Planning tool · Free
A color analysis works out someone's color type, often grouped into seasons, and which colors suit them best. Enter your model's features and you get a palette of shades that make the face come alive, plus the ones to avoid.
Answer four questions about your subject. The checker will suggest the best color palette for clothing and backgrounds.
Presets
Lightroom presets from the masters
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View the presetsBased on seasonal color analysis - a color theory framework popularized in the 1980s. Not a medical or scientific claim; intended as a creative guide.
Color Analysis: how it works
The Color Analysis tool helps you figure out which seasonal color type your model belongs to and which shades suit their skin tone, hair and eyes best. Use it when you want to brief a stylist, advise on wardrobe choices, or simply prepare a portrait shoot with more intention. Enter your model's features and you get a concrete color palette straight away.
Seasonal color types and what they mean on set
Color analysis uses a system of four seasonal types: spring, summer, fall and winter. Each type has its own warmth and contrast profile, which determines which colors are flattering and which make the skin look dull or washed out.
For photography this translates directly into clothing, background colors and even prop choices. A winter type (high contrast, cool undertone) handles bold red or ice blue well; warm earthy tones drain their presence. A spring type (warm, light) comes alive in soft peach and ivory.
Using color type in your shoot prep
Knowing your model's type before the shoot lets you write a much more specific styling brief. Instead of "wear something colorful", you can name exact shades that work, with a palette as a visual reference.
It also helps when choosing locations or studio backgrounds. A summer type benefits from muted, cool backdrops; an autumn type asks for warm, broken tones. If you want to align your color grading with the model's type as well, the Camera Styles tool is a useful next step.
Frequently asked questions
Which color type causes the most problems when the styling is off?
Winter types are the most sensitive, because their high-contrast look falls apart quickly with the wrong clothing colors. Warm or muted tones steal the sharpness from the face. Summer types are the most forgiving.
Does color analysis work for male models too?
Yes, the seasonal system applies regardless of gender. The types are based on skin tone, hair color and eye color only.
How do I match a color palette to actual clothing on shoot day?
Bring the palette as a reference card when going through the wardrobe on location. Hold each garment next to it and you can see within seconds whether the tone matches. It is faster than trying to describe colors verbally.