How to Use Analogous Colors

in Photography
Do you find color photography intimidating? It doesn’t have to be.

A great way to get started with color photography is by using analogous colors.

In this article, I’ll explain what they are and how to use them in your photography.

What Is Color Theory

You might think color theory is something only painters need to study. That’s not true. As a
photographer, you can benefit from learning at least the basics.

Color theory is a collection of rules and guidelines describing the use of color in art and design. It
was developed a long time ago.
It’s easier to make a great photo if you know which color combinations look pleasing to the eye. It
all starts with the famous color wheel. It shows the relationship between colors. From there, it’s easy
to learn about analogous and triadic colors.

Photographers should know the messages that colors communicate. Add color theory to your
knowledge of composition, lighting, and exposure.

This will definitely make you a better photographer.

What Are Analogous Colors

Analogous colors are not difficult to find. Just pick a color from the color wheel and pick the three
colors to the left or right from it. For example, the color red can be picked with orange or purple.

You can also pick one color to the left and two to the right, for example. Those four colors are
analogous colors.

You can also choose just two colors next to each other. They’re also called analogous colors.
 © Pixabay

Why Use Analogous Colors in

Photography
Use colors next to one another on the color wheel in your photos. This will make them look
harmonious and easy to the eye. The combination always looks calm and soothing.

Using analogous colors creates a softer contrast. Still, it’s more interesting than monochrome colors
for example.

That doesn’t mean it’s always the right choice for your photos but it’s a good guideline to
experiment with.

How to Use Analogous Colors in

Photography
Analogous colors are easy to find in nature. In macro photography, for example, you’ll see
analogous colors fairly often.

The easiest way to start is by looking at analogous color schemes in flowers. Also, pay attention to
certain insects and flowers. Often, the combination creates an analogous color scheme.

If you’re a landscape photographer, it’s also easy. You’ll probably have photographed a lot of
analogous color schemes unknowingly.

Here’s an example of analogous colors in a landscape.

 © Pixabay
But also in the streets, you can find analogous colors.

© Pixabay

Don’t Focus on Colors Only

When using analogous colors, it’s important to keep it interesting. Colors so closely related to each
other could look boring.

As a photographer, you should also pay attention to composition and lighting. Only then can you
make a photo with analogous colors visually pleasing.

Skipping a colour is also a good idea. Instead of using green and yellow-green, use green and
orange.
And the most important thing is to make sure that your images are balanced. Every component and
color should have its place in the frame.

How you arrange everything is your task and the most difficult part of being a photographer.

© Pixabay

Conclusion
Color theory might sound intimidating but it’s absolutely not. Learning how the color wheel works
will definitely make you a better photographer.

Use guidelines like analogous and triadic colors to your advantage but don’t forget your own
creativity. They’re guidelines, not laws.

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