Sekonic Studio Deluxe III L-398A Lightmeter

No, the L-398A features a battery-free selenium photocell, so it does not require any batteries to operate.

The Lumisphere is used for incident light readings to measure the light falling on your subject from a wide angle. The Lumidisc is used for selective area readings, allowing you to measure the light reflected from a specific small area.

All Sekonic meters, including the L-398A Studio Deluxe III, are supplied with a 3-year warranty.

Yes, the L-398A provides accurate light readings that can be used to set exposure for any digital camera, film camera, or lighting setup.

You can clean the Lumisphere with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. For stubborn smudges, use a lens cleaning solution sparingly on the cloth, not directly on the sphere.

The L-398A is primarily designed for ambient light readings. While it can be adapted for some flash metering by using a flash meter accessory or a separate sync cord setup, its core function is ambient light measurement.

Ensure the Lumisphere or Lumidisc is correctly attached and clean. Check that the needle is not obstructed. The selenium cell may degrade over many years; contact Sekonic support for evaluation if issues persist.

Ensure you are holding the meter steady and pointing it directly at the light source or subject area. Make sure the ambient light is not obstructed by your hand or body. Clean the sensor area.

Gently tap the side of the meter. If the problem persists, the internal mechanism may require servicing. Avoid forcing the needle.