More information is available on the Low Vision lighting leaflet. Contrast Contrast is how much something stands out from the background. For example, it is hard to see a white plate on a white table because it does not contrast with the background. It would be easier, for instance, to see a white plate on a green tablecloth. Many people who have low vision find it hard to see things that are poorly contrasted with the background.
Most people find it hard to see things in 'visually cluttered' areas.
For example, looking for a teaspoon on a multi-coloured tablecloth might prove difficult. It is usually easier to see things when they are placed on a plain background. Most people with low vision see larger things more easily than small objects - they may be able to read large print, rather than ordinary print. However, people with 'tunnel vision' may prefer looking at small things, which can be viewed within their frame of vision. These are magnifiers that make things look bigger and therefore easier to see.