Light is a visible form of electromagnetic energy. The visible spectrum of this radiation is the continuum of colors we see in a rainbow: violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red.

The Object

An object is any physical entity that modifies visible light by reflection, absorption, scattering and/or transmission. How an object interacts with light outside the visible spectrum may affect how the final product will appear in its environment.

The Observer

The observer is simply the person or persons observing an object. It is important to understand that every individual is unique in his or her ability to see color.

Conclusions

All three factors contribute importantly to the perception of color. Any differences between any of these three factors can prevent two people from perceiving colors identically. How the observers look at the standard and color match must be understood.