"Subtractive color mixing" is a concept you may already be subconsciously familiar with. It describes the process by which colors are created by mixing pigments or paints that absorb light. Imagine you are in a room with colorful walls. The colors of the walls are determined by the way they absorb and reflect light. This is subtractive color mixing in action.
How does subtractive color mixing work?
Unlike additive color mixing, where light sources are combined, subtractive mixing involves removing light. For example, if you place two color filters on top of each other, some of the light is absorbed by each filter, and the resulting color is a product of that absorption.
Primary colors are the basic colors of a specific color model. Which colors are considered primary depends on the application: RYB uses red, yellow, and blue... Click to learn more . The primary colors of subtractive color mixing are cyan, magenta, and yellow (CMY). These colors work together to create a wide variety of other colors. In printing, black is often added ( CMYK) . CMYK stands for cyan, magenta, yellow, and key, or black. The CMYK color model is a subtractive color model for four-color printing, where inks are mixed with paper... Click to learn more.
A simple comparison
Imagine you have a bucket of water (the light) and you add different inks (the pigments) one after the other. Each ink absorbs certain parts of the light spectrum. The result is a new color in the water—just like in subtractive color mixing.
Everyday examples of subtractive color mixing
- Printer inks: Every time you print something with an inkjet printer, you're using subtractive color mixing. The printer cartridges contain cyan, magenta, and yellow (and often black) to produce a wide range of colors on paper.
- Art painting: Artists use subtractive color mixing when they blend different shades of color on a canvas. Combining pigments absorbs light, resulting in new colors.
- Stained glass windows: These windows use the principle of subtractive color mixing by blocking parts of the light spectrum and thus allowing colored light into the room.
- Photography: Analog photography uses color negatives developed by subtractive color mixing. The chemicals on the film react to light and create colors through absorption.
Why is subtractive color mixing important?
For companies and startups, understanding how color works is crucial, especially when it comes to branding . Branding is the conscious, strategic building of a brand. It determines how your company is perceived, what people recognize it by, and why they trust it... Click to learn more . Colors influence emotions and purchasing decisions; they are a powerful tool in the marketing arsenal. Have you ever noticed how many fast-food chains use red? That's because red stimulates the appetite!
Influence on branding
A clever use of color can help make your brand recognizable and build an emotional connection with your customers. Understanding how subtractive color mixing works allows you to be more deliberate with printed materials and ensure your brand colors are always consistent . Brand colors – what's actually behind this term? Simply put, brand colors are the specific colors a company uses to visually represent its identity.
Tips for working with subtractive color mixing
- Pay attention to consistency: Always use the same CMYK values for your printing materials to avoid color variations.
- Know your materials: Different types of paper can affect the perception of colors, so always test first.
- Learn from the pros: Look at how established brands use color and consider what you can adopt from them.
Personal thoughts
In my work, I've learned that color is more than just aesthetics. It's a means of communication. The right choice of color can tell stories and evoke emotions. When I work on projects or advise clients, these considerations are central. At Berger+Team, we apply our knowledge every day and are happy to help you.
