1. COLOR
Because color communicates emotion, moods and ideas, it is a powerful way to communicate in photography.
It’s important that the photographer be aware of the psychological impact of colors
When color is used deliberately, it can create impactful images that are unforgettable.

2. Color & Psychology

3. Color Schemes / Harmonies

4. Warm vs. Cool Colors

5. Monochromatic
Shades of a single color.

6. Complementary Colors
Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel are complementary colors.
The high contrast of complementary colors creates a vibrant look. This color scheme must be managed well so it is not jarring.
Complementary colors are tricky to use in large doses, but work well when you want something to stand out.
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

7. Complementary Colors

8. Complementary Colors

9. Analogous Colors
Analogous color schemes use colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. They match well and create serene and comfortable designs.
Analogous color schemes are often found in nature and are harmonious and pleasing to the eye.
Choose one color to dominate, a second to support. The third color is used (along with black, white or gray) as an accent.
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

10. Analogous Colors

11. Analogous Colors

12. Triad
A triadic color scheme uses colors that are evenly spaced around the color wheel.
Triadic color schemes tend to be quite vibrant.
To use a triadic harmony successfully, the colors should be carefully balanced - let one color dominate and use the two others for accent.
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

13. Triad - Primary Colors

14. Triad

15. Cool Color Scheme
Cool colors make objects recede (look farther away). These colors are soothing and remind the viewer of water, thus they are perceived as peaceful and cool.
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

16. Cool Color Scheme

17. Cool Color Scheme

18. Warm Color Scheme
Warm colors make objects look closer. These colors are vibrant and remind the viewer of fire, thus they are perceived as warm and energetic.
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

19. Warm Color Scheme

20. Warm Color Scheme

21. Monochromatic Color Scheme
Using shades of only one color creates a soothing, elegant effect. Depending on the color, different moods can be created.
When using one color, it is essential to include a range of tones, from highlights, to middle tones, to shadows, so that the image is crisp and contains contrast.
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

22. Monochromatic Color Scheme
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

23. Monochromatic Color Scheme
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

24. Monochromatic Color Scheme
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

25. Monochromatic Color Scheme
Aaron Siskind
Chicago
1948

26. Color Examples Find the following examples and post them:
Complementary
Non- black and white Monochromatic
Triad with Primary Colors
Warm
Analogous Cool
After each image, write two sentences explaining the following:
What is/are the dominant color(s) being used?
What is the psychological effect of the colors being used in the photograph?
Ralph H. Gibson
American, b, 1939
Self Portrait in Paris, Hotel du Pont Royal
1985
gelatin silver print on paper