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.

Because of the glare (or flare), a lens hood may be used.