What is the Zone System?

Developed by Ansel Adams and Fred Archer, the Zone System divides the tonal range into 11 zones (0 to X). Zone V is middle grey (18%). Each zone represents one stop of exposure. The system allows photographers to pre-visualise the final print by choosing where to place specific tones.

Is the Zone System relevant for digital?

Yes. While originally developed for sheet film, the Zone System concepts apply directly to digital exposure. The histogram is a digital equivalent of zone mapping. Understanding zones helps with spot metering, exposure compensation, and post-processing decisions.

A light meter always reads towards Zone V (middle grey). Placement means deliberately shifting a metered tone to a different zone. If you meter dark bark and want it at Zone III (dark with detail), you place it there by underexposing 2 stops from the meter reading.

How many zones can a camera capture?

Modern digital cameras typically capture 8-14 stops of dynamic range, equivalent to 8-14 zones. Film typically captures 7-10 zones depending on the stock and development. Prints display about 7-8 zones of range.

PhotoCalcs

Zone System Calculator — Ansel Adams Exposure Zones

Map scene luminance to the Zone System's 11 zones for precise exposure and development control.

Metered EV

Spot meter reading of the area you want to place

Place Metered Area On

Which zone should this metered area fall on?

How We Calculate This

The Zone System maps the 11 tonal zones (0-X) to exposure values, with each zone representing one stop of light.

A light meter reads toward Zone V (middle grey). If you meter a subject and want it to appear at a different zone, adjust the exposure accordingly.

Zone EV = Metered EV + (Target Zone - V)

For example, if you meter dark foliage at EV 10 and want it at Zone III (dark with detail), the actual exposure should be EV 10 - 2 = EV 8, which means 2 stops more light than the meter suggests.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard optical and photographic formulas. Results may vary with specific equipment.