Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Frame Rate • XLR • Sync Generator

Back Light

Term from Television Production industry explained for recruiters

Back Light is a fundamental lighting technique used in television, film, and photography production. It's a light source placed behind the subject (usually a person) that helps separate them from the background, creating depth and a professional look. Think of it as drawing an outline around someone with light - it's what makes people "pop" on screen instead of looking flat. This technique is essential in professional video production, and you might also see it called "rim lighting" or "hair light" when mentioned in resumes or job descriptions.

Examples in Resumes

Set up Back Light, key light, and fill light configurations for daily news broadcasts

Managed Back Light placement for celebrity interviews during award show coverage

Operated Back Light and Rim Light systems for multi-camera studio productions

Typical job title: "Lighting Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Lighting Director Gaffer Lighting Designer Studio Lighting Technician Director of Photography Television Lighting Operator

Where to Find Lighting Technicians

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Industry Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle back lighting for a multi-camera live broadcast with changing set positions?

Expected Answer: Looking for understanding of coordinating multiple light setups, quick adjustments during live broadcasts, and managing a lighting team while maintaining consistent look across different camera angles.

Q: What's your approach to training junior lighting technicians on proper back lighting techniques?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership abilities, teaching methods, and deep understanding of both technical and artistic aspects of lighting.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you adjust back lighting for different skin tones and hair colors?

Expected Answer: Should explain practical experience with adjusting light intensity and positioning to properly illuminate different subjects while avoiding over-exposure or unflattering effects.

Q: What's your process for troubleshooting lighting issues during a live broadcast?

Expected Answer: Should describe systematic approach to identifying problems, quick solutions, and backup plans for common lighting challenges.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of back lighting in television production?

Expected Answer: Should understand basic concept of using back light to separate subjects from background and create depth in the shot.

Q: Can you describe the basic setup of a three-point lighting system?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the relationship between key light, fill light, and back light in creating professional-looking illumination.