How to Choose a Light Meter

Determine a budget. Basic light meter models can be found for $30, whereas advanced models with programmable functions and settings can cost several hundred dollars. Your budget may rule out certain features and models, so it is important to establish how much you are willing to spend early on.

Select an incident light meter if you are shooting indoors, using a professional lighting kit or if you work in studio conditions most of the time. An incident meter will measure the amount of light falling onto your subject, rather than the light which is reflected back from the subject itself. In order to use this type of meter, you must be able to stand close to your subject, making it ideal for close-range shooting conditions.

Choose a reflective light meter if you work in changeable conditions or cannot get close to your subject for a reading. This type of meter measures the light that is reflected off of your subject, similar to an in-camera meter, and is ideal for long-distance shooting.

Pick a combined function meter which can measure both incident and reflected light if you are a photographer who works in versatile conditions, such as weddings. This will allow you to choose which type of light you are metering without having to carry more than one meter for the job.

Handle the light meter in person, if possible, before purchasing. Are the controls easy to read and change? Is this model durable enough to handle day-to-day use in your line of work? These questions will help you determine whether the meter will be easy to work with and save you time, rather than cost you moments during a shoot.