Contre-jour

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An example of a contre-jour photo.

Contre-jour is used to emphasize the outline of the man and the tunnel entrance in this photo.

Contre-jour is French for 'against daylight', referring to photographs taken when the camera is pointing towards the light source.

Contre-jour has the effect making the subject backlit; this will usually hide details, cause a stronger contrast between light and dark, and emphasize line and shape. The sun, or other light source, is often seen as either a bright spot or as a strong glare behind the subject, but this is not necessary. Fill light may be used to illuminate the side of the subject towards the camera.

[edit] See also

• Silhouette

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