A guide to mastering the art of cinematic backlighting techniques for captivating portraits

Backlighting is the lighting technique that produces light from behind an object or character in the scene, rather than being placed in front of it. It can be used effectively to highlight objects or characters and add depth to a composition. In cinematography, backlighting is commonly referred to as rim lighting because it creates a glow around the edges of the subject, often emphasizing their physical features like the hairline, eyelashes, shoulders, and arms. Backlighting can also be used for more dramatic effect, such as silhouetting bodies against a dark background or creating halos of light around them. This creates a dreamlike or spiritual effect and adds mystery and artistry to the image. The most popular types of backlighting are broad, narrow, and soft. Broad backlighting illuminates the entire subject while narrow backlighting focuses on just part of it. Soft backlighting uses diffuse light sources such as neon tubes or candles to create a warm and inviting feel. Backlighting is frequently used to silhouette bodies or create halos of light, producing a dreamlike or spiritual effect. For example, if you want to shoot a portrait at dusk, you might consider using broad backlighting to capture the atmosphere and mood of the setting. You could position your subject facing away from the camera with a bright window or sky behind them, creating a silhouette effect. Alternatively, you might use narrow backlighting to accentuate specific details on their face, body, or clothing. Whatever approach you choose, ensure that the light source is placed far enough away so that it doesn't cast any shadows on the subject. Additionally, try to avoid direct sunlight in your backlight to avoid harsh shadows and hotspots on the skin. Overall, backlighting is an effective way to add depth and interest to a scene by highlighting objects or characters without directly illuminating them. With careful planning and execution, it can help create stunning visual effects and evoke powerful emotions in viewers.