a bit off topic-- light meters???

brnijeff wrote on 1/14/2003, 12:47 PM

Hello,
I use a dv camcorder to record family events. I notice that the picture quality gets pretty grainy below a certain ambient light level. I notice that professional still photographers always hold a little device up in front of their subject during the shoot setup--

Is that some kind of light meter? Could this be used for video as well? Is there a rule of thumb level to shoot for? How much are those doodads?
Thanks,
Jeff

Comments

Summersond wrote on 1/14/2003, 12:51 PM

They are light meters. You shouldnt need them if you can keep your ambient light up high enough. If it gets too low, use an external light source to supplement the camera. The light changes too quickly to have need for a light meter in a video environment and you dont want to be running around all night checking light levels.

dave