Can a Sekonic L-478DR target a specific flash-to-ambient ratio?
Asked 6/24/2015
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I’m using a Sekonic L-478DR with manual flashes and PocketWizard radio triggers (not TTL). When I meter a flash exposure, the meter shows the flash/ambient ratio on screen. Can I set a desired ratio—such as 30% flash contribution—and have the meter calculate the needed settings? If not, what’s the practical way to reach a specific flash-to-ambient balance with this meter?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
11y ago
2 Answers
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That's a very nice feature, in that if you find a particular mix of fill flash that you think looks natural, you can recreate it any time. But you'll have to use trial and error to get the ratio you're looking for, the meter won't let you set it as a target. If the ratio is higher than you want, you could lower the shutter speed a few stops to let in more ambient. Or you could lower the flash output.
Originally by user4191. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4191
11y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
No. On the Sekonic L-478DR, the flash/ambient ratio display is a readout, not a target you can dial in for the meter to solve automatically.
To reach a desired mix such as about 30% flash, you’ll need to meter and adjust by trial and error:
- If flash contribution is too high, reduce flash power.
- Or increase ambient contribution by using a slower shutter speed.
- Re-meter after each change until the displayed ratio matches the look you want.
In practice, shutter speed mainly affects ambient exposure (as long as you stay at or below sync speed), while flash power changes the flash portion. That makes those two controls the easiest way to fine-tune the balance.
Once you find a ratio that looks natural or matches your style, you can note it and recreate it consistently later using the meter’s ratio display as a reference.
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