Introductory Light Meter for Still Photography and HVX cinematography?

S

sbryan

Well-known member
Of course I want the Sekonic L-758C, but it's out of my price range of $300-350.

I use a couple of flashes, basic light kits, Canon Digital, and an HVX... nothing that requires an extraordinary light meter right now.

If you guys could recommend a meter below or in that price range to get me by until I can afford that Sekonic, I would appreciate it.

Thanks!
 
Maybe a used Sekonic L758C from Ebay? That really is about the best around. Its possible to get a bargain used one from someone with high feedback.
 
You should try and stray away from using your lightmeter with your HVX. It will be terribly inaccurate for a lot of things. I have used meters successfully on video for lighting green screens and figuring out contrast ratios. Other than that, you're better off lookin' at your scopes.

As for the ebay idea, it is a great one. I just bought my L-758C off of ebay for pretty cheap and the thing is brand new. I would be kicking myself if I bought it anywhere else.
 
What's a good price for the L-758C on eBay? Did you buy from one of the Hong Kong dealers on there (They sell the meter for the lowest cost)?
 
sbryan said:
What's a good price for the L-758C on eBay? Did you buy from one of the Hong Kong dealers on there (They sell the meter for the lowest cost)?
Click to expand...

In things 'photo' when an off shore... or even on shore seller is offering 'steep/significant' discounts on an item it may be a 'grey' market item, that is not authorized for sale in the US. What that means to you as the consumer is that your warrenty is worthless in the US... so, sure, if you live in Hong Kong... and the wartenty is valid in Hong Kong... go for it...

I tend to buy new, and with US warrenty, since that's were I'm located... or figure out how to do without...

Alternatively, rent and see if it 'works' for you...
 
Since I spend most my time in China, yes I bought in HK and picked it up there since we live just over the border. If I were in the USA and had the time, I would have pursued a used one though. I think I paid about $350 and it was new. Had it for a year and a half and no problems yet.
 
Video cameras are basically light meters unlike fim cameras. You can use a meter for setting light levels without the camera around or as suggested just use the scopes or even the zebras of your HVX.

I have a Spectra Pro Digital incident meter and I use it sometimes. Meters are good for learning more about lighting, ratios, setting light levels without lugging a camera around, I like taking notes of footcandles on lighting setups in case I need to recreate it again. I really like my meter, but with video you don't need one. Wait until you have the money saved up for the right meter, until then use your camera as a meter.
 
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