Source: https://restorebunny.com/guides/contrast-for-photo-captions-and-labels/ # Check Contrast for Photo Captions and Display Labels Calculate color contrast for readable captions while considering text size and changing photo backgrounds. Color & creative editing2 min readUpdated 16 October 2026 ## Try it on your own photo Repair a copy of your photo, then compare faces and details with the original. [Restore my photo]()1 credit per successful photo · Account required[See credit packs]() Quick answer ## The short version A caption’s color must be evaluated against the background it actually touches. Two opaque sRGB colors can be compared using WCAG relative luminance, but text over a photograph crosses many colors. Choose a controlled text panel when the background varies too much for one reliable pair. ## Define the job before editing A caption’s color must be evaluated against the background it actually touches. Two opaque sRGB colors can be compared using WCAG relative luminance, but text over a photograph crosses many colors. Choose a controlled text panel when the background varies too much for one reliable pair. ## Check the relevant text category For WCAG AA, normal text uses a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 and large text uses 3:1. Large text has a defined size threshold, not simply a label that looks big on your own screen. Evaluate the delivered size and font weight, and retain comfortable spacing. ## Make the decision from evidence Passing a color ratio alone does not establish accessibility for a whole document or website. Reading order, meaningful descriptions and navigation may also matter. For a printed family display, the same calculation is a useful design check but does not model glare, paper or viewing distance. ## A worked planning example Example: A dark caption on a pale solid panel has a predictable contrast pair. The same caption directly over a mixed landscape may disappear in some regions. Add a consistent panel and check the actual chosen colors. ## A practical checklist 1. Identify the final text and background. 2. Use the correct normal or large-text threshold. 3. Avoid uncontrolled photo backgrounds behind small text. 4. Check other accessibility needs separately. ## Keep a traceable result Keep the source file, the working copy and the delivery copy as separate items. Record the input and the changes you actually made so another person can understand the result later. These workflow examples are planning examples, not documented customer outcomes or proof of a successful restoration. ## FAQs Does a passing contrast ratio certify the entire page? No. It checks one color relationship. Other accessibility requirements and the actual text presentation still need review. Should I replace my original with the edited copy? Keep the source unchanged and save a separate working or sharing copy. An export, edit or AI interpretation can omit information that remains useful in the source. ## Sources Preservation and technical guidance reviewed for this article. - W3C WAI: [Understanding WCAG contrast minimum]() ## Related - [Open the related free tool]() - [Extract a Photo Palette for a Family Album]() - [Choose a Strong Reference for Watercolor Photo Art]() - [Browse photo guides]() - [Free image tools]() ## Ready to restore your photos? Upload an image, choose your settings, and preview results with a before/after slider. [Restore my photo]()[View Pricing]() RestoreBunny Source-backed photo workflows Guides follow our [editorial policy]() for sourcing, product claims, AI limitations, updates, and corrections.