| Author | Thread |
|
|
12/15/2004 12:25:08 PM · #1 |
Hey guys, i'm trying to think of a way to improve my photography setup and a was thinking a good light meter would be nice to use with my 20D. Do you guys think this is worth the money?
|
|
|
|
12/15/2004 12:27:26 PM · #2 |
Your camera already has a built-in reflected light meter. That is how it determines the proper exposure -- you just have to understand how it works (the whole "18% gray" thing). A handheld light meter becomes very important once you get into off-camera/studio flash photography, since they are able to meter the "flash" from studio strobes, which your camera cannot. An external light meter would also be appropriate if for some reason you need an incident light meter because the built-in reflected light meter is not adequate, or need a precise spot meter to very accurately determine the exposure of a very minute part of a scene.
Message edited by author 2004-12-15 12:38:57. |
|
|
|
12/16/2004 03:02:42 AM · #3 |
I'm only a pretend pro, but..
I use a light meter (Sekonic 508II) for 'studio' flash/strobe work, and occasionally for available light.
I've only had my 20D a wee while but I've found it's metering is pretty good in most situations, although a proper spot would have been nice..
My 2c would be to not worry about a manual meter unless you're doing studio strobe work, or you really need a spot meter.
If you're new to SLR's or 'manual' cameras, look up John Setzlers 'Exposure' pdf on his website.. www.setzler.net It's a great guide to all things exposure.
Cheers, Chris H.
|
|
|
|
12/16/2004 08:27:37 PM · #4 |
Also not a pro, but I have my own fair share of experience with external meters and best I can say is - depending on your style, you may or may not find it useful.
For example, if you like to shoot landscapes on a tripod, an external meter can help you nail the exposure rather than using the camera's meter forcing you to point it around and get in the way of your composition. Of course, you can bracket like crazy and watch the histogram, but nothing beats the feeling of nailing the exposure down on the first shot.
An external flash meter will also be very useful if you work with studio strobes. Not only will it help you determine the correct exposure settings, but the meter also allows you to measure ratios and setup your lights the way you want it based on desired ratios.
These are just two examples but there are others, and it all depends on your shooting style.
:)atwl
|
|
Home -
Challenges -
Community -
League -
Photos -
Cameras -
Lenses -
Learn -
Help -
Terms of Use -
Privacy -
Top ^
DPChallenge, and website content and design, Copyright © 2001-2025 Challenging Technologies, LLC.
All digital photo copyrights belong to the photographers and may not be used without permission.
Current Server Time: 09/13/2025 05:07:42 PM EDT.
