I have a Nikon D70. Can someone please explain the different metering modes to me? What is listed is spot, center weighted average, and matrix.
also center weighted has a sub menu with 6,8,10 and 12mm. I really can't tell between them. The only thing that I've been able to find out through websites is that spot is what you want to use for objects that are back lit.
Thanks for any assistance.

Spot measures just the light in the center, usually marked with a circle in your viewfinder. It's the best way to get manual readings perfect, but won't work at all for auto and snapshooting. The mm is the size of the spot it reads (in the viewfinder). Average measures the entire frame, and the weighted part means it gives more preference as you move to the aforementioned spot. It used to be the way to go before matrix. Matrix takes several discrete meterings (varies by manufacturer) and uses nifty formulas to calculate the best exposure.

Spot measures just the light in the center, usually marked with a circle in your viewfinder. It's the best way to get manual readings perfect, but won't work at all for auto and snapshooting.
By Auto, do you just mean auto "A" or are you including the program "P" function in that as well ? I guess what I'm asking is how manual is manual?

Average measures the entire frame, and the weighted part means it gives more preference as you move to the aforementioned spot. It used to be the way to go before matrix.

With above question about auto in mind; if I were doing just straight auto mode pictures, I would want it on matrix and not even use center weighted? Is there ever a time when I would want it on center weighted?

Totaly unrelated here, I love your avatar. It is so true!

Leave off spot for P.

I'd stick with matrix (although this can get complicated, my camera has like 12 different matrix modes).

To further complicate things, I use my spot metering with auto by using the exposure lock button (not sure if your camera has one). I know from experience where to put the spot, then I hold the lock button, recompose, and shoot. (this is for "arty" stuff, not for birthdays and holidays).

Your best bet is to experiment. It's digital, pixels are free, so find what works best for you.

Leave off spot for P.

I'd stick with matrix (although this can get complicated, my camera has like 12 different matrix modes).

To further complicate things, I use my spot metering with auto by using the exposure lock button (not sure if your camera has one). I know from experience where to put the spot, then I hold the lock button, recompose, and shoot. (this is for "arty" stuff, not for birthdays and holidays).

Your best bet is to experiment. It's digital, pixels are free, so find what works best for you.

Thanks for the help!