How do you apply color theory and contrast to improve your 3D models?

1 Choose a color scheme

A color scheme is a combination of colors that work well together and create harmony. There are different types of color schemes, such as monochromatic, complementary, analogous, triadic, and tetradic. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the effect you want to achieve. For example, monochromatic schemes use different shades of the same color, which can create a sense of unity and simplicity. Complementary schemes use colors that are opposite on the color wheel, which can create a sense of contrast and drama. You can use online tools, such as Adobe Color, to generate and test different color schemes for your 3D models.

2 Use color temperature

Color temperature refers to how warm or cool a color is, based on its position on the color wheel. Warm colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, tend to evoke feelings of energy, excitement, and warmth. Cool colors, such as blue, green, and purple, tend to evoke feelings of calmness, relaxation, and coldness. You can use color temperature to create different moods and atmospheres in your 3D models. For example, you can use warm colors for a sunny day, or cool colors for a night scene. You can also use color temperature to create contrast and focal points in your models. For example, you can use a warm color for a character or an object that you want to draw attention to, and a cool color for the background or the environment.

3 Adjust color saturation

Color saturation refers to how intense or dull a color is, based on its purity and brightness. High saturation colors are vivid and bright, while low saturation colors are muted and grayish. You can adjust the color saturation of your 3D models to create different effects and styles. For example, you can use high saturation colors for a cartoonish or stylized look, or low saturation colors for a realistic or subdued look. You can also use color saturation to create contrast and depth in your models. For example, you can use high saturation colors for the foreground or the main elements, and low saturation colors for the background or the secondary elements.

4 Apply contrast principles

Contrast is the difference between two or more elements in a scene, such as color, value, shape, size, texture, or direction. This can be used to create visual interest, balance, and hierarchy in 3D models. There are several contrast principles which can be applied to improve 3D models. Contrast of hue is the contrast between different colors on the color wheel and can be used to create a sense of variety and diversity. Contrast of value is the contrast between light and dark colors or brightness and darkness of a color. This can help show the direction and intensity of the light source, shape and curvature of surfaces, and distance and scale of elements in the scene. Contrast of saturation is the contrast between high and low saturation colors or vividness and dullness of a color. This can be used to emphasize or focus on certain parts of the scene while reducing attention to less relevant or distracting parts.

5 Experiment with color grading

Color grading is a process of adjusting the overall color and tone of 3D models, usually during the post-production stage. This technique can help to enhance the mood, atmosphere, and style of your models, as well as correct any color issues or inconsistencies. You can experiment with different color grading techniques and effects, such as color correction, color enhancement, and color filters. Color correction is the basic adjustment of the color balance, exposure, contrast, and white point. Color enhancement is the creative adjustment of hue, saturation, temperature, and tint to make your models look more appealing and expressive. Lastly, color filters are preset or custom adjustments of the color values and curves to create a stylized or artistic look. With these techniques you can fix any color errors or deviations caused by lighting, camera settings or rendering settings. You can also add more color variety and richness to your models or create a specific mood or theme for your scene.

6 Learn from examples

One of the best ways to improve your 3D models with color theory and contrast is to learn from examples. You can study and analyze how other 3D artists use color and contrast in their models, and what makes them effective and appealing. You can also experiment and practice with different color and contrast settings and combinations, and see how they affect your models. You can use online platforms, such as ArtStation, Sketchfab, or Behance, to find and explore inspiring examples of 3D models with color theory and contrast.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?