Measuring Foot-Candles for Orchids Using Your Camera

Camera Light Meter Method (Canon Rebel XTi)

Want to match your Cattleyas (2,000–3,000 fc), Vandas (6,000–8,000 fc), Phalaenopsis (1,500–2,000 fc) to ideal light? Your camera can measure foot-candles.

Step-by-Step

1. Set ISO/ASA to 200.
2. Set shutter speed to 1/125 sec.
3. Focus on white paper near plant (paper fills frame).
4. Adjust f-stop until camera meter shows correct exposure.
5. Read foot-candles from f-stop:

Limitations

• Maxes out ~2,000 fc (f/22).
• For higher light (Vandas), need dedicated light meter (Google "light meter orchids").

Orlando Patio Move

70–80°F days, 50–55°F nights—good for Cattleyas/Vandas. Bloom booster until March, then 20-20-20. Join Central Florida Orchid Society—great community!

Angelo, your camera is a decent starting tool. For precision, invest in a quantum meter.