CMYKvärviruumi

CMYK is a subtractive color model used in color printing. It stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). Unlike additive color models like RGB which create colors by adding light, CMYK works by subtracting light from a white surface. When printing, inks are applied to paper, and these inks absorb certain wavelengths of light and reflect others. Cyan ink absorbs red light, Magenta absorbs green light, and Yellow absorbs blue light. By combining these three primary colors in varying proportions, a wide range of secondary colors can be produced.

The "K" in CMYK represents Key, which is typically Black. Black ink is added for several reasons. Firstly, mixing cyan, magenta, and yellow inks does not always produce a pure, deep black, often resulting in a muddy brown. Secondly, using black ink is more economical for printing black text and graphics than using a combination of the three process colors. Thirdly, black ink provides better detail and contrast.

The CMYK color space is device-dependent, meaning the exact colors produced can vary based on the specific inks, paper, and printing process used. This is why color management is crucial in professional printing to ensure consistent and accurate color reproduction. Designers and printers often work with color profiles to define how colors will be rendered across different devices and output mediums.