Understanding the histogram?

[Kamera RAWr]

I just want to start off by stating what others already have, the MR forum search leaves a heck of a lot to be desired. Or perhaps I just don't know how to use it properly. Anyway, I read a bit here and there in different threads about evaluating a pictures' exposure via the histogram or at least that impression of what it says. Could the experienced of you out there help me understand it a little better than my meager understanding? I'm sure others would benefit as well. BTW, if there's already been a thread on this, you can just ignore this one and send me a link

 

[Abstract]

What do you mean? The left side of the histogram is completely black, the far right is white.

As to how a histogram should look: That depends on what you're photographing. Look at what you're photographing, and ask yourself what the exposure should be? If there are lots of things in a photo that should be white or brightly exposed, then there's going to be a lot of pixels on the right.

If you're taking a photo of something dark, and you're hoping to get a silhouette of a person or something, then expect a lot of "black" photos.

 

[Kamera RAWr]

Thanks, even that little bit there gives a little more knowledge. I appreciate your feed back . I thought this thread was dead and no one would respond. Thanks again.

 

[Westside guy]

Tutorials from "Cambridge in Colour":

http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/histograms1.htm
http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/histograms2.htm

 

[Kamera RAWr]

Been to that site before, but never saw that tutorial. They help even more

 

[andym172]

Stick to this, and you can't go far wrong: http://www.luminous-landscape.com/tutorials/expose-right.shtml

 

[spyderracer393]

give this a try too...

http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/histograms.htm

 

[sblasl]

And another...

http://www.bythom.com/histogram.htm

 

[Kamera RAWr]

Thank you all so much. I've learned much more about histrograms thanks to your advice and links