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.

 

[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?

 

[NorthstaNder]

Yep, my S6500fd has spot metering.

 

[NorthstaNder]

Thanks for the (sensible) reply 33L