Matrix Metering and the Focus Point

 

There is one detail in matrix metering of the exposure that you need to be aware of. The idea of matrix metering is to take the whole image into account. This should prevent blown out highlights, but not to an extend that the main area becomes too dark. The details vary from camera to camera. But the idea is to get an exposure that most likely works.

It is reasonable to use the focus point to judge what area should not be too dark, at the cost of overexposing some other areas. At least on my Nikon Z5, matrix metering will indeed take in account the focus point. This feature will already be active if a focus point is set or the track rectangle is active, even without actually focusing. But in the auto area mode, it will activate only happen after the focus has been established.

This behavior makes matrix metering a sophisticated version of center based or spot metering, which both also use the focus point.

Most of the time, there won't be a problem, especially when shooting in RAW. The exposure will be almost right, and can be fixed in post processing. Out-of-Camera shooters need to be careful, however, and cannot let the camera do what it likes. There are three ways to fix the problem.

• After focusing, check the exposure on the screen or with the histogram. If it is wrong, apply exposure correction. On the Nikon Z cameras, you can set the other dial to do this, and you can even reset the correction automatically when the camera is toggled off and on.
• Set exposure lock to a button. In special light situations, expose and fix the exposure with this button. On many cameras, you can set it either to hold the exposure while you press the button, or to fix it until you press the button once more.
• Use manual exposure. This is often a very good solution, especially when you shoot more than picture in the same light and you have enough time. 

Have fun!