Metering Modes

Metering modes are camera settings that determine how light is measured to calculate exposure.

Metering modes are camera settings that determine how light is measured to calculate exposure.

Feb 2, 2026

Feb 2, 2026

Overview

Metering modes control how a camera evaluates brightness within a scene to determine exposure settings. Different modes prioritize different parts of the frame.

Types

Common modes include evaluative (matrix), center-weighted, and spot metering. Evaluative analyzes the whole frame, center-weighted prioritizes the middle, and spot metering measures a small area.

Use Cases

Photographers choose metering modes based on lighting conditions and subject placement. For example, spot metering is useful when a subject is strongly backlit.

Professional Insight

Mastering metering allows photographers to maintain consistent exposure even in difficult lighting situations.

Overview

Metering modes control how a camera evaluates brightness within a scene to determine exposure settings. Different modes prioritize different parts of the frame.

Types

Common modes include evaluative (matrix), center-weighted, and spot metering. Evaluative analyzes the whole frame, center-weighted prioritizes the middle, and spot metering measures a small area.

Use Cases

Photographers choose metering modes based on lighting conditions and subject placement. For example, spot metering is useful when a subject is strongly backlit.

Professional Insight

Mastering metering allows photographers to maintain consistent exposure even in difficult lighting situations.

Overview

Metering modes control how a camera evaluates brightness within a scene to determine exposure settings. Different modes prioritize different parts of the frame.

Types

Common modes include evaluative (matrix), center-weighted, and spot metering. Evaluative analyzes the whole frame, center-weighted prioritizes the middle, and spot metering measures a small area.

Use Cases

Photographers choose metering modes based on lighting conditions and subject placement. For example, spot metering is useful when a subject is strongly backlit.

Professional Insight

Mastering metering allows photographers to maintain consistent exposure even in difficult lighting situations.

Metering modes determine how your camera reads light and calculates exposure.

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Creative Pass keeps everything you need right in your pocket—ready when creativity strikes.

Creative Pass keeps everything you need right in your pocket—ready when creativity strikes.