Tips on holding a Light Meter

[jimerb]

Can you give me some tips on holding a light meter to get accurate readings?

Do yo hold the meter horizontal with the bulb up?

Do you have the bulb face the camera?

How far away from the subject do you typically go?

I plunked over $400 on a Sekonic meter and my results have been a bit off so far. I think it's because of the way I'm holding it.

 

[480sparky]

Depends on whether you are measuring incident light or reflected light.

If you want to measure incident light, you hold the meter toward the source of light.

If you want to measure reflected light, you aim it toward your subject.

 

[beachrat]

For incident readings you hold the meter close to the subject,(just under a persons chin for example) with the sphere pointed toward the camera lens,not the light source.
Measuring reflected, you'd hold it in front of the camera lens aimed toward the subject.
Sekonics usually come with a manual.

 

[480sparky]

............Sekonics usually come with a manual.

If not, you can either contact them or Google the phrase "Sekonic (model number) Manual".

 

[KmH]

How to use a light meter - video tutorials

Sekonic Classroom Articles - Basics About Light Meters