1. Introduction
The Sekonic L-358 Flash Master is a digital light meter designed for accurate flash and ambient light readings in both incident and reflected modes. It provides essential exposure information for photographers to achieve precise lighting control and consistent results. This manual outlines the setup, operation, and maintenance of your L-358 meter.
Image 1.1: The Sekonic L-358 Flash Master Light Meter. This image displays the meter's main body with its Lumisphere, LCD screen, and control buttons, providing an overview of the device.
2. Setup
2.1. Battery Installation
The L-358 requires one CR123A Lithium battery for operation. To install the battery:
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the meter.
- Slide the cover to open the compartment.
- Insert one CR123A battery, ensuring correct polarity as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Image 2.1: Rear view of the Sekonic L-358 with the battery compartment open. This image shows the location for battery insertion and the DIP switches for custom settings.
2.2. Custom Functions (DIP Switches)
The meter features DIP switches for custom function settings, located within the battery compartment. These switches allow configuration of various operational parameters, such as shutter speed and aperture readout intervals (full, half, or third-stop). Refer to the markings next to the switches for specific configurations.
2.3. Optional Radio Flash Triggering
The Sekonic RT-32 Transmitter Module (sold separately) can be installed into the battery compartment for wireless flash triggering. This module supports 32 digital coded channels and Quad-Triggering Zones, compatible with PocketWizard® radio triggering systems. Installation involves inserting the module into the designated slot within the battery compartment.
Image 2.2: Packaging for the Sekonic Radio Transmitter Module. This image shows the box for the optional RT-32 module, which enables wireless flash triggering with the L-358.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1. General Controls
The L-358 features a Jog Wheel for settings adjustment and a large LCD for clear readout. Buttons for Power, AVE./ΔEV, ISO 1, ISO 2, Mode, and Memory are provided for various functions. Familiarize yourself with these controls for efficient operation.
Image 3.1: Front view of the Sekonic L-358. This image highlights the LCD screen, control buttons (Power, AVE./ΔEV, ISO 1, ISO 2, Mode, Memory), and the Jog Wheel for adjustments.
3.2. Ambient Light Metering
- Incident Light: For incident light readings of three-dimensional subjects, extend the Lumisphere. This measures the light falling on the subject, providing accurate exposure settings that render colors and tones naturally.
Image 3.2: Sekonic L-358 with the Lumisphere extended. This configuration is used for incident light measurements, capturing the light falling onto the subject.
- Reflected Light: For reflected light metering, use the included Lumigrid. The Lumisphere can be retracted to use the flat diffuser for contrast readings or to attach the Lumigrid. This measures light reflected from the subject.
Image 3.3: The Lumigrid attachment for the Sekonic L-358. This accessory is used for reflected light measurements, focusing on light bouncing off the subject.
3.3. Flash Light Metering
The L-358 supports flash metering with a synch cord or cordlessly. In cordless mode, the meter automatically resets after each reading, facilitating quick adjustments to flash brightness. The multi-flash function allows accumulating multiple flash pops to achieve the desired exposure or depth of field.
3.4. Analyzing Function
This function measures ambient and flash light simultaneously, indicating the percentage of flash in the total exposure. This is particularly useful for balancing mixed lighting scenarios. Adjust the ambient-flash mix using the Jog Wheel to achieve the desired effect.
3.5. Contrast Function
To set up lighting ratios or check scene evenness, take a reading of a key light or reference area and press the AVE./ΔEV button to establish it as a standard. Subsequent readings will display the brightness difference (in EV) between the current measurement and the established standard.
3.6. Memory and Averaging
The meter can store up to 9 readings in memory. These stored readings can be used for averaging to determine an overall exposure, or for contrast evaluations across different parts of a scene.
3.7. Dual ISO Settings
The two dedicated ISO buttons (ISO 1 and ISO 2) allow for quick switching between two different film speeds or sensor sensitivities. This feature is useful for comparing exposures with different ISO settings or when working with multiple film types.
3.8. Cine Readings
For motion picture applications, the L-358 calculates cine readings, supporting a wide range of frame rates from 2 to 360 frames-per-second. This provides precise exposure control for video production.
Image 3.4: Close-up of the Sekonic L-358 LCD display. This image illustrates how exposure values, ISO, and other settings are presented on the meter's screen during operation.
4. Maintenance
4.1. Care and Handling
The L-358 is designed to be dust-proof and splash-proof (JIS Standard Water Resistance Class 4), offering protection against light moisture. However, it is important to protect the meter from heavy rain, immersion in water, extreme temperatures, and physical shock to ensure its longevity and accuracy.
4.2. Battery Replacement
Replace the CR123A battery when the low battery indicator appears on the display. Always ensure correct polarity during installation to prevent damage to the meter.
5. Troubleshooting
5.1. Exposure Out of Range
If the display shows 'Eu' (underexposure) or 'Eo' (overexposure), the light conditions are outside the meter's measurable range. Adjust the lighting conditions or consider alternative camera settings (e.g., ISO, aperture, shutter speed) to bring the measurement within the meter's operational limits.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Digital exposure meter for ambient and flash light |
| Receptor Head | Rotating Domed Head (90° right, 180° left), Retractable Lumisphere |
| Light Receiving Method | Incident light and reflected light |
| Receptor Incident Light | Convertible to flat diffuser |
| Receptor Reflected Light | Lumigrid (54° angle) |
| Light Receptor Element | 2-Silicon photo diodes |
| Measuring Range (ISO 100) Ambient | EV-2 to EV 22.9 (Incident/Reflected) |
| Measuring Range (ISO 100) Flash | f/1.0 to f/90.9 (approx. f/124) |
| Repeat Accuracy | +/- 0.1 EV or less |
| Film Speed Range | ISO 3 to 8000 (in 1/3 steps) |
| Shutter Speeds Ambient | 30 min to 1/8000 sec. |
| Shutter Speeds Flash | 30 min to 1/1000 sec. |
| Aperture Range | f/1.0 to f/90.9 |
| EV Display Range | EV -10.0 to EV 40.0 |
| Cine Speeds (fps) | 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 18, 24, 25, 30, 32, 36, 40, 48, 50, 60, 64, 72, 96, 120, 128, 150, 200, 240, 256, 300, 360 |
| Memory Function | 9 readings |
| Flash Analyzing Function | 0 to 100% in 10% increments |
| Calibration Compensation | +/- 1.0 EV (in 1/10th steps) |
| Exposure Compensation | +/- 9.9 EV (in 1/10 steps) |
| Power Source | (1) CR123A Lithium Battery |
| Operating Temperature Range | 14° to 122° F / -10° to 50° C |
| Product Dimensions | 1.9 x 3.5 x 6.7 inches |
| Item Weight | 8.5 ounces |
| Model Number | 401-358 |
7. What's in the Box
The standard Sekonic L-358 Flash Master package typically includes the following items:
- Sekonic L-358 Flash Master Light Meter
- Lumigrid
- Soft Case
- Strap
- Synchro Terminal Cap
- CR123A Battery
Image 7.1: Contents of the Sekonic L-358 package. This image shows the light meter, operating manual, soft case, strap, and other accessories included with the product.
8. Warranty and Support
The Sekonic L-358 Flash Master includes a 3-year warranty, covering parts and labor. For detailed warranty information, technical assistance, or customer support, please refer to the official Sekonic website or contact their authorized service centers.
