Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

What is the color temperature of electronic flash typically measured at?

1. 5,000-5,500 K

2. 6,500-8,000 K

3. 2,500-3,500 K

4. 1,000-2,000 K

The correct answer is: 5,000-5,500 K

The color temperature of electronic flash is typically measured at around 5,000 to 5,500 Kelvin. This range is similar to daylight and is often referred to as "daylight balanced." Photographers aim for this color temperature to maintain consistent color rendering when shooting in environments that have natural light and to ensure that the flash complements ambient light without introducing major color casts. Understanding the color temperature of flash is crucial for achieving accurate skin tones and color reproduction in photography. When matching the color temperature of the flash with the light present in the environment, photographers can avoid mismatched colors and ensure a harmonious look in their images. Other ranges, such as 6,500-8,000 K, typically represent cooler light sources, like overcast daylight or shade, which can create a bluish tone. The ranges of 2,500-3,500 K and 1,000-2,000 K fall within warmer light sources, such as incandescent or candlelight, leading to a yellowish or reddish tone that is not characteristic of electronic flash.