映える

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 映える is read as はえる and is an intransitive verb for something standing out or looking attractive against a background or in particular light.
• Basic usage: Contrast appears in 白い壁に映える, while a striking appearance in light appears in 夕日に映える.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Reading はえる
  • In this sense it is read はえる, unlike 映る（うつる）, which means being reflected or appearing on a screen.
• Difference from 目立つ
  • 目立つ means attracting notice whether positively or negatively; 映える strongly suggests looking good because of the setting or light.