Monitor Calibration for Beginners

[suse]

Hi

Could someone explain the basics of monitor calibration...!?

I've just started out in digital, and am not sure what this does technically speaking.

I have no idea where to start doing this. I have a 20d and PS CS btw. Is there a decent cheap software package to do it with?

Many thanks
Suse

[Pekka]

PS CS has Adobe Gamma which is a simple software calibration tool, but "real" calibration is done only with ICC profiling by packages like Spyder 2. See http://www.drycreekphoto.com/Learn/monitor_calibration_tools.htm#results

Most important starting point, if you do not have a calibrator, is setting black point, see http://www.aim-dtp.net/aim/calibration/blackpoint/crt_brightness_and_contrast.htm and setting gamma (use Adobe Gamma).

Then there are visual aids like http://www.ashtonlamont.co.uk/tech-resources/photodisc/photodisc-v2.htm