I was wondering what metering mode is the best for shooting people and objects..etc? My camera has Evaluative, Partial, and Center-Weighted Average metering.

What do they mean? What does what? Any advantages for say..shooting action?

Thanks guys

 

I don't think it has as much to do with the subject as the conditions in which you are shooting and your intended composition. I'm still trying to figure it all out too. I just try not to blow out any highlights and roll with it.

 

Haha I feel you.

Well can you answer this? What does spot metering do?

 

Spot metering is found on the 1D series Canon cameras (if we're just talking about Canon systems here). It meters 3% of the image area around your focus point. I think the _ _ D cameras go down to 7%.

 

I see. So pretty much you're on spot metering 100% of the time?

 

I use it about 95% of the time. I typically take a reflective metering of two spots in the frame and try to find a nice balance. However, that is tough to do when you've got a shot you can't take your time on.

 

Spot is the way to go...I don't find myself needing anything else.

 

I use evaluative most of the time.

 

I've been on partial for a few months..lol

 

400/XTi has no spot meter, either does the 20D

Canons spot meters are roughly 3.5% - 3.8% of the center.

I determine which meter to use based on lighting. I use spot meter most of the time.