The aim of this paper is to propose an improved approach for the measurement of the severity of power quality phenomenon called light flicker which is the disturbance caused by luminance variations due to supply voltage fluctuations. The proposed approach is based directly on light intensity measurements, unlike usual standard approach (IEC EN 61000-4-15), which indirectly determines flicker severity from measuring voltage fluctuations and accounting the response of a standard incandescent lamp (230V/60W). Only adopting a direct measurement of light fluctuation is possible to asses flicker severity whatever illuminating device is present, in this way, the implemented sensor is considered to perform an objective measurement of light flicker. To compare performances and metrological characteristics with current standard requirements, a testing station has been implemented and results compared to a standard IEC flickermeter (Norma D6000). Thanks to its small dimensions and weight, the instrument can be used to measure light flicker over a wide range of environments spanning from home/office to industrial locations.