CMY color model

CMY color model is a color model, used in color printing. CMY refers to the three inks used in printing: cyan, magenta, and yellow.

The CMY model is subtractive. It means that it subtracts or masks colors from white background of the paper. The ink reduces the reflected light. White light minus red leaves cyan, white light minus green leaves magenta, and white light minus blue leaves yellow.

White is the natural color of the paper, while (nearly) black is made by a full combination of colored inks. 


Unlike the CMYK color model, it does not use additional black ink, which is more effective and economical for reproducing dark hues.

CMY color is typically used in older, portable, or inexpensive printers. Most recent color desktop or floor-standing printers use the CMYK color model.

 Related pages 
 CMYK color model
 RGB color model
 Color model

 References 

 Other websites 

XCmyk – CMYK to RGB Calculator with source code
 Color Space Fundamentals– animated illustration of RGB vs. CMYK

Category:Color models
Category:Printing
Category:Photography