Sekonic DATA TRANSFER User Manual

Software Guide

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IMPORTANT NOTICE

Thank you very much for purchasing this product. Before using the software, please carefully read the following terms and conditions. By opening this CD-ROM package, your acceptance is implied of all terms and conditions of the software license agreement.

This Agreement is concluded between you (hereinafter, “USER”) and Sekonic Corporation (hereinafter, “SEKONIC”), with provisions as follows concerning the use of the software provided together with this Agreement.

Concerning the use of software provided by parties other than SEKONIC under software license agreements other than this Agreement, the provisions of such other agreements shall take precedence over the provisions hereunder.

1. Definitions (1) The CD-ROM shall mean the CD-ROM provided to USER by SEKONIC. (2) The Software shall mean the software recorded on the CD-ROM provided to USER by SEKONIC. (3) The Documentation shall mean, collectively, the user guide to the software provided to USER by SEKONIC, and other documentation related to the Software. (4) The Product shall mean, collectively, the light meter unit and the accessories contained in the same package.

2. Purpose This Agreement establishes the terms and conditions of use for the Software provided to USER by SEKONIC. (1) USER may install and use the Software on one (1) personal computer. (2) USER is licensed to make one (1) copy of the Software as a back-up.

3. Prohibitions (1) USER may not reproduce the Software and/or the Documentation. (2) USER may not assign, loan, convey, or otherwise transfer the Software, the CD-ROM, and the Documentation, nor sub-license rights licensed to USER by SEKONIC, to third parties. (3) USER may not alter, amend, or adapt the Software and the Documentation, nor erase markings attached thereto concerning copyrights and other property rights. (4) USER may not, and may not cause a third party to, modify, reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the Software. SEKONIC provides no warranty for any

Notice to users: Please read this information carefully before use.

SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT

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damage to the Software from modifications made by USER.

4. Copyrights and intellectual property rights Title to copyrights and other intellectual property rights concerning the Software and the Documentation is owned by SEKONIC or by the owner or owners stated on the Software and the Documentation.

5. Warranties and exemptions (1) SEKONIC will replace the Software free of charge in case physical defects of the CD-ROM such as read error are discovered within 90 days of purchase by USER. (2) SEKONIC makes no warranties with respect to the Product concerning infringement, or otherwise, on intellectual property rights of third parties, and accepts no responsibility whatsoever for damage and concomitant claims for indemnification due to infringement on copyrights and other intellectual property rights of third parties arising from the use of the Product.

6. Limitation of liability Except for the cases expressly provided for in Section 5. “Warranties and exemptions,” in no event will SEKONIC be liable in any form for damage caused by the use or failure to function of the Product (including but not limited to lost profit, and incidental, special, and consequential damage).

7. Compliance with Laws Related to Export Restrictions USER may not take the Software out of their country or engage in other activities in violation of laws related to export restrictions in their country.

8. Termination of Agreement This Agreement takes effect at the time when USER opens the Product. In any of the following events, SEKONIC shall be able to terminate this Agreement without advance notice, and end USER’S use of the Product. (1) In case USER has breached provisions and conditions of this Agreement. (2) In case USER has disposed of the Software and the copy thereof.

9. Term This Agreement takes effect on the day USER initiates use of the Software, and remains in force and effect until termination of this Agreement in accordance with Section 8. “Termination of Agreement” or until USER terminates use of the Software.

10. Measures at termination USER shall promptly perform the following in case of termination of this Agreement or end of use of the Software.

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(1) USER at USER’S responsibility shall delete or discard the Software (including the copy thereof), the CD-ROM, and the Documentation. (2) SEKONIC will not be held liable in any way if USER uses the Product after termination of this Agreement.

11. Court of jurisdiction For any dispute arising in connection with this Agreement, the sole court of jurisdiction shall be the district court having jurisdiction at the location of the head office of SEKONIC.

This documentation has been prepared assuming basic knowledge of personal computers (hereinafter, “PC”) and the use of Windows and Macintosh operating systems. Concerning PC use and the use of Windows and Macintosh operating systems, please refer to the accompanying respective manuals. Please note that on-screen displays and menus may differ from those shown in this documentation. Explanations provided in this documentation use mostly Windows screens.

 Terminology and trademarks

 Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the USA and/or

other jurisdictions. The official name of Windows is "Microsoft® Windows® Operating System."

 Macintosh and MacOS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. registered in the

USA and/or other jurisdictions.

 Adobe Reader is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems Inc.  Other company names and product names are trade marks or registered

trademarks in Japan and/or other jurisdictions.

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WARNING!

NOTE!

Reference

Caution!

To ensure safe operation, read this first!

Be sure to read these Safety Precautions before using the Product and make sure you operate the Product correctly.

This symbol indicates the risk of death or personal injury for the operator of the Product whenever information marked with this symbol is disregarded while using the Product.

This symbol indicates the risk of light to moderate personal injury for the operator of the Product or material damage whenever information marked with this symbol is disregarded while using the Product.

This symbol indicates important information or a limitation. Be sure to read information marked with this symbol to avoid operational errors.

This symbol indicates reference information for operations, information about related functions, etc. Reading of such information is highly recommended.

Never play the bundled CD-ROM on a music CD player. Doing so creates the risk of hearing damages, or damage to your speakers, headphones, or other equipment.

Caution!

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Table of contents

IMPORTANT NOTICE............................................................1

To ensure safe operation, read this first!................................4

1. What is Data Transfer Software?.......................................7

2. Before Using Data Transfer Software................................8

(1) Setup ................................................................................................... 8

(2) Installing Data Transfer Software on a Windows Computer........... 8

a) Computer System Requirements...........................................................................8

b) To install the software on a Windows computer...................................................9

c) To uninstall the software from a Windows computer.........................................15

(3) Installing Data Transfer Software on Mac OS................................17

a) Computer System Requirements.........................................................................17

b) To install the software on a Macintosh.................................................................18

c) To uninstall the software from a Macintosh computer.......................................21

3. Basic Operation .................................................................22

(1) To connect the light meter to your computer..................................22

(2) To disconnect the light meter from your computer.........................24

(3) Using Data Transfer Software......................................................... 25

a) Starting Up Data Transfer Software.....................................................................25

b) Creating New Data.................................................................................................25

c) Entering Names......................................................................................................26

d) Selecting an Input Item ..........................................................................................27

e) Data Input 1 (Patch Input) .....................................................................................27

f) Data Input 2 (Two Point Input) ...............................................................................31

g) Data Input 3 (Direct Input) .....................................................................................34

h) Accessing Stored Data..........................................................................................36

1) To transfer the data from the light meter............................................................36

2) To open data stored on your computer .............................................................36

i) Saving the Data........................................................................................................37

j) Printing the Data.......................................................................................................37

４. Camera Exposure Profiling.............................................39

(1) Testing for Exposure Profiling.......................................................... 39

a) Introduction..............................................................................................................39

1) Settings..................................................................................................................39

2) Procedure..............................................................................................................41

b) Preparing Equipment.............................................................................................42

c) Settings ....................................................................................................................43

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1) “Exposure Profile Target” ....................................................................................43

2) Lighting...................................................................................................................44

3) Setting Up the Camera ........................................................................................46

4) Shooting.................................................................................................................47

d) Evaluating Test Exposures ...................................................................................50

1) Preparing the Software........................................................................................50

2) Obtaining the Compensation..............................................................................51

3) Obtaining the Clipping Point and Dynamic Range...........................................54

5. Appendix.............................................................................56

(1) Exposure...........................................................................................56

a) Standard Exposure Values...................................................................................56

b) Proper Exposure Value .........................................................................................56

(2)Sensitometry......................................................................................57

a) Sensitivity Characteristic Curve............................................................................57

b) Middle-tone..............................................................................................................59

c) Dynamic Range......................................................................................................60

d) Clipping Point..........................................................................................................60

６. Troubleshooting ...............................................................61

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1. What is Data Transfer Software?

"Data Transfer Software" is a software program that calculates entered exposure profiled data (from film or digital camera testing), stores the data, and transfers the data to and from the light meter. You can use Data Transfer Software to enter exposure profile data from different digital cameras, types of film, metering modes (reflected or Incident) and different types of lighting (flash or ambient). This section provides a brief explanation of Data Transfer Software functions.

 Data Calculation (applied for still only *1)

Measured meter value along with exposure profile data acquired from testing

(using optional Sekonic Exposure Profile Target) is used to calculate, Compensation value, Dynamic range and Clipping point data. This data is directly transferred into the light meter.

*1 - - -Data Transfer Software and Software Guide (Testing procedure, Image analyzing and

Data entry) are preliminary for still photography use.

 Data Transfer (applied for still and cine/video *2)

After connecting the light meter to your computer and starting up Data Transfer

Software, you can enter and store the meter compensation value, clipping point,

and dynamic range via USB to and from the light meter.

*2 - - - For more information, please visit us at www.sekonic.co.jp or www.sekonic.com

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2. Before Using Data Transfer Software

(1) Setup

In order to use Data Transfer Software, you first need to install the application and USB driver from the bundled CD-ROM. The following are the procedures for installation.

(2) Installing Data Transfer Software on a Windows Computer

a) Computer System Requirements

*1 Professional Edition, SP4 or greater. Operation under Windows

2000 Server not guaranteed. *2 Home Edition or Professional Edition, SP1 or later. *3  The operating system must be the one preinstalled on the

computer.

 Proper operation may not be possible on certain computer

models and configurations.

 Proper operation is not guaranteed on a computer running an

upgraded operating system, an add-on USB interface, a homemade computer, a shop-made computer, or on an emulator environment (such as Virtual PC).

 Proper operation is not guaranteed over connection through a

USB hub.

 A drive capable of reading a CD-ROM is required to install the

software.

Supported Operating Systems

Windows 2000 *1 Windows XP *2

Computer

Personal computer equipped with USB interface as standard *3

CPU Pentium III or higher with 1GHz or higher

RAM

At least 256MB (At least 512MB recommended.)

Hard Disk Free Space

At least 100MB

Display

Screen Resolution: At least 1024 x 768 Display Colors: At least 16-bit

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b) To install the software on a Windows computer

1) Turn on your computer and start up Windows.

2) The USB driver installer should

start up automatically when you install the Data Transfer Software CD-ROM into your computer's CD-ROM drive. When the window shown to the right appears, select the language which you want to install.

 NOTE!

If you select a language that is different from the language of the computer's operating system, Data Transfer Software will be installed, but you may experience garbled displayed characters. If you accidentally install the wrong language, uninstall the software and then re-install the correct language. For information about uninstalling the software, see "c) To uninstall the software from a Windows computer". (Page 15)

3) Click the [Install] button.

4) Click the [Continue Anyway]

button. The same window will appear again, so click the [Continue Anyway] button one more time.

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5) This completes installation of the file.

Click the [OK] button.

6) Next install Data Transfer

Software. To proceed with Data Transfer Software installation, click the [Next] button.

7) If you agree with the terms of the

License Agreement, select “I Agree” and click “Next”. You cannot proceed if you select “I Do Not Agree”.

 Reference

If installation does not start up automatically, navigate to the CD-ROM and then double-click "AutoRun".

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8) Confirm that you are installing

the software in the desired folder, and then click the [Next] button.

If you want to change to a

different folder, click the [Browse] button and then select the folder you want.

9) You are now ready to install the

Data Transfer Software. To continue, click the [Next] button.

10) This completes installation of

the Data Transfer Software. Click the [Close] button.

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11) There should now be shortcut icons

for the Data Transfer Software application and the software guide on your Windows desktop.

 NOTE!

Depending on your operating system, your computer may prompt you to restart after installing the software. If it prompts you to restart, restart your computer immediately.

12) If this is the first time you are connecting the light meter to your computer,

advance to step 13.

Proceed to install the hardware necessary to recognize the light meter. For information about connecting the light meter to your computer, see "3. Basic Operation". (Page 22)

13) When you connect the light

meter via USB to your computer, the window shown to the right will appear. Click the [Next] button.

14) To continue with the installation,

click the [Continue Anyway] button.

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15) Installation is now complete.

Click the [Finish] button.

16) Next, install the serial port setup

driver. When the window shown to the right appears, click the [Next] button.

17) Click the [Continue Anyway]

button.

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18) Installation is now complete.

Click the [Finish] button.

 NOTE!

Whenever connecting or disconnecting the USB cable, be sure to do so in the proper sequence. Disconnecting the USB cable while data is transferred can cause data to be lost or even circuit damages.

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c) To uninstall the software from a Windows computer

 NOTE!

Perform the following procedure only if you no longer want Data Transfer Software installed on your computer.

1) Quit all applications that are currently running on your computer.

2) From "My Computer," open Control

Panel and then double-click "Add/Remove Programs".

3) Select "Data Transfer Software"

and then click [Remove].

4) On the confirmation dialog box

that appears, click [Yes].

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5) Select "SEKONIC Light meter

L-758Series Port" and then click [Change/Remove].

6) On the confirmation dialog box

that appears, click [Yes]. This will start the uninstall operation automatically.

7) This indicates that uninstall was

successful. Click the [OK] button.

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(3) Installing Data Transfer Software on Mac OS

a) Computer System Requirements

*1 If you are using a Macintosh computer, be sure to use the Macintosh

version of the software. Operation of the Windows version is not guaranteed when running under Virtual PC for the Mac and other emulator software.

*2 The Macintosh version is designed to run on a PowerPC only. Operation

under a 68k or Intel CPU is not supported. *3  The operating system must be the one preinstalled on your Macintosh.  Proper operation may not be possible on certain Macintosh models and

configurations.

 Proper operation is not guaranteed on a Macintosh running an upgraded operating system or an add-on USB interface.

 Proper operation is not guaranteed when using via a USB hub.  A drive capable of reading a CD-ROM is required to install the software.

Supported Operating Systems

MacOS X 10.2 or greater *1

Computer

Macintosh computer *2 equipped with USB interface as standard *3

CPU PowerPC G3, G4, G5 *2

RAM

At least 256MB (At least 512MB recommended.)

Hard Disk Free Space

At least 100MB

Display

Screen Resolution: At least 1024 x 768 Display Colors: At least 16-bit

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b) To install the software on a Macintosh

1) Turn on your Macintosh and start up MacOS X.

2) Set the bundled CD-ROM into the CD-ROM drive of your Macintosh.

3) To continue with the installation, double-click "Data Transfer Software. pkg".

4) To continue with the installation, click the [Continue] button.

5) The window shown to the right will appear next. Select the language and then click the [Continue] button. You can also print out the end user license agreement and keep it on hand for later reference.

 NOTE!

If you select a language that is different from the language of the computer's operating system, Data Transfer Software will be installed, but you may experience garbled displayed characters. If you accidentally install the wrong language version, uninstall the Data Transfer Software and then re-install with the correct language. For information about uninstalling the software, see "c) To uninstall the software from a Macintosh computer". (Page 21)

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6) After reading the contents of the end user license agreement, click [Agree] if you agree to be bound by its terms and conditions.

7) Confirm the installation folder for the Data Transfer Software is correct, and then click the [Continue] button. If you want to change to a different folder, click the [Select] button and then select the folder you want.

8) You are now ready to install the application. To continue, click the [Upgrade] button.

9) Installation is now complete. Click the [Close] button.

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10) Next, install the USB driver. The screen to the right will be displayed. Please click the [Install] button.

11) Click the [OK] button and

continue installation.

12) Enter a "Name" and a

"Password" and click the [OK] button.

13) Installation is completed. Click

the [Restart] button.

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c) To uninstall the software from a Macintosh computer

 NOTE!

Perform the following procedure only if you no longer want Data Transfer Software on your computer.

1) Quit all applications that are

currently running on your Macintosh.

2) Open "Macintosh HD" and then

double-click the "Applications" folder.

3) Select the "Data Transfer

Software.app" folder and drag it to Trash.

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3. Basic Operation

(1) To connect the light meter to your computer

a) Use the included USB cable.

 NOTE!

Be sure to use only the USB cable (1 meter) that comes bundled with the light meter.

b) Connect the USB cable to your

computer.

c) Check to make sure that the light

meter is turned off.

d) Connect the other end of the USB

cable to the light meter.

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e) Turn on the light meter. If

everything is connected properly, a USB icon will flash on the light meter's LCD screen.

f) Connection is now complete.

Double-click the icon on your computer desktop (shown to the right), to start up Data Transfer Software.

 NOTE!

Do not disconnect the USB cable while Data Transfer Software is running and the light meter is turned on. If you do, Data Transfer Software may not operate properly when you reconnect the cable. If this happens, quit Data Transfer Software and then use the procedure under "(1) To connect the light meter to your computer" to restart it. (Page 22)

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(2) To disconnect the light meter from your computer

a) Quit the Data Transfer Software application.

b) Turn off the light meter. This will

cause the USB icon to disappear from the LCD.

c) Disconnect the USB cable from

the light meter.

d) Disconnect the USB cable from

the computer.

 NOTE!

In order to ensure that the light meter is water resistant, be sure to close its USB port cover whenever you are not using it.

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(3) Using Data Transfer Software

a) Starting Up Data Transfer Software

After you start up Data Transfer Software you can use its various functions. For details about configuring settings, see "4. Camera Exposure Profiling". (Page

38)

1) Double-click the icon (like the

one shown to the right) on your computer desktop to start up Data Transfer Software.

2) After the initial opening screen, a

default “Main Screen” will appear, which you can use to change the file name and camera names.

b) Creating New Data

To create new data, select "New(N)" on the "File(F)" menu

(I), or click the new data icon (II)

and display the new “Main Screen”.

 The following procedures are all explained using the

Windows version of Data Transfer Software.

( )

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c) Entering Names

Before performing the data input procedure, first enter a file name that helps you later to understand the content of the data.

1) Enter a name in the "File Name"

box. Data you enter will be managed in accordance with the file name you enter here.

2) You can enter the names of three

different digital cameras or types of film here: "Camera 1", "Camera 2", and "Camera 3".

 Reference

You can enter up to 31 single-byte alphanumeric characters for the three different profile names (camera 1, camera 2, camera 3). It is a good idea to assign easy-to-remember names.

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d) Selecting an Input Item

Input items consist of incident/reflected spot measurement, light source type (ambient, flash) for Camera 1, Camera 2, and Camera 3, for a total of 12 possible combinations. There are three different methods that can be used for input: “Patch Input”(Calculation of Compensation Value, and Calculation of Dynamic Range/Clipping Point), “Two Point Input”, and “Direct Input”.

1) On the “Main Screen”, click the

button of the combination you want to input.

e) Data Input 1 (Patch Input)

*Applied for still (photography)

1) The Patch Input is an easy

method for calculating the difference between the light meter measurement and camera exposure data. The meter compensation value is displayed by selecting the same patch in the software as the patch selected from the test target evaluation.(using image-editing software).

1. The “Input Screen” displays the input data items. Check area (I). If the items in area (I) are wrong, click the [Cancel] button and select the input items again.

2. Double-clicking the selected ISO cell in the "Meter compensation value" column (II) will open the data enter window called "Calculation of compensation value " screen.

 NOTE!

Clicking the [Cancel] button will clear all the contents of the screen and return to the “Main Screen”.

(I)

(II)

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3. If you are going to use the “Exposure Profile Target” to define the location (patch) of a level (specified using image-editing software), click the proper patch (III) button at that location. After entering the data for all of the other boxes, click the [Calculate] button. The calculated compensation will be displayed in the "Comp. value (EV)" window.

Since exposure bracketing is not always possible with certain types of lighting, cameras and lenses, changing the distance of the light source from the test target may be necessary. If it becomes necessary to change the distance of the lighting or brightness value from the standard exposure, (using the light meter in EV mode) enter the difference in EV value from the standard exposure from the new exposure “Correction value of light output power” box.

 Reference

See "2) Obtaining the Meter compensation value" for information about determining

the specified compensation value with the Exposure Profile Target. (See page 50)

4. Click the [OK] button and the calculated result is displayed in the "Comp. Value"(meter compensation value) box within the “Input Screen” window shown above.

5. Repeat the above procedure

for other ISO setting values as required. If you want to change only some of the setting values, use direct input to change them on the “Input Screen”.

6. Inputting any value (n) for the shutter speed (T) will be interpreted as a setting of 1/n

(III)

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second. You can also specify a shutter speed by inputting a decimal or integer value followed by the letter s (seconds) or m (minutes).

Input Examples

- To input 2.3 seconds: 2.3s

- To input 5 minutes: 5m

 NOTE!

Clicking the [Cancel] button will clear all the contents of the window and return to the “Input Screen”.

 Reference

 With the Windows version of Data Transfer Software, right-clicking a box where

value input is possible will display a shortcut menu of values that can be entered.

 For details about configuration settings, see "4. Camera Exposure Profiling". (See

page 38)

2) The following is the method for calculating the difference between the light meter value and camera meter value, and displaying a dynamic range/clipping point.

1. In the (I) area of the “Input

Screen”, double-clicking either "Clipping Point -" or "Dynamic Range-" will display the "Calculation of Dynamic Range/Clipping Point (-)" window. Enter measured values into each box. If you are going to use “Exposure Profile Target” to define the location (patch) of a level (specified using image-editing software), click the proper patch”

(II) button at the same location.

After entering data for all of the other boxes, click the [Calculate] button. This will display "Dynamic Range (EV)" and "Clipping Point (EV)" values for the minus (-) or shadow area of the images. You can also calculate and set "Dynamic Range " and "Clipping Point " values for the plus (+) or highlight area of the image in the same way.

(I)



(II)

 NOTE!

Clicking the [Cancel] button will clear all the contents of the window and return to the Input screen.

 Reference

See "3) Obtaining the Dynamic Range and Clipping Points" For information about determining the specified Dynamic Range and Clipping point with the “Exposure Profile Target”. (See page 53)

2. When you click the calculation [OK] button on the " Calculation of Dynamic

Range/Clipping Point " screen, the calculated value will be displayed in the "Clipping Point " and "Dynamic Range ",(+/-) box.

3. Repeat the above procedure for other ISO setting values as required. If you

want to change only some of the setting values, use direct input to change them.

4. Inputting any value (n) for the shutter speed (T) will be interpreted as a setting

of 1/n second. You can also specify a shutter speed by inputting a decimal or integer value followed by the letter s (seconds) or m (minutes).

Input Examples

- To input 2.3 seconds: 2.3s

- To input 5 minutes: 5m

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 Reference

 When clipping point is not required,

enter the dynamic range value for the clipping point.

 With the Windows version of Data

Transfer Software, right-clicking a

box where value input s are possible will display selectable T or FNo. values, that can be automatically entered into the cell.

 For details about configuring

settings, see "4. Camera Exposure Profiling". (Page 38)

f) Data Input 2 (Two Point Input)

With this input method, all setting values are calculated and displayed automatically based on data entered for two ISO values.

1) The “Input Screen” displays the input data items. Check area (I).

2) Clicking the [Calculate] button (II) displays the "Two Point Input" window. To cancel this operation, click the [Cancel] button.

 NOTE!

Clicking the [Cancel] button will clear all the contents of the window and return to the “Input Screen”.

(I)

(II)

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3) Enter the first ISO in the "ISO (Lower Sensitivity)" box (start with the lower ISO value first – example ISO 100) Than enter the second ISO in the "ISO (High Sensitivity)" box (enter a high ISO value – example ISO 400). When you enter an ISO value, the other setting values on the Input screen (for the same ISO sensitivity) are entered automatically after you press the tab key. If necessary you can change set values that need to be corrected. Once you are satisfied with the entered data, click the [OK] button. This will perform the calculation and return to the “Input Screen”.

 NOTE!

The message shown to the right appears when a value or text you enter is outside the allowable input range. See "4) 2. [Preview] Button and Setting Ranges" for more information. (Page 33)

 Reference

･With the Windows version of Data Transfer Software, right-clicking a

box where value input s are possible will display selectable T or FNo. values, that can be automatically entered into the cell., along with Copy and Paste commands. For details about configuring setting value, see "4. Camera Exposure Profiling". (Page 38)

4) The message shown to the right will appear when a calculation result is outside the allowable setting range. See the following page for information about allowable setting ranges.

1. [Cancel] Button

Clicking the [Cancel] button returns to the "Two Point Input" screen to re-enter the data.

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2. [Preview] Button

Clicking the [Preview] button displays the " Two Point Calculation Preview" screen. This screen shows meter compensation value, clipping point (+/-) , dynamic range (+/-), for ISO3 to ISO8000.

 Allowable Settings Ranges

The white cells on the window show values that are within the allowable range. The red cells are outside of the allowable range (representing an error). The following table shows the allowable setting ranges.

3. [OK] Button Clicking the [OK] button will

display the results in the "Input Screen". (Example: Screen to the right) All input values are shown in blue.

The values surrounded by the red boundary actually are outside of the allowable setting range. In the case of meter compensation values, values outside the allowable setting range are input as +5EV when they exceed the upper limit of +5EV, and input as -5EV when they exceed the lower limit of -5EV. When the sum of the dynamic range (+) and clipping point (+) values exceeds +7EV, the clipping range (+) is reduced automatically and recalculation is performed so the sum becomes +7EV or less. When the sum of the dynamic range (-) and clipping point (-) values exceeds -7EV, the clipping range (-) is reduced automatically and recalculation is performed so the sum becomes -7EV or less.

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g) Data Input 3 (Direct Input)

When you already know the setting values, you can use the screen shown below (Input Screen) to enter them.

1) The “Input Screen” displays the input data items. Check area (I). If the items in area (I) are wrong, click the [Cancel] button and return to the “Main Screen”.

2) To enter the input mode, click with the input data area (II). After that, enter the desired settings values. The color of setting values you enter changes from black to blue. You can use your computer's arrow keys to move up, down, left, and right between setting items. If you do not see the ISO value you want, use your mouse to operate the scroll bar on the right (III) to scroll the screen.

 Reference

 With the Windows version of Data

Transfer Software, right-clicking a box where value input is possible will display a shortcut menu that contains values that can be entered, along with Copy and Paste commands.

 For details about configuring

settings, see "4. Camera Exposure Profiling". (Page 38)

(I)

(III)

(II)

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3) If you want to return the displayed items to their initial default values, click the [Default Values Input] button. Clicking [OK] in response to the message that appears and the default values for all cells will be restored.

4) After all of the input values are the way you want, click the “Complete Setting” button. This will record the input values and return to

the “Main Screen”.

 NOTE!

Clicking the [Cancel] button will clear all the contents of the screen and return to the “Main Screen”.

5) Repeat steps 1) to 4) as necessary.



h) Accessing Stored Data

You can connect the light meter to your computer with the provided USB cable to transfer light meter data to your computer for editing. Even when the light meter is not connected, you can open data previously stored on your computer and edit it. The basic operations are in accordance with the operating system of your computer.

 NOTE!

Files converted using software other than Data Transfer Software are not recognized.

1) To transfer the data from the light meter

1. Perform the steps under "(1) To connect the light meter to your computer". (Page 22)

2. On your computer screen,

select "Data Transfer to Computer(S)" in the "Light meter(L)" menu (I) or click the data transfer to computer icon

(II). This will display a screen

that shows the data stored in light meter memory.

2) To open data stored on your computer

On your computer screen, select "Open(O)" in the "File(F)" menu

(III) or click the open data icon (IV). This will display the data.

 NOTE!

Never disconnect the USB cable while the light meter and computer are communicating with each other. Doing so can corrupt the data and damage the light meter, and freeze operation of your computer and application. If operation of your computer freezes, restart it. Note that any data editing you performed with Data Transfer Software will be lost at this time. (Page 60)

(I)

(II)

(III)

(IV)



(I)

(II)

i) Saving the Data

You can connect the light meter to your computer with the provided USB cable to transfer data you enter on your computer to the light meter. You can also save light meter data on your computer. The basic operations are in accordance with the operating system of your computer.

1) To transfer displayed data to the light meter On your computer screen, select "

Data Transfer to Light Meter (R)" in the "Light meter(L)" menu (I), or select the data transfer to light meter icon (II). This will send the screen data to the light meter. Note, however, that data cannot be transferred if the initial default file name (Untitled) is still assigned to it. Change the file name before transferring the data.

2) To save displayed data on your computer, select "Save(S)" or “Save As(A)” on the File menu

(III), or select the save icon (IV).

This will save the screen data on your computer.

 NOTE!

Use 31 alphanumeric characters or less for the file name when saving. If other characters are used, characters may appear garbled depending on the language or operating environment.

j) Printing the Data

You can print the data in the currently open file. The basic operations for printing data is in accordance with the operating system of your computer.

1) On your computer screen, select

"Print(P)" in the "File(F)" menu (I) or the print icon (II). This will print the displayed data.

2) On your computer screen, select

"Print Preview(V)" in the "File(F)" menu (III) or the print preview icon

(IV). This will display a preview of the

(III)

(IV)

(I)

(II)

(III)

(IV)



print page for the displayed data.



 . Camera Exposure Profiling

Since no two digital cameras, camera and light meter or different types of film are likely to agree on the same exposure, they need to be calibrated. The L-758DR, L-758D and L-758CINE can be programmed to match the sensitivity of the film or digital camera sensor fro prefect exposure control. In addition, since film and digital cameras have their own unique dynamic range, clipping points (exposure tolerance) and varying ISO sensitivity they need to be profiled. To ensure repeatable and consistent measurements and to be aware of the dynamic range of a particular type of film or digital camera before making a photograph, The DIGITALMASTER L-758 series can be programmed to store, recall and display up to three different digital cameras or film types. For information about supported models, visit the Sekonic website.

http://www.sekonic.co.jp/English/

(1) Testing for Exposure Profiling

a) Introduction

1) Settings

* Compensation Value

Compensation value is the difference between the metered value of a hand-held meter and a specific camera (aperture and shutter speed). Compensation adjustment is within a +/- 5EV range in 1/10 step increments.

* Clipping Point (-)

The point at which a given lighting situation (pre-exposure) has surpassed the responds level of a sensor or film and alerts the shooter of an over or under exposure situation (Pre-Exposure Warning). These point can be custom set from -7EV to +0EV in 1/10 increments.

* Dynamic Range (-)

The point at which the sensor or film has reached its maximum reproducible shadow details minimum pixel noise or grain. Dynamic range (-) adjustment is set from -7EV to 0EV in 1/10 step increments.

* Dynamic Range (+)

The point at which the sensor or film has reached its maximum reproducible highlight details without blooming or highlight block up. Dynamic range (+) adjustment is set from 0EV to +7EV in 1/10 step increments.

* Clipping Point (+)



 Reference

The dynamic range settings and the clipping point settings can be switched, if it is necessary to create clipping points within the dynamic range as user defined limits for a specific type of out media like a printer. In this case, simply enter the dynamic range data in the clipping point cells and the clipping points in the dynamic range cells.

 Reference

The following are the setting values of each middle-tone, clipping point (-), dynamic range (-), dynamic range (+), and clipping point (+) values used by Sekonic.

Standard Exposure Value 118 Clipping Point (-) 20 Dynamic Range (-) 35 Dynamic Range (+) 230 Clipping Point (+) 245

You may have other standards or needs that require the use of different settings. (Page 58)



All of these settings can be entered using the ISO sensitivity (from ISO3 to 8000, in 1/3 step). In addition, you can configure individual settings for up to three exposure profiling (cameras, type of compressed file, etc.).

2) Procedure for Exposure Profiling

1 Prepare the equipment required

2 Set up the equipments so it cannot move during test shooting. Also ensure that the “Exposure Profile Target” is illuminated evenly.

3 Make bracketed exposures according to each combination of the light source type (ambient or flash) and the ISO value (ISO3 to ISO8000) as required.

4 Use the info function of your image-editing software and find the setting values with the G-level of RGB readout.

 NOTE!

Data Transfer Software and Software Guide (Testing procedure, Image analyzing

and Data enter) are preliminary for still photography use. For more information, please visit us at www.sekonic.co.jp or

www.sekonic.com

Exposure Profiling

Exposure Profile 1（CAMERA 1）

Exposure Profile 2（CAMERA 2）

Exposure Profile 3（CAMERA 3）



b) Preparing Equipment

Prepare the equipment required for shooting the test target.

1. Camera

Mount the lens that you use most often.

2. Light meter

Since measurements of incident light and reflected light are required, use of the Sekonic L-758DR(L-758D/758CINE) or other light meter with built-in incident/reflective spot measurement is recommended.

3. Tripod

Since hand movement when shooting with long exposure can affect test shot results, use of a tripod is recommended.

4. Lighting Equipment

Use photographic lamps, flash, etc. Natural sunlight can also be used as long as there is uniform brightness across the exposure profile target and no change in brightness during the test shot.

5. Test Target (18% Gray Card)

Use of the Sekonic “Exposure Profile Target”, which is available as an optional accessory, is recommended for efficient shooting.

6. Light Stand

Use of a Light stand is recommended for securing the “Exposure Profile Target“ and for stable shooting.

7. Computer

The computer should be installed with Data Transfer Software and image-editing software capable of measuring the output levels of the images.

 Reference

Measured values can be altered by changing the lighting or equipment (different production lot or software version). To ensure that you are able to obtain accurate correction values, make sure that you use the same equipments (camera, lens, light source, etc.) for test shots that you plan to use for actual shooting.



c) Settings

1) “Exposure Profile Target”

1. Perform test shooting in an area where there is no unwanted light, against a

dark wall or similar background. When using a light stand holding the test target, position it so there is some distance (about one meter) from the background.

2. Secure the Exposure Profile Target to a stand or wall. Secure the target firmly so there is no chance of movement when shooting. Set up the target for the 18% gray side (Side B) for white balancing.

“Exposure Profile Target” (Optional Accessory)

 Gray scale side (Side A)

Use this side to obtain setting values for the meter compensation value, dynamic range, and clipping point values. A single shot obtains 1EV of data in 1/6EV steps. The following table shows the reflectance and EV difference for each patch (1 to 9).

 18% Gray side (Side B)

Use this side when configuring digital camera white balancing.

 Reference

The test shooting described in this manual also can be performed using a commercially available 18% gray card or grayscale card. When using a commercially available card, be sure to read the operating precautions described in the instruction manual that comes with it.



2) Lighting

1. Set up the lighting equipments in a temporary configuration. To maximize illumination uniformity across the “Exposure Profile Target” (Side B), use two lights at 45-degree angles left and right, similar to the setup of art copying work.

2. Adjust the optical axis of the lens so the center of the “Exposure Profile Target” is the reference point, and level with the optical axis of the lighting equipment.

3. Adjust the lighting.

3-1. Using Ambient Light

Configure the light meter for incident light (Lumisphere in UP position), and select 1/30 second for the ambient light shutter speed priority mode. Take a measurement near the surface and in the center of the “Exposure Profile Target”. Adjust the positions of the lighting so that the measured value (aperture) is three f-stops smaller than the maximum aperture opening of the lens being used (example: If maximum f-stop is 2.8 than the measured value should be f-8)

3-2. Using Electronic Flash

Configure the light meter for incident light (Lumisphere in UP position), and select the flash mode you want to use and the shutter speed that you will use for normal flash shooting. Set the shutter speed within the flash synchronization range. Take a measurement near the surface and in the center of the “Exposure Profile Target”. Adjust the positions of the lighting so the measured value (aperture) is three f-stops smaller than the maximum aperture opening of the lens being used. If you are using an electronic flash that has output adjustment, set power adjustment to the middle level output.

 Reference

When the maximum aperture of a lens is F2.5, round it upwards to F2.8. Set an aperture of F-8, which is three f-stops smaller , and then change the aperture value as you take test shots. This will make it easy to find the required aperture value.



4. Make sure that the illumination of the “Exposure Profile Target” is uniform

(within ±0.1EV). The light meter's contrast function makes it easy to check for illumination uniformity. If illumination is uneven, make fine adjustments to the lights to achieve uniform illumination at the specified brightness.

 Reference

 Light Meter Contrast Function

Rotate the light meter's Lumisphere retracting ring to down position until it clicks (to select the Lumidisc function). Position the light meter in the center of the Exposure

Profile Target and take a measurement, and then press the AVE./⊿EV button to make the measured value a standard value. Holding down the measuring button

will continually display an ⊿EV value that indicates the difference from the standard value. When using a flash, take measurements using the cord flash

mode.

5. After you are finished setting up the lighting, use the light meter to measure

both incident light and reflected light near the surface and in the center of the “Exposure Profile Target”, make a note of the aperture value (in 1/10 step increments) and the shutter speed.



3) Setting Up the Camera

1. Perform a custom camera white balance. Use the 18% gray side (Side B) of the “Exposure Profile Target” to custom white balance the camera.. For details, see the instruction manual that came with your camera.

 Reference

 With some lenses, a minimum focal distance problem can make it impossible to

file the viewfinder fame with the “Exposure Profile Target”. If this becomes the situation, than try to fill more than 25% of the frame with the “Exposure Profile Target” . In this case, it is not possible to use the “Exposure Profile Target” for custom white balance. See the instruction manual that comes with your camera for details about configuring the white balance setting manually.

 When you use auto white balance, the camera will correct automatically when the

light source is changed, so there may be some differences from the correction value set by the light meter. Custom white balancing is recommended for greater stability.

2. Secure the camera on a tripod. Set up the camera in a position so the “Exposure Profile Target” gray scale side (Side A) fills the entire frame (full field of view).

3. Select manual for the camera's exposure mode in order to allow exposure bracketing when test shooting. Turn off adjustment functions(*1) whenever possible before test shooting. Operation of such functions in test shooting can affect results.

(*1) Adjustment functions are for example; auto focus, anti-shake, built-in

shooting profiles, picture style (standard, portrait, landscape, etc) or preference (sharpness, contrast, saturation, color tone, etc)

4. Set the ISO sensitivity you want to use for test shooting.



4) Shooting

1-1. Using Ambient Light

Shoot in the range of ±7EV from the incident light value (standard exposure value) measured and recorded in step 5 under “2. Lighting". Bracket in 1EV steps, changing the shutter speed. In the figures on the right, the standard exposure value is represented by 0EV.

 Reference

 A good way to perform this procedure

is to first shoot with the standard exposure value and then shoot from +7EV to -7EV at 1EV steps.

1-2. Using Electronic Flash

Shoot in the range of ±7EV from the incident light value (standard exposure value) measured and recorded in step 5 under "2. Lighting"). Bracket in 1EV steps, changing the aperture value and light output. When brightness adjustment is not possible with these combinations, change the distance between the flash and exposure profile target and continue shooting. After changing the light output or distance, be sure to use the light meter to measure exposure (incident light) and record the difference from the standard exposure value. This difference is required as a "Correction value of light output power" when obtaining the dynamic range and clipping point. (Page 52)



!" #$%& '( )&* '+ )&,

) +&)

-+ +&.

-( (&)

-/ (&0

-. .&)

-* *&1

-1 0&)

-, ++

-0 +1

-2 ((

-+) /(

-++ .*

-+( 1.

-+/ 2)

-+. +(0

 Reference

To obtain the light output difference from the measured flash value

1. The table on the right shows the relationship between aperture value (AV) and aperture (FNo.). AV is aperture as an integer.

2. For a value measured with flash mode, use the table on the right to find the AV for the corresponding FNo.

3. When AV is determined, “Correction value of light output” is calculated by subtracting the standard exposure value (AV) from the adjusted light value (AV). Standard Exposure Value: FNo. 8.0 => 6.0 (AV) Adjusted Light Value: FNo. 1.4 2 (=F1.4+2/10) => 1 +

0.2 = 1.2 (AV)

Desired Light output Difference: 1.2 - 6.0 = -4.8

Example 1: To bracket exposure while changing the light output. It is possible to change the lighting every +/-7.0EV from the standard exposure value, however, it requires 15 times lighting adjustment and it’s difficult operation. The following is recommended procedure for electronic flash shooting of +/-2 stop bracketing for only three lighting output, which results in +/-7.0EV shooting.

1. If a lens with open aperture values of FNo. 2.8. is used.

2. The standard exposure value, which is three stops smaller than the maximum f-stop opening, is FNo. 8.0.

3. Set the proper flash synchronization shutter speed and FNo.8.0. Bracket exposures +/-2 stops from the standard exposure value (5 bracketing camera exposures: F8.0, 4.0, 5.6, 11, 16)

Camera

Exposure Data

Lighting

+7EV F4.0 +6EV F5.6 +5EV F8.0 +4EV F11 +3EV F16 +2EV F4.0 +1EV F5.6 +0EV F8.0

-1EV F11

-2EV F16

-3EV F4.0

-4EV F5.6

-5EV F8.0

-6EV F11

-7EV F16

Example: Open aperture F No.2.8

F45

F8.0

F1.4



4. Change the lighting to +5 stops from standard exposure value FNo.45 with hand-held light meter. Under this lighting, Bracket exposures +/-2 stops from the standard exposure value (5 bracketing camera exposures: F8.0,

4.0, 5.6, 11, 16)

5. Final lighting: Change the lighting to - 5 stops from standard exposure value FNo.1.4 with hand-held light meter. Bracketing exposures +/-2 stops from the standard exposure value (5 bracketing camera exposures: F8.0,

4.0, 5.6, 11, 16)

 Reference

･It may not be possible to make a measurement of -5EV from the standard

exposure value with an of FNo. 2.0 or wider opening and an ISO of 800 or higher. This is because the amount of light is too small for light meter to measure, and it’s out of measurement range. When this happens, set the lighting at the measurable limit of the light meter and shift the standard value by stepping down the difference from the apertures that cannot be measured to the limit of measuring range.

Example) In case of using the bright lens with F2.0 and ISO 800, and setting the lighting of

-5EV from standard exposure value (F5.6). The lowest measuring range at ISO 800 is F1.4(At ISO 100, the lowest measuring range is F0.5. ISO 800 is 3 steps higher than ISO 100, so F stop which is 3 stop larger than F0.5 is F1.4.), however, the desirable lighting is F1.0 (-5EV from F5.6) which cannot be measured by light meter. Accordingly, Shift the standard value from F5.6 to F8.0 by 1 stopped down aperture, which is equivalent to the difference between desired lighting and the limit of light meter measurement.

･The following are the aperture values for each bracket for your reference.

0.5, 0.7, 1.0, 1.4, 2.0, 2.8, 4.0, 5.6, 8.0, 11, 16, 22, 32, 45, 64, 90, 128

2. When using a camera that cannot record exposure conditions when shooting,

you should maintain a record of exposure conditions (shutter speed, aperture) by hand. These exposure conditions will be used for " d) Evaluating Test

Exposures ". (Page 49)

 Reference

The test shooting described in this manual also can be performed using a commercially available 18% gray card or gray scale card. When using a commercially available card, be sure to read the operating precautions described in the instruction manual that comes with it. Using your own 18% gray card or grayscale card may cause variations in test results.



d) Evaluating Test Exposures

Five types of setting data can be obtained from the test exposure images. Each setting data can be evaluated in the combination with incident or reflected light and ambient or flash output. The compensation value is the difference between the camera measured value and the light meter value (standard exposure value). For the clipping point (-), dynamic range (-), dynamic range (+), and clipping point (+), the difference is obtained from the standard exposure value, based on a prescribed level value.

1) Preparing the Software

1. Start up your image-editing software. 1-1. If you are using software that can display a histogram of color information for

a selected area, use the function for test image measurement.

Select the green channel and use the middle value for measurement. Specify about one fourth of the patch area as the selection area setting.

1-2. If you are using software that does not have the function described above,

look for an eyedropper tool or some other function for displaying color information. The G (Green) value of the RGB is used for measurement.

245

230

118

Dynamic range(-)

Standard Exposure Value

Clipping point(-)

Dynamic range(+)

Clipping point(+)

Level



 Reference

 Some image-editing software that has a tool like the eyedropper allows you to

change the sample range. If your software allows you to change the sample range, setting a range that is as wide as possible will enable more stable measurements. For information about changing the sample range, see the instruction manual that comes with the image-editing software you are using.

2) Obtaining the Compensation value

The compensation value is the difference between “the camera exposure setting” (shutter speed or aperture) of the image and the “light meter values” under incident light or reflected light measured in the center of the “Exposure Profile Target” (shown in the previous instruction of step 5 under "2. Lighting").

1. Open the file of the shooting data to be measured. At this time, open the image of standard exposure value or data that is closest to it. (I)

(I)

(II)

(III)



※ This explanation is presented based on a middle-tone value level of 118.

2. Use the measurement tool (selecting area or eyedropper, etc.) to measure the level values of the nine patches ((1) to (9)) in the Exposure Profile Target.

3. Check if the Patch (5) is 118 ±2. This is called the optimum patch hereunder.

If this value is anything other than 118 ±2, look at the patches to the left and

right for a value that is 118 ±2. When the value is higher than 118, measure on the patch (6), (7), (8) side. If you still cannot find the correct value, open the data with the next less EV (-1EV in this example) (II), and then measure to search for a level of 118 ±2. When the value is less than 118, measure on the patch (4), (3), (2) side. If you still cannot find the correct value, open the data to the next higher EV (+1EV here) (III), and then measure to search for a level of 118 ±2.

4. After you find out 118±2 level on the patch, enter the camera exposure data of the image, the patch which has 118±2 level, and light meter measurement of either incident or reflected light in the center of the Exposure Profile Target (shown in the note under step 5 under "2. Lighting") in to the window of “Calculation of Compensation Value” in Data Transfer Software to get the result.

 NOTE!

If the patch of 118 ±2 is other than the patch (5), make sure to select the patch in the “Calculation of Compensation Value” screen. Otherwise, the calculation result becomes incorrect because the default setting is the patch (5) if not selected. The screen below shows an example where 118 ±2 is on the patch (7). It shows that the differences between the light meter value and the camera setting value is +0.3EV.



See "4) Shooting" (Page 46).

Enter the light meter value (incident light or reflected light) first measured and displayed on the light meter when shooting.

Enter the camera exposure of the patch where 118 was

found. T：1/30, F：8.0



3) Obtaining the Clipping Point and Dynamic Range

1.The following steps acquire the Dynamic range (-) and Dynamic range (+). 1-1. Use the procedure under "2) Obtaining the Compensation value" (page 50)

to calculate the value. For Dynamic range (-), it is recommended that you open the file that is -3 EV from the test image that you obtained the compensation value from. Use the same technique for Dynamic range (+) but use +3 EV from the test image that you obtained the compensation value from.

Though a level value of 118 ±2 is used when obtaining the Compensation

Value, Dynamic range (-) and Dynamic range (+) are obtained referring to the following values. Dynamic Range (-) Level Value 35±2 Dynamic Range (+) Level Value 230±2

1-2. Dynamic range (-) and Dynamic range (+) are obtained by subtracting the

previously obtained Compensation value from each of the values obtained here.

2.The following steps acquire the Clipping point (-) and Clipping point (+). 2-1. Use the procedure under "2) Obtaining the Compensation value" to calculate

the value. For Clipping point (-), it is recommended that you open the file that is -4 EV from the test image that you obtained the compensation value from. Use the same technique for Clipping Point (+) but us +4 EV from the test image that you obtained the compensation value from Though a level value of 118 ±2 is used when obtaining the Correction difference, Clipping point (-) and Clipping point (+) are obtained referring to the following values. Clipping Point (-) Level Value 20±2 Clipping Point (+) Level Value 245±2

2-2. Clipping point (-) and Clipping point (+) are obtained by subtracting the

previously obtained dynamic range (-) value and dynamic range (+) value from each of the corresponding values obtained here.

When the sum of the dynamic range (+) and clipping point (+) values exceeds +7EV, the clipping point (+) is reduced automatically and recalculation is performed so the sum becomes +7EV or less. When the sum of the dynamic range (-) and clipping point (-) values exceeds -7EV, the clipping point (-) is reduced automatically and recalculation is performed so the sum becomes -7EV or less. (Page 39 & 49)



Example: Determine the Dynamic range (-) and Clipping point (-) with flash/incident light

 Dynamic Range (-)

 You can determine Clipping point (-) the same way as Dynamic point (-). Search for

a desired value (20).

 Reference

If you do not want to set the Clipping point, input the same value as the Dynamic range.

 Reference

The setting values obtained by this evaluation depend on your own particular operating conditions including equipment. The value of each setting (Dynamic range or Clipping point) does not indicate any qualitative information about your digital camera or light meter.

Enter the adjusted value of flash output. (Page 46)

Enter the values (incident light) first measured and displayed on the exposure meter when shooting. T 1/125, F 5.6

Enter shooting conditions of the patch where value (35) was found. T 1/125, F 11



5. Appendix

(1) Exposure

There are two exposure values: a standard exposure value and a proper exposure value. Understanding the meanings of these two exposure values is the key to better photography.

a) Standard Exposure Values

Exposure values (EV) are calculated based on illuminance (in the case of an incident light meter), or luminance (in the case of the reflected light meter). The calculation formulas used by these light meters contain constants called "calibration constants," the values of which produce differences in EV values. The constants are defined for within a specific range by each manufacturer. This value is standard exposure value as defined by the manufacturer.

 Reference

The following are the calibration constants used by Sekonic light meters. Incident Light meter: C=340 Lumisphere C=250 Lumidisc Reflected Light: K=12.5

b) Proper Exposure Value

Skilled photographers often modify the exposure value displayed in a light meter with his own instincts and personal preferences in order to obtain the final image he wants. This means that depending on the photographer's intentions, a different exposure value may be used even when shooting the exact same subject. For example, when taking a picture of a forest that has shafts of sunlight shining brightly between the trees. If the photographer wants to highlight the shafts of sunlight, he would use a lower exposure to darken the trees, which makes the appearance of the sunbeams more striking. In this case, the proper exposure value is one that produces less exposure. If the photographer wants to capture the mood inside the forest while still maintaining the spotlight image of the sunlight shining through, he might increase exposure somewhat. In this case the higher value would be the proper exposure value. The proper exposure value is the one that produces the image that the photographer is trying to achieve.



(2)Sensitometry

"Sensitometry" is a term that was created by combining the words "sensitivity" and "measurement". In the film camera era, a densitometer and other equipments were required to manage color temperature and brightness of light source, exposure time and conditions, developing time, and film image density, equipment that most people did not have. With the dawn of the digital camera age, however, image-editing software has created an environment in which just about anyone can measure shooting conditions. Here we will explain how to use a digital camera with a light meter to obtain good photographs, and provide an understanding of some of the thinking behind sensitometry.

a) Sensitivity Characteristic Curve

This is a graph of the relationship between the exposure amount (light source brightness + subject reflectivity) and output (digital camera) or film density (film camera). The above graph is presented to help explaining sensitivity characteristics. For an actual camera, there would be three graphs, for R, G, and B. Here we will assume that all three colors have identical characteristics and so we will need only one graph.



In this graph, brightness differences are expressed as EV values based on the middle-tone. The vertical axis of the graph is the output level (8-bit). Level 0 is black, while level 255 is white. This graph shows how brightness differences of the subject will appear as brightness differences on a photograph. More specifically, it lets you use a light meter to measure the brightness of a subject and then, based on the exposure setting of the camera, know how the brightness will appear in the photograph.

After you measure a highlight of the subject, for example, you can determine numerically whether the measured area can be reproduced photographically (without blooming or highlight block up). You also can numerically determine whether a shadow can be reproduced photographically (without pixel noise or grain). Though some digital cameras include functions that warn you when blooming or grain appear, they don’t show numerically how many stop are off from dynamic range/clipping point while the light meter can do.

The above graph is presented to help explaining the differences between exposure ranges. This graph shows that the flatter the curve is, the wider the photographic exposure range is. That is to say, since the exposure range is wide, it is possible to photographically reproduce a subject in which there is great



contrast between highlights and shadows. Looking at this graph may suggest that a digital camera with a wide exposure range is better. However, the output level for all three curves is the same (0 to 255), so increasing the width of the photographic exposure for each level broadens the exposure range. As a result, the fine details of a subject with little contrast are difficult to be reproduced. In order to capture fine details, you need to use a digital camera with a curve that is more upright to reproduce tonal changes. The purpose of finding out the characteristic curve of your digital camera is not to find out if the characteristics are good or bad. By understanding the characteristics of your digital camera, you will be able to understand how it will reproduce the brightness of a subject that you measure using a light meter. If you can shoot with lighting that helps the maximum limit of your digital camera's exposure range, you will be able to take shots that brings out the best of your camera's characteristics.

 Reference

 Depending on the type of images you are trying to achieve, The image obtained

according to the Middle-tone (Standard Exposure Value), Clipping point (-), Dynamic range (-), Dynamic range (+), and Clipping point (+) setting values used by Sekonic may be different from what you desire. The following are the values and their tolerance values (in parentheses) used by Sekonic. Middle-tone 118 (113 to 123) Clipping Point (-) 20 (15 to 25) Dynamic Range (-) 35 (30 to 40) Dynamic Range (+) 230 (225 to 235) Clipping Point (+) 245 (240 to 250)

 Some digital cameras have the contrast setting function which let you adjust a

exposure range. Using a narrow exposure range is good for subjects with little contrast (difference between highlights and shadows) and when you want to capture fine details of tone of subjects.

b) Middle-tone

The standard sensitivity level (*1) of a digital camera is called the "middle-tone" by Sekonic. Sekonic uses the range of 113 to 123 for the setting value as a guidance. If you feel that there is a difference between the measured data and the setting value, you can adjust it to the appropriate value. The difference between the shooting conditions (aperture and shutter speed) obtained when using this specified value and the measured values by the light meter is the Compensation value. You can set a value in the range of -5 EV to +5 EV in 1/10 step increments.

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(*1) Standard Sensitivity Level The sensitivity measurement standard value, as a result, 118 in the case of 8 bits, is the Y-value that corresponds to an 18% standard neutral gray subject when the digital maximum output (255 in the case of 8 bits) in color space sRGB area corresponds to a subject reflectivity of 100%.

c) Dynamic Range

At Sekonic, the range from the middle-tone to the point at which the camera sensor or film has reached its maximum reproducible details as photographic exposure (*2) is called "Dynamic range (+)" in the highlight direction and "Dynamic range (-)" in the shadow direction. Supported setting values in Sekonic Data Transfer Software or light meter are 0 EV to +7 EV for Dynamic range (+) and -7 EV to 0 EV for Dynamic range (-) in 1/10 step increments. The setting range (level) should be set in accordance with the specifications of the digital camera being used and your own thoughts about the type of images you are trying to achieve. Sekonic uses the ranges of 225 to 235 for dynamic range (+) and 30 to 40 for dynamic range (-) as a guidance. If you feel that there is a difference between the measured data and the setting value, you can adjust it to the appropriate value.

(*2) Photographic Exposure This is the amount of light that reaches the sensor or film after passing through the lens. Put more simply, it is the brightness of the subject.

d) Clipping Point

The clipping point is the range from the Dynamic range to the point at which a given lighting situation (pre-exposure) has surpassed the responds level of a sensor or film and alerts the shooter of an over or under exposure situation (Pre-Exposure Warning); Clipping point (-), or start to build pixel noise or grain in the shadows; Clipping point (-) as photographic exposure changes, defined by Sekonic. This is a limit where texture and tone can be reproduced photographically. Supported setting values in Sekonic Data Transfer Software or light meter are 0 EV to +7 EV for Clipping point (+) and -7 EV to 0 EV for Clipping point (-) in 1/10 step increments.. The setting range (level) should be set in accordance with the specifications of the digital camera being used and your own thoughts about the type of images you are trying to achieve. At this time, the values (especially on the shadow side) will depend on your own thoughts of how much noise will be acceptable in the shadows and how much color clipping will be acceptable in the highlights. Sekonic uses the ranges of 240 to 250 for Clipping point (+) and 15 to 25 for Clipping point (-) as a guidance. If you feel that there is a difference between the measured data and the setting value, you can adjust it to the appropriate value.

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 . Troubleshooting

This section provides what you should do when you encounter some of the most common problems that might occur while using Data Transfer Software. Before contacting Sekonic, check the information here to see if you can solve the problem on your own. It is recommended that you keep notes of messages that appear on your screen and other details. They will come in handy as you look for information when checking this troubleshooting guide and if you need to contact Sekonic. Make sure you first select “About SEKONIC Data Transfer Software” on the “Help(H)” menu in the Main screen to find out the version you are using. Make a note of the version number and have it on hand when you contact Sekonic.

Problem

Recommended Action

The installer does not start up automatically.

Navigate to the CD-ROM on your computer and double-click "AutoRun". (Windows: Page 10)

Screen text characters are garbled.

If you installed the wrong language version of the driver and Data Transfer Software, uninstall them. Next re-install Data Transfer Software for the language version that matches the language of your operating system. (Windows: Page 9) (Macintosh: Page 17)

Can't enter a file name.

Enter up to 31 single-byte alphanumeric characters for a file name. Double-byte characters are not supported. (Page 26)

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Problem

Recommended Action

The message "The input data is outside of set range " appears on the display.

Right-clicking a cell (box) where entry is possible will display a list of available settings. Select the setting you want from the list or enter the value that was calculated automatically. For details about setting values, see "Camera Exposure Profiling". (Page 38)

The message "Input data without blank" appears on the display.

Enter values for all of the settings that require entry. For details about setting values, see "Camera Exposure Profiling". (Page 38)

My computer will not recognize the light meter.

1. Use a computer supported by the Data Transfer Software system requirements. (Windows: Page 8) (Macintosh: Page 17)

2. Connect the exclusive USB cable supplied with light meter. (Page 22)

3. Make sure that the light meter is turned on.

4. Complete driver installation. (Windows: Page 12) (Macintosh: Page 20)

A file saved on my computer will not open with Data Transfer Software.

Editing a file with software other than Data Transfer

Software may make it unreadable by Data Transfer Software. Be sure to use Data Transfer Software to edit

files. (Page 36)

Data Transfer Software suddenly shuts down.

1. If your computer shuts down. . . Restart your computer. Note that any data being edited with Data Transfer Software will be lost at this time.

2. If Data Transfer Software only shuts down

(Windows). . .

(1) On your computer keyboard, press [Ctrl] + [Alt] +

[Delete] to start up Task Manager.

(2) Select the "Applications" tab, and then select "Data

Transfer Software" under "Task". (3) Click the [End Task] button. (4) If you get a message that the program is not

responding, click the [End Now] button. (5) If you get a message asking whether you want to

send an error message, click [No]. (6) Restart Data Transfer Software.

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Problem

Recommended Action

Two Data Transfer Software windows are displayed.

1. From the Windows Control Panel, display the Display Properties dialog box.

2. Select the "Settings" tab and then click the [Advanced] button.

3. On the "General" tab, select "Normal size (96 DPI)" for "DPI setting".

4. Restart your computer and then restart Data Transfer Software. Note that any data editing you performed with Data Transfer Software will be lost at this time.

Text or figures inside of message boxes are cut off.

1. From the Windows Control Panel, display the Display Properties dialog box.

2. Select the "Appearance" tab and then change the "Font Size" setting to "Normal".

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7-24-14, OIZUMI-GAKUEN-CHO, NERIMA-KU, TOKYO 178-8686 JAPAN

TEL: +81(0)3-3978-2335 FAX: +81(0)3-3978-5229

http://www.sekonic.co.jp/English

Ver. 1.2

Sekonic DATA TRANSFER User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual