Monitors For Photography: Choosing The Right Display

When it comes to choosing a monitor for photography, there are several factors to consider. The size of the monitor, the resolution, the screen technology, the colour accuracy, and the budget are all important aspects that can impact the quality of the images you're editing.

While a bigger screen may seem like the obvious choice, it's important to also consider the resolution. A large LCD monitor with a low resolution won't allow you to see the full detail of your images. On the other hand, a small monitor with a high resolution can be impractical. The ideal combination is a 27-inch screen with a QHD resolution or a 32-inch screen with a 4K resolution.

In terms of screen technology, IPS panels offer the best colour accuracy and viewing angles, making them the optimal choice for photo editing. VA panels are a close second, offering better colour accuracy than TN panels.

Colour accuracy is crucial when editing photos, as you want to ensure that the colours on your monitor accurately represent the colours in your images. Look for monitors that support both the sRGB and Adobe RGB colour spaces, as these are the most commonly used colour spaces for digital devices and printing.

Lastly, consider your budget. Monitors with higher resolutions, better colour accuracy, and more advanced features will generally be more expensive. However, it's possible to find good budget options that offer decent colour accuracy and resolution without breaking the bank.

With these factors in mind, you can now start your search for the perfect monitor to elevate your photography game!

Resolution and screen size

The resolution of a monitor refers to the number of pixels it can display, typically measured as the number of pixels across the screen (the width) and the number of pixels from top to bottom (the height). The higher the resolution, the more pixels the monitor can display, resulting in sharper and more detailed images. For photography, a high resolution is important to ensure that you can see the fine details in your photos and make precise edits.

When it comes to screen size, larger screens generally provide a more immersive viewing experience and can also offer more screen real estate for your editing tools and palettes. However, it's important to consider the resolution in conjunction with the screen size. A lower-resolution image on a large screen may appear pixelated or blurry, while a high-resolution image on a small screen may be difficult to see clearly.

For photography, a good combination is a 27-inch screen with a 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels). This provides a balance between screen size and resolution, ensuring that you have enough space to work while still maintaining a high level of detail and sharpness in your images.

If you're looking for an even larger screen, you may consider a 32-inch monitor with a 4K resolution. This can provide an even more immersive experience and additional screen real estate, but keep in mind that you may need to adjust your viewing distance or scale up the image to ensure that everything remains legible.

On the other hand, if you're limited on space or prefer a more compact setup, you could opt for a 24-inch monitor with a Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels). While this will result in a lower pixel density, it can still provide a suitable option for photo editing, especially if you're working with a smaller budget.

Ultimately, the ideal resolution and screen size for photography depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Consider the available space on your desk, the level of detail you require in your photos, and the overall viewing experience you desire. By balancing these factors, you can choose a monitor that delivers the perfect combination of resolution and screen size for your photography workflow.

Colour accuracy

When evaluating monitors for photography, you should prioritise those with a Delta E of less than 2, and ideally less than 1, for the specific colour spaces that you will be using. For example, if you are purely a photographer or photo editor, you can ignore the DCI-P3 results and focus on sRGB and Adobe RGB.

SRGB is the standard colour space for the web and many other applications, so if your images are to be posted online, a monitor that displays the full sRGB colour spectrum is fine. However, Adobe RGB has a wider range of colours and greater saturation, which can be particularly relevant for printing.

If you are unsure, it is generally recommended to stick with sRGB, as without full end-to-end support for Adobe RGB, the result can be duller colours.

In addition to colour accuracy, you should also consider the bit depth of the monitor, which refers to the range or depth of colours it can display. A 10-bit display will offer over a billion colours, whereas an 8-bit display will offer 16.7 million. Many monitors that claim 10-bit colour support do not do so natively, instead using a technique called dithering to simulate 10-bit colour.

Finally, you should also consider the monitor's look-up table (LUT), which maps the video input signal to the capabilities of the screen's LCD panel. For image editing, a 10-bit LUT and an 8-bit panel would be a minimum ideal specification, but 12-bit and 14-bit LUTs will give smoother tonal transitions.

Budget

When it comes to monitors for photo editing, you can get good options on a budget. Here are some of the best budget monitors for photo editing:

ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV

With a 27-inch screen and a resolution above Full HD but below 4K, the ProArt PA278QV is a good option for those on a budget. It has excellent colour reproduction and the ergonomics of the monitor are well-designed, allowing for rotation and tilt adjustments. It also has a large number of ports, including DisplayPort, HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, and DVI. The non-standard resolution and grainy anti-glare coating are minor drawbacks, but overall, it's a fantastic price for a high-quality 27" monitor.

Dell Ultrasharp U2417H 24-inch Infinity Edge Monitor

The Dell Ultrasharp is a good value for money option and is well-liked by photographers looking for a budget model. It offers good colour reproduction and accuracy and has no issues with backlight bleeding. The monitor includes plenty of ports, including USB 3.0, and has a well-laid-out and powerful on-screen menu. The only downside is that darker colours tend to appear brighter than they should.

BenQ GW2780 27-inch Frameless IPS Monitor

The BenQ GW2780 is a great option if you're on a strict budget. It has a 27-inch screen and covers 99% of the sRGB gamut, delivering pretty much perfect colour accuracy for photo editing at this price point. The display falls short in blacks and darker greys, with some banding present, but it makes up for it with minimal IPS glow and no backlight bleeding. The basic on-screen menus and lack of adjustability in the stand are other minor drawbacks.

Acer SB220Q bi 21.5-inch Full HD

If you're looking for an even more affordable option, the Acer SB220Q bi is a great choice. With a screen size of 21.5 inches and a full HD resolution, it delivers very good colour reproduction at a price below $100. The pixel density is high, making photos look sharp and clear. The colour reproduction of 93% of the sRGB gamut is impressive for the price, but keep in mind that you'll need to calibrate the monitor yourself as it won't be colour-calibrated at the factory.

LG 27UL500 27-inch IPS Monitor

The LG 27UL500 is an excellent choice for photo editing on a budget. With a 27-inch 4K resolution, it delivers sharp and clear images with vibrant and bold colours. The monitor has excellent colour accuracy and includes a joystick to access detailed and straightforward internal menus. It also has features like Radeon's FreeSync, which is rarely seen on budget monitors. All of this comes at a fantastic price of under $350.

Philips 278E1A 27-inch Frameless Monitor

The Philips 278E1A is another excellent option if you're primarily concerned about price. At under $250, it offers a 27-inch 4K resolution and includes a 4-year warranty. It has the widest quoted sRGB range of any monitor in this price range, at 109%, approaching the colours available in the Adobe RGB gamut. While the colour consistency and accuracy across the panel are not as good as the LG 27UL500, it's still a great choice for most home users, especially considering the price.

Ports

When it comes to ports, there are a few things you'll want to consider when choosing a monitor for photography. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

• USB-C Connectivity: USB-C has become almost expected in monitors today. It offers convenient connectivity and can support power delivery, allowing you to power your laptop or other devices directly from the monitor. Look for monitors with USB-C ports that support power delivery of at least 65W.
• DisplayPort and HDMI: In addition to USB-C, you'll want to ensure that your monitor has other standard ports such as DisplayPort and HDMI. These ports are essential for connecting your monitor to your computer, and they also allow you to connect multiple devices. Some monitors even offer dual DisplayPort connectors, enabling you to daisy-chain multiple monitors together.
• USB Hub: A monitor with a built-in USB hub can be extremely useful, especially if you have multiple devices that need to be connected. Look for monitors with at least a few USB-A ports, as well as a USB-C port if possible. This will allow you to connect peripherals like keyboards, mice, and external storage devices easily.
• Other Ports: Depending on your specific needs, you may also want to consider monitors with additional ports such as audio in/out, Ethernet, or even Thunderbolt. These can be useful for connecting headphones, networking, or taking advantage of high-speed data transfer rates.
• KVM Switch: Some monitors come with a built-in KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) switch, which allows you to control multiple devices from a single keyboard and mouse. This can be extremely useful if you work with multiple computers or need to switch between different sources frequently.

When choosing a monitor for photography, consider your workflow and the devices you'll be connecting to the monitor. Ensure that the monitor has the right mix of ports and connectivity options to support your setup. While USB-C has become a standard, don't underestimate the importance of other ports like DisplayPort, HDMI, and the good old USB-A. Additionally, features like a KVM switch and a built-in USB hub can greatly enhance your productivity and workflow.

Curved vs flat

When considering a new monitor for photography, one of the first questions you may ask yourself is whether to go for a curved or flat screen. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Curved monitors offer a more immersive experience, providing a wider field of view that can make you feel more 'wrapped up' in your work. This can be particularly beneficial for photographers, as it allows you to view images and edits in a more true-to-life context. The curved design can also help to reduce glare and reflections, providing a more consistent viewing experience in different lighting conditions. Additionally, some people find that the curved design is more comfortable for extended periods, as it can reduce eye strain and fatigue.

On the other hand, flat monitors provide a more traditional viewing experience, which some people prefer for its consistency and familiarity. They are generally more versatile, as they can be comfortably used for a wide range of tasks beyond photography, such as web browsing or document work. Flat screens also tend to be more affordable, and they often have narrower bezels, which can be advantageous if you plan to use multiple monitors side by side.

Another consideration is the type of photography you specialise in. For example, if you primarily work with portraits or other subjects that are centred in the frame, a curved monitor can provide a more engaging view that draws you into the image. For landscape photography, a flat monitor may be preferable, as it can offer a more natural representation of the horizon and surroundings.

Ultimately, the decision between a curved or flat monitor for photography depends on personal preferences and specific workflow needs. Both options have strengths and weaknesses, so consider these advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. Choosing the right monitor will ensure you have an excellent tool for displaying and editing your photographs.

Frequently asked questions