We evaluate three link functions (square root, logit, and copula) and Matérn kernel in the kernel-based estimation of reflectance spectra of the Munsell Matte collection in the 400-700 nm region. We estimate reflectance spectra from RGB camera responses in case of real and simulated responses and show that a combination of link function and a kernel regression model with a Matérn kernel decreases spectral errors when compared to a Gaussian mixture model or kernel regression with the Gaussian kernel. Matérn kernel produces performance similar to the thin plate spline model, but does not require a parametric polynomial part in the model.