Light Meter Sekonic L-398 A Studio Deluxe III

The Sekonic L-398A Studio Deluxe III is a compact analog light meter designed for accurate ambient and flash exposure measurement without batteries. With a durable build and an easy-to-read analog display, it provides incident and reflected readings suitable for still photography and cinematography. The meter includes a swivel head with a lock needle indicator, memory pointer, and direct-reading capability with optional slides; accessories such as a Lumidisc, Lumisphere and Lumigrid are supplied.

Advantages

The amorphous photocell eliminates the need for batteries or external power while delivering reliable ambient light readings. The swivel head with lock needle makes "set walking" and quick reference easy, and the memory pointer lets you compare or recall a previous exposure. A wide ISO range and shutter/aperture coverage support diverse lighting and lens situations, and the meter ships with practical accessories and a protective case.

Suitable for

• Still photography (studio and location)
• Cinematography and motion-picture lighting setups
• Use as a primary or backup light meter for exposure control
• Quick ambient light checks when batteries are not available

Key specifications

• Brand: Sekonic; Model: L-398A Studio Deluxe III (MPN 400097, EAN 4962294011116)
• Measurement types: Incident and reflected light
• Photocell: Amorphous (battery-free)
• ISO range: 6 to 12,000 in 1/3-step increments
• Shutter speed range: 60 s to 1/8000 s
• Aperture range: f/0.7 to f/128
• Frame rates: 8 fps to 128 fps
• EV ranges (ISO 100): Incident EV 4 to EV 17; Reflected EV 9 to EV 17
• Dimensions (approx.): 58 mm × 112 mm × 34 mm
• Includes case, neck strap, Lumidisc, Lumisphere, Lumigrid, High Slide
• Warranty: 1 year (option to extend to 3 years in USA after registration)

How to use

For incident readings, attach the Lumisphere or use the Lumidisc over the photocell and point the meter toward the camera from the subject position; read the exposure directly from the analog scale or use optional direct reading slides. For reflected readings, point the meter at the subject and take a reading from the front of the meter. Use the swivel head and lock needle to capture and hold readings or to "set walk" between measurements. Adjust ISO, aperture or shutter speed according to the indicated exposure value, and use the memory pointer to compare or hold a previous reading.

Recommendations

The Sekonic L-398A is best used as a reliable, battery-free meter for routine ambient light measurements and as a compact backup for flash readings. Keep the supplied Lumisphere and Lumidisc handy for accurate incident measurements, and register the product if you need the extended warranty (USA only).