Isolate and cut objects out of photos.
Remove every background by hand.
Enhance photos for a polished look.
Edit photos for creative effects.
Repair and revive damaged photos.
Remove difficult backgrounds.
Show clothes without the mannequin.
Turn images into scalable graphics.
Add realistic shadows to photos.
Correct and enhance photo colors.
Edit product photos for online stores.
Enhance your wedding memories.
Written by Tasfia Chowdhury Supty
Check out our professional photo editing and retouching services.
White balance is a critical factor in photography, as it helps ensure that colors in your images appear natural and true to life. One effective tool to achieve perfect white balance is a white balance card. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, knowing how to use a white balance card can significantly improve the quality of your photos. This guide explains how to use a white balance card, the different types of white balance cards, and why it’s essential in photography.
A white balance card is a tool used in photography to help set the correct color temperature for a scene. It helps balance the colors in your image so that white objects appear white, and other colors are accurate. This is especially important in environments with artificial lighting, which can give photos an unnatural color cast. By using a white balance card, you can eliminate these color discrepancies and create more realistic and vibrant images.
Using a white balance card is essential because:
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a white balance card in your photography:
Position the white balance card in the scene you plan to photograph. It should be in the same lighting conditions and angle as your subject. Ensure the card is visible in the frame but does not obstruct the subject you intend to capture.
The white balance card must be lit by the same light that illuminates the scene. If you’re shooting under natural daylight, make sure the card is under the same light as the rest of the scene. If you’re using artificial lighting, place the card in the light that will be used for the photo.
To use the white balance card, set your camera to its custom white balance mode. Most cameras allow you to set a custom white balance based on an image you take. Once your card is in the frame, take a photo of it.
After setting the custom white balance, review the image on your camera’s display. If the image looks too warm or cool, adjust the white balance until the colors appear as natural as possible.
Once your camera is properly calibrated, you can now take your photos with the correct white balance setting. Every image you capture will reflect the colors you intended, without any unnatural color casts.
There are several types of white balance cards, each offering different features and uses. Here are some common types:
A simple, all-white card is one of the most basic types of white balance cards. It works by reflecting light and creating a neutral white tone. This type of card is ideal for general use and can be easily found in many photography stores.
An 18% gray card is often preferred for white balance calibration. This card reflects 18% of the light that hits it, which is considered a standard for middle gray in photography. It is commonly used in conjunction with a light meter for more precise exposure control.
The ColorChecker Passport is a professional tool that includes multiple color chips in addition to white balance. This card helps achieve not only accurate white balance but also precise color correction during post-processing. It’s often used in commercial and professional photography.
Some cards offer dual-color options, combining a black side and a white side. These cards are convenient as they allow for more flexibility depending on the lighting conditions. The black side can help with exposure, while the white side is used for white balance calibration.
Foldable or portable white balance cards are designed for ease of use on location shoots. They can be easily folded into a compact size, making them convenient for photographers on the go.
No, you don’t need a white balance card for every photo shoot, but it’s helpful when shooting in tricky lighting conditions. If you’re shooting in a consistent environment with natural light, the auto white balance function of your camera may be sufficient.
Yes, white balance cards can be used for video as well. The process is the same: place the card in the scene, take a photo or video, and set the white balance according to your camera settings.
Yes, auto white balance can be inaccurate in some lighting conditions, especially under artificial lighting. Using a white balance card provides a more accurate result, ensuring consistent and natural color reproduction.
It’s recommended to recalibrate your white balance whenever the lighting conditions change significantly. For instance, if you move to a new location with different lighting or if the time of day changes, you may need to adjust the white balance again.
Yes, it’s possible to correct white balance in post-processing software, such as Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop. However, using a white balance card ensures accurate results in-camera, saving you time in post-editing.
Using a white balance card is an effective method to ensure your photos have accurate and natural colors. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional photographer, incorporating this simple tool into your workflow can make a significant difference in the quality of your images. By understanding how to use a white balance card and selecting the right type for your needs, you’ll be able to take your photography to the next level.
This page was last edited on 12 May 2025, at 2:48 pm
A cramped apartment, poor lighting, and unpredictable weather—these are common frustrations for photographers without access to a proper studio. Whether you’re a budding portrait artist, a fashion photographer on a deadline, or a brand launching your next product line, renting a photo studio can mean the difference between amateur results and professional-grade work. But navigating […]
If you’re diving into the world of photo editing and want a powerful free tool, you’ve likely come across Darktable and GIMP. Both are open-source programs designed for image manipulation, but they serve different purposes and excel in different areas. In this in-depth comparison of Darktable vs GIMP, we’ll break down their features, use cases, […]
In today’s visually-driven digital world, the ability to edit images quickly and effortlessly has become increasingly important. Whether you’re a social media enthusiast, a small business owner, or an aspiring photographer, having access to easy image editing software can streamline your workflow and enhance your visual content. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the […]
Jewelry photography demands exceptional clarity, fine detail, and accurate color reproduction. Whether you’re a professional product photographer or an artisan capturing your own work, selecting the right lens for jewelry photography is essential for showcasing your pieces at their best. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn which lenses are best, what features to look for, […]
In the world of graphic design, the AI file format is synonymous with professional vector-based artwork. Whether you’re a graphic designer, illustrator, or web developer, understanding how to work with AI files can significantly enhance your design workflow. This guide will explore everything you need to know about AI files, including their types, uses, and […]
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, the importance of captivating visuals cannot be overstated. Businesses and individuals alike are constantly seeking ways to enhance their images, making them more appealing and engaging. Enter the realm of “image manipulation services” — a sophisticated and creative solution that unlocks a myriad of possibilities for transforming ordinary visuals into […]
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Comment *
Name *
Email *
Website
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
We’re glad to offer you a free trial before you start working with us. Just upload your image and get your job done within 24 hours. Check how much you can trust us!
OR
If file size is more than 25 MB, share via cloud (Google drive or Dropbox or others)
Note: Before proceeding with the free trial, please be informed that following terms and conditions will apply: -Free trials are available for commercial purposes only, not for personal uses. -Retouching Labs can use trial photos in their portfolios for marketing purposes without additional permission.
We are here to answer your every query. Let’s discuss about your project!
Hire professional photo retouchers on an hourly, weekly, and monthly basis with the flexibility to accommodate considering any time zone.