Jeff's AppsStart with a clean source
Use the largest version available, preferably with crisp edges and a transparent or evenly colored background. Compression artifacts become much easier to see once the brightest pixels are pushed beyond ordinary white.
Decide what deserves the lift
White lettering, a small star, or a polished edge can carry the effect. Do not boost every pale pixel automatically. Antialiased edges need a gentler transition than the solid center of a letter, or the type will look soft.
- Set the threshold high enough to isolate the intended white elements.
- Raise the peak until the logo separates from nearby interface white.
- Reduce softness if the edge begins to bloom outward.
- Check the logo at its actual display size, not only while zoomed in.
- Inspect the SDR fallback before export.
A useful test: squint at the screen. The mark should feel brighter, but its silhouette should remain just as easy to read.
Dark backgrounds give HDR somewhere to go
A deep neutral or saturated background increases perceived contrast without forcing the logo to carry the entire visual effect. Pure black can be dramatic, but a slightly lifted background often preserves more texture and keeps the design from feeling empty.
Export for the destination
A logo in Photos is not the same as a logo inside a browser, email signature, or social post. Test the delivered asset in context. If the destination removes HDR information, provide a carefully tuned SDR version rather than letting an automated conversion decide how the logo should look.