A multi-function digital ambient flash meter for the working pro on location or in the studio. Features 1/10 step digital and 1/2 step analog readout, multi-directional dual pivot light receptor, memo...
Reviewed by longbow
, Professional
, from s.f . ca
Price Paid $0.00
Photography Experience 21+ years
, People
Summary The best meter I've ever owned. Meters everything with intuitive ease, from studio flash for people and products, to ambiant and combined lighting indoors and out. Multiple pops are a breeze, and memory on/off is simple as can be.
Strengths Everything already mentioned plus very long battery life, well lit display when needed, non-slip rubber grip, multi-directional light dome, lanyard cord attachment, if you're so inclined, and spot reading with an optional attachment.
Weaknesses None. Personally, don't need available light spot metering from the 718; all my cameras have BTL spot metering, which can sometimes be more accurate than hand held spot meters, as individual lens transmitance and filter factor losses are compensated for automatically, in most cases, in-camera.
Sadly, unit has been discontinued. But the good news is that this rugged unit may be the last light meter I'll ever need.
Summary An excellent light meter. If you need spot capability, you can buy the add on unit for a 5 degree spot meter. This is a great meter if you don't want to waste money on the other ones that have spot built in but would like to have the flexibility in the future to do spot.
Strengths Easy to use. Love the selector slider to switch from ambient to flash. You don't have to hit a button several times to cycle through the selections (like on the 508). Love the rubberized shell. Feels great and helps protect the plastic. Has great add-on stuff like an optional spot meter. Low cost.
Weaknesses The only weakness that I can think of is it's size. But when you compare it to other meters, it really is not a weakness. Waterproof would be nice.
Reviewed by David Shacklee
, Expert
, from Kokomo, IN USA
Price Paid $325.00
at B & H Photo and Video
Photography Experience 21+ years
, People
Summary The meter is great. Large enough to hold on to but stores easily. Extremely accurate and easy to use, some day I'll read the manual. I use it for portraits (for pay) and wild flowers (for fun)and it works great for both. Swiveling head comes in handy for both
Strengths Accurate, easy to use. great in studio and on location. Great for people and scenics
Weaknesses None percieved so far. I do wish it was water resistant though.
Similar Products Used Minolta, Polaris and Vivitar
Reviewed by Terry Wallace
, Professional
, from Melbourne, Florida USA
Photography Experience 11-20 years
, Other
Summary I have had this meter for years now and would buy another one if something happened to this one. I can shoot chrome dead on with this meter. In my shooting situations I could not function without a meter I can trust and this one is a relaible work horse. We shoot mostly on location and this meter has held up under hard conditions.
Terry Wallace Wallace Photography & Design http://www.terrywallace.com
Strengths EZ to use. It has the features I need. both cord & uncord flash plus multiple pops. The light is great for night shots and low light studio work.
Weaknesses None
Similar Products Used Sekonic L-328 F
Customer Service I had a Sekonic that died on an out of town shoot after years of use. I sent it to Sekonic; their repair department informed me it was unfixable and sent me a $75 credit toward any Sekonic meter. So I moved up to L-718
5 of 5
5 of 5
