Color Modes in Photoshop
The color modes and color models of digital imaging seem to be a bit of an enigma to those first experiencing Photoshop. The diversity of color modes can be so overwhelming that novice users many times avoid these features without realizing the impact color modes can have on the end results of the image.
Color modes establish the color model that should be used to display and print digital pictures. Knowing about color modes and models and how to use them in Photoshop is a must for those wishing to achieve professional quality digital images. Take the time to learn what color modes work best in different situations. There are many good Photoshop tutorials and guides that can help you understand how to incorporate color modes into your digital imaging for optimal results for your project.
Before you even begin working with the color modes in Photoshop it is a good idea to have a basic understanding of what the color modes are and why there are different models.
To start, digital images are displayed using several different color modes. This tutorial highlights the basic color modes you will come upon when working with digital images.
RGB
RGB stands for Red Green and Blue. Colors in RGB color mode are generated using a combination of these three primary colors. You basically have three color channels to work with in RGB mode with the ability to adjust the intensity of each channel to produce different degrees of colors. Combine all three of the colors to create white.
CMYK
CMYK stands for cyan, magenta, yellow and black. RGB creates colors by mixing colors together, but CMYK basically generates color by reducing varying degrees of each color. As an example, if white is needed all colors would be subtracted to zero.
Understanding how color modes work will produce a better result and improve your digital imaging skills. Monitors use RGB color while printers use CMYK color. This can sometimes create a variance in what is displayed on the PC monitor and what is printed on paper. Software is now available to be installed that will calibrate you color monitor and your printer so that what you see on your monitor is the same as what will be printed.
