When looking for new parquet or ceramic tiles, product photos and catalogues may at first seem reliable. However, it often turns out that at home or in the office the tone of the product appears different than it did on a computer or phone screen.
This is due to the influence of light – the tone of the product changes depending on the intensity and warmth of the light in which it is viewed.
The difference between natural and artificial light
Daylight
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Neutral light that shows the natural colour of wood or tiles most accurately.
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Sunny daylight makes tones warmer and slightly darker.
Artificial indoor lighting
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Warm light (yellowish LED, incandescent) – makes tones appear more yellow and darker.
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Cool light (bluish LED, halogen) – adds a greyish shade and makes tones cooler.
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Light intensity – strong light highlights details and texture, dim light makes the surface appear darker and calmer.
👉 The same parquet or tile can look completely different in daylight compared to how it looks in the evening under a kitchen ceiling lamp.
For this blog we have taken 3–4 photos of the same product, captured both in natural light and under artificial light of different warmth. The photos clearly show how much the tone can change depending on the lighting.
(In the picture: the same light grey Esta Parket Sandstone 1-strip parquet. From left to right – cool artificial light, medium-warm light, warm light, and on the far right natural light. Photos taken with iPhone 16 Pro Max.)
Why are samples the most reliable solution?
Photos give a first impression but can never replace real experience.
That’s why we always recommend ordering an actual product sample:
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In Estonia we send 2–3 samples completely free of charge.
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To Finland, Sweden and other European countries we also send 2–3 samples free of charge, with courier delivery cost added.
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The sample always remains with the customer – it can later be used for comparison when choosing between other materials.
With a sample you can see exactly how the tone looks in your own room’s lighting, how it matches with furniture, wall colour and the overall interior. You can also test the sample in both daylight and under different indoor lights – just as the floor or tile will actually look in use.
⚠️ It is not advisable to rely only on photos taken in showrooms, as the warmth and intensity of light in each picture may differ. The most reliable way is always to compare real tone samples.
Conclusion
The tone of parquet and ceramic tiles may differ significantly between photos and reality, because light – whether natural or artificial – strongly affects how we perceive colours.
The best decision can only be made with a real sample: it allows you to compare different products, test them in your own home lighting, and be sure that the chosen product matches perfectly with the other tones in your interior.