On Tue, 03 Nov 1998 08:12:07 -0600, Andrew Solberg wrote:

>After using a manual focus Canon TLb for 25 years, I recently purchased
>a Canon Elan IIe. As I understand it, the older cameras used center
>weighted metering. The Elan has the choice of Evaluative, Center
>Weighted, or Zone (or some other term-I don't have the manual handy)
>metering. The default is Evaluative metering.
>
>After 25 years, center weighted metering was very predictable for me.
>As I work with the new camera, I can see that evaluative metering is
>somewhat different, though I haven't yet shot enough film (slides) to be
>able to articulate what it is. I have the Magic Lantern guide, so I
>know what the theoretical difference is between the old and new metering
>approaches.
>
>Can anyone explain what practical differences one can expect (less
>contrast? more even metering throughout the frame? simulating spot
>metering plus half a stop? I don't know.)? What are the real
>advantages? Are there any hints I should know about?

Hmmm, it is my not-so-humble-opinion that "evaluative"
metering is basically "roll-o'-th'-dice" metering...
It generally does a "when-in-doubt-boost-the-exposure"
alteration of the exposure compared with straight
(reliable, predictable...) metering types - which can
be OK with color negative materials, but sometimes not
with slides... Instead of trying to learn the ways the
evaluative metering changes the exposure under various
conditions compared with more direct readings, I prefer
a metering approach which provides a straight reading of
what is within the metered area, and therefore provides
a reading upon which I can intelligently base exposure
compensations, when needed. I turn off Matrix metering,
and other useless auto glop...! ;-)

Hey, those in US - VOTE TUESDAY November 3rd! (Today!)
(Maybe we can quiet that Re-Bublican yapping and nipping
at the heels of Clinton, and maybe get a "do-something"
Congress in the bargain! ;-)