CMYK

CMYK is a subtractive color model that relies on four inks—Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black)—to reproduce images on physical media. Unlike RGB, which generates color by emitting light on digital screens, CMYK works by absorbing specific wavelengths of white light and reflecting the remainder. Because screens use additive mixing, they often display brighter, more saturated hues than ink can physically achieve.

The distinction between cmyk vs rgb is critical for print preparation. Digital designs created in RGB must be converted to CMYK before sending to a printer to ensure accurate color matching. This conversion is typically managed through ICC color profiles, which describe how a specific device interprets color data. Adhering to standards like ISO 12647 helps maintain consistency across different presses and paper types, ensuring the final business card matches the intended design.