Use a light meter for proper exposure.
Before any professional photographer or cinematographer begins their work, they measure the light falling into their scene or onto their subject. A handheld light meter is held up to the subject or pointed at the most important part of the scene. The meter uses this reading to recommend aperture, or lens opening, and shutter speed combinations that will give proper exposure in the final image. Design and operation varies among different light meters.
Instructions
1. Set the ISO on your meter. ISO refers to the light-sensitivy of either your film or camera sensor screen.
2. Point the meter at your subject, or at the part of your scene you wish to receive proper exposure. Hold the meter at a 90 degree angle in relation to your subject.
3. Interface with your meter if necessary. Manual models may require you to turn a dial to arrive at the recommended settings. Newer digital models tend to be fully automatic.
4. Read the recommended settings from the display chart or LCD screen and set your lens aperture and shutter speed accordingly.
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