In measuring light in cinematography, I understand that an incident light reading measures the amount of light *hitting* the subject, while a reflective light reading measures the amount of light bouncing *off* a subject.
What happens then if you get two *different* readings, for example, an incident reading of f2 and a reflective light reading of f4?
Would common sense dictate that you would average both readings, and then set the aperture ring to that number? In other words, 2 + 4 = 6 divided by 2 = f3 as your correct setting for the camera.
Well, light reading numbers don't go 1, 2, 3, but more like 1, 1.4, 2, 2.8, 4, 5.6, 8, 11, etc. So I think in your example you'd have to set the f-stop to 2.8.
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you both are right,
2.8 would be the correct setting in that situation if you wanted to be able to see the entire subject. However if you are looking to see more shadow and less light set it lower. If you're looking for low contrast and realisim the bounced light is better to use because that's how the eye sees. I'm no master cinematographer, but that's the way that I've always done it and it always works for me
- D -
Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded. - 2 Chronicles 15:7
"Accept that some days you are the pigeon and some days you are the statue" - David Brent
Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded. - 2 Chronicles 15:7
"Accept that some days you are the pigeon and some days you are the statue" - David Brent
Sorry you are all wrong, i've posted an explanation, that I hope will help.
Happy hunting.
