How do I take a meter reading with Nikon D200

[wayneleone]

Just bought my first Digital SLR - Nikon D200 and was wondering how to take a meter reading? At the moment I'm guessing I focus as normal on the area I want to meter (choosing say spot metering) then press the AE-L (Exposure Lock) button. I then re focus back to my subject and take the photo. Is this the correct procedure? If so, then with the AE-L button pressed, the camera won't try to meter again when focusing on my subject. Is this correct?

[jdepould]

If you're spot metering and recomposing you need to hold down the AE-L until after you've taken the picture. If you're not recomposing and simply shooting as-is, you needn't bother with the AE-L, simply depress the shutter release halfway to activate AF and metering, then trigger the shutter.

[wayneleone]

Thanks for clearing that up for me.