---
type: faq
title: "How accurate is the color reproduction for photography prints and postcards?"
description: "Postcard color stays accurate when files are CMYK, not RGB, at 300 DPI, and a physical proof before the full run is best for photography-heavy work."
resource: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/color-ink/how-accurate-is-the-color-reproduction-for-photography-prints-and-postcards
tags: ["Printing Terms Glossary", "faq"]
generated:
  by: "process:4over4-mapp-build"
  at: 2026-10-20T21:01:19.542Z
timestamp: 2026-10-20T21:01:19.542Z
sources:
  - resource: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/color-ink/how-accurate-is-the-color-reproduction-for-photography-prints-and-postcards
    title: "How accurate is the color reproduction for photography prints and postcards?"
status: stable
---

# How accurate is the color reproduction for photography prints and postcards?

Color reproduction on quality postcard printing is accurate when the files are prepared correctly. Professional presses use high-definition CMYK printing with strict color calibration, but the setup on your end matters just as much. Submit files in CMYK color mode, not RGB, so on-screen colors translate to print. Use 300 DPI resolution for sharp images and clean gradients. For exact color matching on photography-heavy work, request a physical proof before the full run. Getting these three things right is what separates a print that matches your screen from one that shifts on paper.

Postcard color stays accurate when files are CMYK, not RGB, at 300 DPI, and a physical proof before the full run is best for photography-heavy work.

[Order postcards](https://www.4over4.com/product/postcards)

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