Spot metering is a camera exposure technique that measures the light in a very small area of the scene, typically around 1-5% of the total frame. This method allows photographers to focus on a specific subject or detail, ensuring accurate exposure even in challenging lighting conditions. By isolating the light reading, spot metering helps capture the desired brightness of the subject without being influenced by the surrounding areas. This technique is particularly useful in high-contrast situations, such as when photographing a person against a bright background. By using spot metering, photographers can avoid overexposure or underexposure, resulting in a well-balanced image.