Photographers, makers, and Arduino enthusiasts interested in building their very own incident light meter for old meterless mechanical film cameras will surely be intrigued by a project published on the Hackster.io website. This project provides detailed instructions on how to create the ArduMeter, an Arduino-based incident light meter.
The project employs an Arduino Nano R3, a BH1750FVI Digital Light Intensity Sensor Module, a 0.96″ 128×64 OLED I2C Display, a rotary potentiometer, and a couple of breadboards. This combination of components allows for the creation of a functional and customizable light meter.
Components and Assembly
The ArduMeter project is powered by a small power bank, making it portable and convenient for on-the-go photography. The results are displayed on a 0.96″ SSD1306 OLED each time you press the button. The input from the BH1750 light intensity sensor is calculated into exposure values (EV), which are essential for determining the correct exposure settings for your camera.
The incident-light meter calibration constant is set to 340 (reference), which can be adjusted based on your specific needs. Aperture and ISO settings can be configured via two potentiometers, providing flexibility and control over your exposure settings. Additionally, if you connect the device to a computer, you can access more detailed data via the serial port.
The creator of the project mentions that they used two mini breadboards glued back-to-back for the assembly. However, this setup can also be reproduced on regular breadboards if preferred. This flexibility in assembly allows for customization based on the components and tools you have available.
Performance and Accuracy
The creator notes that they have not yet had the means to thoroughly test the device. As a result, the measured values can sometimes be quite accurate, while at other times, they may differ significantly from readings obtained with reflective light meters on digital or analog cameras. This variability highlights the importance of calibration and testing to ensure the device meets your specific requirements.
Incident light meters, like the ArduMeter, measure the light falling onto the subject, providing a more accurate representation of the lighting conditions compared to reflective light meters, which measure the light reflected off the subject. This distinction is crucial for photographers who need precise exposure settings, especially when working with film cameras that lack built-in light meters.
Applications and Benefits
Building your own incident light meter with the ArduMeter project offers several benefits. For one, it provides a cost-effective solution for photographers who may not want to invest in expensive commercial light meters. Additionally, the project offers a hands-on learning experience for Arduino enthusiasts and makers, allowing them to deepen their understanding of electronics and programming.
Moreover, the ArduMeter can be customized and modified to suit individual needs. For example, you could add additional features such as a larger display, different sensors, or even integrate it with other photography equipment. This level of customization is often not possible with commercial light meters, making the ArduMeter a versatile and valuable tool for photographers and makers alike.
The ArduMeter project is an excellent example of how Arduino technology can be used to create practical and functional devices for photography. By following the detailed instructions provided on the Hackster.io website, you can build your own incident light meter and gain valuable insights into the world of electronics and programming.
Source: Hackster.io
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