Matrix metering mode considers the whole frame to ...

2010-01-16T19:26:55.708+09:00

Matrix metering mode considers the whole frame to determine exposure. "Really Big Leaves" has much large area of relative darkness than your daughter. Perhaps that caused the image to blow out. (Short of a manufacture showing just how a matrix|evaluative metering mode works for each camera, this mode is fuzzy. But you should still try it yourself to see where this would be better suited.)

Have you tried center weighted metetring yet? Exposure priority is given to the area in, well, center of the frame. Your camera manual must have a diagram to show the coverage (assuming the camera does have CW metering mode). The coverage would be more than the center focus sensor indicator or center spot meter area. That is not to say CW metering will cover you in all cases.

If the camera lacks CW metering, then take spot meter readings over the area that you care about; average them; for good measure, bracket.

Actually, bracket in any metering mode if are unsure|or don't want to risk the shot.

OTOH, an incident light meter (borrow, rent, if not buy) would solve most of your camera-determined exposure problems.

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Matrix metering mode considers the whole frame to ...