Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

What type of background enhances the visibility of a silhouette?

1. colorful

2. distracting

3. brightest

4. darkest

The correct answer is: brightest

Choosing the brightest background enhances the visibility of a silhouette because it creates a strong contrast between the light source and the dark shape of the subject. In a silhouette, the subject is rendered in shadow, and when placed against a bright background—such as a sky at sunset or a well-lit wall—the outline of the subject becomes more pronounced and easily recognizable. The brightness draws the viewer's attention to the edges of the silhouette, making it stand out and ensuring that the details of the subject’s shape are visually striking against the lighter backdrop. In contrast, a colorful or distracting background may compete for the viewer's attention and potentially obscure the silhouette, while a dark background can diminish the visual impact of the silhouette, as there may not be enough contrast to clearly define the subject's outline.