Colour Swatches - Vietnam Guidebook

In order to begin the design process of the book, I thought I would sample some of the colours from the images provided to me with the content of the book. In order to begin to develop a visual style for the book that is consistent and representative of the content, while remaining appropriate to its format.  

Swatch 1

Within the first swatch samples, I tried to gather up the colours that most stood out but also the natural and earthy tones. I wanted to highlight these tones within the image, because of the scenery within the area Sapa are based on these hues.

Swatch 2

This colour scheme would work more successfully than the last one as it does not contain as many lighter tonnes. These hues also work better together as there are more complimentary and therefore would work out better for a double page spread and to tie the book together as whole, giving the book a consistent visual identity. This could also be used for text alongside the images, as the colours change with the images on each of the spreads, each page would require a different swatch.

Swatch 3

Within this swatch, I wanted to explore the more vibrant colours within the images from the content I received. This was the brightest of the images so I selected the vibrant pinks, greens and blues evident in the almost iridescent blades. This would be interesting as it was colours that could be found in some parts of the region but not within the landscape itself; thus creating an inquisitive nature for the user to want to go and find out more about the origins of the design.

Swatch 4

Within my final exploration, I mixed elements from all of the previous swatches. This captures the neutrals and earthy tones of the landscape, whilst highlighting some of the vibrancy of the life that is there. This contrast could be a good visual aspect to include to show that it is important to take into consideration the life that is there not just nature and surroundings. This would in fit the themes of the rest of the book as it is about finding a cultural and emotional journey, although the mix of the colours may be confusing to the audience and it may take away from the minimal editorial style I was aiming for.