The need for color management typically is present when image files are created and passed along different imaging devices or applications. The typical workflow starts with acquiring the image file from input device then it is transferred to your PC where it is displayed and can be processed by software applications, then the image is sent to print or to other output device.

In the process there are several devices, which in most cases are not color compatible. In most of the time different imaging devices use a different gamut (color range) or work in different color space (RGB, CMYK, etc)

Therefore the function of Color Management is the uniform color interpretation across different imaging devices and applications. For example, when the image that is scanned or photographed and it is exported to your computer, then it is displayed or printed. Each device along the way interprets the image colors differently as each device usually has a different color space. Therefore, the colors of the image inputted might not be the same as colors of the outputted image. The Color Management System solves this discrepancy by combining three factors:

• ICC (International Color Consortium): the cross application/device color profile
• Working Space: the cross device standard
• CMM (Color Management Module) translates the ICC device specific profiles into working space

The Color Management process starts with the generation of the device specific profile. Wojtek has first hand experience in this procedure. He as any other ICC profile developer starts with taking a picture of Kodak Q-60 Color Input target, which is used to develop the device specific image file. The correct exposure and custom white balance are critical while generating this file. The acquired file is then fed into profiling software that detects any camera specific color discrepancies and creates the ICC profile. The ICC profile can be exported to the application that has the CMM module. The module will interpret given image file that comes from specific camera using the ICC profile as a guide. The accurate interpretation is not yet the end. Other output devices such as the monitor have to be calibrated to the standard so that the image will be accurately represented into its Working Space. The output device should also have its ICC profile. Under guidance from CMM with taking in account the output device ICC profile the outcome (printed image, displayed image, etc) is generated.

The goal is to get the image colors as close as possible to the colors of the represented subject. This is important for many reasons; single most important of them is the quality of the image file. The less color correction in your application, the more image quality.

Tools and Procedures

• How to prepare your q-60 target
  • Light your target with uniform light (studio lighting)
  • Use 18% gray target to obtain exposure information and use it your white balance reference target.
• Switch your camera to the manual mode and apply the exposure data obtained in the previous step
• Follow the instructions from your camera's manufacturer and set it to use your 18% gray target as a reference
• Take a few shots of your target; make sure that you do not have any reflections on the q60 image, as the target is highly reflective
• Acquire your image using the highest possible quality and DO NOT apply any in-camera enhancements (sharpening etc.). I would strongly suggest using 16bit (if available and linear mode).
• Crop your image as per instructions supplied with the package
• Use provided PS plug-in to place and align a sample grid over your image

• Save the prepared image in TIF image format without compression and using IBM PC byte order
• Open the prepared TIF and the associated Q60 reference data file of the target into XLProfiler Excel workbook solve the device characteristics and save the ICC profile.

If you would like to produce your own ICC/ICM profiles I would strongly encourage you to look at Timo's product. The instructions may seem to be very complicated but overall this is simple to use and very valuable tool.

The XLProfiler is available here.

Manage your colors and have fun!

AboutDigicam.COM Team