Color can be very powerful when taking photos. A lot of photographers try to focus on getting the right angle and the right lighting. Although this is important, you do need to make sure that you’re not overlooking how important it is to get the right color balance.

Delving into Color Theory

If you want to give your photograph meaning, color is the best way for you to do this. Red symbolizes love, and in romantic shots, it’s a great color to be using. Red can also be used to signify passion and energy, which is why Netflix uses it in its logo. White stands for perfection and completion, with green being linked to luck. You’ll see the color green being used on the Paddy Power casino bonus page, as a way to reinforce the fact that wins often come down to being lucky. The color gold, as seen on the page, is also associated with sophistication and prestige, which helps to reinforce the integrity of the brand.

When taking photos, it’s possible to use color theory to your advantage. Dress your subjects in clothes that reflect the theme, and give thought to what colors are around you, rather than focusing on the overall theme itself. If you can do this, your photos will end up being better, and you will find it easier to make certain aspects pop.

Color Repetition

Another thing you can do is purposely repeat color. Repeating color is the best way to draw a user into the frame. Having a couple walk through an autumnal wood, dressed in gold or green clothing can help to reinforce the nature theme. It also helps to make the end photo look more intentional, and this can translate to a more professional result overall.

Movie posters often do this, as a way to draw a viewer into the story before they even press play. The Last Of Us has an iconic cover image, using a muted background to give the impression of a wasteland. The characters are also wearing muted colors, which help them blend in. Color repetition is seen throughout the poster, as a way to convey the theme of the show.

Although it's important to have colors repeat, sometimes having distinguishable colors helps to provide a focal point. Take the poster that Netflix used in Journey To Greenland for example. The snowy scene and bright blue sky offers a consistent theme, but the pop of the red and green coat helps to give a strong focal point. This helps to add visual interest, and when used properly, it’s a great way for you to create an exciting image.

So as you can see, it’s easy for you to use colors strategically when taking photographs. If you take inspiration from movie posters, this will often give you ideas on how you can incorporate color into your photos. Whether you want the subject to blend into the background to stand out, it’s easy to use color as a way to draw someone into the moment you’ve captured.

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