A Variable Light Source For Camera Meter Testing

Disclaimer

I will not be held responsible for any damage that results from you looking at or following these notes. If you don't feel comfortable goofing around with this stuff or the possibility that you could damage something on your camera, just don't do it.

Build your own variable light source

I spent quite of bit of time trying to calibrate my light meters using available light sources such as:
  1. northern clear blue sky
  2. green grass
  3. table lamp - through lampshade
The major problem with these light sources is that they are not variable in a controlled fashion nor readily repeatable.
Finally I came to my senses and built my own variable light source. It cost me less than 25 dollars for the materials I did not happen to have stashed away in various junk boxes. Here is a list of major components, along with some notes. Please beware of the danger of fire from any enclosed heat source such as a light bulb and take appropriate precautions.




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