The E (exposure compensation) button

Use this button to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera. Exposure compensation can be used to make pictures brighter or darker.

−1 EV
No exposure compensation
+1 EV

Adjusting exposure compensation

  • Hold the E button and rotate a command dial.
  • Choose from values between –5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure). Values between –3 EV and +3 EV are available in video mode.
  • Changes are made in increments of 1/3 EV.
  • Higher values make the subject brighter, lower values darker.
  • Normal exposure can be restored by setting exposure compensation to ±0. Exposure compensation is not reset when the camera is turned off (in b mode, exposure compensation is reset when the camera is turned off).
  • At values other than ±0.0, the camera displays a E icon and the exposure indicator in photo mode or a E icon in video mode. The current value for exposure compensation can be confirmed by pressing the E button.

Mode M

  • In mode M, exposure compensation affects only the exposure indicator; shutter speed, aperture, and ISO sensitivity do not change. The overall brightness of the image also does not change.
  • The exposure indicator and the current value for exposure compensation can be displayed by pressing the E button.
  • When auto ISO sensitivity control (Auto ISO sensitivity control) is in effect, ISO sensitivity is automatically adjusted according to the value selected for exposure compensation, and the overall brightness of the image changes.

Using a flash

When an optional flash unit is used, exposure compensation affects both flash level and exposure, altering the brightness of both the main subject and the background. Custom Setting e3 [Exposure comp. for flash] can be used to restrict the effects of exposure compensation to the background only.