I didn't explain the metering modes because, honestly...I have rarely used them myself. In fact the only time I have switched modes is if I use shutter priority. Otherwise its always been matrix metering.
Using the M mode doesn't mean you adjust the dials to reach zero. That will hold no value. Most of the times the picture doesn't even look good at zero, but that's objective of course. The M mode actually helps you learn when to under/over expose your image just a bit to get a perfect shot. M mode is not recommended for weddings or shooting kids etc. I mentioned it later in someone's reply that it should be used only when you have time to shoot peacefully, without any sudden changes in your surrounding, mostly landscapes or flowers etc.
And as photoprozero mentioned earlier, guess its not really the f/2.8 setting but more about which lens/camera combination you have.
Well this is definitely new for me and I can't wait to try it out in the next sunrise shoot. Generally I always did the first part...adjsut and shoot until I saw what I like. After enough practice, it didn't take me too long to recalibrate my settings. After clicking the first shot, I would realize the error, and within the second or third shot would get the exposure spot on...earlier it would take much more
Also, another new thing to check out.. what you called the black card technique. Have used GNDs before, but haven't heard about black card so far.
Guess you learn something new every day after all. I appreciate all the advice. Will try to be more thorough next time. Thank you