Color concept
Color Temperature
A warm-cool description used for light sources, photography, interiors, and visual mood.
Core concept Light and perception future
What it is
Color temperature describes the warm or cool character of light, often measured in kelvin. Lower values appear warmer and more orange; higher values appear cooler and more blue.
Basics
- Candlelight and tungsten light feel warm; overcast daylight can feel cool.
- Camera white balance uses color temperature to interpret scenes.
- Warm/cool language can describe both light sources and color palettes, but the meanings are not identical.
Notes for later expansion
- Later expansion should distinguish technical kelvin temperature from artistic warm/cool color language.