How To Expose Backlit Scenes on Film

In this clip from our Exposing Motion Picture Film Masterclass, Shane Hurlbut, ASC demonstrates how to expose daylight-balanced film stock in a harsh backlit day exterior—the exact method he uses on feature films. Using a meter, ND filtration, and intentional backlight ratios, Shane walks through his full process for creating natural, dimensional, photochemical exposure.

Whether you shoot film or digital, this breakdown shows how to read your light, establish ratios, and shape exposure with precision.

Drawing from decades of experience and over 23 films shot on celluloid, Shane reveals:
• How to meter for harsh backlight
• Why ND is essential when shooting daylight film stocks
• How to calculate your filter factor directly on the meter
• The ideal face underexposure for lighter and darker skin tones
• The backlight ratio Shane prefers for natural, cinematic daylight
• How bounce fill is placed to create soft, controlled light
• Why film’s latitude supports intentional underexposure for richer tonality