From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Contre-jour is French for 'against the light', 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.
