Locking the exposure on your Canon R5 allows you to maintain a consistent exposure setting even when recomposing your shot. Here's how to do it:
-
Focus on your subject: Begin by focusing on the part of the scene you want correctly exposed. Press the shutter button halfway down. The camera will meter the scene and display the exposure value (aperture, shutter speed, and ISO) in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen.
-
Activate AE Lock: Press the AE lock button (usually marked with an asterisk * or similar icon) on the back of your camera. Holding this button locks the exposure settings. The location of the AE lock button may vary slightly depending on your specific camera settings. Check your Canon R5 manual if you're unsure.
-
Recompose your shot: While still holding down the AE lock button, recompose your image to your desired framing.
-
Take the picture: Fully press the shutter button to take the picture with the locked exposure. As long as you continue to hold the AE lock button, all subsequent shots will maintain the same exposure settings.
Important Considerations:
-
Metering Mode: The effectiveness of AE Lock can depend on your metering mode (Evaluative, Partial, Spot, Center-weighted average). Experiment to see which mode works best for your shooting style and the types of scenes you typically photograph. Evaluative metering is generally the most common and versatile.
-
Custom Functions: The AE Lock button's function can be customized in the Canon R5's menu. Check your camera's custom function settings to ensure the AE Lock button is set to "AE Lock" and not another function.
-
*Alternative Method: Using Exposure Compensation:** If you find holding the AE Lock button inconvenient, you can also use exposure compensation after initially metering your scene. Dial in the appropriate exposure compensation value and your camera will maintain that exposure offset until you change it. This offers another way to control exposure without continuous button pressing.
By mastering the AE Lock function, you can gain more control over your images and ensure consistent exposure in challenging lighting situations.
