Nikon D600 For Dummies

Choosing a Color Space: sRGB Versus Adobe RGB

By default, your camera captures images using the sRGB color mode, which refers to an industry-standard spectrum of colors. (The s is for standard, and the RGB is for red-green-blue, which are the primary colors in the digital color world.) The sRGB color mode was created to help ensure color consistency as an image moves from camera (or scanner) to monitor and printer; the idea was to create a spectrum of colors that all these devices can reproduce.

However, the sRGB color spectrum leaves out some colors that can be reproduced in print and onscreen, at least by some devices. So as an alternative, your camera also enables you to shoot in the Adobe RGB color mode, which includes a larger spectrum (or gamut) of colors. Figure 8-36 offers an illustration of the two spectrums.

Figure 8-36: Adobe RGB includes some colors not tutes the closest printable color, found in the sRGB spectrum.

Some colors in the Adobe RGB spectrum can't be reproduced in print. (The printer just substitutes the closest printable color, if necessary.) Still, I usually shoot in Adobe RGB mode because I see no reason to limit myself to a smaller spectrum from the get-go.

However, just because I use Adobe RGB doesn't mean that it's right for you. First, if you plan to print and share your photos without making any adjustments in your photo editor, you're better off sticking ...