Measuring Light

[CaptainCleptoc]

What tools do people use to measure their light?

I am about to start a project and will be using some cheap halogen lights. I would like to understand what other tools I can use to help get the desired lighting.

If I have light metering in my camera is that enough?

How do these light metering phone apps work?

Appreciate any and all feedback around getting the lighting right. Thanks!

 

[directorik]

I use a light meter. I own a few Seconic meters. I have one from the
1980's that is still my personal favorite. If I really want to turn heads
on a set I'll pull out my 1975 Luna Pro S - fully analog and works great.

The in camera meter can be fine. It reads reflected light so is less accurate
than an incident meter. The phone apps use the camera phones lens to
read reflected light. Unless you get a diffusion dome. I find them to be
only acceptable; not as accurate as a pro light meter but a fine method
for those on a low budget.

A good light meter is an excellent investment. It will be in your kit for
decades - long after the camera you are using becomes obsolete.

 

[CaptainCleptoc]

Thanks directorik!

Do you have any recommendations for a first time user of light meters?

I did some reasearch based on what you said and found some GREAT articles for anyone else reading this thread.

"Incident vs Reflected light and which type gives you better photos": http://www.digital-photo-secrets.co...light-and-which-type-gives-you-better-photos/

"Benefits of Incident" : http://www.sekonic.com/united-states/classroom/meteringtechniques/benefitsofincident.aspx

 

[sfoster]

beware halogen pump out a ton of heat.

if you combine that with turning off the AC to get good sound, people are going to overheat and get tired. Don't expect a long day of shooting. they won't be up for it in those conditions.

 

[directorik]

My advice for all first time users of anything:

Use it. Over and over and over until you build your skill level.

Get one. My advice is to jump in and spend the money on a good
one because you will keep it in your kit for decades. Lighting and
metering the light to get the exposure you want is a skill. And all
skills are learned by repetition and experimentation. Add a few
small clamp lights and paper lanterns to your cheap halogen lights
and play around with placement.