A method is provided for encoding a latent image having at least two color components into a visible image. A first and second image associated with first and second color components, respectively, are generated. The first image has a first pattern of elements and the second image has a second pattern of elements that are manipulated based on a corresponding color component provided in the latent image. A first and a second angle are assigned to the first image and the second image, respectively. The first image and second image are aligned by orienting the first pattern of elements according to the first angle and second angle, respectively. The aligned first image and second image are superimposed to render an encoded image that is decoded using a decoder that simultaneously display the first color component and the second color component of the latent image to present a color composite image.