Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: RED Camera • Prime Lens • Anamorphic

Key Light

Term from Cinematography industry explained for recruiters

Key Light is the main or primary light source used in film, photography, and video production. It's the brightest and most important light that helps create the basic look of a shot. Think of it like the sun in natural lighting - it's the main source that creates the primary shadows and highlights on the subject. When someone mentions Key Light in their resume, they're talking about their experience with fundamental lighting techniques used in professional film and video production.

Examples in Resumes

Set up and positioned Key Light arrangements for interview segments on documentary projects

Managed Key Light and fill light placement for corporate video productions

Supervised lighting crew in implementing Key Light setups for commercial shoots

Typical job title: "Lighting Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Gaffer Lighting Director Director of Photography Cinematographer Film Lighting Technician Studio Lighting Designer Lighting Operator

Where to Find Lighting Technicians

Online Communities

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach lighting design for a complex scene with multiple subjects?

Expected Answer: A senior lighting professional should explain their process for analyzing the scene, determining light placement for multiple subjects, managing contrast ratios, and coordinating with camera movement.

Q: How do you train and supervise a lighting crew?

Expected Answer: Should discuss leadership experience, safety protocols, efficient setup procedures, and how they ensure consistency in lighting across multiple shooting days.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when setting up key lighting for different skin tones?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they adjust light intensity and positioning to properly expose different skin tones, and demonstrate understanding of color temperature and light quality.

Q: How do you maintain consistent lighting when shooting across multiple days?

Expected Answer: Should discuss documentation methods, reference photos, light meter readings, and techniques for matching natural and artificial light.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between key light and fill light?

Expected Answer: Should explain that key light is the main light source creating primary shadows, while fill light is softer and helps reduce shadow intensity.

Q: What basic equipment do you need for a standard key light setup?

Expected Answer: Should list essential equipment like light fixtures, stands, diffusion materials, and basic safety equipment, showing familiarity with standard tools.