3

I'm using Lightroom 4, trying to adjust white balance using the eyedropper by the Temp slider, but I'm not sure where in the image to click to get the right balance. I did not use a grey card, so do I just click an area where RGB values are equal? I tried doing that but it seems hit or miss, and it's tough to just find a spot where RGB %'s are equal. Gotta be an easier way...

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
8

The correct way to use the white balance dropper is to click on an area that should be a neutral grey, not one that's already grey. So ignore the RGB percentages and look for a something grey in the photo: maybe a stone, a metal surface, some clothing or a shaded white area. (If the white balance is off it won't look grey yet - it might be a bit too yellow or blue, for example - but watch what happens when you click it with the dropper.)

Failing that, other ways to correct the white balance are to choose an appropriate preset from the dropdown list, or tweak the Temperature and Tint sliders by hand. (I always do the latter now - but it depends on how good an eye for colour you have, and it'll help if your monitor is correctly calibrated.)

Improve this answer
2
  • That's the hard part, trying to pick an area that should be grey. I'll give it a shot, thx.
    – SAFX
    Nov 4, 2012 at 0:44
  • 1
    Sometimes you only need a few pixels of 'grey' to get a good result with the eyedropper. I've had good luck on a few people shots clicking on a shadowed part of a shirt pattern that I know is white.
    – AngerClown
    Nov 4, 2012 at 3:23

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.