Pose & style reference · Camera angles and views
Back view reference
Also called: back view reference, from behind, back pose, rear view pose
In short
A back view shows the figure from behind, with the face hidden or only partly visible. It puts the focus on the hair, the back of the outfit and the scene the person is facing, so it feels reflective, mysterious or like the viewer is following the character.
Reference photos
Photos are shown from mfan8.com with credit to the photographers and models. Tap a photo to open the full set.
Why a back view works
Without a face, the viewer's attention moves to shape and setting: a long hime cut falling straight down, a ribbon on a sailor collar, the back of a kimono's obi, or a figure looking out over a city. Painters have long used figures seen from behind to invite the viewer to share their view.
In cosplay and costume design, the back view is also essential reference, because the back of a garment is often where the most detail hides: bows, lacing, capes, hair ornaments and wings.
Back view variations
| Variation | What it shows | Mood |
|---|---|---|
| Straight back view | Full back, head facing away | Lonely, contemplative |
| Back with head slightly turned | Ear and cheek line | Hint of the face, intimate |
| Looking back over the shoulder | Face in profile or 3/4 | Inviting; see looking-back pose |
| Back view walking away | Stride, trailing hair or cape | Departure, journey |
| Back view with arms raised | Shoulder blades and spine | Freedom, stretching |
How to draw a figure from behind
Use the spine as your centre line; it runs down a shallow groove between two ridges of muscle. Place the shoulder blades as flat triangles on the upper back, and remember that they slide apart when the arms come forward and squeeze together when the arms pull back.
The back of the head is rounder and larger than beginners expect, and the neck widens into the trapezius muscles that slope to the shoulders. Hair hides most of this, so draw the skull first and lay the hair over it. From behind, the waist narrows above the hips, and the backs of the knees and heels finish the figure. Feet point away, so mostly you see heels.
How to pose and photograph a back view
Give the subject something to look at, such as a view, a doorway or the sky, so the back view has a story. Shoot at shoulder height or slightly lower, and frame enough of the scene in front of them.
- Shift the weight onto one leg; even from behind, an even stance looks stiff.
- Brush long hair so it falls cleanly down the back, or sweep it over one shoulder to show the neck.
- Hold a prop in front so only part of it shows past the body, like an umbrella or a bag strap.
- Rim light or backlight outlines the hair and makes the silhouette pop.
FAQ
How do I draw the back without it looking flat?
Show the spine groove, the shoulder blades and how the back narrows to the waist, and light it from the side so the muscles cast soft shadows.
What does a back view communicate?
Distance, reflection or mystery, and it invites the viewer to look at what the character is looking at.
How do I make a back view photo interesting?
Give the subject a view to face, show off hair or costume details, and use backlight to outline the figure.