Kicker
Light from behind and to the side of a person that draws a bright line along the edge of one cheek and jaw. Placed behind, on the side opposite the main light (key light), it brings out the outline of the shadowed side of the face so its shape does not get lost in the dark. Unlike a rim light that wraps all the way around the head and shoulders, it targets only one edge of the face.
How it feels
- Defined outline
- Depth
- Tension
- Intensity
- Dark mood
When to use it
- Low-key close-ups of a person
- Character shots in noir and crime films
- An action hero’s entrance
- Bringing out the shape of the dark side of the face
In the movies
Not to be confused with
- Backlight / Rim Light
- A rim light, from directly behind, makes an edge of light all around the head and shoulders. A kicker comes from farther to the side and lights only one edge of the face.
- Side Light
- A side light, from directly beside the person, lights one whole side of the face. A kicker sits farther back and only reaches the edge.
- Key Light
- The key light is the main light on most of the face; a kicker is a supporting light that adds an outline on the opposite side.
Prompt
kicker light
A key light from 45 degrees camera left, and a cool kicker light from behind on the right drawing a bright edge along the shadowed cheek and jaw. Low-key, sculpted portrait.
Try these combinations
Close-up + low-key + kicker: a detective in a dark alley
Close-up, low-key, kicker light, cool edge light on the cheek, a detective standing in a dark alley
Medium close-up + kicker: an action hero catching their breath
Medium close-up, warm key light, cool blue kicker from behind, an action hero catching his breath