If you're into photography or filmmaking, you will already be aware of the importance of precise lighting during the shooting process. A light meter allows you to experiment with contrast ratios and learn about your camera's dynamic range. Other tasks that these gadgets are helpful for include gardening and interior illumination. If you are unsure about what to look for in a product, buying the best light meters in 2021 might be a difficult task. We have tried our best to compile a thorough list of the most important factors and relevant information to consider before making a decision.
What are some key considerations of buying the best light meters?
Before you buy a light meter, there are a few things you should think about.
Purpose
Different models on the market are used for different purposes, and you must choose the one that meets all of your needs. A light meter designed for photography may not be appropriate for gardening and vice versa.
Display
Choose between analog and digital display meters, considering your needs. Digital LCDs are widely accessible nowadays, and their illuminated screens make it simple to see the measurement at all times.
Spot metering system
The spot metering system aids in the maintenance of a dazzling balance between the subject and the backdrop, resulting in higher-quality images. It is better to check the light meter for this feature before making the final decision.
Accurate flash metering
Make sure the equipment you're using can correctly meter flash during your photography sessions. If you take a lot of photographs with a flashlight, this is a must-have feature.
Accessories
Several light meters also offer a variety of useful extras in the box. Carrying bags, cleaning tools, batteries, stands, and other items are included. With such a light meter, you not only receive greater value for your money, but these accessories also make your light meter more flexible.
Warranty
When purchasing a light meter, you want it to be useful and dependable for as long as feasible. As a result, most light meters have a robust plastic construction that allows them to be used in a variety of settings.
Aside from that, you might want to verify your light meter's included warranty to see how long it will last. In most situations, any particular light meter will come with a two-year or three-year guarantee, which should be sufficient for most users.
Which are some other things to consider to make the best purchase?
Before you go on that dream picture shoot, consider these features to be sure that you have invested in the perfect lux meter!
Portability
Being a photographer, reporter, or filmmaker is not everyone's cup of tea. You must always be on your toes, moving from one location to another for a variety of duties, such as shooting on moving vehicles in various lightings, capturing a moving body, capturing the delicate subtleties of facial expression in various circumstances, shooting underwater, or shooting in the rain.
Given the unsettling nature of the activities mentioned above, having a portable, lightweight lux meter is essential for comfortably completing the assignment. A large light meter will simply add to your discomfort and make it more difficult to complete the work at hand.
Price
The price of light meters is also important to consider while acquiring one. Decide what features you want your light meter to have and what you want it to be used for. Even a cheap light meter might meet all of your basic photographic needs.
The less costly gadgets may not have as much accuracy or as many functions as their more expensive equivalents.
What are some important features of the light meters?
Light meters include a variety of features, including
Auto-off
The auto-off feature automatically turns the light meter off if it is left unattended for an extended time.
Backlit
Even in low-light situations, the backlighting function allows you to keep track of the readings.
Hold
The Fold feature makes it simple for the user to read the data.
Filters
This function can be used to block unwanted wavelengths that could affect the end results of your photography.
Memory
It gives the meter the ability to retain readings in its memory.
USB
The light meter should have a USB port to be connected to the desktop or laptop to be used without any inconvenience.
Additional features mean higher prices. Choose your favorite option based on your needs and the amount of money you're willing to pay.
Which type of light meter should you buy?
There are two different types of light meters on the market that you will come across during your hunt.
Incident light meters
These are the perfect option to measure the light that falls directly on an item rather than the surrounding environment. These are precise and accurate since they are unable to detect any background light.
Reflective light meters
These devices measure the amount of light reflected by an item, including any background objects. They're useful when you need to take a picture of a complete place rather than simply one object.
Best Light Meters FAQs
Q: Do I require a light meter in order to snap photographs?
Without a doubt, no. If you're in a rush, light meters can help you set up your camera quickly. There is no need to guess the proper indexes by eye. They are extremely useful in studios for calculating ratios and exposing the optimum light.
Q: What is the major difference between a flash and a light meter?
Light meters provide information on encompassing light that comes from all across the scene and focuses on itself. Flash meters, on the other hand, read flashlights. They are routinely assembled to the flashlights and tested to determine the quality of the flash.
Q: Is it useful to use light meters in the landscape?
If you're planning an outside production, incident readings can help you fine-tune your lighting. Simply place the device in front of the camera and check that the light on the scene matches the light your meter detects.