A–B–C–D–E–F–G–H–I–J–K–L–M–N–O–P–Q–R–S–T–U–V–W–X–Y–Z
K (Kilowatt)
A unit of electrical power equal to 1,000 watts. Commonly used to rate the size of film lights (e.g., a 2K or 5K).
Kelvin (K)
The unit of measurement used to describe color temperature of light sources. For example, daylight is around 5600K and tungsten is around 3200K.
A unit of measurement for color temperature. For example, 3200K is tungsten-balanced; 5600K is daylight-balanced.
Key
General term for the main light in a scene.
Key Grip
The head of the grip department. Works closely with the Director of Photography and Gaffer to shape and control light, rig equipment, and manage camera movement. Supervises the grip crew.
Key Light
The primary light source in a scene, used to illuminate the subject and establish the overall lighting style.
Key Side
The side of the subject facing the key light.
Key-to-Fill Ratio
The lighting ratio between the key light and fill light, used to control contrast.
Kick (Light Kick or Lens Kick)
An unintended reflection or light hit on lens or surface, often needing flagging or adjustment.
Kicker
A light placed behind and to the side of the subject, often used to highlight the edges of the face or body, creating separation from the background.
Kicker Dolly
Slang for a lightweight doorway dolly pushed or “kicked” into position quickly.
Kickoff Meeting (Pre-Production Kickoff)
First production meeting to align creative, schedule, and departments.
Kill
To turn off a light or piece of equipment. Example: “Kill the backlight.”
Kill the Baby
Older slang for turning off a smaller light on set (typically a “baby” fresnel).
Klieg Light
Old Hollywood term for powerful carbon-arc lights once used on stages and film sets.
Knee
A setting in digital cameras controlling the highlight roll-off curve—useful for protecting highlights.
Knockdown
To reduce light output, usually by dimming or applying diffusion or ND.
Knuckle
The adjustable joint on a grip head or C-stand that allows flags, arms, and other equipment to be locked in place at different angles.
Kit Rental
A fee paid to crew (like camera assistants or sound) for using their personal gear on a production.
Knowledge Transfer (KT)
Passing information from one editor or crew member to another when rolling off a project, ensuring continuity in workflow.
Koski (noun)
Definition: A term used on film sets to describe a situation where a Director of Photography (DOP) or crew member wastes time or makes a mistake due to poor communication with the Director or their department head. A “Koski” happens when assumptions replace discussion — resulting in setup delays, unnecessary resets, or work that has to be redone because expectations weren’t clarified.
Example:
“We just lost 30 minutes relighting because the DP didn’t ask the director what shot size they wanted — total Koski.”
Usage Notes:
The term is often used half-jokingly, but it points to a serious on-set issue: the importance of clear communication and collaboration. A Koski moment usually exposes cracks in leadership or prep — not just individual error.
Kuleshov Effect
A film editing effect demonstrating that viewers derive meaning from the juxtaposition of shots.
That wraps up our Film & Television Dictionary – Letter K entries. This glossary is a living resource—new terms and updated definitions are added regularly as the industry evolves. If you have a suggestion or notice a term we’ve missed, feel free to reach out and share your input.
A–B–C–D–E–F–G–H–I–J–K–L–M–N–O–P–Q–R–S–T–U–V–W–X–Y–Z
Want to keep building your filmmaking vocabulary? Browse the full A–Z index above, or continue directly to Letter L for more film and television terminology.