Digital Zone System (Part Four) ~ Concise Guide to the Entire Imaging Pipeline

Using the Digital Zone System input correction curve generated in Part Three, Here is a high level overview of the entire imaging pipeline.  Remembering that RAW files are essential in this process for retaining tonal values:

Metering ~

Easy Peasy Approach

• Let the in-camera matrix metering system do its job

Note: I've found this is good enough for me in 99percent of the cases I encounter.  The metering system knows how to balance tonal distribution quite nicely.

Intentional Approach

• Using the in-camera "Spot" meter, place tonal values 

Note: Taking time to spot meter a scene can yield accurate exposures per a photographers intentions.  This can work well with stationary subjects, or working in an environment where the lighting is stable (unchanging). 

Exposure ~

0EV as Zone 5

• Release the shutter

-1EV as Zone 5

• Set the exposure system to -1EV
• Release the shutter 

 Note: I've found I can work quickly and efficiently when under-exposing at -1EV and combining it with the Easy-Peasy Metering Approach.

Processing ~ 

• Import RAW image into a software for processing
• Apply the Digital Zone System corrective curve (created in Part Three)
• Watching how tones are distributed in the histogram
• Move the top of the curve to just above pure white
• Move the bottom of the curve to just below pure black
  
• Using normal image processing tools, modify contrast and brightness to taste

Note: RawTherapee comes with minimally four curves.  Two are found under the Exposure tab.  Two more are found under the Black and White controls.  Working with just the Exposure tab, the input correction curve will be found as Curve 1.  Using Curve 2 (also set to Luminance), setting the pure white and pure black values is a very simple exercise of moving the Curve 2 top and bottom points.

 

Sony A6000, Sigma 19mm f/2.8 EX DN
-1EV as Zone 5
Matrix metering
RawTherapee processed per above
Pt/Pd tints