CW metering with the Nikon FM2n

[Pfreddee]

Since this is the only form of metering on this camera I'm looking for some tips as to how to use it.

The center circle accounts for 60% of the metering area, and the rest of the view accounts for 40%, as I understand it. When I'm using the meter, it's very tricky to get the meter to a null reading. I can adjust the aperture only. I noticed that any tilting or swinging the camera from side to side will affect the reading. It is usually a + or a - in addition to the null reading. How much of a stop adjustment is the + or the - ? Will this make a major difference with B/W film or do I need to go to full stops?

Any suggestions will be great ly appreciated.

Thanks to all who reply.

With best regards,

Pfreddee(Stephen)

 

[Phil_F_NM]

If you get a + or - with the null, then you're about 1/2 stop from the correct exposure. With negative film, either black & white or color, you'll have a ton of latitude so less than a stop isn't going to matter.

Phil Forrest

 

[sevo]

The match LED with its tendency to jump can be irritating, but that half stop does not matter - if any, the tendency to underexpose if there is a bright highlight within that central circle will cause more issues. In most conditions, that type of centre weighting does work pretty well, even with chrome film. In critical high contrast conditions, walk in on the subject, so that you have the relevant mid tone filling the entire circle.