Spot Metering on the Canon 400D

[Jonny1973]

I was considering getting my first D-SLR tomorrow (Canon 400D) but whilst looking at a few reviews today, I noticed that it doesn't do spot metering.

Is this a major problem? Even my Sony DSC-P200 has it so why doesn't this digital SLR?

I've sometimes used spot metering on the Sony on overcast days but it completely blows out the sky, so I'm not sure how useful it is.

[kavster]

You still have partial metering, which I believe is 9%.

Spot metering is 3%.

I think you'll be fine with partial, you only get spot metering with the 20d/30d and above.

Kav

[mr jones]

20D doesnt have spot metering either

[Kobus]

You wont miss it.

My cellphone also has it, can you believe.

Anyway, please make sure the camera feels good in your hand compared to the others.

Kobus

[senu]

Originally Posted by mr jones

20D doesnt have spot metering either

The 30D does and..... Ive never used it before
The 350d doesnt and Im nonethewiser

[Jonny1973]

Cheers fellas.

So I won't let the lack of spot metering put me off when I call into Jessops tomorrow.

[Jazz Monkey Jr]

If you can, try it with the hadngrip aswell, it takes 2 batteries and gives the camera a better feel.

[senu]

Originally Posted by Jonny1973

Cheers fellas.

So I won't let the lack of spot metering put me off when I call into Jessops tomorrow.

Dont
As has been stated above, the Canon 20D is an amazing photographic tool which doesnt have it
Spot metering as useful as it can be for subjects with varying lighting ( as such mixed exposure pattern) can be "faked" in a 400D (and 350D) by zooming to the "spot" on the image, locking exposure (in all the creative modes) and then recomposing or zooming out.

This Auto Exposure lock is a bit like focus lock.
Just like spot metering, it cannot be used in all images and is not always possible if zooming or getting close to subject is impracticable

Cameras like the Canon 350D, 400D, Nikon D50 type are loaded with features most of us never use. Most of us cant be bothered to

Essentially whatever feature that seems misssing in any often has a workaround.

For image quality they are very close indeed and while build quality is relatively objective, actual feel is subjective so go to Jessops with an open mind knowing you cant go wrong whatever you buy

Good luck

[JohnG]

I agree with the others, I had spot metering on my old Canon T90 many years ago and used it a few times and it was a total disaster. I think it could be valuable in expert hands but I never used it again and wouldn't miss it !