Calibrite
ColorChecker 3-Step Grayscale
Best lighting reference tool for professional photographers and videographers.
This scientifically engineered tool provides a precise, uniform surface for accurate lighting measurement. It reflects equal amounts of light across the entire color spectrum, featuring standard black, 18% gray mid tone, and white reference patches. This versatile target is essential for videographers and digital or analog shooters needing to accurately assess lighting conditions across diverse environments. It serves as a fundamental reference for achieving consistent color balance in any setup, supporting both digital and analog workflows.
$89.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 29
Best Light Meter Accessories
Price vs Category Average
-5%
Below average
Product Type
Color Reference Target
/ Color Reference Target
Who it's for
- Photographers needing consistent exposure and neutral white balance
- Editors looking to speed up their color correction workflow
- Field shooters requiring reliable gear for frequent travel
Who should skip it
- Careless users who struggle with maintaining delicate equipment
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking a basic, non-certified gray card
- Professionals requiring advanced camera profiling and complex color correction
Performance breakdown
Spectral Neutrality
Reflects light evenly across the spectrum for true-to-life color accuracy.
Build Durability
Rugged plastic construction withstands the rigors of frequent on-location shoots.
Exposure Precision
Provides a reliable reference point for nailing exposure in any environment.
Workflow Integration
Seamlessly bridges the gap between digital sensors and analog film stocks.
Portability
Compact design fits easily into any camera bag for quick access.
Ease of Use
Simple three-patch layout makes lighting calibration intuitive for all skill levels.
Key Specs
Product Type
Color Reference Target
Calibration Targets
Black, 18% Gray Mid Tone, White
Patch Count Supported
3
Model Number
CCGS
Manufacturer
Calibrite
Recommended Use
Measuring lighting conditions for videographers, digital, and analog shooters
Device Category
Color Calibration Tool
Material
Plastic
Know before you buy
The 18% gray patch acts as a neutral reference point for your camera's light meter. By measuring this patch, you can ensure your exposure settings are balanced correctly, preventing highlights from blowing out or shadows from losing detail.
Yes, it is designed for both workflows. Whether you are setting a custom white balance on a digital sensor or calibrating your light meter for film stock, the neutral patches provide a consistent reference in any lighting environment.
A surface that reflects light equally across the spectrum is considered 'spectrally neutral.' This ensures that the target does not introduce any color casts, allowing you to achieve accurate color balance and consistent results in post-production.
The target is constructed from durable plastic, making it robust enough for regular use in various shooting environments. While it is a precision tool, it is designed to withstand the rigors of on-location production work.
While you don't always need all three, using them together provides the most comprehensive data. The white patch helps with highlight clipping, the black patch assists with shadow detail, and the 18% gray patch is essential for accurate mid-tone exposure.
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