Studio Staples: Getting Accurate Reference Photos

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Working from reference photos can provide a starting point for your work, but a poor photo can influence your decisions based on a poor understanding of color cast, temperature and contrast. When you capture more true-to-life color in your reference, you can see the exact hues and tones that are present in the subject. This accuracy allows you to make informed creative decisions about how to use color in your work, whether to replicate the natural colors or modify them for a specific effect. Starting with more accurate reference photos ensures that any color adjustments made during the creative process are intentional and well-grounded.

To get some advice, I reached out to a friend and professional photographer, Steve Glass. As a professional, he was able to provide insight into three important steps for improving color accuracy.

Shoot in RAW

When taking photos, be sure to shoot in RAW format instead of JPEG. RAW files capture all the details and colors from the scene without compressing the image. This means you’ll have more flexibility when editing your photos, allowing you to adjust the exposure, contrast and white balance without losing quality.

Use a Calibrator

To make sure the colors in your photos are accurate, use a calibrator like the Datacolor SpyderCHECKR 24. The calibrator helps correct any color inconsistencies, ensuring your photos have true-to-life colors. Start by taking a photo with the calibrator in the frame. If you’re holding the calibrator yourself, set your camera’s timer to avoid shaking the camera. Then, take one shot in direct light and another in shaded light. The calibrator software analyzes the color settings of the color samples in your photos and makes adjustments to the color settings until they align with the baseline samples.

Calibrate Your Monitor

After taking your photos, it’s important to calibrate your monitor using a tool like the Calibrite Display Pro HL. Calibrating your monitor makes sure that the colors you see on your screen match the colors in your reference photos. This step is crucial because even the best reference photos can look different if viewed on an uncalibrated monitor.

Follow these steps to make sure you are working with accurate and true-to-life reference photos. With the right tools and techniques, capturing and utilizing precise colors becomes easier, paving the way for more strategic and nuanced decisions about color in your own work.

Meet the Artist

Scott Maier is an artist and a content contributor to artistsnetwork.com. He’s also the author of the instructional art book See, Think, Draw: An Easy Guide for Realistic Drawing and Beyond.