Sekonic L-858D Speedmaster Light Meter

On a fast-paced commercial set, a cinematographer pulls out the Sekonic L-858D Speedmaster to nail exposure in seconds. This versatile light meter combines incident and 1-degree spot metering with advanced flash analysis and cine functions, making it an indispensable tool for photographers and filmmakers who demand precision. The 2.7-inch colour touchscreen simplifies complex measurements, while the wide ISO and shutter speed ranges handle any lighting scenario.

Key specifications

• Incident and reflected light measurement with retractable Lumisphere and 1-degree spot viewfinder
• Ambient, cord/cordless flash, HSS flash, and cine/video modes
• 2.7-inch colour touchscreen LCD for intuitive control
• Extreme ISO range: 3 to 13,107,200 (extended to 25600)
• Shutter speeds: 30 min to 1/64,000 sec (ambient), 30 min to 1/16,000 sec (flash)
• Aperture range f/0.5 to f/161.2; cine frame rates 1–1000 fps
• Flash duration measurement from t=0.1 to t=0.9 (1/400 to 1/55,500 sec)
• Exposure increments: full, 1/2, or 1/3 stop; filter compensation up to ±12 EV
• Memory for 9 readings and 10 camera profiles; USB 2.0 and optional Bluetooth
• Splash-proof design (JIS Class 4); powered by 2 AA batteries

Why choose it

The L-858D Speedmaster is trusted by professionals for its accuracy and versatility. Its touchscreen interface makes complex measurements easy, while the spot meter's 1-degree angle allows precise evaluation of distant subjects. The flash analysing function provides critical data for studio work, and the wide ISO range ensures reliable readings in extreme lighting conditions. With cine mode and frame rate settings, it is equally at home on video productions.

Ideal use cases

• Commercial photography and cinematography requiring precise exposure control
• Studio flash setups where flash duration and HSS analysis are essential
• Landscape and architectural photography using spot metering for distant subjects
• Film and video production needing cine frame rates and shutter angle calculations

Good to know

The L-858D features a splash-proof design (JIS Class 4) for reliability in challenging environments. It stores up to 9 readings and 10 camera profiles, and can be updated via USB. An optional Bluetooth transmitter enables wireless connectivity for seamless workflow integration.