Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

Which type of light meter would typically be used in professional settings?

1. Reflective

2. Incident

3. Flash

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

In professional photography, understanding and controlling light is essential to achieving the desired exposure and mood in images. The use of light meters is a critical component of this process. Reflective light meters measure the light that reflects off a subject and can easily be integrated into cameras, making them popular for quick assessments during shoots. They help photographers gauge the exposure based on the lighting conditions in the environment. Incident light meters, on the other hand, measure the light falling onto a subject rather than what is reflected. This type of meter is particularly useful in ensuring accurate exposure, especially in complex lighting situations where reflective readings might be misleading. By measuring the direct light, photographers can achieve more consistent results. Flash meters are specialized tools that measure the intensity of flash lighting in a scene, which is crucial when working with artificial lighting. They are especially beneficial for studio photography, where controlled light setups are common. Each of these meters serves specific purposes and can be employed in various situations, enhancing a photographer's ability to manage exposure and lighting effectively. Therefore, having access to and understanding how to use reflective, incident, and flash meters allows professionals to adapt to different lighting scenarios, confirming that all types of light meters can be utilized in professional settings.