Step by step How to set exposure compensation
Dial in exposure compensation to fine-tune exposures for darker or brighter scenes
Press the button
The Exposure Compensation ‘+/-’ button is on the top panel. On some D3xxx and D5xxx cameras, you use the ‘i’ menu to set exposure compensation.
Shooting modes
Exposure compensation only works in Program, Shutter Priority and Aperture Priority modes. In Manual, it will only work if you have Auto ISO on.
Display settings
Rotate the rear command dial while holding the exposure compensation button to see the amount of compensation on the top LCD display or rear monitor.
1/3-stop steps
You can add compensation in 1/3EV stops. Most Nikons have a range from -5EV to +5EV, which will allow you to balance exposure in most situations.
Fine-tune the level
After setting the exposure compensation level, take a shot and review it. Change the levels if you need to fine-tune the exposure to get the best result.
Reset to zero
When you’ve finished shooting a scene, remember to reset the exposure comp value back to 0, as otherwise it will be applied to every other image you shoot!