Backlighting
Created on : December 14, 2023 13:01
Denotation
The main subject of the picture is given an additional emphasis through the use of backlighting. This light, sometimes referred to as a "hair light," is usually behind the figure and to one side. It creates a rim that highlights the edges of the actor or subject being filmed by illuminating them from behind.
Description
Backlighting in a film is the process of illuminating the subject from behind in lighting design. In other words, the subject is placed between the lighting device and the spectator, who are both facing the same direction. As a result, the subject's edges appear to sparkle while the rest of it appears darker. A natural or artificial light source may be used as the backlight. In a 4-point lighting configuration, the rear light is often positioned precisely behind the subject when artificial. A background light illuminates background objects (such as landscape) whereas a back light illuminates foreground objects from behind.
In the context of lighting design backlighting is frequently referred to as the "hair" or "shoulder light". This may provide an effect similar to an angelic halo around the head. This is occasionally used by film directors to demonstrate the actor's goodness or purity. This technique is frequently used in television productions of soap operas, where it has almost become a cliche of the genre. The kicker and rim light are other names for it.