Standard color temperature for midday sunlight and HMI/LED daylight sources.
Definition
5600K (Kelvin) is the standard color temperature of daylight and is referred to in film production as "Daylight" or "HMI temperature." Along with 3200K, it is one of the two basic color temperatures.
Characteristics of 5600K
- Hue: Neutral white to slightly bluish
- Usage: Standard for HMI, modern LED daylight, exterior shoots
- Perception: Neutral, cool, natural
- Film Emulsion: Modern digital sensors and film emulsions are often optimized for 5600K
- Time of Day: Corresponds to midday sunlight or a slightly overcast sky
Comparison with 3200K
| Aspect | 3200K (Tungsten) | 5600K (Daylight) |
|---|---|---|
| Color Tint | Warm, orange | Neutral, white |
| Light Source | Incandescent lamps | Sun, HMI |
| Studio Use | Indoor | Outdoor/Mixed |
| Correction Needed | CTB for daylight mix | CTO for tungsten mix |
| Psychology | Intimate, evening | Natural, reality |
Practical Application
5600K is used for:
- Exterior Shoots: Real sunlight
- HMI Luminaires: Daylight equivalent in the studio
- Modern LED Panels: Many are calibrated to 5600K
- Mixed Shooting Situations: With daylight windows
- Documentary/News: Realistic imagery
Color Corrections for 5600K
- To Tungsten (3200K): Use Full CTO or 1/2 CTO
- To Cooler Temperature: Use CTB (for shade light)
- Fine-tuning: 1/4 or 1/8 CTO for subtle warming
Practical Notes
- Actual daylight varies with the time of day (cooler in the morning/evening)
- 5600K is an ideal value for standardized production
- Modern cameras have white balance settings for 5600K
- Easily achievable with the CCT modes of LED systems
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