16 29 June 2019 I http://www.amateurphotographer.co.uk I subscribe 0330 333 1113
KIT LIST
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ALL PICTURES © ROSS HODDINOTTGrey
card
If you place a grey
card in front of your
subject – in the same light – take a
spot-meter reading from it, and lock
in these settings, you will achieve
correct exposure. These days most
photographers prefer to use
histograms instead.
Handheld
light meter
A handheld light
meter is the most
precise tool for
measuring light.
Unlike your camera’s
TTL metering, it isn’t
deceived by extreme
contrast or side-
lighting. While they are
useful for some types of photography
they are no longer essential.
Light metering app
A cheaper and more convenient
alternative to buying a light meter is
a smartphone app. Consider Pocket
Light Meter, Photometer,
myLightMeter and
Lux Light Meter,
which all turn
your phone into
a meter capable
of measuring
reflected light.
Exposure
calculator app
One of the best apps for helping with
exposure is Exposure Calculator (by
Quicosoft, available on Google Play).
It aids in the calculation of equivalent
exposures using alternative
parameters or with
filters added.
The app has a
built-in timer
and an alarm
for bulb
exposures.
Technique
Neutral density
(ND) fi lters
ND filters are useful accessories for
manipulating exposure. They are dark
grey filters that absorb light in order
to artificially extend exposure length.
ND filters come in a range of
densities. They are useful
for creatively blurring
subject motion.