Translight

The strips were seamed with tape; then oil paint was applied to the assembled picture for a tinted color effect.

The name gradually was applied to any transparency lit from behind and used as a background picture for feature films or television production.

Until recently, Translights were made in a photographic process, often in sections to allow very large sizes to be produced.

Translights allow the director of photography to create what appears to be an exterior scene, but under controlled conditions, rather than dependent on weather, access, and time of day.

This type of Translight does not photographically reproduce the scene at night, for the daytime image remains somewhat visible.

Illuminated cityscape backdrop with miniatures in front on the set of a late night television show .