The Art & Science of Color: A Photographer's Guide

Color is more than a technical aspect of photography—it's a powerful tool for storytelling and emotion. While many photographers understand how to tweak color during postproduction, few fully grasp its deeper potential: how colors interact, influence mood, and shape the viewer's experience.

This expanded two-session class dives into the art and science of color, blending technical knowledge with creative insight. You'll learn how to see, understand, and use color in a way that transforms your photography. Through engaging lessons and hands-on techniques, this class will forever change how you approach color in your images and your everyday surroundings.

What You’ll Learn

Week 1: Exploring the Foundations of Color

The science and psychology of color: How we perceive and respond to it.

The concept of simultaneous contrast and its influence on visual art, from Impressionist painting to modern photography.

Why mastering subtractive color theory is essential for photographers.

The anatomy of color schemes: Monochrome, analogous, complementary, split complementary, and more.

Crafting color harmony to guide your viewer’s emotions and focus.

Week 2: Applying Color Theory to Practice

Understanding and comparing color models and spaces for accurate results.

Practical methods for evaluating and refining color in Lightroom Classic and Photoshop.

The difference between color correction and color grading—and when to use each.

Exploring tools and techniques for adjusting color globally and locally.

Advanced workflows for achieving precision and creative control in postproduction.

This class goes beyond the basics, equipping you with both the technical skills and artistic vision to use color as a core element of your creative expression. By the end, you’ll see color not just as a component of photography but as a powerful medium in its own right.