1. Use analogous & complementary relationships.

“All colors are the friends of their neighbors and the lovers of their opposites”.   - Chagall

In this case, “Friends” stands for analogous colors: side by side on a color wheel. "Lovers" are complementary colors: directly opposite each other on the wheel.

2. Match text or graphics with your image to make sure your work is cohesive.

Sample colors directly from your photo to make a quick, easy and effective palette. Try Photocopa: upload your image, explore the different hues that make it up, and build a stunning color palette.

3. Stick to three or four colors.

Keep your graphics looking clean, and not too overwhelming. If you think there’s just something that isn’t working, ask yourself if you can cut down the number of colors in your palette  -- ideally to just three.