> ...the most definitive place I have seen this is in the > promotional brochure that Pentax sent me for the PZ-1p. I was > amazed to see Pentax acknowledge this. It was also discussed on > the list 2 or 3 years ago.
How far do the list achieves go back? Any chance you could make a pdf file of this literature?
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Okay, from the PZ-1p brochure that Pentax sent me. Everyone please file this, or add it to the FAQ. Although program metering has changed with different models, I would guess that the basic objective remains the same -- to get facial details on backlit family members.
"In the multi-pattern metering mode, the PZ-1p measures the light reaching the eight sensors of the control IC and determines the most appropriate metering pattern for the situation.
"This mode is designed to place priority on shadow areas: Under normal lighting, it takes into account shadowy spots away from the central area; In (sic) backlighting, it assumes that the main subject is in shadow and gives more exposure to the darker central area after calculating the proper amount of exposure compensation from the distance to the subject."
In ERN's photo, the program metering treated her tree shadow as a backlit primary subject and exposed it perfectly. But that wasn't what she wanted.
I don't know what the effect is if you decouple AF point and program AE. Perhaps it helps. Remember, color negative film tolerates overexposure and highlights well (although many color print papers do not). Slide film and digital do not.
Joe
