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I have to agree with the others. The light meter would save some time if that is a factor. Also, if you are shooting for external clients who are present, then it definitely adds to your professionalism by having minimal test shots and changes.

So if you do want to get a lightmeter, don't worry about too many functions. The Sekonic L-308s mentioned earlier is only about ?150, and will last!

Just my 2 cents.

A handheld meter is essential to get accurate lighting ratios ... that's where its power lies ...

Getting correct exposure is another issue.

I have a Sekonic light meter - used it twice in 8 years, I find it more long winded than using the camera's histogram.

Perhaps I didn't give it enough practice but I remember thinking what a waste of time and added more faffing about to a shoot.

That aside I still think the camera's preview is the best setup method, especially when using multiple lights.

When I bought my first studio lights years ago, the salesman said, "and you'll need a light meter..."

I said "Will I?" He looked at me sadly and condescendingly. I thought to myself that I had a digital camera and I could see if I had the levels right after the first shot, but I didn't want to appear a fool, so I bought a cheap one. After trying out the lights I realised that the camera only ever confirmed what the meter said.

I still use it though to make me look a bit more professional and to keep models amused for a while balancing it between their breasts while I untangle power cables.

I can see where marmaladecat is coming from, though. If you are doing serious studio photography and you want subtle light differences across the subject it helps to measure the relative levels rather than trial and error - but how many porn people are doing that?

>but how many porn people are doing that?

Not me, well not with my porn trilby on

But yes, for serious commercial stuff it's essential ... not for showing off. Usually time is at a premium and you need to get shots set-up quickly ... and get the same lighting as last time ... or copy something your client has seen ... or shoot in a studio with different characteristics ... the list goes on

+1

to say that a light meter is essential in the world of digital sounds as if it is a statement made by someone with a vested interest in their survival.

They are expensive, largely superfluous and redundant items...

I have a Sekonic L-508 Cine. A spotmeter is very useful to check that the key/fill ratio between the two sides of a model's face, for instance, are perfect, which an in-camera histogram won't tell you. However, I've never used it for porn. Everything is typically just too fast and furious to have the time to take that much care!

I'd really love to work on some really high production values porn, but I can't see how it would work economically. It would take weeks to shoot a DVD rather than the usual one day!

Fred

sekonic it looks to be then.i will see if there are any decent priced ones knocking about on ebay