How can you choose the perfect color scheme for a vector illustration?

1 Understand the basics

Before you start picking colors, it is important to understand some basic concepts and terminology related to color theory. Color theory is the study of how colors interact and affect each other, as well as how they influence human perception and psychology. For instance, hue is the name of a color, such as red, blue, or green. Saturation is the intensity or purity of a color, ranging from dull to vibrant. Value is the lightness or darkness of a color, ranging from white to black. Temperature is the warmth or coolness of a color, based on its association with fire or ice. In addition, tint is a color mixed with white, resulting in a lighter hue; shade is a color mixed with black, resulting in a darker hue; and tone is a color mixed with gray, resulting in a less saturated hue.

3 Use a color wheel

A color wheel is a circular diagram that shows the relationship between colors based on their hue, saturation, and value. It can help you create harmonious and balanced color schemes for your vector illustration. There are different types of color wheels, but the most common one is based on the 12 hues of the rainbow. Using a color wheel, you can create different types of color schemes, such as monochromatic, analogous, complementary, triadic, and tetradic. Monochromatic uses only one hue and its variations of tint, shade, and tone which can be simple and elegant; however, it can also be boring or monotonous if not used carefully. Analogous uses three or more hues that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel creating a smooth and harmonious color scheme, yet it can also be dull or lacking in contrast if not used wisely. Complementary uses two hues that are opposite to each other on the color wheel creating a dynamic and contrasting color scheme, though it can also be harsh or clashing if not used moderately. Triadic uses three hues that are equally spaced from each other on the color wheel creating a balanced and vibrant color scheme; yet it can also be overwhelming or chaotic if not used sparingly. Tetradic uses four hues that form a rectangle or a square on the color wheel creating a rich and complex color scheme; however, it can also be confusing or muddy if not used selectively.

5 Consider your audience and purpose

Finally, you should always consider your audience and purpose when choosing a color scheme for your vector illustration. Different colors can evoke different emotions, associations, and meanings, depending on the context and the culture of your audience. For example, red can signify passion, danger, or anger, depending on how you use it and who you are targeting. Therefore, you should always research and understand your audience's preferences, expectations, and values, and choose a color scheme that matches your message, tone, and goal. For example, if you are creating a vector illustration for a children's book, you may want to use bright and cheerful colors, whereas if you are creating a vector illustration for a corporate brochure, you may want to use muted and professional colors.