Color: The color palette is dominated by a strong contrast between darkness and the radiant gleam of gold. Dark hues create a sense of drama and mystery. This creates a stark contrast and focuses attention on the gold itself. The restrained color palette further contributes to the striking visual impact.
Lighting: The lighting is dramatic and often directional, highlighting the texture and shine of the gold. The light is almost always used to make the gold look stunning. The interplay between light and shadow contributes to a sense of depth and dimensionality.
Design Technique: The use of gold as a transformative element is the key design technique. Whether it's turning a knight into a gilded statue, an astronaut into a submerged, gold-plated figure, or simply highlighting a treasure hoard, the gold adds a layer of visual complexity and otherworldly beauty. The compositions are carefully arranged to showcase the gold.