3 steps to open file with HDR extension
Usually solving problems with HDR file is simple – just install proper software and open the file. Read the guide and open HDR file now!
HDR File Extension
- File type High Dynamic Range Image Format
- File developer HDRsoft
- File category Raster Image Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) HDR file?
The HDR (High Dynamic Range Image Format) format is an image file format used for the storage of high-quality digital images. It can store and process high-dynamic range data with a wide range of luminosity values. It is mainly used in photography where images have more dynamic range than traditional image formats. It allows for a greater range of light and color tones to be captured.
The HDR file format provides improved accuracy in representing colors, and increases the available bit-depth of the image, allowing for an improved range of color sets. This makes it far superior to other image formats for high dynamic range image processing. Generally, the file name extension for this type of file is .hdr, but it can also be stored in the .exr format.
How to open HDR file?
There could be multiple reasons for which the system does not support given file. In the case of HDR extension, it is probable that none of the installed programs support given file type. Therefore, user should undertake the following steps
Step 1: Install a program that supports HDR files
If an application that supports HDR files is installed on user’s system, but is not used to open such files by default, right-click on the file icon and choose "Open with" option from the menu. Next, select the proper application and check the "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" box. The system will store this information in its registry and use the selected program to open files with HDR extension by default.
Hint for Mac OS users
For Mac OS users the procedure is analogous – open the file menu by right-clicking on the HDR file and choose "Information" option and select "Open with program" option. From the submenu select an application and click on "Change all" button.
Step 2: Find and download proper software
Inability to open HDR files may also be related to the lack of any application that supports given file being installed on the system. Should that be the case, user needs to download and install one of the following applications. Once installed, the system will automatically associate newly installed application with HDR files. If this step fails, see step 1.
Programs that support files with HDR extension
Step 3: Check the HDR file for errors
Sometimes, although relatively rarely, steps 1 and 2 might not lead to expected results. There can be several reasons for such situation to occur:
- HDR file has been downloaded from the internet but for some reason it is incomplete. In such case the file should be re-downloaded and opened again.
- Structure of given HDR file could be corrupted and as such the program is not able to open the file
- Storage medium on which the file was stored is damaged
- It is important to ascertain that the icon representing given file is not a shortcut a related HDR file no longer present in the location to which the shortcut points
- If the user account has restricted access privileges it is advised to contact the system administrator or an IT expert
