Filmmaking Essentials for Photographers

CHAPTER 11

COLOR THEORY AND THE HUMAN BRAIN

USING COLOR TO ENHANCE YOUR STORIES

Generally speaking, much of what we know about color science and color theories comes from the few things we learned in school or college. We understand the basics: primary and secondary colors, complementary colors, warm and cool tones. But in photography and video, color is much more than an aesthetic choice.

In both crafts, through the proper use of color we add emotional layers to a scene, manipulate a story, or completely change a picture. Many exterior architectural shots are taken at dusk. Why? Because the light outside is cool and the sky is usually more spectacular. The lights inside the house are warm, and that warmth can evoke feelings of home, safety, ...