Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon D1X digital camera. This manual is designed
to improve your enjoyment of this advanced single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera.
As you read through it, you will find explanations not only of how the camera works,
but of how certain features can be used to take photographs in a variety of situations. The manual is divided into the following sections:
The “Getting Started” section describes the symbols and conventions used in
this manual and provides a guide to the names and functions of camera controls
This section provides sufficient information to master simple “point-and-shoot”
photography. After reading this section, you should know enough about your
camera to enjoy the simplicity and immediacy of digital photography.
Like the tutorial, the reference section covers the steps involved in shooting and
playback in the order most commonly followed when taking photographs, but
covers these topics in greater depth. Taking playback one step further, it also
describes how to view photographs on a computer or television.
• Custom Settings and Other Menus ..........................................pp. 155–191
This section details custom settings and provides an index to camera menus.
• Index .................................................................................pp. 220–223
iii
Page 3
For Your Safety
To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others, read
the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equipment. Keep
these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them.
The consequences that could result from failure to observe the precautions listed in
this section are indicated by the following symbols:
This icon marks warnings, information that should be read before using your
Nikon product to prevent possible injury.
WARNINGS
Do not look at the sun through the viewfinder
Viewing the sun or other strong light source through the viewfinder could cause permanent
visual impairment.
Turn off immediately in the event of malfunction
Should you notice smoke or an unusual smell coming from the equipment or from the AC
adapter (available separately), unplug the AC adapter and remove the batteries immediately,
taking care to avoid burns. Continued operation could result in injury. After removing the
batteries, take the equipment to a Nikon-authorized service center for inspection.
Do not use in the presence of flammable gas
Do not use electronic equipment in the presence of flammable gas, as this could result in
explosion or fire.
Do not place camera strap around neck
Placing the camera strap around your neck could result in strangulation. Special care should be
taken to avoid placing the strap around the neck of an infant or child.
Do not disassemble
Touching the product’s internal par ts could result in injur y. In the event of a malfunction, the
product should be repaired only by a qualified technician. Should the product break open as
the result of a fall or other accident, remove the batter y and/or AC adapter and then take the
product to a Nikon-authorized service center for inspection.
iv
Page 4
Observe due precaution when handling batteries
Batteries may leak or explode if improperly handled. Observe the following precautions when
handling batteries for use in this product:
• Be sure the product is off before inser ting or removing the battery. If you are using an AC
adapter, be sure it is unplugged.
• Foreign substances on the batter y terminals—for example, sweat or oil—may cause an
interruption in current. Before installing the battery, clean it thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.
• When the product is used on battery power for an extended period, the battery may
become hot. Due caution should be observed when removing the battery.
• Use only batteries approved for use in this equipment.
• Do not expose the battery to flame or to excessive heat or moisture. Do not short-circuit
or disassemble the battery.
Use appropriate cables
When connecting cables to the input and output jacks, use only the cables provided or sold by
Nikon for the purpose, to maintain compliance with product regulations.
Keep out of reac h of children
Particular care should be taken to prevent infants from putting batteries or other small parts
into their mouths.
Removing memory cards
Memory cards may become hot during use. Observe due caution when removing memory
cards from the camera.
CD-ROMs
The CD-ROMs on which the software and manuals are distributed should not be played back
on audio CD equipment. Playing CD-ROMs on an audio CD player could cause hearing loss or
damage the equipment.
Observe caution when operating the flash
Using a flash in close proximity to the eyes of a human or animal subject could cause permanent visual impairment. Particular care should be observed when photographing infants, when
the flash should be no less than one meter (39˝) from the subject.
Avoid contact with liquid crystal
Should the monitor break, care should be taken to avoid injury due to broken glass and to
prevent liquid crystal from the monitor touching the skin or entering the eyes or mouth.
v
Page 5
Caring for the Camera and Battery
Do not drop
The camera and lens may malfunction if subjected to strong shocks or vibration.
Keep dry
This product is not waterproof, and may malfunction if immersed in water or exposed to high
levels of humidity. Rusting of the internal mechanism can cause irreparable damage.
Avoid sudden changes in temperature
Sudden changes in temperature, such as occur when entering or leaving a heated building on a
cold day, can cause condensation inside the device. To prevent condensation, place the device
in its carrying case or a plastic bag before exposing it to sudden changes in temperature.
Keep away from strong magnetic fields
Do not use or store this device in the vicinity of equipment that generates strong electromagnetic radiation or magnetic fields. Strong static charges or the magnetic fields produced by
equipment such as radio transmitters could interfere with the monitor, damage data stored on
the memory card, or affect the product’s internal circuitry.
Do not touch the shutter curtain
The shutter curtain is constructed of extremely thin material that is easily damaged. Under no
circumstances should you exert pressure on the cur tain, poke it with cleaning tools or other
implements, or subject it to powerful air currents from a blower. These actions could scratch,
deform, or tear the curtain.
Cleaning
• When cleaning the camera body, use a blower to remove dust and lint, then wipe gently with
a soft, dry cloth. After using your camera at the beach or seaside, wipe off any sand or salt
using a cloth lightly dampened with pure water and then dry your camera thoroughly. In rare
instances, static electricity produced by a brush or cloth may cause the LCD displays to light
up or darken. This does not indicate a malfunction, and the display will shortly return to
normal.
• When cleaning the lens and mirror, remember that these elements are easily damaged. Dust
and lint should be gently removed with a blower. When using an aerosol blower, keep the
can vertical (tilting the can could result in liquid being sprayed on the mirror). If you do get
a fingerprint or other stain on the lens, apply a small amount of lens cleaner to a soft cloth
and wipe the lens carefully.
• See “Technical Notes: Caring for Your Camera” for information on cleaning the low-pass
filter.
Storage
• To prevent mold or mildew, store the camer a in a dry, well-ventilated area. If you will not be
using the product for a long period of time, remove the battery to prevent leakage and store
the camera in a plastic bag containing a desiccant. Do not, however, store the camera case
in a plastic bag, as this may cause the material to deter iorate. Note that desiccant gradually
loses its capacity to absorb moisture and should be replaced at regular intervals.
vi
Page 6
• Do not store the camera with naphtha or camphor moth balls, close to equipment that
produces strong magnetic fields, or in areas subject to extremes of temperature, for example
near a space heater or in a closed vehicle on a hot day.
• To prevent mold or mildew, take the camera out of storage at least once a month. Turn the
camera on and release the shutter a few times before putting the camera away again.
• Store the battery in a cool, dry place.
• Before storing EN-4 batter y packs that have been removed from the camera, replace the
cover that protects the terminals used for connection to a recharger.
Notes on the Monitor
• The monitor may contain a few pixels that are always lit or that do not light. This is a
characteristic common to all TFT LCD monitors and does not indicate a malfunction. Images recorded with the camera will not be affected.
• Images in the monitor may be difficult to see in a bright light.
• Do not apply pressure to the monitor, as this could cause damage or malfunction. Dust or
lint adhering to the monitor can be removed with a blower brush. Stains can be removed by
rubbing the surface lightly with a soft cloth or chamois leather.
• Should the monitor break, care should be taken to avoid injury due to broken glass and to
prevent the liquid crystal from the monitor touching the skin or entering the eyes or mouth.
• Replace the monitor cover
when transpor ting the camera
or leaving it unattended.
• Do not touch the batter y terminals with other metal objects. Keep the battery terminals
clean.
Turn the product off before removing the battery or unplugging the AC adapter
Do not unplug the product or remove the batter y while the camera is on, or while images are
being recorded or deleted from memory. Forcibly cutting power to the product in these
circumstances could result in loss of data or in damage to the internal circuitry or memory. To
prevent an accidental interruption of power, avoid carrying the product from one location to
another while the AC adapter is connected.
Keep a fully-charged spar e battery on hand
Ready a spare battery and keep it fully charged when taking photographs on important occasions. Depending on your location, you may find it difficult to purchase replacement batteries
on short notice.
On cold days, the capacity of batteries tends to decrease . Be sure the battery is fully charged
before taking photographs outside in cold weather. Keep a spare battery in a warm place and
exchange the two as necessary. Once warmed, a cold battery may recover some of its charge.
vii
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Notices
• No part of the manuals included with this product may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any
form, by any means, without Nikon’s prior written permission.
• Nikon reserves the right to change the specifications of the hardware and software described in these manuals at any time and without prior notice.
• Nikon will not be held liable for any damages resulting from the use of this product.
• While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in these manuals is accurate and complete, we would appreciate it were you to bring any errors
or omissions to the attention of the Nikon representative in your area (address
provided separately).
Notice for customers in Canada
CAUTION
This class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference
Causing Equipment Regulations.
ATTENTION
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement
sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
viii
Page 8
Notice for customers in the U.S.A.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pur suant to Part
15 of the FCC rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protec-
tion against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or televi-
sion reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.
CAUTIONS
Modifications
The FCC requires the user to be notified that any changes or modifications made to
this device that are not expressly approved by Nikon Corporation may void the
user's authority to operate the equipment.
Interface Cables
Use the interface cables sold or provided by Nikon for your equipment. Using other
interface cables may exceed the limits of Class B Part 15 of the FCC rules.
Nikon Inc.,
1300 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, New Yor k
11747-3064, U.S.A.
Tel.: 631-547-4200
FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE
T ested To Comply
With FCC Standards
D1
X
ix
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Notices (continued)
Notice Concerning Prohibition of Copying or Reproduction
Note that simply being in possession of material that has been digitally copied or
reproduced by means of a scanner, digital camera or other device is punishable by
law.
• Items prohibited by law from being copied or reproduced
Do not copy or reproduce paper money, coins, securities, government bonds, or
local government bonds, even if such copies or reproductions are stamped
“Sample.”
The copying or reproduction of paper money, coins, or securities which are circulated in a foreign country is prohibited.
Unless the prior permission of the government has been obtained, the copying or
reproduction of unused postage stamps or post cards issued by the government
is prohibited.
The copying or reproduction of stamps issued by the government and of certified documents stipulated by law is prohibited.
• Cautions on certain copies and reproductions
The government has issued cautions on copies or reproductions of securities
issued by private companies (shares, bills, checks, gift certificates, etc.), commuter
passes, or coupon tickets, except when a minimum of necessary copies are to be
provided for business use by a company. Also, do not copy or reproduce pass-
ports issued by the government, licenses issued by public agencies and private
groups, ID cards, and tickets, such as passes and meal coupons.
• Comply with copyright notices
The copying or reproduction of copyrighted creative works such as books, music,
paintings, woodcut prints, maps, drawings, movies, and photographs is prohibited
except when it is done for personal use at home or for similar restricted and
non-commercial use.
x
Page 10
Trademark Information
Apple, the Apple logo, Macintosh, Mac OS, Power Macintosh, and PowerBook are
registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. Finder and Power Mac are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. IBM and IBM PC/AT are registered trademarks of
International Business Machines Corporation. microdrive is a trademark of International Business Machines Corporation. PowerPC is a trademark of International
Business Machines Corporation, used under license. Microsoft is a registered trademark, and Windows, MS-Windows and Windows NT trademarks, of Microsoft Corporation. CompactFlash is a trademark of SanDisk corporation. All other trade
names mentioned in this manual or the other documentation provided with your
Nikon product are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
xi
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Table of Contents
About This Manual .............................................................................................................................ii
For Your Safety .....................................................................................................................................iv
Caring for the Camera and Battery.........................................................................................vi
Notices ..................................................................................................................................................... viii
Getting Started ...................................................................................1
Sensitivity (ISO Equivalency) ........................................................................................................ 62
White Balance ...................................................................................................................................... 64
Auto Bracketing ................................................................................................................................... 100
Index .............................................................................................................................. 220
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GETTING STARTED
• Overview ................ pp. 2–3
• Getting to Know the Camera
................................... pp. 4–18
About This Section
This section describes the symbols and conventions used in this manual and provides a guide to
the names and functions of camera controls and icons.
1
Page 15
Overview
This manual is designed to help you enjoy taking digital photographs with an advanced single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. The D1
GETTING STARTED—OVERVIEW
• A 5.47-million pixel, 23.7 mm × 15.6 mm (0.93˝ × 0.61˝) image-sensing chargedcoupled device (CCD) capable of capturing images up to 3,008 × 1,960 pixels in
size (photographs can also taken at a size of 2,000 × 1,312 pixels)
• Newly designed 3D digital matrix image control with 3D color matrix metering,
through-the-lens (TTL) white balance, and tone compensation for precise expo-
sure control, adaptive auto white-balance control, and optimal color accuracy
• A choice of two color modes (one optimized for the sRGB color space, the other
for the Adobe RGB color space), giving users the power to select a color space
suited according to the their production work-flow
• An enhanced shooting speed of approximately three frames per second for up
to nine consecutive shots (six shots in RAW mode)
• A menu of 0–36 custom settings displayed on the camera monitor in your choice
of English, French, German, or Japanese
• Lossless compression of RAW image data to increase the number of images that
can be stored on a single memory card and to enhance transfer speed, all without
sacrificing image quality
Servicing Your Camera and Accessories
Your camera is a precision machine and requires regular servicing. We recommend that you
have your camera inspected by your retailer or Nikon service representative once every one
to two years, and that you have it serviced once every three to five years (note that fees are
charged for these services). Frequent inspection and servicing are particularly recommended
if you use your camera professionally. When having your camera inspected or serviced, we
recommend that you bring you bring any accessor ies regularly used with the camera, such as
lenses and flash units.
X offers:
Buying Camera Accessories
Your camera is optimized for use with Nikon-brand accessories. Accessor ies sold by other
manufacturers may not be made to Nikon specifications and could damage your camera. Nikon
can not guarantee performance when the camera is used with non-Nikon accessories.
Replacing This Man ual
Should you lose this manual, replacements can be ordered, for a fee, from any authorized Nikon
service representative.
2
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To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions are used:
This icon marks cautions, information that you should read before using your
camera to prevent damage to the device.
GETTING ST
This icon marks notes, information that you should read before using your
camera.
This icon marks tips, additional information you may find helpful when using
your camera.
This icon indicates that more information is available elsewhere in this manual.
This symbol marks settings that can be adjusted using the camera menus.
This symbol marks camera settings that can be fine-tuned using the custom
setting or settings indicated by the number following the symbol.
Take Test Photos
Before taking photographs on important occasions (for example, at weddings or before taking
the camera on a trip), take a test shot to ensure that the camera is functioning normally. Nikon
will not be held liable for costs or lost profits that may result from product malfunction.
Life-Long Learning
As part of Nikon’s “Life-Long Learning” commitment to ongoing product support and education, continually-updated information is available on-line at the following sites:
•For user s in the U.S.A.: http://www.nikonusa.com/
•For user s in Europe: http://www.nikon-euro.com/
•For user s in Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa: http://www.nikon-asia.com/
Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information and general advice on
digital imaging and photography.
For more information, please contact your nearest Nikon representative.
http://www.klt.co.jp/Nikon/Network/index.html
ARTED—O
VERVIEW
3
Page 17
Getting to Know the Camera
Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with camera controls.
The following items are included with your camera:
BF-1A body cap
Monitor coverEG-D1 video cableAN-D1X camera
strap*
En
User's Manual
D1X User’s Manual
(this manual)
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Nikon View 4
CD
(contains Nikon View 4
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Reference CD
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Image database
software CD
Reference Manual )
* The camera strap contains leather, which may fade if abraded or left in contact with a damp
object for an extended period.
Attaching the Camera Strap
Attach the strap securely to the two eyelets on the camera body as shown below.
12
Page 26
The Mode Dial
To select the operating mode, press the mode-dial lock button and turn the mode dial to the desired setting.
ModeDescription
Self-timer
S
Single-frame
C
Continuous
PLAY
Playback
PC
PC mode
Use this mode to reduce blurring caused by camera shake or
to appear in photographs you take yourself.
The camera takes one photograph each time the shutterrelease button is pressed.
Photographs are taken one after the other while the shutterrelease button is held down.
This mode is used when viewing and deleting photographs
stored on the camera’s memory card.
This mode is used when the camera is connected to a computer.
GETTING STARTED—GETTING TO KNOW THE CAMERA
pg. 103
pg. 52
pg. 52
pg. 120
pg. 148
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Getting to Know the Camera (continued)
Buttons and Command Dials
GETTING STARTED—GETTING TO KNOW THE CAMERA
The main- and sub-command dials are used in combination with the buttons on the
top and rear of the camera to adjust a variety of settings. For ease of access when
taking photographs in tall (portrait) or ientation, a dial that duplicates the functions of
the main command dial has been placed close to the shutter-release button for
por trait-or ientation photographs.
ISO button
Auto-bracketing button
Flash sync mode button
MENU button
FUNC button
To
BALANCE
Choose a white-balance setting
WHITE
Fine-tune white balance/
select a preset value for white
balance
SENSITIVITY
Set sensitivity (ISO equivalency)
press
Sub-command dial
Exposure compensation
Exposure mode button
Main command dial
White-balance button
button
Thumbnail button
and viewrotate
pg. 64
pg. 66
pg. 62
14
Page 28
To
Choose the exposure mode
press
MODE
rotateand view
GETTING ST
pp.
84–93
Choose a combination of aperture and shutter speed (pro-
grammed auto exposure mode)
Choose a shutter speed (shutter-priority auto or manual ex-
posure mode)
EXPOSURE
Choose an aperture (aperturepriority auto or manual expo-
sure mode)
Set or cancel auto bracketing
Choose the number of exposures and exposure compensa-
tion for auto bracketing
Choose a value for exposure
compensation
FLASH
Set the flash sync mode (when
using optional Nikon Speedlight)
—
—
—
pg. 100
pg. 100
pg. 110
ARTED—GETTING
pg. 85
pg. 86,
pg. 90
pg. 88,
TO KNO
pg. 90
W THE CAMERA
pg. 98
15
Page 29
Getting to Know the Camera (continued)
Using the Multi Selector
GETTING STARTED—GETTING TO KNOW THE CAMERA
Press the multi selector up, down, left, or right to perform the following operations.
Press
Highlight menu items
To highlight menu items or options, press the multi selector up or down.
Select menu items
Press the multi selector to the right to select the highlighted menu item or
option (note that some menus do not allow you to make a selection by
pressing the multi selector to the right). Selecting a menu item will some-
times display a new sub-menu of options.
Return to the previous menu without making selection
To return to the previous menu without making a selection, press the multi
selector to the left (note that you can not exit from some menus by pressing
the multi selector to the left).
Choose the focus area
To select any of the five focus areas, press the multi selector up, down, left, or
right.
Highlight thumbnails
To highlight a thumbnail in the thumbnail display or in a thumbnail menu,
press the multi selector up, down, left, or right.
Operation
16
Page 30
Using the Camera Menus
Changes to a variety of settings can be made with the help of menus that appear in
the camera monitor. Four menus are available, each of which controls a different
aspect of camera operation.
MenuFunction
Advanced playback operations, such as automated play-
PLAYBACK
back (“slide shows”), deleting multiple images, and
pp. 186-187
choosing the folder for playback.
Advanced shooting options, such as image quality and
SHOOTING
AF-area mode. Many of these functions can also be
accessed using the buttons and command dials. This
pp. 188-189
menu is not available in playback mode.
CUSTOM
SETUP
Fine details of camera operation. This menu is not available in playback mode.
Basic camera setup (e.g., formatting memory cards, setting the time and date).
pp. 155-185
pp. 190-191
Viewing the Menus
When the camera is on, the men us can be displayed by pressing the
PLAYBACK MENU
Delete
Slide Show
Protect
Hide Image
Print Set
Folder Designate
Display Mode
D1X
N
button.
Press the button a second time to exit the menu. If any images have been
recorded to the memory card, the most recent image will be displayed. In single-frame,
continuous, self-timer, and PC modes, pressing the shutter-release button halfway clears
the menu from the screen and focuses the camera, readying it for the next shot.
GETTING ST
ARTED—GETTING
TO KNO
W THE CAMERA
Exiting the Menus
In single-frame, continuous, self-timer,
clears the menu from the screen and focuses the camera, readying it for the next shot. The
menu can be cleared from the screen in all modes by pressing the button or turning the
camera off and then on again. When the camer a is in playback mode, the menu can also be
cleared from the screen by selecting another mode.
and PC
modes, pressing the shutter-release button halfway
17
Page 31
Getting to Know the Camera (continued)
Choosing a Menu
When the mode dial is set to PLAY, pressing the button displa ys the playback
GETTING STARTED—GETTING TO KNOW THE CAMERA
menu. In single-frame, continuous, self-timer, and PC modes, the shooting menu will be
displayed. Unlock the multi selector and press the multi selector up or down to display
additional menus. Press the multi selector to the right to enter the selected menu.
SET UP MENU
Format
Language
Video Output
Date
GPS Input
LCD Brightness
Monitor Off
E
NTSC
OFF
1
20
If you have already highlighted an item in the menu, press the multi selector to the
left so that no item is highlighted, and then select another menu as described above.
Making a Selection
Press the multi selector up or down to highlight a menu item, then press the selector to the
right. If more options are available f or the selected item, a sub-menu will be displayed; press
the multi selector up or down to highlight the desired option, then press the selector to the
right or press the
button to put your choice into effect and return to the main menu.
SET UP MENU
Format
Language
Video Output
Date
GPS Input
LCD Brightness
Monitor Off
E
NTSC
OFF
1
20
SET UP MENU
Format
Language
Video Output
Date
GPS Input
LCD Brightness
Monitor Off
E
NTSC
OFF
1
20
SET UP MENU
Language
OK
Changes to settings take effect as soon as a selection is made. To go back one step
without making a selection, press the multi selector to the left.
The Playback Menu
The playback menu can only be displayed when a memory card is inser ted in the camera.
Some menu items may not be available while images are being recorded to the memory card.
If the selector can not be pressed to the right then please use the button to put your
choice into effect and return to the main menu.
18
Page 32
TUTORIAL
• Taking Photographs
• First Steps ..........pp. 20–31
................................. pp.32–50
About This Section
In this section, you will learn how to set up your camera for use and master the basics of simple
“point-and-shoot” photography.
19
Page 33
First Steps
Before using your camera for the first time, you will need complete the steps shown
below. More information on the topics covered in this section may be found in the
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
chapters “Custom Settings and Other Menus” and “Technical Notes.”
TUTORIAL: FIRST STEPS
STEP 1
Inserting a Battery .............................................................pp. 22–23
STEP 2
Attaching a Lens ................................................................pp. 24–25
STEP 3
Inserting a Memory Card ................................................pp. 26–27
STEP 4
Choosing a Language ........................................................pp. 28–29
STEP 5
Setting the Time and Date...............................................pp. 30–31
20
Page 34
SEE ALSO
• Caring for the Camera and Battery ............................vi–vii
In this step, you will inser t a battery and check the battery level. Your camera uses a
rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) power source, the EN-4 battery pack,
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
which is available from Nikon for separate purchase. Contact a Nikon-authorized
retailer or representative for information on purchasing EN-4 battery packs.
.1 Charge the battery pack
1
Charge the EN-4 before use for the first time.
To maximize shooting time, battery packs should
be fully charged before use. The EN-4 can be
charged in about ninety minutes using the
MH-16 Quick Charger (available separately).
.2 Insert the battery pack
1
Turn the camera off before inserting or removing the battery pack (A). Open
the battery pack latch (B) and insert the battery pack into the camera (C).
ABC
.3 Latch the battery pack
1
Battery Chargers for the EN-4
In addition to the MH-16, the EN-4 can be recharged using the MH-17 Quick Charger (which
plugs into vehicle cigarette lighters), the MH-15 Quick Charger for F100 film cameras, and the
EH-3 Quick Charger for E3/E3s digital cameras.
For more information on :
pg. 202 Optional accessories
22
Page 36
.4 Check the amount of charge remaining
1
Turn the camera on (A) and confirm the battery level in the control panel on
top of the camera (B).
AB
Battery fully charged
Low battery
Ready a fully-charged spare battery pack (the metering indicator [
, ] in the viewfinder will blink to warn that the battery is low, and
the display in the viewfinder will turn off to save power when no operations are performed)
Battery exhausted
No photographs can be taken until the battery has been replaced
Removing Battery Packs
To remove the battery pack from the camera, unlatch the battery pack and slide it out. Do not
remove the battery without first turning the power off.
STEP 1
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
,
Auto Power Off
If no operations are performed for about six seconds, all indicators in the viewfinder and rear
control panel will turn off, together with the shutter-speed and aperture displays in the control
panel on top of the camera. Press the shutter-release button halfway to reactivate the display.
Note that when using the portrait-mode shutter-release button, you will need to unlock the
button using the lock release.
15—Auto Meter-Off Delay ( pg. 168)
The time delay for automatic meter switch-off can be set to four, six, eight, or sixteen seconds
using Custom Setting 15.
23
Page 37
STEP 2
—Attaching a Lens
2
To take full advantage of the complete range of camera features, we recommend
that you use a type G or D AF Nikkor CPU lens.
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
CPU lenses have CPU
contacts.
.1 Attach a lens to the camera body
2
Turn the camera off before attaching or removing
lenses (A). Keeping the mounting mark on the
lens aligned with the mounting mark on the camera body, position the lens in the camera’s bayonet
mount and then, being careful not to press the
lens-release button, rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it locks into place (B).
If no lens is attached, or if the lens mounted on the
camera is not a CPU lens,
aperture display in the viewfinder and the control
panel on top of the camera when the camera is
turned on. If the exposure mode is set to programmed auto or shutterpriority auto, the exposure-mode indicator will blink to warn that the camera
will in fact function as though set to aperture-priority auto.
When attaching or removing the body cap or lenses, care should be observed to prevent dirt
or other foreign substances from entering the camera body. The presence of foreign bodies
inside the camera could affect your photographs. When changing lenses or replacing the body
cap, hold the camera with the base down or tilted so that the lens mount faces the ground. Be
sure to replace the body cap when no lens is in place.
For more information on:
Type G lensType D lens
A
B
will appear in the
pg. 198 Compatible lenses
24
Page 38
.2 Set the lens aperture to the minimum setting
2
2
f
t
m
2
8
7
0
5
0
3
5
2
8
8
5
1
0
5
2
2
2
You will not need to perform this step if you are
using a type G lens (type G lenses are not equipped
with an aperture ring). If you are using another
type of lens, set the lens aperture to the highest fnumber (minimum aperture). If you do not intend
to set aperture manually with the lens aperture
ring, lock aperture at this setting (B).
If the lens is not set to the minimum aperture when
the camera is turned on, a blinking
indicator
will be displayed in the viewfinder and in the control panel on top of the camera. Photographs can
not be taken while this indicator is displayed.
When No Lens Is in Place
When no lens is in place, cover the lens mount with the BF-1A
body cap supplied with the camera. If the lens mount is not
covered, dust may find its way onto the mirror or viewfinder
screen.
STEP 2
A
B
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
Detaching the Lens
After confirming that the camera is off, turn the lens clockwise
while holding down the lens-release button.
22—Aperture Setting ( pg. 173)
By default, aperture is set automatically by the camera or (when the exposure mode is set to
manual or aper ture-priority auto) using the sub-command dial. Custom Setting 22 allows
aperture to be set manually using the lens aperture ring.
25
Page 39
STEP 3
—Inserting a Memory Card
3
In place of film, your Nikon digital camera uses CompactFlash memory cards to
store photographs. This step provides instructions on inserting and formatting memory
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
cards. When purchasing memory cards for use in your camera, refer to the list of
approved cards in “Technical Notes: Optional Accessories.”
.1 Open the card slot cover
3
Before inserting or removing memor y cards, be sure that the camera is off
(A). Open the door protecting the card-slot cover release button (B1) and
press the card-slot cover release button (B2) to open the card slot (B3).
A
.2 Insert the memory card
3
Slide the memory card into the card slot (A), stopping when the card terminals are fully inserted in the connectors at the back of the slot. The card
should be inserted with the label facing the ▲ CARD indicator at the entrance to the card slot. After the card is fully inser ted, fold the eject button
over and close the cover (B).
B
BA
Do not attempt to insert the memory card upside down or back to front, or use force when
inser ting the card. Failure to observe these precautions could damage the camera or card.
For more information on:
pg. 203 Approved memory cards
26
Page 40
Memory cards may be hot after use. Observe due caution during removal.
Format the memory card
Memory cards must be formatted before first use. To format the memory card, turn the
camera on (A) and hold the buttons down together for more than two seconds (B) (to
exit without formatting the card, press any other button). A blinking For (format) indicator will
appear in the control panel on top of the camera (C). To format the memory card, press the
buttons a second time. Note that formatting memor y cards permanently deletes any
data they may contain. Before for matting a card, be sure to make copies of data you would like
to keep.
A
When formatting is complete, the frame-number display in the control panel on top of the
camera will show 1, and the maximum number of shots that can be stored on the card at
current settings will be shown in both control panels (if more than a hundred exposures can be
stored on the card, the display will show FL).
BC
STEP 3
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
Removing the Memory Card
Memory cards can be removed
without loss of data when the cam-
era is off. Turn the camera off and
confirm that the access lamp is off.
Do not attempt to remove the card
while the access lamp is on; failure
to observe this precaution could
result in loss of data or in damage to the camera or card. Open the card slot cover, stand the
eject button up (A), and press it down (B1) to eject the card (B2).
AB
Format ( pg. 143)
Memory cards can also be formatted using the For m at option in the setup menu.
27
Page 41
STEP 4
—Choosing a Language
4
Camera menus and messages can be displayed in English, French, German, and Japanese. Before setting the time and date, choose a language for the camera menus as
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
described below.
.1 Display the camera menus
4
Turn the camera on (A) and press the
current operating mode will be displayed in the monitor (C).
ABC
.2 Display the SETUP menu
4
Unlock the multi selector and press it up or down (A) until the SETUP menu
is displayed (B).
AB
SET UP MENU
Format
Language
Video Output
Date
GPS Input
LCD Brightness
Monitor Off
button (B). The menu for the
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
White Bal
ISO
Assign FUNC
AF Area Mode
File No. Seq.
Command Lock
E
NTSC
OFF
1
20
NORM
125
OFF
OFF
.3 Highlight Language
4
Press the multi selector to the right to enter the SETUP menu, then press the
multi selector down until the second item from the top is highlighted (depending on the language currently selected, the second item from the top will
include the word Language or LANG).
SET UP MENU
Format
Language
Video Output
Date
GPS Input
LCD Brightness
Monitor Off
E
NTSC
OFF
1
20
28
Page 42
.4 Choose a language
4
Press the multi selector to the right to display the Language menu, then
press the multi selector up or down until the desired language is highlighted.
Press the multi selector to the right to put your choice into effect and return
to the SETUP menu.
SET UP MENU
Language
OK
STEP 4
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
29
Page 43
STEP 5
—Setting the Time and Date
5
The time and date is recorded whenever a photograph is taken. To ensure that the
correct information is recorded, set the camera’s internal clock-calendar to the cur-
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
rent time and date before using the camera for the first time.
.1 Display the camera menus
5
Turn the camera on (A) and press the
current operating mode will be displayed in the monitor (C).
ABC
.2 Display the SETUP menu
5
Unlock the multi selector and press it up or down (A) until the setup menu is
displayed (B).
AB
SET UP MENU
Format
Language
Video Output
Date
GPS Input
LCD Brightness
Monitor Off
button (B). The menu for the
PLAYBACK MENU
Delete
Slide Show
Protect
Hide Image
E
NTSC
OFF
1
20
Print Set
Folder Designate
Display Mode
D1X
N
.3 Display the Date menu
5
Press the multi selector to the right to enter the setup menu, then press the
multi selector up or down to highlight Date. Press the multi selector to the
right to display the Date menu.
SET UP MENU
Format
Language
Video Output
Date
GPS Input
LCD Brightness
Monitor Off
E
NTSC
OFF
1
20
30
Page 44
.4 Edit the date and time
5
Edit the selected item by pressing the multi selector up or down. Press the
multi selector to the right to highlight the year, month, date, hour, minute, or
second in blue.
SET UP MENU
Date
Set
YMD
HMS
.5 Exit the Date menu
5
To save changes to settings and return to the SETUP menu, press the
OK
button.
STEP 5
TUTORIAL—FIRST STEPS
The Clock Battery
The clock-calendar is powered by an independent battery with a life of about ten years. When
no charge remains, the clock battery indicator ()will appear in the control panel on top
of the camera. This will not affect camera operation, but the correct time and date will no
longer be displayed. Take the camera to a Nikon-authorized service center, where the battery
can be replaced for a fee.
The time and date can also be set using the BKT and buttons in combination with the main
command dial. For details, see “Technical Notes: Specifications.”
31
Page 45
Taking Photographs
Now that you have set up your camera, you are ready to take photographs. This
section describes how to take photographs using autofocus and programmed auto-
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
exposure for “point-and-shoot” photography that produces optimal results in most
situations, with no delay between shots to adjust camera settings. Additional information is available in the “Reference” section, as shown in the following chart.
TUTORIAL: TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
STEP 1
Adjusting Camera Settings .............................................pp. 36–42
STEP 2
Framing a Photograph .....................................................pg. 43
• Playback Menu Options ................................................
pp. 122–133
pp. 134–142
AKING PHO
TOGRAPHS
33
Page 47
STEP 0
—Before You Begin
0
Before taking a photograph with a new camera, be sure you have completed the
following steps:
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
.1 Turn the camera on and check the battery level
0
When the camera is turned on (A), the battery level is shown in the control
panel on top of the camera (B). Check the battery level as described in Step 1
of “First Steps” (
AB
.2 Check the number of exposures remaining
0
The number of photographs that can be stored on the memory card at current settings is shown in the top.
When this number reaches zero, the Cd (card) indicator in the viewfinder
and the CARD icons in the top and rear control panels will blink. Before you
will be able to take more photographs, you will need to delete some photos
or insert another memory card. You may also be able to take additional
photographs at a different image-quality setting.
pg. 23).
34
Page 48
.3 Adjust viewfinder diopter
0
Your Nikon camera is equipped with diopter adjustment to accommodate individual differences in
vision. To adjust viewfinder diopter, pull the diopter
knob out (1) and rotate it (2) until the focus brackets in the viewfinder are in sharp focus. Once you
have adjusted diopter to your satisfaction, push the
diopter knob back into the body of the camera.
Reset camera settings
When using the camera for the first time, you may want to clear
changes to camera and custom settings made by previous users.
After turning the camera on, you can restore settings to defaults
by holding the and buttons down together for more
than two seconds (two-button reset). For more information on
performing a two-button reset, see “Custom Settings and Other
Camera Menus: Two-Button Reset” ( pg. 184).
Frame Count
The frame number shown in the frame count display in the control panel on top of the camera
corresponds to the number of photos in the current folder on the memory card. The frame
count returns to 1 when a new folder is created.
STEP 0
TUTORIAL—T
AKING PHO
TOGRAPHS
35—Rear Control Panel Display ( pg. 183)
When Frame Count is selected for Custom Setting 35,
the number of exposures remaining will also be shown in
the rear control panel.
For more information on:
pg. 23 Checking the battery level
pg. 184 Resetting camera settings
pg. 104 Adjusting viewfinder diopter
pg. 140 Creating new folders
pg. 129 Deleting images
pg. 56 Image quality
35
Page 49
STEP 1
—Adjusting Camera Settings
1
This section describes how to take a photograph using single-frame mode, singleservo autofocus, matrix metering, programmed auto-exposure, a sensitivity (ISO
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
equivalency) setting of 125, a normal image quality setting, and auto white balance.
The description below assumes that you are using a type G or D AF-Nikkor lens.
These settings will produce optimal results in most situations, with no delay between
exposures to adjust camera settings for the next shot. To use these settings, adjust
camera controls as shown in the following steps. More information on the settings
described here is available on the pages listed below.
.1 Choose an operating mode ( pp. 52–55)
1
Hold the mode-dial lock release down and turn
the mode dial to S (single-frame mode). In this
mode, the camera will take a single photograph each
time the shutter-release button is pressed.
.2 Choose an image quality and format ( pp. 56–61)
1
This section describes how to take large color photographs at an image quality of JPEG Normal, which provides the best trade-off between file size and
image quality.
AB
PLAYBACK MENU
Delete
Slide Show
Protect
Hide Image
Print Set
Folder Designate
Display Mode
D1X
N
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
White Bal
ISO
Assign FUNC
AF Area Mode
File No. Seq.
Command Lock
NORM
125
OFF
OFF
C
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
White Bal
ISO
Assign FUNC
AF Area Mode
File No. Seq.
Command Lock
Press the button to display the cam-
NORM
era menus (A), then unlock the multi selector and press it up or down until the
125
shooting menu is displayed (B). Press the
multi selector to the right to enter the
OFF
shooting menu (C).
OFF
The Assign FUNC Menu ( pg. 116)
When Qual is selected in the Assign FUNC menu, image quality can be adjusted using the
button in combination with the command dials.
36
Page 50
STEP 1
DE
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
White Bal
ISO
Assign FUNC
AF Area Mode
File No. Seq.
Command Lock
NORM
125
OFF
OFF
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
Color
Resolution
NORM
Highlight Image Quality (D) and press the multi selector to the right to display the
Image Quality menu (E).
NORM
G
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
High
JPEG Fine
JPEG Normal
JPEG Basic
OK
F
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
Color
Resolution
Highlight Quality (F) and press the multi selector to the right to display the Quality
menu (G).
HI
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
High
JPEG Fine
JPEG Normal
JPEG Basic
OK
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
Color
Resolution
NORM
Highlight JPEG Normal (H) and press the multi selector to the right to put your
choice into effect and return to the Image Quality menu (I).
TUTORIAL—T
AKING PHO
TOGRAPHS
37
Page 51
STEP 1
—Adjusting Camera Settings (continued)
1
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
Repeat C–D to display the Image Quality menu, then highlight Color (J) and press
the multi selector to the right to display the Color menu (K).
Highlight Color (L) and press the multi selector to the right to put your choice into
effect and return to the Image Quality menu (M).
Repeat C–D to display the Image Quality menu, then highlight Resolution (N) and
press the multi selector to the right to display the Resolution menu (O).
JK
L
N
PQ
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
Color
Resolution
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
Color
Resolution
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
Color
Resolution
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Resolution
Large
Medium
NORM
NORM
NORM
OK
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Color
Color
B&W
M
O
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
Color
Resolution
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Resolution
Large
Medium
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
Color
Resolution
OK
NORM
OK
NORM
Highlight Large (P) and press the multi selector to the right to put your choice into
effect and return to the Image Quality menu (Q). Press the button to return to
the shooting menu.
38
Page 52
.3 Adjust sensitivity (ISO equivalency) ( pp. 62–63)
1
Holding the ISO button down (A), turn the main command dial (B) until 125
is shown in the top and the rear control panel (C). This sets the sensitivity (the
digital equivalent of film speed) to a value roughly equivalent to ISO 125.
ABC
.4 Choose a white-balance setting ( pp. 64–69)
1
Holding the
(auto white balance) is shown in the rear control panel (C). At this setting, the
camera will automatically adjust white balance to produce good results for
most common light sources.
ABC
button down (A), turn the main command dial (B) until A
STEP 1
TUTORIAL—T
AKING PHO
TOGRAPHS
.5 Choose a focus mode ( pp. 70–71)
1
Tur n the focus-mode selector until it clicks into place
pointing to S (single-servo autofocus). The camera
will automatically focus on the subject in the se-
lected focus area when the shutter-release button
is pressed halfway. Photographs can only be taken
when the camera is in focus. Do not attempt to
adjust focus using the lens focusing ring.
39
Page 53
STEP 1
—Adjusting Camera Settings (continued)
1
.6 Choose the AF-area mode ( pp. 74–77)
1
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
Set the AF-area mode to single-area AF using the shooting menu as described
below.
A
PLAYBACK MENU
Delete
Slide Show
Protect
Hide Image
Print Set
Folder Designate
Display Mode
D1X
N
B
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
White Bal
ISO
Assign FUNC
AF Area Mode
File No. Seq.
Command Lock
NORM
125
OFF
OFF
C
DE
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
White Bal
ISO
Assign FUNC
AF Area Mode
File No. Seq.
Command Lock
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
White Bal
ISO
Assign FUNC
AF Area Mode
File No. Seq.
Command Lock
Press the button to display the cam-
NORM
era menus (A), then unlock the multi selector and press it up or down until the
125
shooting menu is displayed (B). Press the
multi selector to the right to enter the
OFF
shooting menu (C).
OFF
NORM
125
OFF
OFF
SHOOTING MENU
AF Area Mode
Dynamic Area AF
Single Area AF
OK
OK
Highlight AF Area Mode (D) and press the multi selector to the right to display the
AF Area Mode menu (E).
FG
SHOOTING MENU
AF Area Mode
Dynamic Area AF
Single Area AF
OK
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
White Bal
ISO
Assign FUNC
AF Area Mode
File No. Seq.
Command Lock
NORM
125
OFF
OFF
Highlight Single Area AF (F) and press the multi selector to the right to put your
choice into effect and return to the shooting menu (G). Press the button to
clear the menu from the monitor.
40
Page 54
.7 Select a focus area ( pg. 73)
1
Unlock the multi selector (A) and press it up and down, left and right until the
center focus area is selected in the viewfinder and the control panel on top of
the camera (B). Return the multi selector lock to the locked position.
AB
STEP 1
TUTORIAL—T
AKING PHO
.8 Choose a metering method ( pp. 82–83)
1
Keeping the metering-selector lock-release held down (A-1), turn the metering selector to
appear in the viewfinder (B). Matrix metering uses information from all areas
of the frame to determine exposure, producing the best possib le exposure
for the entire frame.
AB
The Assign FUNC Menu ( pg. 116)
When AF Area is selected in the Assign FUNC menu, AF-area mode can be adjusted using
the button in combination with the main command dial.
(matrix metering; A-2). The matrix-metering indicator will
41
TOGRAPHS
Page 55
STEP 1
—Adjusting Camera Settings (continued)
1
.9 Choose an exposure mode ( pp. 84–95)
1
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
With the MODE button held down (A), turn the main command dial (B) until
the exposure-mode indicator in the top control panel shows
auto exposure; C). The camera will automatically adjust shutter speed and
aperture to produce the optimal exposure for your subject. Exposure is set
according to the camera’s exposure program.
ABC
(programmed
Non-CPU Lenses
Programmed auto exposure is only available when a CPU lens is used. When a non-CPU lens
is mounted on the camera, the exposure mode will automatically be set to aperture-priority
auto. The exposure-mode indicator in the top control panel will show a flashing , the exposure-mode indicator in the viewfinder, . Aperture will be shown in the control panel and
viewfinder as . Aperture must be set manually using the lens aperture ring.
42
Page 56
—Framing a Photograph
2
When framing photographs, hold the camera as shown below, with your elbow
propped lightly against your torso for support. Hold the hand-grip in your right hand
and cradle the camera or lens with your left. The shutter-release button for portrait
photographs can be used when the camera is in vertical shooting (B).
AB
STEP 2
TUTORIAL—T
AKING PHO
The recommended stance for taking photographs is with one foot a half-pace in
front of the other and your upper body in a stable position.
Avoid taking photographs with the camera focused on the sun or other strong light source.
Intense light may cause deterioration in the charge-coupled device (CCD) that the camera
uses in place of film. It may also produce a white blur effect in the final photograph.
Shutter Speed and Camera Shake
To prevent blurring caused by camera shake, the shutter speed should be faster than the
inverse of the focal length of the lens, in seconds (for example, if the lens has a focal length of
50 mm, shutter speed should be faster than 1/50 s). Use of a tripod is recommended when
shooting at slower shutter speeds.
43
TOGRAPHS
Page 57
STEP 3
—Focusing
3
In single-servo AF, the camera focuses on the subject in the selected focus area when
the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Center the focus brackets on your
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
subject (A) and press the shutter-release button halfway (B).
AB
44
Page 58
The camera will adjust focus automatically, and the results of the autofocus operation will be displayed in the viewfinder.
STEP 3
TUTORIAL—T
Viewfinder Display
●
Meaning
The subject is in focus.
The camera is focused on an area between camera and
subject.
The camera is focused on an area behind the subject.
The focus indicator flashes to warn that the camera is unable
to focus using autofocus. For more information on what to
do when the camera can not focus using autofocus, see
“Getting Good Results with Autofocus” ( pg. 80).
AKING PHO
TOGRAPHS
The viewfinder shows approximately 96% of the image actually exposed on the CCD. The area
that appears in the final photo will be slightly larger than the scene visible through the viewfinder.
For more information on:
pg. 73 Focus-area selection
pg. 78 Focus lock
pg. 104 Viewfinder diopter
45
Page 59
STEP 4
—Checking Exposure
4
When the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, the
camera will automatically adjust shutter speed and ap-
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
erture for optimal results. Check the shutter speed and
aper ture indicators in the viewfinder before shooting. If
the photo will be over- or under-exposed, one of the
following indicators will appear in the viewfinder and in
the control panel on top of the camera.
Indicator
Meaning
HI
Lo
2—EV Steps for Exposure Control ( pg. 161)
By default, aperture and shutter speed are shown in the smallest possible increments. Use
Custom Setting 2 to change the size of the increments used when displaying aperture, shutter
speed, and exposure compensation.
46
Photo will be overexposed. Use a neutral density (ND) filter.
Photo will be underexposed. Use a flash.
Page 60
—Shooting
5
Press the shutter-release button smoothly all the way
down to take a photograph.
STEP 5
TUTORIAL—T
While the photograph is being recorded to the memory card, the card access lamp
will light. Do not eject the memory card, turn the camera off, remove the batter y, or
unplug the AC adapter (available separately) until the lamp has stopped blinking.
Removing the card or cutting pow er in these circumstances could result in loss of
data.
Your camera is equipped with a combined electronic (CCD) and mechanical shutter. This
shutter operates on a different principle from the mechanical shutters found in film cameras.
As a result, the interval between the sounds made by the shutter and mirror will not decrease
past a certain point, even at high shutter speeds.
1—Image Review ( pg. 161)
AKING PHO
TOGRAPHS
Using this setting, you can choose whether images are displayed automatically in the LCD
monitor while they are recorded to the memory card, or if images are only displayed when the
button is pressed.
47
Page 61
STEP 6
—Checking the Results
6
Photographs stored on the memory card can be displayed at the touch of a button,
even when the camera is not in playback mode . This allows the results of a photo-
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
graph to be confirmed almost instantly. If you are not satisfied with the photograph,
you can adjust settings and take another shot. Any shots you do not want to keep
can be deleted immediately.
.1 Turn the monitor on
6
Press the
graph will be displayed in the monitor (B).
AB
I
f the memory card contains no photographs, the message, “No image in cur-
rent folder” will be displayed. Press the
.2 Select a photograph
6
To view the other photographs in memory, press the multi selector up or
down. Press up to view photographs taken before the current photograph,
down to view photographs taken after the current photogr aph. Keep the
multi selector pressed to scroll rapidly to the desired fr ame number. When the
last photograph taken is selected, pressing the multi selector down will display
the first photograph on the memor y card. Pressing the selector up when the
first image in memory is selected will display the most recent photograph.
button to turn the monitor on (A). The most recent photo-
button to turn the monitor off.
The Button
If you press the button to turn the monitor on after taking a photograph, the most recent
photograph will be displayed. If you turned the monitor off with the menus displayed, however,
the menus will be display ed when you next turn the monitor on.
18—Monitor Off Delay ( pg. 170)
By default, the monitor will turn off automatically to save power if no oper ations are performed
for twenty seconds. Custom Setting 18 can be used to adjust the length of time before the
monitor turns off automatically.
48
Page 62
If the card contains multiple images, you may find it convenient to select the
image you wish to view from a menu of thumbnail images, rather than scrolling through the photos one frame at a time. Turn the main command dial
To zoom in on the selected thumbnail or on the photograph displayed in
single-frame review, press the
photograph will be enlarged to fill the monitor (B).
To view other areas of the photo, press the multi selector. To cancel zoom and
retur n to normal review, press the
Custom Setting 36 must be set to 1 to enable zooming and that in this case,
the buffer memory size is reduced by one-third.
A
B
button (A). The center portion of the
button a second time. Note that
➔
For approximately two seconds after you press the button to zoom in
on the image, or after you press the multi selector to scroll the image , a
thumbnail showing your current position in the image will appear in the bottom right corner of the display.
TOGRAPHS
49
Page 63
STEP 6
—Checking the Results (continued)
6
.4 View photo information on the selected photograph
6
TUTORIAL—TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
To view photo information on an image displayed in single-frame review, press
the multi selector right or left (to learn more about the photo information
display, see “Reference: Playback”).
AB
.5 Delete undesired photographs
6
In single-frame or thumbnail review, pressing the
current image for deletion. A confirmation dialog will be displayed (B), press
a second time to delete the photograph and return to single-frame or
thumbnail review. Pressing any other button cancels the delete operation,
leaving the selected photograph untouched.
button (A) selects the
A
.6 Return to shooting mode
6
Pressing the
returns the camera to shooting mode. Pressing the shutter-release button
halfway also turns the monitor off and readying it for the next shot.
50
button at any time during review turns the monitor off and
B
Delete Images?
Page 64
REFERENCE
• Playback ................ pp. 120–147
• Connecting to a Computer
.................................... pp. 148–154
• Advanced Photography
.......................... pp. 52–119
About This Section
This section covers details of photography, playback, and connecting your camera to a computer.
51
Page 65
Shooting Modes
Using the mode dial, you can choose between single-frame, continuous, and selftimer modes.
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—SHOOTING MODES
To choose an operating mode, press the mode-dial lock button and turn the mode dial to the desired setting.
The following modes are available for shooting photographs:
ModeDescription
The camera takes one photograph each time the shutter-release button
is pressed. The card access lamp will light while photographs are being
S
Single-frame
C
Continuous
Self-timer
recorded to the memory card. While photographs are being sav ed, any
new photographs will be stored in a temporary memory buffer before
being saved to the card. When this buffer is full, the shutter release will
be disabled until enough memory is available in the buffer for the next
photograph.
Photographs are taken at a maximum rate of approximately three frames
per second while the shutter-release button is held down. Photographs
are stored in a temporary memory buffer, which can hold a maximum of
nine photographs. Additional photographs can be taken as soon as sufficient memory is available in the buffer. A maximum of nine photographs
(or six images at an image-quality setting of RAW) can be taken before
the buffer fills; if ON is chosen for Custom Setting 36, the maximum is
six photographs (four RAW images).
Use this mode to reduce blurring caused by camera shake or to appear
in photographs you take yourself.
Shooting Speed (Continuous Mode)
The rate of approximately three frames per second quoted above is the average obtained at a
temperature of 20 °C (68 °F) using continuous-servo AF, manual exposure, a shutter speed of
1
/
s or faster, and an aper ture smaller than the maximum aperture.
250
52
Page 66
Remaining Exposures (Continuous Mode)
When the shutter-release button is pressed halfway in continuous mode, the number of consecutive photographs that can be
taken before the buffer fills is displayed in the control panel on
top of the camera. This indicator shows nine when the buffer is
empty, and is reduced by one for each photograph in the buffer.
Note that depending on the amount of memory remaining on
the memory card, the maximum number of photogr aphs that
can be taken in a single sequence may be less than nine. In
single-frame mode, this indicator shows the number of exposures remaining.
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—SHOO
TING MODES
53
Page 67
Shooting Modes (continued)
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—SHOOTING MODES
Turning the Camera Off
Do not remove the memory card from the camera while images are being transferred from the
buffer to the card (if the buffer contains nine photogr aphs, at least 15 seconds will be required).
Failure to observe this precaution could result in loss of data or in damage to the camera or the
card. If power switch is turned to the off position while data remain in the buffer, the camera
will turn off once the image that is cur rently being written to the card has been saved. Anyother images remaining in the buffer will be lost. If the battery is exhausted while photo-
graphs are being shot in continuous mode, the shutter release will be disabled and all photographs in the buffer will be recorded to the memory card.
The length of time required to record photographs to a Nikon EC-96CF (96-MB) CompactFlash
card is shown in the following table:
Image
quality
High
JPEG Fine
JPEG
Normal
JPEG
Basic
File format
YCbCr-TIFF
RGB-TIFF
RAW (uncompressed)
RAW (compressed)
JPEG (1 : 4)
JPEG (1 : 8)
JPEG (1 : 16)
Image
size
Large
Medium
Large
Medium
–
Large
Medium
Large
Medium
Large
Medium
Approximate
recording time
240 s (8 frames)
130 s (9 frames)
215 s (5 frames)
190 s (9 frames)
123 s (6 frames)
90 s (6 frames)
60 s (9 frames)
35 s (9 frames)
55 s (9 frames)
20 s (9 frames)
30 s (9 frames)
15 s (9 frames)
*The rate at which images are recorded varies with the make of memory card used.
54
Page 68
25—C-Mode Shooting Speed ( pg. 176)
The rate the camera takes photographs in continuous mode can be adjusted using Custom
Setting 25.
26—C-Mode Max Shots ( pg. 176)
Using Custom Setting 26, the maximum number of shots that can be taken in a single sequence
in continuous mode can be set to any value between one and nine (or between one and six in
RAW mode) or to any number between one and six (one and four in RAW mode) when ON
is chosen for Custom Setting 36.
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—SHOO
TING MODES
55
Page 69
Image Quality
The image quality setting controls image quality and image format, which includes
image type (color or black-and-white) and image size (in pixels).
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—IMAGE QUALITY
Image quality settings can be chosen from the image-quality
sub-menu, which can be displayed by highlighting Image
Quality in the shooting menu and pressing the multi selector to the right.
The following options are available:
OptionDescription
Choose the amount photographs will be compressed. Four options are
Quality
available: High, JPEG Fine, JPEG Normal, and JPEG Basic. Selecting High
gives you a further choice of two or (depending on the option selected
in Custom Setting 28) three file formats: YCbCr-TIFF, RGB-TIFF, and RAW.
ColorChoose whether images will be recorded in color or in black-and-white.
Resolution
Choose from Large (3,008 × 1,960 pixels) or Medium (2,000 ×1,312 pixels)
Choosing the Compression Ratio
Highlighting Quality in the image-quality menu and pressing
the multi selector to the right displays a menu of image qual-
ity (compression ratio) settings.
The Quality menu contains the options listed below.
High
Highlighting High in the image-quality menu and pressing
the multi selector to the right displays a menu of file-format
options. HI-quality images can be stored as uncompressed
TIFF or RAW data or (depending on the option selected
using Custom Setting 28) as RAW data compressed using a
“lossless” algorithm that has no effect on image quality.
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
Color
Resolution
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality
High
JPEG Fine
JPEG Normal
JPEG Basic
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Quality/High
YCbCr
RGB
NEF(RAW)
NORM
OK
OK
For more information on:
pg. 188 The shooting menu
56
Page 70
The following options are available:
OptionDescription
Images are saved in uncompressed YCbCr-TIFF format, where the picture data is represented in one luminence (Y) and two color channels
(Cb and Cr). The two color channnels occupy the same space as the
YCbCr
RGB
NEF (RAW)
luminance channnel and the file size is therefore two-thirds of the size
of an RGB-TIFF file. YCbCr is a more efficient mode of image represen-
tation than RGB and has the same quality but occupies less space. Use
YCbCr if seeking the best combination of high quality and lowest file
size in an uncompressed finished file. This file type can be viewed using
Nikon View 4 or Nikon Capture 2.
Images are saved in uncompressed RGB-TIFF. This file format is supported in a wide variety of imaging applications.
Raw 12-bit data from the CCD are saved directly to the memory card in
Nikon Electronic Image Format (NEF). Files of this type can only be
viewed using Nikon Capture 2 or Nikon View 4.
JPEG Fine
Images are JPEG-compressed at a ratio of approximately 1 : 4.
JPEG Normal
Images are JPEG-compressed at a ratio of approximately 1 : 8.
JPEG Basic
Images are JPEG-compressed at a ratio of approximately 1 : 16.
After highlighting an image-quality or file-format option, press the multi selector to
the right to return to the Image Quality menu. Press the
button to return to
the shooting menu.
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—IMA
GE QU
ALITY
28—NEF(RAW) Image Save ( pg. 178)
A setting of RAW is only available if Uncompressed or Compressed has been chosen
from the NEF(RAW) Image Save menu (Custom Setting 28). If Compressed is chosen,
RAW images will be compressed from fifty to sixty percent.
57
Page 71
Image Quality (continued)
Choosing the Image Type
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—IMAGE QUALITY
Highlighting Color in the image-quality menu and pressing
the multi selector to the right displays the menu of color
options shown at right. Highlight Color (for color images)
or B&W (for black-and-white) by pressing the multi selector up or down. Your choice will have no effect on the number of images that can be recorded to the memory card. The
Color menu is not available at a setting of High > NEF (RAW).
Once you have chosen the image type, pressing the multi selector to the right will
return you to the Image Quality menu.
Choosing the Image Size
Highlighting Resolution in the image-quality menu and pressing the multi selector to the right displays a menu of size
settings.
The following options are available:
OptionDescription
LargeImages are recorded at a size of 3,008 ×1,960 pixels.
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Color
Color
B&W
SHOOTING MENU
Image Quality
Resolution
Large
Medium
OK
OK
MediumImages are recorded at a size of 2,000 × 1,312 pixels.
Choosing Large increases the number of pixels in the image, increasing file size and
reducing the number of images that can be stored on a single memory card. The
Resolution menu is not available at a setting of High > NEF (RAW). When
RAW images are viewed using Nikon Capture 2 or Nikon View 4, they will be
displayed at 3,008 × 1,960 pixels.
After choosing a size option, press the multi selector to the right to return to the
Image Quality menu. Press the
button to return to the shooting menu.
58
Page 72
Understanding the Image-Quality Display
The current image-quality setting is displayed in the
rear control panel as shown at right. An image-quality setting of JPEG Normal is shown as NORM, a file
format of YCbCr-TIFF as CbCr, and an image type
of black-and-white as B/W.
Image type (black-andwhite images only)
Image size
ADVANCED PHO
Image quality
File format
Image Quality and File Size
The approximate number of images that can be stored on a 96-MB memory card at
different combinations of image quality, image size, and file format is shown in the
following table (image type has no effect on file size and hence bears no relation to
the number of images that can be stored on a memory card).
Image
quality
High
JPEG Fine
JPEG
Normal
JPEG
Basic
* The actual file size (and hence number of images that can be stored on the memory
card) JPEG-compressed image will depend on the particular subject and composition. In
general the more detail present in an image, the larger the resulting JPEG file.
** Compressed fifty to sixty percent over RAW (uncompressed)
† Although the number of exposures remaining shown in the control panels is the same as
for RAW (uncompressed), images are compressed as they are saved, with the result that
a larger number of images can be stored on the memory card.
File format
YCbCr-TIFF
RGB-TIFF
RAW (uncompressed)
RAW (compressed)
JPEG (1 : 4)
JPEG (1 : 8)
JPEG (1 : 16)
Image
size
Large
Medium
Large
Medium
Large2.8 MB29
Medium1.3 MB66
Large1.4 MB59
Medium
Large
Medium
Approx.
file size
11.2 MB
5.0 MB
16.9 MB5
7.5 MB12
–
7.6 MB
**
640 KB132
720 KB118
320 KB256
Approx. number of
images (96 MB card)*
8
17
11
†
59
TOGRAPHY—IMA
GE QU
ALITY
Page 73
Image Quality (continued)
Using the Button to Set Image Quality
When Qual is chosen in the Assign FUNC sub-menu, image quality will be as-
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—IMAGE QUALITY
signed to the
access the camera menus.
Pressing the button (A), rotate the main command dial (B) until the desired
1
image quality (compression ratio) setting is showing in the rear control panel (C).
button, allowing you to adjust image quality without having to
A
As the main command dial is rotated, settings will change in the order shown
below (an image quality of JPEG Normal appears in the rear control panel as
NORM).
Pressing the button, rotate the sub-command dial until the desired combi-
2
nation of file format (High image quality only), image type, and image size is shown
in the rear control panel.
ABC
For more information on:
BC
HIFINENORMBASIC
pg. 116 The Assign FUNC sub-menu
pg. 8The rear control panel display (image quality)
60
Page 74
As the sub-command dial is rotated, image for mat settings—file format (High
image quality only), image type, and image size—will change in the order shown
below (a file format of YCbCr-TIFF is shown in the rear control panel as CbCr).
HIGH Image Quality
RGB
M
RGB
B/W
M
CbCr
M
CbCr
B/W
M
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—IMA
RAW
FINE, NORMAL, BASIC Image Quality
M
CbCr
B/W
L
B/W
CbCr
M
RGB
L
B/W
L
L
RGB
L
B/W
L
An image type of black-and-white is shown in the rear control panel as B/W. If
no indicator appears, the image type is color.
Image File Names
Photographs taken with cameras in the D1 series are saved as image files with a file name of the
form “DSC_nnnn.xxx”, where “nnnn” is a four-digit n umber from 0001 to 9999 assigned auto-
matically by the camera and “xxx” is a three letter extension (“NEF” for RAW images, “TIF” for
RGB-TIFF or YCbCr-TIFF, and “JPG” for JPEG images created at settings of JPEG Fine, JPEG
Normal, or JPEG Basic).
28—NEF(RAW) Image Save ( pg. 178)
A setting of RAW is only available if Uncompressed or Compressed has been chosen
from the NEF(RAW) Image Save menu (Custom Setting 28).
61
GE QU
ALITY
Page 75
Sensitivity (ISO Equivalency)
If desired, sensitivity can be altered from the default setting, which is roughly equivalent to ISO 125. Sensitivity can be raised to take photographs in poor light.
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—SENSITIVITY (ISO EQUIVALENCY)
Adjusting Sensitivity with the Button
The sensitivity (ISO equivalency) setting can be adjusted by pressing the ISO button
(A) and rotating the main command dial (B). The current sensitivity setting is shown
in the top and the rear control panel (C) while the ISO button is pressed.
ABC
As the main command dial is rotated, settings will change in the order shown below.
Adjusting Sensitivity from the Shooting Menu
Sensitivity can also be set to ISO equivalents of approximately
ISO 125 to ISO 800 using the ISO option in the shooting
menu. In the shooting menu, highlight ISO and press the
multi selector to the right to display a menu of sensitivity
settings. Press the multi selector up or down to highlight the
desired setting, then press the selector to the right to put
your choice into effect and return to the shooting menu.
SHOOTING MENU
ISO
1 2 5
1 6 0
2 0 0
2 5 0
3 2 0
OK
For more information on:
pg. 188 The shooting menu
62
Page 76
Increased Sensitivity Settings
Note that raising sensitivity increases the amount of “noise” visible in the final photograph.
20—ISO Step Value ( pg. 172)
By default, adjustments to sensitivity are made in increments equivalent to 1/3EV (1/3 step).
Custom Setting 20 can be used to set the size of the increments to 1/2 or 1 step.
1
/2-step increments
1-step increments
If possible, the current value for sensitivity is maintained when a new ISO step value is selected.
If the value currently selected for sensitivity is not available at the new ISO step value, sensitivity
will be rounded up to the nearest available setting.
31—ISO Boost ( pg. 180)
Sensitivity can be raised by roughly one or two steps over ISO 800 equivalent. If ISO is
selected for Custom Setting 35, or if the ISO button is pressed when Frame Count is se-
lected, the rear control panel will show (sensitivity increased by approximately one step
over ISO 800 equivalent) or (sensitivity increased by approximately two steps over ISO
800 equivalent).
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—SENSITIVITY (ISO EQUIV
ALENCY)
Sensitivity raised by roughly one
step (1 EV) over ISO 800
Sensitivity raised by roughly two
steps (2 EV) over ISO 800
63
Page 77
White Balance
Although the color of light reflected by an object varies with the color of the light
source, the human brain is able to adapt to changes in lighting, ensuring that we see
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—WHITE BALANCE
white objects as white under most lighting conditions. A digital camera is able to
mimic this adjustment so that colors that appear white to the human eye also appear
white in your photographs. This adjustment is known as “white balance.”
To choose a white balance setting for the current light source, press the
(A) and rotate the main command dial (B). The current white balance setting will be
displayed in the rear control panel (C) while the
ABC
As the main command dial is rotated, settings will change in the order shown below.
APRE
button is pressed.
button
Setting
A
Auto
Incandescent
Fluorescent
Direct sunlight
Flash
Cloudy
Shade
PRE
Preset
64
Color temp.
4,200–7,000 K
(approx.)
3,000 K
(approx.)
4,200 K
(approx.)
5,200 K
(approx.)
5,400 K
(approx.)
6,000 K
(approx.)
8,000 K
(approx.)
—
Description
White balance adjustment based on color temperature information from a 1,005-pixel CCD sensor.
Use when taking photographs indoors under incandescent light.
Use when taking photographs indoors under fluorescent light.
Use this setting when taking photographs in direct sunlight (daylight).
Use this setting with Nikon Speedlights. With other
flashes, use preset white balance.
Use when taking photographs under over cast skies
(daylight).
Use when taking photographs in the shade under sunny
skies (daylight).
Use this setting to match white balance to the light
source. The camera can store up to three settings.
Page 78
Auto white balance (A) can be used with most common light sources. To match
white balance to a specific light source, select the appropriate setting from the list
above. If desired, these white-balance settings (with the exception of preset white
balance) can be fine tuned to match a particular light source (
tively, preset white balance (
pg. 67) can be used to set white balance to a mea-
pg. 66). Alterna-
sured value.
Auto White Balance
Auto white balance is adjusted when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. If you press
the shutter-release button all the way down in a single motion, white balance for the first
photograph may not accurately match the light source.
White Balance Measurements
White-balance measurements are performed using a through-the-lens metering system. Even
if the subject and camera are under different lighting, the camer a will be able to adjust white
balance to suit the subject when auto or preset white balance is used.
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—WHITE BALANCE
Color Temperature
The perceived color of a light source varies with the viewer and other conditions. Color
temperature is an objective measure of the color of a light source, defined with reference to
the temperature to which an object would have to be heated to radiate light in the same
wavelengths. While light sources with a color temperature in the neighborhood of 5,000–
5,500°K appear to be white, light sources with a lower color temperature, such as incandescent
light bulbs, appear to be slightly yellow or red. Light sources with a higher color temperature
seem to be tinged with blue.
65
Page 79
White Balance (continued)
Fine-Tuning White Balance
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—WHITE BALANCE
At settings other than PRE (preset), white balance can be fine-tuned by pressing the
button (A) and rotating the sub-command dial (B). Adjustments of from –3 to
+3 can be made in increments of one.
ABC
Lowering white balance gives images a reddish cast, while r aising white balance gives
images a bluish cast. At settings other than ±0, a
control panel display.
Adjusting White Balance from the Shooting Menu
White balance can adjusted using the White Bal option in
the shooting menu. In the shooting menu, highlight WhiteBal and press the multi selector to the right to display the
white-balance menu. Press the multi selector up or down to
highlight the desired setting.
indicator appears in the rear
SHOOTING MENU
White Bal
Auto
Incandescent
Fluorescent
Direct Sunlight
Flash
Except in the case of WB Preset (preset white balance),
highlighting a white balance setting and pressing the multi
selector to the right displays a dialog where you can fine-tune
the chosen setting. Press the multi selector up or down to
choose the amount white balance will be adjusted, then press
the multi selector to the right to put your selection into effect and return to the shooting menu.
For more information on:
pg. 188 The shooting menu
66
SHOOTING MENU
White Bal
Fine Tune WB
0
OK
Page 80
Preset White Balance
Preset white balance is useful when taking photographs with colored light sources
and under other unusual lighting conditions.
Recording a Preset White Balance Setting
In the shooting menu, highlight White Bal and press the
1
multi selector to the right to display the white-balance
menu.
SHOOTING MENU
White Bal
Auto
Incandescent
Fluorescent
Direct Sunlight
Flash
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—WHITE BALANCE
Highlight WB Preset and press the multi selector to the
2
right. The menu shown at right will be displayed.
Highlight Set and press the multi selector to the right.
3
The message, “Please release the shutter” will be displayed.
SHOOTING MENU
White Bal
WB Preset
Set
Preset-1
Preset-2
Preset-3
SHOOTING MENU
White Bal
WB Preset
Please release
the shutter
67
Page 81
White Balance (continued)
Under the lighting that will be used in the actual photograph, frame a white or
4
neutral gray object so that it fills the viewfinder and then press the shutter-release
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—WHITE BALANCE
button all the way down. The shutter will be released and the measured value for
white balance stored in camera memory, but no image will be recorded to the
memory card.
Note that when performing this operation, it will be necessary to focus the camera using the lens focus ring in manual focusing mode. At a setting of single-servo
autofocus, lack of contrast will prevent the camera from focusing on the target
object and the shutter release will be disabled. Similarly, auto-exposure (exposure mode P, S, or A) should be used to prevent extreme over- or under-expo-
sure that could interfere with an optimal white balance measurement. White
balance can also be set using manual exposure (exposure mode M); note, however, that exposure settings that would produce extreme over- or under-exposure can prevent the camera from setting white balance.
The menu shown at right will be displayed in the monitor.
5
The measured value for preset white balance can be saved
as your choice of Preset-1, Preset-2, or Preset-3; highlight
the desired option and press the multi selector to the
right to record the white balance setting and return to
the shooting menu. Select Repeat release to measure
white balance again, or Cancel to return to the shooting menu without saving
the new value for white balance.
SHOOTING MENU
Preset-1
Preset-2
Preset-3
Repeat release
Cancel
OK
Measuring White Balance
When measuring white balance under studio lighting, we recommend that a neutr al gray object
be used as the target. When using a white object, select a setting for exposure that would
cause the object to appear gray when photographed to prevent mis-reading caused by overexposure.
68
Page 82
Recalling Preset White Balance
• Recalling preset white balance using the
Choose a white-balance setting of Preset (
button
pg. 67), then press the WB button
(A) and rotate the sub-command dial (B) until the desired setting is displayed in
the rear control panel (C).
ABC
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—WHITE BALANCE
A setting of
is equivalent to Preset-1, to Preset-2, and to Pre-
set-3.
• Recalling preset white balance from the shooting menu
Highlight WB Preset in the white-balance menu and
press the multi selector to the right. The menu shown at
right will be displayed; highlight the desired setting and
press the multi selector to the right to put your choice
into effect and return to the shooting menu.
SHOOTING MENU
White Bal
WB Preset
Set
Preset-1
Preset-2
Preset-3
OK
69
Page 83
Autofocus
The Focus-Mode Selector
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—AUTOFOCUS
When the focus mode selector (A) is set to S (single-servo autofocus) or C (continuous-servo autofocus), the camera focuses automatically when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway (B).
AB
When your subject is stationary, single-servo AF allows you to lock focus on the
subject by keeping the shutter-release button pressed halfway (or either of the AFON buttons pressed). The camera remains focused at the distance of the original
subject as long as the shutter-release button is pressed halfway (or either or the AF-
ON buttons held down), even if you re-frame the photograph so that the subject is
no longer in the selected focus area. To ensure a sharp image, the shutter can only be
released when the camera is in focus.
Continuous-servo AF can be used with moving subjects to allow the camera to
continually reassess the distance to the subject in the focus area and adjust focus as
necessary. The shutter can be released even when the camera is not in focus (release priority).
In both single-servo and continuous-servo AF, the focus target is selected from one
of five focus areas using the multi selector.
For more information on:
pg. 81 Manual focus
70
Page 84
Focus modeDescription
If the subject is stationary, the camera focuses when the shutter-
S
Single-ser vo AF
(focus priority)
C
Continuous-servo AF
(release priority)
release button is pressed halfway. Focus remains locked while the
shutter-release button is held in this position (focus lock). The
shutter can only be released when the in-focus indicator (●) is
displayed (focus priority).
The camera adjusts focus continuousl y while the shutter-release
button is pressed halfway, automatically tracking moving subjects
(focus tracking). The shutter can be released at any time, whether
or not the camera is in focus (release priority). Focus is not locked
when the in-focus indicator (●) is displayed.
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—A
UTOFOCUS
71
Page 85
Autofocus (continued)
The AF-ON Buttons
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—AUTOFOCUS
An alternative means of activating autofocus is to press the AF-ON button (A) or,
when the shutter-release button for vertical shooting is unlocked, the AF-ON button
for vertical shooting (B). Either operation has the same effect as pressing the shut-
ter-release button halfway.
AB
4—AF Activation ( pg. 162)
Using this setting, the camera can be programmed so that an autofocus operation can only be
performed using the AF-ON buttons to avoid accidental shutter release.
72
Page 86
Focus Area Selection
Your Nikon digital camera is equipped with five focus areas that together cover a
wide area of the frame. By choosing a focus area according to your composition and
the position of your subject, you can focus on an off-center subject without using
focus lock.
Unlock the multi selector (A) and use it to choose a focus area. The selected focus
area is displayed in the control panel on top of the camera (B) and is briefly highlighted in red in the viewfinder (C).
ABC
The focus area can be fixed at the chosen setting by rotating the multi selector lock
to the locked position.
The focus area can not be changed while images are displayed in the monitor.
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—FOCUS-AREA SELECTION
Focus-area selection can be used with any type of viewfinder focusing screen.
6—Focus Area Select ( pg. 163)
At default settings, focus-area selection can only move from the center focus area to the four
outer focus areas and back, so that, for example, pressing the multi selector up when the top
focus area is selected has no effect. This can be changed so that focus area selection “wraps
around,” allowing you to shift the focus area from top to bottom or from right to left without
changing the position of your finger on the multi selector.
For more information on:
pg. 78 Focus lock
73
Page 87
AF-Area Mode
When autofocus is in effect, you can select the AF-area mode depending on whether
you want the camera to focus on the subject in a single focus area (single-area AF),
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—AF-AREA MODE
or to follow the subject as it shifts from one focus area to the next (dynamic AF).
In single-area AF, the choice of focus area is in your hands. If your subject is moving
erratically, or if you are experimenting with a variety of compositions, it may however
be difficult or impossible to select the focus area using the multi selector. In cases
such as these, dynamic AF can be used to give the camera control over selection of
a new focus point.
When dynamic AF is used with single-ser vo autofocus, the focus area can not be
selected using the multi selector. Instead, the camera continually assesses the distance to the objects in all five focus areas, and automatically chooses the focus area
containing the object closest to the camera. This combination is useful when your
subject is always positioned closest to the camera but you are trying out a number of
different camera positions to find the best composition.
When dynamic AF is used in combination with continuous-servo autofocus, the
camera measures the distance to the subject in the selected focus area when the
shutter-release button is pressed halfway to initiate autofocus. It will continue to
focus on this subject as it moves from one focus area to the next. The multi selector
can be used at any time to choose a new focus area. This combination is useful when
your subject is moving erratically and manual focus area selection is too slow or
cumbersome.
Selecting the AF-Area Mode
In the shooting menu, highlight AF Area Mode and press
the multi selector to the right. The menu shown at right will
be displayed. Highlight the desired option and press the multi
selector to the right to put your choice into effect and return
to the shooting menu.
SHOOTING MENU
AF Area Mode
Dynamic Area AF
Single Area AF
OK
OK
For more information on:
pg. 188 The shooting menu
74
Page 88
The following options are available:
DescriptionOptionIcon
When the autofocus system is initiated by pressing
the shutter-release button halfway or by pressing ei-
ther of the AF-ON buttons, the camera focuses on
the subject in the active focus area. The camera then
continuously scans all five focus areas to maintain fo-
Dynamic Area AF
Single Area AF
cus as the subject moves into other focus areas. This
mode is useful when it is difficult to predict where
the subject will be at the moment of exposure. Unless the focus area is changed using the multi selector,
the focus area originally selected will be used as the
focus target the next time you initiate autofocus.
The camera focuses on the subject in the selected
focus area. This mode is effective when focusing on
subjects that are relatively motionless.
The current AF-area mode is indicated by the display in the top control panel.
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—AF-AREA MODE
Using the
Button to Select the AF-Area Mode
When AF Area is chosen in the Assign FUNC sub-menu, AF-area mode will be
assigned to the
cessing the camera menus. Pressing the
button, allowing you to select the AF-area mode without ac-
button (A), rotate the main command
dial (B) until the desired AF-area mode is showing in the control panel on top of the
camera (C).
ABC
75
Page 89
AF-Area Mode (continued)
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—AF-AREA MODE
Closest-Subject Priority
Closest-subject priority is available when dynamic AF is selected. When this option
is in effect, the camera assesses the distance to the subjects in each of the five focus
areas and selects the area containing the subject closest to the camera. It then tracks
this subject as it moves from one focus area to the next. As a result the camera
maintains focus on the target through to the time when the shutter-release button is
pressed. Note that when the subject is poorly lit or a telephoto lens is used, the
camera may fail to select the focus area containing the subject closest to the camera.
Single-area AF is recommended in these cases.
When closest-subject priority is in effect, no focus-area indicators are shown in the
viewfinder or in the control panel on top of the camera.
Advanced Options for Dynamic AF
If desired, closest-subject priority can be deactivated when using dynamic AF with single-servo
autofocus, allowing the multi selector to be used to select the focus area. Closest-subject
priority can be activated when using dynamic AF with continuous-servo autofocus, causing the
camera to re-focus on the closest subject should it lose track of the original subject. These
options are only recommended for advanced users who have made the necessary preparations to allow them to take advantage of these combinations.
9—Dynamic AF, Single-Servo ( pg. 165)
In single-servo autofocus, the default setting for dynamic AF is closest-subject priority on. To
turn it off, use Custom Setting 9.
10—Dynamic AF, Continuous-Servo ( pg. 165)
In continuous-servo autofocus, the default setting for dynamic AF is closest-subject priority off.
To turn it on, use Custom Setting 10.
For more information on:
pg. 116 The Assign FUNC sub-menu
76
Page 90
The focus area can not be selected manually when closest-subject priority is in effect
(in closest-subject priority, the camera selects the focus area automatically), and con-
sequently focus area indicators are not displayed in the viewfinder or in the control
panel on top of the camera. The relationship between AF-area mode and the focus
area display is shown in the following table.
Focus
mode
S-AF
C-AF
AF-area
mode
Single
Area AF
Dynamic
Area AF
Single
Area AF
Dynamic
Area AF
Closest-subject
priority
—
On
(default)
Off (Custom Setting 9
set to Select AF
Area)
—Ye s
Off
(default)
On (Custom Setting 10
set to Closest
Subject)
Focus area
selection
Manual
Automatic
Manual
Manual
Manual
Automatic
Control
panel
display
Focus area
shown in
viewfinder?
Ye s
No
Ye s
Ye s
No
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—AF-AREA MODE
77
Page 91
Focus Lock
Focus lock can be used in combination with autofocus to focus on a subject that is
not in any of the five focus areas, or on other occasions when the camera would not
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—FOCUS LOCK
otherwise be able to focus using autofocus (
Focus lock differs depending on whether you are using single- or continuous-servo
AF. Follow the steps below.
Position the subject in the selected focus area (A) and press the shutter-release
1
button halfway (B).
A
Lock focus when the in-focus indicator (●) appears in the viewfinder.
2
• In single-servo autofocus:
Once the in-focus indicator has appeared in the
viewfinder, focus will lock when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, and remain locked
while the button is held in this position. Focus
can also be locked by pressing the AE-L/AF-L button (see below).
• In continuous-servo autofocus:
After the in-focus indicator appears in the
viewfinder, press the AE-L/AF-L button to lock both
focus and exposure. Focus will remain locked while
the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed, even if you re-
move your finger from the shutter-release button.
B
pg. 80).
For more information on:
pg. 96 Auto-exposure lock
78
Page 92
Keeping focus locked, recompose your photograph (A) and shoot (B).
3
A
When focus is locked by pressing the shutter-release button halfway, you can take
several photographs in succession at the same focus setting by keeping the shutter-release button lightly pressed between each shot. Focus will also remain
locked between shots as long as you continue to press the AE-L/AF-L button.
Do not change the distance between the camera and the subject while focus lock
is in effect. If your subject moves, focus again at the new distance.
B
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—FOCUS LOCK
21—AE-L/AF-L Button ( pg. 172)
The AE-L/AF-L button can be set to lock only focus, r ather than both focus and exposure.
79
Page 93
Getting Good Results with Autofocus
Autofocus does not perform well under the conditions listed below. In these cases
you can focus manually (
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—GETTING GOOD RESULTS WITH AUTOFOCUS
pg. 81) or use autofocus as detailed below.
The subject is poorly lit
Use a Speedlight with an AF-assist illuminator, such as the
SB-28DX or SB-50DX (available separately) and select the
center focus area.
There is little or no contrast between the subject and the background
Lack of contrast—for example, a subject that is the same
color as the background—can interfere with autofocus. Use
focus lock (
same distance and then recompose your photograph.
The focus area contains objects at different distances from
the camera
For example, autofocus may not perform well when the
subject is inside a cage. Use focus lock (
on another subject at the same distance and then recom-
pose your photograph.
The subject is dominated by regular geometrical patterns
Regular geometrical patterns—for example, a row of windows in a skyscraper—can interfere with autofocus. Use
manual focus (
pg. 78) to focus on another subject at the
pg. 78) to focus
pg. 81).
80
The focus area contains regions of sharply differing brightness
The camera may not be able to focus using autofocus when,
for example, the subject is half in the shade. Use manual
focus (
pg. 81).
Page 94
Manual Focus
Manual focus can be used with lenses that do not support autofocus (non-AF Nikkor
lenses) or in situations in which autofocus will not produce the desired results.
Adjusting Focus in the Viewfinder
To use manual focus, turn the focus-mode selector (A) to M and turn the lens
focusing ring (B) until the image displayed on the clear matte field in the viewfinder is
in focus. Photographs can be taken even when the in-focus indicator (●) does not
appear in the viewfinder.
AB
ADVANCED PHO
TOGRAPHY—MANU
Using the Electronic Range Finder
When a lens with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or
faster is used in manual focus mode , the in-focus indicator (●) can be used to confirm focus in any of the
five focus areas. With the focus-mode selector set to
M, press the shutter-release button halfway. Before
the focus indicator in the viewfinder disappears, rotate
the lens focusing ring (A) until the in-focus indicator
(●) is displayed in the viewfinder (B). If the
indica-
tor is displayed, the camera is focused on a point between the camera and the subject. If the
ndicator
appears, the camer a is focused on a point behind the
subject.
For more information on:
pg. 80 Getting good results with autofocus
pg. 73 Focus-area selection
A
AL FOCUS
B
81
Page 95
Metering
D1X offers a choice of three metering methods, which can be chosen according to
how your subject is lit. Note that depending on the lens used, some metering
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—METERING
methods may not be available.
To choose a metering method, press the metering selector
lock release (1) while rotating the metering selector to the
desired setting (2).
14—Center Weight Area ( pg. 168)
This option is used to set the size of the area assigned the greatest weight in center-weighted
metering to 6 mm (0.24˝), 10 mm (0.39˝), 13 mm (0.51˝), or to the average of the entire frame.
For more information on:
pg. 198 Compatible lenses
82
Page 96
The following options are available:
MethodDescription
Metering is performed by a CCD sensor with 1,005 metering pixels
(67 vertical, 15 horizontal), which sets exposure based on a variety of
information from all areas of the frame. This system demonstrates its
effectiveness most dramatically where bright (white or yellow) or
dark (black or dark green) colors occupy most of the frame, when it
3D color matrix/
Color matrix
Center-weighted
Spot
produces results approaching what is seen by the human eye. 3D
color matrix metering, which makes use of range information from
the lens when adjusting exposure, is only available when a type G or
D lens is used. When lenses of other types are attached, color matrix
metering is used. This setting is not recommended when using autoexposure lock or exposure compensation; use center-weighted or
spot metering instead.
The camera measures light over the entire frame, but assigns the
greatest weight to a circular area in the center of the frame 8 mm
(0.31˝) in diameter (use the 12 mm/0.47˝ circle in the center of the
viewfinder as a reference for center-weighted metering).
The camera measures light in a circle 4 mm (0.15˝) in diameter cen-
tered on the current focus area, occupying approximately two percent of the frame. Spot metering is recommended for backlit sub-
jects, compositions that contains areas of high contrast, and other
occasions when you want to limit metering to an area about the size
of the focus brackets. Because metering is linked to the current focus
area, we recommend that you arrange your composition so that the
main subject falls in one of the focus areas and then select that focus
area using the multi selector. Note, however, that when closest-subject priority is used or a non-CPU lens attached, metering will be
pg. 73 Focus area selection
pg. 76 Closest-subject priority
83
Page 97
Exposure Mode
D1X offers a choice of four manual exposure modes: programmed auto, shutterpriority auto, aperture-priority auto, and manual.
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—EXPOSURE MODE
Programmed Auto
In programmed auto, the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture
according to the exposure program (see opposite) to produce optimal results. This
exposure mode is recommended for snapshots and other unplanned situations that
require a quick response. Programmed auto can also be used with program shift,
auto bracketing (
demanding shooting situations. Programmed auto is only available with CPU lenses.
To take photographs in programmed auto:
Pressing the MODE button, rotate the main command
1
dial until
camera.
Frame a photograph and shoot.
2
Lens Aperture Ring
If the lens aper ture ring has not been set to the minimum aperture, the viewf inder and control
panel on top of the camera will show a blinking , and the shutter release will be disabled.
This does not apply in the case of type G lenses, which do not have an aperture ring.
Non-CPU Lenses
pg. 100), and exposure compensation ( pg. 98) for more
is displayed in the control panel on top of the
If programmed auto is selected when a non-CPU lens is attached, the exposure mode will
automatically be set to aperture-priority auto (A). The aperture display in the viewfinder and
the control panel on top of the camera will show the in the control panel on top of the
camera will blink, and the exposure-mode display in the viewfinder will show to indicate that
aperture must be set manually using the lens aperture ring.
Exposure Indicators
If the subject is too bright or too dark to allow correct exposure, one of the following indicators will appear in the viewfinder and the control panel on top of the camera:
Subject too bright; use an ND filter.
Subject too dark; use a flash.
84
Page 98
Flexible Program
Programmed auto offers multiple combinations of shutter speed and aperture, each of which
will produce the correct exposure, giving you a degree of control over shutter speed and
aperture while leaving the camera to set exposure. To choose a new combination of shutter
speed and aperture, rotate the command dial (A). While flexible program is in effect, an
asterisk (“*”) will appear next to the exposure-mode indicator in the control panel on top of
the camera (B). To restore the default shutter speed and aperture settings, rotate the com-
mand dial until the asterisk is no longer displayed. Flexible program is also cancelled when the
camera is turned off or a two-button reset ( pg. 184) is performed.
AB
Exposure Program
The following graph shows the exposure program for programmed auto.
ISO 200, lens with maximum aper ture of f/1.4 and
minimum aperture of f/16 (e.g., AF 50 mm f/1.4D)
]
-4
-3
EV
[
F1
F1.4
F2
F2.8
Aperture
F4
F5.6
F8
F11
F16
F22
F32
30" 15"8"4" 2" 1" 2 4 8 15 30 60
-2
The maximum and minimum values for EV vary with sensitivity (ISO equivalency). Matrix
metering reduces to 171/3 any EV that exceeds 171/3 at a sensitivity of ISO 200 equivalent.
0
1
-1
Shutter speed
Metering Range: EV 1–21
345
2
678
125 250 500
1000
9
2000 4000
10
12
11
8000 16000
13
14
15
16
3
/
1
17
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—EXPOSURE MODE
85
Page 99
Exposure Mode (continued)
Shutter-Priority Auto
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—EXPOSURE MODE
In shutter-priority auto, the user sets the shutter speed, while the camera automatically adjusts aperture to produce the optimal exposure. Shutter speed can be set to
values between thirty and 1/16,000 seconds. Use high shutter speeds to “freeze”
motion, low shutter speeds to blur moving objects. Shutter-priority auto is only
available with CPU lenses.
To take photographs in shutter-priority auto:
Pressing the MODE button, rotate the main command
1
dial until
the camera.
Rotate the main command dial to choose a shutter
2
speed.
Frame a photograph and shoot.
3
is displayed in the control panel on top of
Lens Aperture Ring
If the lens aper ture ring has not been set to the minimum aperture, the viewf inder and control
panel on top of the camera will show a blinking , and the shutter release will be disabled.
This does not apply in the case of type G lenses, which do not have an aperture ring.
Non-CPU Lenses
If shutter-priority auto is selected when a non-CPU lens is attached, the exposure mode will
automatically be set to aperture-priority auto (A). The aperture display in the viewfinder and
the control panel on top of the camera will show , the in the control panel on top of the
camera will blink, and the exposure-mode display in the viewfinder will show to indicate that
aperture must be set manually using the lens aperture ring.
86
Page 100
Long Time-Exposures
Noise may appear in photographs taken at speeds of approximately one second or slower.
Exposure Indicators
If the subject is too bright or too dark to allow correct exposure, the electronic analog exposure display will flash and one of the following indicators will appear in the viewfinder and the
control panel on top of the camera:
Subject too bright; choose a faster shutter speed or use an ND filter.
Subject too dark; choose a lower shutter speed or use a flash.
Shutter-Speed Lock
Shutter speed can be locked at the selected setting ( pg. 94).
2—EV Steps for Exposure Control ( pg. 161)
By default, adjustments to shutter speed are made in increments equivalent to 1/3EV (1/3 step).
If desired, the size of the increments can be increased to 1/2 or 1 step.
12—Assign Command Dial ( pg. 166)
This setting can be used to reverse the roles of the command dials so that the main command
dial controls aperture while shutter speed is assigned to the sub-command dial.
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY—EXPOSURE MODE
87
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