Technique
Unique in this list, as it does not cast any light onto the subject, a background light in studio photography creates visual interest behind the subject. The final element in a standard four-light studio set-up, there are many ways to position these, depending on the desired effect. When working in a studio with a plain backdrop, you can use a background light to create a gradient. Pointing a narrow, circular light source behind your subject will cast a radial gradient behind the subject, creating a vignette effect in the background that guides the eye to the centre. If you’re looking to create a moodier look with less fill on the subject, then the background light could balance the overall aesthetic by only lighting one half of the backdrop, which will invert the lighting pattern seen on the subject. What Is a Background Light?
Want to Learn More?
Head to Learning Centre!
This is from Learning Centre, our online education resource. It’s full of articles just like this, designed to help you get better
images with your Fujifilm camera.
FUJIFILM Focus Magazine 29
Summer 2025
Powered by FlippingBook