Extract harmonious color palettes from photographs and build swatch libraries for design projects using Photoshop's color tools.

Step 1: Source Image

Open an inspiring photograph with strong colors — sunset, forest, or urban scene.

Step 2: Extract with Eyedropper

Use Eyedropper Tool (I) to sample 5 dominant colors. Click to set foreground color.

Step 3: Create Swatch Strip

New document 800×200px. Draw 5 rectangles, each filled with a sampled color.

Step 4: Add Hex Labels

Type tool: label each swatch with hex code (e.g. #e85d04) below each block.

Step 5: Test Combinations

Create a test layout using only palette colors. Verify contrast and readability.

Step 6: Save Swatches

Window > Swatches. Click New Swatch for each color. Save swatch library as .aco file.

Step 7: Share Palette

Export swatch strip as PNG for mood board presentations and client approval.

That's it! You've completed this tutorial. Experiment with the techniques and share your results with the Designstacks community.