DSLR Basics: Metering Mode

DSLR Basics: Metering Mode

Metering Mode: How the camera measures the brightness of a subject


Metering settings work by assessing the amount of light available for a photograph, and then adjusting the exposure accordingly. Sometimes, when using Program, Shutter Priority, or Aperture Priority, the camera isn’t intuitive enough to get the exposure right. Fortunately, most DSLRs have the ability to make manual adjustments to the metering mode used by the camera.  If you know which mode to choose in a particular lighting situation, you’ll have a good chance of getting a perfect exposure. Remember that not ever DSLR with have each of the metering modes we discuss. And some might not be available in video mode. (Refer to your individual owner’s manual to learn how to change the settings on your camera.)

Camera uses the light information coming from the
blue areas to determine exposure

Evaluative Metering 

This is also known as multi-segment metering or matrix metering. This is the "default" on most cameras. Evaluative Metering is a metering system that interprets simultaneous readings from multiple areas in the frame to determine the correct exposure. 

When would I use this mode? This mode is suited for quick shooting when you need to get a light reading on an entire scene and set the exposure in a hurry. Or, it is good to use when there’s a lot of contrast between light and shadow in a scene.

Photo Example:

Video Example: 

Hdr skies from Tanguy Louvigny on Vimeo.


Center-Weighted Average Metering

Camera uses the light information coming from the
blue areas to determine exposure

Center-weighted average metering means exactly what the name says, it gives special emphasis to the center of the frame. But, it also takes the surrounding area into consideration.
When would I use this mode? Use this mode when your subject is in the center of the frame and correctly exposed. It is also a good mode to select when you want to capture a brightly lit subject and be sure it’s exposed correctly compared with the surrounding areas. Remember that this type of metering does not attempt to identify and correct situations like backlighting.
Photo Example:

Video Example:

Spot Metering

Camera uses the light information coming from the
blue areas to determine exposure

Spot metering measures only a small area in the center of the frame. This area is usually only 2 or 3% of the entire area. Therefore, remember this is a challenging metering mode to use because you really have to pay attention to what it is exactly measuring and interpret the brightness.

When would I use this mode? Use this mode when your subject is in the center of your frame or when you want to use the center of your frame to determine your exposure. Remember that the size of the spot metering will vary from camera to camera. The Professional DSLRs typically have a smaller spot meter than the entry-level DSLRs.

Photo Example:

Video Example: