Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

Which type of colors is formed by adding colored light to black?

1. Additive

2. Subtractive

3. Complementary

4. Analogous

The correct answer is: Additive

The formation of colors by adding colored light to black is known as additive color mixing. This process begins with black, which is the absence of light, and introduces various wavelengths of light. When light of different colors is combined, the result is an increase in brightness and a new color that can be perceived by the human eye. For example, combining red and green light will produce yellow light. The primary colors in additive mixing are red, green, and blue, which can be combined in various ways to create a wide spectrum of colors. This principle is foundational in various applications, such as computer screens and stage lighting, where light colors are combined to create vibrant images and effects. In contrast, subtractive color mixing involves the removal of light; colors are combined using pigments or dyes, and the process begins with white light, removing certain wavelengths to create colors. Understanding additive color mixing is crucial for photographers and visual artists, particularly when working with digital media and light-based installations.