Convert PNM to HDR

The PNM (Portable Anymap) file extension, developed by Jef Poskanzer in the 1980s, stands for Portable Any Map. It is an uncompressed raster graphics format designed for portable image storage and exchange, encompassing three sub-formats: PBM (Portable Bitmap), PGM (Portable Graymap), and PPM (Portable Pixmap). PNM files store image data in plain text or binary format, ensuring easy usage across different platforms and applications. This format is widely supported by various image editing software and is valued for its simplicity and lossless compression.

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.