Friday, May 30, 2014

Using The Color Wheel


Finding the right color for a design project can sometimes take as much time as creating the actual content.  Of course, you could just choose your favorite colors but they may not fit with your theme.  Generally, there are two different avenues you could take: complementary colors or analogous colors.

Complementary colors are often referred to as opposite colors.  They are two or more colors that provide the greatest contrast.  For example, purple and yellow are at odds with each other and, therefore, considered to be the perfect choice for eye-popping contrast.  The color wheel is designed so these polar opposites are found on opposite sides of the wheel for easy reference.  Complementary colors can be a great choice for web graphics, high-energy posters, and anything created to attract maximum attention.

Analogous colors are colors that "match" each other.  They exist adjacent to each other on the color wheel.  For example, navy blue, aquamarine, and light green are considered analogous.  People with socially acceptable taste usually dress in analogous colors...of course, taste is always considered personal opinion.  However, most would agree it is better to wear colors that match than to look like a clown. Analogous colors in design are mostly used for more serious projects that suggest high-class or target mature audiences.

Rules are meant to be broken and nowhere is that more true than color selection.  So, use the color wheel as a guide and don't afraid to experiment.  Play around with this interactive color wheel to help you decide what to include in your next design project if you get stuck.  Now, go and color your world!

No comments:

Post a Comment