There are less expensive meters which will perform the basic function of flash metering, but the L-358 has additional features such as the ability to display what % and f/stop flash is contributing in a fill flash situation outdoors, the ability to wirelessly trigger Pocket Wizards with the optional transmitter module, and an easy way to compensate it to the true ISO speed of the camera which is a must for accurate results. Its a tool you won't outgrow or feel you need to replace in a year or so.
I have written a tutorial based around the L-358 explaining metering for ratios and exposure and how the compenstate the meter to a camera: Metering and Ratios Demystified
FWIW - the batteries used by the meter are Lithium C123 batteries which are quite easy to find and have a long shelf life. They were the type commonly used in P&S film cameras (my Pentax P&S uses the same one).
I cut a slit in the inside lining of the meter case to create a pocket in the inside of the flap portion and use it to store a spare battery and the Lumigrid, the attachment used (or more accurately never used and usually lost) for measuring reflected light with the meter.
cgardner wrote:
I cut a slit in the inside lining of the meter case to create a pocket in the inside of the flap portion and use it to store a spare battery and the Lumigrid, the attachment used (or more accurately never used and usually lost) for measuring reflected light with the meter.
Hi, Chuck,
You've mentioned this many times already in the past and I think it is a great idea. I've wanted to do it myself since long ago but I'm still afraid of taking the knife in my hand..... What if I cut the lining in the wrong place?
I wonder if you could post a picture showing exactly how you did it.... and in particular WHERE you went at it with the dreaded knife! :-)
I'm not to much in to light meters i had Sekonik l-308S but it was to small for my hands,
I want to use it in studio for flash metering , and outside if i have to shot people to measure the light for the correct exposure
I don't thing i need a super complicated one , just something to give me the correct exposure
any suggestion what one to buy ??
358 is a fantastic meter, you will be pleased with it. I can't imagine anyone saying anything against it. I use the 558R myself. Sekonic makes great meters
+1 on the L-358 especially when combined with the PW inside transmitter module. It's an excellent meter and works well. I use rechargeable batteries, I think I got a pair of them with the charger for about $25. There is a pocket on the side of the case I got with mine and the spare battery fits snugly in there.
It's a good basic meter but I hate the multiple button press for using the more advanced functions (therefore never use them...) like multiple reading averaging etc. I wish they would redesign the user interface.
