Metering Modes for Portraits

Choosing the right metering mode depends on the environment you are shooting in. (For more information on how metering works, see the “Metering Basics” sidebar.)

For most portrait situations, the Evaluative metering mode is ideal. This mode measures light from all portions of the viewfinder and then determines a proper exposure for the scene. However, you might run into situations where the background of your scene is much darker or lighter than your subject, which could trick the Evaluative metering mode into giving you an incorrect exposure. In these situations, you will want to use the Partial or Spot metering mode, which will meter a portion of the center of the frame (Figure 5.7). Don’t forget to review your images so you can make any necessary adjustments.

Figure 5.7. The shaded circle in the center represents the area metered by the Partial metering mode.

Selecting a Metering Mode

1. Press the Q button on the back of the camera to bring up the Quick Control screen, and then use the Multi-Controller to select the Metering Mode icon (A).

2. Press the Set button and then choose a metering mode (B).

3. You can also change this setting on the LCD panel on the top of the camera: Press the Metering Mode Selection button (C), and use the Main dial to scroll through the settings.