Understanding Color Contrast: The Science Behind Red, White, and Blue

When it comes to designing signs and wayfinding systems, color plays a crucial role in catching attention and conveying information. But how do we ensure that our colors work together effectively? One of the most important factors is contrast. By subtracting the darker color from the lighter color, divided by the difference by the lighter, and multiplying by 100, we get brightness differential - a key metric for calculating color contrast.

In their book 'Wayfinding' published in 1992, Arthur and Passini described a reliable method for calculating the contrast difference between two colors. This formula is based on light reflectancy (LR) readings in percentages for each of the two colors involved.

Understanding the relationship between colors is essential when developing a color scheme for signage and wayfinding systems. The Color Wheel, an abstract illustrative organization of color hues around a circle, shows relationships between primary colors, secondary colors, and complementary colors. Goethe's Theory of Colours (1810) provided the first systematic study of the physiological effects of color.

Complementary colors, such as red-orange, red-violet, yellow-orange, yellow-green, blue-violet, and blue-green, are particularly striking when used together. Secondary colors like green, orange, and violet also play a crucial role in creating harmonious color schemes.

In signage design, color is the key to harmonizing signs with their environment. The Swiss painter and designer Johannes Itten created a color wheel that shows relationships between 12 color hues around a circle. By using color programs, signs can be distinguished from one another and convey messages without requiring language understanding.

When it comes to text style, contrast between the foreground and background is vital for ease of reading. Optimal contrast results come from using white text against dark-colored backgrounds. In Photoshop, this means selecting red, white, and blue colors carefully to ensure effective contrast and readability.

In conclusion, understanding color contrast is essential for creating effective signage and wayfinding systems. By applying the principles of brightness differential, complementary colors, secondary colors, and color harmony, we can design signs that are both visually appealing and easy to read. Whether designing in Photoshop or creating physical signs, mastering color contrast will elevate your designs to the next level.

Red white and blue text style photoshop