Phosphate Test: Lighting Angle Impact on Accuracy

[Clown2Fish]

Hi Reef2Reef Community ,

I recently used a phosphate test using an API kit and noticed different color readings based on lighting angles. The test was performed only once, but the angle of the light varied, resulting in two different colors for the same sample. Which lighting angle typically yields more accurate results? And what do you all see as a result?

(I know there are more accurate testing methods available but this was what I had on hand)
Thank you!

 

[EeyoreIsMySpiritAnimal]

Follow the directions on the test kit and take the reading under bright non direct natural light.

 

[EeyoreIsMySpiritAnimal]

Follow the directions on the test kit and take the reading under bright non direct natural light.

I do mine by a window...

 

[Clown2Fish]

I do mine by a window...

Yeah well the second one the window was behind me that’s why.

 

[taricha]

Yeah well the second one the window was behind me that’s why.

indirect sunlight from window lighting is also my preferred lighting for reading color cards.

(2nd pic looks much closer to decent lighting for comparison, not the first pic.)

 

[Clown2Fish]

indirect sunlight from window lighting is also my preferred lighting for reading color cards.

(2nd pic looks much closer to decent lighting for comparison, not the first pic.)

Yeah that’s totally make sens! Thank you too