Using Color: The Relationship Between Graphic Design and Color Schemes

Now we will discuss the relationship between color and graphic design. As you may already know, color plays a big role when it comes to logos and advertisements. It is the first thing that catches your eye when glancing at any graphic design. Why do you think candy packaging is so bright and colorful? Children are especially drawn to this, which is why many candy companies may choose such bright, obnoxious colors. However, despite the amount of color in each design, it is how they are used that creates an effective, eye catching design that many people are attracted to.

Now that you know the specific types of colors you are going to learn how to utilize these colors, whether they are alone or accompanied by others. There are many ways to mix and match colors — some even require scientific processes — but for now we will be looking at only three types of color schemes.

Complementary

These types of colors are opposite of each other on the color wheel. Referring back to the name, these colors complement each other to create strong contrast within your design. In the example below, you can see how effective they can be. However, it is not recommended to use these types of colors often. Even though it may seem eye catching, the strong contrast can be an eye sore, depending on how you use it.

Chili's Bar and Grill uses
a red and green complementary color scheme.

Analogous

Unlike complementary, these neighboring colors can prove to be just as effective with a subtle tone that can be most pleasing to the eye. The best part of analogous colors is that more colors may be used as opposed to complementary colors that only require two. Depending on how you use them, analogous colors tend to be the safest choice among graphic designers due to the simplicity and unlimited possibilities for the colors involved.

Firefox not only utilizes an analogous 

color scheme, but a complementary color scheme 

made up of orange and blue.

Triad

Typically, triad colors utilize three contrasting colors that are evenly spread across from each other on the color wheel. They can be a bit tricky to use, which is why referencing a color wheel would be most helpful. For those that may not be color experts, there are even some online tools such as the Adobe Kuler tool, which you can find at color.adobe.com. When used properly, these colors can create a very strong, yet subtle contrast to draw the eye.

Burger King's logo uses a strong triad color scheme of red, yellow orange, and navy blue.