Exposure Indicator Issues

[cbndrv]

Hi all,

I'm pretty new to photography and DSLRs, though I do have a tiny bit of experience under my belt.

Recently bought a D3100 and love it so far. The only thing that gets me is an issue with the exposure indicator. It seems to faithfully appear every time in Manual mode (though from what I understand, it's acting as a light meter here, not really an exposure indicator?).

When I switch to Aperture or Shutter priority it often still appears (I understand in this case it's usually acting as an exposure indicator? I usually try to get the tick to line up with or close to zero). Sidenote: I don't understand the rangefinder aspect, but maybe another question for another day.

The trouble is, sometimes in Aperture or Shutter Priority modes, the exposure indicator vanishes entirely. Then it might come back a couple shots later. Then vanish. I can't make out the logic of the disappearing and reappearing ticks from -2 to +2 . Is it disappearing when I'm close enough to zero, figuring I don't need any more guidance? I need help.

I do have some experience with manual mode--I'm okay at it. But when I'm moving fast I love having aperture or shutter mode to do a lot of the math for me.

Thanks!

Chris

[Azaki]

It always acts as an exposure meter. The metering system will turn off after a small amount of time if your not using your camera. To get it to re-appear just press your shutter half way down, like your trying to autofocus.