Sunlight equivalent light bulb

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SUMMARY

To replicate the average intensity of direct sunlight, a full spectrum light bulb must generate between 700 to 1400 watts per square meter. For practical use in calibrating a photo sensor, the bulb would need to have a significantly higher wattage, potentially in the thousands, to effectively simulate sunlight at close range. Additionally, users should consider energy loss due to heat when selecting a bulb for this purpose. Engaging with photography forums may provide further insights and recommendations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of full spectrum lighting technology
  • Knowledge of light intensity measurements in watts per square meter
  • Familiarity with photo sensor calibration techniques
  • Basic principles of energy loss in lighting systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research full spectrum light bulb options for high wattage output
  • Learn about light intensity measurement tools and techniques
  • Explore photo sensor calibration methods in photography
  • Investigate energy efficiency and heat management in high-wattage bulbs
USEFUL FOR

Photographers, lighting designers, and anyone involved in calibrating photo sensors or simulating natural light conditions in indoor environments.

vinniewryan
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If the 'average' intensity of direct sunlight on a warm summer day could be re-produced in a full spectrum light bulb, how many watts would that bulb be? I'm trying to find a bulb I can use to calibrate a photo sensor to sunlight intensity but my shop is on the base floor where there are no windows, and it's Seattle- no sunlight here.

I've searched google, all I get are light bulb ads. No useful info there.
 
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You will need to generate between 700 - 1400 watts per square meter. The bulb itself would need to be many thousands of watts to simulate sunlight on an object very close to it. Also keep in mind any energy lost to heating up the bulb.
 
you may be better off joining a photography forum :smile:
 

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