Exposure Guide You've decided that the meter in your camera is becoming more of a nuisance than a compliment to your photography.  You want to become independent of electronics and batteries.  You want to become a better Photographer.  Then this is for you! Basic rule of exposure.  Sunny F16 rule.  When you have a clear sunny day, start at a shutter speed that is equivalent to your film speed and set your Aperture to F16. Sunny Bright?  F16, shutter same speed as film. Cloudy?  Open up 2 stops. Heavy Overcast or Open Shade?  Open up 3 stops. Instead of opening up the aperture you can always decrease the shutter speed. Exceptions: Sand or Snow?  Open up 1 Stop. People Portraits/Faces?  Open up 1 stop to brighten faces. Deep Shadow Areas?  Open up 1-2 Stops for increased shadow detail. Filters: Polarizer - Open up 2 stops. Warming Filter - Open up 1/2-1 stop. Red or Orange - Open up 2 stops. Yellow - Open up 1 to stop. Green - Open up 1.5 stops   ASA 100 Film F16/Shutter Speed Sand/Snow 1/250 Sunny 1/125 Cloudy 1/30 Heavy Overcast 1/15 Open Shade 1/15 Balance Shadows 1/60 or 1/30 Sunset 1/4 Night/Brightly Lit Streets 1/2 to 1   Once you get the hang of it, it will be easier than repointing your camera everywhere trying to get a correct reading for a particular subject area.