key light

American

noun

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

key light British

noun

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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If you’re darker-skinned, make sure your key light is positioned properly.

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

The Video Bar also packs two features that aren’t commonly included with a webcam: a key light and speakers.

From The Verge • Jan. 4, 2022

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

From New York Times • Nov. 19, 2016

In one version of the ad, a harsh key light cuts diagonally across Damon’s brow and cheekbone, one of the few spots in which the details of his body are scrutable.

From Salon • Jul. 29, 2016

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023