1. A method of optimizing gray component replacement in a color image, the method comprising: receiving a color image from an input imaging device; determining a color gamut of an output imaging device; generating a CIELab to CMY numerical model to convert the color image to a color space within the color gamut of the output imaging device; generating a CMYK to CIELab numerical conversion model; removing unequal amounts of CMY color values generated from the CIELab to CMY numerical conversion model; replacing the removed CMY color values with black color values to establish an initial point for optimization in the CMYK to CIELab numerical conversion model; and optimizing first CMYK color values via a multidimensional optimization using the CMYK to CIELab numerical model, wherein optimizing comprises: converting the removed CMY color values to a set of second CMYK color values; operating on the set of second CMYK color values to generate an optimization algorithm; and optimizing the first CMYK color values via the optimization algorithm.