light meter - who ones one? worth the money or useless?

[nucki]

Hi!

because I'm in NYC in two weeks, I visit B&H. I've seen that the gossen digisix light meter is more than 50% cheaper than here in europe. (especially with the current dollar/euro ratio)

But I'm thinking if it is really usefull for digital photgraphy? ok, its just a little bit more than 100$ so its nothing dramatic.

Do you think its worth the money?

I wonder how many of you guys own a light meter?

maybe a poll question...

best regards
Peter

[CoolToolGuy]

I couldn't find the right selection to vote - I have a light meter from my film days, but I don't use it very often. It is just as valid to use it now as then, but it has the most value in difficult situations, or if you want to be absolutely precise. AE bracketing (in the camera) is a lot lighter to carry than an external light meter, but if you have a specific need the meter can be worth the trouble. If you want incident readings, or spot metering from different areas of the scene an external meter is indispensible.

Hope this helps.

[Jim_T]

I don't really need a light meter with my 10D

The internal metering is OK by me.. Digital cameras have instant feedback in the form of an image on the LCD screen. When I come to a situation where I'm concerned with light, I always check the histogram. (That's one thing film photographers don't have).

Also, with post processing, (unless you're really blown out), you can easily correct up to a couple of stops.

The only real advantage I see is the ability to do tight spot metering, but I think it's still more trouble than it's worth..

[slin100]

I have one but only use it for portraits in a studio setting where it is indispensable for measuring light ratios. Otherwise, it usually gets left at home. So, I guess I would say "Yes, but don't use it often (but happy with it)."

BTW, I have a Sekonic L-358. It's a great light meter. I also have the add-on radio transmitter module for wirelessly triggering my strobes. Using the meter couldn't be easier with this setup.

[nucki]

so, as I see, its not really a need of a light meter in the digital world. on second thought I think I would by something else.... I think there is enough :-)

best regards
Peter

[Sketcher]

so, as I see, its not really a need of a light meter in the digital world.
Peter

Peter, what you're seeing is a response from people whose photography style and interest does not incorporate a need for a tool such as a dedicated light meter; not an indication of whether there is a need for a light meter in the world of Digital Photography itself. If your photographic interest is toward studio or outdoor light modifying then a light meter is an indespensible tool worth every penny. There's more to measuring light than what can be metered and compensated for through the lens.

Today's camera's however, with the exception of the mentioned environment are quite exceptional at TTL metering and are more than capable for most hobby photographers. I would recommend not buying a light meter until you notice that your photography style and capability bear out that you need independent metering in order to capture the scene the way you envision it.

My .02 lumens

Jeff

[rodbunn]

Couldn't live without it. I shoot wedding receptions and I must have the
meter to measure my second light that I use remotely to fill a room
with light when I need it. Can't do without the meter.

Whenever you can, use an ambient meter and see how much beter the
photo will come out. They are much more accurate then the one in
the camera that measures "reflective compared to grey".


Good luck, Rod

[WestFalcon]

I've done my last three weddings in a row without pulling out a lightmeter and the pictures are superb. I do look at the histogram freqently to avoid blowing out the lightlights. When doing some first communion pictures, I have an LCD television mounted on a lightstand and I judge exposure and light ratios from the screen while mom and dad select as I shoot...Parents love it and really order this way.

[ron chappel]

I wouldn't even remotely consider one at the STUPID prices they want


A flash meter may be a great thing with a film camera.......but who uses them anymore? :P

[nucki]

I see! This is not a easy question I've started. Some swear on it, others not even think about it.

But in case of myself, I think I will wait. Why? because when I buy one, than a good one with the capability of spot metering. But those tiny all-rounder are stupid expensive! they cost more than my monthly rent, so its an easy decission. just wait, till they (maybe but not likely) getting cheaper or save until I have the money. Its not that urgent!

Thanks all for your answers!

best regards
Peter

[mnapuran]

I have one but only use it for portraits in a studio setting where it is indispensable for measuring light ratios. Otherwise, it usually gets left at home. So, I guess I would say "Yes, but don't use it often (but happy with it)."


I agree with this completely... use it for inside work, and only occassional outside work under BRIGHT sunlight, and LOW light.