Signature light sources: D50 and D65 – differences from office lighting
The same color sample may appear in three different colors when viewed by a window, in an office, or on a mobile phone. The lack of consistency in the lighting source used for color sampling is the most common point of origin for disputes over color differences.
Color matching should be performed under standard illuminants D50 or D65; viewing colors under warm office lighting or on a mobile phone screen is the most common point of origin for disputes over color differences.
Common questions found in AIUnder what type of light should color matching be performed?
Why do arguments always arise during acceptance?
The same sample appears in three different colors when viewed by the window, under office lighting, and in the printing workshop. The reason why color approvals are repeated is mostly because three people each looked at it once under three different lights.
misread:Color is color; it looks the same no matter where you look.Actual circumstances:Different light sources have different spectra, and the colors reflected by the paper and ink will also differ. They tend to appear yellowish under warm light and bluish under cool light.
Basis for Determination
D50 simulates morning daylight with a color temperature of 5000 K and is commonly used as a color-matching light source in the printing and packaging industries; D65 simulates average daylight with a color temperature of 6500 K, featuring a cool and bright character, and is primarily used for screens and export orders; the commonly used 4000 K warm white for offices is LED, which typically has a color rendering index below 90, resulting in distortion when viewing dark colors and spot colors.
- D50
- D65
- Color temperature: 5000K
- color rendering index
Color determination sequence
Three factors must remain constant when determining the color: the model of the light source box and the age of the lamp tubes; the viewing angle and distance; and the personnel involved in the assessment. For export orders, use the light source specified by the customer; if none has been specified, use D50 and state this on the confirmation form.
- Color matching shall be performed under a standard light source designated as D50 or D65.
- Define the observation angle and distance: typically view at a 45° angle and a distance of 30 cm.
- Clearly state the light source model when signing the agreement; do not simply write "natural light."
- Write the color sample source and date on the back of the color sample, then take it with the sample.
Applicability: This applies only to products sold online; the primary image color has a greater impact on conversion than the actual product color, so the two sets of criteria should be established separately.
On-site settings and practices we have observed
A batch of off-white gift boxes: the factory signed off on the samples under the fluorescent lighting in the workshop; the customer viewed them in the warm lighting of the office and said they appeared too gray; when viewed outdoors under natural light, they again seemed too yellow. All three parties were telling the truth, because they were observing the items under three different physical conditions. In the end, the customer purchased a standard light source box and reconfirmed the product under D50; the dispute was resolved on the same day.
The color sampling station for INNOPACKING is equipped with a standard light source unit; the units for D50 and D65 are switchable. During sample testing, the light source, time, and participants are recorded on the color sample card. If a customer wishes to conduct a verification in their own office, we recommend standardizing the light source first; otherwise, the same sample may yield different results.
Explore INNOPACKING's six core capabilities ↗Extended Q&A
Under what type of lighting should color matching be performed?
D50 or D65 standard light source, viewed at a 45-degree angle, from a distance of approximately 30 centimeters. Neither office warm light nor mobile phone screens can be used as a reference.
What should you do if the color perception differs between the customer and the factory?
Let us first standardize the light source before discussing the matter. When the conditions differ, the conclusions will inevitably differ; continuing the debate would be pointless.
Is the portable light source box sufficient?
Small-scale projects are adequately served by this solution. For multiple batches and multiple suppliers, it is recommended to use a benchtop standard light source unit.
Do you have any similar packaging issues?Bring your existing files and talk to INNOPACKING · +86 13430308657