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Understanding Color in Photography: Using Color, Composition, and Exposure to Create Vivid Photos
Veteran photographer and instructor Bryan Peterson is best known for his arresting imagery using bold, graphic color and composition. Here he explores his signature use of color in photography for the first time, showing readers his process for creating striking images that pop off the page. He addresses how to shoot in any type of light, and looks at color families and how they can work together to make compelling images in commercial and art photography. He also helps readers understand exposure, flash, and other stumbling blocks that beginning and experienced photographers encounter when capturing images, showing how to get the most out of any composition. With its down-to-earth voice and casual teaching style, Understanding Color in Photography is a workshop in a book, helping any photographer take their images to the next level.
144 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2017
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229 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 30, 2017
This was the easiest to read of Bryan Peterson's books that I've read so far--possibly because it is relevant to any photographer (whereas other books, like his flash book, requires a little more advanced knowledge of equipment knowledge). It is easy to read, also, because there are so many images--which, for a photographer and visual learner, is a fantastic thing. I also found this to be helpful for me as a graphics designer. My favorite section was when Peterson and Schellenberg took each color of the color wheel and gave examples of photographing that color--as well as some handy tips on how to get the most vibrant color. Now I'm ready to go out and shoot some colors!
Quick disclaimer: there was one page of nude photography, so conservative photographers, be forewarned.
*I received this book from Blogging for Books and happily provided my honest review.*
Quick disclaimer: there was one page of nude photography, so conservative photographers, be forewarned.
*I received this book from Blogging for Books and happily provided my honest review.*
September 14, 2017
As soon as I saw this book, I knew I wanted to read it. So, I did! This book has some really cool tips for taking great pictures. It makes me want to pick up a camera and start snapping pictures!
The book held some really cool pictures. All his descriptions and reasons for taking the pictures were so cool. I also really liked some of his before and after pictures. I just love seeing the difference of few clicks of a button on the camera can make.
As a girl who is a photographer for fun, this book is definitely worth it! And, any of you who like photography should check this book out!
However…there is one thing that made me not like the author as much. He uses Nikon. NO!!! I am a Canon person—no Nikon for me. It might not be that bad of a brand, but I began taking pictures with a Canon and I will stick to Canon. (Just thought that I would through that out there!)
The cover is so creative. I love all of the colors in it. 5 stars to this cover!
You can probably already guess what rating I am going to give this book. 5 stars! All the tips were definitely worth getting this book!
Title: Understanding Color in Photography: Using Color, Composition, and Exposure to Create Vivid Photos
Authors: Bryan Peterson and Susana Heide Schellenberg
Author’s Websites: http://www.bryanfpeterson.com/
Reading Resolution: #18
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
The book held some really cool pictures. All his descriptions and reasons for taking the pictures were so cool. I also really liked some of his before and after pictures. I just love seeing the difference of few clicks of a button on the camera can make.
As a girl who is a photographer for fun, this book is definitely worth it! And, any of you who like photography should check this book out!
However…there is one thing that made me not like the author as much. He uses Nikon. NO!!! I am a Canon person—no Nikon for me. It might not be that bad of a brand, but I began taking pictures with a Canon and I will stick to Canon. (Just thought that I would through that out there!)
The cover is so creative. I love all of the colors in it. 5 stars to this cover!
You can probably already guess what rating I am going to give this book. 5 stars! All the tips were definitely worth getting this book!
Title: Understanding Color in Photography: Using Color, Composition, and Exposure to Create Vivid Photos
Authors: Bryan Peterson and Susana Heide Schellenberg
Author’s Websites: http://www.bryanfpeterson.com/
Reading Resolution: #18
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
October 18, 2017
I am an amateur photographer and am still learning so much about composition, exposure, and color. So I knew I had to read this book. The author begins with an introduction about himself, his photography journey, what he hopes the reader gains from the book, and what prompted him to write the book. The book is then divided up into four sections - Light, Exposure, And Color; Color and Composition; Color and Mood; and Using Tools to Enhance Color. Each page is filled with beautiful photographs by the author that help to showcase what technique or point he is trying to get across. The text is woven throughout these pictures. As a newer photographer, I felt that the writing was technical, but not so complicated that I was lost.
I learned a lot from each section and feel like it has made me a better photographer. This book would be great for any camera or photographer enthusiast who wants a glimpse into the world of an amazing photographer. Even if you consider yourself a pro, there is always something new to learn. I will definitely be hanging on to this book.
I received a copy of this book from Blogging for Books. All thoughts expressed are my own.
I learned a lot from each section and feel like it has made me a better photographer. This book would be great for any camera or photographer enthusiast who wants a glimpse into the world of an amazing photographer. Even if you consider yourself a pro, there is always something new to learn. I will definitely be hanging on to this book.
I received a copy of this book from Blogging for Books. All thoughts expressed are my own.
November 2, 2017
Understanding Color in Photography is both instruction manual and a spring board for inspiration. It is not for the complete novice, but it is also not equipment dependent. My favorite aspect of Bryan Peterson's books is that he makes beautiful photography approachable and achievable. Putting it into play, of course, takes practice, but the inspiration from the text and the full color photographs is invaluable for this amateur photographer.
Read my complete review at http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2017...
Reviewed for Blogging for Books
Read my complete review at http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2017...
Reviewed for Blogging for Books
March 21, 2022
Bryan Peterson's books are all great. I admire his photography because his philosophy is much like mine -- like Bryan, I learned photography decades ago with 35 mm color slide film and a manual SLR, and remain nostalgic for the color of Kodachrome 64. When you only have 36 exposures for an entire day, you learn to make the best composition and exposure possible the first time. Even if you've been shooting for years you will learn new tips in his books.
February 1, 2021
Awesome
This book makes color theory enjoyable. It gives a big variety of practical examples. It makes you take your camera and go out to start practicing. I highly recommend this book.
This book makes color theory enjoyable. It gives a big variety of practical examples. It makes you take your camera and go out to start practicing. I highly recommend this book.
September 1, 2017
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
As a professional photographer and educator, I have always recommended Peterson's books to beginner and intermediate photographers (especially the self taught). Color has been one of the 'last frontiers' in digital photography education - understanding color theory, how to achieve dynamic images through color, and how color greatly affects the composition have been largely untold in a meaningful way until this book.The book breaks down as follows: Light, Exposure, and Color (Light and the science of color, Exposure and color, White balance and color temperature); Color and Composition (Using color for high impact images, the color wheel, complementary colors, Monochromatic colors, Color and visual weight, Using color as a seamless background, Using motion); Color and Mood (The psychology of color, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple, White, Black); Using Tools to Enhance Color (Filters, Photoshop).
The concepts are all photographed perfectly to achieve an easy understanding of the information presented. I especially like that Peterson shows examples of the same image - one shot poorly and one shot effectively. It's a great way to see how little things make such a huge difference. From color weight (something small in the image taking up importance because it stands out against the rest of the background) to complementary colors (want someone to stand out in a cluttered background like a forest? Put them in a bright red outfit). Even analogous colors and having someone harmonize with a very open environment (e.g., why you dress people in white on a beach shoot rather than dark purple) is discussed.
Color as moods and to give different interpretations of the same image is also fully covered. Peterson includes all kinds of examples - from macros to portraits, scenics to photo journalism. the book is thorough yet it isn't overly written and is easy to follow. In all, highly recommended to help photographers take their photography to the next level of impact. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
September 14, 2017
Bryan Peterson is an internationally known professional photographer and instructor, who has written dozens of photography books. Understanding Color in Photography is his most recent book on the subject and includes four separate sections:
• Light, Exposure and Color
• Color and Composition
• Color and Mood
• Using Tools to Enhance Color
Each section is broken down into specific and detailed topics, which covers things such as exposure and color, monochromatic colors, using color as background, complementary colors, filters, PhotoShop and much more.
As I’ve found with all of Bryan Peterson’s books, the photos are gloriously stunning. Although this is a generous-sized paperback, the quality of the book and photos are wonderful.
The author discusses color in a conversational, easy manner that gives the reader a sense of Peterson’s instructional style. He shares a tremendous amount of professional know-how so that even novice photographers can begin using his color techniques.
Most of us probably won’t have the opportunity take one of Bryan Peterson’s workshops. This book, and all of his books, is the next best thing! Thanks to Blogging for Books, the author and the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book.
5 of 5 Stars, Susan Barton, https://ebookreviewgal.com
• Light, Exposure and Color
• Color and Composition
• Color and Mood
• Using Tools to Enhance Color
Each section is broken down into specific and detailed topics, which covers things such as exposure and color, monochromatic colors, using color as background, complementary colors, filters, PhotoShop and much more.
As I’ve found with all of Bryan Peterson’s books, the photos are gloriously stunning. Although this is a generous-sized paperback, the quality of the book and photos are wonderful.
The author discusses color in a conversational, easy manner that gives the reader a sense of Peterson’s instructional style. He shares a tremendous amount of professional know-how so that even novice photographers can begin using his color techniques.
Most of us probably won’t have the opportunity take one of Bryan Peterson’s workshops. This book, and all of his books, is the next best thing! Thanks to Blogging for Books, the author and the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book.
5 of 5 Stars, Susan Barton, https://ebookreviewgal.com
September 9, 2023
This is a collection of thoughts about—rather than a full-fledged review—of Understanding Color in Photography by Bryan Peterson. TL;DR I wasn’t thoroughly impressed.
On the very first page of the first chapter, the author introduces the reader to “Light and the Science of Color” in a very simplistic way. That’s clearly intended to make the material accessible to a wide audience, and he continues in this vein through the subsequent chapters on “Exposure and Color” and “White Balance and Color Temperature.”
The most useful parts of the book were the insets containing practical tips on things like “Capturing Realistic Skin Tones” and “Learn[ing] to See Color.” Unfortunately, the books contains only a very few such insets.
The bulk of the book comprises two meandering sections on “Color and Composition” and “Color and Mood” which could best have been summarized as one or two blog posts. In fact, 9 Tips for Using Color in Photography, by Heather Joy Milne, and A Simple Guide to Understanding Color in Photography, by Judit Ruiz Ricart, are good, succinct examples that are equally useful.
The book contains many striking illustrative photographs, which the authors insist repeatedly are not heavily post-processed. Each is annotated with equipment and exposure details, as well as a short narrative describing the circumstances of the shot or calling out the relevant color details. This is by far the book’s best quality.
I appreciated too the short chapter at the end of the book on how—and how not—to use Adobe Photoshop. Not being a professional creative myself, I enjoyed learning something new here.
Overall, being a book of basic color theory and a lot of illustrative examples, Understanding Color in Photography is worth a look. Pick it up from your local library and thumb through it before buying a copy.
On the very first page of the first chapter, the author introduces the reader to “Light and the Science of Color” in a very simplistic way. That’s clearly intended to make the material accessible to a wide audience, and he continues in this vein through the subsequent chapters on “Exposure and Color” and “White Balance and Color Temperature.”
The most useful parts of the book were the insets containing practical tips on things like “Capturing Realistic Skin Tones” and “Learn[ing] to See Color.” Unfortunately, the books contains only a very few such insets.
The bulk of the book comprises two meandering sections on “Color and Composition” and “Color and Mood” which could best have been summarized as one or two blog posts. In fact, 9 Tips for Using Color in Photography, by Heather Joy Milne, and A Simple Guide to Understanding Color in Photography, by Judit Ruiz Ricart, are good, succinct examples that are equally useful.
The book contains many striking illustrative photographs, which the authors insist repeatedly are not heavily post-processed. Each is annotated with equipment and exposure details, as well as a short narrative describing the circumstances of the shot or calling out the relevant color details. This is by far the book’s best quality.
I appreciated too the short chapter at the end of the book on how—and how not—to use Adobe Photoshop. Not being a professional creative myself, I enjoyed learning something new here.
Overall, being a book of basic color theory and a lot of illustrative examples, Understanding Color in Photography is worth a look. Pick it up from your local library and thumb through it before buying a copy.
August 21, 2017
I take a lot of pictures and have done a few photography courses and workshops, though I'm still quite an amateur. I like reading books about photography so I can learn more, get ideas and see things through the eyes of a professional.
This book focuses on understanding colour and the chapters are:
* Introduction
* Light, exposure and colour - light and the science of colour, exposure and colour, and white balance and colour temperature
* Colour and composition - using colour for high-impact images, the colour wheel, complementary colours, using colour as a seamless background, using motion and more
* Color and mood - the psychology of colour, red, orange, yellow, etc.
* Using tools to enhance colour - filters and Photoshop
Though some of the stuff in the book went over my head, for the most part I found it interesting. I liked that there were lots of vibrant colour pictures and the descriptions (shutter speed, aperture, etc.) were under them.
I shoot pictures in "P" mode and the only thing I change is the exposure compensation ... I tend to have it at -3 or -7 which is something the author also recommends. He also suggests having the white balance set on "sunny" or "daylight" whenever you are outside (I tend to leave it on auto).
I liked the chapters on the colours ... in the "red" one, for example, there were lots of pictures that had red in them which emphasized how it stood out. The author mentioned in the "green" chapter that he didn't have a lot of "green" pictures in his portfolio ... I was in High Park yesterday and saw and was inspired to take lots of pictures that would have fit in that chapter.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2017/08...
This book focuses on understanding colour and the chapters are:
* Introduction
* Light, exposure and colour - light and the science of colour, exposure and colour, and white balance and colour temperature
* Colour and composition - using colour for high-impact images, the colour wheel, complementary colours, using colour as a seamless background, using motion and more
* Color and mood - the psychology of colour, red, orange, yellow, etc.
* Using tools to enhance colour - filters and Photoshop
Though some of the stuff in the book went over my head, for the most part I found it interesting. I liked that there were lots of vibrant colour pictures and the descriptions (shutter speed, aperture, etc.) were under them.
I shoot pictures in "P" mode and the only thing I change is the exposure compensation ... I tend to have it at -3 or -7 which is something the author also recommends. He also suggests having the white balance set on "sunny" or "daylight" whenever you are outside (I tend to leave it on auto).
I liked the chapters on the colours ... in the "red" one, for example, there were lots of pictures that had red in them which emphasized how it stood out. The author mentioned in the "green" chapter that he didn't have a lot of "green" pictures in his portfolio ... I was in High Park yesterday and saw and was inspired to take lots of pictures that would have fit in that chapter.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2017/08...
September 3, 2017
- It teaches you everything from the science of color and the basics of light, all the way to composition and the psychology of color.
- This book is meant for those want to take pictures with minimal use of photo-processing software (they put it quite clear from the beginning that they wont be discussing much about post processing) . If you have a DSLR camera (not point and shoot or your phone’s), and you know how to use its different settings and want to play with colors in your shots to make them more appealing, create contrast or evoke certain feelings, you will like this book.
- What I liked the most is that the authors provided a lot of example images and extra shots “behind the scenes” that show the process, considerations and arrangements the photographer made before taking that picture. It is a good option for visual-learners and those of us who prefer learning by example rather than plain theory.
- If you don't use a DSLR camera or if you want tips and techniques so that you can do your magic in photoshop, this book is not for you. Nevertheless, you can still take advantage of some of the information contained and the evident experience the authors have as photographers (I loved their images, even the photo of an oil spill looked mesmerizing. You can tell by the cover, it is a 'meh' scene but the colors are enough to make it special and pleasing to look at). I got my eARC from Netgalley
- This book is meant for those want to take pictures with minimal use of photo-processing software (they put it quite clear from the beginning that they wont be discussing much about post processing) . If you have a DSLR camera (not point and shoot or your phone’s), and you know how to use its different settings and want to play with colors in your shots to make them more appealing, create contrast or evoke certain feelings, you will like this book.
- What I liked the most is that the authors provided a lot of example images and extra shots “behind the scenes” that show the process, considerations and arrangements the photographer made before taking that picture. It is a good option for visual-learners and those of us who prefer learning by example rather than plain theory.
- If you don't use a DSLR camera or if you want tips and techniques so that you can do your magic in photoshop, this book is not for you. Nevertheless, you can still take advantage of some of the information contained and the evident experience the authors have as photographers (I loved their images, even the photo of an oil spill looked mesmerizing. You can tell by the cover, it is a 'meh' scene but the colors are enough to make it special and pleasing to look at). I got my eARC from Netgalley
September 12, 2017
I received a wonderful photography book today. Understanding Color in Photography by Bryan Peterson and Susana Heide Schellenberg is not only full of beautiful photography but great tips as well. I think I may have mentioned before that photography is one of my hobbies. This means that I have read many books on the subject. I found this one to offer fresh and unique ideas.
One of the things that I really appreciate about the authors is that they emphasize trying to get things right in camera versus trying to correct with editing software. I think this stance is something that really sets this book apart from others on the subject. The authors offer up unique ideas that everyone can try regardless of skill with a camera. There is one photograph of a women surrounded by wonderful blurry colors that were created by using a window box of flowers. I cannot wait to try out this idea and will be on the lookout for flower boxes until I do.
I recommend this book if you have an interest in photography or are looking for some new ideas. You will not be disappointed.
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
One of the things that I really appreciate about the authors is that they emphasize trying to get things right in camera versus trying to correct with editing software. I think this stance is something that really sets this book apart from others on the subject. The authors offer up unique ideas that everyone can try regardless of skill with a camera. There is one photograph of a women surrounded by wonderful blurry colors that were created by using a window box of flowers. I cannot wait to try out this idea and will be on the lookout for flower boxes until I do.
I recommend this book if you have an interest in photography or are looking for some new ideas. You will not be disappointed.
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
October 13, 2023
Fantastic Book, Even for the Experienced Photographer
This reviewer has had approximately 40 years experience as an amateur photographer. He found nearly everything contained in this book, despite all these years of experience, new, innovative and
applicable to practicalphotography. There is considerable very usefuladvice in this book that can
greatly improve one's photography, with respect to color. For example, placing darker colors at the
bottom and lighter at the top prevents photographs from looking unbalanced. That, counter-intuitively, to get brighter colors from bright colors, one should expose them by 2/3- 1 stop. To get better colors out of blacks (or darker colors) it is best to underexpose them by 2/3 -1 stop. This book is just full of such usefuland practicaladvice. These hints are not only usefulto beginners but to those through the intermediary level.
One of the best books on photography this reviewer has ever read. Five Stars.
This reviewer has had approximately 40 years experience as an amateur photographer. He found nearly everything contained in this book, despite all these years of experience, new, innovative and
applicable to practicalphotography. There is considerable very usefuladvice in this book that can
greatly improve one's photography, with respect to color. For example, placing darker colors at the
bottom and lighter at the top prevents photographs from looking unbalanced. That, counter-intuitively, to get brighter colors from bright colors, one should expose them by 2/3- 1 stop. To get better colors out of blacks (or darker colors) it is best to underexpose them by 2/3 -1 stop. This book is just full of such usefuland practicaladvice. These hints are not only usefulto beginners but to those through the intermediary level.
One of the best books on photography this reviewer has ever read. Five Stars.
August 29, 2017
This short book is, as you’d expect, full of photos. Yet despite those two facts, it is not easy going. I’ve been a professional photographer for over 25 years, so this would seem like a slam dunk, but I found myself disagreeing with his opinions too much. It’s difficult being in tune with him—though I’ve been a big fan of his previous books—because he likes warm tones, whereas I prefer the cooler side of the spectrum: blue rather than yellow and red. So this can’t help but color (sorry, couldn’t think of anything else there, definitely not a pun) some of the things the author says.
As always with these books, I learn a few new things and then instantly forget them. I treat them as reference books.
As always with these books, I learn a few new things and then instantly forget them. I treat them as reference books.
November 27, 2017
This book is worth the price for the photography in it alone! But the content is also top notch. The explanations on how to use color to tell stories in your photography and why are done very well. I really like the section on the psychology of color and the descriptions of the moods that are set by each one.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I received this book for free from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I received this book for free from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
May 30, 2017
It is a book I've read with my camera on, trying to test various suggestions for apertures and speed. As the camera used in most cases is Nikon, my choice for a long time, it made the exercises even more easier and practical. I appreciated the examples, the focus on practical aspects, instead of a lengthy scientific and theoretical approach. A book recommended to anyone trying to improve the quality of photos and to better understand how to play with colours otherwise than by using filters or Photoshop.
Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 26, 2017
I'm so glad I was able to review this book, I took both a Film Photography an a Digital Photography class when I was in College. I love how simple yet easy to read this book was I do like how it didn't read like a boring Textbook. Mr. Peterson’s pictures are truly amazing through out this very colorful book. I can't wait to get my new camera so that I can practice some of his techniques. I will most definitely be checking out his other books as well.
~ I received this book for free form Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review~
~ I received this book for free form Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review~
May 14, 2017
I have to start with the fact that I have loved Byran Peterson's other books & pictures. This book is amazing!! Bryan offers some great tips for improving your photography around color. I also love how he shows the big picture & then how he narrowed his focus to get the stunning picture with great colors! It makes me want to go out & start taking pictures right now. I will definitely be referring back to this book in the future. Thank you for a truly great book that is so inspiring!
December 12, 2020
Spectacular photographs that make me question their true non-Photoshop integrity. Good background on color theory and how to properly implement color in compositions. I just wish there were more exercise/photo shoot prompts as well as more specific things to execute about understanding beyond the basics of color theory.
April 11, 2021
Take my words with a grain of salt as I am a n00b at photography and possess very little knowledge of the artform prior to reading this book.
But nevertheless, I absolutely LOVED this book and couldn't get enough.
This is one of the books in my lifetime that I read when I was disappointed it didn't keep going longer.
But nevertheless, I absolutely LOVED this book and couldn't get enough.
This is one of the books in my lifetime that I read when I was disappointed it didn't keep going longer.
April 21, 2022
Nice bits of information, definitely some useful tips and lessons to gain from reading this book. Can drag on for a bit when it comes to the structure of text, making it at times slightly boring.
Overall, I liked it. Made me appreciate the raw effect acquired through just the camera and its settings.
"I was there - and being there was key!"
Overall, I liked it. Made me appreciate the raw effect acquired through just the camera and its settings.
"I was there - and being there was key!"
September 22, 2017
"When you go out to take photographs, what do you look for? As you walk along the streets of your neighborhood or city, are you drawn first toward the mannerisms of people or the color of their clothing, the colors that surround them, and the color of their hair?"
August 24, 2018
I loved this, it explains the characteristics of every colour and each photograph has its details written on it( iso, aperture, shutter speed, lens type), which I thought it was very helpful. It also shows some techniques in photography and some mistakes based on composing with color. Lovely .
June 14, 2017
*I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.* This is a overall good book for those who are beginners with photography or photographers. I would honestly say that this book is definitely counted as a "color theory" type book and that there are important aspects that people should know. There are a lot of helpful aspects to this book and I would definitely recommend this book. 5 stars.
October 28, 2017
Great guide for anyone wanting to improve their skills with regard to color within composition.
December 21, 2017
One of the best books by Bryan Peterson. Very informative and inspiring photos.
June 27, 2019
Bryan has such a way with how he explains his photographic process. The color pictures that complement each section really go a long way to helping solidify the concepts in the mind.
August 19, 2019
Vey useful book. I was very interesting to read it.
If you don't have any idea about colors it will be very useful for you. Read it and you will never regret
If you don't have any idea about colors it will be very useful for you. Read it and you will never regret
Read
November 16, 2019Keen to Know more about Color Photography, from this great Teacher.
July 18, 2020
Easy And Good take on colors in photography that will make you conscious of colors. Best line of book: I don’t see the bird, I see the red wings!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews