I posted this on decor since it's so active, and some paint color savvy folks hang out there. I need advice, please.

Normally, I believe paint takes on a lighter appearance on the ceiling, and that's been my previous experience.

My painted-today tray ceiling, all in same shade of honey gold as the walls, has reacted very differently to the changing light: Throughout the day it has appeared a whole shade darker, and now in late afternoon it also looks a very different color....cocoa...a taupe shade, not gold. :>/

When the painters return on Monday I'd planned to have them go over at a 50% reduction. Now I have no idea what that might result in...pale cocoa? I don't have the ladder or the stamina for heights to try it out myself....even if I could (paint store closed tomorrow). Hope someone here has more knowledge about this...anyone??