What is backlighting? Characteristics and how to use backlighting in photography

Backlighting photography significantly expands the range of photographic expression. It may seem challenging at first, but by understanding the characteristics of backlighting and using the correct settings, even beginners can capture stunning images. This article provides a detailed explanation of the basics of backlighting and scenes where backlighting is effective.

What is backlighting? Types of light direction

In photography, light direction is generally categorized into three types: "front lighting" where light comes from the camera side, "side lighting" where light comes from the side, and "backlighting" where light comes from behind the subject.
Among these, backlighting creates a unique atmosphere and can result in striking expressions. Especially during early morning or at dusk, the soft light at these times greatly enhances the effects of backlighting. This light gently envelops the subject, creating a warm and ethereal atmosphere.

Characteristics of backlighting

One of the main attractions of backlighting is its ability to emphasize the subject's outline and the light itself. As light scatters around the edges of the subject, it creates a sparkling rim of light, causing the subject to appear mysteriously highlighted. For example, in portraits, backlighting can make hair appear to glow, or in plant photography, leaves may appear translucent, creating a sense of purity and transparency.
However, since the light is coming from behind the subject, the front of the subject often appears dark. In portraiture, facial expressions may be hard to see, and in landscape photography, details in the shadowed parts of the scene might be lost. In these cases, exposure compensation can be applied, or deliberately lowering the exposure can emphasize silhouettes.

Backlighting-specific expressions

Here, we introduce two representative ways to use backlighting. By adjusting the exposure and other settings, you can create entirely different impressions with the same backlight.

Emphasizing the silhouette

By setting the exposure to a darker value, you can isolate the subject as a black silhouette. This is especially effective for subjects with distinctive shapes, such as people, buildings, or trees. The contrast between the bright background light and the dark silhouette creates a dramatic effect. Look for compositions where the contours of the subject are emphasized, such as during sunset in urban landscapes or portraits.

Creating warm and soft light effects

Setting the exposure to a brighter value will wrap the subject in soft light, creating a gentle and warm atmosphere. This technique works well with translucent subjects like hair or flower petals, highlighting their freshness and delicacy. The gentle light of early morning or evening creates an emotional atmosphere, and this is especially effective when photographing profiles or backs of people in portraits.

Key points for backlighting photography

The impression of backlighting photos can change dramatically depending on how the light is utilized. To capture a captivating shot, keep a few important points in mind.

Decide on the image you want to create

The first step in backlighting photography is to clearly define the final image you want to achieve. For example, do you want to capture the subject as a silhouette, enveloped in soft light, or do you want to preserve the facial expression from the front? By planning this out, you can adjust the camera settings, angle, and composition accordingly.
Also, be mindful of how the quality of light changes depending on the season or time of day. For instance, summer’s strong sunlight and winter’s clear light will create different effects. Similarly, morning light will provide a clearer, more vivid quality, while the dramatic light at sunset will have a different effect. Considering these changes in light quality and intensity will help you plan your shoot.

Exposure setting guidelines

In backlighting photography, exposure settings greatly affect how the subject is portrayed. Here are some basic exposure-related tips.

F-number (Aperture)

The ideal aperture varies depending on the expression you want to achieve. For example, to emphasize a silhouette, an aperture value between F8 and F11 is recommended. If you want to create a softer light effect, use a wider aperture such as F2.8 to F4. Blurring the background will make the subject and the surrounding light stand out more, resulting in a more memorable photo.

Shutter speed

Adjust shutter speed to achieve the desired light effect. For example, if you increase the shutter speed to capture sharpness, exposure may become insufficient, so exposure compensation may be needed to avoid loss of detail in dark areas. Always check the histogram to ensure there is no highlight clipping or shadow blocking.

ISO Sensitivity

To achieve clearer image quality, shooting at a low ISO (ISO 100 to ISO 400) is recommended. This will help minimize noise and retain detail. However, if you need to capture details in the shadowed areas of the subject, increasing the ISO sensitivity is a good option.

Exposure compensation

To capture the shadowed parts clearly, adjust exposure compensation. For instance, if you want to show facial expressions clearly in portraits, increase the exposure compensation. If you want to emphasize the silhouette against the light, decrease the exposure. Additionally, if the background is too bright, using negative compensation can help control the highlights.

Change the impression with white balance

Adjusting the white balance allows you to change the color tones in your image. Typically, you’ll shoot in auto white balance, but fine-tuning it according to your desired effect can significantly enhance the final result.
For example, setting the white balance to "Cloudy" or "Daylight Shade" will emphasize the red tones, giving the image a warm, inviting feel. This is effective for creating a gentle evening atmosphere or capturing portraits beautifully.

Look for a composition that highlights the subject

The way the subject appears can be significantly influenced by the direction, angle, and background of the light. Using basic composition techniques like the rule of thirds or diagonal composition, find a point where the subject can be captured in an impactful way.
If the light source is something strong like the sun, it’s generally better to place it outside the frame to capture the subject beautifully. As you become more experienced, try composing shots where the light source is within the frame. If you’re concerned about flare or ghosting, using a lens hood can help reduce these issues.

Scene-specific shooting techniques

Backlighting is a versatile technique that can be used in a variety of scenes. Below are methods for taking photos in different situations while maximizing the effect of backlighting.

Food photography

The foundation of food photography often involves backlighting or side lighting. When light hits the surface of food, it beautifully highlights the texture and sheen. Transparent subjects, like drinks in a glass or fruit, become especially luminous as the light passes through, enhancing their clarity.
Backlighting and side lighting are essential for conveying depth. Light wrapping around the edges of the dish or ingredients creates depth and gives the food a more appetizing appearance.

Portraits

Backlighting can dramatically enhance portraits by creating an impressionable aura around the subject. Light tracing the outline of the hair or clothes can evoke a rich, emotional atmosphere. However, since the face will be in shadow and expressions might be difficult to see, be sure to apply positive exposure compensation to capture the facial details clearly.
Translucent clothing or flowing hair are especially well-suited to backlighting. Try to experiment with the changing light as the model moves to capture dynamic effects.

Landscapes

Backlighting emphasizes the contours, shapes, and depth of landscapes. Use a wide-angle lens and keep the perspective in mind to create dynamic compositions.
Especially during sunrise or sunset, light reflecting off atmospheric moisture or dust can create beautiful sunrays, adding a mystical touch to landscape photos. Sunlight reflected on water or droplets sparkling on flowers can also make for compelling subjects.

Plants and flowers

In plant photography, backlighting can help bring out the life in your subjects. Light shining from behind leaves or flower petals highlights delicate veins and textures, emphasizing the freshness of the plant.
If you have a macro lens or one with high close-up capabilities, try getting closer. Blurring the background will make the contours of the subject illuminated by light stand out, resulting in a striking image.

Architecture

Shooting architecture in backlight can dramatically highlight the shape and texture of buildings. By positioning the silhouette of the building against the sunrise or sunset, you can create strong contrast.
When photographing buildings, make sure to utilize the geometric shapes by incorporating diagonal compositions or triangular arrangements. The interplay between light and structure will create a compelling image.

Lens technology to suppress ghosting and flare

Backlighting can often lead to ghosting and flare, which are caused by light reflecting inside the lens. These phenomena can be used creatively, but if they occur unintentionally, they can detract from the photo’s atmosphere.
TAMRON lenses use the latest lens coating technology, such as BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) G2 coatings, to significantly reduce light reflections on the lens surface. Advanced optical designs prevent internal reflections, ensuring clear and sharp image capture, even in backlighting situations.

Recommended TAMRON Lenses

TAMRON lenses excel in backlighting conditions due to their unique optical design and coating technology. They effectively suppress ghosting and flare, providing sharp and transparent rendering, making them ideal for capturing beautiful backlit photos in various scenes, including landscapes, portraits, and architecture.

Understanding backlighting and using it to enhance your photography

Backlighting photography is a technique that allows you to creatively express silhouettes or envelop your subjects in warm, soft light. While it may seem challenging, understanding the technique and following simple tips can help beginners capture beautiful photos. Adjust the time of day and seasons to match the light quality you wish to express, and experiment with various ways to convey the beauty of light.