Value

Value is the relative light or darkness of a surface. Contrasts in value allow us to see lines and shapes, sense of depth and dimension, and perceive surface textures.

Darker tones recede and give the sensation of heaviness. Lighter tones precede and give the sensation of light-weight.

Value Scale: A representation of tones gradating between pure black and white.

Value Keys: The full spectrum of value is rarely used within a composition, and closely related values are intentionally selected instead.

• ‍Low-Key: Compositions utilizing mostly black to gray values. Low-Key compositions convey an atmosphere of gloom or mystery.‍
• Mid-Key: Compositions utilizing mostly mid-tone gray values.‍
• High-Key: Compositions utilizing mostly gray to white values. High-Key compositions may convey an atmosphere of serenity or clearer understanding.

Value Pattern: The arrangement and amount of variation in light and dark. This can impact the underlying movement, tension, and system on which the subject is built and reinforces the subject.

Strong designs have both a point of emphasis and harmony throughout the composition. By systematically setting up compositions into ratios of 6:3:1 there are only 6 possible configurations of light, mid-tone, and dark values.

• High Key Tonal Value Pattern with a dark accent.
• High Key Tonal Value Pattern with a mid-tone accent.
• Mid Key Tonal Value Pattern with a dark accent.
• Mid Key Tonal Value Pattern with a light accent.
• Low Key Tonal Value Pattern with a mid-tone accent.
• Low Key Tonal Value Pattern with a light accent.

Every color has an achromatic tonal value. Humans typically register a color’s value with the hue, and designers are more acutely aware of the interactions between colors their values.