CMYK vs RGB for Printing in Brits
If you’re preparing designs for printing in Brits, knowing the difference between CMYK and RGB colour modes is vital to achieving the best print quality. It’s a common misconception that colours on your computer screen will look the same once printed, but the truth is, RGB and CMYK operate very differently. This blog breaks down the essentials of CMYK vs RGB for printing to help you get vibrant, accurate colours in your printed materials.
What is RGB?
First, let’s answer the question: What is RGB? RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue — the primary colours of light used on digital screens like laptops, phones, and TVs. RGB is an additive colour system where colours are created by mixing light in different intensities. This makes RGB great for anything viewed on a screen, offering bright and vivid colours that look great in digital form.
If your graphics are designed for websites, social media, or digital ads, RGB is the way to go. However, if RGB files are sent directly to printers without conversion, the colours often don’t translate well, resulting in dull or off-tone prints. This is why understanding the role of CMYK is crucial when moving from digital to physical print.
What is CMYK?
So, what is CMYK? CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black), which are the inks used in most printing processes. Unlike RGB, CMYK uses a subtractive colour model, layering inks to absorb light and produce various shades. This system is designed specifically for printing on paper and other physical materials.
CMYK colours tend to be less bright than RGB on screen but provide a more accurate representation of what you’ll see in print. When preparing files for printing in Brits, converting your artwork from RGB to CMYK ensures the colours remain consistent and true to your expectations.
Difference Between RGB and CMYK
The key difference between RGB and CMYK lies in their colour creation process and intended use. RGB is optimised for screens, using light to create colours, while CMYK relies on inks and works with physical materials. This fundamental difference explains why colours often appear different when moving from digital to print.
Understanding the difference between RGB and CMYK colour modes helps you avoid colour mismatches and additional costs due to reprints. If you want crisp, vibrant printed materials in Brits, always make sure your design files are set up correctly in CMYK.
By getting the CMYK vs RGB for printing right from the start, your print projects will be smoother, more reliable, and visually stunning. Contact Minuteman Press in Brits today for expert advice and flawless print results.