Contre-jour means “against daylight”. In photography, this is a technique in which the camera is pointed directly towards a light source, e.g. the sun, or window light or artificial lights set up for the purpose. The result is back lighting of the subject. This effect usually hides details and has a stronger contrast between light and dark creating silhouettes and emphasizing shadows and shapes. The sun or other bright light source is often seen as a bright glare so if possible hide this behind a tree etc to break this glare. Silhouetting occurs when there is a lighting ratio of 16:1 or more. At a ratio of 8:1 you will get low-key photos which will give you some detail in your dark areas. Careful selection of subject matter is important here, and landscapes are especially good allowing you to create dramatic images. Shooting into the light on foggy, misty mornings and just before sunrise and just after sunset when the sun is just out of your image will get good result. With backlit images you get lovely rim lighting around your subject. Strong backlighting works well with nude bodies creating an almost sculpture effect. Have fun, be creative.
