Using an External Light Meter
Monday, May 24, 2010 at 9:57PM | Tom S. 
The question of using an external light meter had come up a couple of times. So I submitted the question to a friend who is a full time professional photographer down in North Carolina, Chris Smith. He has been very busy but took the time to reply to us. I though you might like to read his response.
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........................ I still have my old light meter. But truly it's not a necessary tool anymore with the use of digital cameras. Historgrams and LCD screens have taken it's place. However, I could definitely see someone using one as a flash meter. So if they photog was setting up studio lights for the "formals" after the ceremony, a light meter could be used as a "flash meter" to dial in the studio lights. That's still kind of an "old-school" way of doing things. But hey, if it works for someone who's used to doing it that way, great!
Personally, I stopped bringing studio lights a long time ago in lieu of the amazing power and technology built into small portable speedlights. I use SB-800 flashes (a-la strobist style) with umbrellas and RadioPoppers for my "formals". They turn out beautiful light, are wireless, and much smaller and more portable the big-ol' studio strobes! Other than as a flash meter, I do have one old friend (he's like 62 now), who went to digital, and has now swung back full circle and only shoots film. He's created a small nitch for himself...not a lot of clients looking for that...but those who are go with him! He still uses a light meter to take incident readings since he doesn't have an LCD and histogram to rely on.
So in summation, there really isn't a viable "real-world" use for one in the fast-moving pace of a wedding day. But if the photographer was working with manual studio strobes or shooting film or plain just liked doing things the "way he'd always done it", then each to their own, right. Proof is in the pudding...how'd their wedding photos turn out?
Chris Smith
Chris & Cami Photography
www.chrisandcami.com
843-324-8900
Light Meter in Equipment