Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

How does projecting a gel on a black background affect the light?

1. It creates a pastel look

2. It gives a richer, deeper look

3. It minimizes brightness

4. It enhances sharpness

The correct answer is: It gives a richer, deeper look

Projecting a gel on a black background significantly impacts the quality and appearance of the light. When a gel is used, it alters the color of the light that emanates from the source. By placing this colored light against a black background, the color's vibrancy is enhanced, resulting in a richer, deeper look. The black background absorbs light, preventing any reflections that can sometimes wash out colors, hence allowing the gel's hues to stand out more strikingly. The contrast created by the black background helps emphasize the depth of the colors, making them appear more saturated and intense.