[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.

[midtones]

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

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 !

[jonneymendoza]

Just to let you know their is a hack for this now Canon Digital Photography Forums - View Single Post - Firmware hack Rebel XTi /400D enables ISO 3200, Spot metering!

[weetsie]

^ beat me to it, but the 400D does have a true spot metering, only problem is that the spot is not visable in the VF.

however, i use spot metering about 50% of the time and i would'nt be too bothered if my camera didnt have a marking for the spot metering in the VF.

[senu]

I hardly ever use it , and my cameras do feature it specifically
My reasoning is that if wrongly used you get far worse results.
In short user error!

[jonneymendoza]

What does spot matering do?

[Jonny1973]

You do all realise this is a thread I started in October 2006?

I bought the 400D which I ebayed it after a year and currently have a 450D. I do use spot metering (with exposure lock) when the sky fools the meter in evaluative mode.

[senu]

Originally Posted by Jonny1973

You do all realise this is a thread I started in October 2006?

Yep as threads go , definitely an OAP
But for anyone with a 400D who want spot metering maybe a little nudge to get the hack

I bought the 400D which I ebayed it after a year and currently have a 450D. I do use spot metering (with exposure lock) when the sky fools the meter in evaluative mode.

Useful when you know how. Interestingly the 1000D still doesnt have it, Canon are making the point of the 450 and 500D being high end entry level or entry level midrange cameras Midrange being (40, 50 and 7D and indeed 5D Mk 1 and 2 although they are FF and may be described as Semi Pro by some)
It is handy but not IMHO a " must have"