Erich - very well explained and very helpful. Thank you so much!
One thing that might help, as I get a lot of similar exposures where I live (Boise, ID high desert) is to use spot or centerweighted instead of matrix.
Here is my MO.
I set the metering to spot, and aim the 'spot' to the brightest or near the brightest area. (i.e. I go for expose for highlights). While doing so I check what combination I need to properly expose the bright area. (using teh camera/spotmeter as a directional light meter basically) I set those settings to the D70 in manual mode, re-compose and take the shot after which I check the histogram. I personally don't mind some blown out little spots, but avoid big blown out area's. (unless on purpose in hi-key).
FWIW,
XO,
You can't depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus. Mark Twain
Comments
Here is my MO.
I set the metering to spot, and aim the 'spot' to the brightest or near the brightest area. (i.e. I go for expose for highlights). While doing so I check what combination I need to properly expose the bright area. (using teh camera/spotmeter as a directional light meter basically) I set those settings to the D70 in manual mode, re-compose and take the shot after which I check the histogram. I personally don't mind some blown out little spots, but avoid big blown out area's. (unless on purpose in hi-key).
FWIW,
XO,
Mark Twain
Some times I get lucky and when that happens I show the results here: http://www.xo-studios.com