Taking meter readings using a bridge camera

[NorthstaNder]

Just an example...If I wanted to take a portrait shot in difficult lighting conditions, for example side or back lit could I use the following method to get the correct exposure (in the absence of a lightmeter)...

With the camera in aperture priority, zoom in on my subjects face and fill the frame, then half press the shutter release button to take the reading. Make a mental note of the shutter speed/aperture size.

Then switch to manual mode, select the shutter speed and aperture size, compose shot and then shoot.

 

[Johnny|lucidcomposure]

Then you'd have a shot (assuming composure and light haven't changed) the exaxt same shot as in AV.

Unless your light is dramatically changing you might aswel keep it in AV since you can under/over compensate about 2 stops anyway

 

[NorthstaNder]

Ah, yes. See what you mean.

Wouldn't zooming right in to get the reading make any difference then, or are modern cameras accurate enough to take readings from small areas?

 

[xolotl]

Ah, yes. See what you mean.

Wouldn't zooming right in to get the reading make any difference then, or are modern cameras accurate enough to take readings from small areas?

Only if they have a spot meter.

*Hugs 30D*

 

[NorthstaNder]

Yep, my S6500fd has spot metering.

 

[D.P.]

Only if they have a spot meter.

*Hugs 30D*

Hugs D70

 

[33L]

what i did with my 6500 before it got nicked was try and get a reading of the subject and a seperate of the backround. Find the middle of the 2 and you should find your backgrounds are not blown out and your subjects are 2 dark or visa versa.

You can always take a few while adjusting to get the right balance.

 

[divine`]

Hugs D70

*hugs D70 and K800i*

 

[NorthstaNder]

Thanks for the (sensible) reply 33L

 

[33L]

any time bud