RE: Sunny 16

[P3D <dlevy@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Not being a Stereo shooter, but having an interest in it, I've been
monitoring this group for a short time.

Your discussion re the sunny 16 rule is interesting, since it relates to ALL
photography. When I teach basic photography, I require the students to
remove their batteries from the cameras or shut off their meters. (I have a
small supply of mechanical cameras as loaners if needed). I then teach the
rule and require them to learn to evaluate light.

The rule is based upon the light shining upon the subject and therefore is
evaluated in the same manner as incident light is measured rather than
reflected light.  

In class, the students are permitted to load up the meters only after they
have mastered the rule. More than several thereafter have not been as
accurate with a meter in establishing ev as when they use the rule. 

I use both incident and relective metering depending upon how I shoot.
Since I do use the zone system, reflective readings give me certain
information which either the rule or incident reading will not. Part of
learning how to meter is important. Using an incamera meter whether
averaging or spot is more difficult to obtain useful information (rather
than 'correct' readings) generally because users 1) don't know exactly what
is being read, 2) what the metering pattern and weighting characteristics
are and 3) do not know the calibration of the meter in the body. #3) is
important because unlike most hand held meters which are presumed to be used
by competent persons, camera meters are less likely to be uniformly
calibrated from the factory because of qc methods AND many are set to read
zone vi rather then zone v. This variance is from what I understand that the
companies belive that we tend to photograph people and therefore the meter
is calibrated to expose caucasion skin without ei adjustment.

Conclusion: the rule is a great starting point and very usable in instances
where incident readings will work, but when reflective readings are more
appropriate really can only be used to maybe look at the zone v reading;
Don't belittle meters, but understand each types limitations and how it was
intended to be used. 
Brian Levy, J.D.
Toronto, Ont.
dlevy@xxxxxxxxxx


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