Red Tulips courtesy of trulyfreestock.com
Why do the reds and greens in this image command a lot of attention? Because they are complimentary colors. Red and green are opposite each other on the color wheel.
Yes, but I would not wear red and green together. So, why do they look so interesting and attractive in this particular photo?
If you will notice, this photograph has secondary areas of pale green, gray and white. The pale green and dusty white on the leaves really help to break up the intensity of the colors. So do the white and gray in the background. Along with red and green, the yellow areas in the photo create a triad of color mass. Such balances are perceived by the human mind as being aesthetic on a very deep subconscious level. Also, the ratio of red to green in the tulips (the main subject of the photo) is about 1/3 to 2/3. If it were half and half, this photo would be far less interesting. The “golden ratio” of thirds is another preference of the human mind.
The lesson here is that when using bright color, be sure and insert enough light versions of the main color and a good neutral like a gray to give the eye a rest. Also, it is nice to use a 1/3 to 2/3 proportion when you are dealing with complimentary hues.
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