Why Do Brick Tile Blends Look Different in Photos?

It’s not uncommon to browse through an online catalog or see a photo in a design magazine and fall in love with a particular brick tile blend, only to feel surprised when the product in your hands doesn’t quite match the photo. This can be a cause of confusion and disappointment, but there are several reasons behind this difference. Let’s explore these reasons and how you can navigate them when choosing brick tiles.

Lighting Conditions

One of the primary reasons why brick tile blends can look different in photos is due to the lighting conditions when the picture was taken. Professional photographers often use artificial lighting to emphasize the texture and color of the brick tiles. These lights can sometimes distort the true colors and even the texture of the tiles. Furthermore, the tiles may look different under the natural light in your home or workplace.

Camera Settings and Photo Editing

The type of camera used, its settings, and subsequent photo editing can all affect the way brick tiles look in photographs. Cameras can sometimes fail to accurately capture the depth and nuances of color in the brick tiles. Additionally, photo editing tools are often used to enhance images for promotional purposes, which can further alter the appearance of the brick tile blends.

Variation in Batches

Brick tiles, especially those made from natural clay, often have batch-to-batch variations due to differences in raw material, slight alterations in the manufacturing process, or even changes in the temperature and humidity on the day they were produced. This can result in variations in color, texture, and finish from the batch shown in the photograph to the one you purchase.

Viewing Devices

The device on which you view the brick tile images can also affect the perceived colors and textures. Different screens have different color calibrations, which means the same image can look different on a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, or a desktop monitor.

How to Ensure You’re Choosing the Right Brick Tile Blend

Given these factors, what can you do to make sure you get the brick tile blend you want? Here are some tips:

Request a Sample

If possible, always order a physical sample before making a purchase. This will allow you to see and feel the product in person, ensuring it meets your expectations in terms of color, texture, and quality.

View the Tiles Under Different Lighting Conditions

Examine the brick tile sample under various lighting conditions – natural light, artificial light, and the specific lighting conditions where they will be installed. This can give you a better idea of how they will look once installed.

Ask About Batch Consistency

Before buying, ask the retailer about their quality control measures to ensure consistency between batches. Some companies can provide guarantees or allow you to buy from a single batch to ensure consistency.

Conclusion

While it can be frustrating to find that the brick tile blends look different in photos, understanding the reasons behind this can help you make a more informed decision. By requesting a sample, examining the tiles under different lighting, and asking about batch consistency, you can ensure that the brick tiles you choose meet your design needs.

FAQs

1. Why do brick tiles look different in photos? The difference is often due to lighting conditions, camera settings, batch variations, and the device used to view the photos.
2. How can I ensure I choose the right brick tile blend? You can request a physical sample, view the tiles under different lighting conditions, and inquire about batch consistency.
3. Does the type of device I use to view brick tiles affect how they look? Yes, different screens have different color calibrations, which can alter the perceived colors and textures of the tiles.
4. Do brick tile colors vary from batch to batch? Yes, especially with tiles made from natural clay. Differences in raw materials and conditions during manufacturing can lead to variations.
5. Can I rely solely on photos when choosing brick tiles? While photos can give you a good idea, it’s always best to see and feel the product in person if possible.