10 best studio light meters

Studio light meters are essential tools in photography and videography studios used to measure and evaluate the intensity of light. They are invaluable for achieving precise and consistent lighting setups, ensuring proper exposure, and maintaining a high level of control over the lighting environment. Here's what you need to know about studio light meters:

  1. Function: A studio light meter measures the intensity of both continuous and strobe lighting. It provides accurate readings of the light levels in a studio or on a set. This information helps photographers and videographers adjust camera settings, such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, to achieve the desired exposure.

  2. Types of Light Meters:

    • Incident Light Meters: These meters measure the light falling on a subject. They are commonly used for portrait and studio photography, as they provide a reading of the actual light reaching the subject's face or object.Incident light meters are often held close to the subject to take readings.

    • Reflective Light Meters: Reflective meters measure the light reflected off a subject or surface. They are useful for determining exposure when the light source is behind the camera. Photographers point the meter towards the subject to take readings.

  3. Features:

    • Light Meter Readings: Light meters display measurements in various units, including lux, foot-candles, and EV (exposure value).

    • Metering Modes: Many modern light meters offer multiple metering modes, including spot, average, and custom modes. These modes allow photographers to fine-tune exposure readings.

    • Flash Metering: Studio light meters often include flash metering capabilities, allowing photographers to measure the output of studio strobes or external flash units.

    • Memory and Storage: Some models can store exposure readings, making it easier to compare settings when working on multiple shots or scenes.

    • Calibration: Light meters should be regularly calibrated to maintain accuracy. Some models allow users to adjust settings to match the specific requirements of their cameras.

  4. Advantages:

    • Consistency: Light meters help achieve consistent and repeatable lighting setups, especially in a studio environment where control is crucial.

    • Efficiency: They save time by providing accurate exposure settings quickly, reducing the need for trial and error.

    • Precision: Light meters allow photographers to fine-tune lighting setups to achieve the desired mood, contrast, and effects.

  5. Usage:

    • Photography Studios: Studio light meters are commonly used in portrait, fashion, product, and still life photography studios.

    • Cinematography: They are essential tools in the film industry to ensure proper exposure and lighting consistency between shots.

  6. Compatibility: Studio light meters are compatible with various lighting equipment, including continuous lighting sources such as tungsten, fluorescent, and LED lights, as well as strobe lights and external flashes.

Overall, studio light meters are indispensable tools for professionals and serious enthusiasts in photography and videography. They help ensure that the lighting in a studio or on a set is precisely controlled, resulting in well-exposed and visually appealing images and videos.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best studio 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 L-398A Light Meter Studio Deluxe III (401-399),Black

Sekonic

Based on 65 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sekonic has redesigned their popular analog light meter to more current industry standards. The Studio Deluxe III L-398A retains all of the legendary features and benefits of its predecessor. Using an environmentally-friendly amorphous silicon photocell, Sekonic can continue to offer the popular L-398 battery-free. The L-398A offers both "Still" and "Cine" shooters the familiar features and repeatable accuracy expected from Sekonic.

From the Manufacturer

  • ONLY SEKONIC METERS THAT ARE SHIPPED BY AND SOLD BY AMAZON.COM OR OTHER AUTHORIZED SEKONIC DEALERS CAN ENSURE THAT YOU ARE RECEIVING GOODS THAT HAVE PROPER FCC COMMUNICATION AND ARE COVERED BY A USA WARRANTY. THE AMAZON OFFER MAY BE SEEN TO THE RIGHT. GREY MARKET SEKONIC METERS WILL NOT APPLICABLE FOR A US WARRANTY.
  • Ideal prime or back-up meter for still photography and cinematography use
  • Amorphous photocell requires no batteries or external power source.
  • ISO range 6 to 12,000 in 1/3 step increments
  • 60-seconds to 1/8000th, f/0.7 to f/128, 8-fps to 128-fps

User questions & answers

Question: Where it's made
Answer: No it does not.
Question: can i use this meter for the zone system
Answer: IIRC, the P1G-10 grille will fit this subwoofer. I believe you unscrew the top ring (the thing that says punch on it), put the grille into place, and replace the top ring.
Question: Does "amorphous photocell" mean the old cds cadmium sulfide cells? i thought they had a problem, spectral sensitivity, that's why we didn't use them
Answer: 17-1/16"W x 13-1/4"H x 16-1/8"D1 x 13-7/8"D2. Thank you.
Question: Can this be used for strobe/flash
Answer: Its the enclosure and the subwoofer, plywood isnt gonna cost you 140 bucks ;) its a gread speaker extreamly high quality been using it in a hatch for over a year with zero issues

Neewer Heavy-Duty Light Stand 13 Feet/4 Meters Spring Cushioned Aluminum Alloy Pro Photography Tripod Stand Photo Studio Adjustable Light Stand for Photography Lighting Equipment (Silver)

Neewer

Based on 49 reviews Check latest price

Product description

NOTE: Only the light stand is included.

Description:

It is perfect for photo studio and on site photo and video shoots.

Made of aluminum alloy, making it strong for heavy duty work.

The light stand features 3 legs that angle outward and connect to the center post for ultimate stability and strength.

A 1/4-inch screw tip makes it easy to connect standard stay-on lights, flashing strobe lights, and backgrounds, etc. Attachments stay in place and can be quickly switched out as needed.

To adjust the stand height, simply turn the knob to loosen or tighten.

It is also of light weight and can be folded into a small size, making it portable and easy to store after use.

Specifications:

Folded Height (Approx.): 4 Feet/1.25 Meters

Minimum Height (Approx.): 4.8 Feet/1.48 Meters

Maximum Height (Approx.): 13 Feet/4 Meters

Weight: 10.6 pounds/4.8 kilograms

Max. load capacity (Approx.): 22 lbs/10kg

Tube Diameter: 22-25-30-35mm

Segments: 3

Package Contents:

1X 4 Meters Sliver Light Stand (Silver)

  • The light stand is made of strong aluminum alloy, making it strong for heavy duty work
  • Spring cushioned design can protect your photographic equipment from damage. It is perfect for photo studio and on site photo and video shoots
  • It is also of light weight and can be folded into a small size (4 feet), making it portable and easy to store after use. Its solid locking capabilities makes your lights safe
  • Made by the industrial standard, 1/4"-20 Threaded Top supports all major brands of photo equipment such as reflector, softbox, different lights, umbrella, background, strobe flash lights, etc
  • Height is adjustable from 4.8-13 Feet. Max. load of 22 lbs/10kg

User questions & answers

Question: Can you rotate the central column when set up
Answer: Yes. It is multipositional in that it features a ball mount
Question: How much weight can this stand support
Answer: I'm not exactly sure regarding weight, but I use mine to hold a 2' x 2' LED light array that weighs around 10lbs. It holds that up with no trouble whatsoever and is very stable as well. I hope this helps.
Question: Does the top adaptor have both 1/4" 20 and 3/8" 16 screw mounts
Answer: No, the stand comes with a single screw that fits only the Neewer mount. However, an after-purchase mount is offered for sale that is sturdier. It seats in the top of the stand with a single ball mount featuring a camera base thread screw.
Question: What's the black tip at the top for? Do I need to keep it
Answer: Protection of the tip for some products that need to be screwed in.

Product features

Neewer 13 Feet/4 Meters Spring Cushioned Aluminum Alloy Pro Photography Tripod Light Stand

  • Neewer Light Stand with unique spring-cushioned design provides more stable and much safer support for various lighting equipment. Perfect for photo studio and on site photo and video shots.
  • A 1/4-inch screw tip makes it easy to connect to standard stay-on lights, flashing strobe lights, backgrounds, etc. Attachments stay in place and can be quickly switched out as needed.
  • To adjust the stand height, simply turn the knob to loosen or tighten.
  • It is also of light weight and can be folded into a compact size, making it portable and easy to store after use.
  • NOTE: Only the light stand is included.

Specifications:

  • Folded Height (Approx.): 4 Feet/1.25 Meters
  • Minimum Height (Approx.): 4.8 Feet/1.48 Meters
  • Maximum Height (Approx.): 13 Feet/4 Meters
  • Weight: 10.6 pounds/4.8 kilograms
  • Max. load capacity (Approx.): 22 lbs/10kg
  • Tube Diameter: 22-25-30-35mm
  • Segments: 3

Package Contents:

  • 1X 4 Meters Sliver Light Stand (Silver)

Durable Aluminum Alloy Structure

  • This light stand is constructed from aluminum alloy, which gives it exceptional strength for heavy duty work.
  • For simple storage and transport, the stand collapses easily and is very lightweight to carry.

Speical Spring-cushioned Design

  • Built-in buffer spring helps reduce the impact of a sudden sharp drop of the installed equipment when adjusting the height, which greatly helps protect the safety of your lighting equipment.

Strong Connection Joint

  • Its solid locking capabilities ensure the safety of your lighting equipment when in use. Compliant with industry standards, this stand supports all major photo equipment including reflectors, softboxes, lights, umbrellas, backgrounds and more.

Stable 3-Leg Support

  • The light stand features 3 legs that angle outward and connect to the center post for ultimate stability and strength.

Neewer Heavy-Duty Light Stand 13 Feet/4 Meters Spring Cushioned Aluminum Alloy Pro Photography Tripod Stand Photo Studio Adjustable Light Stand

Neewer

Based on 85 reviews Check latest price

Product description

NOTE: Only the light stand is included.

Description:

It is perfect for photo studio and on site photo and video shoots.

Made of aluminum alloy, making it strong for heavy duty work.

The light stand features 3 legs that angle outward and connect to the center post for ultimate stability and strength.

A 1/4-inch screw tip makes it easy to connect standard stay-on lights, flashing strobe lights, and backgrounds, etc. Attachments stay in place and can be quickly switched out as needed.

To adjust the stand height, simply turn the knob to loosen or tighten.

It is also of light weight and can be folded into a small size, making it portable and easy to store after use.

Specifications:

Folded Height (Approx.): 3.8 Feet/1.16 Meters

Minimum Height (Approx.): 4.5 Feet/1.37 Meters

Maximum Height (Approx.): 13 Feet/4 Meters

Weight: 10.6 pounds/4.8 kilograms

Max. load capacity (Approx.): 22 lbs/10kg

Tube Diameter: 22-25-30-35mm

Segments: 3

Package Contents:

1X 4 Meters Light Stand

  • The light stand is made of strong aluminum alloy with a sleek black finish, making it strong for heavy duty work
  • Spring cushioned design can protect your photographic equipment from damage. It is perfect for photo studio and on site photo and video shoots
  • It is also of light weight and can be folded into a small size (3.8 feet/1.16 meters), making it portable and easy to store after use. Its solid locking capabilities makes your lights safe
  • Made by the industrial standard, 1/4"-20 Threaded Top supports all major brands of photo equipment such as reflector, softbox, different lights, umbrella, background, strobe flash lights, etc
  • Height is adjustable from 4.5-13 Feet. Max. load of 22 lbs/10kg

User questions & answers

Question: Are the knobs on this stand metal or plastic
Answer: No promble, you can receive the dress on time.
Question: I'm limited in space on upcoming shoot, so is it possible to use w/ smaller footprint w/o middle post touching ground or stand losing stability. Thx
Answer: Sure, please choose "One Size" for custom measurement.
Question: Does this not include a bag
Answer: Yes Unit Comes with Fax Capability Included Green World Copier and Supplies
Question: Can this be used as a camcorder mount for recording sports
Answer: Yes

Product features

Neewer 13 Feet/4 Meters Heavy-Duty Spring-Cushioned Aluminum Alloy Photography Tripod Stand

  • Wide Application: Perfect for photo studio and on site photo and video shoots; a 1/4-inch screw tip makes it easy to connect standard stay-on lights, flashing strobe lights, and backgrounds, etc.
  • Easy Height Adjustment: To adjust the stand height, simply turn the knob to get loosen or tighten
  • Lightweight and Portable: It is also of light weight and can be folded into a small size, making it portable and easy to store after use.
  • NOTE: Only the light stand is included.

Specifications:

  • Folded Height (Approx.): 3.8 Feet/1.16 Meters
  • Minimum Height (Approx.): 4.5 Feet/1.37 Meters
  • Maximum Height (Approx.): 13 Feet/4 Meters
  • Weight: 10.6 pounds/4.8 kilograms
  • Max. load capacity (Approx.): 22 lbs/10kg
  • Tube Diameter: 22-25-30-35mm
  • Segments: 3

Package Contents:

  • 1X 4 Meters Light Stand

Duable Aluminum Alloy Material

  • The light stand is made of aluminum alloy, making it strong for heavy duty work. Max. load capacity is 22 lbs / 10kg.

Spceial Built-in Buffer Spring

  • Unique design with Built-in Buffer Spring helps reduce the impact of sudden drop of the installed equipment when adjusting the height so as to protect the equipment.

Strong Connection Joint

  • Equipped with strong connection joint, solid locking capability makes your lighting equipment much safer.

Stable 3-leg Support

  • The light stand features 3 legs that angle outward, connecting to the center post for ultimate stability and strength.

DB Audio Level Header Testing Tool VU Meter audio equipment tool DB Level Header white light 12V 55mA bulb recording studio for DIY with pointer type dial

Shipenophy

Product description

Feature:

1. High‑accuracy VU meter header is made of high‑quality materials, and wear‑resistant.

2. Equipped with pointer type dial, high accuracy, can directly display the measurement results.

3. It is the most basic tool in audio equipment, sensitive to measurement, easy to install and use.

4. With white light 12V 55mA bulb, high definition, it can be used normally at night.

5. Suitable for DIY, recording studio, home audio, car audio transform, etc.



Specification:

Condition: 100% Brand New

Item Type: VU Meter Header

Material: ABS

Model: TN-90-8735

Current Sensitivity: 500uA ± 10%

Internal DC Impedance: 650Ω±10%

Friction: ±1mm

Insulation Resistance: Above 50Ω

Bulb: White Light 12V 55mA

Test Environment: Temperature: 20℃; Humidity: 70%



Package List:

1 x VU Meter Header

  • With white light 12V 55mA bulb, high definition, it can be used normally at night.
  • Equipped with pointer type dial, high accuracy, can directly display the measurement results.
  • High‑accuracy VU meter header is made of high‑quality materials, and wear‑resistant.
  • It is the most basic tool in audio equipment, sensitive to measurement, easy to install and use.
  • Suitable for DIY, recording studio, home audio, car audio transform, etc.

Neewer Light Stands 10 Feet/3 Meters, Pro Heavy Duty Spring Cushioned, All Metal Locking Collars, Set of 2 (Black Finish) with Carry Bags and Sandbags for Photo Video Photography HTC Vive, etc

Neewer

Based on 64 reviews Check latest price

Product description

NOTE: The strobe light, camera, softbox and backdrop are not included in the package. Sandbag comes EMPTY.

Description:

Spring Cushioned Light Stands

With built-in buffer spring, the two light stands are very solid and can bear 10 kilograms. Great for using at home and in professional studio.

These professional stands have a black non-glare finish, aluminum tube construction, lightweight yet very strong, solid safety triangular frame, double tube and non-slip feet.

The tripod stand is designed with all-metal rotary adjustment and locking knob for easy adjustment and locking.

It is very easy to install for use and take down for store. (Just needs a few seconds.)

1/4inches Screw increased the expandability and adaptability of the light stands, you can keep your camera, ball head, ring light, studio light, phone clamp on it.

A good choice for those who are looking for durable, balance, safety backdrop support stand kit.

Material: Aluminum Alloy

Maximum Height: 10feet/3meters

Minimum Height: 42.7 inches/120 centimeters

Folded Height: 43.7 inches/111 centimeters

Maximium Load Capacity: 22 pounds/10 kilograms

Sand Bags:

Sand bags ensure a strong hold for those extra heavy backdrops. Made from durable nylon material.

Prevent collapse due to excessive weight of connected objects.

Package Contents:

2 x Tripod Light Stand

2 x Empty Sandbag

2 x Carrying Bag

  • KIT INCLUDES: Tripod Light Stand with Built-in Buffer Spring Cushion, Sandbags, Carrying Bags; Compatible with HTC VIVE in photo video shooting and suitable for using at home or any personal or professional studio; (Note: backdrop, studio light, softbox NOT Included; Sandbag comes EMPTY)
  • SPRING-CUSHIONED AND ADJUSTABLE STANDS: Designed with built-in buffer spring, the 2 stands have great flexibility and strong resistance to fall, better protect your light or other equipment installed on them, and each stand can bear 10 kilograms' maximum load; the height of the two stands can be easily adjusted at will from Min. 47.2 inches/120 centimeters to Max. 10feet/3meters; Folded into 43.7inches/centimeters
  • STURDY AND DURABLE: Stable triangular frame combined with double tube and non-slip feet, the two tripod stands are very stable and perfect for supporting your light without any wobble; Constructed from aluminum alloy for great durability, it allows a long time to use; With all metal locking collars for durable use, easy adjustment and locking
  • HEAVY-DUTY SANDBAGS: The two sandbags with premium quality allow you to easily control the counterweight and better stabilize your lighting setup. The balance of the weight is up to you, and you can change the weight of the sandbag to create angles of your photography
  • WIDE APPLICATION: 1/4inches screw increased the expandability and adaptability of the light stands, and you can keep your camera, ball head, ring light, studio light, phone clamp on it; The Stand can be used as background stand, light stand and can compatible with HTC VIVE; With 2 durable carrying bags, it will be easier and convenient to carry the stand anywhere

Product features

Neewer Spring Cushioned Light Stands 10 Feet/3 Meters with Carry Bags and Sandbags

  • Special design with built-in buffer spring, the two light stands are stable and solid and can bear 10 kilograms.
  • Black non-glare finish, aluminum tube construction, lightweight yet very strong, solid safety triangular frame, double tube and non-slip feet.
  • Designed with all-metal rotary adjustment and locking knob for easy adjustment and locking.
  • 1/4inches screw allows it to support most photography equipment, including camera, ball head, ring light, studio light, phone clamp, etc.

Neewer Photo Studio 13 feet/3.9 Meters 2-in-1 Light Stand with 74.8-inch Boom Arm and Blue Sandbag for Supporting Softbox Studio Flash for Video Portrait Photography, Aluminum Alloy (Empty Sandbag)

Neewer

Based on 691 reviews Check latest price

Product description

NOTE 1: Softbox is not included.

NOTE 2: The boom arm cannot be used alone as a light stand.

NOTE 3: Sandbag comes empty.

Description:

Neewer Light boom stand is widely used for mounting strobe lights, reflectors, umbrellas, softboxes, monolights and other photographic equipment. Perfect to use outdoor and indoor.

The height of the light stand and the length of the arm can be adjusted accordingly and simply to meet different shooting requirement.

Stable 3-leg structure and solid locking system allows it to be fixed firmly in a place.

Premium material and heavy duty structure make it strong enough to use for quite a long time, ensuring the safety of your photographic equipments when in use.

Sturdy but lightweight design for easy carrying, making your trip more convenient with this portable stand.

The sandbag allows you to easily control the counterweight and better stabilizes your lighting setup. The balance of the weight is up to you, because you can change the weight of the sandbag to create angles of your photography.

It is very easy to install for use and take down for store.(Just needs a few seconds.)

It is a good choice for those who are looking for durable, balance and also safety support stand.

Specification:

Maximum Height: 153.54 inches/390 centimeters

Minimum Height: 59.06 inches/150 centimeters

Maximum Length (Arm Bar): 74.8 inches/190 centimeters

Arm Bar Rotation Angle: 180 Degree

Light Stand Screw: 1/4 inch

Package Contents:

1 x Light Stand with Boom Arm

1 x Sandbag (Blue)

User questions & answers

Question: Are ALL the components of this item metal
Answer: I have the iPhone 7 plus. It doesn't have the headphone jack but they give you port to plug into so you can use headphones
Question: Is there a thumbscrew to tighten the boom arm in place once you have the desired angle or do you have to use the sandbag to counterweight like shown
Answer: Yeah it's the original Case-Mate brand.
Question: My led lights are 11 lbs. will this hold them in an overhead position
Answer: Yes, but if you're going to use it on an iPhone 7 with black piano finish, then you're not going to like it. It leaves streaks as the material of the cover touches the back of the phone. Do not buy it.
Question: will a camera mount on this without any mods
Answer: It is not sticky. I have an iPhone 7 and it fits perfectly. I’m not sure about the iPhone 8...

Issuntex 10X20 ft/3X6 Meters Light Gray Background Photo Backdrop,Photo Studio,Collapsible High Density Screen for Video Photography and Television

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

WHY TO CHOOSE OUR BACKGROUND?

一:We use high quality fabrics.

  1. Soft
  2. Non-gloss
  3. High density
  4. Wrinkle resistant
  5. Machine washable

二:There are many sizes and colors to choose from 

  •    Size:6X9ft/10X12ft/10X20ft
  •    Color:Green/Black/White

Note:Background Stands not included

If necessary,pleaseiron the back surface with steam iron but not dry iron.

  • Size: 10X20ft(3X6M) Background,perfect for television,video production and digital photography
  • Soft fabric: High quality soft fabrics, effective wrinkle resistance
  • Non-gloss: Microfiber non reflective and non-gloss surface
  • Easy to install: Rod pocket on each top edge allows to be draped or hung
  • Easy to care: Simply dust off the surface and it will be ready to use.Machine washable.

User questions & answers

Question: Can I use this to project movies from my projector
Answer: My Sekonic L-398A light meter was made in Japan. I have owned it for about 30 years. It still works as good as it did the day that I bought it. Not sure where they are making them now.
Question: Would this work as a projector screen
Answer: No; the Zone System requires a reflected spot meter. The Sekonic L-758 meter has a 1 degree spot that can be used for this.
Question: Does it come with Stand also
Answer: It is not cadmium sulfide, as CdS only vary resistance with light and requires an external power supply. I believe these are selenium cells that produce a current with light and therefore require no battery to operate. The problem is this type of light meter cannot handle low light levels. I would say outdoor use only. It is a very reliable light meter that has been giving me excellent exposures for years (given that I know under what conditions to adjust for light/dark ratio of the scene).
Question: Can this be used sideways? Trying to make a backdrop for automotive photography
Answer: No. This is a very simple, nearly fool proof manual meter. No battery to wear out. No contacts to activate a flash with.

Neewer 10 Feet/3 Meters C-Stand Light Stand with 4 Feet/1.2 Meters Extension Boom Arm, 2 Pieces Grip Head and Carry Bag for Photography Studio Video Reflector, Umbrella, Monolight, etc (Basic Version)

Neewer

Based on 150 reviews Check latest price

Product description

NOTE: Only the stand with boom and carrying bag are included. Monolight, reflector, umbrella are NOT included

NOTE: When you adjust the angle under the conditions that the weight on both sides of the joint head is not balanced, it will damage the screw that connects the two halves of the joint. SO PLEASE hold the rear part of the arm to keep the arm balanced firstly before adjusting the angle.

Description:

Made of corrosion-resistant and long-lasting stainless steel, it can protect the light stand from air pollution and salt exposure.

Rubber padded provides a comfortable feeling and prevents it from sliding when you move.

3 legs at the bottom are spread in 120 degree which achieve your equipment more stable.

Specification:

Material: Stainless Steel

Center Column Maximum Height: 10ft/120inches/305cm

Center Column Minimum Height: 4.9ft/59inches/150cm

Extension Arm Length: 4ft/47inches/120cm

Package Contents:

1 x Center Stand Column

1 x Boom Arm

2 x Grip Head

1 x C-stand Base

1 x Carrying Bag

  • PACKAGE INCLUDES: 10ft/305CM Center Stand Column; 4ft/120CM Boom Arm; Grip Head; C-stand Base; Carrying bag. Note: Only the stand with boom and carrying bag are included. Monolight, reflector, umbrella are NOT included
  • HEAVY DUTY C STAND: Made of corrosion-resistant and long-lasting stainless steel, protecting the light stand from air pollution and salt exposure. Rubber padded provides a comfortable feeling and prevents it from sliding when you move
  • ADJUSTABLE AND STABLE: Height of center stand column can be adjusted from 59inches to 120inches, providing you more different shooting options. 3 legs at the bottom are spread in 120 degree which makes your equipment more stable
  • WIDE APPLICATION: Designed with 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch screw tip, applicable to most photographic equipment, such as photography studio video reflector, umbrella, monolight, backdrops and other photographic equipment
  • CONVENIENT CARRYING: The detachable structure makes transportation very convenient. Comes with a carrying bag, very easy for you to carry around; NOTE: When you adjust the angle under the conditions that the weight on both sides of the joint head is not balanced, it will damage the screw that connects the two halves of the joint. SO PLEASE hold the rear part of the arm to keep the arm balanced firstly before adjusting the angle

Product features

Neewer C-Stand Light Stand with Extension Boom Arm(Basic Version)

  • Durable stainless steel finished can withstand harsh conditions, giving it a longer service time and exceptional strength for heavy duty.
  • 2 screw thread on each side of the boom arm for more application with light.
  • NOTE: When you adjust the angle when the weight on both sides of the joint head is not balanced, it will damage the screw that connects the two halves of the joint. SO PLEASE hold the rear part of the arm to keep the arm balanced firstly before adjusting the angle.

Neewer 2-Pack Heavy Duty Light Stand C-Stand - Max. 10 feet/3 Meters Adjustable with 3.5 feet Holding Arm and Grip Head for Studio Video Reflector, Monolight and Other Photographic Equipment (Black)

Neewer

Based on 162 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description:

Neewer light stand is perfect for supporting most photographic equipment, including softbox, reflector, strobe light, etc. Suitable to use for indoor photo studio portrait, arts, magazine, video shooting or outdoor events.

Sturdy 3-leg stage combines with solid locking system which ensures the safety of the equipment.

Steel material and heavy duty structure make it durable for long time use.

Sandbags can be placed on the legs to increase the base weight (Note: Sandbag is NOT INCLUDED).

Portable lightweight design for easier carrying, making your trip more convenient.

Specifications:

Center Stand Maximum Height: 10 feet/3.05 meters

Center Stand Minimum Height: 4 feet/1.2 meter

Boom Arm Length: 3.5 feet/1.07 meters

Material: Steel

Color: Black

Package Contents:

2 x Center Stand

2 x Holding Arm

4 x Grip Head

  • PACKAGE INCLUDEDS: Center Stand, Holding Arm, Grip Head; It is a great support for most of photographic equipment, such as softbox, umbrellas, strobe/flash light, and reflector. Ideal for using both indoor and outdoor
  • ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT: Adjustable height ranges from 4 feet/1.2 meter to 10 feet/3.05 meters; By using flexible rotate switch, you can feel free to adjust the height for meeting different shooting requirement. Holding arm length: 3.5 feet/1.07 meters; Easily attach to other equipment with its knob and spiral screw
  • HEAVY DUTY CONSTRUCTION: Pretty stable 3-leg stage design makes it sturdy enough to hold most equipment. Equipped with simple but solid locking system, it keeps all your stuff in safe without worrying any poor structure ruins your shooting schedule
  • LONG-LASTING: Made of durable steel material, this stand is corrosion resistant and long-lasting, avoiding rusting wherever you place it
  • PORTABLE: Strong but compact design makes it portable to carry around; Easy to assemble and take apart, saving much of your time

User questions & answers

Question: Can you connect the two holding arms together to make a rod for a backdrop
Answer: No. This item is just the drop.
Question: What’s the difference between the stainless steel and steel metal in these stands? Is it a quality difference
Answer: It's 10x10 ;>)

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