Nikon D90 Owner Manual

DIGITAL CAMERA

User's Manual

Where to Find It

Find what you’re looking for from:

The Table of Contents

Find items by function or menu name.

The Q&A Index

Know what you want to do but don’t know the function name? “question and answer” index.

The Index

Search by key word.

Error Messages

If a warning is displayed in the control panel, viewfinder, or monitor, find the solution here.

Troubleshooting

Camera behaving unexpectedly?

A For Your Safety

Before using the camera for the first time, read the safety instructions in “For Your Safety” (pg. xiv).

Help

Use the camera’s on-board help feature for help on menu items and other topics. See page 21 for details.

Find the solution here.

➜

Find it from the

➜

pp. viii–xiii

pp. iv–vii

pp. 276–278

pp. 255–257

pp. 250–254

Digitutor

“Digitutor”, a series of “watch and learn” manuals in movie form, is available from the following website: http://www.nikondigitutor.com/index_eng.html

Package Contents

Be sure all items listed here were included with your camera. Memory cards are sold separately.

❏ D90 digital camera

(pg. 3)

❏ EN-EL3e

rechargeable Li-ion battery with terminal cover (pp. 22, 23)

❏ EG-D2 audio/video

cable (pg. 146)

❏ Body cap

(pp. 3, 240)

❏ MH-18a quick

charger with power cable (pg. 22)

❏ UC-E4 USB cable

(pp. 149, 151)

❏ BM-10 LCD monitor

cover (pg. 17)

❏ AN-DC1 strap

(pg. 17)

❏ DK-5 eyepiece cap

(pg. 17)

❏ BS-1 accessory shoe

cover (pg. 233)

❏ Warranty ❏ User’s Manual (this guide) ❏ Quick Guide (a guide for first-time users describing the basic steps involved in such tasks

taking pictures, copying pictures to a computer, and printing pictures)

❏ Software Installation Guide ❏ Software Suite CD-ROM ❏ Registration card (U. S. A. only)

Symbols and Conventions

To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions are used:

This icon marks cautions; information that should be read before use to

prevent damage to the camera.

This icon marks notes; information that should be read before using the

camera.

Trademark Information

Macintosh, Mac OS, and QuickTime are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Microsoft, Windows and Windows Vista are either registered trademarks, or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. The SD logo is a trademark of the SD Card Association. PictBridge and the SDHC logo are trademarks. HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC. 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.

Introduction

Basic Photography and Playback

Q&A Index

Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index.

New Features

Question Key phrase See page

Can I use the monitor as a viewfinder? Live view 43 How do I shoot movies? Recording movies 50 Can I control how photos are processed? Picture Controls 108 How do I preserve details in shadows and highlights? How do I keep the subject in focus when changing the composition? How do I remove dust from the low-pass filter protecting the image sensor?

Frequently-Asked Questions

Question Key phrase See page

How do I use the menus? Using the menus 18 How do I get more information on a menu? Help 21 Can I get quick access to frequently-used settings? My Menu 225 Can I get quick access to recently-used settings? Recent settings 224 What do these indicators mean? Control panel, viewfinder 7, 9 What does this warning mean? Error messages and displays 255

How many more shots can I take with this card?

How much charge does the battery have left? Battery level 34 What does “exposure” mean and how does it work? Exposure 79 What do I do with the viewfinder eyepiece cap? Self timer, remote control 66, 68 What optional flash units (Speedlights) can I use? Optional flash units 233 What lenses can I use? Lenses 228 What accessories are available for my camera? Accessories 239 What memory cards can I use? Approved memory cards 242 What software is available for my camera? Accessories 240 Who can I ask to repair or inspect my camera? Servicing the camera 247 How do I clean the camera or lens? Cleaning the camera 243

Active D-Lighting 119

3D-tracking 173

Clean Image Sensor 203

Number of exposures remaining

Camera Setup

Question Key phrase See page

How do I stop parts of my photos from blinking? Photo info, highlights

How do I focus the viewfinder? Viewfinder focus 32 How do I keep the monitor from turning off? Monitor off 180 How do I set the clock? How do I set the clock for daylight saving time? How do I change time zones when I travel? How do I adjust monitor brightness? LCD brightness 202 How do I restore default settings? Two-button reset 75 How do I turn off the light on the front of the camera? Can I display a framing grid in the viewfinder? Grid display 181 How do I view the control panel in the dark? LCD illuminator 8, 196 How do I keep the shutter speed and aperture displays from turning off? How do I change the self timer delay? Self timer 66, 179 How do I change the remote delay? Remote control 68, 180 How do I keep the camera from beeping? Beep 180 Can I display the menus in a different language? Language 204 How do I keep the file number from being reset when I insert a new memory card? How do I reset file numbering to 1?

World time 204

AF-assist illuminator 174

Auto meter off 35, 179

File number sequence 182

131,

163

Taking Photographs

Question Key phrase See page

Is there an easy way to take snapshots? Auto mode 34 Is there an easy way to take more creative shots? Scene modes 41

j mode 34

Can I take pictures without the flash?

How do I bring out a portrait subject? Portrait mode 41 How can I get good landscape shots? Landscape mode 41 How do I take close ups of small objects? Close-up mode 42 How do I “freeze” a moving subject? Sports mode 42 Can I include night backgrounds in my portraits? Night portrait mode 42 How do I take a lot of photographs quickly? Release mode 64 Can I shoot a self-portrait? Self timer 66 Is there a remote control for this camera? Remote control 68 How do I adjust exposure? P, S, A, and M modes 78 How do I freeze or blur moving objects? Mode S (shutter-priority auto) 81

How do I blur background details?

Can I make photos brighter or darker? Exposure compensation 90 How do I make a time exposure? Long time-exposures 85 How do I use the flash? Flash photography 70 Can the flash fire automatically when needed? How do I keep the flash from firing? How do I prevent red eye? Red-eye reduction 71 Can I control how the camera focuses? Autofocus 54 How do I focus on a moving subject? Autofocus mode 54 How do I choose where the camera focuses? Focus point 56 Can I change the composition after focusing? Focus lock 57 Can I create a multiple exposure? Multiple exposure 121 How do I improve image quality? How do I take bigger photographs? How can I get more photos on the memory card? Can I take photos at a reduced size for e-mail?

Flash mode 71 ISO sensitivity 74

Mode A (aperture-priority auto)

Flash mode 70

Image quality and size 62, 63

Viewing and Retouching Photographs

Question Key phrase See page

Can I view my photographs on the camera? Camera playback 48, 128 Can I view more information about photos? Photo info 129

How do I get rid of an unwanted photo? Deleting individual photos

Can I delete several photos at once? Delete 162 Can I zoom in on pictures to make sure they’re in focus? Can I protect photos from accidental deletion? Protect 139 Is there an automatic playback (“slide show”) option? Can I view my photos on TV? Television playback 146 Can I view my photos in High Definition? HDMI 147 How do I copy photos to my computer? Connecting to a computer 148 How do I print photographs? Printing photographs 150 Can I print photos without a computer? Printing via USB 151

Can I print the date on my photographs? Time stamp, DPOF

How do I order professional prints? Print set (DPOF) 157 How do I bring out details in shadows? D-Lighting 212 Can I get rid of red eye? Red-eye correction 212 Can I crop photographs on the camera? Trim 213 Can I create a monochrome copy of a photograph? Monochrome 214 Can I create a copy with different colors? Filter effects 215 How do I adjust existing colors? Color balance 216 Can I make a small copy of a photograph? Small picture 216 Can I overlay two photos to make a single image? Image overlay 218 Can I use the camera to create JPEG copies of NEF (RAW) photographs? Is there a quick way to retouch photographs? Quick retouch 221 Can I straighten photographs? Straighten 221 How do I reduce distortion? Distortion control 222 Can I create the effect of a fisheye lens? Fisheye 222 Can I compare retouched copies with the originals? Side-by-side comparison 223

Playback zoom 138

Pictmotion Slide show

NEF (RAW) processing 220

49, 140,

162

141,

143

152,

155

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Q&A Index ................................................................................................................................... iv

For Your Safety ........................................................................................................................ xiv

Notices........................................................................................................................................ xvi

Introduction 1

Overview....................................................................................................................................... 2

Getting to Know the Camera................................................................................................. 3

The Camera Body ......................................................................................................................3

The Mode Dial.............................................................................................................................6

The Control Panel......................................................................................................................7

The Viewfinder............................................................................................................................9

The Shooting Information Display................................................................................... 10

The Command Dials..............................................................................................................13

Attaching the AN-DC1 Camera Strap..............................................................................17

The BM-10 Monitor Cover ................................................................................................... 17

The DK-21 Viewfinder Eyepiece Cup............................................................................... 17

Camera Menus..........................................................................................................................18

Using Camera Menus............................................................................................................ 19

Help .............................................................................................................................................21

First Steps ...................................................................................................................................22

Charge the Battery................................................................................................................. 22

Insert the Battery ....................................................................................................................23

Attach a Lens............................................................................................................................25

Basic Setup................................................................................................................................27

Inserting Memory Cards....................................................................................................... 29

Adjust Viewfinder Focus......................................................................................................32

Basic Photography and Playback 33

“Point-and-Shoot” Photography (i and j Modes)...................................................34

Step 1: Turn the Camera On................................................................................................ 34

Step 2: Choose Shooting and Focus Modes ................................................................. 36

Step 3: Check Camera Settings.......................................................................................... 36

Step 4: Frame the Photograph .......................................................................................... 37

Step 5: Focus............................................................................................................................38

Step 6: Shoot............................................................................................................................39

Creative Photography (Scene Modes) .............................................................................41

k Portrait .............................................................................................................................. 41

l Landscape........................................................................................................................41

n Close Up ...........................................................................................................................42

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m Sports.................................................................................................................................42

o Night Portrait ..................................................................................................................42

Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View)..................................................................43

Basic Playback...........................................................................................................................48

Deleting Unwanted Photographs.....................................................................................49

Recording and Viewing Movies (Live View) ...................................................................50

More on Playback 127

Full-Frame Playback............................................................................................................. 128

Photo Information................................................................................................................129

Thumbnail Playback............................................................................................................ 135

Calendar Playback ................................................................................................................ 136

Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom........................................................................... 138

Protecting Photographs from Deletion........................................................................ 139

Deleting Individual Photographs ................................................................................... 140

Pictmotion............................................................................................................................... 141

Slide Shows............................................................................................................................. 143

Connections 145

Viewing Photographs on TV............................................................................................. 146

Standard Definition Devices.............................................................................................146

High-Definition Devices .....................................................................................................147

Connecting to a Computer ............................................................................................... 148

Before Connecting the Camera.......................................................................................148

Connecting the Camera.....................................................................................................149

Printing Photographs.......................................................................................................... 150

Menu Guide 159

D The Playback Menu: Managing Images.................................................................. 160

Selecting Multiple Pictures...............................................................................................160

Delete...................................................................................................................................162

Playback Folder.................................................................................................................162

Hide Image .........................................................................................................................162

Display Mode.....................................................................................................................163

Image Review ....................................................................................................................163

Rotate Tall...........................................................................................................................163

Pictmotion ..........................................................................................................................163

Slide Show..........................................................................................................................164

Print Set (DPOF) ............................................................................................................... 164

C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options..................................................................165

Set Picture Control.......................................................................................................... 165

Manage Picture Control................................................................................................ 165

Image Quality...................................................................................................................165

Image Size..........................................................................................................................165

White Balance...................................................................................................................165

ISO Sensitivity Settings.................................................................................................. 166

Active D-Lighting ............................................................................................................ 166

Color Space........................................................................................................................ 167

Long Exp. NR (Long Exposure Noise Reduction) ................................................. 167

High ISO NR ....................................................................................................................... 168

Active Folder..................................................................................................................... 169

Multiple Exposure ........................................................................................................... 170

Movie setting.................................................................................................................... 170

A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings.................................................. 171

A: Reset Custom Settings ............................................................................................ 172

a: Autofocus........................................................................................................................... 173

a1: AF-area Mode............................................................................................................. 173

a2: Center Focus Point...................................................................................................174

a3: Built-in AF-assist Illuminator.................................................................................174

a4: AF Point Illumination..............................................................................................175

a5: Focus Point Wrap-Around.....................................................................................175

a6: AE-L/AF-L for MB-D80 ............................................................................................. 176

a7: Live View Autofocus ................................................................................................ 176

b: Metering/Exposure......................................................................................................... 177

b1: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl.................................................................................. 177

b2: Easy Exposure Compensation............................................................................. 177

b3: Center-Weighted Area ........................................................................................... 178

b4: Fine Tune Optimal Exposure................................................................................ 178

c: Timers/AE Lock ................................................................................................................. 179

c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L ................................................................................ 179

c2: Auto Meter-off Delay............................................................................................... 179

c3: Self-Timer..................................................................................................................... 179

c4: Monitor off Delay...................................................................................................... 180

c5: Remote on Duration................................................................................................ 180

d: Shooting/Display.............................................................................................................180

d1: Beep.............................................................................................................................. 180

d2: Viewfinder Grid Display......................................................................................... 181

d3: ISO Display and Adjustment................................................................................ 181

d4: Viewfinder Warning Display................................................................................. 181

d5: Screen Tips.................................................................................................................. 182

d6: CL Mode Shooting Speed.....................................................................................182

d7: File Number Sequence........................................................................................... 182

d8: Shooting Info Display.............................................................................................183

d9: LCD Illumination.......................................................................................................183

d10: Exposure Delay Mode...........................................................................................183

d11: Flash Warning..........................................................................................................183

d12: MB-D80 Battery Type ............................................................................................184

e: Bracketing/Flash...............................................................................................................185

e1: Flash Shutter Speed .................................................................................................185

e2: Flash Cntrl for Built-in Flash ..................................................................................185

e3: Modeling Flash...........................................................................................................191

e4: Auto Bracketing Set .................................................................................................191

e5: Auto FP .........................................................................................................................195

e6: Bracketing Order .......................................................................................................195

f: Controls ................................................................................................................................196

f1: D Switch.......................................................................................................................196

f2: OK Button (Shooting Mode)...................................................................................196

f3: Assign FUNC. Button.................................................................................................197

f4: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button .........................................................................................200

f5: Customize Command Dials....................................................................................201

f6: No Memory Card?......................................................................................................201

f7: Reverse Indicators......................................................................................................201

B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup.................................................................................. 202

Format Memory Card .....................................................................................................202

LCD Brightness..................................................................................................................202

Clean Image Sensor.........................................................................................................203

Lock Mirror up for Cleaning.........................................................................................203

Video Mode ........................................................................................................................203

HDMI.....................................................................................................................................203

World Time.........................................................................................................................204

Language ............................................................................................................................204

Image Comment..............................................................................................................205

Auto Image Rotation ......................................................................................................205

Image Dust off Ref Photo..............................................................................................206

Battery Info.........................................................................................................................208

GPS........................................................................................................................................208

Eye-Fi Upload ....................................................................................................................208

Firmware Version .............................................................................................................208

N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies ................................................ 209

Creating Retouched Copies ..............................................................................................210

D-Lighting...........................................................................................................................212

Red-Eye Correction..........................................................................................................212

Trim.......................................................................................................................................213

Monochrome.....................................................................................................................214

Filter Effects........................................................................................................................215

Color Balance.....................................................................................................................216

Small Picture......................................................................................................................216

Image Overlay ...................................................................................................................218

NEF (RAW) Processing ....................................................................................................220

Quick Retouch ...................................................................................................................221

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Straighten.......................................................................................................................... 221

Distortion Control ........................................................................................................... 222

Fisheye ................................................................................................................................ 222

Side-by-Side Comparison............................................................................................. 223

m Recent Settings/O My Menu ....................................................................................... 224

m Recent Settings: Viewing Recent Settings.............................................................224

O My Menu: Creating a Custom Menu ........................................................................ 225

Technical Notes 227

Compatible Lenses...............................................................................................................228

Compatible CPU Lenses.................................................................................................... 229

Non-CPU Lenses ................................................................................................................... 230

Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)................................................................................. 233

The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS).................................................................233

Flash Contacts ....................................................................................................................... 238

Other Accessories ................................................................................................................. 239

Caring for the Camera......................................................................................................... 243

Storage..................................................................................................................................... 243

Cleaning.................................................................................................................................. 243

The Low-Pass Filter.............................................................................................................. 244

Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions............................................................. 248

Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................... 250

Display .....................................................................................................................................250

Shooting (All Modes).......................................................................................................... 251

Shooting (i, j, k, l, m, n, and o modes) ............................................................. 252

Shooting (P, S, A, M)........................................................................................................... 252

Playback.................................................................................................................................. 253

Miscellaneous........................................................................................................................ 254

Error Messages....................................................................................................................... 255

Appendix ................................................................................................................................. 258

Available Settings and Defaults...................................................................................... 258

Memory Card Capacity ......................................................................................................262

Exposure Program...............................................................................................................263

Bracketing Programs..........................................................................................................264

Flash Control.......................................................................................................................... 265

Shutter Speeds Available with the Built-in Flash .....................................................265

Aperture, Sensitivity, and Flash Range......................................................................... 266

Specifications ......................................................................................................................... 267

Index.......................................................................................................................................... 276

xiii

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 symbol:

This icon marks warnings. To prevent possible injury, read all warnings before using

this Nikon product.

❚❚ WARNINGS

Keep the sun out of the frame

Keep the sun well out of the frame when shooting backlit subjects. Sunlight focused into the camera when the sun is in or close to the frame could cause a fire.

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.

Using the viewfinder diopter con trol

When operating the viewfinder diopter control with your eye to the viewfinder, care should be taken not to put your finger in your eye accidentally.

Turn off immediately in the event of malfunction

Should you notice smoke or an unusual smell coming from the equipment or AC adapter (available separately), unplug the AC adapter and remove the battery immediately, taking care to avoid burns. Continued operation could result in injury. After removing the battery, take the equipment to a Nikon-authorized service center for inspection.

Do not disassemble

Touching the product’s internal parts could result in injury. In the event of 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 battery and/or AC adapter and then take the product 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.

Keep out of reach of children

Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury.

Do not place the strap around the neck of an

infant or child

Placing the c amera strap around the neck of an infant or child could result in strangulation.

Observe caution when using the flash

• Using the camera with the flash in close contact with the skin or other objects could cause burns.

• Using the flash close to the subject’s eyes could cause temporary visual impairment. Particular care should be observed when photographing infants, when the flash should be no less than one meter (39 in.) from the subject.

xiv

Observe proper precautions when handling

batteries

Batteries may leak or explode if improperly handled. Observe the following precautions when handling batteries for use in this product:

• Use only batteries approved for use in this equipment.

• Do not short or disassemble the battery.

• Be sure the product is off before

replacing the battery. If you are using an AC adapter, be sure it is unplugged.

• Do not attempt to insert the battery upside down or backwards.

• Do not expose the battery to flame or to excessive heat.

• Do not immerse in or expose to water.

• Replace the terminal cover when

transporting the battery. Do not transport or store the battery with metal objects such as necklaces or hairpins.

• Batteries are prone to leakage when fully discharged. To avoid damage to the product, be sure to remove the battery when no charge remains.

• When the battery is not in use, attach the terminal cover and store in a cool, dry place.

• The battery may be hot immediately after use or when the product has been used on battery power for an extended period. Before removing the battery turn the camera off and allow the battery to cool.

• Discontinue use immediately should you notice any changes in the battery, such as discoloration or deformation.

Observe proper precautions when handling the

quick charger

• Keep dry. Failure to observe this pr eca ution cou ld r esult in f ire or e lec tri c shock.

• Dust on or near the metal parts of the plug should be removed with a dry cloth. Continued use could result in fire.

• Do not handle the power cable or go near the charger dur ing thunderstorms. Failure to observe this precaution could result in electric shock.

• Do not damage, modify, or forcibly tug or bend the power cable. Do not place it under heavy objects or expose it to heat or flame. Should the insulation be damaged and the wires become exposed, take the power cable to a Nikon-authorized service representative for inspection. Failu re to observe this precaution could result in fire or electric shock.

• Do not handle the plug or charger with wet hands. Failure to observe this precaution could result in electric shock.

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.

CD-ROMs

CD-ROMs containing software or manuals 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.

Avoid contact with liquid crystal

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.

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.

Notices for Customers in the U.S.A.

Federal Communications Commission (F CC) Radio Frequenc y Interference Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in a ccordance with the instruc tions, 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 television 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.

• 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).

CAUTIONS

Modifications

The FCC requires the user 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.

Notice for Customers in the State of California WARNING: Handling the cord on this product

may expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Nikon Inc., 1300 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, New York 11747-3064, U.S.A. Tel.: 631-547-4200

xvi

Notices for Customers in Canada CAUTION

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Symbol for Separate Collection in European Countries

This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately. The following apply only to users in European countries:

• This product is designated for separate collection at an appropriate collection point. Do not dispose of as household waste.

• For more information, contact the retailer or the local authorities in charge of waste management.

Notice Concerning Prohibition of Copying or Reproduc tion

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 may be 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 or 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 passports issued by the government, licenses issued by public agencies and private groups, ID cards, and tickets, such as passes and meal coupons.

ATT EN TIO N

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

• Comply with copyright notices

The copying or reproduction of copyrighted creative works such as books, music, paintings, woodcuts, prints, maps, drawings, movies, and photographs is governed by national and international copyright laws. Do not use this produc t for the purpose of making illegal copies or to infringe copyright laws.

xvii

Disposing of Data Storage Devices

Please note that deleting images or formatting memory cards or other data storage devices does not completely erase the original image data. Deleted files can sometimes be recovered from discarded storage devices using commercially available software, potentially resulting in the malicious use of personal image data. Ensuring the privacy of such data is the user’s responsibility.

Before discarding a data storage device or transferring ownership to another person, erase all data using commercial deletion software, or format the device and then completely refill it with images containing no private information (for example, pictures of empty sky). Be sure to also replace any pictures selected for preset manual. Care should be taken to avoid injury when physically destroying data storage devices.

Use Only Nikon Brand Electronic Accessories

Nikon cameras are designed to the highest standards and include complex electronic circuitry. Only Nikon brand electronic accessories (including battery chargers, batteries, AC adapters, and flash accessories) certified by Nikon specifically for use with this Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within the operational and safety requirements of this electronic circuitry.

The use of non-Nikon electronic accessories could damage the camera and may void your Nikon warranty. The use of third-party rechargeable Li-ion batteries not bearing the Nikon holographic seal shown at right could interfere with normal operation of the camera or result in the batteries overheating, igniting, rupturing, or leaking.

For more information about Nikon brand accessories, contact a local authorized Nikon dealer.

Before Taking Important Pictures

Before taking pictures on important occasions (such as 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 damages 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 users in the U.S.A.: http://www.nikonusa.com/

• For users in Europe and Africa: http://www.europe-nikon.com/support

• For users in Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East: http://www.nikon-asia.com/

Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information, tips, answers to frequently-asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital imaging and photography. Additional information may be available from the Nikon representative in your area. See the following URL for contact information: http://imaging.nikon.com/

xviii

Introduction

This chapter covers information you will need to know before using the camera, including the names of camera parts, how to use the camera menus, and how to ready the camera for use.

Overview ......................................................................................................................... 2

Getting to Know the Camera....................................................................................... 3

The Camera Body........................................................................................................................ 3

The Mode Dial .............................................................................................................................. 6

The Control Panel........................................................................................................................ 7

The Viewfinder............................................................................................................................. 9

The Shooting Information Display........................................................................................ 10

The Command Dials................................................................................................................... 13

Attaching the AN-DC1 Camera Strap .................................................................................. 17

The BM-10 Monitor Cover........................................................................................................ 17

The DK-21 Viewfinder Eyepiece Cup.................................................................................... 17

Camera Menus ............................................................................................................... 18

Using Camera Menus................................................................................................................. 19

Help.................................................................................................................................................. 21

First Steps........................................................................................................................ 22

Charge the Battery ..................................................................................................................... 22

Insert the Battery ........................................................................................................................ 23

Attach a Lens ................................................................................................................................ 25

Basic Setup .................................................................................................................................... 27

Inserting Memory Cards........................................................................................................... 29

Adjust Viewfinder Focus........................................................................................................... 32

Overview

Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. To get the most from your camera, please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly and

keep them where they will be read by all who use the product.

Use Only Nikon Brand Accessories

Only Nikon brand accessories certified by Nikon specifically for use with your Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within its operational and safety requirements. THE USE OF NON-NIKON ACCESSORIES COULD DAMAGE YOUR CAMERA AND MAY VOID YOUR NIKON WARRANTY.

Servicing the Camera and Accessories

The camera is a precision device and requires regular servicing. Nikon recommends that the camera be inspected by the original retailer or a Nikon-authorized service representative once every one to two years, and that it be serviced once every three to five years (note that fees apply to these services). Frequent inspection and servicing are particularly recommended if the camera is used professionally. Any accessories regularly used with the camera, such as lenses or optional flash units, should be included when the camera is inspected or serviced.

Getting to Know the Camera

Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with camera controls and displays. Yo u may find it helpful to bookmark this section and refer to it as you read through the rest of the manual.

The Camera Body

11 12

1 Mode dial.............................................................6

2 Eyelet for camera strap.................................17

3 Focal plane mark (E) ....................................60

4 Accessory shoe (for optional flash

unit)................................................................233

5 Accessory shoe cover ................................. 233

6 Power switch....................................................34

7 Shutter-release button..................................38

8 E (exposure compensation) button........90

Two-button reset button .............................75

9 Z (metering) button.....................................87

Q (format) button .........................................30

10 I (release mode) button ............................64

11 AF (autofocus mode) button .......................54

Two-button reset button .............................75

12 Control panel......................................................7

13 Main command dial.......................................13

14 AF-assist illuminator................................... 174

Self-timer lamp................................................67

Red-eye reduction lamp ..............................71

15 Sub-command dial ........................................13

16 Fn button................................................197, 198

17 Depth-of-field preview button................. 82

18 Speaker

19 Body cap.........................................................240

20 CPU contacts

21 Mounting index...............................................25

22 Lens mount.......................................................60

23 Tripod socket

24 Battery-chamber cover.................................23

25 Battery-chamber cover latch......................23

The Camera Body (Continued)

1 Built-in flash......................................................70

2 M (flash mode) button ................................... 70

Y (flash compensation) button...............91

3 Microphone.............................................50, 170

4 Infrared receiver..............................................69

5 D (bracketing) button .................................92

6 Connector cover..............146, 147, 149, 151

7 Lens release button .......................................26

8 Focus-mode selector.............................. 54, 59

9 Mirror.........................................................43, 246

10 DC-IN connector for optional EH-5a or

EH-5 AC adapter ........................................239

11 USB connector

Connecting to a computer ....................149

Connecting to a printer...........................151

12 HDMI mini-pin connector .........................147

13 Video connector ...........................................146

14 Accessory terminal ......................................241

The Camera Body (Continued)

13 14

1 Viewfinder eyepiece ......................................32

2 DK-21 viewfinder eyepiece cup.................17

3 O (delete) button

Deleting pictures .........................................49

Deleting pictures during playback..... 140

Q (format) button.........................................30

4 Monitor

Live view.........................................................43

Viewing pictures ..........................................50

Full-frame playback.................................. 128

5 K (playback) button ...........................50, 128

6 G (menu) button..............................19, 159

7 L (help/protect) button..................21, 139

WB (white balance) button

White balance ...............................................95

Fine tuning white balance........................97

Color temperature.......................................99

8 W (thumbnail/playback zoom out)

button...........................................................135

ISO (ISO sensitivity) button...........................74

9 X (playback zoom in) button...................138

QUAL (image quality/size) button

Image quality................................................62

Image size.......................................................63

10 Diopter adjustment control........................32

11 AE-L/AF-L button

Focus lock.......................................................57

Choosing role............................................. 200

12 a (live view) button

Taking photographs ...................................43

Shooting movies ..........................................50

13 Multi selector ...................................................19

14 J (OK) button..................................................19

15 Memory card slot cover................................29

16 Focus selector lock.........................................56

17 Memory card access lamp....................29, 39

18 R (information display/quick settings

display) button ......................................10, 12

The Mode Dial

The camera offers a choice of the following eleven shooting modes:

❚❚ P, S, A, and M Modes

Select these modes for full control over camera settings.

P— Programmed auto (pg. 80): Camera chooses shutter speed and aperture, user controls other settings.

S —Shutter-priority auto (pg. 81): Choose fast shutter speeds to freeze action, slow shutter speeds to suggest motion by blurring moving objects.

❚❚ Auto Modes

Select these modes for simple, point-and-shoot photography.

A —Aperture-priority auto (pg. 82): Adjust aperture to soften background details or increase depth-of-field to bring both main subject and background into focus.

M—Manual (pg. 83): Match shutter speed and aperture to your creative intent.

i Auto (pg. 34): Camera adjusts settings automati- cally to produce optimal results with “point-andshoot” simplicity. Recommended for first-time users of digital cameras.

j Auto (flash off ) (pg. 34): As above, except that the flash will not fire even when lighting is poor.

❚❚ Scene Modes

Selecting a scene mode automatically optimizes settings to suit the selected scene, making creative photography as simple as rotating the mode dial.

k Por trait (pg. 41): Shoot portraits with back- ground in soft focus.

l Landscape (pg. 41): Preserve details in landscape shots.

n Close up (pg. 42): Take vivid close-ups of flowers, insects, and other small objects.

m Sports (pg. 42): Freeze motion for dynamic sports shots.

o Night portrait (pg. 42): Shoot portraits against a dimly-lit backdrop.

The Control Panel

1 Shutter speed

Shutter-priority auto...................................81

Manual exposure mode ............................83

Exposure compensation value...................90

Flash compensation value...........................91

White balance fine-tuning...........................97

White balance color temperature.............99

White balance preset number.................100

Number of shots in bracketing

sequence.........................................................92

2 Battery indicator..............................................34

3 Flash mode........................................................71

4 Image size..........................................................63

5 Image quality ...................................................62

6 White balance fine-tuning indicator........97

7 White balance..................................................95

14 13

9 8

8 ISO sensitivity compensation indicator

ISO sensitivity................................................74

ISO display and adjustment..................181

9 “K” (appears when memory remains for

over 1000 exposures).................................35

10 “Beep” indicator ........................................... 180

11 GPS connection indicator......................... 124

12 Release mode...................................................64

13 Aperture (f-number)

Aperture-priority auto...............................82

Manual exposure mode ............................83

Bracketing increment

AE/flash bracketing.....................................92

White balance bracketing .....................191

Bracketing programs............................... 264

14 Color temperature..........................................99

Large-Capacity Memory Cards

When enough memory remains on the memory card to record a thousand or more pictures at current settings, the number of exposures remaining will be shown in thou sands, rounded down to the nearest hundred (e.g., if there is room for 1,260 exposures, the exposure count display will show 1.2 K).

The Control Panel (Continued)

15 Flash compensation indicator...................91

16 “Clock not set” indicator

Clock battery.................................................27

Warnings......................................................255

17 Flexible program indicator..........................80

18 Metering............................................................87

19 Focus points.....................................................56

AF-area mode............................................... 173

20 Autofocus mode.............................................54

21 Black-and-white indicator........................181

22 Number of exposures remaining ............. 35

Number of shots remaining before

memory buffer fills......................................65

Preset white balance recording

indicator.......................................................101

Capture mode indicator............................ 148

ISO sensitivity

ISO sensitivity................................................74

ISO display and adjustment.................. 181

25 24

22 21

23 ISO sensitivity indicator ............................... 74

Auto ISO sensitivity indicator...................166

24 Bracketing progress indicator

AE/flash bracketing .................................... 92

White balance bracketing......................191

ADL bracketing ..........................................193

25 Bracketing indicator......................................92

26 White balance bracketing indicator......191

27 Exposure compensation indicator...........90

28 Multiple exposure indicator .....................121

The LCD Illuminator

Holding the power switch in the D position activates the exposure meters and the control panel backlight (LCD illuminator), allowing the display to be read in the dark. After the power switch is released, the illuminator will remain lit while the camera exposure meters are active (six seconds at default settings) or until the shutter is released or the power switch is rotated to D again.

Power switch

The Viewfinder

3 4

1 Framing grid (displayed when On is

selected for Custom Setting d2).......... 181

2 Reference circle for center-weighted

metering .........................................................87

3 Battery indicator*...........................................34

4 Black-and-white indicator*......................181

5 Focus points...................................54, 173, 174

6 Center focus point (normal frame)........ 174

7 Center focus point (wide frame)............. 174

8 “No memory card” warning*................... 181

9 Focus indicator .........................................38, 60

10 Flash value (FV) lock indicator ................ 198

11 Shutter speed............................................81, 83

12 Aperture (f-number)...............................82, 83

13 Battery indicator .............................................34

14 White balance bracketing indicator...... 191

15 Bracketing indicator ......................................92

16 ISO sensitivity indicator................................74

* Can be hidden with Custom Setting d4 (pg. 181).

9 10

20 22

17 Number of exposures remaining .............35

18 “K” (appears when memory remains for

19 Flash-ready indicator.....................................42

20 Autoexposure (AE) lock indicator.............88

21 Electronic analog exposure display.........84

22 Flash compensation indicator ...................91

23 Exposure compensation indicator...........90

24 Auto ISO sensitivity indicator.................. 166

25 ISO sensitivity compensation indicator..74

16 18112112 1913 17

Number of shots remaining before

memory buffer fills......................................65

White balance recording indicator ....... 101

Exposure compensation value ..................90

Flash compensation value .......................... 91

Capture mode indicator............................ 148

ISO sensitivity......................................... 74, 181

over 1000 exposures) .................................35

Exposure compensation..............................90

2524

The Viewfinder Display

Owing to the characteristics of this type of viewfinder display, you may notice fine lines radiating outward from the selected focus point. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction. If the battery is totally exhausted or not inserted, the display in the viewfinder will dim. The viewfinder display will return to normal when a fully-charged battery is inserted.

The Control Panel and Viewfinder

The response times and brightness of the control panel and viewfinder may vary with temperature.

The Shooting Information Display

Shooting information, including shutter speed, aperture, the number of exposures remaining, and AF-area mode, is

displayed in the monitor when the R button is pressed. the R button again to change selected settings (pg. 12). clear shooting information from the monitor, press the R button a third time or press the shutter-release button halfway. At default settings, the monitor will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for about 10 seconds.

23 4

Press

5 6 7

R button

121314151617

21 22 23 24

35 34

33 32 31

Nikon D90 Owner Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Q&A Index

Table of Contents

For Your Safety

Notices

Introduction

Overview

Getting to Know the Camera

The Camera Body

The Mode Dial

The Control Panel

The Viewfinder

The Shooting Information Display