Color Palettes in Writing (Holly Schindler)

 Last fall, I took a ton of pictures just like this one: 

Color's one of those things that seems like a no-brainer until you're in the midst of an illustrative project. And then finding the right mix can seem nearly impossible.

For illustration, I find my color palettes are often better if I take them from real life. So I take pictures like this one--they're all over my phone. I haven't used this particular picture yet, but think it would be great for a pattern--maybe a paisley that actually looks like falling leaves? 

I've begun to wonder if this is true of writing, too--and have started keeping a journal where I jot down weird observations. I keep thinking ripped-from-life content will liven up my writing. Make it seem natural and true. 

I've been thinking maybe it would be helpful to use these observations like color palettes. 

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Holly Schindler is the author of The Junction of Sunshine and Lucky