When I view the LCD of my new Sekonic 358 meter straight on, the signs on it seem a bit faded. When I view the LCD at an 45 degree angle from underneath I get the clearest view (strongest read-out). When I view the LCD at an 45 degree angle from above I can read anything...
No... It should be easily visible from any angle and backlight should come in low light conditions.
Try a new battery. The L-358 tends to get funky in general when the battery is low.
If you don't have a battery spare, remove battery for at least 10 sec. to reset the meter and reinsert. Also allow 3 sec. between turning meter on and off (per manual warning).
Unfortunately I don't have a spare new battery... I did what you suggested, removing the battery for at least 10 sec. and re-inserting it but to no effect. I think I will have to return it for another one
Daan, despite what Chuck says, that seems to be the norm. I just looked at my L-358, and the clearest view is from about 45 degrees down. It fades a bit when viewed from 90 degrees (straight-on), and fades almost totally when viewed from the top. I've had this meter for years, it never missed a beat, and I'm sure that the display has been like this from new. My battery is still showing full, too.
rudiphoto wrote:
Daan, despite what Chuck says, that seems to be the norm. I just looked at my L-358, and the clearest view is from about 45 degrees down. It fades a bit when viewed from 90 degrees (straight-on), and fades almost totally when viewed from the top. I've had this meter for years, it never missed a beat, and I'm sure that the display has been like this from new. My battery is still showing full, too.
Yeah, I contacted the dealer about it and he checked the other Sekonic 358's on his shelf... they all have the same viewing angle as you and I describe. Appearantly this angle is most suited to how you use the meter in practice... you most probably will look slightly down at the meter after a reading. So, it is normal... Thanks for the double confirmation
I checked mine and now see what you are talking about. If held at eye level at held vertically the display fades a bit, but I know that all LCD displays are subject to angular variation and surmise viewing angle is optimized for viewing with the meter held flat (near horizontal) in the palm below eye level, how most things are typically read. As you age and need to wear bi-focals you will appreciate how that downward viewing angle is a good thing
FWIW - To take an accurate reading you'd want to stand slightly behind the subject and reach forward placing meter in front of the face, so as not to influence the reading with light reflected from your clothing or blocked it with your shadow. That being the case you wouldn't be in a position to read the meter when taking the reading.
