When working with multiple lights, I find it easier working with one light at a time. Start with the main light and take a reading with a light meter. Once you enter these settings on your camera, turn the main light off and proceed to the next light—taking a meter reading to see if it is brighter or darker than the exposure in the camera. Adjust its power for the effect you want. Do this for each light. Once you have all the lights in place, turn them on and take a photograph to see how the extra lights affect the exposure.
Want to learn more? Check out this article, “How to create an action portrait with venetian blinds”
For whatever reason, it seems that there is less information on how to use a light meter than any other photographic technique or equipment. I realize there is debate about whether they are even still needed, and I’m not trying to foray in that debate. Anyone know of any good sources for learning to use a light meter?
Hey Tim – We’re working on some more light meter articles for later this month and in September, so definitely look out for those! Here’s a few articles on light meter usage that we’ve already published: https://photofocus.com/?s=light+meter
Tim, just for you (well and everyone else :) )the team is working on light meter tutorials. I’m glad you brought that up.