Why Does My Paint Colour Differ from What I Saw Online?
Understanding the difference between screen colours and real-life paints
Have you ever experienced the frustration of ordering a paint colour online, only to find that it looks completely different in real life? Well... you're not alone.
The differences between the colours seen on screen and the actual paint colours can be attributed to various factors, including the intrinsic nature of natural, pigment-based paints. In this article, we'll delve into why these differences occur and how you can navigate them to ensure you get the perfect colour for your project.
Understanding Colour Perception
Colour perception can vary from person to person and can be influenced by factors such as lighting conditions, surrounding colours, personal perception, and even optical illusions created by colour context.
Additive vs. Subtractive Colours
To understand why paint colours may differ between screens and real life, it's essential to grasp the concepts of additive and subtractive colours. Additive colours are created by combining different wavelengths of light, as seen in digital screens. On the other hand, subtractive colours are created by absorbing certain wavelengths of light and reflecting others, as seen in natural pigment-based paints.
Screen Colours vs. Real Paint Colours
One of the primary reasons for the disparity between screen colours and real paint colours lies in the difference between digital representation and physical pigments. While screens use additive colours to create a vast spectrum of hues, natural paints rely on pigments derived from minerals, plants, or other sources. This fundamental distinction can lead to discrepancies in colour accuracy, as not all screen colours can be replicated using natural pigments.
Factors Contributing to Colour Variation
- Screen Calibration: The settings and calibration of your device's screen affect how colours are displayed. What appears vibrant on one screen may appear dull or washed out on another.
- Lighting Conditions: Natural light, artificial light, and even the time of day can influence the appearance of paint colours.
- Pigment Composition: Natural paints derive their colours from various pigments, each with unique properties. These differences can result in subtle variations in colour between batches or manufacturers.
- Surrounding Colours and Optical Illusions: The way we perceive colour is influenced by nearby colours, creating optical illusions where the same hue can look different depending on its surroundings.
Tips for Accurate Colour Selection
- Request Samples: We offer swatches to test on your walls before committing to a large purchase. Though these are costly to produce and can't be offered for free, we provide a refund discount on your actual paint order. See complete conditions here or contact us.
- Consider Lighting: Evaluate how the paint colour looks under different lighting conditions, both natural and artificial, for a more accurate representation.
- Consult Experts: If you're unsure about which colour to choose, seek advice from paint specialists or interior designers.
While the differences between screen colours and real paint colours can be frustrating, understanding the factors at play can help you make more informed decisions. By considering screen calibration, lighting conditions, pigment composition, and surrounding colours, you can ensure that the colour you choose is as close to your vision as possible.
Remember, it's all about finding the perfect hue to bring your space to life!
