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Color Meter
Lighting · Terms

Color Meter

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minolta color meter colorimetry incident meter

Instrument that measures Color Temperature and green-magenta shift, displaying Kelvin value and required correction filter adjustments.

Definition

The Color Meter is a measuring instrument for determining the color temperature and color index of light sources on set. The instrument measures the spectral composition of the light and outputs values in Kelvin as well as magenta/green deviations.

Practical Application

The measuring device is used in the following areas:

  • Color Correction: Adjusting color temperatures between different light sources
  • Light Control: Precise control of light intensity and quality
  • Effect Design: Creating specific visual atmospheres
  • Efficiency Improvement: Reducing post-production effort through precise on-set control

Technical Details

Important technical features include:

  • Compatibility with standard film production equipment
  • Various versions and strengths for different requirements
  • Influence on light transmission and light absorption
  • Integration into professional workflows

Practical Tips

  • Always consider the specific requirements of the current scene
  • Test different combinations for optimal results
  • Use a light meter for accurate quantification of light changes
  • Observe storage conditions to ensure long-term quality

Professional Standards

In professional film and television production, standardized lighting tools are essential for:

  • Consistent image quality over multiple shooting days
  • Quick adjustments without extensive rebuilding
  • Cost-effective production
  • Meeting the highest quality standards
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