Here is a new recommendation from the PACCIN Listserv (posted with permission).
The question was "Today I'm looking for recommendations for a digital light meter that can do readings in lux and foot candles. My photography background has me leaning towards a Sekonic but I wonder if there is another museum/gallery favorite out there."
Here is Scott's answer:
Whatever you get, make sure it’s an illuminance meter (not just a light meter that may read in f-stops rather than Lux or foot-candles). I am not familiar with the Sekonic illuminance meters, they are relatively inexpensive -- it would be great if they are reliable. Here is what I know:
The Elsec meter is probably the most expensive (and best) illuminance meter for museum applications. It’s my favorite best because it has options (at additional cost) to add UV, IR, Temp and Humidity measurements.
I typically use meters by Cooke (Cal light 400-f) for illuminance readings on museum objects. I like the Cooke meter because it can switch from Footcandles to Lux, it automatically shuts off, it’s half the price of the Elsec, and it’s instant on (it doesn’t require recalibration with a lens cap). Minolta also makes fantastic meters , but I think they only measures in either footcandles or Lux.
Lastly, I’ve purchased an inexpensive meter from Extech. That meter regularly fell apart (required re-soldering of connections) and after 5 years the electronics gave out. Whatever meter you purchase make sure that a NIST certificate is available. I have no idea if it’s worth the price to actually purchase the certificate, but not offering the option of a certificate is deal breaker for me.
Scott
Scott Rosenfeld, LC, IESNA
Smithsonian American Art Museum
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