent and produce inconsistent viewer experiences, while supporters cite the ability to improve viewing on HDR-capable displays without re-mastering content.

Related topics include standard dynamic range, high dynamic range, tone mapping, and color management. Notable HDR formats such as HDR10 and Dolby Vision define official metadata and mastering practices, but SDRHDR remains a descriptive umbrella rather than a formal protocol.