Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: B-Roll • Lavalier Mic • Interlaced

Key Light

Term from Television Production industry explained for recruiters

Key Light refers to the main and most important light source used in film, television, and photography setups. It's the primary light that illuminates the subject, creating the basic shape and form in the shot. Think of it as the "star player" in lighting arrangements. When someone mentions experience with Key Light in their resume, they're indicating they understand fundamental lighting techniques used in professional video or photo production. This is similar to how natural sunlight works as the main light source in outdoor scenes, but in a controlled studio environment.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Key Light placement for daytime talk show production

Operated Key Light and fill lighting for studio interviews

Designed Key Light setups for multi-camera news broadcasts

Typical job title: "Lighting Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Lighting Director Gaffer Lighting Technician Studio Electrician Director of Photography Lighting Designer Television Lighting Operator

Where to Find Lighting Technicians

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle lighting for a multi-camera studio setup?

Expected Answer: A senior lighting professional should explain how to coordinate different light sources without creating shadows or conflicts between cameras, managing heat issues, and ensuring consistent lighting across all angles.

Q: What's your approach to training new lighting technicians?

Expected Answer: They should discuss mentoring methods, safety protocols, common mistakes to avoid, and how they help junior staff understand both technical and artistic aspects of lighting.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you adjust key lighting for different skin tones?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how different intensities and positions of key lights affect various skin tones, and how to ensure all subjects are lit properly.

Q: What's your process for troubleshooting lighting issues during live production?

Expected Answer: Should explain quick problem-solving methods, backup plans, and how to fix common issues without disrupting the production.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between key light and fill light?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that key light is the main light source creating primary shadows, while fill light softens these shadows and adds detail to darker areas.

Q: What basic safety practices do you follow when setting up lights?

Expected Answer: Should mention proper cable management, heat management, secure mounting, proper power distribution, and basic electrical safety.