The Importance of Monitor Calibration


Monitor calibration is a process that provides a screen display that will simulate exactly what you will see on paper when you print an image. Since images on your screen usually look different once you decide to print them, monitor calibration can save you from disappointments and costs of photo papers.

One of the simplest methods of monitor calibration is done by adjusting the Contrast and Brightness settings located on your monitor. For advanced users, monitor calibration can also involve using software to help in calibrating not only the monitor, but also your scanner, printer, digital camera and other devices that could provide the same image quality on print. Because of this, scanned images, camera-taken images and on-screen images will look exactly alike when you print them.

If you wish to print simple images or view them online, the simple method of monitor calibration will do. However, if you need to match colors accurately for serious design projects, you can benefit from using software for monitor calibration.

Your Guide to a Simple Monitor Calibration

Before calibrating your monitor, you should ensure that it is set in high-color or 24-bit mode. Although you can use ordinary room lighting, you need to avoid possible reflections and glares from windows or lights.

The first thing you should do is to locate the controls of your monitor. In order to make the necessary adjustments, look for the Contrast and Brightness button that is usually located at the front of the monitor or as on-screen controls. Be aware that performing a monitor calibration when you already used hardware or software methods could easily mess up the calibration process.

Once you located the Contrast and Brightness control, you will be able to adjust the monitor by seeing different shades of gray, bright white and black as well as color adjustments. By trying out the ideal shade for brightness and contrast, you can improve the color quality of images both printed and on-screen.

If you need consistent colors, ICC Profiles can assign a specific file for each device on your computer with detailed information on how certain devices produce colors. Hardware and other tools used in monitor calibration, as well as for calibrating digital cameras, scanners and printers use ICC profiles to ensure that all devices have the exact colors.

Just like simple monitor calibration, you will go through several steps in calibrating your monitor using software. However, expect a more detailed on-screen display compared to simple calibration. Regardless of what method of calibration you choose, the most important thing you should remember is to ensure that you feel comfortable with the colors you set.