HDR image compression using optimized tone mapping model

In this paper, we propose a coding algorithm for high dynamic range images (HDRI). Our encoder applies a tone mapping model based on scaled mu-Law encoding, followed by a conventional low dynamic range image (LDRI) encoder. The tone mapping model is designed to minimize the difference between the tone mapped HDRI and its LDR version. By virtue of the nature of the model, not only the quality of the HDRI but also the one of LDRI are improved, compared with a state of the art in conventional HDRI compression. Furthermore the error caused by our tone mapping model encoding is theoretically analyzed.