FAQs About Types of Light Meters

Photography is a complicated hobby that incorporates more than just a click of a camera. Novice photographers and professionals alike are always searching for new tips on how to improve the quality of their pictures. Learn everything you need to know with our handy FAQs about types of light meters.

Q: What is a light meter?

A: A light meter measures the amount of light a photographer has in order to take photos of a subject. Two types of readings are offered by a light meter. Reflective reading measures the amount of light reflected off the subject, and incident reading measures the amount of light that falls on the subject. Modern cameras include features like built-in light meters that read reflective light automatically. These digital meters measure the light of an entire scene rather than just the subject, which impacts how different areas of the scene appear. Handheld light meters offer the best readings and allow photographers to get more detailed measurements.

Q: What distinguishes a color temperature light meter?

A: Color temperature light meters measure the color of light that falls on a subject, known as the color temperature. This measurement tells the difference between daylight, photoflood light and tungsten light, and each of these light forms emits a different color. For film photography, knowing this is important when determining the type of film to use for a project. Digital photography works in a similar way, but the correct type of light is needed in order to achieve the correct color in photographs.

Q: What should I know about flash light meters?

A: A flash light meter measures the amount of light from a photographic flash and performs this function in a fraction of a second. This meter gives an incident reading by distinguishing the difference between flash light and ambient light. These results are helpful when a photographer needs to select the right exposure setting.