What is Sample Light?

What is Sample Light

As a photographer, you may have heard the term “sample light” thrown around in conversation or in online forums. But what exactly is sample light and why is it important in photography?

Sample light, also known as incident light, is the light that is measured on the subject being photographed. This is in contrast to reflective light, which is the light that is measured off the subject and onto a light meter.

Why is this distinction important? Well, reflective light can be affected by the color and texture of the subject, resulting in inaccurate readings on the light meter. This can lead to poorly lit photos with incorrect exposures.

On the other hand, sample light is not affected by the subject and provides a more accurate reading on the light meter. This allows photographers to properly expose their photos and capture the true colors and details of the subject.

In order to measure sample light, photographers use an incident light meter. This is a handheld device that is placed on the same plane as the subject and pointed towards the light source. The light meter then measures the amount of light falling onto the subject and provides a reading for the photographer to adjust their camera settings accordingly.

Some photographers may prefer to use reflective light meters, which measure the amount of light bouncing off the subject onto the light meter. However, using an incident light meter allows for more precise and accurate measurements, resulting in better lit photos.

In conclusion, sample light, or incident light, is an important concept in photography as it provides accurate readings for proper exposure. Using an incident light meter allows photographers to capture the true colors and details of their subjects. Understanding and utilizing sample light can greatly improve the quality of your photos.