How to Fix Blue Color Cast on Canon PIXMA TS6351 Photo Prints (ICC Profile & Cyan Over-Saturation Issue)

Question:
I'm using a Canon PIXMA TS6351 mainly for photo printing, but my prints are coming out with too much blue. I ran a CMYK test page and noticed that the cyan (blue) bar jumps to full intensity starting around 60%. I'm currently using the Canon IJ 2015 ICC profile. What could be causing this, and how can I fix it?

Answer:

Now, let's break down what's happening with your Canon PIXMA TS6351.

From your description, the excessive blue cast and the cyan channel jumping to 100% intensity around 60% strongly suggest a color management mismatch, rather than a straightforward hardware failure.

1. ICC Profile Mismatch (Most Likely Cause)

Even though you're using the Canon IJ 2015 ICC profile, it may not be properly matched to your exact combination of paper, ink, and driver settings. ICC profiles are very specific-if any variable changes (paper type, third-party ink, or even driver settings), the profile can produce inaccurate color output.

When cyan ramps incorrectly (like going from 60% straight to 100%), it usually means:

• The ICC profile is overcompensating for cyan

• Or the printer driver is also applying color adjustments, causing a double correction

2. Double Color Management Conflict

One of the most common issues is double color management, where both:

• Your editing software (like Photoshop, Lightroom, etc.)

• AND the printer driver

are trying to control color at the same time.

This can lead to exaggerated tones-especially in cyan and magenta.

Fix:

• If your software manages color → disable color correction in the printer driver

• If the printer manages color → disable color management in your software
  Never allow both to manage color simultaneously

3. Paper Type & Profile Alignment

Make sure:

• The ICC profile matches your exact paper type

• The printer driver is set to the same paper setting the profile was built for

Using glossy profile on matte paper (or vice versa) can easily cause strong color shifts, including blue dominance.

4. Try Alternative or Custom ICC Profiles

If you want accurate photo reproduction (especially neutral grays and skin tones), consider:

• Testing a different Canon profile designed for your specific paper

• Or creating a custom ICC profile (best option for precision work)

Custom profiling is especially helpful if you're using:

• Third-party inks

• Non-Canon papers

5. Possible Printhead Behavior (Less Common, but Important)

There is also a lesser-known possibility related to the printhead itself.

Sometimes, certain nozzle groups may fire at incorrect intensity levels. In Epson printers, this is often compensated through internal calibration tied to the printhead ID. When a new printhead is installed, the system adjusts output behavior accordingly.

However, Canon does not use the same compensation system. This means:

• If a printhead has slight manufacturing deviations

• It may output certain colors (like cyan) too strongly

Canon may discard defective units during quality control, but in rare cases, subtle inconsistencies can still reach end users.

If this is the case, you might also notice:

• Color inconsistency across gradients

• Banding or uneven saturation in specific colors

What You Should Try First

1. Disable color management either in software or printer (not both)

2. Confirm correct ICC profile + matching paper settings

3. Test with another ICC profile

4. Print from a different software to isolate the issue

5. Run a nozzle check to confirm printhead consistency

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Unfortunately, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or direct repair support. However, we do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service [https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service]). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we can accept new drop-offs.

Our services cover both full printer repairs and specific component diagnostics, with clear guidance throughout the process. That said, we understand our rates may not be the most budget-friendly option. For that reason, we strongly encourage exploring self-help resources first.

A great place to start is YouTube, including our own channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies [https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies]). You can use the search icon next to the "About" section to find videos on your exact issue. With hundreds of videos created over the past nine years, this is the fastest way to locate relevant content. YouTube may also suggest helpful videos from other creators that can guide you further.

Thanks again for reaching out and for your continued support-we truly appreciate it!