Color Space FAQ

What is Color Space?

A "color space" is a useful conceptual tool for understanding the color capabilities of a particular device or digital file. When trying to reproduce color on another device, color spaces can show whether you will be able to retain shadow/highlight detail, color saturation, and by how much either will be compromised.

What are the most popular color spaces used for editing?

sRGB IEC61966-2.1, ProPhoto RGB and Adobe RGB 1998.

What color space do you accept?

sRGB IEC61966-2.1.

What happens if I upload in a color space other than sRGB IEC61966-2.1?

If the file is converted to ProPhoto or Adobe 1998 and it hits our server, it will get converted to sRGB IEC61966-2.1 without issue or a warning. When a file had been assigned the wrong color space and it has not been converted to sRGB IEC61966-2.1, you will start to see discoloration. When an image is in the wrong color space they often appear muted, dark, and sometimes with a green hue. 

Correct / Converted Profile sRGB IEC61966-2.1

Incorrect / Assigned Profile Adobe 98 > sRGB IEC61966-2.1

Incorrect / Assigned Profile ProPhoto > sRGB IEC61966-2.1

How do I convert to the correct color space?

Open the file in Photoshop. Click "Edit" at the top and select "Assign Profile". You want to make sure the profile says sRGB IEC61966-2.1. If it says anything else, it is not in the correct color space (see below). 

 

 

If the profile is incorrect as it is above, close that window and go back to "Edit" and click "Convert to Profile". Make sure the "Destination Space" Profile is set to sRGB IEC61966-2.1 Then click OK and you're good to go!

 

 

 

Are there any other settings I should check?

Yes, click "Image" at the top and select "Mode". You want to make sure it says RGB Color and 8 bits/Channel. Save as a jpg and you're ready to order!