Exposure question

[nursemandalyn]

I've just started learning how to use my camera off auto mode. I've been reading a lot of the articles on here, and practicing as often as I can. I have a basic understanding of how white balance, ISO, aperture and all that work, although I still have a lot to learn obviously.

My question is, as far as working with getting a proper exposure, do you start to learn what settings work best under what conditions? Or is it more relying on a metering device, be it internal or external? Combination of both? I do plan on picking up a book on exposure soon I hope.

I'm just wondering, as I have noticed times where the camera will show it is properly exposed, but the picture actually is not. I think that sometimes I probably was reading the meter on a different area than I should have, since I am still learning.

[Henry Wilt]

Welcome to DPS.

This could be something to do with how you are metering, i.e. spot metering, evaluative metering etc.

To get the best advice it would be better to post an example with the EXIF data then we can see what is happening.

[Jonbar18]

Originally Posted by nursemandalyn

I'm just wondering, as I have noticed times where the camera will show it is properly exposed, but the picture actually is not. I think that sometimes I probably was reading the meter on a different area than I should have, since I am still learning.

most lower-end SLR's meters are usually off. for example, with the D5000 it over-exposes by 1 stop, so you have to aim for the -1

[nursemandalyn]

Originally Posted by Henry Wilt

Welcome to DPS.

This could be something to do with how you are metering, i.e. spot metering, evaluative metering etc.

To get the best advice it would be better to post an example with the EXIF data then we can see what is happening.

I have an older model Cannon Rebel, I was looking through the manual about changing my metering mode, and it doesn't sound like it will let me change it. I'm pretty sure it is more where I am focusing and getting the reading. It was in lower light situations that I noticed the problem. So maybe I was metering off a back area, rather than the person I was photographing? I can look through and see if I can find a shot I noticed the problem though.


I am starting to form a general understanding of how it all comes together. I Just need lots more practice. So it is just something that with practice you have an idea of what settings to use, then use your meter to be sure? Unless of course you are purposely trying to over or under expose.

[Henry Wilt]

You will certainly be able to change your metering mode on your camera, it's on page 83 of my manual although I have the T1i. (Look up metering mode in the contents at the back of the manual)

[nursemandalyn]

Maybe I am misunderstanding what my manual is saying about metering. I looked up before how to change the way it is metering, and it says it is automatic in the different modes. This is straight from my manual

Partial Metering:
This is set automatically during AE lock in the creative zone modes

Centerweighted average metering:
This is set automatically in the M mode

I can't find anywhere in the manual that explains how to change it. To me automatic means I can't?


Just read another area, it says that in creative zone modes, partial metering will be used automatically for AE lock

[Henry Wilt]

Which model of Rebel do you have?

[macromike]

Learn how to read your histogram then use exposure compensation...

[jojonac]

no matter what mode of metering you are using on your camera, the in camera meter is trying to meter everything for 18% grey. So depending on what you are shooting your camera may think the scene is over or under exposed. you can usually get it close with the camera, but the next step is to look at the histogram. If the histogram is chopped off on the right side then you are overexposed, if it is chopped off on the left side then you are underexposed. Generally speaking.

[KansaiGreenie]

Hi nursemandalyn,

My question is, as far as working with getting a proper exposure, do you start to learn what settings work best under what conditions? Or is it more relying on a metering device, be it internal or external? Combination of both?

Back when I was in photo school, our instructors had us memorizing exposure rules (like sunny 16) and calculating alternative exposures based on them. I've found that to be a useful skill, but I wouldn't start there. I don't think that you need to do that anymore, because the good news about digital imaging is that you get instant feedback on your exposure in the form of the preview image and the histogram.

Here is how I take a photograph:

First, I look at the scene and decide what my subject and framing are going to be. What is it that I want to communicate with the image that I'm about to make? Next, based step one, I chose an aperture. How much depth of field do I want? Does it matter? Third, I'll chose an ISO based on the shooting conditions. Bright and sunny? Dark and dim? Next, if the camera is in Av mode then the camera has suggested a shutter speed or if I'm in manual then I will rotate the shutter speed dial until the internal meter says that I am 'correctly' exposed. I double check to make sure that shutter speed is fast enough to avoid camera shake (if not adjust the ISO) and then take a picture. Finally, I check the back of the camera (preview image and histogram) to see where I am and adjust accordingly. (If I need to).

So, in answer to your question: I rely on the internal light meter and the preview image/histogram, but also my experience. I guess I use a "combination of both" the light meter and settings based on conditions. These days I rarely think about exposure in terms of getting an image, but more in terms of how does the exposure help me communicate the scene. But that's just me. I have friends who hate the light meter and calculate exposure solely on rules that they memorized. I have other friends who live and die by their light meter.

I think that there isn't a right or wrong way to make a photograph. How one makes a photograph is a personal process that varies by photographer just like subjects, styles, genres, etc. vary by photographer. What you need to do is find a way to make photographs that is comfortable to you.

I do plan on picking up a book on exposure soon I hope.

A very, very good book on the subject, although I haven't read the latest edition, is: Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson That book has helped a lot of photographers and I'm sure that you'll find it useful.

Sorry for the long response.

KG