Convert PHM to HDR

The PHM file extension stands for Portable Float-map Image (16-bit half), a format used for storing high dynamic range (HDR) images with 16-bit half-precision floating-point values. This format is particularly useful in applications requiring precise color representation and extensive dynamic range, such as computer graphics, image processing, and scientific visualization. Originating from the Portable FloatMap (PFM) format, PHM was developed to provide a more efficient storage solution by utilizing half-precision floats, thereby reducing file size while maintaining significant detail and accuracy.

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.