Tokyo, Japan—Sekonic Corporation, a provider of photographic light meters, is spotlighting the latest addition to the L-308 series of light meters—the Flashmate L-308X-U. Sekonic markets it as “the world’s most versatile meter for photographers and cinematographers.”
The pocketable L-308X-U light-measuring tool retains the compact and intuitive design of its predecessors, the L-308S-U and L-308DC-U. However, it blends their features and functionality into an easier-to-use tool with new features. They include the long-awaited LCD backlight as well as aperture (F) priority measurement (photo mode). Also added was ISO 850, to help cinematographers work more easily with today’s professional cinema cameras.
“The versatility of today’s cameras has expanded the capabilities and creativity of today’s image makers at an amazing rate. With just one camera, today’s shooters have become multimedia image makers, blending both still and moving images seamlessly for unprecedented storytelling” said Kenji Sawai, executive officer of Sales & Marketing at Sekonic.
“Sekonic is the recognized leader in light-measuring tools for both the still and motion picture industries. We have taken our expertise and years of experience to create the perfect entry‐level light meter. It is ideal for the next generation of multi‐talented, value-conscious photographers and cinematographers.”
Sawai added that the light meter is consistently accurate to within 0.1 EV and has wide metering ranges for measuring ambient light, flash light and illuminance. At ISO 100, the L-308X-U can measure ambient light from 0 to 19.9 EV, flash light from f/1.0 to f/90.9 and illuminance, with an optional accessory, from 2.50 to 190,000 lux or 0.23 to 17,000 foot candles. Moreover, by sliding the Lumisphere to the side to reveal it 40° lens, the L-308X-U is able to measure reflected ambient or flash light.
Sekonic Flashmate L-308X-U Metering
To keep pace with the demands of modern image creators who move from assignment to assignment, the L-308X-U provides photographers and cinematographers with three metering modes/
Photo Mode
The device offers full exposure control for photographers on-location or in the studio. Its screen displays measurement data for flash and ambient light readings, as well as ambient EV measurement. Moreover, in addition to shutter priority mode, there is the new aperture priority mode. This mode offers photographers carefree measurements where depth of field is critical.
HD Cine Mode
This mode provides filmmakers and videographers using HD DSLR and mirrorless cameras with the ability to use shutter speeds and frame rates to get exposure readings accurate to within one-tenth of a stop in accuracy.
Cine Mode
In addition, cine mode gives cinematographers a compact solution for scouting locations or a quick go-to solution while on set. The 308X-U lets users select from a range of frame rates and shutter angles, while measuring to within one-tenth of a stop. Also, the addition of ISO 850 assists cinematographers. It gives them the option of taking measurements in the native ISOs of many of today’s professional cinema cameras.
In all modes, users can switch between measuring incident and reflected light by sliding the Lumisphere to the side. When using HD cine and cine modes, users can measure illuminance in either Lux or foot candles. However, the optional Lumidisc accessory, which is sold separately, must be used.
The Sekonic Flashmate L-308X-U has a suggested retail price of $219.
