Metering mode
way in which a camera determines exposure
In photography, the metering mode refers to the way in which a camera determines exposure. Cameras generally allow the user to select between spot, center-weighted average, or multi-zone metering modes. The different metering modes allow the user to select the most appropriate one for use in a variety of lighting conditions. In complex light situations professional photographers tend to switch to manual mode, rather than depending on a setting determined by the camera.
Examples of metering modes
Spot metering
With spot metering, the camera will measure only a very small area of the scene (1–5% of the viewfinder area). By default this is the centre of the scene. The user can select a different off-centre spot or recompose by moving the camera after metering.
Certain models support a mode which allows averaging of multiple spot meter readings, and some support metering of highlight and shadow areas.
Spot metering is not influenced by other areas in the frame. It is commonly used to shoot very high contrast scenes.
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