Methods and apparatus for graphics processing, such as producing a smooth transition between images of different dynamic ranges (e.g., Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) images and High Dynamic Range (HDR) images). An example method generally includes using a high frame rate during a transition period to allow properties of images to incrementally vary. The properties may include brightness (i.e., luminance), color gamut, tone mapping, among others. For example, during the transition period, a subset of HDR images are displayed at a second frame rate (e.g., 120 Hz) higher than a frame rate based on the HDR images (e.g., 30 Hz). Simultaneously, a brightness level (as well as other aspects) of the display panel is adjusted incrementally from an SDR brightness level to an HDR brightness level during the transition time period over the subset of the HDR images.