Can I please get final clarification on gray card and white card usage?

[jwbryson1]

I *think* I understand that both a gray card and a white card can be used for setting custom WB, and that perhaps using the gray card gives a better and more consistent result than the white card for these purposes.

I also *think* I understand that a gray card can be used for setting proper exposure under uncertain lighting conditions, but I don't think the white card is used for this purpose. :blushing:

For clarification, can somebody please answer the following questions:

1. When is it appropriate to use a gray card for setting custom WB? For setting proper exposure?

2. When is it appropriate to use a white card instead of a gray card for any purpose?

Thanks.

 

[Big Mike]

For setting a custom WB you could use a grey card, or a white card...anything that is color neutral.

For setting exposure (metering) you need to use a grey card (if you're metering to zero).
How to use a Grey Card ~ Mike Hodson Photography

 

[jwbryson1]

Thanks Mike. I knew you'd have the answer. I appreciate it.

 

[Kerbouchard]

You can use a white card for setting exposure, also. Just take the shot, look at the histogram and make sure the white spike is where you want it.

Personally, I use a calibration target for exposure and wb for critical shots. DT6020 PhotoVision 6" One-Shot Digital Mini Calibration Target with DVD, an Exposure Aid for Digital Cameras

 

[dots]

. DT6020 PhotoVision 6" One-Shot Digital Mini Calibration Target with DVD, an Exposure Aid for Digital Cameras

Thanks for the link.

 

[KmH]

I also use a white balance calibration and exposure target, made by the same people that make my display/printer/scanner/projector spectrophotometer, X-RITE;

X-Rite ColorChecker Passport

Since X-RITE launched their new i1 Display Pro colorimeter for calibrating a computer display, the price of their highly recommended (by many photo print labs) i1 Display 2 has been reduced in price:

X-Rite i1Display 2 Color Calibrator for LCD, CRT, and Laptop Displays

Here is the new i1 Display Pro:
Xrite i1Display Pro