how important is spot metering?-30DvsXTI

When comparing the XTI and the 30 D I found that there are very few differences between to two cameras. The only difference is the option for spot metering is not available with the XTi and the 30D has ISO 3200, oh and the 30d allows 5fps.

I think the 3fps the XTI offers is enough for me and the 3200 ISO on the 30D is probably hardly used (right?) so I am boiling it down to spot metering.

How important is spot metering to you and would you buy a camera without it?

Here is a comparison chart if you are interested:
http://www.dpreview.co​m …%2Ccanon_eos400​d&show=all

The main difference for me would be the size of the XTi (400D) It is rather small compared to a 'normal' SLR/DSLR. I found it awkward to hold with my hands.
However, maybe that suits some people...

I have small hands and I also suffer from right arm RSI (repetative strain injury) so the lighter smaller body is likely good for me too.

PixelChick78 wrote in post #2285423
When comparing the XTI and the 30 D I found that there are very few differences between to two cameras. The only difference is the option for spot metering is not available with the XTi and the 30D has ISO 3200, oh and the 30d allows 5fps.

I think the 3fps the XTI offers is enough for me and the 3200 ISO on the 30D is probably hardly used (right?) so I am boiling it down to spot metering.

How important is spot metering to you and would you buy a camera without it?

Here is a comparison chart if you are interested:
http://www.dpreview.co​m …%2Ccanon_eos400​d&show=all

I bought the 30D partly because it is heavy!! (piano player with good wrists and I like the heft).

I was attracted to spot metering (haven't used it yet, but maybe I will).

I was also attacted to 5 fps. I mainly shoot stills!!! What was I thinking?

I'm not a beginner (started in 1962), so it's not likely that I will suddenly start using these features (well I still like the weight).

In all likelihood, the 400/XTi will be perfect for you.

Regarding the spot metering, I've only used the slightly inferior 'partial' metering on my 20D a couple of times and found it perfectly adequate for my needs, but it all depends on the situation and whether you think you need it really.

PixelChick78 wrote in post #2285423
How important is spot metering to you and would you buy a camera without it?

For me this wasn't a deal breaker when I bought my 20D in june (wich actually doesn't have spot meter).

I have the XTi (400D in Europe) and am very pleased with its performance. The small size suits my small hands, but I do prefer it with the battery grip.

Relevance of spot metering depends on what you are intending to shoot. I shoot mostly birds and "in flight" shots (bird against a light background) would be much easier with spot metering. Having said that, I can live without it and get good captures with centre-weighted metering.

Colin

Spot metering is only good if you know how to use it properly and then ajust the camera based on the spot metre reading to get the exsposure you want ,if you get it wrong it can mess up far more than say partial or CW.
Rob.

when i looked at the 30d and the xti
it relaly came down to how it felt in my hands

the 30d has some "better" features
as stated 5fps
spot meatering

but it also just felt better in my hands which is important in a camera

also, isnt the 30d made out of magnezium? or somehtin like that
and the xti is plastic based?

Spot metering's importance is relative to the user. For me its highly important but i shoot in all kinds of difficult lighting. The more harsh the lighting, the more useful it is.

The 30D has slightly better higher ISO(at 800 and 1600). Also the 30D has 1/3 ISO stops, which is very nice if you are a low light shooter.

So for instance between 800 and 1600, you also have 1000 and 1250 as two extra stops. Really there's no way of evaulating this without actually handling the camera and using it for a little. At the very least, you should handle both. Even with your small hands.

No stat of experience for any individual here will really convey the actual feeling and what not. The thing that will bring on the weight is the glass, more than the body(especially if you don't use a grip).

I have only had my 30D for 2days..but I love this spot metering. I know whats going to have the exposure. It was really helpful with flowers I was shooting.

Even if you never used spot metering the 30D offers a better build quality (metal v. plastic), a longer shutter life, and a more comfortable feel in your hands for most people.

You'd be surprised what a nice feature 5fps is when shooting portaits as well as sports photography when you want to get that perfect facial expression.

If you ever purchase or rent a longer/heavier lens such as the 70-200 f/2.8 you will find that the camera is better balanced with a heavier body (even nicer with a BG-E2 battery holder attached to the 30D.)

I think the second dial on the back makes a bigger difference. Not having that *would* be a deal breaker for me.