What is the purpose of using backlighting in photography?

Using backlighting in photography serves to enhance the texture and shape of subjects by illuminating them from behind. When the light source is positioned behind the subject, it creates a halo effect that can add depth and dimension. This technique can also emphasize outlines, making the subject stand out against the brighter background, which can result in a more visually striking image.

Backlighting can be particularly effective in capturing details such as the delicate veins of leaves or the translucence of certain materials, which might otherwise go unnoticed. This approach not only reveals form and structure but can also evoke emotional responses through the interplay of light and shadow.

The other choices do not align with the primary purposes of backlighting. Creating a flat image, completely darkening the image, or avoiding the highlighting of the subject do not capture the essence of what backlighting aims to achieve. Instead, backlighting is all about revealing the intricacies and characteristics of a subject in an engaging and aesthetically pleasing way.