Module 3: ISO, Exposure & Metering

In this module, we focus on developing your ability to read and control light with confidence. You’ll be introduced to a range of metering approaches, tools, and concepts that help ensure accurate exposure in different lighting conditions. We also begin laying the groundwork for understanding how exposure, dynamic range, and colour interact, setting the stage for more deliberate, consistent, and expressive photographic decision-making.

Module 3 Course Preview

Why This Module Matters

Photography is all about controlling exposure through precise light metering and the ability to interpret light when looking at a scene. In Module 3, you’ll:

Learn to control exposure in any lighting situation.
Practice and make intentional creative decisions instead of relying on guesswork.
Improve consistency and accuracy across different cameras, lenses, and environments.
Deepen your understanding of how light, colour, and dynamic range affect the final image.
Strengthen your ability to achieve your desired visual style with confidence.

What You’ll Learn

Light & Exposure Control
Understand how different metering methods guide accurate exposure in varying conditions.
ISO, Noise & Image Quality
Learn how ISO sensitivity settings affect detail, colour, and clarity in your photographs.
Dynamic Range & the Zone System
Explore how to manage contrast and tone placement for consistent results.
Colour Foundations
Gain a clear understanding of RGB, greyscale relationships, and white balance control.

What You’ll Do

Practice Metering Techniques
Compare handheld, in-camera, spot, and incident metering in real lighting scenarios.
Test Exposure & Tone
Conduct greyscale and tonal placement exercises to build confidence in your decisions.
Create Your Own Zone Ruler
Develop and utilise a practical tool, whether digital or mechanical, to ensure tonal accuracy.
Apply Methods in Editing Software
Use Lightroom and Photoshop to refine, evaluate, and confirm your exposure choices.

Module Topics

In Module 3, we will cover the following topics and beyond:

Light Meters
Handheld Light Meters
In-Camera Light Meters
Average Reflective Metering
Scenario 1: Bright Scenes
Scenario 2: Dark Scenes
Incident Metering
Spot Metering
Understanding Digital ISO
Increased Light Sensitivity
Digital Noise
High ISO, Contrast & Colour Distortion
Auto ISO
The Shutter Speed, Aperture & ISO Relationship
The 18% Grey Card
Palm Metering
My Studio Light Metering Method
What Is Dynamic Range?

A Guide To Using Dynamic Range
The Zone System
The Stepped Greyscale Test
Zone System Basics
RGB & Colour Basics
RGB, Greyscale & Colour Bias
Custom White Balance (CWB)
Overview – Building A Zone Ruler
Compiling Exposure Data In The Zone Table
The Final Procedure, Constructing The Zone Ruler
Mechanical, Old-School Zone Ruler
Photoshop Zone Ruler Construction
Making Use Of Our Test Results
Practical Zone Placement
Lightroom Classic vs. Lightroom CC
Metering Colours & Other Tips
On Light Metering
The Sunny F/16 Rule

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 3, you will:

Confidently read and assess light in a wide range of shooting environments.
Make accurate exposure decisions using metering tools and techniques.
Understand how ISO, dynamic range, and tonal control affect image clarity and mood.
Apply the Zone System to achieve consistent and intentional tonal placement.
Refine your colour accuracy and workflow across camera settings and editing software.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

As with every stage of your learning, our expert tutors will support you throughout Module 3. They’ll help you refine your understanding of light meters, build confidence while setting up the exposure in your images, and strengthen your ability to understand light. With guidance and feedback, you’ll leave this module ready to make thoughtful, creative, and functional photography decisions.