Convert CUT to HDR

The CUT file extension stands for Dr. Halo Bitmap Image. Originally developed by Media Cybernetics for the Dr. Halo software, it is a device-independent bitmap image format that supports 8 bits per pixel, allowing for a total of 256 colors. CUT files are used for storing small bitmap images and require a separate PAL file to define colors. Without this palette file, the images display as grayscale. Over time, support for CUT files has expanded to various other applications.

HDR stands for High Dynamic Range, and in the context of Radiance, it refers to a file format used for storing high-quality images. The Radiance HDR format was developed as part of the Radiance rendering system, which originated in the late 1980s at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Its primary use is in the field of computer graphics, where it captures a wider range of luminance levels compared to standard formats, enabling more realistic lighting effects. This format is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring precise light measurements and accurate visualizations, making it indispensable for professionals in fields such as architectural visualization and visual effects.