Spot metering is a camera exposure setting that measures the light in a very small area of the scene, allowing for precise exposure readings that can help to capture details in both highlights and shadows. This technique is especially useful in documentary photography where lighting conditions can vary greatly, and accurate exposure is essential to convey the intended mood and context of the image. By focusing on specific subjects or areas within a frame, spot metering helps photographers make informed decisions about how to expose their images, ensuring that important details are neither lost in overexposure nor underexposure.
congrats on reading the definition of spot metering. now let's actually learn it.