photoreception

/ˌfoʊtoʊrɪˈsɛpʃən/
noun
  1. The process by which living things detect light, especially using special cells or organs like eyes.
    • Many animals rely on photoreception to find food and avoid predators.
    • The study of photoreception helps scientists design better cameras.
    • Photoreception in humans begins when light enters the eye and hits the retina.
Synonyms