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How do you find the color code of an object?

By: Author Color With Leo

How do you find the color code of an object?

Finding the exact color code of any object can be useful for graphic design, web development, fashion design, interior decorating, and more. The color code allows you to precisely match and reproduce a color in digital or print formats. There are a few different methods you can use to find the RGB, HEX, CMYK, or Pantone color code of an object. The easiest way for beginners is to use a color identifier tool or color matching app.

Use a color identifier tool

Color identifier tools allow you to point your camera at an object and read the color code instantly. The tool scans the object and detects the precise RGB, HEX, and sometimes CMYK or Pantone values. Here are some popular options:

  • Adobe Color CC – Free app for iOS and Android
  • ColorSnap – Free app for iOS and Android from Sherwin Williams
  • Color Muse – Free website color identifier
  • Nix Pro Color Sensor – $99 handheld color reader

To use one of these tools, simply point your smartphone camera or color reader at the object you want to identify. Make sure you have adequate lighting and fill up as much of the viewfinder as possible with the object color. The app or device will read the main color and provide the numeric code. This is the easiest way for beginners to find an exact color match.

Use a digital color picker

If you’re working on a computer, you can use a digital color picker tool to sample colors from a physical object. Here’s how it works in a few simple steps:

  1. Have the physical object with the target color next to your computer.
  2. Open an image or document in a program like Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign.
  3. Select the color picker tool, it’s usually an eye-dropper icon.
  4. Hover the picker over the physical object on your screen.
  5. Click on the object to sample the color.
  6. The color code will appear, typically RGB, HEX, and CMYK values.

This method provides very accurate color sampling. Make sure you have sufficient light on the object to avoid shadows and reflections which can distort the color. Try sampling from multiple areas and angles to get an average color.

Scan a color chart

For professional-level color accuracy, you can scan a physical object using a color chart. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Obtain a color reference chart such as the X-Rite ColorChecker.
  2. Place the object you want to sample next to the color chart.
  3. Photograph or scan the object and chart together under optimal lighting.
  4. Open the scanned image in Photoshop and use the eyedropper to sample from the color chart first.
  5. Tell Photoshop to adjust for white balance and calibrate colors using the known values from the color chart.
  6. Finally, sample the color from your target object. This will give you extremely precise professional color specifications for print design.

This process requires more specialized equipment but is essential for projects like developing branded color palettes or matching product colors across manufacturing facilities. The color chart calibration accounts for differences in monitors, lighting, and scanners.

Use a spectrophotometer

A spectrophotometer is a scientific instrument that measures the precise spectral reflectance of a color and expresses it digitally. This is the most advanced way to get accurate color codes for manufacturing, science, and other technical applications.

Using a spectrophotometer involves these steps:

  1. Obtain a spectrophotometer and calibrate it for your environment.
  2. Place the physical object sample at the input port.
  3. The spectrophotometer light source will scan the object.
  4. Sensors read the spectrum of reflected light.
  5. Software converts the spectral data into digital color codes like CIELAB, RGB, HEX, etc.

Spectrophotometers range from portable handheld devices to advanced benchtop laboratory instruments. They allow you to get color specifications that take surface properties, light sources, and human vision into account. However, spectrophotometers are more complex and expensive than other options.

Use RGB and HEX color codes

Once you’ve identified the color code of an object using one of the methods above, you can apply it in your projects. Here are some tips for working with the RGB and HEX codes:

  • RGB values define the red, green, and blue light components on a scale of 0 to 255. For example, a bright red might be R:255, G:0, B:0.
  • HEX codes represent colors as a 6-character combination of letters A-F and numbers 0-9. The values define the RGB components in hexadecimal base notation. For example, #FF0000 is red.
  • Use RGB for digital design in programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Use HEX codes for web design in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and hex colors in programs like Photoshop.
  • Convert between RGB and HEX easily using built-in color picker tools.

Keep in mind that the appearance of RGB and HEX colors varies based on lighting conditions, surrounding colors, and the capabilities of the display device. Always view physical proofs before finalizing designs.

Use CMYK codes for print design

For professional print projects, you’ll want to convert RGB color codes to CMYK. Here’s a quick overview:

  • CMYK stands for the Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (black) ink components used in printing.
  • CMYK has 4 values from 0-100% for each ink component. For example, a bright blue might be C:100, M:45, Y:0, K:0.
  • RGB codes can’t accurately represent printable colors. The color gamut (range) is different.
  • Use tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign to convert RGB to CMYK.
  • Preview CMYK colors using Pantone swatches or physical proofs before final printing.

Converting RGB to CMYK will make some necessary adjustments to the color, since RGB has a wider gamut. Avoid converting color codes manually, since your software will handle the adjustments professionally for the specific printer, ink, and paper you are using.

Match to Pantone colors

For professional design and branding purposes, you may want to match colors to the Pantone color system. Here are some tips:

  • Pantone is a standardized color matching system used in graphic design and printing.
  • Each Pantone color has a unique name and number code, like PMS 185 C for red.
  • Use a Pantone color guide with physical swatches to find the nearest match.
  • Or, convert digital color codes to the nearest Pantone swatch in programs like Illustrator.
  • Always get professional Pantone swatches for final color approval, since digital conversions are only approximations.

Pantone allows designers, printers, and manufacturers around the world to precisely match colors for consistent branding. Pantone swatch books and digital libraries allow you to find the perfect shade.

Conclusion

Finding the exact color code for physical objects allows you to achieve accurate color matches across digital and print media. Use scanner tools for quick sampling, color charts for professional scans, or spectrophotometers for lab-level accuracy. RGB and HEX codes are great for digital design, while CMYK and Pantone codes are essential for professional print projects. With some basic knowledge of color coding, you can achieve perfect color reproduction and consistency.