Preview Exp in M Mode Question

[Starkman]

Hey all,

 

Not sure here, with my X-T10, what exactly the Preview Exposure in Manual Mode setting does. I mean, if I have the camera in full auto and shoot, I see the exposure both in the EVF and the screen whether the Preview Exposure setting is on or off.

 

I do know that it needs to be off when using a flash, but I don't understand its use otherwise.

 

Thanks much,

 

Starkman

[Tikcus]

I use it when shooting in studio, as it is a lot darker normally (in the studio), as you are using flash and with preview exposure on all you see is a black screen, with preview exposure off it allows you to compose your shot better.

Use a light meter to test settings or just take some test shots

 

But in normal use for all none studio work i have it switched on so I can see photos before i press button

 

regards

 

Andrew

[dfaye]

Hi, just to add a couple of comments: Firstly, you will only see the effect of this setting if all your exposure parameters are on manual settings (for example ISO on 200, aperture on f8 and shutter on 125). Then your EVF and LCD will show you exactly what kind of exposure/white balance you will get with your chosen manual settings, and what the effect will be if you change a setting. With any or all of your exposure settings on Auto, the "Preview Exp/WB" setting doesn't operate. Secondly, you don't have to turn the setting off for flash work, but - as Tikcus explains - if you're using flash in dark conditions it helps to turn it off, otherwise you can't see anything much through the EVF/LCD.

 

I too keep it switched on, except for using flash in darker conditions.

[Starkman]

Ah, I see. Thanks for the input, folks.

[Starkman]

Oh,one last question: in that I don't use manual mode that often, will turning off the feature save some battery?

[dfaye]

I don't think it will make any noticeable difference to battery life whether you keep it turned or off. I'd suggest leaving it turned on so that it's there when you need it (and when you're not in manual mode, the setting isn't in operation anyway).

[Starkman]

Thanks, dfaye