Back lighting techniques are often used in nature photography.
Back-lit photos feature a background of light that is much brighter than the object in the picture. This bright light creates a contrast between the object in focus and the background. If you wish to take photographs of graphics, in the form of normal objects or graphic representations such as a sign, you can use back-lighting to make the graphic pop. Use signs and graphics that are dark in color for the best contrast.
Instructions
1. Determine which area of the photograph you want to be properly exposed. A properly exposed object appears its normal color and hue.
2. Place the graphic on a stable object, if you are using a graphic such as wooden letters or a cardboard sign. If necessary, tape the graphic to an object using clear tape.
3. Hold a light meter over the portion of the image you want in focus. Point the light meter toward the camera rather than toward the object if you want the object lit. If you want the background lit, point the light meter toward the source of light.
4. Turn the camera to the appropriate f-stop and shutter speed as noted on the light meter.
5. Point the camera toward the object and hold the camera steady. Press the shutter release button to take the picture.
6. Examine the picture if you are using a digital camera. If you want the picture less illuminated, turn the f-stop up one or two stops. If you want the picture more illuminated, turn the f-stop down one or two stops.
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