Digital booths
Check metamerism when a booth colour changes under another light
A print and the original scene can match under one light and diverge under another.
A shirt that looks neutral on a phone screen may look green under a party lamp or different again on paper. This is not always a camera error; viewing illumination changes how colours are perceived.
Separate capture from viewing
Metamerism describes materials or colour samples that appear to match under one illuminant but differ under another. A screen emits light, while a paper print reflects room light, so direct side-by-side comparison is meaningful only when viewing conditions are considered.
Evidence: Standards body technical guide
Compare under a consistent source
View a reference print and screen image under the same neutral, stable illumination when possible. Note whether the difference moves with the room light or remains visible on the calibrated display. Do not edit the source file to compensate for a coloured lamp in the room.
Explain the limit to guests
Colour-managed files improve consistency but cannot force every screen and lamp to look identical. Check a proof print under the intended viewing light before changing a whole photo set. Record the viewing conditions alongside any colour approval.
Evidence: International standard
Sources & further reading
Sources for the specific facts and product descriptions above. Our worked examples, interpretations and practical suggestions are original editorial guidance.
- International Color Consortium, Introduction to the ICC Profile FormatStandards body technical guide
- ISO, ISO 12646:2015 Displays for Colour ProofingInternational standard