My sourdough crusts were coming out pale and dull. Tried placing ice cubes on a hot pan in the oven. The steam made the crust brown and crackly. Now my loaves look like they're from a shop.
Remember when Stella tried that no-knead bread recipe last fall... the one that's supposed to get that perfect dark crust. She sent me a picture and it looked like a burnt brick, but she swore it was the best loaf she'd ever made. Honestly, I get the chase for that bakery look, but you're right, it's just for Instagram. If it tastes like cardboard, who cares how dark it is. I'd take a plain looking, amazing tasting loaf any day.