”Embrace light. Admire it. Love it. But above all, know light. Know it for all you are worth, and you will know the key to photography.” – George Eastman
As a photographer, how do you create a backlit picture? It is done in camera because backlighting is a controlled technique in which the light is positioned behind or at a right angle to the subject. As Ann-Christine says, “Backlighting is dramatic. It often creates silhouettes, yellow halos around the subject, and/or a brilliantly bright background.” It also produces effects such as depth behind the subject or dramatic contrast.
Notice the backlighting and direction of light on the lily with the light coming from the upper right side.
The sun is backlighting these daisies from above and shining through the petals, creating a lovely translucent appearance.
By backlighting the side of the butterfly and flower, the light outlines the subject and is producing halos and creating a dramatic affect.
“In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary.” – Aaron Rose
Backlighting can be used to created silhouettes as seen in these next two examples.
“Nature is so powerful, so strong. Capturing its essence is not easy – your work becomes a dance with light and the weather. It takes you to a place within yourself.” – Annie Leibovitz
The position of the sun in these last pictures shows how backlight can provide interesting backgrounds and accent the subject.
Hope you have enjoyed seeing these pictures and be sure to check out Ann’s beautiful post by clicking here.
Please be safe and stay healthy!
“Today, give a stranger one of your smiles. It might be the only sunshine they see all day.” – Catherine Pulsifer