> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://bnpr.gitbook.io/bnpr/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://bnpr.gitbook.io/bnpr/outline/black-outline.md).

# Black outline

Unless your style demands it, **never** use `#000000` **BLACK** color as a outline color. Not only a black line aesthetically boring, black outline is:

1. uninspiring
2. not thoughtful
3. too high contrast when the scene is bright
4. too low contrast when the scene is dark

{% hint style="info" %}

### The function of an outline

1. provide separation between subject from the background
2. provide a hint to the type of material the line is on
3. with line style (on Freestyle), line provides style & the emotional state of the artwork
   {% endhint %}

![With black outline, monkey looks harsh and generic](https://2178109540-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MLUy2H1mYN4QeaSWpm7%2F-MLV8rBQFjVUkPvY8PY-%2F-MLVCcMLfWRbNlht4juM%2FblackOutline.png?alt=media\&token=b466906a-6e04-4855-b35f-f817fba1b3eb)

![without black outline, monkey looks softer and hinting on the object's material](https://2178109540-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MLUy2H1mYN4QeaSWpm7%2F-MLV8rBQFjVUkPvY8PY-%2F-MLVCmf5uvBzHeHz4HU7%2FnotBlackOutline.png?alt=media\&token=1fddad98-98af-412b-b1bb-9b9138fb4ba6)