Colour[1]

Introduction to Color

  • Chapter 9 of User-Centered Website Development focuses on color.

  • Authors: Daniel D. McCracken, Rosalee J. Wolfe, Jared M. Spool.

Chapter Overview

  • Learn about:

    • Physical and perceptual aspects of color

    • Several color models and their advantages

    • Four color-harmony schemes

    • Examples of color in nature and how they relate to color vocabulary

    • Tool programs for studying color

    • Using color to enhance website readability

Physical and Perceptual Aspects of Color

  • The Physics of Color:

    • The spectrum of visible light.

    • The electromagnetic spectrum.

    • Human visual response to different colors.

Understanding the Visible Spectrum

  • Wavelengths of Visible Light:

    • Ranges from 400 nanometers (violet) to 700 nanometers (red).

    • Human vision is most sensitive to wavelengths in the green spectrum.

Color Models

  • Overview of Color Models:

    • A system for precisely describing color.

  • Primary Models:

    • RYB (Red, Yellow, Blue) for artists.

    • RGB (Red, Green, Blue) for digital displays (additive color).

    • CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) for print (subtractive color).

Additive Color Model (RGB)

  • Combining Colors:

    • Red + Green = Yellow

    • Red + Blue = Magenta

    • Green + Blue = Cyan

  • Utilized in devices that emit light, e.g., computer screens.

Subtractive Color Model (CMYK)

  • Reflects and absorbs light to produce color.

  • Color Mixing:

    • Cyan subtracts red, magenta subtracts green, yellow subtracts blue.

    • Used primarily in printing.

HSB Model (Hue, Saturation, Brightness)

  • Definitions:

    • Hue: Type of color (position on the color wheel).

    • Saturation: Purity of color (intensity).

    • Brightness: Lightness or darkness.

Color Harmony Schemes

  • Monochromatic: Different shades of a single hue; variations in brightness or saturation.

  • Complementary: Colors opposite each other on the color wheel.

  • Analogous: Adjacent colors on the wheel.

  • Triadic: Three evenly spaced colors.

Application of Color in Web Design

  • Importance of color in creating an aesthetically pleasing and readable webpage.

  • Proper contrast enhances usability and navigational cues.

Text and Background Colors

  • Legibility Rules:

    • High contrast aids readability.

    • Avoid too much contrast for extended readability; e.g., black on white can be harsh.

    • Prefer dark text on light backgrounds.

    • Light text on dark can work for headings.

Additional Tips on Color Use

  • Experiment with color combinations for effect and appeal.

  • Consider user testing for the best results in usability.

Summary of Key Concepts

  • Understand color spectrum and sensitivity of human eyes.

  • Grasp additive and subtractive color models.

  • Apply HSB model for a comprehensive understanding of color properties.

  • Explore and implement color harmony schemes for effective design.

  • Prioritize legibility in text/background color usage to enhance web experience.