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

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

A large flat-screen monitor loomed above, and a key light was stationed over his shoulder.

From New York Times • May 20, 2022

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

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

The film stars Humphrey Bogart as a seen-it-all director and Ava Gardner in one of her signature roles as Maria Vargas, a woman beautiful enough "to use the moon for a key light."

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 26, 2015