Grey card question

[mc1979]

I was reading a thread yesterday on grey cards and a link was provided for them. I was wondering if a cheap way to go would be to go to paint store and choose a neutral grey sample card( not that what I saw was expensive anyway, but free is free..LOL). It's been suggested just a blank white sheet of paper could also be used, but could that work in every scenario?

 

[tirediron]

A middle grey paint sample will probably be close enough for most things, but unless you tape a lot of them together, it won't be large enough to be effective. A sheet of white paper will be slimilarily close, but not totally accurate. As all greys are not the same grey, all whites are not the same white. Don't forget that grey cards are used primarily for setting exposure, while white cards are for setting the white point / WB in post.

 

[pixilstudio]

i agree. either get the proper card or... in a pinch the back of your hand or a blue sky away from the sun will get you close as well. and yes white is strictly for WB

 

[KmH]

A good gray card is made so it only reflects 18% of the light that hits it, as well as being a specific shade of gray.

The trouble with 'white' paper, is that most 'white' paper isn't actually white.

This is a good kit, and is one of the best gray cards made: GENUINE WhiBal G7 Certified Neutral White Balance Card - Pocket Kit (2.1"x3.3")

If you want to save $10, don't get the kit, just get the card: GENUINE WhiBal G7 Certified Neutral White Balance Card - Pocket Card (2.1"x3.35")

 

[mc1979]

Thanks for the info! Keith, thanks for the link.