Color in Cartographic Design 69
number of steps in the color sequence may need to be limited (Figure 4.10 and Plate
4.12). ColorBrewer can again assist with choosing colors that are copier-friendly or
print-friendly.
specification sheets
A record should be kept of the colors used and their specifications. ColorBrewer pro-
vides printable “spec sheets” for various color schemes, but one can also design one’s
own sheet that includes typefaces and sizes and line weights.
color esthetics and harmony
A final aspect to consider is the overall harmony of the map.
A map with pleas-
ing color combinations isn’t merely more attractive, it’s easier to read than one with
fIgURe 4.9.
Symbols for a black and white map.
fIgURe 4.10.
If a map is to be reproduced in color as well as black and white, colors must be
chosen carefully; a color map cannot simply be printed or copied in black-and-white without
loss of information. This figure is Plate 4.12 printed in black and white.
70
MaP Design
clashing colors. Check to see that all lettering is visible against its background, that
small areas are easy to see, but not given undue importance, and that there is logic to
the color choices.
sUggestIons foR fURtheR ReAdIng
Brewer, Cynthia A. (1994). Color Use Guidelines for Mapping and Visualization. In Alan M.
MacEachren and D. R. Fraser Taylor (Eds.),
Visualization in Modern Cartography (pp.
123–147). New York: Pergamon.
Brewer, Cynthia A. (2005).
Designing Better Maps: A Guide for GIS Users. Redlands, CA:
ESRI Press.
Brown, Allan, and Feringa, Wim. (2003).
Color Basics for GIS Users. New York: Prentice
Hall.
Dreyfuss, Henry. (1972).
A Symbol Sourcebook. New York: McGraw-Hill.
International Paper Company. (2003).
Pocket Pal (19th ed.). Memphis, TN: Author.
Linford, Chris. (2004).
The Complete Guide to Digital Color: Creative Use of Color in the
Digital Arts. New York: Harper Collins.
Robinson, Arthur. (1967). Psychological Aspects of Color in Cartography.
International
Yearbook of Cartography,
7, 50–61.
73
chapter 5
scale, Compilation,
and generalization
There’s no escape from the cartographic paradox:
to present a
useful
and truthful picture, an accurate map must tell white lies.
—M
ark
M
onmonier
,
How to Lie
with Maps (1996)