Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

Which color scheme includes only shades of grey?

1. Achromatic

2. Monochromatic

3. Neutral

4. Pastel

The correct answer is: Achromatic

The color scheme that includes only shades of grey is known as achromatic. An achromatic color scheme consists of colors that lack hue, resulting in a range of shades from black to white, including all the greys in between. This scheme focuses on the intensity of light rather than any specific color, allowing for a balanced and sophisticated aesthetic that can highlight texture and form without the influence of color. In contrast, other options feature colors that incorporate hues. Monochromatic refers to variations of a single hue, utilizing different shades, tints, and tones of that hue, which means it can include colors beyond just grey. Neutral colors typically include greys, browns, and tans, but they can also encompass other shades that contain color, whereas pastels are characterized by their soft, light colors that are derived from hues, not just grey. Therefore, the achromatic scheme is distinctly recognized for its exclusive use of grey tones.