SCREEN Vs. PRINT COLORS: How to Edit Your Print Photo To Look The Way You Want

Since you’re not able to see the photo on your computer monitor as it prints, figuring out how to edit your photos so they come out the way you want can be tough. There are just so many variables at play: printer settings, paper type, type of ink. Combine this with an onslaught of confusing technical jargon and it’s no wonder that people often don’t know where to start.

A headache for printing companies, the intricacies of color science can confuse even the best photographers. But fret not, this article breaks down the key points to remember about color management and print settings so your photos look the way you want.

1. Make sure the print color is true – This makes a big difference in how prints look, especially when they are enlarged or reduced in size. Calibrating your printer should take care of this problem. You can also try outputting to CMYK if you want more control over printed colors.
2. Set white balance on your camera – Use a gray card so you can see how the colors change as you select different lighting conditions. It’s really important that you start with a neutral color so white balance is similar to the color of the paper. This way, the color that is represented on your print will line up with the photo.
3. Adjust output exposure – If your print looks too dark or too light, adjust the exposure. Make sure the output is in the middle gray. This also helps direct the color of your photo by setting the paper’s shade to be similar to the one you are printing on.
4. Lock exposure and resolution – If you have difficulty seeing details in your photo, adjust the resolution and exposure settings so they are as close to what you want. This may not be what you want, but it will help you to edit the colors.
5. Set print resolution – You can always increase resolution later, but if you want to start with a good image, change this setting to a little more than 300 PPI. This setting makes small details stand out, and colors look more vivid.
6. Look at how your shades are printed – Before editing any photos, ensure they are facing the same direction in your printer settings as in your digital file. For example, you can print the file by lightening or darkening it so the photo looks natural.
7. Use curves to refine your images – To make your photos stand out, use a digital red and cyan color balance to eliminate any inconsistencies and ensure that your picture is as close to what you want as possible without going overboard.

Color science is an intricate subject, but once you understand the basic principles, it can help you edit your photos for a professional and accurate look. By following this flowchart, you can better understand what is going on and how to correct your photo.