Working in color: How to compose a color shot

The way that you use color in an image has a strong impact on its mood and atmosphere. We tend to think of colors as warm or cold, bright or subtle, dark or light, and so on, but the perception of color is not absolute since it changes according to the surrounding colors.

Generally, strong colors work best with other strong colors—think of a tanned model against a blue sky and turquoise sea—while a soft pastel palette works well if you want to create a fragile, romantic atmosphere.

When composing a color shot, remember that anything that contrasts strongly with other
colors in the scene will immediately draw the eye—so unless it is an important element, try to avoid it.

Color harmony
soft blue-grays and shades of orange and pink are repeated and refected throughout this image. the pastel tones are in harmony with the stillness of the pose, the natural look of the model, and the dreamy expression in her eyes.


1 the slates of the roof pick up a refection of the brickwork, creating a subtle combination of peach and gray tones, which is also just visible on the model’s upper arm.

2 the mortar between the bricks corresponds to the colors of the roof and the window frame.

3 the deeper rose-pink of the nipple, and also the model’s lips, matches the darker tones in the bricks.

4 softer shades of blue-gray are reflected on the body, while darker shadows are repeated in the unlit parts of the window frame.


Reflected color
The charm of this image lies in the green reflections on the model’s body. this not only creates an interesting color contrast but also a connection between the model and the setting, which would be lost in black and white.


Notice too that the skin tones and the green color cast are in the same range of saturation, and that the model is brighter than the background, which automatically focuses attention on her.

Color balance

this image fnds a balance between a neutral, almost cold light and the patch of warm, late evening light from the window. the model is lit by both and the mysterious quality of the image is
enhanced by the shadow on the wall behind her.

Blocks of color

Here, the strong color works as a frame, strengthening the image and imparting energy to the pose. the hint of cool blue light on the model’s face contrasts nicely with the vivid red and the dark shadows.

Color cast

The underexposed blue evening light gives this image an eerie feel, which works well with the pose and the camera angle. notice the orange glow in the background, caused by a tungsten light at the end of the corridor.