Have you ever wondered why your photos look different on you r phone compared to when you print them out? It’s like the colors just don’t pop the same way. Well, there’s a reason for that, and it all comes down to how colors are made on screens versus in print. Let’s break it down.
Light Bulbs vs. Ink
Think of your phone or computer screen like a tiny light show, using red, green, and blue lights to make all the colors you see. This is called RGB color. Because it’s light making the colors, they can be super bright and vivid.
Now, imagine printing a photo. Instead of light, we use ink or paint in cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (that’s CMYK color) to create the image. Since we’re using ink, not light, the colors can look a bit different. It’s kind of like comparing a glowing neon sign to a painted mural.
Why We Change Colors for Printing
Before a photo gets printed, it usually gets changed from RGB to CMYK. This helps make sure the colors look as close as possible to what we see on our screens, even though we’re using ink instead of light. But, it’s tricky to get an exact match because of the different ways colors are made.
Why Good Printing Makes a Difference
Printing quality really matters. If the printing is not great, colors can look off, and photos might not be as clear or as sharp. That’s why it’s worth it to get photos printed professionally. Good quality printing helps make sure the colors look right and that your memories look just as good on paper as they do on your screen.
Some Questions You Might Have
Why do colors look different on my phone and my friend’s phone?
Every screen is set up a bit differently, and things like brightness and the light in the room can change how colors look.
How can I make my two screens look more alike in color?
You can try adjusting the color settings on your screens to match as closely as possible. It might take a bit of fiddling to get it just right.
Why do we sometimes see colors differently?
Our brains can play tricks on us with colors depending on the light around us and other factors. It’s all about how we perceive color.
Why do my photos look different on my computer and phone?
Each device has its own way of showing colors, which can make the same photo look different from one screen to another.
Bonus tip worth mentioning
The quality of the print not only depends on the materials used, but also the resolution of the photo being printed. For instance, if you hired a professional photographer to take photos, and you took a screen shot and sent that to be printed, that photo will look very bad. Make sure you are not sending a screen shot to be printed. Download the files the photographer sent you for use.
Wrap-Up
So, there you have it. The reason your photos can look different when printed is all about the way colors are created with light and ink. And while converting colors and choosing high-quality printing can help make sure your printed photos look their best, some differences might still be there. But that’s okay! It’s all part of what makes each form of viewing photos unique.
DO YOU WANT TO MAKE SURE YOUR WEDDING PHOTOS LOOK INCREDIBLE NO MATTER THE MEDIUM?
ladman studios
TJ Ladzinski is a Connecticut-based wedding photographer known for blending cinematic artistry with genuine, unscripted moments. His approach strikes the perfect balance between candid and intentional creativity, resulting in photos that feel authentic yet elevated.
Recognized in top wedding publications for his craft, TJ is dedicated to capturing the heart of each couple’s story. With an laid-back and playful energy, he ensures the experience is as seamless and enjoyable as the photos themselves.
