X-Rite photo

Date Created: 7/23/2009   Date Modified: 4/11/2019

-Tips for Capturing the ColorChecker Classic Target

When capturing the ColorChecker Classic, there are a few things to keep in mind for best results.

  • Size - For highest profile quality the ColorChecker Classic should comprise at least 10% of a 10 megapixel image. If it is too small within the image, the color patches may not contain enough pixels to sample accurately and profile quality may suffer.
  • Rotation - The ColorChecker Classic may be rotated within the image, but as far as possible it should be placed parallel to the plane of the lens. Try not to tilt the target towards or away from the camera.
  • Distortion - Avoid placing the ColorChecker Classic in images where its shape will be distorted. If it is necessary to place it in an image containing distortion, such as a shot taken with a fisheye lens, place the ColorChecker Classic in the least distorted part of the image. Do not cover or shade patches, and make sure the chart doesn’t fill the frame. Some lenses may vignette around the edges, so it may be helpful to bracket the target.
  • Focus - The ColorChecker Classic should be in focus. If the focus is too soft the auto-location feature may have difficulty recognizing the edges of the target.
  • Exposure - The ColorChecker Classic should be properly exposed in the image. If color channels are clipped you will not be able to make a profile with the image.
  • Lighting - The lighting of the ColorChecker Classic should match the lighting of the subject of the image. This is especially useful for unusual and mixed light sources. Even lighting is important. When you set up the target, make sure there are not any strong shadows or reflections on it. In daylight conditions, it can sometimes be helpful to use a reflector to fill the shadows.

Then, focus and shoot!