- What is backlighting? Characteristics and how to use backlighting in photography
- February 26, 2025
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
TAMRON 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 (Model A047) Focal length: 173mm Exposure: F6.3 Shutter Speed: 1/1000sec ISO: 100
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
TAMRON 90mm F2.8 MACRO (Model F072) Focal length: 90mm Exposure: F16 Shutter Speed: 1/1000sec ISO: 800
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
TAMRON 17-50mm F4 (Model A068) Focal length: 23mm Exposure: F11 Shutter Speed: 1/20sec ISO: 200
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)
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
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
TAMRON 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 (Model A047) Focal length: 300mm Exposure: F6.3 Shutter Speed: 1/320sec ISO: 800
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
TAMRON 20-40mm F2.8 (Model A062) Focal length: 32mm Exposure: F11 Shutter Speed: 1/320sec ISO: 100
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
TAMRON 11-20mm F2.8 (Model B060) Focal length: 20mm Exposure: F2.8 Shutter Speed: 1/6000sec ISO: 500
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
TAMRON 11-20mm F2.8 (Model B060) Focal length: 20mm Exposure: F2.8 Shutter Speed: 1/6000sec ISO: 500
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.
Lens Featured in this Impression
70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD (Model A047)
The 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD (Model A047) for full-frame mirrorless cameras is a telephoto zoom lens designed and created so photographers of all skill levels can enjoy high quality images comfortably. The 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 covers a broad telephoto zoom range yet is the small and lightest weight. With special emphasis on resolving power, TAMRON has deployed special lens elements appropriately arranged to correct chromatic aberration, generally very strong in a telephoto lens, as well as other aberrations. Users can enjoy high-resolution images combined with stunning bokeh qualities that are achievable only with a telephoto lens. The lens also incorporates the RXD, a high-speed precision AF drive system that is remarkably quiet. The 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 is a versatile lens for photographing landscapes, sports and other action, pets, wildlife, and more. The lens also demonstrates its potential for portrait shooting, casual snapshots, and scenarios that require you to be mobile and shoot handheld, like sporting events.
Learn more
90mm F/2.8 Di III MACRO VXD (Model F072)
The 90mm F/2.8 Di III MACRO VXD (Model F072) is the mirrorless version of the TAMRON 90mm macro lens, beloved for many years. It offers outstanding resolution and optical performance, featuring TAMRON’s first 12-blade circular aperture for stunning bokeh and starburst effects. Its lightweight, compact design ensures easy portability, and the new hood with sliding window simplifies filter use. The lens is also compatible with TAMRON Lens Utility™ and has high-speed, high-precision AF, expanding possibilities for photography and videography. This lens blends TAMRON's legacy of brilliance with advanced technology, marking a new chapter in the 90mm macro lens history.
Learn more
17-50mm F/4 Di III VXD (Model A068)
It's the world’s first lens covering from ultra wide-angle 17mm to the standard 50mm focal length. The highly-compact TAMRON 17-50mm F/4 Di III VXD (Model A068) for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras offers maximum versatility for still and video creators. From landscapes to living rooms, this lens captures all that you see.
Learn more
20-40mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A062)
The 20-40mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A062) is a new large-aperture standard zoom lens that thoroughly pursues portability. While covering the range from the ultra-wide angle of 20mm to the standard range of 40mm, it is the smallest and lightest in its class. It also offers high image quality throughout the entire zoom range, making it useful not only for still image shooting but also for video recording such as vlogging. The VXD, which is quiet and agile, achieves high-speed, high-precision autofocusing. It is a new, unprecedented large-aperture standard zoom lens that allows users to easily enjoy taking out and shooting both still and video.
Learn more
11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD (Model B060)
11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD (Model B060) is the world's first compact, lightweight F2.8 ultra wide-angle zoom lens for Sony E-mount APS-C mirrorless cameras. Can be a great choice for video shooting.
Learn more