Does metering matter in modern day cameras?

4 years 3 months ago #668541 by Mark T
For example if you are shooting in manual mode and have control over aperture, shutter speed and ISO, does metering really matter?  Especially with mirrorless cameras where you are seeing exposure changes in real time?


Photo Comments
,
4 years 3 months ago #668542 by Nikon Shooter
Many will propose that, with digital photography, metering
is no longer needed because the results may be seen right
away on the back screen as you say and the onboard meter
is quite enough.

Though I use it way less than in film times but I still use it in
studio mainly.

Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
,
4 years 3 months ago #668545 by Mark T
So it is kind of obsolete then


Photo Comments
,
4 years 3 months ago #668546 by Nikon Shooter
Not at all! It went from an imperative tool to a most
useful accessory… depending on the way one works.

Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
,
4 years 3 months ago #668552 by garyrhook
When you say "metering" what do you mean?

The camera has a meter, and one can use that to figure out suitable values for aperture/SS/ISO. That's no different than using a handheld light meter.

And if you're working with artificial light, you can experiment, or you can meter (or both).

Given the immediate feedback that a digital display allows, things are easier to dial in. And managing challenging situations (e.g. strong backlighting) becomes much more doable.

So, no, not obsolete.


Photo Comments
,
4 years 3 months ago #668554 by Ozzie_Traveller
G'day Mark

A good metering system in your camera is the equivalent to having good brakes in your car ... no brakes and you easily go out of control

For any camera (incl phone's here too) to provide you with a 'good' photo with 'good' brightness etc. requires that the camera has some method of analysing the bright bits + the dark bits + a few other bits and putting it all together into an exposure method comprising a 'click' of the shutter and a few other things all at the same time

Whether you are operating in Manual mode or Auto mode - matters not, except that Auto mode is under control of the metering system, whereas in Manual mode ~ unless you have years of experience behind you ~ means that without a good metering system in front of you you are guessing 99% of the time and living in hope that you get it right

Even in Manual mode and when you look at the little exposure scale shown in the EVF or viewfinder or LCD back panel elsewise, you are looking at the exposure system in operation. If it were not there, would you have any hope of "getting it right"?

Hope this helps
Phil from the great land Downunder
www.flickr.com/photos/ozzie_traveller/sets/

Phil from the great land Downunder
www.flickr.com/photos/ozzie_traveller/sets/

The following user(s) said Thank You: KCook
,
4 years 3 months ago #668661 by MYoung
Well yeah it does, how else would you know what is correct exposure.  Sure you can gauge what looks best for you.  But does that guarantee perfect exposure each time?


Photo Comments
,
4 years 3 months ago #669380 by Tristan R
+1

Why wouldn't it?  Something needs to tell you where correct exposure is.  


Photo Comments
,
4 years 3 months ago #670824 by KCook
As Gary already asked, exactly what do you have in mind for the term "metering"? I very rarely bother with handheld meters anymore. But I use the camera's meter for most shots. The exception is shooting in manual mode under constant lighting. Then I will meter the initial shot, motor ahead with the rest of the batch without checking the meter each time.

I regard the usual "exposure preview" in the LCD (or EVF for a mirrorless) feature as utter bunk. I would never trust just my eyeball and a wonky LCD as a light meter. I do use the LCD, a lot. But every time I'm using the histogram displayed on the LCD, not trying to eyeball the brightness.

Kelly

Canon 50D, Olympus PL2
kellycook.zenfolio.com/

,
4 years 2 months ago #671195 by Miss Polly
Honestly, you still need a properly exposed photo.  So while carrying around a meter doesn't fit my style of shooting.  Allowing the camera to meter for correct exposure still is important.


Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024

The Canon 1DX Mark III is a big, burly professional camera packed with top-end features. Is it worth the investment in 2024? Find out in this detailed review!

Mar 04, 2024

In the OM-1 vs OM-5 debate, which camera comes out on top? Though they’re different cameras for different purposes, comparing them head to head clarifies which is best for your needs.

Mar 01, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Time management is a critical skill to master when you’re a photographer. But how do you get the most out of the limited time you have? Check out this guide to learn a few tricks!

Mar 27, 2024

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

Opening a photography business means undertaking various photography marketing strategies to promote your work. But you don’t want to do the same old thing - try these unique ideas!

Mar 22, 2024

The Canon EOS 80D might be a few years old, but it’s nevertheless a quality camera to invest in as a beginner or enthusiast looking for a mid-range DSLR with tons of lens options.

Mar 22, 2024

Wedding consultations are a critical part of a wedding photography gig. It’s when you learn about the couple and their wants, and present them with how you will meet those desires.

Mar 22, 2024

If you're looking for the best metal print of 2023, you'll find it from Artbeat Studios. After months of testing, Artbeat Studios beat out the competition!

Mar 21, 2024

Getting the best video shots on your camera or smartphone requires you to understand the fundamentals of composition and video editing. It helps to have the appropriate gear, too!

Mar 20, 2024

It’s easy to lose your inspiration behind the lens, especially as a beginner. These creative photography projects can help inspire you to try new techniques and improve your photos.

Mar 20, 2024