Quality of Colour Rendering in Photographic Scenes Illuminated by Light Sources with Light-Shaping Attachments

Abstract

In both commercial and scientific photography, achieving accurate colour reproduction is essential. This study investigates the influence of light-shaping attachments on colour rendering indices (CRIs) under various lighting conditions. Through 180 measurements of different lighting combinations, statistical analysis reveals significant interactions between light sources, modifiers, and CRI test colour samples (TCS). Snoots consistently produce superior CRIs, while interactions between light sources and other light modifiers vary, affecting CRIs differently based on spectral distributions and material properties of the modifiers. Combining light sources and modifiers from the same manufacturer is found to enhance colour accuracy. These findings offer valuable insights for photographers, highlighting the importance of understanding light properties and light-shaping attachment effects on colour rendition. By informing best practices, this research contributes to achieving high-quality photographs across commercial and scientific domains, ensuring both accurate data representation and visually appealing results.