Glossary: Backlighting
Illumination cast onto the figures in the scene from the side opposite the camera. Backlighting can be positioned at many angles: high above the figures, at various angles off to the side, pointing straight at the camera, or from below. When not combined with other sources of light, backlighting can create silhouettes. Combined with other sources of light, backlighting can create a thin outline of highlighting on the figures, a technique called edge or rim lighting.
From The Searchers
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Frame 1: Backlighting (silhouette)
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From Schindler's List
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Frame 1: Backlighting (edge lighting)
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