A screen uses varying amounts of light to create the colors that you see. In the physical world, inks are used to create the color on the page. Color is stored by turning colors into numbers. A color model is used to describe the numerical system used.
As not all devices have the same ability to display color, a color space is used to define the gamut (available range) of color. By working within a color space suitable for the intended output device, you can be confident that your colors will be able to be displayed as intended.
In Affinity Photo, you can use an RGB workflow as default or take advantage of an end-to-end CMYK or Lab color-managed workflow as you create a new document instead.
About color models
Different color models represent color as numbers in different ways. When working in Affinity Photo, you can choose one of four color models.
RGB model
The RGB model is an additive color model. The primary colors of light, Red, Green and Blue, are combined in various degrees to make other colors in the spectrum.
A representation of the RGB color model. This model is universal within digital cameras and electronic displays.
CMYK model
The CMYK model is a subtractive model. Cyan, Magenta and Yellow are combined to make each color. A fourth ink, Black, is also used for extra control and can be used either on its own for a true black, or combined with the other inks for a rich black.
A representation of the CMYK color model. When the three colors are combined they make black. Black is also added as a separate color for extra tonal control.
Lab
Lab color represents the theoretical range of human vision using three channels: Lightness (L), and two color channels of opposing values of 'red - green' (a) and 'yellow - blue' (b). It can be very useful when used creatively, especially as Lightness can be adjusted without any change to hue or saturation.
A representation of the Lab color opposition model. Lightness (L) is controlled separately to the two color channels (a, b).To select a new document's color model:
As you create a new document, select an option from the Color Format pop-up menu.
To change your document's color model at any time:
From the Document Menu, tap Convert Document and choose an alternative Color space.
