Why do image colors look different between apps?

Color handling can differ between applications, files and displays. Start by checking the image's color profile and the export path rather than adjusting the colors by eye.

Check the exported file

1. Compare the same file in the actual receiving app.
2. Check whether the exported copy includes the intended color profile.
3. If the recipient requires a color profile, convert the image to that profile. Assigning a profile changes how colors are interpreted; it does not convert them.
4. Check for HDR-to-SDR handling or other changes when the source contains HDR content.

Assign and convert do different jobs

Assigning a profile changes how existing color values are interpreted. Converting changes values to target a different color space. The wrong operation can change the appearance.

A browser illustration cannot calibrate a display or prove that a print will match it. Use the color profile requested by the app or print provider.

Related guides

• Which image format should you send for printing?
• What is an AVIF file?
• HEIC and HEIF: what is the difference?

Sources

• Adobe: Change color profiles
• International Color Consortium: Color management FAQ
• Alliance for Open Media: AV1 Image File Format