9 best photographic light meters

Photographic light meters are essential tools for photographers to measure the intensity of light in a scene. They play a crucial role in achieving proper exposure in photography, whether using film or digital cameras. Here are some key points about photographic light meters:

Purpose: Photographic light meters are used to measure the amount of light in a given environment.This information helps photographers determine the optimal settings for their cameras, including aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, to capture a well-exposed image.
Types of Light Meters:
- Incident Light Meters: These meters measure the amount of light falling onto the subject. They are typically held close to the subject, and they provide a reading of the light falling on the subject's face or scene.
- Reflected Light Meters: Reflected light meters measure the light that is reflected off the subject. They are often built into cameras and measure the light that bounces off the subject and back into the camera lens.
Light Meter Readings: Light meters provide readings in various units, including exposure values (EV), lux, foot-candles, or f-stops. Photographers can use these readings to set the camera's exposure settings accordingly.
Metering Modes:
- Spot Metering: This mode measures the light in a specific spot, typically a small area in the frame. It is useful for high-contrast scenes.
- Center-Weighted Metering: This mode gives more importance to the central part of the frame while taking an average reading of the entire scene.
- Matrix (Evaluative) Metering: This mode considers multiple areas in the frame and calculates an exposure based on a complex algorithm. It is commonly used in modern digital cameras.
External vs. Built-in Meters: Some cameras have built-in light meters, while others require external light meters. External light meters are often more precise and offer greater control.
Use in Studio Photography: In studio photography, light meters are particularly valuable for achieving consistent and controlled lighting. They help photographers set up the desired lighting ratios for their subjects.
Use in Film Photography: Light meters are essential for film photographers, as they assist in choosing the correct exposure settings for various film types and lighting conditions.
Digital Alternatives: With the rise of digital photography, many photographers use the camera's built-in light meter or rely on the camera's LCD screen to review and adjust exposure settings in real-time.
Calibration: Light meters should be periodically calibrated to ensure accuracy. This may involve adjusting the meter's sensitivity or resetting it to a known standard.

Photographic light meters are invaluable tools for photographers, whether they are capturing images in a studio, outdoors, or working with film or digital cameras. Understanding how to use a light meter effectively is essential for achieving the desired exposure and capturing stunning photographs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best photographic light meters on the market

Sekonic L-308X-U Flashmate Light Meter (401-305)

Sekonic

Based on 421 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The pocket-sized Sekonic L-308X-U FLASHMATE is the smallest and lightest digital light meter in the Sekonic line-up. Featuring dedicated modes for photography, cinematography and HD cinematography, plus the ability to switch from incident to reflected light the L-308X-U is the most versatile and affordable photo/cine meter in the market.

Exposures accurate down to a tenth-of-a-stop for both ambient and electronic flash light readings in full-stop mode.
At ISO 100 the ambient EV range is 0 to 19.9 flash f/stops range from f/1.0 to f/90.9 with a shutter-speed span of 60-seconds to 1/8000th-of-a-second (1 sec to 1/500th for flash).
Photo Mode: for still image photographers featuring shutter or aperture priority display of a full range of ambient and flash functions including cord and cordless flash measurement
HD Cine Mode: perfect for DSLR and mirrorless videographers who need to take exposure readings and control light using shutter speeds and frame rates
Cine Mode: designed for use with cinema grade cameras, allows users to select from the most useful frame rates and shutter angles for exposure control with one-tenth stop accuracy.

User questions & answers

Question:	What meter for landscape photography
Answer:	Most accurate would be incident metering tough this relies on you being able to meter at lighting similar to your subject. If this is not possible (uneven clouds, shadows, fog, etc), use reflective metering which is how 99% of cameras meter. This meter will do both.
Question:	is this light meter go for video metering also
Answer:	Yes. If your camera have options like shutter-speed range, aperture and ISO.
Question:	What is the temperature operating range
Answer:	0 to 40 degrees C.
Question:	Does this product also have a p65 warning for lead and dehp on it like the sekonic l-478d-u
Answer:	No

Product features

The Sekonic L-308X-U Flashmate

A pocket-sized and exceptionally accurate light meter that holds a legacy of accuracy. The Flashmate L-308X-U light meter from Sekonic is a compact tool for metering both ambient and flash lighting as well as working in video with dedicated Cine and HD Cine modes.

Pocketsized and Powerful

The L-308X-U is able to measure ambient light as well as reflected light via a lens with a 40° reception angle. This meter also has a wide metering range; from 0 to 19.9 EV at ISO 100, and can work with flash within a range of f/1.0 to f/90.9 at ISO 100. Repeat accuracy is also important when metering, which the L-308X-U delivers with a rating of <0.1 EV on repeat exposures.

Photo Mode

The L-308X-U offers full exposure control for photographers on-location or in the studio. Measurement data for flash and ambient light readings are clearly displayed on screen, as well as ambient EV measurement. In addition to Shutter Priority Mode, the new Aperture Priority Mode offers photographers care free measurements where depth-of-field is critical.

HD Cine Mode

Gives cinematographers a compact solution for scouting locations or as a quick go-to solution while they are on set. The 308X-U lets users select from a range of frame rates and shutter angles, while measuring accurately, to within one-tenth of a stop. Also, the addition of ISO 850 greatly assists cinematographers by giving them the option of taking measurements in the native ISOs of many of today's professional cinema cameras.

Cine Mode

Designed with the professional in mind, the FLASHMATE L-308X-U can take on the challenges of digital cinematography. Select from the right combination of frame rates and shutter angles to achieve the exposure control necessary with one-tenth stop accuracy. Truly universal, the FLASHMATE L-308X-U offers Lux (lx) and foot-candle (fc) readout enabling a quick set up of lighting in a compact, affordable and easy-to use design.

Sekonic LiteMaster Pro L-478D-U Light Meter (401-474)

Sekonic

Based on 74 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sekonic's new LITEMASTER PRO L-478-U-Series meters are the world's first touch-screen-operated light meters and have unique, must-have features for both still and motion story tellers. Their compact size is both instantly familiar and comfortable to use. The large LCD (2.7-Inch) displays ambient, flash, cine and a host of other information in a clear and understandable way. Settings are made by simply touching or sliding a finger over the screen. Amazing Must-Have Features L-478D-U for Still Photographers . Full featured Ambient-Flash modes including new T-F mode. Measure, compare, and mix ambient and flash displayed on a color, touch screen for beautiful, controlled, results. DTS Exposure Profiling matches the meter to the performance of your camera. Precise exposure and lighting starts with precise, repeatable metering. L-478D-U for Filmmakers Cine/HD Cine modes for today's HDSLR and Video Cine cameras. Effortlessly switch between HDSLR and Cine for exact exposure settings in exact increments for both. Infinite frame rate and shutter angle selection. Create special settings for special applications. Video cine cameras are becoming boundless. Metering should be too.(requires separate Sekonic or X-rite exposure targets and 5-degree finder for L-478-U). L-478D-U for Filmmakers Unique, light-source filtration compensation mode. Finally, precise control lighting using industry standard CTO/CTB/ND types at the touch of a finger. Illumination measurement and extended ISO range. Lighting design and exposure in a single tool. ISO and exposure settings to match today's digital cameras. L-478DR-U has same features and adds: Pocket Wizard triggering and Flash Power Setting w/Controls radios. Control Nikon, Canon and select studio flashes with a touch of a finger.

Instantly familiar and comfortable to use. Make settings by touching icons or sliding a finger on the screen. The large color LCD displays ambient, flash, cine and other information in a clear and understandable way.
The L-478-Series meters are especially useful when using flash to lighten shadows or reduce background detail. That's because they measure ambient and flash simultaneously and automatically indicate the percentage of flash in the total exposure.
The L-478-series has two motion- capture modes to fit camera in use. Touch to set shutter speeds for HD SLR cameras or quickly select frame rates and shutter angles for Cine.
Special effects and light sources can push standard camera settings to their limits That's why the L-478 also allows creating unique frame rates and shutter angles to .000 to enable precise exposure and lighting.
Brightness measurement in Lux or FC and Cd/m2 or FL will make the L-478 a major player on movie sets around the world. Display brightness along with exposure measurements or simply by itself.Display Range Film Speed:ISO 3 to 409600 (in 1/3 steps)

User questions & answers

Question:	How do you calibrate this to my camera meter? The readings I get are all over exposed when used on my camera
Answer:	Yes, of course. However, this also depends on the size of the glasses. If it is a relatively large size sports glasses, it is estimated that it will be difficult to accommodate.
Question:	Will the Radio Popper module, originally made for the 378, fit in the
Answer:	YES , you can
Question:	Will this meter trigger my camera flash or do I need to buy a pocket wizard
Answer:	Yes
Question:	What function were added to this model that were not included in the discontinued model, beyond the 3 yr warranty? Thanks
Answer:	The white cloth filter can be washed and reused and replaced when needed. The canister is activated charcoal and not sure the active use time of the charcoal.

Hydrofarm LG17010 Digital Light Meter, Black

Hydrofarm

Based on 119 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hydrofarm lg17010 digital light meter, This product is a precision instrument used to measure luminance (foot-candles). The meter is fully cosine corrected for the angular incidence of light, meaning that if you are not holding the sensor perfectly perpendicular to the light source, the sensor will still read the light correctly. The sensor is stable and made of a long-life silicon photo diode. The digital light meter accurately measures to 40,000 FC. The meter’s built-in low battery indicator means you’ll never be caught by surprise by a low-power product.

Measures grow lights or sunlight
Measures up to 40,000 footcandles
3 scales for precise readings
Convenient hand-held remote sensor
Lifetime silicon cell (Lithium 3V CR2032) - includes informative booklet with lighting recommendations

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this work for a ceramic metal Halide grow light
Answer:	I believe so yes it just will not work on LED or anything that you're trying to test the par. This thing is all over the place though it's more like a science project quality in my opinion
Question:	What to do if meter is stuck at 3901 even in pitch black
Answer:	Return it! It's an unadulterated piece of crap; and had you read my review, that would have been made all too clear . . .
Question:	What kind of meter should you use for LED lights
Answer:	There are meters made specifically for LED lights. You can find them by including LED in your search term. They are more expensive than this one but essential if you use LEDs.
Question:	I want to know if this product helps me to measure light from a team of HPS and MH grow lights 600w specifically
Answer:	I've used it with T5's and 1000 watt MH and HPS bulbs and it works with them.

Bluelab BLU7000 METCARRYCASE for Combo Photographic-Light-Meters, natural

Based on 69 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Bluelab is excited to introduce a new accessory which makes transporting and using their Meters even easier! The Bluelab Carry Case provides a custom fit so you can use and read your Bluelab Meter right from the carry case. A firm outer casing offers impact reduction for your Meter. There are two pockets in the top of the case especially made for meter probes. The internal strap is a tidy way to tuck away the probe cables. Removable and adjustable straps provide even more comfort and convenience. The strap can be hung on the wall or used over your shoulder, keeping the Meter safe and dry in the carry case so only the probes go into the nutrient container. In-between use, we recommend placing dry probes into the pockets. Simply zip the Carry Case to close it, then tuck away safely for storage or transport. Ideal for use with the following Bluelab Meters - Bluelab Combo Meter (Item #BLU2300E) - Bluelab pH Meter (Item #BLU2320E) - Bluelab Soil pH Meter (Item #BLU2330E) - Bluelab pH and ppm Pens (Item #'s BLU2210 and BLU2221) Please note, meter not included as shown in image.

Firm outer casing with custom fit for Bluelab Combo Meter
Impact resistant to protect Bluelab Combo Meter and probes
Strong nylon strap with adjustable length
CASE ONLY, meter and probes not included
Supplied by Bluelab, the industry leader in hydroponic testing equipment; 2 Year Limited Warranty with proof of purchase

User questions & answers

Question:	Looking for replacement caps the ph proble
Answer:	Yes. When you make or answer a call, the word "MUTE" appears on the lower left of the screen. The button right below the word becomes the mute button. My old Panasonic had a dedicated mute button but on these phones the buttons right underneath the screen are multi purpose
Question:	which is the best version for someone with an iPhone
Answer:	Yes. On the side of the handset below the volume toggle switch there's a rubber cap with a headset icon printed on it. Pull out the cap and you'll see the headset plug.
Question:	does this app/device do flash, or just ambient light
Answer:	Which one is it ?? On the already posted question I have, one answer is NO (use any make replacement rechargeable that fits) & the other is YES (only use Panasonic) ?? Like I said, Which Answer is correct ?? I'm a bit confused with the 2 posted answers !! Thanks.
Question:	Hello! Does it measure reflected and incident light? (I mean, can it measure flash light
Answer:	no bedskirt. not sure why "chenille" is in description, has a shiny finish and snags easily. I bought because it has a zip out liner and is machine washable. no blanket needed liner is fiber fill.
Question:	Could I just use a ping pong ball instead? This looks like a small ping pong ball
Answer:	no it is not reversible and it snags very easily

Product features

Why do I need it?

The light meter built into cameras measures reflected light. A reflected light meter shows an appropriate setting for an average of the whole scene. If you are taking a picture of a scene that does has neither an average, nor internally consistent lighting situation, your camera's built-in light meter will not be accurate. Usually, that causes an overexposed or underexposed picture. Sunset portraits and other pictures with strong back-lighting are common situations, and can be aided by using an incident light meter like Luxi For All.

Will it work with my device?

Luxi For All builds upon the design of the original Luxi to bring convenient, inexpensive light metering to everybody who owns a mobile device. While the original Luxi was designed specifically for iPhone, Luxi For All will fit onto all of your iOS devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad...you name it. Even if your device is inside a case!

How accurate is it?

In our testing of Luxi For All and in our experience with the original Luxi attachment, we have found the readings provided by iPhone apps paired with our devices to be highly comparable to readings taken with those old-school purpose-built light meters. The following picture shows a Luxi For All side-by-side with a relatively low-end Minolta Auto Meter IV F handheld light meter under even lighting conditions.

100% Profits to Charity

Makers4Good is a 100% Giving Company. The profits generated by sales of all of our products are donated to our charitable nonprofit partners, who are out in the world making it a brighter place for everyone. When you shop with Makers4Good, you are getting more than a great product. You are helping us help others.

Sekonic Speedmaster L-858D-U Light Meter (401-858)

Sekonic

Based on 113 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sonic Speed master L-858D-U is the world's first multi-function, multi-brand wireless triggering light meter. It is the first of its kind capable of measuring flash duration and brief flash bursts like you find from HSS (High Speed Sync) for precision flash control.

Flash Duration Measurements - Understanding flash duration is the first step in freezing fast-moving subjects.
Radio Control Modules for Wireless Triggering - The L-858 Speedmaster Pro expands upon ground-breaking innovation by adding functionality for Elinchrom Skyport and Phottix Strato II/ Ares II users
Increased Light Sensitivity - An additional 3-stops of light sensitivity for incident light, 2-stops, for reflected light (spot), and an ability to capture a reading down 0.1 lx of Illuminance
HSS Flash Measurements - Finally, photographers now have an accurate way of measuring their lights when they want to overpower the sun or achieve a very shallow depth of field through using HSS
Flash Analyzing Function - Measures ambient and flash simultaneously and automatically indicates the percentage of flash in the total exposure

User questions & answers

Question:	I have already purchased the sekonic speedmaster l-858d-u and i got the unit yet i’ve noticed there is no transmitter module do i have to buy it
Answer:	yes
Question:	does the case that comes with the meter have belt loops
Answer:	It just supports CloudEdge APP
Question:	Does it have a tripod socket
Answer:	It detects movement, anything that moves including cars.
Question:	Is it cosine corrected
Answer:	Yes, image is stored in an SD card, you can download images to PC then.

Product features

Flash Duration Measurements

Understanding flash duration is the first step in freezing fast-moving subjects. Since all cameras are limited to relatively low sync speeds, stopping motion in a single image is often achieved by leveraging short flash durations with the camera’s max sync speed. A long-held secret of some of the world’s most talented photographers, the key to freezing action consistently is found in being able to measure flash duration. Photographers are now able to do this easily for the first time, demystifying one of photography’s most challenging techniques.

Increased Light Sensitivity

Increased ISO capabilities in today’s cameras have created a need for light meters to increase their ability to measure light in the dimmest of settings. With an additional 3-stops of light sensitivity for incident light, 2-stops of light sensitivity for reflected light (spot), and an ability to capture a reading down to 0.1 lx of Illuminance, accurately metering scenes lit by candlelight or getting the right measurement for long-exposure night photography is now a possibility.

HSS Flash Measurements

The L-858D-U is the first meter of its kind that can measure the stroboscopic pulses fired from strobes when they are used for Hi-Speed Sync. Finally, photographers now have an accurate way of measuring their lights when they want to overpower the sun or achieve a very shallow depth of field through using HSS.

Flash Analyzing Function

The L-858D is especially useful for on-location shooting to lighten shadows or reduce background detail. That's because it measures ambient and flash simultaneously and automatically indicates the percentage of flash in the total exposure. You can easily adjust the ambient flash mix by turning the Jog Wheel. The digital display indicates the camera settings and an analog display shows the relationship between ambient and flash and the total exposure.

Extech LT40 LED Light Meter

Extech

Based on 193 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Extech Basic Accuracy 40-40,000 FC LED Light Meter.

Measures LED and Standard lighting
For White and Color LEDs
Lux or Foot Candle units

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this item come with calibration certificate
Answer:	Nope. Lux and footcandles. Good basic unit but remember you get what you pay for.
Question:	Can you give me a calibration certificate with this unit
Answer:	Yes but the color temperature of the source may effect the sensation of “brightness”. The higher the color temperature, the sensation of brightness increases. We have “caveman eyes”: sunlight (6500k) “feels” bright....fire (2000k) “feels” dim. Look up anything published by Dr Sam Berman.
Question:	What is the lowest fc reading this unit will take? Will it measure as low as 0.02 fc
Answer:	It has been very good. We have used them for a while now.
Question:	Currently using a "Testo 540 " Light meter. Doesn't seem to get full fc when reading LED. Will this meter give a better fc for LED light
Answer:	You will need to purchase the cable that has the data send button on the cable. The on/off button does not send the data.

Product features

Monitor Light Levels

The LT40 measures LED and Standard Lighting in Lux or Foot-Candle (Fc) units.

Easy to Read Display

The 4,000-count LCD display includes overload indication, data hold, and auto power off with disable function.

Record Extremes

The meter can record the maximum, minimum and average readings when changed to MAX/AVG/MIN mode.

Switchable Measurement Units

Toggle between Lux and FC (foot-candles) units with the push of a button.

Quick Calibration

One-button zero calibration is quick and easy to perform. The 1000 LUX calibration should be performed by qualified personnel only.

Auto-Ranging

The LT40 is auto-ranging to optimize accuracy and resolution.

Mountable

The meter comes with a tripod mount on the bottom of the device for convenient hands-free operation.

Professional Measurements

Designed for safe and reliable use, the meter conforms to JIS C 1609:1993 and CNS 5119 general class A Specifications.

Illuminati Instrument IM150 Wireless Light and Color Meter for iOS and Android Smartphones

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Whether you are capturing moving images or still, metering the light in your scene provides the accuracy you need for correct exposure and white balance, and the consistency you need while editing multiple images from your sessions. The Illuminati Light and Color Meter is the essential tool for that accuracy and consistency. It measures exposure and color temperature for all kinds of light - including strobes (standard and HSS modes). With its Bluetooth wireless connection to your smartphone, it conveniently delivers meter readings from up to 80 feet away. And, because the meter works with an app for your smartphone, new capabilities are just an update away.

Wireless light and color meter readings delivered via Bluetooth to your Apple or Android smartphone
Delivers accurate light and color temperature measurements for any light source, including tungsten, daylight, LED, HMI, fluorescent, strobe, and more
Measures exposure for still and video cameras, color temperature, illumination in lux
Supports multiple Illuminati meters with one smartphone
Compatible with iPhone SE, 5, and up. iOS 9 and up. Android OS 6, 7, 8

Extech EA30 Easy View Wide Range Light Meter (40 to 40,000 Foot Candles)

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Measuring ranges 40, 400, 4000 and 40,000 foot candles; 40, 400, 4000, 40,000 and 400,000 Lux
Max resolution 0.01Fc/Lux
Extra large display with analog bargraph
Min/Max, Peak Hold, Relative and Data Hold
Remote sensor with 39 inch coiled cable and protective cap

User questions & answers

Question:	This monitor have NIST calibration certificate
Answer:	Yes you can leave it out and it is very strong so it can take a quite heavy plant.
Question:	does it measure in kevins
Answer:	11 x 11 x 13 inches. If you sroll down way below the picture, the dimensions are given there.
Question:	Does this work for LED lighting
Answer:	11 x 11 x 13 inches it says, and it is pretty accurate. It's not huge. Perfect for my needs. Less than 10 lb.
Question:	How long is the extendable cable for the remote sensor on this light meter
Answer:	it comes hollow and you fill it so the better you fill the more sturdy it becomes
Question:	I bought a light meter that totally skipped over my camera's sync speed of 1/160, 1/250, and 1/320. Does this meter have these to choose from
Answer:	Yes.

REED Instruments LM-81LX Compact Light Meter, 20,000 Lux / 2,000 Foot Candles (Fc)

Reed

Based on 27 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This compact light meter is capable of taking Footcandle (Fc) and Lux measurements. The LM-81LX is an autoranging instrument that keeps track of minimum and maximum readings and features both a data hold function and zero adjustment button.

Easy to operate, compact design
Measuring Range: 0 to 20,000 (Lux) / 0 to 2,000 (Fc)
Basic Accuracy: ±5% of reading
Min/Max and data hold functions, Zero adjustment button
Includes wrist strap and battery

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the accuracy +/- 0.5%? Your website says it is +/- 5%. That is a big difference on accuracy
Answer:	yes, this is the price for one, great quality , nice design
Question:	Can it measure 0.03 in foot candle units
Answer:	It is hollow but set nicely on level surface. Have had at least 3 different styles & sizes and all have been nice.
Question:	Does it hold high and low readings in memory? Or only as long as the hold button is pressed
Answer:	If you're putting a statue on a plinth (base), I would recommend that you buy the base large enough to support the base. (Make sure the base top is as large or larger than the base of the statue).