Generally a medium tone background is best for light dresses. If it is too dark, the tones in the dress will probably be lost; if too light, the figure may be lost in the background, but better gradation may result. Of course, much depends on the lighting; with a flat front light suitable for hard, thin laces with a bad outline, the background will appear lighter, and with the light behind the figure it will be darker. Photographers usually have at least two graduated backgrounds, the middle tint of one being equal to the lightest tint of the other. The backgrounds should be in a neutral tint, otherwise it is difficult to gauge their effect. A good plan is to get a dull plaster cast and photograph against sheets of paper of various tones.