Optimization of a High Order Polynomial with the White Balancing method for underwater image improvement

This paper proposes the use of the white balance method in image preprocessing before applying the high-order polynomial (HOP) method for image improvement. The main contribution in this process is preparing the image to overcome unequal color absorption caused by differences in distance when the image is taken. In the calculations on the HOP method, the preparation of mathematical calculations is carried out assuming the same distance between the object and the camera; closer or farther distances will cause different light absorption in image capture; this needs to be done to balance the color tone of the image. To test the effectiveness of the proposed method, a simulation is carried out using MATLAB 2022 by preprocessing the images taken by carrying out the white balance process by adjusting the brightness of the light in the image, the results of this image are the basis for applying the HOP process to obtain images with color correction that are closer to the original color. The superiority of the proposed method is confirmed by calculating the Mean Square Error (MSE) and Peak Signal Noise Ratio (PSNR) where the PSNR value obtained is 19.80 dB, 0.52 points higher than just using HOP. This modeling will be useful in the maritime field in observing the development of coral reefs through color information on coral reefs, which is also used as an indicator of world environmental health.