Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Dodge and Burn • Depth of Field • Capture One

Light Meter

Term from Photography industry explained for recruiters

A light meter is an essential tool photographers use to measure the amount of light in a scene to ensure proper exposure in photos. It's like having a "light calculator" that helps photographers determine the right camera settings. While modern cameras have built-in light meters, professional photographers often prefer separate handheld devices for more precise measurements, especially in studio settings or for specialized photography like architecture or film photography. When you see this term in a resume, it usually indicates that the candidate has technical expertise in professional photography and understanding of proper exposure techniques.

Examples in Resumes

Expertly used Light Meter and Light Meters for precise exposure in studio portrait sessions

Trained junior photographers in proper Light Meter techniques for architectural photography

Mastered both incident and reflective Light Meter readings for complex lighting situations

Typical job title: "Photographers"

Also try searching for:

Professional Photographer Studio Photographer Commercial Photographer Technical Photographer Photography Assistant Photo Studio Manager

Where to Find Photographers

Photography Forums

Professional Organizations

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine when to use incident versus reflected light meter readings?

Expected Answer: An experienced photographer should explain that incident readings measure light falling on the subject and are best for portraits and controlled lighting, while reflected readings measure light bouncing off the subject and are better for landscapes or distant subjects.

Q: How do you handle complex lighting situations with multiple light sources?

Expected Answer: They should discuss measuring each light source separately, understanding lighting ratios, and how to balance ambient light with artificial lighting for the desired effect.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between using a handheld light meter versus your camera's built-in meter?

Expected Answer: Should explain that handheld meters offer more precise readings, can measure flash output, and provide incident light readings, while camera meters only measure reflected light.

Q: How do you use a light meter to achieve proper exposure in outdoor portraits?

Expected Answer: Should discuss taking readings of both subject and background, understanding how to handle backlighting, and maintaining proper exposure for skin tones.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic functions of a light meter?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that a light meter measures light intensity and helps determine proper camera settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO) for correct exposure.

Q: How do you take a basic incident light reading?

Expected Answer: Should describe pointing the meter's white dome toward the camera from the subject's position and explain how to interpret the readings for camera settings.