What is HIF? Understanding Canon's Format vs HEIF and HEIC

HIF is Canon's implementation of HEIF called HEIX (HEIF eXtended). Canon cameras like EOS R5, R6, and 1DX Mark III produce HIF files with .hif extension.


The format supports 10-bit color depth and advanced chroma subsampling ratios including 4:2:2 and 4:4:4. It excels with HDR content while maintaining smaller file sizes than traditional RAW formats.

Understanding the Format Relationship

HEIF is the universal standard developed by MPEG in 2015. It's the foundation that both HIF and HEIC build upon.

HEIF supports multiple compression codecs and flexible implementation across manufacturers.

HEIC is Apple's consumer version introduced in iOS 11 in 2017. It uses only HEVC codec and appears exclusively on Apple devices.

Files are 50% smaller than JPEG with 16-bit color support.

HIF is Canon's professional variant emphasizing extended color capabilities beyond consumer formats.

It targets serious photographers needing superior color grading flexibility.

How to Open HIF Files

Windows: Download Raw Image Extension. Also Install HEIF Image Extensions and HEVC Video Extensions.

HIF files then open in Windows Photos app automatically.

Mac: Built-in support on macOS High Sierra and later.

Apple Preview opens HIF files automatically with no additional software needed.

Best Software for HIF Files

1. Canon Digital Photo Professional 4: Free for Canon owners. Full HIF editing with professional color tools. Requires camera serial number for download.
2. Raw Image Extension: Microsoft's official Windows solution. Supports Canon formats including HIF. Integrates with File Explorer seamlessly.
3. XnView MP: Free cross-platform viewer. Native HIF support with batch processing capabilities.

Converting HIF to JPEG

• Canon DPP4: Open HIF file, select File → Export, choose JPEG format, set quality and save.
• Mac Preview: Open file, select File → Export, choose JPEG, adjust quality slider and save.
• Windows Photos: Open HIF after installing extensions, click menu, select "Save as" choose JPEG.

Format Comparison

• HIF: Professional 10-bit color depth. Advanced chroma subsampling. Superior HDR capabilities. Requires Canon or specialized software. File sizes 1-12MB typically.
• HEIC: Consumer 16-bit color. Apple ecosystem only. 50% smaller than JPEG. Mobile-optimized storage.
• HEIF: Universal standard. Multiple codec support. Cross-platform flexibility.
• JPEG: Universal compatibility. 8-bit color only. Works everywhere without special software.

When to Use HIF

Use HIF for professional Canon photography requiring HDR capabilities and advanced color grading.

Ideal when working with extended color spaces and professional output quality is mandatory.

Convert to JPEG when maximum compatibility or client delivery requires standard formats.

HIF represents Canon's professional imaging standard with 10-bit color and advanced HDR support.

Download Raw Image Extension for Windows or use Canon DPP4 for full capabilities. Convert to JPEG only when compatibility requires it.