Color Scheme for 3D Reconstructions

To facilitate identifying reconstructed objects, we should use a consistent pattern of colors for different components of the neuropil. For example, dendrites should be gray and axons pale green in all reconstructions containing both objects together. Switching colors from image to image will confuse the casual web user.

A potential color scheme for our website reconstructions:

Obviously, not all images on the website will use these color patterns. However, when groups of components (e.g. axons, dendrites, and glial) are shown together this coloring scheme can be used to consistently identify them. When the context is unambiguous an alternative color choice may be warranted, e.g. a reconstruction of an axon alone might be gray rather than green.

Here are some additional guidelines for maintaining a consistent color scheme:

• Reconstructions should be shown on a white or pale gray background.

• Objects should have a dull rather than a shiny or reflective finish. Shiny reflections often take on the light's color rather than staying true to the desired object color.

• A slight amount of texture can be added to some surfaces, usually in the form of a subtle stippled pattern such as that shown in the image below. This type of texture won't causing excessive distractions. On the plus side, the texture completes the matte finish and hides sharp edges between surface patches better than smooth shading.

  
  A stippled texture for a gray surface