key light

American  

noun

1. (in photography or motion pictures) the main light that illuminates the subject being photographed or filmed.

---

key light British  

noun

1. television theatre photog the main stage or studio light that gives the required overall intensity of illumination

---

Etymology

Origin of key light

First recorded in 1935–40

Compare meaning

How does key-light compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• key light vs. fill light

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

key light

The discovery challenges a decades old explanation for how key light sensing cells form and could guide future treatments for macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other diseases that damage vision.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 9, 2026

I think her team wouldn’t let her shoot unless they had a key light on her, so they had to jigger this key light.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 9, 2023

The 21-year-old from Manchester works in the lighting department, providing the key light for artists and presenters on the stage.

From BBC ● May 2, 2023

Unlike most other webcams, the Video Bar offers speakers and a key light designed to improve the lighting so your face should look clearer and more professional on video calls.

From The Verge ● Mar. 8, 2022

I know where I need key light and a little fill.

From New York Times ● Nov. 19, 2016