Metering: An Introduction

A start to metering is to know how to adjust the exposure on your camera (DSLR, smartphone or mirrorless). By place the metering in the 'middle' - this is sometimes what is called a 'happy meter'. However, this does not ensure a well-captured image. For example, in an image where most of the frame is dark and only part is lighter - the lighter part may get 'blown out' with 'happy metering'. So then, the best capture may result with 'unhappy metering'. In the above scenario, this may be done by lowering the exposure as much as is needed. At Riverwood Church Community, this sometimes needs to be done when capturing baptisms (where much of the frame is darker).

For further reading: Understanding Metering Mode on Your Camera (Adobe)