Nikon D780 Reference Manual page 213

Option
[Spot
N
metering]
[Highlight-
t
weighted
metering]
The camera meters a circle 4 mm (0.16 in.) in
diameter (approximately 1.5% of the frame). The
circle is centered on the current focus point,
making it possible to meter off-center subjects (the
camera will meter the center focus point if a
non-CPU lens or an AF-S Fisheye NIKKOR 8–15mm
f/3.5–4.5E ED lens is attached or if [Auto-area AF] is
in effect; 0 145). Spot metering ensures that the
subject will be correctly exposed, even when the
background is much brighter or darker.
The camera assigns the greatest weight to
highlights. Use to reduce loss of detail in highlights,
for example when photographing spotlit
performers on stage.
Description
Shooting Settings
167