Method and apparatus for encoding and decoding HDR images

A method for encoding High Dynamic Range images, comprising:

• determining a tone mapping function responsive to the High Dynamic Range images and an encoding parameter;
• determining Low Dynamic Range images from the High Dynamic Range images responsive to the tone mapping function;
• and
• encoding the determined Low Dynamic Range images by using said encoding parameter and information including said encoding parameter, said encoding parameter being intended to be used for generating an inverse tone-mapping function.

An apparatus for decoding High Dynamic Range images, comprising a processor configured to:

• decode Low Dynamic Range images from a bitstream having the High Dynamic Range images included therein;
• access information from the bitstream, the accessed information including a decoding parameter used to decode the Low Dynamic Range images;
• and
• generate an inverse tone-mapping function responsive to said decoding parameter used to decode the Low Dynamic Range images, and to generate the High Dynamic Range images by applying said inverse tone mapping curve.

An apparatus for encoding High Dynamic Range images, comprising a processor configured to:

• determine a tone mapping function responsive to the High Dynamic Range images and an encoding parameter;
• determine Low Dynamic Range images from the High Dynamic Range images responsive to the tone mapping function;
• and
• encode the determined Low Dynamic Range images by using said encoding parameter and information including said encoding parameter, said encoding parameter being intended to be used for generating an inverse tone-mapping function.