Step by step Applying exposure compensation

With a little trial and error, it’s easy to make sure your camera lets just the right amount of light in

The right button

On some cameras, exposure compensation is only available in Program, Shutter Priority and Aperture Priority modes, while others allow Manual too.

Look at your LCD

Hold down the exposure compensation button and rotate the command dial (the rear main command dial on two-dial cameras).

The multi-selector

On some models, such as the D3500, you can also apply exposure compensation through the information display on the LCD.

Choose a value

Compensation can be anywhere between -5EV and +5EV, in steps of 1/3EV. It’s rare that you’ll need to go all the way to one of these extremes.

Fine-tuning

Having set your compensation level, take a shot and review it on the LCD. If the exposure still needs tweaking, simply repeat the procedure.

Wipe the setting

When you’ve finished with the shot or sequence of shots, remember to set compensation back to 0EV so that it isn’t applied to future images!