Methodology
SPECTRD is built around a simple principle: providing reliable, real-world lighting measurements using a consistent and repeatable process.
The goal is not to create a purely theoretical database, but a practical reference tool for cinematographers, photographers, gaffers, and lighting technicians who want clearer insight into how lights actually behave in use.
Spectrometer
All measurements published on SPECTRD are taken using the Sekonic C700 spectrometer. This ensures that the entire database is based on the same measuring tool and the same reading logic, making comparisons more coherent from one fixture to another.
Light Modifiers
To keep the methodology as consistent as possible, the same light modifier is used for all compatible strobes and continuous lights: the Zhiyun fishscale bowl.
For fixtures that do not use a Bowens mount, measurements are taken with the stock reflector or bowl supplied with the unit.
For lights that cannot accept a modifier at all — such as the Nanlite Alien 300C or the Pavotube series — measurements are taken as-is, without any additional modifier.
This approach keeps the testing process grounded in real-world usage while remaining as standardized as possible across very different categories of lighting tools.
Measurement Distance
All measurements are normally taken at a distance of 1 metre from the C700 spectrometer.
There are, however, a few exceptions:
- If a light is not powerful enough to produce a meaningful reading at 1 metre — for example, a Pavotube 6C — the measuring distance is reduced to 50 cm.
- If a strobe is set to a very low power level, such as 1/64 or 1/128, the actual measuring distance used is indicated in the data table. A warning is also shown when comparing measurements taken at different distances.
This is important, because distance can affect the practical readability of some measurements, especially when output levels become very low.
Measurement Process
Each light is tested under controlled conditions in order to make the results as comparable as possible across the database.
Depending on the fixture, measurements may be recorded across multiple color temperatures and dimming levels. For each configuration, SPECTRD documents the key spectral and color data needed to evaluate a fixture beyond simple marketing claims.
This typically includes:
- spectral distribution
- color rendering data
- white balance and tint behaviour
- raw measurement values in CSV format
The purpose is to provide both an immediately readable overview and a more detailed data layer for users who want to dig deeper.
Important Notice
Lighting measurements are never completely universal.
Results can vary depending on several factors, including bulb variation, unit-to-unit manufacturing tolerances, firmware versions, reflector design, and general production differences between fixtures.
Because of that, the data available on SPECTRD should be understood as a reference point, not as an absolute truth.
This website is here to help users compare fixtures more clearly and make better-informed decisions, but it should not discourage anyone from testing their own lights independently. On the contrary, users are strongly encouraged to carry out their own tests whenever possible, especially when accuracy is critical for a shoot or a professional workflow.
About the Author
SPECTRD is created and maintained by Nicolas Aune, a freelance creative director and filmmaker based in Marseille, France.
Through his work in commercial production, cinematography, and lighting design, he developed a strong need for reliable, real-world data to better understand and compare lighting tools beyond marketing specifications.
SPECTRD is an extension of this field experience, a practical database built from on-set testing, designed to support professionals in making informed decisions about lighting.
In parallel, Nicolas shares in-depth gear tests and production insights on his YouTube channel and blog, focusing on real-world use cases and technical analysis.