lighting meters and video

[smelni]

I understand that it is difficult to use a lighting meter for lighting on video because the ASA (ISO) changes at different light levels.

BUT - i was wondering if it becomes a useful tool if you choose a particular f stop to work at. Lets say you choose 2.8 or whatever, you can light till that looks good for you - take a light reading with the meter adjusting the iso until it reads 2.8 - then for the rest of the production wont it be accurate for that particular fstop?

does this make sense?

 

[Gopher_Greene]

Yes, I do it quite often.

 

[smelni]

do you do it only after you have selected a working f-stop or do youjust use the light meter normally

 

[Prof Bob]

Without determining the ISO or speed of your camera, a meter can only give you relative indications. You can figure out the ratio of bright to dark areas, but not f stops. To figure out the ASA/ISO of your camera, point the camera at a gray card. Camera set to auto iris, NO gain, stock settings. The camera should tell you the iris setting.

Now take your meter out and take a reading. Move the film speed setting until it matches the iris setting from the camera. Can't be more specific until I know which meter you are using.

 

[smelni]

problem is the ASA is different at different points of the exposure curve for video

 

[manvsbear]

After using numerous video cameras I have found the mean to be 320 ASA.

It does fluctuate a bit, but at 320 your safe.

 

[timtorpedo]

But I though the DVX's ASA was around 640 ASA... Am I missing something...?

 

[Barry_Green]

The mean for many video cameras is 320; the HVX is 320, etc.

The DVX is 640 (but not at the open side of the lens).

 

[manvsbear]

When I shoot with my DVX I always set my meters for 320. I always get a good picture. But if your not sure, a calibrated monitor is the way to go.