Contre-jour is a photographic technique, also known as backlighting, in which the camera is pointed directly toward the light source. This method creates striking effects, often silhouetting the subject against a bright background and emphasizing outlines, shapes, and mood. Contre-jour can produce dramatic images with high contrast between light and shadow, and is commonly used in portrait, landscape, and fine art photography to convey atmosphere, depth, and visual impact. Proper exposure and careful handling of highlights are essential to achieve the desired artistic effect.