Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

Which color scheme uses varying shades of a single hue?

1. Split-complementary

2. Achromatic

3. Monochromatic

4. Complimentary

The correct answer is: Monochromatic

The color scheme that utilizes varying shades of a single hue is known as monochromatic. This approach involves selecting one base color and then incorporating its different shades, tints, and tones, which means adjusting the brightness or saturation while maintaining the hue. For instance, if the base color is blue, a monochromatic scheme might include navy blue, sky blue, and light blue. Monochromatic schemes are effective because they create a cohesive and harmonious look, making them popular in design and artistic compositions. The lack of contrasting colors helps convey a calm and unified aesthetic, making it easier to create a strong visual impact with depth and interest through texture, pattern, or variations in tone. In contrast, other schemes mentioned involve combinations of different hues or the absence of color altogether, leading to their distinction from monochromatic. For instance, split-complementary involves a base color and two colors opposite it on the color wheel, while complementary uses colors directly opposite each other. Achromatic refers to the absence of color using only blacks, whites, and grays.