Accurate, Consistent Color Starts Now
Join the Datacolor community for pro workflow tips, behind-the-scenes techniques from our Ambassadors, and early access to new releases.
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Setup Essentials
Easy step-by-step setup for accurate color. Free. No signup required.
Color you can trust, in minutes.
No calibration software. Just a consistent, neutral reference point to achieve accurate color and proper exposure.
Placement
- Place the card in the same lighting conditions as the subject.
- Ensure the card faces directly toward the camera, avoiding glare or uneven lighting.
Setting White Balance
- Set your camera to manual or custom white balance mode.
- Aim your camera so that the large patch fills up as much of the frame as possible.
- Use your camera to sample the larger patch to set the new white balance.
Reference Shot
- Take a reference photo with the card filling a reasonable portion of the frame.
Post-Processing
- Open the image in your editing software (e.g., Lightroom, Capture One, etc.).
- Verify and adjust all photos taken under the same lighting.
Keep your card reading true.
Here’s a few simple habits to keep your reference surface accurate.
- Avoid touching the target surfaces — oils from skin can affect accuracy.
- Always return the card to its protective sleeve after use.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
One card, accurate skin tones. Drag to compare.
Mixed tungsten + daylight is where most cameras guess wrong. A single grey reference removes the guesswork — pulling orange skin neutral, and rescuing detail lost to auto white balance.

