What is a high-key value?

A high-key value refers to a value that is bright, light, and predominantly white or light in color. In photography, high-key lighting is used to create a bright and airy image with minimal shadows and a soft, ethereal look. In design, high-key colors are often used to create a sense of lightness, purity, and simplicity.

A high-key value in photography is a visual tone in which most of the image is light, with a higher proportion of whites and highlights than midtones or shadows. It emphasizes the lighter tones, resulting in a brighter, airy, and optimistic feel. In high-key images, the darkest areas are often lightened to produce a more uniform appearance. This technique is commonly used in portraiture, fashion, and advertising to create a sense of lightheartedness and positivity.