If you've ever had a project commercially printed, you've most likely heard the term "CMYK". But what does CMYK mean and why is it important?

Let's discuss the definition of CMYK, how this color process works in commercial printing and why it is the dominant color model.

What is CMYK?

CMYK is an acronym for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black. CMYK refers to the 4 primary colors of pigment used in 4 Color Process Printing. The CMYK color model also describes the full color printing process itself. In full color printing, every image is color separated into Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black in specific dot patterns that vary in size and frequency to create a combination of ay color with a fraction of the ink.

CMYK vs. RGB?

CMYK is a subractive color spectrum. This means that these inks mask colors on a lighter background (like white paper). The CMYK ink subtracts the red, green and blue from white light and leaves the Cyan, Magenta, and Yellow. Black is the absence of color.

The CMYK color model works by partially or entirely masking colors on the lighter surface (paper or substrate). The ink reduces the light that would otherwise be reflected.

The RGB color model works the opposite. RGB is an additive color spectrum. When RGB colors overlap, the results are subtractive colors (cyan, magenta, yellow) RGB color model uses transmitted light. Additive color models use light to display color, while subractive (CMYK) color models use reflected light.

RGB color space is primarily used on digital displays (computers, tablets, TVs, etc) and uses the light from the device to display the color. The colors result from transmitted light. When all spectrums from the RGB color space overlap, the result is white.

CMYK color space is primarily used for printed material and uses ink to display color. The colors result from reflected light. When all spectrums from the CMYK color space overlap, the result is black.

RGB will need to be converted to CMYK color space for printing.

RGB Colors may look great on screen, but they will need to be converted to CMYK color space before supplying your art files to your printer.

Conclusion: CMYK Produces Superior Color in Printing.

In conclusion, CMYK is the industry standard for printing because of the science behind the color space and the substrate. Ink on paper must use the CMYK color space to acheive the optimum results by creating an unlimited number and shades of color. CMYK will produce full, dark, rich and vibrant colors to bring your project on paper to life!