Why You Can’t Use Spot Metering in Video Mode on the Canon EOS R5 & R5 Mark II (And Why That’s OK)
If you’re shooting video with the Canon EOS R5 or R5 Mark II, you might be digging through the menus wondering, "Where is the spot metering option?" You’re not alone. In fact this post was inspired by a question I got from a few subscribers. So I made this post to help explain what’s going on. Many Canon shooters expect to see spot metering available in video mode, especially those coming from DSLR workflows. But here’s the short answer: Canon has removed spot metering in video mode on these cameras, and it’s probably not coming back anytime soon.
No Spot Metering in Video Mode: Canon’s Choice
Canon has reserved spot metering in video mode for its higher-end cinema lineup. That means if you're using an EOS R5 or R5 Mark II, your metering options in video mode are limited but still very usable.
In video mode:
Center-weighted average metering is the default.
If the camera detects a face, it switches to evaluative metering.
These metering modes aren’t as precise as spot metering, but they’re generally reliable, especially when paired with Canon’s excellent subject tracking and face detection systems.
Why Spot Metering Isn’t as Essential Anymore
Now here’s the good news: with modern mirrorless cameras, you don’t actually need spot metering the way you once did.
1. Live Exposure Preview
One of the biggest advantages of mirrorless systems like the EOS R5 and R5 Mark II is the real-time exposure preview in both the LCD and EVF. You can see exactly how your exposure is going to look before you hit record. This makes it much easier to judge brightness across your frame, even without using spot metering.
2. Built-In Exposure Tools
In addition to live preview, Canon have equipped their mirrorless cameras with powerful exposure tools like:
Zebra patterns - Highlights areas that are overexposed.
False color (on some models) - Helps visualize exposure ranges.
Waveforms - A pro-level tool that shows you how brightness is distributed across the frame.
Highlight Tone Priority - To help preserve details in the highlights
These tools offer far more nuanced and reliable exposure data than a single metering point ever could.
Practical Advice for EOS R5 / R5 Mark II Video Shooters
If you’re shooting video on these cameras:
Trust your live exposure preview, what you see is what you get.
Turn on zebras or waveforms if your camera supports them.
When lighting is tricky, rely on face detection to help guide metering, especially during interviews or vlog-style content. I mean that’s kind of a no brainer but just saying use face tracking instead of spot focus to ensure the camera knows it’s focusing on a face.
And remember: Proper exposure isn’t about chasing a number, it’s about using the tools available to make informed, creative choices.
Final Thoughts
While it’s disappointing that Canon doesn’t offer spot metering in video mode on the EOS R5 or R5 Mark II, modern mirrorless tools more than make up for it. With exposure previews, advanced metering modes, and waveform monitors, you have everything you need to nail your exposure every time.
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