About KStretch

DStretch-style decorrelation enhancement for subtle visual features.

What KStretch Is

KStretch is a browser-based, DStretch-style image enhancement tool designed to reveal weak color differences that are difficult to see in raw images.

It is especially useful for faint pigments, weathered inscriptions, corrosion boundaries, surface traces, and low-contrast material transitions.

Historical Context

Decorrelation stretch originated in remote sensing workflows where correlated color channels made subtle differences hard to detect. Later, DStretch-style implementations were widely adopted in cultural heritage and archaeological imaging to help visualize faded rock art and pigment residues.

KStretch applies this same general principle in a modern web workflow, with live controls, zoom-synced comparison, and metadata export for reproducibility.

How It Works (High Level)

  1. Converts RGB image to floating-point representation.
  2. Computes channel covariance and decorrelates color channels.
  3. Applies stretch amplification in decorrelated space.
  4. Maps back to RGB and applies normalization.
  5. Applies optional clarity and spectrum-group adjustments.
  6. Generates downloadable output and metadata sidecars.

Important Interpretation Note

KStretch output is an enhancement visualization, not direct material proof. Strong settings can introduce visually persuasive artifacts. Always compare against the original image and corroborate findings with external evidence and domain expertise.