Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

Tones are created by adding both black and white to any what on the color wheel?

1. shade

2. hue

3. tint

4. primary color

The correct answer is: hue

The concept of tones in color theory relates specifically to hue, which is essentially the pure color that you see on the color wheel. When black and white are added to a hue, the resulting variations create different tones. Adding white will lighten the hue, producing a tint, while adding black will darken it, producing a shade. However, both processes refer to altering the original hue. The distinction is important because understanding tones allows photographers and artists to create depth and dimension in their work. Without manipulating hues, the overall composition may lack contrast and interest. Thus, focusing on hues as the starting point for creating tones provides a foundational understanding of how to modify colors effectively in photography and visual arts.