It's been a while since we explored "White Balance". "The color of an object is affected by the lighting conditions under which it is viewed. Ours eyes and brain compensate for different types of light so...we see a white object as white regardless of the lighting. Digital cameras need help to compensate for different types of light. 'White Balance' is that help." (Setting White Balance by Lindsay Silverman). Forum policy says "no direct links to articles", so please copy the links below into your browser BUT be sure to remove the ( ) or links will not work. Do NOT remove the info between the parentheses. The articles are short, give examples and explanations.

https:(//digital-photography-school).com/introduction-to-white-balance/

https:(//photographylife).com/what-is-white-balance-in-photography

For this challenge: select a subject and begin with AWB, take the same image using another WB setting - take an image with each WB setting and note differences - or not. Post 3 or 4 and identify the WB setting. CAUTION: be sure to reset your WB to your "normal" setting when done.

My first example: was using AWB at sunset at the ocean with a lot of moisture in the air. I was shocked when I saw the image. The wet air acted like a prism and my camera clearly did not see the scene as my eyes did. YES editing programs may be able to compensate WB, but the goal is to "get it right" in the camera.

Great challenge Pat, thanks for hosting. It took me a while to realize my camera could actually measure the Kelvin temperature (K) of the light source using a neutral grey card. Of course I still don't have one but Bushido said something to me at one of our Photopalooza gatherings that I have expanded on but was a great tip for me anyway. Turns out just about anything neutral in color, even the palm of you hand, that is being lit by the lighting source you are shooting in works pretty good to set a custom K value for the white balance setting in the camera. I especially put the tip to good use shooting in gymnasium lighting at.....

Pat -- Excellent new and different challenge. Tweaking settings for art rather satisfying rules is a function built in to most of us. All the pix in this challenge have demonstration a knack for experimentation to achieve unique results. 'Weirding' my images is one of my favorite pastimes.

That being said, sometimes one might want an exactly correct WB. There are many EXPENSIVE gadgets for aquiring such.

Thought I might share a couple of free ideas that I came up with in my quest to save $$$$.

This picture shows my super cheap WB setting device. It is made with a jar lid, two layers of Reynolds Parchment Paper, and a gasket to hold the paper in the lid.

Following the instructions for Custom WB for your camera, hang or hold it on the front of the lens while pointing to your light source.

An alternative is to simply cover the lens with a not-too-thick cotton handkerchief.

I've done both with excellent results. Got the shot(s) and had money left for groceries.