Decoding high dynamic range (HDR) images

摘要

A method and an apparatus for decoding high dynamic range image data is disclosed which applies pre- or post-correction to compensate for lossy encoding of the high dynamic range information in a data structure which comprises a tone map having a reduced dynamic range and HDR information. The HDR image can be reconstructed from the tone map and the HDR information. The data structure can be backwards compatible with legacy hardware or software viewers. The data structure may comprise a JFIF file having the tone map encoded as a JPEG Image with the HDR information in an application extension or text comment field of the JFIF file, or a MPEG file having the tone map encoded as a MPEG image with the HDR information in a video or audio channel of the MPEG file.