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Color Picker

Pick and convert colors between different formats, generate palettes, and check contrast compliance

Pick a Color

Click above to pick any color

Color Formats

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Understanding Digital Color: From Theory to Practice

Color is one of the most powerful tools in visual design. Our color picker helps you master the technical side of color selection while understanding the creative principles that make colors work together. Whether you're designing a website, creating brand materials, or developing a user interface, understanding color formats and harmonies is essential for professional-quality work.

Color Format Deep Dive

HEX Colors

Hexadecimal color codes are the most common format for web development. Each HEX code consists of six characters representing red, green, and blue values.

  • Format: #RRGGBB
  • Example: #FF5733
  • Range: 00 to FF per channel
  • Total colors: 16.7 million
  • Best for: CSS, HTML, SVG

RGB Colors

RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is an additive color model where colors are created by combining light at different intensities. This is how screens display color.

  • Format: rgb(R, G, B)
  • Example: rgb(255, 87, 51)
  • Range: 0 to 255 per channel
  • Supports alpha: rgba()
  • Best for: CSS, JavaScript

HSL Colors

HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness) represents colors in a way that's more intuitive for humans. It's perfect for creating color variations and adjusting brightness.

  • Format: hsl(H, S%, L%)
  • Example: hsl(9, 100%, 60%)
  • Hue: 0-360 degrees
  • Saturation & Lightness: 0-100%
  • Best for: Color manipulation

Color Harmony Principles

Complementary Colors

Colors directly opposite each other on the color wheel create maximum contrast and visual impact. Ideal for making elements stand out and creating energetic designs.

When to Use:

  • Call-to-action buttons
  • Drawing attention to key elements
  • Creating visual excitement
  • Sports and athletic branding

Examples:

  • Blue & Orange
  • Red & Green
  • Purple & Yellow
  • Red-Orange & Blue-Green

Analogous Colors

Three colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel create harmonious, comfortable designs. These palettes feel natural and peaceful, making them perfect for cohesive branding.

When to Use:

  • Nature and organic brands
  • Creating serene atmospheres
  • Subtle, sophisticated designs
  • Background color schemes

Examples:

  • Blue, Blue-Green, Green
  • Red, Red-Orange, Orange
  • Yellow-Green, Yellow, Yellow-Orange
  • Violet, Blue-Violet, Blue

Triadic Colors

Three colors evenly spaced around the color wheel create vibrant, balanced designs with high contrast while maintaining color harmony. This is a favorite among designers for its versatility.

When to Use:

  • Playful, youthful designs
  • Diverse content sections
  • Children's products
  • Creative industries

Examples:

  • Red, Yellow, Blue
  • Orange, Green, Violet
  • Yellow-Orange, Blue-Green, Red-Violet
  • Red-Orange, Yellow-Green, Blue-Violet

Monochromatic Colors

Variations of a single hue using different saturations and lightness values create elegant, cohesive designs. This is the safest approach for beginners and creates a sophisticated look.

When to Use:

  • Minimalist designs
  • Professional presentations
  • Luxury and premium brands
  • Single-focus layouts

Technique:

  • Keep same hue value
  • Vary lightness: 20%, 50%, 80%
  • Adjust saturation for depth
  • Use tints, tones, and shades

Practical Application Guide

Web Design

  • Primary color: Main brand color for headers and CTAs
  • Secondary color: Complementary or analogous for variety
  • Accent color: High contrast for important buttons
  • Neutral palette: Grays for text and backgrounds
  • Success/Error: Green and red for states

Brand Identity

  • Logo colors: 1-3 colors maximum for versatility
  • Extended palette: 5-7 colors for full guidelines
  • Tints & shades: Variations for different contexts
  • Print versions: Test CMYK conversions
  • Consistency: Document exact values

UI Components

  • Buttons: High contrast, clear hierarchy
  • Links: Distinct from body text
  • Hover states: 10-20% darker/lighter
  • Disabled states: Lower saturation, opacity
  • Focus indicators: WCAG compliant outlines

Accessibility First

  • AA standard: 4.5:1 ratio for normal text
  • AAA standard: 7:1 ratio for enhanced readability
  • Large text: 3:1 ratio minimum (18pt+)
  • Color blindness: Don't rely on color alone
  • Dark mode: Test both light and dark themes

Quick Reference: The 60-30-10 Rule

Professional designers often use this proportion guideline for balanced color schemes:

60% - Dominant Color

Your main color, typically used for backgrounds and large areas. Usually a neutral or subdued tone.

30% - Secondary Color

Supporting color for visual interest. Can be more vibrant than your dominant color.

10% - Accent Color

Pop of color for CTAs and focal points. Should create maximum contrast and draw attention.

Professional Color Selection Tips

  • Start with a single base color that represents your brand personality
  • Use our palette generator to explore different harmony types
  • Test colors on actual devices - screens display colors differently
  • Save your palette using the history feature for consistency
  • Always check contrast ratios before finalizing text colors
  • Consider cultural color meanings for global audiences
  • Use HSL for creating tints (add white) and shades (add black)
  • Document your exact color values in a style guide