2. Z 5 Online Manual
  3. Shooting Controls
  4. The E (Exposure Compensation) Button

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 the main command dial.

  • Choose from values between –5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure). Values between –3 EV and +3 EV are available in movie mode.

  • By default, changes are made in increments of 1/3 EV. The size of the increments can be changed using Custom Setting b1 [EV steps for exposure cntrl] to 1/2 EV.

  • Higher values make the subject brighter, lower values darker.

  • Exposure compensation is not available in b mode.

  • Normal exposure can be restored by setting exposure compensation to ±0. Exposure compensation is not reset when the camera is turned off.

  • At values other than ±0.0, the camera displays a E icon (movie mode) or a E icon and the exposure indicator (photo mode) after you release the E button. The current value for exposure compensation can be confirmed by pressing the E button.

    Monitor

    Viewfinder
Mode M

  • In shooting mode M, exposure compensation affects only the exposure indicator; shutter speed and aperture do 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.

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.