So Which Metering System Should You Use - Nikon D300 Complete Manual

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The Viewfinder display shows the metering method icon for

your current selection as a reminder:

So Which Metering System Should You Use?

Short answer: matrix for most situations; center-weighted for

backlit subjects in very bright light (snow, sand, etc.).

Given that matrix metering is accurate most of the time and

that the other methods require some knowledge of exposure

and how to set it accurately, ask yourself whether or not you

have enough knowledge to do a better, more consistent job

than the matrix metering system is producing. I see three

instances where this is likely:

Very high contrast and bright scenes. The matrix metering

pattern sometimes has problems with very bright scenes

with a great deal of contrast in them. Part of this is that the

matrix meter itself has a brightness limit of 17.3EV. The

other part is that the matrix does try to keep from blowing

out highlight detail.

You're using Single Point autofocus. As noted earlier, the

matrix system tends to overemphasize the value it sees

under the current autofocus sensor if you're in Single

Point autofocus. Thus, if you focus on something darker or

brighter than a middle tone, the exposure may be off.

Thom Hogan's Complete Guide to the Nikon D300