Short answer
RGB screens create colour with red, green and blue light. CMYK printing builds colour with cyan, magenta, yellow and black inks or toner. Their colour ranges and viewing conditions differ, so a bright screen cannot guarantee an identical printed result.
Why screens vary
Brightness, display technology, calibration, viewing angle and ambient light change the appearance. Two phones may show the same file differently.
Why printed pieces vary
Ink or toner, device calibration, paper colour, coating, surface and lighting affect the result. An uncoated sheet can look different from a glossy surface even with the same artwork.
Colour profiles
A profile describes how colour values relate to a device or printing condition. Converting without the correct profile can shift colour. Follow the production instructions for the chosen product.
Spot colours and brand references
Brands may define reference colours for consistency. Whether a spot-colour workflow is available depends on the process. Supply the approved reference and discuss the tolerance and proof.
Physical proofs
A proof can help evaluate layout and colour, but ask whether it uses the final process and material. A desktop printout is not automatically a contract colour proof.
Common mistakes
- Approving colour on maximum screen brightness
- Using screenshots as source artwork
- Converting repeatedly between colour spaces
- Ignoring paper colour
- Expecting fluorescent screen colours from standard inks
- Omitting the approved brand reference
FAQs
Should every file be converted to CMYK? Follow the printer’s requested workflow; automatic conversion without the correct profile can cause changes.
Will a PDF fix colour? PDF preserves file structure, but colour setup still matters.
Can exact colour be guaranteed? Discuss process, material, references, tolerances and proofing rather than assuming.
Get help matching your colours
Browse our digital printing options, read our print-ready artwork checklist, and send us your approved brand colour references with your file so we can flag anything that may shift in print.
