Techniques to improve detection and security of images, including formation and detection of matrix-based images. Some techniques include detecting a matrix-based image that is optimized for detection in a particular environment. The matrix-based image may be a matrix bar code. The matrix bar code may include a plurality of non-black and non-white colors, where each one of the plurality of non-black and non-white colors are at least one of an absent color in relation to the environment and a least prevalent color associated with the environment.