How to Use a Camera Light Meter
Today, most cameras have built-in light meters. Knowing how to use yours can make all the difference when it comes to getting a good picture. This article will discuss what a light Meter is so you can get the best images possible.
What is a Camera Light Meter?
A camera light meter measures the amount of light reflecting off a scene. It then comes up with the right combinations of settings (shutter speed, aperture, and ISO) for a well-exposed shot. While most cameras come with their own meters, you can also buy a handheld one that can be used separately.
The light meter will only suggest the settings. It will be up to you as a photographer, to set them as recommended or to come up with a formula you think works better.
What Part of the Scene Does the Light Meter Evaluate?
Cameras have a few Metering modes and each one evaluates light differently. Here’s an example of what you may be working with.
Matrix or Evaluative Opening: This measures the entire scene to come up with an evaluative average.
Center-Weighted Average Metering: This also considers the entire scene, but it focuses on the center.
Portion Metering This setting concentrates on the middle of the scene.
Spot Metering: This looks at an area near the center of the scene.
The metering mode you choose can have a big impact on the look of your picture so it’s important to choose wisely.
Reflective Metering
Through the lens metering works by measuring the amount of light coming through the lens. Basically, that’s the light that’s reflecting on your subject via the main light source. It’s not the light source itself. This is problematic as your entire focus will be changed depending on the reflective elements in your photo.
So if your subject is wearing a white shirt that’s very reflective and then changes into a black shirt that’s more absorbent, your light metering will change completely. This will fool your camera into under or overexposing an image.
Even though there is an optimal exposure for the image, if reflective metering is used, your camera will fail to find it.
The way to get around this is to use a handheld meter. This will measure the actual amount of light falling onto the image. It will give you consistently accurate results. This technique is called incident metering.
Getting the right light metering makes all the difference when it comes to getting a great photo. Now that you know what’s involved, you are ready to get some excellent shots. What techniques do you use when you want your pictures to come out their best?
Read more of a Conversation about Art or Shop Now at Schmidt Fine Art Galleryonto
