Light meters are essential tools for photographers and filmmakers to accurately measure the amount of light in a given environment, ensuring properly exposed photos and videos. With the advent of smartphones, light meter apps have become increasingly popular for both professional and amateur photographers. There are a number of light meter apps available for Android and iOS devices, each offering different features and functionality. In this article, we will discuss the best light meter apps for Android and iOS, and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
We have compiled a list of 10 Best Light Meter Apps For Android & iOS for your consideration, which have undergone rigorous testing and evaluation by our team of experts.
Table of Contents
10 Best Light Meter Apps For Android & iOS
1. Lumu Light Meter
The Lumu light metering tool is a standalone app that can be used as a reflective light meter, or in combination with Lumu Power hardware for professional Flash and Color Temperature measurements. It is a digital incident color and light meter that works seamlessly with the Lumu app to deliver Color Temperature, Illuminance, Spot, Ambient, and Flash Exposure metering functionality on iPhones.
Lumu Power is designed to meet the needs of enthusiasts, professionals, and students who find existing light metering solutions too bulky, expensive, and complicated. It is a small, lightweight device that expands way beyond what most will ever need from such a tool. According to www.35mmc.com, “The Lumu Power is without any doubt the most full featured light meter I have ever owned.”
The Lumu Power app offers various modes that give users exact parameters, such as exposure time, f-number, ISO, EV, and lux. It also has a PHOTO MULTI mode that calculates average value or contrast between multiple measurements, a PHOTO PINHOLE mode that measures exposure time for custom pinhole camera settings, and a CINE/VIDEO mode that sets FPS, F-number, exposure time, and ISO, and gives the values for the ambiental light.
Other features of the Lumu Power app include FLASH EXPOSURE, which allows users to see the graph of flash duration, and measure its intensity, COLOR TEMPERATURE, which enables the reading of light Color temperature in Kelvin and Green/Magenta shift, and CHROMATICITY, which shows light colour in CIE1931 diagram and get X,Y,Z coordinates. The app also has an ILLUMINANCE mode that shows incident light level in lux / foot-candle values, and a NOTES feature that allows users to store all their measurements together with geo-location, custom notes, and photos in one place.
In addition, the Lumu Power app offers ND FILTERS, EXPOSURE COMPENSATION, and more.
2. Lux Light Meter Pro
Light Meter is a mobile application designed to measure and compare light intensity (lux) levels in a user’s environment. This functional tool is easy to operate and can be used at home or work. Using multiple device sensor inputs, Light Meter collects light intensity data with a simple click of a button.
The application is useful when using a manual or film camera, eliminating the need for expensive equipment that can cost hundreds of dollars. Light Meter is ideal for setting up greenhouse light settings, avoiding workplace lighting induced eye strain, or checking if a desk or craft station needs more light.
Light Meter offers several features, including real-time measurements, one-time measurement, average and max values, front and rear camera capabilities, and lux and foot candle measurements. It is essential to note that the Light Meter app is not a replacement for professional equipment and should only be used for private purposes.
If users have any questions or suggestions, they can contact the support team at support@lspapps.com. The terms of use for the app can be found at https://www.iubenda.com/terms-and-conditions/82717056, and the privacy policy can be viewed at https://www.iubenda.com/privacy-policy/82717056.
3. myLightMeter PRO
The LightMeter app is a tool designed by a photographer for photographers, with a focus on reliability and precision for both digital and analog photography. The app offers extended sensitivity as low as -2/-4EV in dark scenes, and features two different interface designs. Additionally, it offers both incident and reflected light metering modes, as well as the ability to save exposure data and connect to f/Tools.
The LightMeter app also includes independent calibration for the two metering modes, as well as independent selection of aperture, speed, ISO, and exposure compensation with 1/3 resolution. It supports a range of settings, from 4 minutes to 1/8000 sec. for speed, 1.0 to 512 for aperture, and 3 to 6400 for ISO. The app also offers automatic priority for aperture or speed, as well as automatic or locked ISO options.
Other features of the LightMeter app include point metering and zoomed camera view, a maximum aperture limit based on the selected lens, the ability to calculate the average of any number of measurements, and the ability to read the exposure data of any photo from the gallery. The app also includes a hyperfocal distance calculator for up to 5 memorized lenses, with support for both infrared light and aperture blocking. It also displays the exposure value EV on an analog scale or right up front, and includes two LED indicators for low light or low battery conditions.
The LightMeter app includes preset lens buttons on 3.5″ displays, which can be activated by tilting the device or tapping at the bottom. However, users should note that accurate incident light reading requires a diffuser attached to the front camera. Without the diffuser, the app can still be used for reflected reading taken with the front camera.
The LightMeter app is constantly reviewed and improved by its independent photographer/designer/developer, who welcomes feedback and suggestions.
4. Pocket Light Meter by Nuwaste studios
The “always in your pocket” light meter is a device that offers significant advantages for film photography. Specifically, it is designed to work with manual cameras and measures reflected light. In addition to these features, it also allows for reciprocity calculations.
This light meter is a valuable tool for any photographer working in film. Its compact size makes it easy to carry with you at all times, ensuring that you always have the ability to measure lighting conditions accurately. Additionally, it is particularly useful for those who work with manual cameras, providing a simple and effective way to measure reflected light.
One of the primary benefits of this light meter is its ability to perform reciprocity calculations. This feature is essential for those who work with longer exposures or low light conditions, as it allows for accurate exposure adjustments that can help to produce high-quality results. Whether you are a professional photographer or simply enjoy film photography as a hobby, this light meter is an indispensable tool to have in your kit.
5. Lux Meter (Light Meter)
The Lux Meter is a mobile application designed to measure illuminances, which are expressed in lux or foot-candles, using the light sensor of an Android device. The application offers various features that allow users to make accurate measurements of light levels.
One of the key features of the Lux Meter is the ability to calibrate the device using a multiplier. This feature ensures that the measurements made by the application are accurate and reliable. Additionally, the application provides users with information on the minimum, maximum, and average value of the illuminance measurements.
The Lux Meter also displays sensor data, which allows users to monitor the performance of the light sensor in real-time. This feature provides users with the ability to troubleshoot any issues with their device’s light sensor. Finally, the Lux Meter is completely free to use, making it accessible to anyone who requires a reliable light meter.
6. Light Meter – Free by WBPhoto
This app combines a reflected light meter with spot metering and an incident light meter in one package. It can be used with various types of cameras, including film SLRs, pinhole cameras, and cinematographic cameras. Moreover, it has been tested for accuracy against Gossen and Sekonic meters on most devices.
Apart from the two meters, the app also includes several other useful tools. These include a Color Temperature (White Balance) meter, a Reciprocity Calculator, an Exposure Convert, a Manual (Sunny Sixteen) calculator, a Depth of Field calculator, and an EXIF Reader. These tools are designed to help photographers achieve optimal exposure and color balance in their images.
One of the key features of this app is its ability to provide spot metering using the device’s camera, allowing photographers to measure exposure values for specific areas of a scene. Additionally, the incident light meter utilizes the device’s light sensor to measure the amount of light falling on the subject, which can be particularly useful in situations where reflected light may not accurately represent the scene’s true lighting conditions.
Overall, this app offers a comprehensive set of tools for photographers looking to achieve accurate exposure and color balance in their images. Its versatility and accuracy make it a valuable addition to any photographer’s toolkit.
7. Light Meter – EV for Photography
This app is designed to function as a portable light meter for digital and film photography using the device’s light sensor or camera. The app offers two modes and a wide range of functions.
The app has three modes, including Incident mode, which calculates the aperture or shutter speed based on light readings. Users can choose aperture priority to calculate shutter speed or vice versa. The EV Compensation mode provides users with the EV compensation value of a given aperture and shutter speed value. The app also has an Auto ISO mode, which calculates the nearest ISO value of a given aperture and shutter speed combination.
In addition to the modes, the app has several features, including settings, ND Filter up to ND5.0, calibration slider up to +-2 EV or input of an exact calibration value, camera sensor that offers spot metering, matrix metering, and zoom. The app also has Live mode for premium users or try for three days and an option to adjust the interface, basic mode, high-contrast, and expanded mode.
However, the app has some hardware limitations to take note of. Live mode using the camera will not work if the camera’s required features are not supported or limited. The current phone sensors have a slow refresh rate that limits the light meter from capturing light triggered from speed lights or photography strobes. The sensitivity of the light meter to low light conditions and camera support may vary from individual phone model and manufacturer.
Regarding permissions, the app needs access to the camera for camera view measurements, while access to the internet is for advertisement display only.
8. Light Meter by Blackcurrant Studioz
Lux Meter is a light metering app available for Android devices. It is designed to measure illuminances in lux or foot-candles using the device’s light sensor. The app allows users to calibrate their device with the multiplier and displays minimum, maximum, and average values, as well as sensor data. Lux Meter is free to download, but additional features and improvements are only available in the paid version.
The app’s reflected light metering feature only works with devices capable of saving exif data, while the incident light metering feature should work on any device. However, it may not be sufficient for professional photographers. The app’s precision and accuracy are limited by the device itself, and the creator recommends using the reflected light option for better results.
Lux Meter offers several features, including incident and reflected light metering, spot measurement if the camera has zoom, and support for all screen resolutions. The app is designed for professional use, and it measures illumination levels in lux.
Lux Meter provides various features such as direct reading in lux, automatic range change, support for neutral filters, custom sensor calibration, sensor linearity correction, and HD graphics. The app is free to use, but it requires devices with a light sensor for accurate and instant light intensity reading. For devices without a light sensor, custom calibration is required for correct reading.
The app also provides recommended light intensity ranges for different activities and environments, helping users protect their eyesight. While the app is designed for old school photographers or advanced amateurs shooting analog photography, it can be useful for anyone in need of a light metering app. The first version of the app is always free, but additional features and improvements are only available in the paid version.
9. Lux Light Meter Free
The light measurement app is designed to provide high accuracy in measuring brightness levels in both lux and foot-candle units. The app can measure minimum, average, and maximum brightness, and enables calibration of measurements with easy controls. Additionally, users can store measurements in memory with titles, dates, and times for future reference, and export and share measurement lists. The app also provides an understanding of the characteristics of the hardware sensor of the user’s device, and uses smart algorithms.
This app has practical uses in various contexts. Construction workers can compare light levels of different globes, biologists can use it for photosynthesis practicals, and photographers can measure light on a photo scene and set exposure. The app can also be used to diagnose light deficiencies in gardens, measure acceptable illumination levels in workspaces, and test headlights of cars or bicycles. Furthermore, it is useful for comparing indoor and outdoor light levels and installing new lighting.
The app is particularly helpful for indoor gardening, as it enables users to set up the right lighting level for each of their plants. It is also suitable for testing flashlights and other equipment, setting up projector screens, and measuring light for hydroponic plants. The app can further help select the right LED replacements and compare workplace illumination.
The app provides valuable insights for users in making informed decisions about light bulbs to install in their homes and relighting their kitchens, offices, and rooms. It can also be used to read the brightness of the sky, walls, or bright objects and analyze light levels of indoor environments. In addition, it is a useful tool for photographers to measure light and set exposure.
The app collects and aggregates statistics using analytics to improve the app and services, but none of the data collected can be used to identify users. The creators respect users’ privacy and can be contacted for support at support@doggoapps.com.
10. LightMeter by David Quiles
The LightMeter app is designed for old school photographers or advanced amateurs who shoot analog photography. The app is available at a low price and supports hundreds of hours of work. The reflected light meter only works with devices that can save the exposure to exif. In contrast, the incident light meter generally works on any device. However, it is important to note that the precision and quality of this and all phone light meters are limited by the device itself. For better precision, it is recommended to use the reflected light option.
The LightMeter app has several features, including an ISO range from 3 to 6400, incident and reflected light metering, low light alert, camera muting (not available in all countries), exif and sensor info display, calibration, vibration on measure/hold, incident light reading hold, alternative ISO selector, state and ISO recall on resume, and spot measure if the camera has zoom. The app supports all screens, including extra high resolution.
It is essential to highlight that the LightMeter app is limited by the device itself in terms of precision and quality. The reflected light option provides better precision, but only a few devices are compatible with it. The app’s low price supports hundreds of hours of work, and the developer recommends using the reflected light option for better precision. Users may email the developer at davidquiles@me.com for assistance in both Spanish and English.
Overall, the LightMeter app is an affordable option for old school photographers and advanced amateur photographers who shoot analog photography. The app offers several features, although users should be aware of the limitations of phone light meters, such as precision and quality, which are dependent on the device.