Why Do Colors Look Different on Screens vs Print?
Color is one of those tricky things that can look different depending on so many factors. Something blue on my screen, might look more purple on yours due to the quality of your device, resolution, and individual settings. It gets even more complex when you're comparing the colors on a digital screen, which uses a 3-color process (RGB), to printed colors, which uses a 4-color process (CMYK). Not to mention the differences you may see depending on your printer brand, the quality, ink levels, etc. So, if you've ever wondered why the engaging colors on your screen lose their luster on paper, you're not alone. Let's demystify the reasons behind the color discrepancy between digital screens and print.
RGB vs. CMYK
To understand the divide, let’s meet our color processes: RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is your digital screen's best friend. These are the primary colors of light, mixed together to create an array of colors, kind of like how a painter blends colors on a canvas.
On the other side is CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, blacK). These are the primary colors used in the world of printing. Unlike screens that emit light, printers use ink or toner to layer these four colors and create different shades. So, it makes sense that the two totally different processes can have very different outcomes!
Pantone
The Pantone Matching System (PMS) creates a common language for everyone worldwide. They've developed a system that assigns unique codes to each color that everyone uses the same way. For example, when you say "PMS 185," it's understood as a specific shade of red.
But here's the kicker: Pantone colors don't always align perfectly with what you see on your screen either. Especially when you think about the light coming from your screens.
The Backlit Screen Factor
You know how your screen always to glows, even in a dark room? That’s thanks to backlighting. Screens emit light, enhancing colors and making them appear more vibrant. In contrast, print materials don't have that advantage. They rely solely on reflected light, and that can make printed colors appear a bit duller.
Why It Matters
Understanding the digital-print color differences matters for a few good reasons. If you're a business owner or designer, your brand's identity hinges on consistent colors. Ensuring they look the same across digital and print materials is crucial for a professional image. And as a designer, knowing the color intricacies is vital for projects like brochures, business cards, banners, or anything meant for print to make sure the final outcome is exactly how you expected.
It all boils down to light involvement and speaking the right color language, whether it's RGB or CMYK or Pantone. So, next time your print doesn't quite match your screen, don't fret. It's all part of the colorful journey. A little knowledge goes a long way in making informed choices and maintaining that visual consistency (that, and always, always, always seeing a hard copy proof before committing to printing thousands!).
