How to get Exposure right for YOU.....

In this video, I'm diving into the practical use of exposure compensation in semi-automatic modes, specifically using a Canon 400D. If you're looking to gain more control over your images without fully switching to manual mode, exposure compensation is an invaluable tool. I'll walk you through how I use this feature to adjust for challenging lighting situations, demonstrating with a series of test shots.
First, I focus on a row of white cottages. I start by intentionally under-exposing the shot by one stop, which results in the cottage walls appearing darker and revealing more detail in the shadows. Then, I over-expose by one stop, and you'll see how the walls become brighter and closer to pure white, losing some of that shadow detail but gaining a cleaner, more luminous look.
Next, I switch things up and take two photos of a black door, this time applying the opposite exposure compensation settings. Under-exposing the black door makes the image darker, rendering the door a deeper, richer black while retaining some shadow detail. Conversely, over-exposing by one stop lightens the door, giving it a more washed-out appearance and reducing contrast.
Throughout the video, I emphasize how small adjustments in exposure compensation can dramatically alter the final image. Whether you're dealing with bright whites or deep blacks, understanding how to use this feature can help you achieve the desired look and feel of your photographs, all without needing to go fully manual. Join me as I explore the creative possibilities that exposure compensation offers, enhancing both the light and dark elements in your images.
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[@alanlee2751]

Thanks for making this video. I completely agree with your views on there being no standard, ‘right’ exposure , when we all have different expectations from our images. Keep up the good work and advice. 👍

[@MyPhotoJourney]

Brilliant, thanks a lot for watching it, and for your super comment 👍

[@srancher6574]

There is not a single moment when I'm not using exposure compensation in aperture priority mode. I find it very useful when the camera's suggestion for the right exposure isn't necessarily correct (90% of the time), and yes, there isn't a right exposure for everyone, we all have different preferences and we are all looking for a different effect etc.

[@MyPhotoJourney]

What an awesome comment, thanks, and I'm the same when I'm in Aperture priority, perhaps too much. Thanks a lot for watching and commenting 👍