CMYK vs RYB vs RGB: Primary Colors & Primary Pigments
The world of colors is fascinating and diverse, with various models and theories designed for different purposes. Among the most widely recognized are CMYK, RYB, and RGB. Each system has unique applications and is based on distinct scientific and artistic principles. This article explores the differences between these color systems, their uses, and the distinction between primary colors and primary pigments.
What Is Primary In Terms Of Colors & Pigments?
The term ‘primary’ in the context of colors and pigments simply means that a particular color/pigment which is labelled as primary can not be created by mixing any other colors/pigments. But using those primaries, we can create all other colors/pigments. In regular conversations, many times people end up referring to the primary pigments as the primary colors. Although both are far different from each other.
- Primary Colors (Light): In RGB, the primary colors are red, green, and blue, forming the foundation of additive color mixing for light-based systems, photons of light that is.
- Primary Pigments (Physical pigments): In RYB and CMYK, the primary pigments are the base colors used to mix and create all other colored-pigments. For professional usage and for printing, the CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow and key black) are the primaries. Whereas for traditional painting, the RYB (red, yellow, and blue) are the primaries.
Mixing the colors red and green will make yellow but mixing the colored pigments red and green will not make yellow, it will result in some shade of medium to dark brown. Confused a bit? Fret not. In this article, we will clarify it all.
RGB: The Light-Based Color Model
The RGB color model is used in digital displays and lighting systems. It stands for Red, Green, and Blue, the three primary colors of light. By combining these colors at different intensities, we can obtain/create all other colors. For example:
- Red + Green = Yellow
- Red + Blue = Magenta
- Green + Blue = Cyan
- Red + Green + Blue = White
RGB is an additive model, starting with black (absence of light) and adding colors to produce lighter shades. This makes it ideal for devices that emit light, such as LEDs, TV, monitors, smartphones, etc.
CMYK: The Print-Based Color Pigment Model
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). In practical applications you will even see CYMK + white pigment being used. CYMK is a subtractive model used in printing. Unlike RGB, the CMYK begins with white (the color of blank paper) and then subtracts light using colored inks/pigments to create darker tones. For example:
- Cyan + Magenta = Blue
- Cyan + Yellow = Green
- Magenta + Yellow = Red
- Cyan + Magenta + Yellow + Key = Deep Black
CMYK as the primary pigment is perfect for professional use especially in physical media such as brochures, posters, packaging & even the makeup industry.
RYB: The Traditional Art Model
The RYB (Red, Yellow, Blue) model is the foundation of traditional/ old school color (pigment) theory, commonly used in art & fashion. While less scientifically precise, it’s practical for mixing paints. Artists mix these primary pigments to create a broad range of colors. For instance:
- Red + Yellow = Orange
- Yellow + Blue = Green
- Blue + Red = Purple
- Red + Yellow + Blue = Brown/Neutral Tones
This model simplifies color mixing, making it accessible for beginners in painting and fine arts.
Key Differences:
- RGB: Additive model for digital screens and lighting; starts with black and adds light to create colors.
- CMYK: Subtractive model for printing; starts with white paper and uses pigments to subtract light, creating colors.
- RYB: Subtractive model for traditional art, focusing on intuitive pigment mixing for beginners.
Conclusion
In simple words, RGB is primary color & CYMK is primary pigment. Understanding the differences between CMYK, RYB, and RGB is essential for anyone working with colors, whether digitally or physically. Each system has its strengths and applications, and knowing when to use them can greatly enhance the quality of digital or physical art that we produce.
