How to Use Colour Psychology in Motion Graphics

When crafting a motion graphics project, the choice of colours can greatly influence how audiences interpret and emotionally connect with your music. Colour psychology—the study of how hues impact feelings and behaviours—provides a powerful framework for designing impactful lyric videos.

Understanding the Emotional Language of Colours

Every colour evokes specific emotions. For instance, red is often associated with passion, intensity, or even danger, making it perfect for music with bold, emotional lyrics. In contrast, blue conveys calmness and introspection, aligning beautifully with reflective ballads or ethereal melodies. Yellow, a symbol of energy and positivity, suits upbeat, feel-good tracks, while darker shades like black or grey might underscore heavier, sombre themes.

Using Gradients to Reflect Emotional Journeys

A well-designed lyric video can mimic the narrative arc of a song. For example, transitioning from muted, monochrome tones to vibrant colours as the music crescendos can visually represent an emotional breakthrough. Similarly, using darker colours during verses and brighter ones during a euphoric chorus reinforces the emotional journey for the viewer.

Reinforcing Your Brand Identity

Colour isn’t just a design choice—it’s a branding tool. Consistently using a specific colour palette across your motion graphics, album art, and social media platforms helps solidify your brand in the minds of your audience. Think of iconic artists like Billie Eilish, whose neon green accents have become part of her visual identity.