The Light Meter Explained — How and Why to Use Light Meters

Подробнее о видео

Film Metering — In this video, we look at why light meters continue to be a vital tool for cinematographers.

What is a Light Meter? ►►
Exposure Triangle eBook ►►
Subscribe to StudioBinder Academy ►►
StudioBinder Blog ►►

─────────────────────

Special thanks to:
Paul Jay Orama ►►
Adorama ►► , ,
Shoot Film Like A Boss ►►
Steve O'Nions ►►
Kyle McDougall ►►
DIY Photography ►►
chinfat ►►
Analog Resurgence ►►
Sekonic ►►
Halogen Skies ►►
Apogee Instruments Inc.►►
The Cinematography Lab ►►
SmallHD ►►
Brady Bessette ►►
Jimcostafilms ►►
ZY Cheng ►►
HutchCC Media Production ►►
Lowepost ►►
The Film Look ►►
Meet The Gaffer ►► ,
Pavillion/Dinfos Online Learning ►►
Digital Camera World ►►
Robert Machado ►►
Pictorial Planet ►►
Tom Antos ►►

─────────────────────

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Light Meters
00:45 - Light Meters Defined
01:27 - Chapter 1: Types of Light Meters
04:25 - Chapter 2: Why Use a Light Meter?
07:11 - Chapter 3: How to Use a Light Meter
09:18 - Takeaways

─────────────────────

LIGHT METER FOR BEGINNERS

In the age of digital filmmaking, it may seem like light meters are a thing of the past. Today, digital cameras often have massive dynamic ranges, allowing for a videographer to more easily cover up exposure mistakes in post-production. But most truly great cinematographers use light deliberately and precisely– and to do that, you need a light meter.

SPOT METER VS LIGHT METER

Light meters primarily fall into two categories: incident and reflective. Incident light meters measure the light falling onto the subject. Reflective light meters, on the other hand, measure light reflected off the subject back to the meter. They are also referred to as spot meters, since they measure more specific areas in a frame.

LIGHT METERING

Using a light meter goes beyond just getting the exposure right. It ensures the cinematographer’s visual intent is realized, maintaining continuity across different scenes and setups. Light meters help cinematographers make informed decisions about lighting setups, filter needs, and camera settings, preventing expensive post-production corrections.

HOW TO USE A LIGHT METER FOR FILM

For a light meter to do any of these things, of course, you need to know how to use it. Your process will vary depending on the meter you’re using. For incident meters, position the meter where the subject will be, pointing towards the camera, to measure the direct light. For reflective meters, point the meter toward the subject from the direction of the camera.

Mastering light meters enables cinematographers to craft visually stunning films with intention and precision. From choosing the right type of meter to understanding its application in various lighting conditions, a light meter is an invaluable tool in the cinematographer's toolkit, whether you’re shooting film or digital.


#FilmTheory #VideoEssay #Filmmaking

─────────────────────

♬ SONGS USED:

“Blinded by the Light” - Manfred Mann’s Earth Band
“PingLightning Strike Rescue” - Mark Mothersbaugh
“Sharp Little Guy”- Mark Mothersbaugh
The Wanderer” - Makeup and Vanity Set
“Tannhauser Gate” - Makeup and Vanity Set
“Quantum IV” - Makeup and Vanity Set
“No Regrets” - Makeup and Vanity Set
“Top Gun” - Harold Faltermeyer
“Los Paramos” - Makeup and Vanity Set
“Salome” - Makeup and Vanity Set
“Go” - Makeup and Vanity Set
“Blood Trails” - Carter Burwell
“The Corridor” - Makeup and Vanity Set
“Discovery” - Makeup and Vanity Set
“Aegus” - Makeup and Vanity Set

Music by Artlist ►
Music by MusicBed ►

─────────────────────

SUBSCRIBE to StudioBinder’s YouTube channel! ►►

Looking for a project management platform for your filmmaking? StudioBinder is an intuitive project management solution for video creatives; create shooting schedules, breakdowns, production calendars, shot lists, storyboards, call sheets and more.

Try StudioBinder for FREE today:

— Join us on Social Media! —

Instagram ►►
Facebook ►►
Twitter ►►

#film-theory, #video-essay, #filmmaker