What is Wide Dynamic Range?

Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) is a technology commonly used in security cameras that balances the light in high-contrast images to produce a crisp, high-quality image. WDR is often applied in outdoor security cameras where there is greater unpredictability in lighting.

For instance, an outdoor dome security camera without WDR positioned toward a retail store parking lot will encounter significant lighting disparities. Sunlit areas may appear overexposed, while shaded spots around parked cars can become underexposed, making it challenging to view the footage clearly. Overexposed zones will look overly bright, and underexposed areas too dark to interpret accurately. Other high-contrast scenarios where WDR proves useful include entrances with intense backlighting from the sun or nighttime settings illuminated by artificial lights.

By balancing the light in an image, WDR ensures that important details are not lost in shadows or blown out by bright lights. This is critical for applications like facial recognition, license plate reading, and any scenario where capturing fine details is essential.