---
type: faq
title: "Why do colors in my proof look different from my original file?"
description: "Faded proof colors usually trace to very low CMYK values in your file, and RGB screens look brighter, so set higher ink percentages for rich color."
resource: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/color-ink/why-do-colors-in-my-proof-look-different-from-my-original-file
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/why-do-colors-in-my-proof-look-different-from-my-original-file
    title: "Why do colors in my proof look different from my original file?"
status: stable
---

# Why do colors in my proof look different from my original file?

Color differences on a proof usually trace back to the color values in your file rather than a printing error. If colors look faded or lighter than you expected, the CMYK percentages in your artwork are often the cause. Very low CMYK values, such as light cyan, magenta, yellow, or black percentages, print softer than they may appear on screen. Monitors show color in RGB and are often brighter than printed CMYK, so a screen preview is not an exact color match. Rich, saturated color needs higher ink percentages set in the file to print with that intensity. Review the CMYK settings on the elements that look off and set them to the intensity you actually want printed. If you need help troubleshooting, ask your printer to review the file.

Faded proof colors usually trace to very low CMYK values in your file, and RGB screens look brighter, so set higher ink percentages for rich color.

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

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