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How Do I Change the Exposure on a Canon 5D Mark II?

Published in Photography Basics 3 mins read

Changing the exposure on your Canon 5D Mark II is straightforward and essential for capturing well-lit photos. Here's how to adjust the exposure compensation:

Adjusting Exposure Compensation

  1. Set the Mode Dial: First, turn the mode dial on top of your camera to either:

    • P (Program): Camera sets aperture and shutter speed, but you can adjust the overall exposure.
    • Tv (Shutter Priority): You set the shutter speed, and the camera automatically adjusts the aperture. This is also sometimes labelled "S".
    • Av (Aperture Priority): You set the aperture, and the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed. This is also sometimes labelled "A".

  2. Check the Exposure Level Indicator: Press the shutter button halfway down. This activates the camera's metering system. Look in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen. You'll see the exposure level indicator, which is a scale with a needle or marker indicating the current exposure level. A '0' usually indicates the meter thinks the exposure is correct.

  3. Set the Exposure Compensation Amount: Use the Quick Control Dial (the large dial on the back of the camera) to adjust the exposure compensation.

    • Turning the dial to the right (+) will increase the exposure, making the image brighter.
    • Turning the dial to the left (-) will decrease the exposure, making the image darker.
    • The exposure compensation range is typically +/- 2 or 3 stops in 1/3 or 1/2 stop increments (depending on your settings).

  4. Take the Picture: Once you've set the desired exposure compensation, fully press the shutter button to take the picture. Review the image on the LCD screen and adjust the exposure compensation further if needed.

Understanding Exposure Compensation

Exposure compensation allows you to override the camera's automatic metering system. This is useful when the camera's meter is fooled by scenes with:

  • Bright subjects: Like snow or a bright sandy beach, which can cause the camera to underexpose (making the image too dark). Use positive compensation (+).
  • Dark subjects: Like a dark forest or a subject in deep shadow, which can cause the camera to overexpose (making the image too bright). Use negative compensation (-).

By understanding and utilizing exposure compensation, you can gain more control over your images and achieve the desired look.

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