Spot Meters

Expert photographers add spot meters to their arsenal of photography equipment. When used correctly a spot meter will precisely measure light in a small, focused area.

Spot metering is found on many digital cameras. The symbol is usually a small rectangle with a dot surrounded by two curved lines in the center. Once the spot meter is activated a small bracket appears on the camera screen. The meter will measure the light of any area inside the brackets. Built-in spot metering measures in percentage of the frame depending on the length of the camera lens. Using this tool correctly helps to prevent over and under exposures.

Hand held spot meters generally include more options than built-in spot meters. This type of spot meter measures in angle degrees down to 1. This helps to take better photographs of complex areas. Aim the meter at a moderately bright, not the brightest, spot and click once to get a light measurement. Then turn the camera back to frame the entire area to get a balanced photograph.

Spot meters use the reflective reading method, which means they measure the light reflecting off a subject. This method works great for measuring light in backgrounds, distant objects, highly reflective areas, over brightness, and moving subjects.

Many photographers use a Pentax spot meter in their photography sessions. The Pentax Spotmeter V received great reviews, five stars out of five. This version is no longer sold. Photographers can find used versions online through electronic stores and auction sites.

One Sekonic spot meter, the L-558R Dualmaster, boasts it contains three meters in one. It offers a one degree spot meter, digital incident measurements as well as a flash light meter. The spot viewfinder gives digital readouts for accuracy readings. It features a built-in retractable incident dome (Lumisphere) to get full or narrow angle measurements. This meter takes both ambient and flash measurements. What sets this meter apart from others is the built in internal digital radio transmitter module that is compatible with all PocketWizard digital radios. At a price near five hundred dollars this meter is well worth the money for experienced photographers.

Another useful device is the Soligor Digital Spot Meter, now known as the Adorama Digital Spot Meter. Some sellers on online auction sites like eBay offer used and in working order Soligor Digital Spot sensors for very low prices.

Many hand held spot meters are sold as part of a flash or light meter. Search online for more information on different brands and styles.