In degrees of Kelvin (°K), color temperature is a way to describe the hues of light. It is often either warm (yellowish) or cool (bluish).
The simplest approach to remember which color is which is to keep in mind that light is whiter the higher the number (of kelvin).
Additionally, you could come across lights that describe the color temperature rather than listing it in K (numbers). This is perplexing because most people wouldn't understand the distinction between "Daylight" and "Cool white." Ask for help if you're unsure, as making the wrong decision could result in undesirable lighting.
Mood and color temperature
Lighting color temperature can be utilized to determine and/or improve a mood, just like paint color can help define the general mood of a space. Warmer color temperature lighting (in the 2700–3200K range) serves to portray a glow-of-the-fire type lighting that may be linked with a relaxing and tranquil ambience if the location is an intimate restaurant or a pleasant workplace setting. On the other hand, cooler colour temperature lighting (in the 5500–6000K range) helps to convey a sunny daylight type lighting that may be associated with pleasant outdoor conditions if a bright and airy environment is the goal, as in a cafeteria, classroom, lobby, general offices, and some retail stores.
