Active D-Lighting is effective in high-contrast situations. When used with 3D Color Matrix Metering II, the exposure is determined with emphasis on gradations in the highlighted area. With the Nikon D3 or D300, Highlight Analysis of the Scene Recognition System is applied for exposures of greater precision while compensating for lost shadows with digital processing for clearer reproduction. Digital processing applies only to the necessary portion, as with dodge techniques used in printing, and maintains partial contrast that is likely to be lost with tone-curve control. Even when shooting a subject of a wide dynamic range, which is conventionally difficult, Active D-Lighting is able to reproduce a realistic image retaining natural contrast while reducing blown-out highlights and lost shadows.
Unlike conventional D-Lighting, which makes adjustments after the image is converted to JPEG, Active D-Lighting allows exposure and image processing optimization prior to JPEG conversion, ensuring natural results. This feature is the result of repeated shooting in actual field conditions and simulation trials by Nikon engineers who know what it takes to produce a natural look in any section of a photograph.
