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White balance is the process of adjusting colors in an image so that they appear natural and neutral, specifically by ensuring that white objects look white. It compensates for the color temperature of the light source, which can make colors appear too warm (yellow/red) or too cool (blue). By correcting these color casts, white balance ensures that all colors in a photo or video are represented accurately.

How it works

Color temperature: Light has a color temperature measured in Kelvin (K). Lower Kelvin values are warmer (like a candle), while higher values are cooler (like a clear sky).

Correction: White balance adjustments counteract the color cast of the light. For example, it would add more blue to a photo taken under a warm incandescent bulb to make whites appear neutral, or add more yellow to a photo taken under a cool fluorescent light.

Impact on all colors: Adjusting white balance doesn't just affect white; it changes the overall color tone of the entire image.

Importance: Proper white balance is crucial for capturing true-to-life colors, avoiding unnatural hues, and making subjects like skin tones look correct.