Nope not at all... that's what makes these forums great

TJPphoto:
So it sounds like it's trial and error for me (in a test environment, of course)

Hi Tim!
Yep, trial and error is actually the way to go. Basically, you shoot a portrait using a main and a fill, carefully control the light power to be right on f 8.0. Double check with the meter - right inder the chin into the lens - to be f 8.0. Then shoot a JPEG in the STANDARD file settings mode on your camera and pull up the facemask histogram. From there, you can judge if the test shot is over or under, then use your meters exposure adjustment function to "dial it in". As you know, we do this all week long at the SSU classes with lot's of happy exposures!
Please let me know what I can do to help Tim!
: )

Thanks, Will. I won't be afraid of buying a new meter now.

Tim

WillCrockett:
Hi Tim!
Yep, trial and error is actually the way to go. Basically, you shoot a portrait using a main and a fill, carefully control the light power to be right on f 8.0. Double check with the meter - right inder the chin into the lens - to be f 8.0. Then shoot a JPEG in the STANDARD file settings mode on your camera and pull up the facemask histogram. From there, you can judge if the test shot is over or under, then use your meters exposure adjustment function to "dial it in". As you know, we do this all week long at the SSU classes with lot's of happy exposures!
Please let me know what I can do to help Tim!
: )


I am so happy you explained this. Thank you!!

How about shooting 18% Grey card to check spike dead center? You can shoot in raw or jpg format with no camera and no software setting. Make sure that spike is dead centre, if not then adjust light meter and lights accordingly.