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Convert EXR to HDR - OpenEXR to Radiance Format

Transform EXR files to HDR format for lighting and rendering applications.

Step 1: Upload your files

You can also Drag and drop files.

Step 2: Choose format
Step 3: Convert files

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Why Convert EXR to HDR?

OpenEXR and Radiance HDR are both high dynamic range image formats, but they serve different ecosystems. EXR files dominate VFX and film production, while HDR (Radiance RGBE) is the standard for architectural visualization and lighting simulation software.

If your rendering software, game engine, or lighting tool requires HDR format but you have EXR source files, conversion is straightforward. Both formats preserve the full dynamic range your work requires.

How to Convert EXR to HDR

  1. Upload your EXR file - Drag and drop or click to select your OpenEXR image
  2. Confirm HDR output - The converter automatically selects Radiance HDR format
  3. Download your HDR - Get your converted file ready for your workflow

The entire process runs in your browser. No desktop software installation required.

EXR vs HDR: Technical Differences

Both formats store high dynamic range data, but they differ in compression and precision:

  • EXR (OpenEXR) - 16-bit or 32-bit floating point, supports multiple layers, developed by ILM for film production
  • HDR (Radiance RGBE) - 32-bit with 8-bit mantissa per channel, single layer, optimized for lighting calculations

In our testing, EXR files converted to HDR maintain excellent dynamic range fidelity. The Radiance format captures the exposure data needed for environment mapping and image-based lighting.

Common Use Cases

Architectural Visualization

Radiance-based tools like Falconer or AGi32 require HDR environment maps. Convert your EXR IBL probes to HDR for accurate daylight simulation.

Game Development

Some older game engines and middleware expect HDR format for skyboxes and reflection probes. Convert EXR assets from your 3D artists for direct engine import.

Lighting Analysis Software

Professional lighting calculation tools often work natively with Radiance HDR. If your HDRI source is EXR, conversion ensures compatibility without re-capturing.

Alternative Formats

Depending on your end use, other conversions might suit your needs better:

  • EXR to PNG - For web display or when HDR data isn't needed
  • EXR to TIFF - For print workflows that need high bit depth but not HDR
  • EXR to JPG - For quick previews or social sharing

Stick with EXR-to-HDR when you specifically need the Radiance format for lighting workflows.

Browser-Based Conversion

Our converter works on any modern browser:

  • Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
  • Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
  • No plugins or extensions needed

Processing happens locally in your browser. Your files stay on your device throughout the conversion.

Pro Tip

When converting EXR environment maps to HDR for architectural rendering, verify the exposure values match your scene. Some software expects HDR files calibrated to specific luminance ranges for accurate daylight simulation.

Common Mistake

Assuming EXR and HDR are interchangeable without checking software requirements. Some applications only read one format, so verify your target software's supported formats before starting a project.

Best For

Converting OpenEXR files for use in Radiance-based lighting simulation tools, older game engines that require HDR skyboxes, or architectural visualization software that doesn't support EXR natively.

Not Recommended

Don't convert to HDR if your software already supports EXR natively. EXR typically offers better precision and features. Convert only when HDR format is specifically required by your workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

EXR (OpenEXR) is a film industry format supporting 16/32-bit float precision and multiple layers. HDR (Radiance RGBE) uses 32-bit encoding optimized for lighting simulation. Both store high dynamic range data but serve different software ecosystems.

The conversion preserves dynamic range well. HDR's RGBE encoding captures sufficient precision for lighting and rendering workflows. For film-grade compositing, keep your original EXR files as the master format.

Radiance HDR is used by architectural lighting tools (AGi32, Radiance, Falconer), some game engines for environment maps, Photoshop for HDR editing, and various scientific visualization applications.

Yes, HDR to EXR conversion is possible. However, any data beyond what RGBE encoding supports won't be recovered. Always keep your original EXR files as the highest-quality source.

HDR format is single-layer only. When converting a multi-layer EXR, the converter processes the primary RGB layer. Export individual layers separately if you need each one converted.

Our browser-based converter handles typical HDRI sizes well. Very large EXR files (over 100MB) may take longer depending on your device's memory and processing power.

No. The conversion happens entirely in your browser using local processing. Your files never leave your device, making it safe for proprietary or client work.

Keep EXR for VFX compositing, film production, or when you need multiple layers and maximum precision. Use HDR when your target software specifically requires Radiance format or for lighting simulation workflows.

Yes. Upload multiple EXR files at once and convert them all to HDR format in a single batch operation. This saves time when preparing multiple environment maps.

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