PCA environment
Standardized process of analysis that I discussed in the previous post is only one part of the answer to the question of how to determine the type of coloring correctly. The second part is a matter of conditions in which color analysis takes place.
When almost ten years ago I had my first analysis by a famous stylist in Lodz, the session took place in her colorfully arranged studio in the old town. It was late March afternoon, which meant a gloomy dusk outside and artificial lighting inside. I remember the yellow lights around the mirror in front of which I was seated and the cool and warm colored drapes hanged on both sides. During the analysis I had full makeup on my face. Mascara, eyeliner, eye shadows, as well as foundation (much too dark and too warm!) and powder.
What do you think were the chances for that stylist to get my colors right in such conditions?
Lighting
For the purpose of 12 Blueprints analysis I use full spectrum lighting, i.e. very similar to natural sunlight. Why is it important? Natural light (and full spectrum bulbs) includes full range of light waves, which allows for more accurate perception of color. This can not be achieved with regular artificial light. If you ever had bought something and then realized that it had a different color in daylight, than in the store, then you probably know what I mean. Therefore, determining the type of coloring with a regular light bulb is pointless in my opinion. Unnatural shine or yellowish glow usually appear on the face, which prevents the skin from being properly assessed. Natural daylight complemented with full-spectrum light ensures the highest probability of correct results.
Neutral background
When we have several different colors in sight, our brain perceives them in relation to each other. Each of these colors is perceived differently depending on the background on which it is seen. This effect is called simultaneous contrast, which you can read more about here.
During the analysis we want to focus on your face and its reactions to the drapes. That is why we have to eliminate unnecessary color distractions which could affect results of the analysis. Such distractions can be caused for example by colorful walls in the studio where the analysis is performed. What can help? Studio painted in neutral grey color, removing makeup for the process, wearing a neutral gray cape to cover colorful clothing and a cap to cover colored hair.
Remote or not
Have you ever ordered something online and when you opened the package you realized it did not look like you had expected based on the pictures on the seller’s website?
I do not perform color analysis from pictures or video calls. Modern systems of color analysis do not use these methods because they are not considered accurate enough. There are some factors that can not be calibrated properly remotely: neutral environment, lighting, color parameters of the materials you use for self-draping at home, etc. Besides, pictures received by an analyst are filtered by a few devices (camera, computer screen) and as a result their coloring is slightly altered in comparison to the original. The highest chances of getting the right results are when a client and an analyst meet face to face.
Where are the limits?
Does fulfillment of the above conditions guarantee 100% accuracy of the result? No, it does not guarantee it. But it significantly increases the likelihood of identifying the correct Season. However, we are still moving forward, learning new things, improving processes, and discovering new technologies. That is why I believe that how to determine the type of coloring error-free every time is a matter of not too distant future. And you?
