Schwarzwerte

Schwarzwerte is a German term used in color theory and image processing to denote the low end of the luminance spectrum, i.e., the values that correspond to black in digital or printed media.

Etymology and usage: The word combines Schwarz (black) and Werte (values). In technical contexts it describes pixel or ink values near zero brightness, and in printmaking it can refer to the density of black ink.

Digital imaging: Schwarzwerte are the low-luminance values in grayscale or color channels. They influence shadows, contrast, and detail. Common scales use 0–255, with 0 representing pure black. Gamma correction and tone-mapping affect Schwarzwerte.

Printing and reproduction: In inkjet or offset printing, Schwarzwerte reflect ink density and paper whiteness. Too low Schwarzwerte may compress shadows; too high can obscure texture.

Measurement and analysis: Histograms, luminance Y, and perceptual lightness L* quantify Schwarzwerte. Software tools provide levels or curves to adjust them while preserving shadow detail.

See also: Greyscale, Luminance, Tonal range.