Warning: My new site's color scheme cost me a $500 client

I launched a portfolio with a dark gray text on a slightly lighter gray background, thinking it looked sleek. The client said it gave them a headache trying to read my case studies and backed out. Has anyone else lost work over a contrast issue they didn't catch?

3 comments

3 Comments

taylor_barnes592mo ago

My agency's first site had a 45% gray on gray combo that failed a basic contrast check. We now run every design through WebAIM's contrast checker before launch. It catches those subtle fails that look fine to you but strain real users' eyes.

fiona_lewis372mo ago

Gray on gray gets me every time too. That checker is a lifesaver for catching what looks okay in the office but is awful in real light.

alicebarnes12d ago

Did you hear about the study that found most people with migraines are extra sensitive to low contrast text? That probably includes clients, so it's not just an aesthetic thing. Low contrast designs can literally push people away.