Abstract

In digital photography (DP), especially with regard to stop motion animation in which sequences of still photographs are processed, realization of a full color spectrum is one of the most essential attributes that determines the aesthetics and meticulous color perception to audience. However, due to the implementation of different hardware, software and workflows among digital photographers and graphic designers, many file formats and image compressions are adapted in practice. When designers need to convert a sequence into a single video file for easy playback, like the Flash video’s .FLV, Apple’s .QT, Microsoft’s .AVI or the open .MPG, discrepancy between image conversion and color space representation occurs. This paper attempts to study and understand the color space models and image reproduction issues. Experiments were conducted to examine the divergence of color space performance during RAW image’s reproduction through different hardware, software and conversion methods. Studio lighting setup was applied, and both Nikon and Canon digital cameras were used to shoot a series of monotone photographs. Color depth was encountered as one of the most significant issues causing diversity of color gamut presentation under a continuum manner. Although file conversion could not be avoided, accustomed workflow could compensate the loss of color accuracy, which is particularly important in this high-definition era. Color perception and visual impact were designed to maximize the visible spectrum and its tonal expression for all designers and animators.