Mastering the Nikon D300

2.18. How Does the Eye React to Light Values?

The D300 camera, with its imaging sensor and glass lenses, is only a weak imitation of our marvelously designed eye and brain functions. There are very few situations where our eyes cannot adjust to the available light range, and we can see well in most cases. So, as photographers, we are always seeking ways to record even a small portion of what the eye and mind can see.

Since our eyes tend to know that shadows are black, and expects that, it is usually better to expose for the highlights. If you see dark shadows, that seems normal. We're simply not used to seeing light that's so bright that all detail is lost. An image exposed for the dark values will look strange because most highlight detail ...