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When to use the Partial metering mode As I have explained in issue No: 17 of this column on how to use the Partial metering mode with the various EOS cameras to create better pictures, I will again show the owners of the EOS 300 of how efficient the model can be when it comes to using this meter option in addition to its excellent 35-zone Evaluative version. In most cases, there is really no need for any EOS 300 owner to exercise the option of switching over to the Partial meter since the Evaluative type is more than capable of handling all types of lighting conditions. However, as your interest in photography grows, you may find that experimenting with the various performance functions of EOS 300 would be to your advantage. While the EOS 300 is a great camera, I am sure every owner would also like to ensure that they can use other EOS models effectively as well where the 35-zone Evaluative metering is not available. Hence, the knowledge of using the Partial metering option will be invaluable indeed. Unlike the higher specs models like the EOS 50/50E, EOS 5, EOS-3 and EOS-1N/1N RS, the EOS 300, like all the other entry-level EOS series, enables the use of the Partial metering on a non-permanent basis - the AE Lock button doubles up as the Partial button. It is available only whenever you press this button to change the camera's setting from Evaluative to Partial, which will also activate the AE Lock feature. The shutter button can retain the memorized reading provided it is still pressed halfway after the Partial/AE Lock mode has been activated. For those who may use the EOS 300 loaded with color reversal film, don't be surprised to see that the overall exposure renditions will be much more saturated compared to those shot using the Evaluative metering. This is because the Partial meter only concentrates its sensitivity within the limits of its 9.5 per cent parameter in the center of the frame and ignores every thing outside the zone, hence the increased saturation for your main subject. For shooting subjects which are not located in the center of the frame, aim the Partial meter at the off-center main subject and use the AE Lock button to memorize the reading, recompose your intended scene and shoot.
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