A typical camera has about three to four different metering modes in it. In a previous discussion, I have detailed each of these modes. In this discussion, we’ll look at the scenarios under which each mode is useful.
Evaluative metering
In evaluative metering, the camera takes into account the whole of the scene in question. Almost the whole of it. In a scene like this, the camera tries to average the brightness reading of the scene and gives you an exposure that does the best job of retaining details across the frame. Evaluative metering is ideal when the scene has wide brightness fluctuations and dark scenes.
Evaluative metering is also advantageous when the subject is moving fast, and you don’t have the option to merge a spot metering or even a center-weighted metering with that of the subject. If the subject is moving fast, you can consider the whole of the frame so that the subject is also adequately metered.
Partial metering
There may be a scene where the subject is more important than the rest of the scene and the background. In a scene like this, you need to emphasize the subject, which may be occupying a small part of the frame. The best metering mode in such a situation is Partial metering or Spot metering. I have discussed spot metering below. Let’s find out how partial metering works.
In partial metering, the metering mode considers an area larger than that occupied by the Spot metering. It’s ideal for scenes where the subject occupies a slightly larger space than that covered by Spot metering.
Spot metering
Spot metering takes into account a small part of the center of the image, only 2-3% of the frame. In some cameras, 2-3% could be the area around the focusing point and not necessarily at the center of the frame. Spot metering also works when the subject is extensive, occupies a large chunk of the scene, and is homogenous in color. Such as an elephant that occupies a large chunk of the frame. You can use Spot metering in such a situation, and your camera will return the proper exposure indication.
Center-weighted metering
In this case, the whole scene is considered, but the center of the frame is given a tag with more importance. This metering mode is ideally suitable when the center of the frame is essential. Still, it would help if you also considered whatever is in the background and the foreground.
For example, if you’re photographing a bird and it’s very dark, plus the background is bright, using center weight considers the whole of the frame but puts more emphasis on what’s in the center of the frame so that it’s properly exposed.