Light meters
are important tools for professional photographers and cinematographers. There are several types of light meters, but all perform the same basic function: measuring the amount of light around the subject about to be photographed or filmed. Photographers use this data to determine adjust camera aperture and other settings. Light meters function by using a series of specialized components.
Light Sensor
The heart of a light meter is its light sensor. On some older meters, or analog models, the light sensor is a photoelectric cell that transforms light into an electrical charge. Digital meters use a photo sensor much like the sensors in a digital camera. In both cases, the amount of light is registered as an electrical impulse and relayed to the meter's circuitry. Most light meters include a white plastic dome that the photographer can install over the light sensor. This device collects light from a greater number of directions, resulting in a more accurate overall reading.
Computer
Most light meters use batteries to power a simple digital computer. Other meters also contain an electrical system that allows the electric impulse generated by light to be interpreted as a numeric value. More advanced meters compute recommended camera settings based on data entered by the photographer.
Display
All meters have a display that shows the value of the light reading. Analog meters usually use a needle while digital meters typically have an LCD display. Meters also usually list a range of camera settings, including the f-stop (aperture opening) at different ISO values (film speeds). Again, this information can be displayed using a twisting dial or on the LCD screen.
Casing
Most light meters have a black, plastic casing that protects their delicate electronics. Certain meters feature rubberized grips and carrying straps for outdoor or heavy use, such as on a film set. Meters may also come with various filters that take different types of readings by inserting them over the light sensor.
Tags: light meters, Most light, Most light meters, amount light, camera settings, have display