Contrast
BackgroundContrast is an element that makes the eye focus automatically. If a foreground object is clearly defined against a background, the eye tends to focus on the contrast.
Complementary colours provide high contrast (opposite to each other on the colour wheel). Also, highly animated contours automatically draw the eye. In like manner, there is a contrast between still and moving objects. That is why animated images on web sites that loop forever are so annoying (the eye keeps jumping over to it).
Contrast as MeaningContrast can be used in a variety of ways to add meaning. For instance, it could illustrate grouping, categories, or a sense of hierarchy. Consider the Figure below and the possible meaning such an image communicates:
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PurposeContrast creates interest, and high contrast can communicate strength while less contrast can be recessive; thus, contrast can also be part of the meaning.
Background ContrastA classic problem of contrast is putting text on a busy background. This dissonance causes havoc with contrast because inevitably, part of the background colour hasn't got enough contrast for the text colour. See the example in the Slideshow below and a possible solution:
Visual DissonanceToo much contrast can cause problems. For instance, certain colour combinations create a visual vibration (e.g. bright red and purple). The following two images provide an example of that.
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