colormanagement

Color management is the practice of preserving consistent color across devices such as cameras, scanners, monitors, and printers. It relies on linking device-specific color representations to a device-independent reference space, typically via ICC profiles and a color management module (CMM). The goal is to produce predictable colors from capture to output.

Key concepts include device characterization, which measures how a device reproduces color to create an ICC profile describing its gamut and performance; and the device-independent color spaces (for example sRGB, Adobe RGB, ProPhoto RGB, or CMYK) used as common targets. Profiles establish how data should be translated between devices.

Rendering intents govern how colors are mapped when moving between gamuts. Common intents are perceptual (preserve visual relationships by compressing tones), relative colorimetric (preserve gamut boundaries), absolute colorimetric (keep absolute colors), and saturation (favor vivid colors for graphics).

Practically, color management involves calibrating and profiling devices, embedding ICC profiles in files, and using software that respects profiles. The workflow often includes monitor calibration, soft proofing, and color conversions when exporting to print or display devices.

Color management is essential in photography, design, and publishing to achieve consistent results. Limitations include device inaccuracies, gamut limitations, and the need for correct workflow configuration; soft proofing and profile choices can help anticipate differences between onscreen and printed output.