Colour / Learn by doing
White Balance explained simply
What is “White Balance”?
A setting or adjustment that makes neutral colours look neutral under the light being used.
- 01Light colour
- 02Neutral reference
- 03Natural-looking result
How do you use White Balance practically?
A small exercise
Photograph a neutral card under one light source. Compare auto white balance, a matching preset and a custom reading.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does White Balance solve a problem?
It helps prevent a white product looking orange under warm lamps or blue in shade.
What can go wrong?
Mixed light sources may need separate corrections. White balance cannot fix every colour-rendering problem.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Light colour → Neutral reference → Natural-looking result. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
White balance — Canon
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
Planning a portrait or product session? Use the glossary with our practical shoot guides, then check the studio facilities and send your confirmed requirements with an availability enquiry.