raster format

What is a .EXR file?

EXR is a high-dynamic-range format from Industrial Light & Magic, storing extreme color depth for VFX and 3D rendering.

Full name
OpenEXR
Developed by
ILM
Released
2003
Extension
.exr
MIME type
image/x-exr
Transparency
Yes

How to open a EXR file

EXR opens in Nuke, Blender, Photoshop and other VFX tools.

What EXR files are used for

Photos & web images

Share, post and embed pictures across sites and apps.

Editing & design

Work with the format in editors like Photoshop and GIMP.

Storage & archiving

Keep memories and assets in a widely-readable form.

Strengths & limitations

✔ Strengths✖ Limitations
Supports transparencyLess common outside its niche

Tools for this format

Convert, compress and edit — free, in your browser.

Need more than a conversion?

Remove the background from EXR images, upscale to 4K, or generate new visuals with SharkFoto AI.

Frequently asked questions

EXR is a high-dynamic-range format from Industrial Light & Magic, storing extreme color depth for VFX and 3D rendering.

EXR opens in Nuke, Blender, Photoshop and other VFX tools.

EXR is optimised for its specific use rather than strictly lossless storage.

Use SharkFoto's free tools — upload your EXR file and convert it to a more convenient format in seconds. It's free, processed securely and never stored.

Yes — EXR supports transparent backgrounds.