The Color Red - Intro to Color Series

Welcome back to my beginning color series. Last week we began by looking at the basics of color theory. If you missed that post you can find it here.

The series will continue with a look at each of the colors from the color wheel. I’ll share one each week. Are you ready to get started?

The first color we will explore is the color RED. What comes to mind when you think of the color red? Fire Trucks? Apples? Fire? Sports cars? Strawberries? Love? Passion? Heat? Heart?

Of all the colors red brings the strongest emotions and the most attention. That’s why many designers will add just a touch red in a design to bring the viewers attention to a certain focal point within the design.

Think back to your childhood. Remember how your teacher always used a red pen to mark your mistakes? How did you feel? At the heart of this was to bring attention so you don’t make the mistake again but in reality seeing those red pen marks probably sparked a strong emotion in you.

Let’s take a look at the emotions that are associated with the color red:

Excitement
Love
Sex
Energy
Passion
Strength
Courage
Attention
Danger
Anger

That’s a pretty intense list. Something to consider as you explore the color red for your branding. The color red might be your signature color when it comes to your style but will it resonate well in the message you want to send to potential customers?

Here is a list of industries that the color red would be effective in:

Entertainment
Food
Sports
Fire Protection
Children Products
Beauty (unless it’s a natural beauty line)

Here are some well known companies that have used the color red in their branding:

Target
Nintendo
Coca-Cola
Netflix
ESPN

The main thing about the using color red, is to use it wisely. Physically the color red can increase the viewer’s heart rate and raise their blood pressure. Using too much red can be overwhelming to your customer. Choosing a red that has hints of blue (a calm color) is a smart move when considering using red as a dominant part of your branding. See how much calmer these burgundy and plum colors are?

Always consider the emotions that a color invokes. Are these the same emotions you would want associated with your brand? It’s a very important piece to consider.

Be sure to come back next week, when we explore the color orange.

Until next time,

Karri

Want to view all posts in this series, check them out by clicking the links:

Beginning Color Wheel

All photos are from Pinterest. Visit my Mood Board Pinterest board for credit.