Clashing colors

I suppose it is an obvious thing to say, that some colors go well together whilst others clash. Quite often the photographer will be concentrating on the main subject a the shot and the camera settings, neglecting to compose photos by thinking how the colors work together in the frame. On the right is a color wheel. The idea is that colors that are close to each other will be in harmony, whilst colors that are opposite or near opposite each other will create drama and tension.

Using this idea of 'clashing' or 'harmonious' colors, it is possible to compose shots where the atmosphere of the photo is entirely created by the colors in the shot.


Red and green are near opposites on the color wheel



Green and yellow are close to each other on the color wheel

Obviously, I am over simplifying color theory, but bearing these simple rules in mind can help to add drama or create harmony in your photos.

Categories: myPhotos, photo, color, tutorial