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Photographing Color

Welcome to my special project on photographing color. Have you ever looked at an image and instantly felt happy and at peace? Chances are you were responding to the colors in the scene. Even the smallest splash of color has the power to instantly transform a photograph. Different colors trigger different emotions, and knowing how to harness this gives you the power to create stunning pictures.

Color and Mood

There is a whole science behind color and mood that can be used effectively when photographing color. Of course, the color in a photograph doesn't work in isolation. When creating images, you can learn color theory by exploring the properties of color and how you can make this work for you in photography.

So no matter how different colors affect you personally, from neutrals like white and cream, beige and brown, grey and black - to a myriad of colors - reds, blues, pinks and greens - these pages reveal the secret to utilizing color for maximum impact in your images. The secret is to have fun with photographing color!

Just try it!

Warm Colors: The Spice of Life

Bold and passionate, warm colors like pink, red, and orange are the attention-seekers in the color palette. If you're drawn to these fiery hues when photographing color, it may be that you're adventurous and unafraid to experiment.

Pink

Go to Show me Pink

Pink is traditionally a feminine, comforting color, and depending on the shade, it can be highly sexual and seductive too! Women in particular are drawn to its nurturing qualities, but with hot tropical shades like magenta, men are slowly warming to its appeal... more

© Mia Rose

Red

Bold, fiery red has been known to physically raise pulse rates. It commands attention and brings heat and energy to an image. It is also favored by those who love to be in charge.

Orange

Stimulating and passionate, orange bursts with enthusiasm, vitality and humor. It's an obvious choice if you're optimistic and fun-loving. Orange captures the romance of spectacular sunrises and sunsets too.

Yellow

Go to Mellow Yellow

Yellow is a splash of sunshine that exudes confidence, hope, optimism and creativiy... more

© Mia Rose

Cool Shades - Calm and Collected

The cooler colors of the spectrum work by visually calming the senses. If you're a seeker of peace and tranquility, you will be instinctively drawn to greens and blues.

Green

Found everywhere in nature, green is restful while at the same time creating a sense of creativity.

Blue

Just about everyone loves the uplifting qualities of blue. Royal and ice blues can be mysterious and aloof; navy, azure, indigo and peacock blue can be sporty and ambitious; while aqua, turquoise and light blue can be soft, seductive and highly emotional. Blue is most strongly represented in sky and water images.

Neutrals and Naturals - Salt of the Earth

Neutrals and naturals mimic the colors of the earth and therefore by nature balanced, practical, reliable and organized. These colors work by evoking a sense of stability, peace and harmony.

White

Go to Snow White

If you're practical and organized, chances are you're drawn to cool-based whites, while warmer tones like cream, oatmeal and faun appeal to those seeking harmony and security. Romantics tend to love mother of pearl and champagne shades, which add a touch of glamour... more

@ Mia Rose

Grey

Grey is a popular color in urban living and projects an aura of contemplation and intelligence. If you crave space, simplicity and minimalism, chances are you'll be drawn to its smoky hues.

Brown

This earthy color draws the eye of lovers of the greatoutdoors, as well as those who are practical and supportive. Timber tones are warm and supportive and harness nature's organic, harmonious qualities.

Dark Shades - Powerful and Mysterious

Dark colors like purple and black often appeal to serious, intellectual souls. If you crave sophistication and drama, you will be drawn to these powerful shades.

Black

Black is all colors absorbed, which makes it a very powerful, controlling color. At the same time it's synonymous with style and glamour.

Purple

Purple is a rich color with regal and luxurious overtones. It also has a deeply spiritual aspect and people who meditate or are spiritually active tend to be drawn to it. Earthier tones such as aubergine and plum can be soothing and warming, while crisp shades of lavender and lilac can be cooling.

If you enjoyed this page on photographing color, you may like the following too:

* The Color Wheel and the Effect of Light on Color

(From Photographing Color back to Basic Photography Tips Home)

Read, reflect and be inspired. If you find something of value here, enjoy its gifts and please pass it on to your friends.

SBI!