A Wavelet-Based Encoding Algorithm for High Dynamic Range Images

High Dynamic Range (HDR) images use a wider range of intensity values than the common Limited Dynamic Range (LDR) images. Because of this, handling HDR images requires a great deal of information to be stored and trans- ferred. To represent and display HDR images efficiently, a trade-off needs to be balanced between size and accuracy. We present a new wavelet-based algorithm for encoding HDR images, so that their data are feasible in the internet-based soci- ety for image communication. Experiments are conducted using the library provided by the Munsell Color Science Labo- ratory of Rochester Institute of Technology and HDR Images provided by Industrial Light and Magic (ILM, a motion pic- ture visual effects company). Experimental results show that the encoded format is able to achieve a good balance be- tween visual quality and image size for internet users.