Photography accessory for accurate exposure control and consistent colour reproduction, suitable for DSLR, film and video. The simple, pocket-sized kit ChromLives White Balance Card Set supplies 18% grey, white and black references so crews and solo shooters can standardise colour across shoots. Will this compact calibration kit speed up grading and reduce guesswork on set?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Image Quality: Reliable reference tones for exposure and colour matching across mixed lighting
- • Best for: Photographers and videographers who need repeatable colour and faster post-production
- • Not ideal for: Users who require full-size background or diffusion panels for lighting control
Includes three reference cards: white, 18% grey and black. Compact format fits a pocket and includes a clip release lanyard for quick access on set.
Accurate exposure control – thanks to the 18% neutral grey reference
An 18% grey card presents a mid-tone that many camera metering systems expect, allowing meters to measure and set exposure around a standard neutral value. Using the grey reference produces consistent exposure decisions even in complex or mixed lighting.
Faster, more reliable exposure readings reduce the need for repeated test shots, saving time during shoots and preventing blown highlights or blocked shadows.
Consistent colour balance – with a dedicated white reference
A neutral white card provides a reference point for white balance adjustments, whether setting an in-camera preset or correcting footage in post. The white surface can also act as a modest reflector to fill shadows, though with limited effect compared with purpose-built reflectors.
Cleaner, truer colours across scenes make grading simpler and ensure colours match between cameras and takes.
Control of stray light and contrast – using the black card
A black card absorbs or blocks unwanted light, helping to reduce stray illumination and control contrast ratios on set. Placing the black reference can prevent flare and help define shadow edges where needed.
Improved contrast control and reduced flare help preserve detail in darker areas and make lighting adjustments more predictable.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for ChromLives White Balance Card Set
- Pocket-sized 5x4 inches - Easy to carry and quick to deploy on location
- Three-card kit - Provides grey, white and black references for full tonal control
- Clip release lanyard - Keeps references at hand for fast, repeatable calibration
- Works with any digital camera - Simplifies matching footage from DSLRs, video cameras and film scanners
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Photography/White balance and exposure reference
- Size: 5 x 4 inches (medium card)
- Grey reference: 18% neutral grey for exposure metering
- White reference: White card for defining white balance
- Black reference: Black card to block stray light and control contrast
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the grey card help with exposure?
A: The 18% grey card gives a neutral mid-tone that camera metering systems use to set exposure, allowing more consistent meter readings in mixed or complex lighting.
Q: Can the white card set my white balance?
A: The white reference is used to define white balance and can be used as a small reflector, though the reflecting effect is limited compared with dedicated reflectors.
Q: Is the kit easy to carry on shoots?
A: Yes, the compact 5x4 inch cards are pocket-sized and include a clip release lanyard for quick access on location.
🏆 Our Verdict
The ChromLives White Balance Card Set suits photographers and videographers who need reliable, repeatable exposure and colour references on location. The trio of 18% grey, white and black cards simplifies metering, white balance and stray light control for faster shoots and easier grading. A compact, durable kit that repays itself through saved time and consistent results across projects.
