What is the standard color model for print media?

The standard color model for print media is CMYK, which stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). This model is specifically designed for use in color printing, as it is based on the subtractive color model, where colors are created by subtracting varying percentages of light absorbed by the inks. When these inks are layered over a white surface, light is absorbed and reflected to create the desired colors.

In the CMYK model, colors are produced by mixing different ratios of these four ink colors. This allows for the creation of a wide range of colors in printed materials, making it ideal for everything from brochures to magazines and other forms of printed media. It effectively represents how colors appear on paper, aligning with the physical properties of inks.

While other color models, like RGB (which stands for Red, Green, and Blue), are commonly used for digital displays due to their additive nature, they are not suitable for print. RGB colors are created by combining light, while print relies on ink and the absorption of light, making CMYK the preferred model for any print-related work. The HSB and Lab color models serve different purposes in design and color manipulation but do not specifically cater to the needs of print media in the same way