💡 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

01. Can Pantone Colors Be Extracted from Scanned Files?

No. Pantone colors cannot be reliably extracted from scanned or rasterized artwork files.

Why?

Scanning converts vector artwork into pixels, removing all underlying object and color data.
Colors become approximate blends, causing the original spot color metadata to be lost.

As a result, a specific Pantone color (for example, Pantone 485 C) may appear as a generic RGB red, with no link to the original Pantone library.

02. Why Raster Colors Can’t Be Trusted?

Raster or scanned images use RGB or embedded CMYK approximations, not true spot inks. As a result, the colors displayed in rasterized files cannot be considered accurate for print or proofing purposes.

Key Reasons

Scanner dependency: The colors captured depend heavily on the scanner’s settings, including brightness, contrast, and resolution.
Device variability: Different scanners, monitors, and cameras interpret the same color differently due to calibration inconsistencies.
Environmental influence: Factors such as light source, paper texture, and surface finish can alter how colors are perceived.
Loss of metadata: During rasterization or flattening, spot color information (such as Pantone references) is permanently lost.

Best Practice

Scanned or raster colors should never be used as production references.
For accurate and repeatable results, always rely on:

Standardized color guides (e.g., Pantone swatches)
Color-calibrated devices and PDF/X-compliant vector files.

03. Is CMYK and Pantone Are Vector-Based Color Models?

Both CMYK and Pantone are vector-based color models, meaning they are applied to vector shapes and text within artwork files rather than raster images.

Key Details

Applied to vector elements: CMYK and Pantone colors are assigned to vector-based objects such as shapes, lines, and text — not to pixels.
Metadata retention: These color models preserve color metadata, enabling accurate color detection, separation, and proofing during analysis.
Device independence: Vector color data is device-independent, ensuring consistent and predictable output across prepress tools, printers, and substrates.