What does the decimal number next to the f-stop on a Sekonic L-308X mean?
Asked 8/9/2019
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On my Sekonic L-308X light meter, there is a small number shown next to the aperture reading. The manual says it is a 0.1-step display, but I’m not sure how to interpret it. What does that number represent, and how should it be used when setting exposure?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
6y ago
2 Answers
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I don't have this particular model (I have an L-308S-U), but after a bit of experimentation with a flashlight...
That means that the currently recommended f-stop is f/4 plus 2/10 of a stop - towards 5.6, meaning the light is slightly brighter than what would cause it to recommend exactly f/4.
You would use that number to determine when to move up to the next stop, especially if your camera supports 1/3 or 1/2 stops. If it doesn't, a measurement of 4.0/9 might indicate you would be better choosing f/5.6 instead of f/4.
Originally by user68706. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user68706
6y ago
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Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
It indicates a fractional part of the recommended f-stop in tenths of a stop.
For example, if the meter shows f/4 with a small “2”, that means about f/4 + 0.2 stop, toward f/5.6. In other words, the measured light is a little brighter than an exact f/4 reading.
This is mainly useful for fine exposure adjustments, especially if your camera lets you set exposure in 1/3-stop or 1/2-stop increments. It helps you decide whether to stay at the displayed full stop or move to the next setting.
Example:
- f/4 + 0.1 or 0.2: usually stay near f/4
- f/4 + 0.5 or more: you may prefer the next smaller aperture / next exposure step, depending on your camera’s increment options
In practice, 1/10-stop display is finer than most cameras can set directly, so treat it as guidance rather than something you must match exactly.
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