Which photography technique emphasizes facial features by using shadows?

Rembrandt lighting is a technique specifically known for its ability to create dramatic contrasts and emphasize facial features through the strategic use of shadows. This style is characterized by a small triangle of light on the cheek opposite from the light source, which adds depth and dimension to the subject's face. The interplay of light and shadow highlights the contours of the face and enhances the overall visual impact of the portrait.

In contrast, flat lighting tends to minimize shadows, resulting in a more even distribution of light across the face, which does not emphasize facial features as effectively. Silhouette lighting involves positioning the light source behind the subject, creating a dark outline and obscuring the finer facial features rather than highlighting them. Backlighting, while it can add depth and a glowing effect around the edges, generally does not focus on facial detail and can also lead to loss of definition in the face, as most of the subject may fall into shadow. All of these factors combine to make Rembrandt lighting the preferred choice for emphasizing facial features through shadows.