What does a color profile in Photoshop define?

A color profile in Photoshop defines how colors are represented in an image. It acts as a set of data that describes the range of colors that can be displayed or printed by different devices, such as monitors, printers, or cameras. This ensures that when you create or edit an image, the colors you intend to use are consistent and accurate across various devices.

By utilizing the right color profile, it helps maintain the integrity of the color in your work regardless of the medium it's being viewed or printed on. This is particularly important in projects where color accuracy is crucial, such as in professional photography or graphic design.

Understanding the representation of colors is fundamental in achieving the desired visual outcome since a mismatch in color profiles can lead to unexpected results in different environments or devices.