setting exposure compensation: help?

[jess128]

So in that case, any idea why the photos are coming out black in manual mode? I've tried several combinations of shutter speed, aperature, and ISO

[sk66]

Maybe not enough combinations...the meter may only read a max of -2 even though it's really -4.
Try using Av mode or S or P and see what the camera says are the right setting and then start with those in manual.

[RLucas]

Originally Posted by Jonbar18

Not on my D3100.
I think that's only for higher end cameras. Or maybe ones with dual dials.

Yes you can. It affects the way the meter reads. Set it something, and dial the exposure in. Change the EC setting, and watch the meter change with it. The settings won't change in manual as you will have to manually dial those to recenter the meter.
All mine are set to +.7 because both of my cameras tend to underexpose.

[nickbedford]

A -2 EV exposure will not usually produce something that is completely black. 2 stops underexposed is dark but not that dark which means that your current exposure triangle is set to a dark exposure.

In manual mode, you need to set all three settings (unless you're using Auto ISO, which is appears you're not).

You need to bring the settings up to the point where the needle lines up to an exposure value you're comfortable with (whether it's +0 EV, over or under).

I've never heard of setting an exposure compensation in manual (since you can't do that on Canons). If you need -1 EV, then just set the settings to where the needle lines up with -1 EV.

[RichardTaylor]

You may find this tutorial on exposure helpful.

Exposure (1) A balancing act