What is spot metering and what is it used for?

Spot metering is a metering mode that only measures the brightness in the range of 2% to 3% of the picture, and uses this brightness value as the only basis for exposure. Of course, in many cases, this small range is used to test the brightness of objects that are not located in the center of the screen. When shooting subjects with strong contrast between light and dark and uneven light and dark areas, photographers can use such a small range in the center of the screen. It measures the brightness of a certain part of the subject or other parts without being affected by a large area of ??strong light background or dark background. Spot metering is a very practical function in landscape and portrait photography, which allows Photographers make accurate exposures in complex light scenes.

Although spot metering is a useful tool, not every DSLR has built-in spot metering. Some entry-level cameras only have center-weighted metering. In this case, We can use an additional light meter or use a long-distance lens to narrow the metering range.