Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

luminance

noun

/luːˈmɪnəns/

Definition

Luminance is a measure of the amount of light that is emitted, transmitted, or reflected from a surface in a given direction. It quantifies the brightness of an object as perceived by the human eye.

Examples

The luminance of the moon is much lower than that of the sun, making nighttime scenery quite different.
High luminance in a photograph can draw attention to specific areas, enhancing the overall composition.
Adjusting the luminance in a video can help create the desired mood or atmosphere.

Meaning

In simple terms, luminance refers to how bright an object appears. It is an important concept in fields like photography, videography, and lighting design, as it helps determine how light interacts with surfaces and how we perceive them.