Change Color Model

Quickly change the color model of JPG images in reaConverter — convert between RGB, CMYK, YCbCr, YCbCrK, or GRAY in a few clicks and process entire batches at once.
Color model refers to the way colors are represented digitally for a specific output, such as screens or printers. For example, RGB is used on devices like monitors and smartphones, while CMYK is standard for printed materials like brochures and magazines.
The RGB model (Red, Green, Blue) combines light to produce a wide range of colors, ideal for digital screens. The CMYK model (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key/Black) is used in the printing industry, where colors are mixed as inks on paper.
If you send an RGB image straight to print, there's a high chance the printed result won't match what you see on your screen. To avoid that, it's best to convert the file to CMYK before printing, ensuring consistent and accurate color reproduction.
reaConverter also supports additional color models like YCbCr, the default for most JPEG images due to its efficient compression; YCbCrK, an extended version used in professional prepress workflows; and GRAY, which produces black-and-white images for archival or stylistic purposes.
Changing the color model in one or many JPEG images with reaConverter is simple and takes only seconds. With its clean interface and powerful batch processing capabilities, reaConverter makes this task easy and efficient — all offline and fully secure.
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How to Change the Color Model of JPEG Images?

1. Open Images

Load all the images in which you plan to change color model. Select them manually or add them in groups using the drag-and-drop tool or by adding entire folders.

2. Change Color Model

Go to the Menu button and then to Saving settings → Format saving settings

Here you will be able to pick the desired color model from the dropdown menu, and customize the quality of the output JPEG image.

  • YCbCr

    The default and most widely used JPEG color model. It separates brightness (luminance) from color data, making it ideal for web use and standard digital photography due to efficient compression and broad compatibility.

  • CMYK

    A color model designed for print workflows. Use this when preparing images for offset printing or any print-related production to ensure color accuracy on paper.

  • RGB

    Best for digital displays and editing. Choose this if you need color fidelity for on-screen visuals, such as web design, presentations, or digital artwork.

  • YCbCrK

    An extended variation of YCbCr that includes a black channel. Useful in specialized imaging systems or prepress workflows where deeper black separation is needed.

  • GRAY

    Converts the image to grayscale. Ideal for reducing file size or creating monochrome versions for printing, scanning, or archival purposes.

3. Save the Result

In case you don't want to apply any image editing (such as resizing, rotation, cropping or many other available features), go directly to the saving options, where you can decide on a location for your new image files. You can save them in the source folder or in a newly created one.

Finally, press the Convert button and wait no more than a few seconds for your converted images to be done.

Convert files on Your PC

The fastest and easiest way to set a new color model for your JPEG images is with reaConverter. Just a few clicks and your files are ready for screen, print, or archiving.

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Change color model with command-line tool

You can also set new color model using command-line interface, either manually or through automated scripts. reaConverter Pro includes a command-line tool called cons_rcp.exe — an advanced feature designed for professional use, available exclusively in the Pro edition.

Change color space example:

cons_rcp.exe -s "C:\Path_to\input_file.jpg" -o "C:\Path_to\output_file.jpg" -jpg_color_space 1

Manual

-jpg_color_space
  where value = color model used to create JPG files (0 - YCbCr; 1 - CMYK; 2 - RGB; 3 - YCbCrK; 4 - Gray)

You are welcome to contact our technical support when you have any questions about reaConverter.

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