What’s Your Preference?

sfisher · #11 (**permalink**) 03-19-2009, 12:20 AM

I don't think the XT does spot metering, so that's not an option. I'd ignore the metering all together and use manual. If the lighting is constant then just find the right exposure and stick with it. If you're not happy using manual, I'd probably go for centre-weighted so that the exposure is likely to be correct for the subject.

If you've got the Canon 70-300 IS USM then it's the same lens I use for motorsports (usually outdoors, however). Here's what I do for panning:

Keep the IS turned on and switch it to Mode 2. In this mode the lens will detect the panning motion and turn the IS off in the parallel direction (but keeps it on in the perpendicular direction).
Switch the focus mode to 'AI Servo' and choose the centre AF point.
Change the shooting mode to 'Continuous'.

The shot begins with the subject in the distance approaching the point where you want to shoot. Make sure you chose the focal length for the framing you want in advance. When the subject comes into view, place the centre AF point on your subject and half-press the shutter release to start the AF tracking. Follow your subject smoothly, keeping the centre AF point on the subject. When the subject approaches your chosen shooting point, fully press the shutter release and take a few photos (how many depends on the size of your memory card!), trying to keep the panning motion smooth even when your viewfinder goes blank.

Good luck!

MOmilkman · #12 (**permalink**) 03-19-2009, 12:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OsmosisStudios

Metering refers to how your camera determines exposure.

There are various modes, but for this particular application I would suggest spot metering. That makes sure that whatever youre focused on is what youre metering for

Would that be partial metering or center-weighted average?