What are the most accurate methods for measuring color gamut in print production?

1 Why measure color gamut?

Measuring color gamut is essential for print production, as it allows you to compare and evaluate the color capabilities of different devices, such as printers, scanners, monitors, and cameras. By measuring color gamut, you can determine how well a device can reproduce the colors of a given color space, such as sRGB, Adobe RGB, or CMYK. Measuring color gamut also helps you to identify and correct any color errors or deviations that may occur during the printing process, such as ink bleeding, metamerism, or banding.

2 How to measure color gamut?

There are two main methods for measuring color gamut in print production: spectral and colorimetric. Spectral methods use a device called a spectrophotometer, which measures the amount of light reflected or transmitted by a color sample at different wavelengths. Spectral methods are more accurate and reliable, as they capture the full spectrum of color information and can account for the effects of illumination and viewing conditions. Colorimetric methods use a device called a colorimeter, which measures the amount of light reflected or transmitted by a color sample at three primary colors: red, green, and blue. Colorimetric methods are faster and cheaper, but less accurate and consistent, as they depend on the calibration and settings of the device and the color space used.

3 What are the best practices for measuring color gamut?

To measure color gamut in print production accurately, it's important to follow some best practices. Choose the appropriate device and method for your purpose and budget; spectral methods are more suitable for critical and professional applications, while colorimetric methods are more convenient for general and casual use. Calibrate and maintain your device regularly to ensure its accuracy and stability, following the manufacturer's instructions and using the recommended calibration tools and standards. When measuring the color sample, use a consistent and representative one that covers the entire range of colors in your color space; avoid samples that are too small, too dark, or too saturated. Also, measure your color sample under controlled and standardized conditions with a neutral and uniform lighting source, such as D50 or D65, while avoiding any external influences, such as glare, shadows, or reflections. Lastly, use a consistent and optimal viewing angle and distance for your device and sample.

4 How to interpret and compare color gamut measurements?

Interpreting and comparing the results of measuring the color gamut of your device can be done using different tools and formats, such as color gamut plots. These are graphical representations of the color gamut in two-dimensional or three-dimensional color spaces, like CIE xy, CIE L*a*b*, or CIE L*u*v*. Color gamut plots show you the shape, size, and position of your color gamut, as well as how it compares to other color gamuts or color spaces. Additionally, you can measure the total amount of colors your device can produce or display in a three-dimensional color space via a numerical value known as color gamut volume. This is usually expressed in cubic units such as cubic nanometers or cubic Lab units. Additionally, you can measure how much of a reference color space your device can reproduce or display with a percentage value called color gamut coverage. This is calculated by comparing the color gamut plots or volumes of your device and the reference color space. Color gamut coverage tells you how well your device can match the colors of a specific color space, but not the accuracy or consistency of the colors.

5 How to use color gamut measurements to improve print production?

Measuring color gamut in print production can be used to improve your color reproduction and performance. By comparing the color gamut measurements of different devices and media, such as printers, papers, and inks, you can choose the ones that have the highest color capability and compatibility for your project. Additionally, you can adjust and optimize your color settings and profiles, such as brightness, contrast, saturation, and color mode, to achieve the best color output and quality. Furthermore, you can use the color gamut measurements of your device and media to evaluate and correct any color errors and deviations that may occur during the printing process. By doing so, you can identify and fix any color differences or inconsistencies between your device and media.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?