How to properly use the rebel xt light meter

[rxl125]

How do you use it properly. Right now I use the creative modes and set the aperture I want based on the little I know (wide open ='s blurred background vs. closed ap ='s sharper picture). I use the AV mode and the M mode the most.

I then adjust the shutter speed to get it in the middle of the balance on the LCD and viewfinder. Am I doing this right? Is there anything else to it.

I feel dumb asking this.

Of course I'm focusing on my subject with the button pressed halfway down.

Is there a web site for approx. aperture settings for various situations?

 

[NickElls]

Try this.

 

[Mike Teezie]

Sounds like you have it about right to me.

For situations where the light is pretty constant, I shoot in Manual. When the light is changing a good deal, I switch over to Aperture Priority, and let the camera do the thinking.

Canon cameras seem to underexpose by about 1/3 of a stop. Unless the light is very harsh, I'll push the exposure 1/3 to 2/3 of a stop a lot of the time.