If you haven't done so already go and watch metering modes pt1 which explains the importance of 'mid grey' before watching this video

Your camera will probably have three metering modes, spot, centre weighted and evaluative. Each of them will work better in some situations that others - but what are they?

Auto exposure is very accurate, but your camera can't know which areas of the image you want to expose for so it's up yo you to tell it which metering mode to use.

Look at these pictures, the top one was taken using centre weighted metering mode and the camera has averaged the exposure around the centre. But the part of the picture I particularly wanted correct is too dark.

In the second shot I used spot metering mode and told the camera exactly where I wanted to set the exposure for and the results speak for themselves.

When you can use your metering modes effectively you'll not only be more satisfied with your photography - you'll save lots of time because you won't have to spend so long on the computer.

• I Mess Up Salsibury Catherdral Photo Shoot - EP31
• Photographing A Landscape Landmark PT2 - EP30
• Photographing A Landscape Landmark PT1 - EP29
• Exposure Bracketing Explained - EP28
• Woodland Photography with Gary Gough - EP27