Nikon D5100 Reference Manual - Page 88

Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker. It is most effective when used with M (Center-weighted metering) or N (Spot metering) (0 68). Choose from values between -5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure) in increments of 1/3 EV. In general, positive values make the subject brighter while negative values make it darker. t -1 EV No exposure compensation +1 EV 1 Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the P button. Press the P button again to place the cursor in the information display. Information display P button 2 Display exposure compensation options. Highlight exposure compensation in the information display and press J. 3 Choose a value. Highlight a value and press J. To return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. Normal exposure can be restored by setting exposure compensation to ±0. Exposure compensation is not reset when the camera is turned off, but is reset if you select another mode after choosing %. 70