The posterization of an image refers to the reduction of colors while maintaining the same color range. This results in an image where continuous gradients turn into regions with defined steps in tone. Sometimes, this effect is intentional. However, when a display’s color depth is insufficient to accurately portray an image, unwanted posterization, also known as banding, may occur.

Temporal posterization is a visual effect that reduces the number of frames of video while maintaining the running time. This creates an intentional strobing effect.