Nikon F6 User Manual

Download

Instruction Manual

Contents

Before You Begin .............................................................................................2-14

Introduction .......................................................................................................4-5

Nomenclature/Controls ....................................................................................6-14

Camera body...............................................................................................6-7

Top LCD panel ................................................................................................8

Viewfinder display...........................................................................................9

Rear LCD panel (shooting data display) .........................................................10

Rear LCD panel (menu display) .....................................................................11

Command Dials and operating buttons ...................................................12-13

Multi-selector................................................................................................14

Basic Operation ...........................................................................................15-36

1. Installing Batteries....................................................................................16-17

2. Checking Battery Power ..........................................................................18-19

3. Mounting a Lens .....................................................................................20-21

4. Loading Film and Setting Film Advance Mode .........................................22-23

5. Setting Focus Mode, AF Area Mode and Focus Area................................24-25

6. Setting Metering System and Exposure Mode..........................................26-27

7. Holding the Camera and Focusing...........................................................28-29

8. Confirming Indications in Viewfinder and Releasing the Shutter ..............30-31

9. Rewinding the Film..................................................................................32-33

Setting Language and Date/Time ...................................................................34-36

Detailed Operation .....................................................................................37-86

Lens Compatibility..........................................................................................36-42

CPU Nikkor ...................................................................................................38

Non-CPU Nikkor ...........................................................................................39

Using a non-CPU Nikkor lenses.....................................................................40

Using a non-AI lenses ..............................................................................41-42

Film ...............................................................................................................43-47

Aligning frame counter and number of frame on the film/

Confirming film advance status.....................................................................43

Setting and confirming film speed ................................................................44

Selecting film advance mode ........................................................................45

Film rewinding with button operation...........................................................46

Rewinding film using the film rewind crank ..................................................47

Autofocus ......................................................................................................48-59

Selecting AF Servo ...................................................................................48-49

Selecting focus area.................................................................................50-51

Selecting AF Area mode ..........................................................................52-53

Combinations of AF functions (Single Servo AF: AF-S) .............................54-55

Combinations of AF functions (Continuous Servo AF: AF-C) ....................56-57

Focus lock................................................................................................58-59

Situations Where Autofocus May Not Work As Expected ....................................60

Manual Focus......................................................................................................61

Exposure Metering System .............................................................................62-63

Shooting in Each Exposure Mode...................................................................64-71

Programmed Auto ...................................................................................64-65

Shutter-Priority Auto................................................................................66-67

Aperture-Priority Auto .............................................................................68-69

Manual....................................................................................................70-71

Auto Exposure Lock .......................................................................................72-73

Exposure Compensation......................................................................................74

Auto Exposure Bracketing ..............................................................................75-79

Long Time Exposure ............................................................................................80

Diopter Adjustment/LCD Illuminator....................................................................81

Self-Timer Operation ...........................................................................................82

Depth-of-Field Preview/Film Plane Indicator .........................................................83

Mirror Up Photography .......................................................................................84

Changing Focusing Screens.................................................................................85

Self-Diagnostic Shutter System ............................................................................86

Menu Guide ...............................................................................................87-148

Operation in Menu (all menus).......................................................................88-89

Custom Setting Menu..................................................................................90-110

Setup Menu...............................................................................................111-124

Recording Shooting Data.....................................................................112-124

Shooting Menu..........................................................................................125-143

Imprinting Shooting Data ....................................................................126-137

Multiple Exposure ................................................................................138-139

Interval Timer Photography..................................................................140-143

Non-CPU lens.............................................................................................144-146

Two-Button Reset..............................................................................................147

Recorded/imprinted exposure compensation/flash exposure

compensation value ....................................................................................148

Flash Photography ..................................................................................149-163

Creative Lighting System............................................................................150-153

Non-CLS supporting Speedlight.........................................................................154

Non-TTL fash modes .........................................................................................155

Accessory shoe..................................................................................................156

Sync terminal ....................................................................................................156

Ready-light........................................................................................................156

Flash sync mode.........................................................................................157-158

Usable optional Speedlights .......................................................................159-161

Using Speedlight........................................................................................162-163

About Depth of Field.........................................................................................164

Miscellaneous ..........................................................................................165-191

Optional Accessories ..................................................................................166-171

Camera Care..............................................................................................172-173

Notes on Batteries.............................................................................................174

Troubleshooting .........................................................................................176-180

Specifications .............................................................................................181-187

Index..........................................................................................................188-191

Before You Begin

Basic Operation

Detailed Operation

Menu Guide

Flash Photography

Miscellaneous

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Nikon F6. Get to know your F6 camera, and be sure to read this manual thoroughly before using it. We recommend that you keep this manual handy.

Main features of the F6:

• Nikon’s exclusive new 11-area autofocus sensor (Multi-CAM2000) system, including 9 cross-type sensors, achieves superior performance in continuous high-speed shooting and enables sharp focus even on erratically moving subjects.

• Exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering with a 1,005-pixel RGB sensor provides a correct exposure in diverse shooting situations.

• Various settings feature a menu list displayed on the large-sized LCD panel on camera back, Custom Settings feature customized combinations of various functions/modes, and two Command Dials and a multi-selector provide access to more versatile functions.

• Various accessory systems including interchangeable lenses. When used with an optional Nikon Speedlight that features the Creative Lighting System (CLS), new levels of flash performance, including i-TTL, Auto FP High-Speed Sync and Advanced Wireless Lighting, can be achieved.

• Shooting data such as shutter speed, aperture or lens’ focal length can be stored in the camera and saved on a CompactFlash™ (CF) memory card (with the optional Data Reader MV-1).

Supplied accessories

Body cap ( 21)

* Strap is not supplied in the U.S.A. and Canada.

Two 3V lithium

batteries ( 16)

Strap*

Attaching strap

• Take test shots

Before taking pictures on important occasions (for example, at wedding or before taking the camera with you 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.

• Have Nikon spot-check your camera regularly

Nikon recommends that you have your camera serviced by an authorized dealer or service center at least once every two years.

• Using your camera correctly

Nikon F6 performance has been optimized for use with Nikon brand accessories. Accessories made by other manufacturers may not meet Nikon’s criteria for specifications, and nonconforming accessories could damage F6 components. Nikon cannot guarantee the performance of the F6 when it is used with anything other than Nikon brand accessories.

Marks used in this manual

This icon indicates cautions, information that should be read before use to prevent damage to the camera.

This icon indicates notes, information that should be read before using the camera.

This icon indicates tips, additional information that may be helpful when using the camera.

This icon indicates that more information is available elsewhere in this manual.

CSM 00: This icon indicates settings that can be fine-tuned from the Custom Settings menu.

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: http://www.europe-nikon.com/support

• For users 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, tips, answers to frequently-asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on photography. Additional information may be available from the Nikon representative in your area. See the URL below for contact information: http://nikonimaging.com/

Before You Begin

Nomenclature/Controls

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11

12 13 14 15

16 17

20 21 22

• Camera body

Before You Begin

24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31 32

33 34 35 36 37 38 39

41 42 43

1 Metering system selector

lock release ........................x 26, 62

2 Diopter adjustment knob..........x 81

3 Metering system selector....x 26, 62

4 Top LCD panel............................x 8

5 Exposure mode button..x 26, 64-71 6 Camera strap eyelet 7 Exposure compensation button

................................................x 74

8 Shutter release button ..............x 18

9 Power switch......................x 26, 19

!p Sub-Command Dial .............x 12-13

!q Depth-of-field preview button ..x 83

!w Film rewind crank .....................x 47

!e Film rewind knob .........x 22, 32, 47

!r Self-timer indicator LED ............x 82

!t Film advance mode selector lock

release ...................x 22, 45, 82, 84

!y Sync terminal..........................x 156

!u 10-pin terminal.......................x 171

!i Terminal cap

!o Lens release button ..................x 20

@p Focus mode selector...........x 48, 61

@q Function button .....x 108, 146, 152

@w Tripod socket ..........................x 187

@e Battery holder release knob ......x 16

@r Accessory shoe .......................x 156

@t Eyepiece shutter lever.........x 81, 82

@y Film advance mode selector

....................................x 22, 45, 84

@u Auto Exposure Bracketing button

................................................x 75

Film rewind (R2) button............x 46

@i Command lock button .......x 67, 69

@o Film confirmation window ........x 23

#p Rear LCD panel.........................x 10

#q MENU button.............x 11, 88, 147

#w Film speed (ISO) button ............x 44

#e Eyepiece DK-17 ........................x 81

#r AE/AF-L (Auto Exposure/Autofocus

lock) button .................x 58, 72, 99

#t AF start button...................x 49, 95

#y Main-Command Dial ...........x 12-13

#u Multi-selector ...........................x 14

#i Multi-selector lock lever

....................................x 24, 51, 88

#o AF Area mode selector .x 24, 50, 52 $p Film rewind (R1) button cover

................................................x 46

$q Film rewind (R1) button............x 46

$w INFO button ...........x 122, 145, 147

$e Flash sync mode button..........x 157

Nomenclature/Controls—continued

4 5321

9 10 11 12 13 14

• Top LCD panel

1 Shutter speed lock....................x 67

2 Shutter speed...............x 66, 70, 80

3 Aperture stop.....................x 21, 40

4 Aperture lock ...........................x 69

5 Aperture.............................x 68, 70

6 Sync speed .............................x 104

7 Exposure mode .............x 26, 64-71

8 Auto Exposure Bracketing.........x 75

9 Flexible program.......................x 64

!p Exposure compensation............x 74

!q Battery power...........................x 19

!w Exposure compensation value...x 74 !e Electronic analog exposure display

................................................x 71

Exposure compensation value

................................................x 74

Auto Exposure Bracketing status

................................................x 75

!r Frame counter ..........................x 22

• Viewfinder display

6 7 8

9 10 11 12 14 1715 16 18

201913

Before You Begin

1 12mm-dia. reference circle for

Center-Weighted Metering area

................................................x 63

2 Focus area (focus brackets).......x 50

Spot Metering area...................x 63

3 Electronic analog exposure display

................................................x 71

Exposure compensation value...x 74 Auto Exposure Bracketing status

................................................x 75

4 Exposure compensation............x 74

5 Auto Exposure Bracketing.........x 75

6 Auto Exposure Lock..................x 72

7 Shutter speed lock....................x 67

8 Aperture lock ...........................x 69

9 Focus indicators..................x 28, 29

!p Metering system.................x 26, 62

!q FV lock ...................................x 152

!w Exposure mode .............x 26, 64-71

!e Sync speed .............................x 104

!r Shutter speed...............x 66, 70, 80

!t Aperture stop.....................x 21, 40

!y Aperture.............................x 68, 70

!u Multiple exposure...................x 138

!i Battery power...........................x 19

!o Frame counter ..........................x 22

Exposure compensation value...x 74

@p Flash ready-light .....................x 156

Nomenclature/Controls—continued

4 5

3 7

15 21416

17918

1 5

8189

• Rear LCD panel (shooting data displays)

• At the default setting, shooting data is displayed in normal mode. It can be changed to detailed or large display by selecting “Detailed” or “Large” in Custom Setting “d7: Rear panel info” (x 103).

1 ISO...................................................x 44

2 Film speed........................................x 44

3 DX ...................................................x 23

4 EV steps in Auto Exposure Bracketing

........................................................x 75

5 Auto Exposure Bracketing ................x 75

6 Flash sync mode.............................x 157

7 Auto Exposure Bracketing status ......x 75

8 Multiple exposures .........................x 138

9 Number of shots in multiple exposure

......................................................x 138

Normal display

!p Data imprint...........................x 128, 133

!q Custom Setting ................................x 91

!w Focus area........................................x 50

!e AF servo mode .................................x 48

!r Lens number ..................................x 145

!t Shutter speed ......................x 66, 70, 80

!y Aperture ....................................x 68, 70

!u Exposure compensation....................x 74

!i Exposure compensation value ..........x 74

Detailed display

Large display

• Rear LCD panel (menu displays)

• Press the MENU button (if shooting data is displayed) to display the MENU. The shooting data is displayed by pressing the MENU button again.

• Five types of menu—Custom Setting, Setup, Shooting, Non-CPU lens and Language—are available with the F6.

• Custom Setting menu (x 90)

• Setup menu (x 111)

• Shooting menu (x 125)

Before You Begin

• Non-CPU lens (x 144)

• Language (x 34)

Nomenclature/Controls—continued

• Command Dials and operating buttons

• The F6’s Main- and Sub-Command Dials can be used alone or in combination with other buttons to select and set various functions and modes.

Sub-Command Dial

Main-Command Dial

• Film

• Setting ISO film speed (x 44)

• Exposure

• Selecting exposure mode (x 26, 64-71)

• Performing Flexible Program in Programmed Auto

exposure mode (x 64)

• Setting the shutter speed in Shutter-Priority Auto or Manual exposure mode*1(x 66, 70)

• Setting the aperture in Aperture-Priority Auto or Manual exposure mode*1(x 68, 70)

• Locking/unlocking shutter speed*1(x 67, 70)

• Locking/unlocking aperture*1(x 69, 70)

• Setting exposure compensation value*2(x 74)

• Setting the number of shots in Auto Exposure Bracketing*3(x 75)

• Setting an EV compensation value in Auto Exposure Bracketing*3(x 75)

• Flash

• Selecting flash sync mode (x 157)

Before You Begin

*1 CSM f4: The shutter speed can be set to change with the Sub-Command

Dial and the aperture with the Main-Command Dial (x 109).

*2 CSM b3: Exposure compensation can be set to be activated with the Main-

or Sub-Command Dial without having to press the exposure compensation button (x 97).

*3 CSM e8: Auto Exposure Bracketing can be set to turn on/off with the Main-

Command Dial, while the Sub-Command Dial can be used to select the number of shots and EV compensation value (x 106).

Nomenclature/Controls—continued

• Multi-selector

• Use the multi-selector to select focus area (x 50), operate menu (x 88), or display shooting data (x 122).

• When “Activate meter” is selected in Custom Setting “f2: Multi selector”, exposure meter can be activated with the multi-selector (when exposure meter is off) (x 107). (Or, by selecting “Initiate AF”, Autofocus can be activated.)

• Focus area selection

P (Top) :Select top focus area or focus area group* { (Bottom): Select bottom focus area or focus area group* > (Right) : Select right focus area or focus area group* < (Left) : Select left focus area or focus area group* U (Center) : Select center focus area or focus area group*

• Menu operation

P (Top) : Select option item or set option such as a number* { (Bottom): Select option item or set option such as a number* > (Right) : Set selection or go to next page*

< (Left) : Cancel selection or go back one page* U (Center) : Set or go to next page*

• Shooting data display

P (Top) : Display film number or frame data { (Bottom): Display film number or frame data > (Right) : Set film number or go back to film number selection display < (Left) : Go back to shooting data display or film number selection display

*1 CSM a6: Focus area position can be set to change continuously in the same

horizontal or vertical direction. With this option, the focus area can be switched to the opposite position without pressing the opposite position on the multi-selector (x 96).

*2 CSM f1: Your selected focus area can be set to be highlighted when the

center of the multi-selector is pressed. Also, any operation can be canceled when the center of the multi-selector is pressed (x 107).

*3 CSM f4: You can also activate menu operation with the Command Dials

(x 110).

Basic Operation

Shooting modes/functions explained in this section are as follows:

Lens attached G/D-type AF Nikkor x 20 Film speed s x 23 Film advance mode S (Single frame) x 22 Focus mode S (Single Servo AF) x 24 AF area mode g (Single Area AF) x 24 Exposure metering ” (3D Color Matrix Metering) x 26 Exposure mode ¡ (Programmed Auto) x 26 Custom Setting Initial (default) settings x 90

Basic Operation

1. Installing Batteries

Use two 3V lithium batteries.

Turn the power switch off, then turn the

battery holder (MS-41) release knob toward the ◊ icon to release the lock.

• When replacing batteries, be sure to turn the power switch off and replace both batteries at the same time. Always use fresh batteries of the same brand and type.

Remove the battery holder and insert two

3V lithium batteries with the “+” and “–” ends positioned as marked on the battery holder.

• Incorrect positioning of the batteries’ + and – poles may damage the camera.

Return battery holder to the battery

chamber and turn the battery holder release knob away from the ◊ icon to lock the holder.

Note on storing batteries

Keep the batteries out of children’s reach. If swallowed, contact a doctor immediately. (For “Notes on Batteries”, x 174.)

Backup battery

The F6 is equipped with a built-in backup battery for the camera’s clock. This charges in approximately 48 hours when 3 V lithium or the optional Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40 (x 166) is supplying power to the F6. When the built-in battery is fully charged, it is able to supply the F6’s built-in clock with power for approx. 4 months.

When camera’s built-in clock has been reset

When power is not supplied for a long time or when batteries are installed for the first time and power is turned on, “CLOCK HAS BEEN RESET. Set time and date.” may be displayed in the rear LCD panel (the display returns to normal when any of the F6’s buttons or Command Dial are used). In this case, set the date and time (x 35).

• The camera functions normally without setting the date and time but shooting data

cannot be recorded (date and time) (x 112) or imprinted (day/hour/minute, date and time) (x 126) correctly and interval timer (x 140) cannot be executed correctly.

• If the camera power switch is turned on after the clock data has been lost, date and time start from 2004, January 1st, 0 hour 0 minute. If date and time are left unset, the clock data will be lost every time the power switch is turned off.

For number of film rolls that can be shot with fresh batteries, see page

185.

Power source other than 3V lithium batteries

Eight AA-type batteries or optional Rechargeable Li-ion Batteries EN-EL4 (with optional Battery Chamber Cover BL-3) can be used to power the F6 with an optional Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40 (x 166) attached.

Basic Operation

We recommend that you take spare batteries with you, especially when traveling.

2. Checking Battery Power

Battery power can be checked in the top LCD panel and viewfinder.

Turn the power switch on and confirm

battery power with the N indication.

• If N appears, battery power is sufficient. If

any other indication appears, see table on the next page.

• When the power switch is turned on, exposure meter turns on.

Top LCD panel

Viewfinder

• Shutter release button operation and exposure meter

• Some indicators in the top and rear LCD panels and all indicators in the viewfinder turn off after approx. 8 sec. if the power switch is turned on and no operation is performed (exposure meter off). To reactivate the indicators (exposure meter on), lightly press the shutter release button.

• “F6 Nikon” is displayed in the rear LCD panel when exposure meter is off under following conditions:

- Film speed: s

- AF area mode: g (Single Area AF)

- Focus area: center

- Exposure mode: ¡ (Programmed Auto)

- Exposure compensation: 00 (no compensation)

- Auto Exposure Bracketing: no setting

- Data imprint: no setting (all off)

- Flash sync mode: Front-Curtain Sync

CSM c4: It is possible to change the duration before automatic meter switch-off occurs (x 100).

Indications and battery status

Battery indications and corresponding battery power status are as follows:

Top LCD panel

(appears) (appears)

(blinks) (blinks)

• Battery life depends on the battery brand and temperatures. Low battery power

indication M appears or blinks relatively soon at low temperatures. However, battery power may recover and the indication returns to ˜ or N when the temperature returns to normal.

Viewfinder

(Camera’s meter on)

Sufficient battery power.

Battery power has begun to decline.

Batteries are nearing exhaustion. Have a fresh set ready.

Batteries are exhausted. Replace batteries. (Shutter locks and rear LCD panel turns off.)

Battery status

Indications when the camera power is off

When the power switch is turned off (with batteries installed), only the frame counter is displayed in the top LCD panel.

For setting language and date, see pages 34 and 35.

• Set language (x 34) for rear LCD panel displays. In addition to English, German,

Spanish, French, Chinese (simplified) and Japanese are available.

• Set date and time (x 35) for recording/imprinting shooting data (x 112/126) or Interval Timer photography (x 140).

Basic Operation

3. Mounting a Lens

Nikon recommends using a G- or D-type CPU lens to take full advantage of the features the camera offers.

CPU Nikkor lenses have

CPU contacts

• Detaching the lens

D-type Nikkor lensG-type Nikkor lens

Turn the power switch off.

• Turn the power switch off before mounting or detaching lenses.

Mount the lens to the camera body.

• Position lens in the camera’s bayonet mount so that the mounting indexes on the lens and camera body are aligned, then twist the lens counterclockwise until it locks into place.

• Be sure not to touch the lens release button.

Lock aperture at the minimum setting.

• With a CPU Nikkor lens other than G-type, set the lens to its minimum aperture (smallest f/stop) and lock. When a CPU Nikkor lens other than G-type is not set to its smallest aperture setting and the power switch is turned on, ƒEE will blink in the top LCD panel and viewfinder and the shutter cannot be released.

• G-type Nikkor lenses have no aperture ring. Unlike other CPU Nikkor lenses, aperture does not need to be set to minimum.

• Turn the power switch off, push and hold the lens

release button Å, then turn the lens clockwise Í.

Attaching/detaching the lens

• Make sure to turn the power switch off before attaching/detaching the lens.

• Avoid direct sunlight when attaching/detaching the lens.

When camera is left unattended without a lens

If you leave the camera unattended without a lens attached, be sure to attach the supplied body cap (x 4), or optional body cap BF-1A. (BF-1 body cap cannot be used.)

For details on lens compatibility, see page 38.

Non-CPU Nikkor lens

With a non-CPU Nikkor lens attached, the aperture indication shows the number of EV steps from the maximum aperture (e.g. ∂2: two steps from the maximum aperture). However, by specifying the focal length and maximum aperture using ”specifying lens data“ (x 144), functions available with a CPU lens, such as aperture indication or Color Matrix Metering, can be used. Non-AI lenses cannot be attached without modification; see page 41 before attaching a non-AI lens.

Basic Operation

4. Loading Film and Setting Film Advance Mode

Turn the power switch on and lift the film

rewind knob. The camera back will pop open.

Insert film and pull film leader out as far as

the red index mark.

• Film cartridge can be loaded smoothly if inserted from the top.

• Make sure to insert the film cartridge all the way in.

• Make sure to align the film leader to the red index mark; if the film leader is not properly aligned to the index mark (short of or beyond the mark), film may not load properly.

• Hold the film cartridge down to ensure that the film is properly positioned with no slack.

Press the film rewind knob down to its

original position and gently close camera back until it locks. Film automatically advances to the first frame.

• When 1 appears on the top LCD panel, the film has advanced to the first frame.

• If Err and E blink in the top LCD panel and viewfinder, and “FILM LOAD ERROR” is displayed in the rear LCD panel, the film is not properly installed. Open the camera back again and reload film.

Set the film advance mode selector to S

(single-frame shooting) while pressing the film advance mode selector lock release.

Loading/removing film

• When loading film for the first time, remove the shutter curtain’s protective cover .

• Shutter curtains are very thin. Do not touch the shutter curtains with your finger or the film leader.

• Avoid direct sunlight when changing film.

Film slack

Do not turn the film rewind crank to reduce film slack, because the tip of the film may come off and film will not advance properly. It could also damage the shutter curtain.

DX-coded film

When the camera’s film speed is set to s and DX-coded film is loaded, film speed will be set automatically (ISO 25-5000). When a non-DXcoded film is loaded with the camera film speed set to s, Err blinks in the top LCD panel and viewfinder and “DX ERR” is displayed in the rear LCD panel, and the shutter locks. In this case, set film speed manually (x 44).

You can check the number of available exposures on the film roll through the film cartridge confirmation window.

ISO (film speed)

DX mark

Film rewind knob

No lock is available for the film rewind knob on this camera. Make sure you do not accidentally open the camera back.

Basic Operation

For details on film advance mode, see page 45.

CSM d1: Camera can be set to advance the film automatically to the first

frame by pressing the shutter release button (x 101).

5. Set Focus Mode, AF Area Mode and Focus Area

Set the focus mode selector to S (Single

Servo AF).

• Make sure the focus mode selector clicks properly into position.

Set the AF Area mode selector to g.

• In Single Area AF mode, you can select your

desired focus area from 11 possible choices (x 52).

Rotate the multi-selector lock lever to

release the lock and select the center focus area with the multi-selector.

• Lightly press the shutter release button and press the multi-selector up/down/right/left to shift the focus area in your desired direction. (Press the center of the multi-selector to select center focus area.)

• The selected focus area will be highlighted in the rear LCD panel (in normal and detailed display) and indicated in red in the viewfinder.

In normal display

Focus mode set to S or C

Do not attempt to rotate the lens focus ring manually while the focus mode is set to S or C, unless the lens is an AF-S or AF-I type AF Nikkor and is set to M/A mode.

For situations where autofocus may not work as expected, see page 60.

Characteristics of AF Area modes

AF Area mode

Characteristic

g Single Area AF Mode

h Dynamic AF Mode

Group Dynamic AF

Mode

Dynamic AF Mode

j with Closest-Subject

Priority

For details regarding focus mode, focus area and AF Area mode, see pages 48-61.

Focus is obtained at your selected focus area out of 11 possible choices.

You designate the primary sensor (the first to detect the subject), then if the detected subject moves, Dynamic AF automatically shifts to the next sensor that detects the subject, following it by shifting among a progression of sensors as the subject moves.

A group of neighboring focus areas at the center, top, bottom, left and right areas of the frame can be selected. Group Dynamic AF Mode automatically maintains a focus on the subject located closest to one of the focus areas within a group.

Automatically selects one of 11 focus areas in which the closest subject is located. If the subject moves from the selected focus area, the camera will automatically focus on the subject using data from the other focus areas.

Basic Operation

6. Setting Metering System and Exposure Mode

Set metering system to ” (3D Color Matrix Metering) and exposure mode to ¡ (Programmed Auto).

Set the metering system selector to ”

(Matrix Metering) while pressing the metering system selector lock release.

• The Matrix Metering indication q appears in the viewfinder.

• Exposure data from the 1,005-pixel RGB sensor, as well as scene brightness, contrast, subject distance (Distance Information) and the scene’s colors are accounted for in order to provide an accurate exposure in 3D Color Matrix Metering (x 62).

Rotate the Main-Command Dial while

pressing the exposure mode button to set the exposure mode to ¡ (Programmed Auto).

• When the shutter release button is lightly pressed, the correct shutter speed and aperture—as automatically determined by the camera—appear in the top and rear (in large and detailed display) LCD panel and viewfinder.

Metering Systems

Since brightness and film sensitivity determine the proper combination of shutter speed and aperture for correct exposure, measuring subject brightness is very important. The F6 provides three metering systems. With Matrix Metering (x 62), brightness data is detected using the 1,005-pixel Matrix sensor. With Center-Weighted Metering (x 63), brightness is detected in the central area of the viewfinder. With Spot Metering (x 63), sensitivity is concentrated in one of the 11 available focus areas.

Exposure

Light from the subject passes through the lens and exposes the film. Shutter speed and aperture control how much light reaches the film. The correct combination of shutter speed and aperture results in a correct exposure—a result provided by the F6’s four exposure modes: Programmed Auto, Shutter-Priority Auto, Aperture-Priority Auto and Manual.

Characteristics of exposure modes

Symbol Exposure mode

Programmed

Auto P. 64

Shutter-Priority

™

Auto P. 66

Aperture-Priority

Auto P. 68

¢ Manual P. 70

Shooting situations

Camera controls shutter speed and aperture automatically, while allowing you to make other settings, such as Flexible Program (x 64) or exposure compensation (x 74).

You set your desired shutter speed, and the camera selects the correct aperture. Allows you to “freeze” the motion of a moving subject using a fast shutter speed or blur the subject using a slower speed.

You set the desired aperture, and the camera selects the correct shutter speed. This lets you determine the depth of the in-focus area (x 164), so you can choose whether near or distant subjects are in sharp focus, or whether foreground or background should be blurred.

Shutter speed and aperture are set manually. Long Time Exposure (Bulb) can also be selected.

Basic Operation

7. Holding the Camera and Focusing

Lightly pressing the shutter release button automatically focuses the camera on the subject.

Hold the camera properly.

• Keep your elbow propped against your body for support.

• Stand with one foot a half step forward keeping your upper body as still as possible.

• Use your right hand to grasp the camera handgrip and your left hand to cradle the lens.

Compose your shot.

• Center the focus brackets on your subject and lightly press the shutter release button.

• Lightly pressing the shutter release button automatically focuses the camera on the subject (focus brackets flicker momentarily) and when the subject is in focus, / appears in the viewfinder.

Camera shake

Camera shake is likely to occur when the camera is not held steadily and/or when using a slow shutter speed. In general, you should set the shutter speed faster than ‘1/focal length of your lens sec. (Example: when using a 50mm lens, set the shutter speed faster than 1/50 sec.) Use of a tripod or VR lens is recommended for shooting at slower shutter speeds.

Composing frame

The F6’s viewfinder frame shows approximately 100% of the image actually exposed on the film frame. Please be aware that most processing labs partially crop the edges of film.

Focus indications

• Focus indicators appear or blink as follows:

/ appears: Subject is in focus. < appears: Camera is focused on an area between the camera and the

subject.

> appears: Camera is focused on an area behind the subject. ? blinks: Unable to focus using autofocus.

Diopter adjustment (x 81) enables you to see more clearly through the viewfinder.

To take a picture of a subject outside the focus area use focus lock (x 58).

In situations where autofocus may not work as expected, x 60.

Basic Operation

Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40

Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40 (optional, x 166) features a shutter release button for shooting in vertical position.

CSM a4: Autofocus detection can be set to start by pressing the AF start button (rather than lightly pressing the shutter release button) (x 95).

8. Confirming Indications in Viewfinder and Releasing the Shutter

Confirm that / (in-focus indicator) appears in the viewfinder, then slowly, fully depress the shutter release button.

Confirm indications in the viewfinder while

lightly pressing the shutter release button.

• Shutter speed and aperture are shown in 1/3 EV steps.

• If any warning indications appear in the LCD panel or viewfinder, see page 65.

Confirm that focus indicator / appears and

slowly depress the shutter release button.

• After the shutter is released, the film automatically advances to the next frame and the next shot can be taken.

For self-timer operation, x 82.

For remote control operation, x 171.

Focus Tracking

When the focus mode selector is set to Single Servo AF (S) (x 48) or Continuous Servo AF (C) (x 48) and the shutter release button is lightly pressed or the AF Start button (x 49) is continuously pressed, the camera will automatically switch to Focus Tracking when a moving subject is detected. Focus Tracking enables the camera to analyze the speed of the moving subject based on the focus detection data. It also obtains the correct focus by anticipating the subject’s position—then driving the lens to that position—at the exact moment of exposure.

• In Single Servo AF, Focus Tracking is activated with a subject that has been moving in advance to the focus detection, and focus is locked when the subject stops moving and / appears in the viewfinder.

• In Continuous Servo AF, the camera continues to track a subject (even a subject that began moving during focus detection) and focus is not locked.

Imprinting/recording shooting data

With the F6, date, shutter speed, aperture and lens focal length can be imprinted in the frame, between the frames or before the first frame on the film roll. (The data that can be imprinted differs with the position on the film.) The shooting data is also recorded in the camera‘s built-in memory. For details on data imprinting, see page

126. For details on recording data, see page 112.

CSM b1: Shutter speed and aperture can be changed to display settings in steps of 1/2 or one EV (x 97).

Basic Operation

9. Rewinding the Film

Always make sure that the film has completely rewound before removing the film cartridge.

Film starts to rewind automatically after the

last shot is taken.

• o––, o–, and then o is displayed in the top

LCD panel and viewfinder while the film is rewinding. The frame counter counts down backwards until the rewind is complete. Also, ”Rewinding . . .“ is displayed in the rear LCD panel.

Confirm that E is blinking in the top LCD

panel. Then, open the camera back by lifting the film rewind knob and remove the film cartridge.

• Film is completely rewound when the frame

counter shows a blinking E in the top LCD panel and viewfinder, and “REWIND COMPLETED” is displayed in the rear LCD panel. (E appears without blinking in the top LCD panel, and viewfinder indication and “REWIND COMPLETED” display in the rear LCD panel disappear when the exposure meter is off.) Make sure the film is completely rewound (E is blinking or “REWIND COMPLETED” is displayed), then open the camera back away from sunlight and remove the film cartridge.

For mid-roll rewind, x 46.

To rewind film manually using the film rewind crank, x 47.

Film rewind knob

No lock is available for the film rewind knob on this camera. Make sure that the knob is down before rewinding film.

Pictures taken on frames beyond the film’s indicated number of exposures may be discarded in the process of developing.

CSM d2: The F6 can be programmed to not automatically begin film rewind

when it reaches the end of a roll (execute film rewind by pressing the film rewind buttons) (x 101).

CSM d3: Film leader can be set to remain outside the film cartridge when it is rewound (x 101).

CSM d4: Film advance can be changed to stop at the 35th or 36th frame (x 102).

Basic Operation

Setting Language and Date/Time

You can set the language and date/time for various settings in the menu, imprint/record shooting data or perform Interval Timer photography.

• Setting language

1 Turn the power switch on and press the MENU button to display menu.

2 Display Language menu.

• Press P/{ on multi-selector to select “Language” and > so the available

languages are displayed.

3 Select a language.

• Press P/{ to select language (English) then press > to set and return to

menu display.

Available options

Deutsch: German Français: French English: English Chinese (simplified) Español: Spanish Japanese

• Setting date/time

1 Turn the power switch on and press the MENU button to display menu.

2 Display Date in SET-UP menu.

• Press P/{ on multi-selector to select “SET-UP” then press > so the SET-UP menu is displayed.

• Press P/{ to select “Date” and > so the date/time setup screen is displayed.

3 Set date and time.

• Press P/{ to adjust highlighted year.

• Press > to highlight month, day, hour and minute in that order and adjust each with P/{.

• Press > after adjusting minute to start the clock and return to SET-UP menu.

Basic Operation

Setting Language and Date/Time—continued

4 Select date display order.

• Press P/{ on multi-selector to select “Date format” then press > so the

date display screen is displayed.

5 Set date display order.

• Press P/{ to select desired date display order and > to set.

• The date display order in the rear LCD panel or in imprinted data (x 126)

is changed according to the display order set in this section.

6 Complete the procedure.

• Press < to backtrack display by display, or press MENU button to return to

the Shooting data display.

Internal clock

The camera clock is less accurate than most watches and household clocks. Check the clock regularly against more accurate time pieces and reset as necessary.

Detailed Operation

This section features detailed descriptions of all camera functions—including lens, film, focus, exposure and other functions.

Detailed Operation

Lens Compatibility

Use of a Nikon CPU lens (except IX-Nikkor/DX-Nikkor) is recommended with this camera. D or G-type AF lenses provide access to all available functions.

• CPU Nikkor

Mode Focus mode Exposure mode Metering system

Manual with

Lens/accessories

D-type AF Nikkor, G-type AF Nikkor, AF-S Nikkor AF-I Nikkor

PC Micro 85mm f/2.8D AF-S/AF-I Teleconverter Non-D/G-type AF Nikkor

(except AF Nikkor for R* F3AF)

AI-P Nikkor — R*

*1 This camera is compatible with the Vibration Reduction function of the VR Nikkor lens. *2 IX-Nikkor lenses cannot be attached. DX-Nikkor lenses are designed exclusively for digital SLRs

and cannot be used with 35mm (135)-type SLRs.

*3 The camera’s exposure metering and flash control system do not work properly when shifting

and/or tilting the lens, or when using an aperture other than the maximum aperture. *4 When lens is not shifted or tilted. *5 Compatible with AF-S and AF-I Nikkor, except for AF-S 17-35mm f/2.8D IF-ED, AF-S 24-85mm

f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED, AF-S VR 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED and AF-S 28-70mm f/2.8D IF-ED.

Autofocus cannot be used with the AF-S TC-17E II, AF-S TC-20E II and AF-I TC-20E in

combination with the AF-S VR 200-400mm f/4G ED, AF-S 300mm f/4D ED, AF-S 500mm f/4D

II ED, AF-S 500mm f/4D ED, AF-I 500mm f/4D ED, AF-S 600mm f/4D II ED, AF-S 600mm f/4D

ED, AF-I 600mm f/4D ED. *6 With maximum effective aperture of f/5.6 or faster. *7 When AF 80-200mm f/2.8, AF 35-70mm f/2.8, AF 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5 or AF 28-85mm 3.5-

4.5 is used in a telephoto zoom position at close range, image on the clear matte field may

not coincide with the focus indication. In this case, focus manually using clear matte field. *8 With maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster.

Autofocus electronic Manual ¡™£¢

rangefinder

*1,*2R R R RRRR R — RR

*3— R* *5R*

R ———RR — RR

R RRRR R — RR

R RRRR — RRR

Matrix

3D Color Color

Center-

Weighted

Spot

• Non-CPU Nikkor

Mode Focus mode Exposure mode Metering system

Manual with

Lens/accessories

AI-S or AI type Nikkor, Series-E

AI-modified Nikkor — R* Non-AI-type Nikkor* Medical-Nikkor

120mm f/4 Reflex-Nikkor*

PC-Nikkor* Teleconverter TC-16A R* AI-S or AI type

Teleconverters Bellows Focusing

Attachment PB-6 Auto Extension Rings

(PK-11A, PK-12, — R* PK-13 and PN-11)

Autofocus electronic Manual ¡™£¢

rangefinder

R ——RR — RRR

R ——R

R*3R*

— R*

— RR———R*9————

——R ——RR ——RR ——R ——R

————RR — R*15R*15R*

— R*

R ——RR — R*15R*15R*

R ——R

R ——RR ——RR

*1 Usable by setting focal length and maximum aperture in “specifying lens data” (x 144).

Accurate exposure metering cannot be obtained with some lenses even when focal length and

maximum aperture are specified. Use Center-Weighted or Spot metering in this case. *2 Exposure is locked to the center focus area. *3 With TC-16A attached and maximum effective aperture of f/5.6 or faster. *4 With maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster. *5 With modification (x 41). *6 By stop-down metering. (Release shutter while pressing depth-of-field preview button.) (x 83) *7 By stop-down metering. *8 By stop-down metering. If the aperture is slower than f/4, set “+0.5” with the “b6: Screen

comp.” in the Custom Setting (x 98). *9 With shutter speed set to 1/125 sec. or slower (exposure meter of the camera cannot be used).

*10 Some lenses cannot be attached (x 40). *11 By stop-down metering. Exposure is determined by pre-setting lens aperture. Exposure must be

determined before shifting; use AE/AF-L button before shifting.

*12 By stop-down metering. Exposure is determined by pre-setting lens aperture. Exposure must be

determined before shifting.

*13 By stop-down metering. Set to “+0.5” in the “b6: Screen comp.” in the Custom Setting (x 98). *14 With maximum aperture of f/3.5 or faster in combination with AI-S, AI or Series-E lens. However,

some lenses cannot be used (x 40).

*15 Exposure compensation is necessary with some lenses. See the instruction manual of the

teleconverter for details.

*16 With maximum effective aperture of f/5.6 or faster. *17 By stop-down metering. Exposure is determined by stopping down aperture on the bellows.

Exposure must be determined before shooting.

Matrix

3D Color

*7——R*8R*

*12——R*13R*

*7——R*13R*

Color*

Center-

Weighted,

Spot*

Detailed Operation

Lens Compatibility—continued

• Using a non-CPU Nikkor lens

Limitations of non-CPU Nikkor lenses

• Set exposure mode to £ (Aperture-Priority Auto) or ¢ (Manual). When other modes are selected, the exposure indication (¡ or ™) in the LCD panel blinks, and exposure mode is automatically set to Aperture-Priority Auto. (£ appears in the viewfinder.)

• With AI Nikkor lens, Color Matrix Metering can be used when the focal length and maximum aperture are set by “specifying lens data” (x 144). If Matrix Metering q is selected without specifying the lens data, however, the metering system automatically switches to Center-Weighted w.

• With AI Nikkor lens, aperture can be displayed when the maximum aperture is set by “specifying lens data”. If the lens data are not specified, however, the aperture indication will show the number of EV steps from the maximum aperture (e.g. ∂2: two steps from the maximum aperture).

• With a non-CPU lens, the aperture cannot be set using the Sub-Command Dial. Set/confirm aperture using the lens aperture ring.

Accessories that can be attached under certain conditions

• Bellows Focusing Attachment PB-6: use Auto Extension Ring (PB-6D is required to make horizontal/vertical change) Double Release AR-10 (with Adapter Cord MC-25) is useful when using the PB-6.

Non-CPU lenses/accessories that cannot be attached to the F6

The following Nikkor lenses/accessories cannot be attached to the F6 (damage may occur if attachment is attempted): Fisheye 6mm f/5.6, Fisheye 7.5mm f/5.6, Fisheye 8mm f/8, OP 10mm f/5.6, old type 21mm f/4, old type PC 35mm f/3.5, old type Reflax 500mm f/8, old type Reflex 1000mm f/6.3, 80mm f/2.8 for F3AF, 200mm f/3.5 for F3AF, TC-16 Teleconverter for F3AF, K2 Ring, Repro-copy Outfit PF-4

Lenses that cannot be attached to the TC-16A Teleconverter

PC-Nikkor, AI-modified Nikkor, AI Micro Nikkor 55mm f/3.5, AI Nikkor 20mm f/2.8, 35mm f/1.4, 400mm f/2.8, 400mm f/3.5, 28mm f/2 (No. 540020 or smaller), 28mm f/2.8 (No. 500000 or smaller), 35mm f/2 (No. 931000 or smaller), 35mm f/2.8 (No. 880000 or smaller), 50mm f/1.4 (No. 398000 or smaller), 50mm f/2 (No. 364000 or smaller)

• Using a non-AI lens

To attach a Nikon lens that does not have an AI coupling mechanism (lenses made before 1977), the F6‘s meter coupling lever must first be modified. Contact an authorized Nikon dealer or service center for modification. After modification, follow the instructions for attaching a non-AI lens.

AI lens and non-AI lens

Meter coupling

shoe

Meter coupling

shoe

Non-AI lens

Attaching non-AI lens after modifying the meter coupling lever

Meter coupling lever

AI lens

Meter coupling

ridge

No meter

coupling ridge

• AI lenses have a meter coupling ridge and holes on the meter coupling shoe (AF Nikkor lens [except for F3AF], Series-E and Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 do not have a meter coupling shoe).

Push the meter coupling lever up.

Detailed Operation

Position lens in the camera’s bayonet mount

so that the mounting indexes on the lens and camera body are aligned. Twist lens counterclockwise until it locks into place.

Lens Compatibility—continued

Nikkor lenses that can be attached after camera body modification

The following Nikkor lenses can be attached after modification of the camera’s meter coupling lever:

• Non-AI lens

• Lenses with Focusing Unit AU-1 (400mm f/4.5, 600mm f/5.6, 800mm f/8 and 1200mm f/11)

• PC 28mm f/4 (Factory Serial No. 180900 or smaller)

• PC 35mm f/2.8 (No. 906200 or smaller)

• Reflex 1000mm f/11 (No. 142361 to 143000)

• Reflex 2000mm f/11 (No. 200111 to 200310)

• 180-600mm f/8 ED (No. 174041 to 174180)

• 360-1200mm f/11 ED (No. 174031 to 174127)

• 200-600mm f/9.5 (No. 280001 to 300490)

Film

• Aligning frame counter and number of frame on the film

The frame counter and the number of frame on the film in use can be aligned.

Insert film after rotating the camera sprocket with your finger until it stops rotating.

• You can rotate the sprocket in either direction.

• The frame counter and the number of frame on the film may not align precisely with some films.

• Confirming film advance status

Film advance status can be confirmed while camera back is opened.

Turn the power switch on and lift the film

rewind knob. The camera back will pop open.

Insert film and press the film rewind knob

down.

Align the film leader to the index mark and

depress the shutter release button.

• Depress the shutter release button while aligning the perforations on the film with the projections on the film spool.

• Film advances another frame when the camera back is closed. (Release the shutter when “Press rel button” is set in Custom Setting “d1: Film loading”, x 101.)

• Note that the usable number of frames decreases as you keep depressing the shutter release button to confirm the film advance status.

Detailed Operation

Film—continued

•Setting and confirming film speed

When using non-DX-coded film or when changing the film speed of DX-coded film to increase or decrease sensitivity, follow the instructions below.

Rotate the Main-Command Dial while pressing the film speed ISO button to set film speed for the roll in use.

• Film speed can be set to s and between ISO 6-

6400 in 1/3 steps.

• When film speed is set to s and DX-coded film is

installed, film speed is set automatically between ISO 25 and 5000.

• With non-DX-coded film, film speed can be set between ISO 6-6400.

• Film speed set on the camera is displayed in the rear LCD panel (in normal and detailed display). (Press the ISO button to confirm film speed in the large display.)

Manually set film speed overrides the automatically selected DX-coded film speed, enabling you to easily increase or decrease film sensitivity.

CSM d6: When film speed is set to s and non-DX-coded film is loaded, Err blinks in the top LCD panel and viewfinder and “DX ERR” is displayed in the rear LCD panel after film is advanced to the first frame. This warning indication can be changed to appear when the power switch is turned on and camera back is closed (without advancing film to the first frame) (x 102).

•Selecting film advance mode

S (single-frame shooting), CL (continuous low-speed shooting), CH (continuous high-speed shooting), Cs (continuous silent-low-speed shooting), V (self-timer) and M-UP (mirror up) are available for a variety of shooting situations.

To select film advance mode, rotate the film advance mode selector while pressing the film advance mode selector lock release.

• The following film advance modes are available:

S: Single-frame shooting

Fully depressing the shutter release button takes one picture and automatically advances the film by one frame.

L: Continuous low-speed shooting

Shots are taken continuously at approx. 2 fps (approx. 4 fps with Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40) as long as you keep the shutter release button fully depressed.

CH: Continuous high-speed shooting

Shots are taken continuously at approx. 5.5 fps (approx. 8 fps with Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40) as long as you keep the shutter release button fully depressed.

Cs: Continuous silent-low-speed shooting

Shots are taken continuously at approx. 1 fps (approx. 2 fps with Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40) as long as you keep the shutter release button fully depressed. In this mode, film rewind also slows and produces minimal rewind noise.

V: Self-timer

Use the self-timer when you want to be in the photograph (x 82).

M-UP:Mirror up

In a situation such as when you want to minimize camera shake, use mirror up photography. Press shutter release button once to raise the mirror, and press again to take photograph (x 84).

* Film advance speed is tested using the camera settings of focus mode C, exposure

mode ¢, shutter speed 1/250 sec. or faster, at normal temperature of 20°C (68°F), with fresh 3V lithium batteries, for the first to 36th frames of a film.

Detailed Operation

When batteries are exhausted (M appears in the top LCD panel) in S, CH or self-timer mode, film advance speed slows down since film advance automatically switches to start after the camera’s mirror retracts. (Normally, film advance begins immediately when the mirror starts to retract.) In this case, battery replacement is recommended.

Film—continued

•Film rewinding with button operation

To rewind film at mid-roll or when the Custom Setting Menu “d2: Film rewind” (x 101) is set to “Manual”, rewind the film according to the following instructions.

Open the R1 button cover and press the film rewind R1 „ button then press the R2 „ button.

• o–– blinks in the top LCD panel and viewfinder during film rewind and the frame counter counts backwards until rewind is complete. Also, “Rewinding...” is displayed in the rear LCD panel during film rewind.

• Film is completely rewound when the frame counter shows a blinking E in the top LCD panel and viewfinder, and “REWIND COMPLETED” is displayed in the rear LCD panel. (E appears without blinking in the top LCD panel, and viewfinder indication and “REWIND COMPLETED” disappear from the rear LCD panel when the exposure meter is off.) Open the camera back and remove the film cartridge.

When rewinding film, make sure the film rewind knob is down.

• Film cannot be rewound with the film rewind knob in up position.

If film does not start to rewind or film

rewind stops at mid-roll

• When battery power is very low, or at low temperatures, film may not start rewinding or film rewind may stop at mid-roll, and o–– and the frame number will blink in the top LCD panel and viewfinder. In this case, turn the power switch off, change batteries, then turn the power switch on and rewind film again. Or, rewind film manually using film rewind crank (x 47).

• When the power switch is turned off during film rewind, film rewind stops. In this case, turn the power switch on and rewind film again. Or, activate film rewind manually using the film rewind crank (x 47).

CSM d3: Film can be set to not rewind all the way and leave the film leader out (x 101).

•Rewinding film using the film rewind crank

Turn the power switch on, open the R1

button cover and press the R1 „ button.

Lift the film rewind crank and turn in the

direction of the arrow.

• Turn the film rewind crank a few times more after the tension is gone.

• Film is completely rewound when the frame counter shows a blinking E in the top LCD panel and viewfinder, and “REWIND COMPLETED” is displayed in the rear LCD panel. (E appears without blinking in the top LCD panel, and viewfinder indication and “REWIND COMPLETED” display in the rear LCD panel disappear when the exposure meter is off.) Open the camera back and remove the film cartridge.

Cautions on manual rewind

• Do not press the shutter release button until the film leader is rewound completely back into the cartridge. Doing so could damage the shutter curtain.

Detailed Operation

Film rewind R1 button

• If you accidentally press the R1 button during shooting, press the shutter release button. This returns the R1 button to its original position. (The shutter will not open and film is advanced one frame without advancing the frame counter.)

Frame counter

• The frame counter counts backward when film is rewound manually but the display may not indicate the correct frame number.

Autofocus

•Selecting AF Servo

Choose from two AF Servo modes—Single Servo AF (Focus-Priority) or Continuous Servo AF (Release-Priority).

Set focus mode selector to S (Single Servo AF with Focus-Priority) or C (Continuous Servo AF with Release-Priority).

• Your selected focus mode, “AF-S” for Single Servo AF or “AF-C” for Continuous Servo AF, is displayed in the rear LCD panel (in normal and detailed displays).

S: Single Servo AF with Focus-Priority (AF-S)

The shutter can only be released when the in-focus indicator / appears in the viewfinder (Focus-Priority). Once focused on a subject, keeping the shutter release button lightly pressed locks the focus (Focus Lock). When tracking a moving subject, the camera remains focused on the subject as long as the shutter release button is kept lightly pressed (Focus Tracking,

x 31) and the focus locks when the subject stops

moving.

C: Continuous Servo AF with Release-Priority

(AF-C)

Since the priority is on shutter release, you can release

Normal display

the shutter regardless of the focus status (ReleasePriority). Focus is not locked when / appears in the viewfinder and the camera continues to focus on a subject until shutter release. With a moving subject, the camera continuously focuses on a subject as long as you keep the shutter release button lightly pressed (Focus Tracking, x 31).

Manual focus

Focus can be performed manually when the focus mode selector is set to M (x 61).

AF start button

Pressing the AF start button automatically activates autofocus in autofocus operation (as does lightly pressing the shutter release button).

Autofocus operation on lens

Autofocus operation can be activated by pressing the AF-ON button on the AF-S VR 200mm f/2G IF-ED or AF-S VR 200-400mm f/4G IF-ED lens . For details, see the instruction manual of the lens.

CSM a4: Autofocus detection can be set to start by pressing the AF start button (rather than lightly pressing the shutter release button) (x 95).

• In this case, you can lock the focus (x 58) by releasing your finger from the AF

start button after focus is achieved.

CSM c3: AF start and AE/AF-L buttons can be set to operate in the following ways (x 100):

• AF start button operates as AE/AF-L button and AE/AF-L button operates as AF start button.

• AE/AF-L button operates as AF start button (function of AF start button remains unchanged).

• AF start button operates as AE/AF-L button (function of AE/AF-L button remains unchanged).

Detailed Operation

Autofocus—continued

•Selecting focus area

The F6’s 11 focus areas cover a broad range, and you can select among them depending on the subject’s position in the frame or your desired composition. They provide a sharp, reliable focus without requiring that you use focus lock (x 58).

Set the AF Area mode selector to a position

other than j.

• When j is selected, multi-selector is locked

and focus area cannot be selected.

Rotate the multi-selector lock release to

release the lock and press the multi-selector to select a focus area.

• Select a single focus area in Single Area AF or Dynamic AF modes, or a group of focus areas in Group Dynamic AF Mode.

• To change the focus area(s), lightly press the shutter release button and press the multiselector up/down/right/left in the appropriate direction. (To select the center focus area[s], press the center of the multi-selector.)

• Selected focus area(s) appear(s) momentarily in red in the viewfinder.

• Selected focus area(s) is/are also indicated in the rear LCD panel (in normal and detailed display).

Display in single area AF mode

Focus area display in the rear LCD panel (in normal and detailed displays)

g: Single Area AF Mode

Selected focus area is highlighted.

h: Dynamic AF Mode

Selected focus area is highlighted.

f: Group Dynamic AF Mode

Selected focus area group is highlighted as illustration on page 53.

j: Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority

All focus areas are highlighted with “ automatically, x 53).

The selected focus area can be locked by rotating the focus area selector lock release to lock position.

The focus area can also be changed with the optional focusing screen (x 168).

CSM a5: In manual focus or continuous shooting, you can cancel the

highlighting of the selected focus area. Also, you can change the duration of the red focus area display to 0.2 sec. or 1 sec. (x 95).

CSM a6: The focus area position can be set to change continuously on the same horizontal or vertical plane. This enables the focus area to be switched to the opposite position without pressing the opposite direction on the multiselector (x 96).

CSM f1: Selected focus area can be set to be highlighted when you press the center of the multi-selector. Also, any operation activated by pressing the center of the multi-selector can be canceled (x 107).

”(focus area is selected

Detailed Operation

Autofocus—continued

•Selecting AF Area mode

In autofocus operation, any of four AF Area modes can be selected, depending on shooting conditions, to utilize the F6’s 11 focus areas.

Rotate AF Area mode selector to select AF Area mode.

g:Single Area AF Mode

Focus is obtained at only one selected focus area out of 11. Useful for obtaining precise focus of a stationary subject in a particular area.

• Selected focus area is highlighted in the rear LCD panel (in normal and detailed displays).

h:Dynamic AF Mode

In Dynamic AF, you designate the primary sensor (the first to detect the subject). Then, if the detected subject moves, Dynamic AF automatically shifts to the next sensor that detects the subject, and the next, shifting among the progression of sensors as the subject moves. Dynamic AF thereby follows and maintains accurate focus even on subjects that move irregularly. (Viewfinder indication does not change as sensoring shifts in Dynamic AF mode.)

• Selected focus area is highlighted in the rear LCD panel (in normal and detailed displays).

f:Group Dynamic AF Mode

Enables you to select a group of neighboring focus areas in the center, top, bottom, left or right areas of the frame. Group Dynamic AF Mode automatically maintains focus on a subject located in the center (indicated as “•” in the illustrations on next page) of the focus areas selected. This mode is useful when you can predict the movement of the subject.

• Selected focus areas are highlighted in the rear LCD panel (in normal and detailed displays).

• The combination of focus areas in Group Dynamic AF Mode can be changed as

follows in Custom Setting “a3: Group dynamic AF” (x 94):

• Focus area pattern can be changed among six focus area groups—center 1, center 2, top, bottom, left and right (Pattern 2 Closest, Pattern 2 Center).

• In Pattern 1 Closest and Pattern 2 Closest, Dynamic AF with Closest-Subject Priority can be performed with focus areas within a group.

• Pattern 1 Center (default)

Center 1 Top Bottom Left Right

• Pattern 1 Closest

Center 1 Top Bottom Left Right

• Pattern 2 Center

Center 1 Center 2 Top Bottom Left Right

• Pattern 2 Closest

Center 1 Center 2 Top Bottom Left Right

• Press the center of the multi-selector to switch between Center 1 and Center

2. However, if “Center AF area” is not selected in Custom Setting “f1: Center button” (x 107), Center 1 and Center 2 cannot be switched.

j:Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority

Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority automatically selects the focus area nearest to the closest subject. Focus is constantly maintained within one of the 11 focus areas so pictures are always in focus.

• In Single Servo AF with Focus-Priority, the area of the subject in focus is

highlighted momentarily in the viewfinder. If “Focus priority” is selected in Custom Setting “a1: AF-C priority” (x 94), the area of the subject in focus is also highlighted even in Release-Priority,

• All focus areas are highlighted with “.” in the rear LCD panel (in normal and

detailed displays).

• Focus may not be achieved on the closest subject when a telephoto lens is

used or when the subject is too dark. In these situations, use Single Area AF Mode.

Detailed Operation

Autofocus—continued

•Combinations of AF functions (Single Servo AF: AF-S)

AF Servo

AF-S

*1 The indications in the rear LCD panel (in normal or detailed display) are examples

of when center focus area or focus area group is selected. (Focus area cannot be selected in Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority.) Pattern of focus areas in Group Dynamic AF is Pattern 1 Center.

*2 When “Pattern 1 Closest” or “Pattern 2 Closest” is selected in Custom Setting

“a3: Group dynamic AF” (x 94), Dynamic AF with Closest-Subject Priority can be performed with focus areas within a group.

AF Area Mode

Single Area AF

Dynamic AF

Group Dynamic

Dynamic AF

Mode with

Closest-Subject

Priority

Rear LCD

panel*

Focus area

indication

Selected focus

area group

Focus area where focus is achieved

Focus area

selection

Manual

area

Manual

area

Manual

(center of

selected

group*2)

Automatic

Focusing operation

Focus is obtained only at the selected focus area and focus is locked (as long as the shutter release button is lightly pressed) once focus is achieved.

Focus is obtained at the selected focus area and focus is locked (as long as the shutter release button is lightly pressed) once it is achieved. If the subject moves from the selected focus area before the focus locks, camera automatically focuses on the subject based on data from the other focus areas.

Focus is obtained at the center focus area within the selected group*2. Focus is locked once it is achieved. However, if the subject moves from the selected focus area before focus lock, camera automatically focuses on the subject based on data from the other focus areas within the selected group.

Automatically selects the focus area nearest to the closest subject and focus locks once it is achieved. If the subject moves from the selected focus area before the focus locks, the F6 automatically focuses on the subject based on data from the other focus areas.

CSM a2: Shutter can be set to be released regardless of the focus status (Release-Priority) in Single Servo AF (x 94).

Suitable shooting situation

General shooting such as a stationary subject.

General shooting including a moving subject where you want to expand the range of a regular snapshot.

Snapshot where the camera’s autofocus operation determines the focusing, allowing you to concentrate on the composition.

Snapshot where the camera’s autofocus operation determines the focusing.

Detailed Operation

Autofocus—continued

•Combinations of AF functions (Continuous Servo AF: AF-C)

AF Servo

AF-C

*1 The indications in the rear LCD panel (in normal or detailed display) are examples

*2 When “Pattern 1 Closest” or “Pattern 2 Closest” is selected in Custom Setting

“a3: Group dynamic AF” (x 94), camera automatically selects the focus area nearest to the closest subject within the selected group.

AF Area Mode

Single Area AF

Dynamic AF

Group Dynamic

Dynamic AF

Mode with

Closest-Subject

Priority

Rear LCD

panel*

Focus area

indication

Selected focus

area

Selected focus

area

Selected focus

area group

Not indicated

Focus area

selection

Manual

(center of

selected

group*2)

Automatic

Focusing operation

Suitable shooting situation

Focus is obtained only at the selected focus area. Focus is not locked and focusing continues until the shutter is released.

Focus is obtained at the selected focus area. Focus is not locked even once achieved. If the subject moves from the selected focus area, the camera automatically focuses on the subject based on data from the other focus areas.

Focus is obtained at the center focus area within the selected group*2. Focus is not locked even once achieved. If the subject moves from the selected focus area, the camera automatically focuses on the subject based on data from the other focus areas within the selected group.

Automatically selects the focus area nearest to the closest subject. Focus is not locked even once achieved. If the subject moves from the selected focus area before the focus locks, camera automatically focuses on the subject based on data from the other focus areas.

CSM a1: In Continuous Servo AF, priority can be set to put more on focus. Also, shutter can be set to be released only when focus is achieved (FocusPriority) (x 94).

Subject moving straight toward or away from the camera—such as a racing car or track athlete—which can be followed by a single focus area.

Irregularly moving subject that is difficult to follow in one focus area.

Snapshot of a moving subject where the camera’s autofocus operation determines the focusing, allowing you to concentrate on the composition.

Snapshot of a moving subject where the camera’s autofocus operation determines the focusing.

Detailed Operation

Autofocus—continued

•Focus lock

Focus lock is useful in autofocus shooting when you want to capture a subject outside of the F6’s 11 focus areas, and in situations where autofocus may not work as expected (x 60). Focus locks performs differently in Single Servo AF and Continuous Servo AF.

Position the focus area on the subject and

lightly press the shutter release button.

• / appears when the subject is in focus.

Confirm focus indicator / and lock focus.

• In Single Servo AF:

• Focus remains locked as long as you keep the shutter release button lightly pressed.

• Focus can also be locked by pressing the AE/AF-L button.

• In Continuous Servo AF:

• Focus is locked as long as the AE/AF-L button is kept pressed, even if you remove your finger from the shutter release button. In Auto Exposure mode, exposure is also locked (x 72).

Recompose while focus is locked and shoot.

• After you have locked the focus, do not change the camera-to-subject distance.

• If you keep the shutter release button lightly pressed after releasing the shutter in Single Servo AF, the shutter can be released repeatedly with the same focusing. Similarly, if you keep the AE/AF-L button pressed after releasing the shutter, the shutter can be released repeatedly with the same focusing.

• If the subject moves after the focus is locked (if the camera-to-subject distance has changed), remove your finger from the shutter release button or AE/AF-L button to release the lock, then refocus and lock the focus again.

CSM c2: The AE/AF-L button can be set to lock only the focus (x 99).

CSM c3: AF start and AE/AF-L buttons can be set to operate as follows

(x 100):

• AF start button operates as AE/AF-L button and AE/AF-L button operates as AF start button.

• AE/AF-L button operates as AF start button (function of AF start button remains unchanged).

• AF start button operates as AE/AF-L button (function of AE/AF-L button remains unchanged).

Detailed Operation

Situations Where Autofocus May Not Work As Expected

Autofocus does not perform well under the conditions listed below. If you cannot achieve your desired focus using autofocus, use manual focus (x 61) or use focus lock (x 58) to focus on another subject at the same distance, then recompose the picture.

There is little or no contrast between the subject and the background.

Example: Subject is the same color as the background.

The focus area contains objects at different distances from the camera.

Example: Subject is inside a cage.

The subject is dominated by regular geometric patterns.

Example: A row of windows in a skyscraper.

The focus zone contains areas of extreme contrast.

Example: Subject is half in the shade.

The subject appears smaller than the focus area.

Example: Focus area contains both a foreground subject and distant buildings.

The subject contains many detailed elements.

Example: A field of flowers or other subjects that are small or lack variation in brightness.

AF-Assist Illuminators

If the subject is dark, a Speedlight with AF-Assist Illuminator can be used to assist the autofocus (x 153, 161).

Manual Focus

Focus can be set manually when the focus mode selector is set to M.

Set the focus mode selector to M. Look through the viewfinder and rotate the lens focusing ring until a sharp image appears on the clear matte field in the viewfinder.

• The shutter can be released whether or not /

appears in the viewfinder. Use Manual focus in situations where autofocus may not work as expected (x 60) or a lens other than an AF Nikkor (x 38) is attached.

• Optional focusing screens type J, A or L (x 168)

can assist you in obtaining a quick focus.

Manual focus using Electronic Rangefinder

Set the focus mode selector to M. The focus can be confirmed with / indication in the viewfinder. The Electronic Rangefinder works with most Nikkor lenses (including AF Nikkors when operated manually) having a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster.

• Lightly press the shutter release button and while the meter remains on, rotate the lens focusing ring until / appears in the viewfinder. The shutter can be released anytime.

• Electronic Rangefinder can be activated with any of 11 focus brackets selected as the focus area (x

50).

• If < appears in the viewfinder, the focus region is in front of the subject. If > appears in the viewfinder, focus region is behind the subject. In either case, rotate the lens focusing ring until / appears.

Detailed Operation

CSM a8: If the attached AF-S/AF-I lens supports autofocus with manual

priority (M/A), you can choose to allow autofocus operation in Manual focus (x 96).

Exposure Metering System

•Selecting exposure metering system

Taking the infinite variety of possible lighting, the F6 is provided with three types of light meters. This selection will enable you to handle most lighting conditions.

Rotate the metering system selector while pressing the metering system lock release to select your desired metering system.

• Selected metering system is indicated in the viewfinder.

• Certain metering systems cannot be used with some lenses (x 38).

• Metering systems and characteristics of each are as follows:

”: 3D Color Matrix Metering

• This meter reads the entire image area and with 1,005-pixel RGB sensor, it determines the exposure through advanced calculations that consider scene brightness, contrast, subject distance and scene color.

• 3D Color Matrix Metering is available only with D- or G-type CPU lenses. With CPU lenses other than D- or G-type, or non-CPU lenses with focal lengths and maximum apertures set in the “Non-CPU lens data” display in the Shooting Menu (x 144), Color Matrix Metering is activated without distance information from the lens.

• Matrix Metering is available only with CPU lenses or non-CPU lenses that has specified focal lengths and maximum apertures in the “Non-CPU lens data” display. With other lenses, metering system automatically switches to Center-Weighted.

• Center-Weighted or Spot Metering is recommended in Auto Exposure Lock (x 72) or exposure compensation (x 74).

• Set the metering system to Center-Weighted or Spot when using type U focusing screen (optional, x 168)..

“: Center-Weighted Metering

• Center-Weighted Metering places special emphasis on brightness within the 12mm-diameter circle in the viewfinder, so it is useful for basing exposure on a specific area of the scene.

CSM b4: The area of the Center-Weighted meter’s sensitivity can be changed to 8mm-dia., 12mm-dia., 15mm-dia., 20mm-dia. circle or average of the entire viewfinder (x 98).

ˇ: Spot Metering

• Nearly 100% of the meter’s sensitivity is concentrated on the 4mm-dia. area (approx. 1.5% of entire frame) within the selected focus area of the viewfinder. Use Spot Metering to base the exposure on a very small area within the frame, such as with backlit subjects or high-contrast scenes.

• When Spot Metering is selected, shifting the focus area also shifts Spot Metering to

the appropriate position. In Group Dynamic AF Mode (x 52), center focus area within the group is activated. However, Spot Metering area stays at the center (does not shift) as long as Dynamic AF Mode with Closest Subject Priority (x 53) is activated, when a non-CPU lens (x 39) is used or “Other screen” is selected in Custom setting “b6: Screen comp.” (x 98) (meter’s sensitivity area becomes 6mmdia. [approx. 3.3% of entire frame]).

Filters that require filter factor

Effect of Matrix Metering may not be fully attained when a filter that requires filter factor (x 169) is attached. In this case, Center-Weighted Metering is recommended.

Detailed Operation

CSM f3: Function of the FUNC button can be set to “Matrix metering”,

“Center-weighted” or “Spot metering”. When the FUNC button is pressed, metering system can be temporarily switched to one designated (x 108).

Shooting in Each Exposure Mode

•¡: Programmed Auto

The camera automatically controls exposure based on an exposure combination in the program chart that provides a correct exposure for any shooting situation. For more complex shooting, use Flexible Program, exposure compensation (x 74) or exposure bracketing (x

75).

• Programmed Auto can only be selected when using a CPU lens.

Rotate the Main-Command Dial while

pressing the exposure mode MODE button to select ¡.

Compose picture, focus and shoot.

Flexible Program

In Programmed Auto, by rotating the Main-Command Dial you can change the combination of shutter speed and aperture while maintaining correct exposure. With this function, shooting in Programmed Auto is virtually the same as shooting in Shutter-Priority Auto or Aperture-Priority Auto. *appears in the top LCD panel when the Flexible Program is used. To cancel the Flexible Program, rotate the Main-Command Dial until

disappears, change the exposure mode, turn the

power switch off, change the setting in Custom Setting “b1: EV step” (x 97), or perform Two-Button Reset (x 147).

-4

-3

-2

-1

345

678

F1.4

F2 F2.8 F4 F5.6 F8 F11 F16 F22 F32

30" 15"8"4" 2" 1" 2 4 8 15 30 60

125 250 500

1000 2000 40008000

[

]

When a CPU Nikkor lens other than G-type is not set to its minimum aperture setting, ƒEE blinks in the top LCD panel and viewfinder and the shutter locks.

When a non-CPU lens is attached, the exposure mode automatically switches to Aperture-Priority Auto, ¡ blinks in the top LCD panel and £ appears in the viewfinder. When the maximum aperture is specified in “Non-CPU lens data” (x

144), aperture value is displayed in the top LCD panel, rear LCD panel (in detailed or large display) and viewfinder. In this case, aperture can be set to intermediate values with the aperture ring but the display only shows changes in one EV steps. When the maximum aperture is not specified, the aperture display shows the EV step difference from the maximum aperture (i.e., ∂2: two steps from the maximum aperture); set/confirm aperture with the lens aperture ring.

When the subject is too dark or bright, one of the following warning indications will appear in the top and rear LCD panels (detailed and large displays) or viewfinder:

• H1: Use ND filter.

• Lo: Use Speedlight.

Program chart

The program chart shows exposure control in Programmed Auto exposure mode.

—— With ISO 100 film, a lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.4 and a minimum

aperture of f/16 (e.g. AF 50mm f/1.4D):

EV range: EV 0-20

Aperture

Detailed Operation

• There are limitations for minimum and maximum EV depending on the film speed.

• In Matrix Metering, any EV above 161/3 is maintained at EV 161/3 when using ISO 100 film.

CSM b1: Shutter speed/aperture value displayed in the top LCD panel, rear LCD panel (in detailed or large display) and viewfinder can be set to change in steps of 1/2 or one EV (x 97).

Shutter speed

Shooting in Each Exposure Mode—continued

•™: Shutter-Priority Auto

Enables you to manually set your desired shutter speed (30-1/8000 sec., X); the camera automatically selects the proper aperture to provide correct exposure. With high shutter speeds, you can freeze the motion of a fast-moving subject; with slower speeds, you can create a blurry, motion effect.

• Shutter-Priority Auto can only be selected with a CPU lens.

While pressing the exposure mode MODE

button, rotate the Main-Command Dial to select ™.

Set the shutter speed (30-1/8000 sec., X) by

rotating the Main-Command Dial.

Compose picture, focus and shoot.

Changing from Manual to Shutter-Priority Auto

If you select a shutter speed of buLb in Manual exposure mode and then select Shutter-Priority Auto without changing the shutter speed, the buLb indicator in the shutter speed display will blink and the shutter cannot be released. Rotate the main command dial to select a different shutter speed before shooting.

Locking shutter speed

To lock the shutter speed set in step 2, rotate the Main-Command Dial while pressing the shutter speed/aperture lock button so shutter speed lock indication ¬ appears in the top LCD panel and viewfinder. The shutter speed display is reversed in the rear LCD panel (in detailed and large displays). To release the lock, rotate the Main-Command Dial while pressing the shutter speed/aperture lock button so shutter speed lock indication ¬ disappears in the LCD panel and viewfinder.

When a CPU Nikkor lens other than G-type is not set to its minimum aperture setting, ƒEE blinks in the top LCD panel and viewfinder and the shutter locks.

When a non-CPU lens is attached, exposure mode automatically switches to Aperture-Priority Auto. ™ blinks in the top LCD panel and £ appears in the viewfinder. When the maximum aperture is specified in “Non-CPU lens data” (x

144), the aperture value is displayed in the top LCD panel, rear LCD panel (in detailed or large display) and viewfinder. In this case, aperture can be set to an intermediate value with the aperture ring but the display only shows changes in one EV steps. When the maximum aperture is not specified, aperture display shows the EV step difference from the maximum aperture (i.e., ∂2: two steps from maximum aperture); set/confirm aperture with the lens aperture ring.

When the subject is too dark or too bright, one of the following warning indications will appear in the top and rear LCD panels (detailed and large displays) or viewfinder (electronic analog exposure display will also indicate the amount of under- or overexposure):

• H1: Select higher shutter speed. If the warning indication does not disappear,

use an ND filter.

• Lo: Select a slower shutter speed. If the warning indication does not disappear,

use a Speedlight.

Detailed display

Detailed Operation

CSM b1: Shutter speed/aperture value displayed in the top LCD panel, rear

LCD panel (in detailed or large display) and viewfinder can be set to change in steps of 1/2 or one EV (x 97).

CSM f4: Shutter speed can be set to be adjusted using the Sub-Command Dial (x 109).

Shooting in Each Exposure Mode—continued

•£: Aperture-Priority Auto

Enables you to set the desired aperture (lens’ minimum to maximum) manually. The camera automatically selects a shutter speed suitable for correct exposure. By varying the aperture, and thus controlling the depth of field, you can sharpen the background and foreground, or blur the background. In flash photography, varying the aperture changes the flash shooting distance (x 163).

While pressing the exposure mode MODE

button, rotate the Main-Command Dial to select £.

Set the aperture by rotating the Sub-

Command Dial.

Compose picture, focus and shoot.

Locking aperture

To lock aperture set in step 2, rotate the SubCommand Dial while pressing the shutter speed/aperture lock button so aperture lock indication ¬ appears in the top LCD panel and viewfinder. The aperture display is reversed in the rear LCD panel (in detailed and large displays). To release the lock, rotate the Sub-Command Dial while pressing the shutter speed/aperture lock button so aperture lock indication ¬ disappears in the LCD panel and viewfinder. Aperture lock is also released when the lens is detached.

When a CPU Nikkor lens other than G-type is not set to its minimum aperture setting, ƒEE blinks in the top LCD panel and viewfinder and the shutter locks.

When the maximum aperture is specified in “Non-CPU lens data” (x 144), aperture value is displayed in the top LCD panel, rear LCD panel (in detailed or large display) and viewfinder. In this case, aperture can be set to an intermediate value with the aperture ring but the display only shows changes in one EV steps. When the maximum aperture is not specified, aperture display shows the EV step difference from the maximum aperture (i.e., ∂2: two steps from maximum aperture); set/confirm aperture with the lens aperture ring.

When the subject is too dark or too bright, one of the following warnings will appear in the top and rear LCD panels (detailed and large displays) or viewfinder (electronic analog exposure display will also indicate the amount of under- or overexposure):

• H1: Select smaller aperture (larger f-number). If the warning indication does not

disappear, use an ND filter.

• Lo: Select larger aperture (smaller f-number). If the warning indication does not

disappear, use a Speedlight.

Detailed display

Detailed Operation

CSM b1: Shutter speed/aperture value displayed in the top LCD panel, rear

LCD panel (in detailed or large display) and viewfinder can be set to change in steps of 1/2 or one EV (x 97).

CSM f4: When a lens other than G-type is attached, aperture can be set to be adjusted using only the lens aperture ring (x 110). Also, aperture can be set to be adjusted using the Main-Command Dial (x 109).

Shooting in Each Exposure Mode—continued

•¢: Manual

Enables you to set both shutter speed (Bulb and 30-1/8,000 sec., X) and aperture (lens’ minimum to maximum) manually. With electronic analog exposure display in the top LCD panel or viewfinder, you can produce various creative effects by adjusting the exposure. Long Time Exposure (Bulb) can be set in Manual exposure mode.

While pressing the exposure mode MODE

button, rotate the Main-Command Dial to select ¢, then compose picture.

Set the shutter speed and aperture and

confirm with the electronic analog exposure display in the viewfinder.

• Set the shutter speed by rotating the MainCommand Dial and the aperture by rotating the Sub-Command Dial. These functions can be set independently.

• Long Time Exposure (Bulb) can be selected by setting the shutter speed to buLb (x 80).

Compose picture, focus and shoot.

Locking shutter speed/aperture

Selected shutter speed and/or aperture can be locked. To lock shutter speed, see “Locking shutter speed” x 67. To lock aperture, see “Locking aperture” x 69.

Electronic analog exposure display

The following examples show electronic analog exposure display indications. The electronic analog exposure display blinks when subject brightness is beyond the camera’s exposure range.

In 1/3 EV steps In 1/2 EV steps In one EV steps

Correct exposure Correct exposure Correct exposure

–2/3 EV –1/2 EV Under –3 EV

Over +3 EV +1/2 EV +1 EV

Lens aperture ring

When a CPU Nikkor lens other than G-type is not set to its minimum aperture setting, ƒEE blinks in the top LCD panel and viewfinder and the shutter locks.

Non-CPU lens

When a non-CPU lens is attached and the maximum aperture is specified in “NonCPU lens data” (x 144), aperture value is displayed in the top LCD panel, rear LCD panel (in detailed or large display) and viewfinder. In this case, aperture can be set to an intermediate value with the aperture ring but the display only shows changes in one EV steps. When the maximum aperture is not specified, aperture display shows the step difference from the maximum aperture (i.e., ∂2: two steps from maximum aperture); set/confirm aperture with the lens aperture ring.

Exposure factor with AF Micro-Nikkor lens

When an AF Micro-Nikkor lens is attached and you’re setting aperture using SubCommand Dial aided by an external exposure meter, you do not need to take the exposure factor into consideration. Exposure compensation is required only when setting aperture using the lens aperture ring.

CSM b1: Shutter speed/aperture value displayed in the top LCD panel, rear LCD panel (in detailed or large display) and viewfinder can be set to change in steps of 1/2 or one EV (x 97).

CSM b5: In Manual exposure mode, the slowest shutter speed can be prolonged from 30 sec. to 30 min. (x 98).

CSM f4: When a lens other than G-type is attached, aperture can be set to be adjusted using only the lens aperture ring (x 110). Also, shutter speed can be set to be adjusted using the Sub-Command Dial and aperture with the MainCommand Dial (x 109).

Detailed Operation

Auto Exposure Lock

To control the exposure of a specific area within a scene, measure the exposure for the area with Spot or Center-Weighted Metering, then press the AE/AF-L button to lock the exposure, and recompose the picture. Set exposure to a mode other than Manual.

While pressing the metering system selector

lock release, rotate the metering system selector to select Center-Weighted or Spot Metering.

• Matrix Metering is not recommended since the exposure cannot be properly locked.

Position focus area (in Spot metering) or

center of the frame (in Center-Weighted metering) on subject and lightly press the shutter release button, then press the AE/AF-L button. Confirm focus indicator / appears in the viewfinder.

• When the AE/AF-L button is pressed, AE-L appears in the viewfinder.

While pressing the AE/AF-L button,

recompose, focus and shoot.

• While the exposure is locked, the metering system only changes when the AE/AF-L button is released (not when the metering system selector is adjusted).

Locked exposure area in each metering system

Spot Metering

• In Single Area AF mode (x 52), Dynamic AF mode (x 52) or Manual focus (x

61) with CPU lens: Exposure at the selected focus area

• In Group Dynamic AF mode (x 52) with CPU lens:

Exposure at the center focus area of the selected focus group

• In Dynamic AF mode with Closest-Subject Priority (x 53), with non-CPU lens is used (x 39) or when “Other screen” is selected in Custom setting “b6: Screen comp.” (x 98):

Exposure at the center focus area

Center-Weighted Metering

Exposure at 12mm-diameter circle at center

Available functions in Auto Exposure Lock with each exposure mode

• ¡ (Programmed Auto): Flexible Program (x 64)

• ™ (Shutter-Priority Auto): Shutter speed adjustment

• £ (Aperture-Priority Auto): Aperture adjustment

In any of these three situations, controlled shutter speed and/or aperture will be displayed.

Auto Exposure Lock in autofocus operation

• Focus Lock (x 58) is simultaneously activated. Confirm / in the viewfinder.

CSM c1: Auto Exposure Lock can be set to be activated by lightly pressing the shutter release button (x 99).

CSM c2: Operation when the AE/AF-L button is pressed can be changed as follows (x 99).

• Only exposure is locked.

• Exposure remains locked until shutter is released, exposure meter turns off or AE/AF-L button is pressed again.

• Exposure remains locked until exposure meter is off or AE/AF-L button is pressed again (pressing shutter release button does not release the lock).

• Only focus is locked.

Detailed Operation

Exposure Compensation

To adjust exposure control, use the exposure compensation function. This can be useful when the subject has pronounced contrast or when bracketing exposure with color slide film (where the latitude for a proper exposure is minimal). Use Center-Weighted or Spot Metering. Exposure compensation can be performed in any exposure mode.

Set exposure compensation by rotating the

Main-Command Dial while pressing the = button until the desired compensation value appears (–5 EV to +5 EV in 1/3 EV steps).

• When the = button is pressed, the electronic

analog exposure display indicates the exposure compensation value (and “0” of the indicator blinks).

• When the exposure compensation is set, =

appears in the top LCD panel and viewfinder. The compensation value is displayed in the top and rear LCD panels (in detailed or large display).

–1.0 EV compensation

(detailed display)

• While the = button is pressed, { (if the compensation is to the + side) or } (if the compensation is to the – side) is displayed in the viewfinder.

• To cancel exposure compensation, rotate the Main-Command Dial while pressing the = button to reset the compensation value to 0.0. This can also be done by performing Two-Button Reset (x

147). (Turning the power switch off does not cancel the exposure compensation function.)

Compose picture, focus and shoot.

When exposure compensation is set while Speedlight is used, flash output level is also compensated.

Normally, you should compensate exposure to the + side when the background is brighter than your main subject, or to the – side when the background is darker.

CSM b2: Compensation value can be set to be changed in 1/2 or one EV steps (x 97).

CSM b3: Exposure compensation can be set to be performed using the Mainor Sub-Command Dial without pressing the exposure compensation button (x 97).

Auto Exposure Bracketing

Auto Exposure Bracketing allows you to shoot at selected compensated EV values (maximum of ±3 EV) shifting from the automatically set proper exposure (or selected exposure in Manual exposure mode) for a selected number of shots (maximum of 7) each time the shutter is released. Auto Exposure Bracketing can be performed in any exposure mode.

While pressing the Auto Exposure Bracketing

BKT button, rotate the Main-Command Dial to set the number of shots and SubCommand Dial to set compensated EV value.

• While the BKT button is pressed, check the number of shots and compensated EV values in the rear LCD panel.

• When the selected number of shots is a value other than “0”, z appears in the top LCD panel and viewfinder. Electronic analog exposure display indicates the Bracketing status. (In Manual exposure mode, the Bracketing status is displayed only in the top LCD panel.) The compensated EV value and Bracketing indicator are displayed in the rear LCD panel.

• See pages 76-77 for the combinations of the number of shots and compensated EV value.

Compose picture, focus and shoot.

• Compensated shutter speed and aperture values are displayed during shooting.

Shutter speed and aperture in Programmed Auto, aperture in ShutterPriority Auto and shutter speed in Aperture-Priority Auto and Manual exposure mode are shifted.

In any of the exposure modes, Flash Exposure Bracketing (in which the TTL Auto Flash level of the lighted main subject is shifted) and Auto Exposure Bracketing (in which the exposure of a background lighted by ambient light is shifted) are performed simultaneously when a Speedlight is used.

CSM e5: Bracketing can be set to perform only Auto Exposure Bracketing or

Flash Exposure Bracketing where both are normally performed simultaneously (x 105).

CSM e6: In Manual exposure mode, shutter speed, aperture and flash output level, or aperture and flash output level, or only flash output level can be set to be shifted where normally shutter speed and flash output level are shifted (x 106).

CSM e8: Auto Exposure Bracketing can be set to be turned on/off with the Main-Command Dial, and the Sub-Command Dial can be used to select the number of shots and compensated EV value (x 106).

Detailed Operation

Auto Exposure Bracketing—continued

• Combination of number of shots and compensated EV value

Compensated Number Bracketing indicator Bracketing order Indication in

EV value of shots (top LCD panel) (default setting) “Preset select”*

1/3 step 7, – and 0, –1.0, –0.7, –0.3,

1/2 step 7, – and 0, –1.5, –1.0, –0.5,

2/3 step 7, – and 0, –2.0, –1.3, –0.7,

1 step 7, – and 0, –3.0, –2.0, –1.0,

1/3 step 5, – and 0, –0.7, –0.3,

1/2 step 5, – and 0, –1.0, –0.5,

2/3 step 5, – and 0, –1.3, –0.7,

1 step 5, – and 0, –2.0, –1.0,

1/3 step 3, – and 0, –0.3, +0.3

1/2 step 3, – and 0, –0.5, +0.5

2/3 step 3, – and 0, –0.7, +0.7

1 step 3, – and 0, –1.0, +1.0

1/3 step 2, 0, –0.3

1/2 step 2, 0, –0.5

2/3 step 2, 0, –0.7

1 step 2, 0, –1.0

+ sides +0.3, +0.7, +1.0

+ sides +0.5, +1.0, +1.5

+ sides +0.7, +1.3, +2.0

+ sides +1.0, +2.0, +3.0

+ sides +0.3, +0.7

+ sides +0.5, +1.0

+ sides +0.7, +1.3

+ sides +1.0, +2.0

+ sides

– side

—

Compensated Number Bracketing indicator Bracketing order Indication in

EV value of shots (top LCD panel) (default setting) “Preset select”*

1/3 step 2, + side 0, +0.3

1/2 step 2, + side 0, +0.5

2/3 step 2, + side 0, +0.7

1 step 2, + side 0, +1.0

1/3 step 3, – side –0.3, –0.7, 0

1/2 step 3, – side –1.0, –0.5, 0

2/3 step 3, – side –1.3, –0.7, 0

1 step 3, – side –2.0, –1.0, 0

1/3 step 3, + side +0.3, 0, +0.7

1/2 step 3, + side +0.5, 0, +1.0

2/3 step 3, + side +0.7, 0, +1.3

1 step 3, + side +1.0, 0, +2.0

* When the “Preset select” is set in “e8: Auto BKT selection”, (x 106) the

indication appears when selecting the combinations of compensated EV value and the number of shots. In this setting, the combinations indicated with ¬ cannot be selected.

• When the number of shots other than two is selected, shot of middle EV value is taken first. The following shots are successively taken from negative to positive value.

• Compensated EV value can be set regardless of the setting in Custom Setting “b1: EV step” (x 97). Shutter speed and aperture indication may not correspond to actual values during Bracketing depending on the setting in “b1: EV step”.

CSM e7: Bracketing order can be set to change from negative EV value to positive EV value (x 106).

Detailed Operation

Auto Exposure Bracketing—continued

• Canceling Auto Exposure Bracketing

• To cancel Bracketing, while pressing the BKT button rotate the Main-Command Dial so the number of shots becomes “0” (the compensated EV value previously selected will remain). Or, rotate the Main-Command Dial and select “OFF” when the “Preset value select” is selected in “e8: Auto BKT selection” (the number of shots and compensated EV values previously selected will remain).

• Bracketing is also canceled when Two-Button Reset (x 147) is performed, selecting another Custom Bank (x 91), Custom Reset is performed (x 92) or setting is changed in Custom Setting “b1: EV step” or “b2: Exp. comp. EV” (x 97).

Auto Exposure Bracketing and other functions

• If the exposure compensation function (x 74) is also set, Bracketing will be combined with the exposure compensation values. It is useful to perform Bracketing with a compensated value of over +3 EV or under –3 EV.

• With film advance mode in CL (continuous low-speed), CH (continuous high- speed) or Cs (continuous silent-low-speed), fully depress and hold the shutter release button until the set number of shots has been taken and film advance stops automatically. If “Bracketing burst” is selected in the Custom Setting menu “f3 FUNC Button”, Auto Exposure Bracketing will be performed repeatedly even after the selected number of shots has been reached as long as the shutter release button is kept pressed while the FUNC. button is pressed (x 108).

• In S (single frame) film advance mode, if “Bracketing burst” is selected in the Custom Setting menu “f3 FUNC Button”, Bracketing is performed until the set number of shots has been taken as long as the shutter release button is kept depressed while the FUNC. button is pressed, and film advance stops automatically (x 108).

• If the Self-Timer (x 82) is also set, Bracketing is performed one frame at a time (until the selected number of shots has been reached).

If the end of the film roll is reached during Bracketing

The remaining shots can be taken after new film has been loaded. Also, if you turn the power switch off during Bracketing, the remaining shots can be taken after the power is turned back on.

Shutter speed is not shifted under the conditions noted below. If “Aperture”, “Speed/Aperture” or “Flash” is selected in Custom Setting menu “e6 M mode bkting”, Auto Exposure Bracketing (in which aperture or TTL Auto flash level is shifted) can be performed (x 106).

• “On” is selected in Custom Setting menu “b5 Extend Shtr. Spd” (x 98) and

shutter speed slower than 40 sec. is set.

• Shutter speed is set to X in Manual exposure mode.

• Shutter speed is set to Bulb when using a Speedlight.

Bracketing indicator during shooting

• As each shot is taken, the indicator for each compensated EV value disappears. See examples below.

Status of

Bracketing

Setting done

1st shot taken

2nd shot taken

3rd shot taken

Approx. 0.5 sec. after the 3rd shot

Bracketing indicator in exposure compensation

• Bracketing indication is shifted according to the exposure compensation value. However, if the maximum compensation value exceeds the indicator’s scale, # or % appears.

Compensation value

No compensation

1/3 EV steps, 3 shots, – and + 2/3 EV steps, 3 shots, –

Top LCD panel

+1.0

+2.7

–3.0

Rear LCD

panel panel

1/3 EV steps 2/3 EV steps

3 shots, – and + 3 shots, –

Top LCD panel

Rear LCD

Detailed Operation

–4.0

Long Time Exposure

This function is useful for shooting nighttime scenes such as stars, which require an extended exposure of more than 30 sec. The shutter remains open as long as the shutter release button is kept fully depressed. (Use of a tripod is recommended.)

While pressing the exposure mode button

MODE, rotate the Main-Command Dial to select ¢ (Manual exposure).

• Use the LCD illuminator (x 81) to view the

LCD panel in the dark.

Rotate the Main-Command Dial to select

buLb and rotate the Sub-Command Dial to set the aperture.

• If buLb is selected in Manual exposure mode

and the exposure mode is changed to ShutterPriority Auto, buLb blinks and the shutter locks.

• Continuous exposure of approx. 5 hours is possible with 3V lithium batteries. Note that when shooting at low temperatures, continuous exposure time is reduced.

Compose picture, focus and shoot.

• The shutter remains open as long as the shutter release button is kept fully depressed.

• Use of the optional remote cord MC-20 or MC-30 (x 171) reduces camera shake.

Power source

Use of a fresh set of batteries is recommended to avoid power shortage during long time exposure. Also, optional Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40 (x 166) enables prolonged long time exposure.

CSM b5: In Manual exposure mode, the slowest shutter speed can be changed from 30 sec. to 30 min. (x 98).

Diopter Adjustment/LCD Illuminator

• Diopter adjustment

The finder diopter enables near- or far-sighted photographers to adjust the eyepiece diopter to suit their vision.

Pull up the diopter adjustment knob and rotate while looking through the viewfinder until the focus brackets in the viewfinder appear sharp.

• The adjustable range of the finder diopter is –2m to +1m–1. Five optional eyepiece correction lenses DK-17C provide a viewfinder diopter range of

–1

to +2m–1(x 167).

–3m

Using the diopter adjustment knob

Since the diopter adjustment knob is located next to the viewfinder, take care to avoid injuring your eye while rotating the knob.

Attaching eyepiece correction lenses

Before attaching an eyepiece correction lens (optional;

x 167), remove the viewfinder eyepiece DK-17.

1. Close the eyepiece shutter and unlock 1.

2. Detach the supplied eyepiece from the camera body

by rotating it counterclockwise 2.

3. Attach the eyepiece correction lens by firmly screwing it in clockwise.

4. Open the eyepiece shutter and lock.

–1

Detailed Operation

• LCD illuminator

Displays in the top and rear LCD panels can be confirmed in the dark with the LCD illuminator.

Rotate the power switch to Œ. The exposure meter turns on and the LCD panel is illuminated in green.

• When the power switch is released, it returns to the “on” position, but illumination remains on as long as the exposure meter is on. Illumination turns off after shutter release.

Self-Timer Operation

The self-timer allows you to put yourself in the picture, or if you want to avoid touching the camera to avoid shake just before exposure. Use a tripod or place the camera on a stable surface before using the self-timer.

While pressing the film advance mode

selector lock release, set the film advance mode selector to V.

Compose picture, focus and fully depress

the shutter release button.

• Do not stand in front of the lens when setting the self-timer in autofocus mode.

• Once the self-timer is activated, the shutter will release in 10 seconds (default setting). The self-timer indicator LED will blink for 8 sec., then stop blinking 2 sec. before the shutter is released.

• Self-timer shooting cannot be performed when the camera’s shutter cannot be released (i.e. when subject cannot be brought into focus with autofocus in Single Servo AF).

• To cancel the self-timer, set the film advance mode selector to a position other than V.

• When buLb is selected in Manual exposure mode, shutter speed is controlled to approx. 1/10 sec.

Close the viewfinder eyepiece shutter

To ensure correct exposure in exposure modes other than manual, close the viewfinder eyepiece shutter after focusing. This will prevent light entering via the viewfinder from interfering with the autoexposure operation.

CSM c5: The time delay of the self-timer can also be set to 2, 5, or 20 sec. (x 100).

Depth-of-Field Preview/Film Plane Indicator

• Depth-of-field preview

Depress the depth-of-field preview button to confirm the depth of field through the viewfinder.

• Pressing the depth-of-field button stops the lens down to the aperture controlled in Programmed Auto or Shutter-Priority Auto exposure mode, and down to the aperture selected in Aperture-Priority Auto or Manual exposure mode. By looking through the viewfinder, the approximate depth of field (x

164) with the given aperture can be confirmed.

• Modeling flash is also fired with optional Speedlight SB-800 and SB-600 (x 151). To cancel modeling flash, turn the Speedlight off or select “Off” in the Custom Setting “e4: Modeling flash” (x 105).

• Exposure is locked (x 72) simultaneously before stopping the lens down with CPU lens. Correct exposure will be obtained by releasing the shutter with the depth-of-field button pressed.

• Film plane indicator

The film plane indicator shows the position of the film plane inside the camera body.

• The film plane indicator shows the standard line of the shooting distance and indicates the position of the film plane inside the camera body. Use this indicator when measuring actual camera-to-subject distance, e.g. in close-up photography.

• The exact distance from the lens mounting flange to the film plane is 46.5mm.

Detailed Operation

Mirror Up Photography

Mirror up photography is ideal for situations in which camera shake is likely. Press the shutter release button once to raise mirror, and press again to take the photograph.

While pressing the film advance mode

selector lock release, set the film advance mode selector to M-UP (mirror up).

Compose picture, focus and press the

shutter release button to raise the mirror.

• In AF operation, exposure and focus are locked just before the mirror is raised, and framing cannot be confirmed in the viewfinder while the mirror is raised.

Press the shutter release button again to release the shutter. The mirror

returns to original position.

• Canceling mirror up mode

• Set the film advance mode selector to a position other than M-UP after releasing the shutter. (Mirror up mode is canceled by the same operation while the mirror is up; however, shutter is released automatically and film advances by one frame.)

• In the following situations, the shutter is automatically released and film advances by one frame but mirror up mode is not canceled:

• Approx. 30 sec. after mirror is raised

• Camera power is turned off

Cautions in mirror up photography

• Do not leave the camera in M-UP mode under sunlight, especially when using a large-diameter lens. The shutter curtain could be burned.

• When the R1 button is pressed while mirror is up, the shutter is released, Err blinks in the top LCD panel and viewfinder, and ERR is displayed in the rear LCD panel. Depress the shutter release button to turn off these warnings (film advances by one frame but the frame counter remains unchanged).

Use of a Remote Cord MC-20 or MC-30 reduces camera shake even more in mirror up photography (x 171).

Changing Focusing Screens

In addition to the supplied B-type BriteView screen, other optional interchangeable focusing screens (type U, E, M, J, A and L, x 168) are available for the F6.

Turn the power switch off, remove the lens

from the camera body and pull the focusing screen release latch outward using the supplied tweezers.

• The holder will spring open when the focusing screen release latch is pulled outward.

Remove the screen by grasping the small

tab with the tweezers, and set the replacement screen in place.

• Make sure the screen is set properly.

Detailed Operation

Using the tweezers, push the front edge of

the holder upward until it clicks into place.

• Be sure not to touch the reflex mirror or the surfaces of the focusing screens.

• Always use F6 focusing screens (focusing screens for other cameras cannot be used).

Focusing screen compensation

No compensation is required with type B or E focusing screens or in Matrix metering. With screens other than type B or E, the EV level of the focusing screen may require compensation depending upon the focusing screen, lens, or teleconverter attached. To compensate EV level, set “Other screen” in Custom Setting “b6 Screen comp.” (x 98). (For the appropriate compensation value, see the instruction manual of the focusing screen.)

• For focusing screens other than B- or E-type, “Other screen” must be set even when the compensation value is “0”.

Self-Diagnostic Shutter System

The F6 is equipped with a self-diagnostic shutter that automatically controls the shutter speed for each release of the shutter.

The self-diagnostic shutter automatically detects inaccuracies in performance and readjusts the shutter speed for greater accuracy in subsequent shooting. Also, if a malfunction is detected or the shutter curtain fails to operate, Err blinks in the top LCD panel and in the viewfinder.

• The above warnings are displayed when any malfunction is detected. Fully depress

the shutter release button once. If Err in the top LCD panel and viewfinder stops blinking, the malfunction is corrected. If Err continues blinking, turn the power off and take the camera to an authorized Nikon dealer or service center for repair.

• The picture at the frame where the warning appeared may not have been taken properly.

• In rare cases, the warning may not appear when the shutter malfunctions.

Menu Guide

Details on each menu are described in this section.

• Custom Setting menu (x 90-110)

• Create a combination of functions that are different from the initial factory settings.

• Setup menu (x 111-124)

• Settings such as recording shooting data or date (x 35) are in setup menu.

• Shooting menu (x 125-143)

• Imprint shooting data, multiple exposure and interval timer settings are selected in shooting menu.

• Non-CPU lens (x 144-146)

• Focal length and maximum aperture of nonCPU lens are set in lens data.

• Language (x 34)

• Set language displayed in the rear LCD panel.

Menu Guide

Operation in Menu (all menus)

Press P or { on the multi-selector to change the highlighted selection and > (or center) to make settings or selections in the menu display.

• Setting menu (Example: Custom Setting menu, a3: Group dynamic AF)

Turn the Power switch on and press the MENU button to display the

menu.

• Unlock the multi-selector if it is locked.

Display desired menu.

• Press P/{ on the multi-selector to select the desired menu and press > so the

menu display appears.

Display desired item.

• Press P/{ to select your desired item and > to display details of the item

(sub-menu).

Display the desired function.

• Press P/{ to select your desired function from the sub-menu and > to

display settings of the function.

• Further sub-menus are available in the “a5: Focus area illum” and “f4:

Command dials”.

Set the function.

• Press P/{ to select the desired setting and > to set and return to the menu

display selected in step 3.

Complete the procedure.

• Press < button to backtrack display by display, or press MENU button twice to

return to the Shooting data display.

Menu display

1 3 3

1:Level of layer [ ]

The number of horizontal lines at the top of the menu indicates the level of layer. The deeper the layer you are, the greater the number of lines displayed.

2:Submenu [>]

“>” to the right of an option indicates that a submenu is available for that option.

Menu Guide

3:Setting other than default [ ]

“ ” to the left of an option indicates that the

selected option is a setting other than default.

4:Setting

The selected option setting is displayed at the bottom. If a submenu is available for the selected option, “Sub-menu” is displayed.

Custom Setting Menu

This feature allows you to create a combination of functions that differ from the initial factory settings.

• Custom Setting options

• Sub-menus are available for all options in groups a to f.

Custom setting option x

C: Bank select 91 R: Reset CSM 92 a: Autofocus

a1 AF-C priority 94 a2 AF-S priority 94 a3 Grp. dyn. AF 94 a4 AF activation 95 a5 Area illum. 95 a6 Area select 96 a7 Vert. AF-ON 96 a8 M/A mode 96

b: Metering/Exp.

b1 EV step 97 b2 Exp. comp. EV 97 b3 Exp. comp. 97 b4 Center weight 98 b5 Shutter spd. 98 b6 Screen comp. 98

c: Timers/Lock

c1 AE Lock 99 c2 AE-L/AF-L 99 c3 AF-ON/AE-L 100 c4 Auto mtr-off 100 c5 Self-timer 100

Custom setting option x

d: Shoot/Display

d1 Film loading 101 d2 Film rewind 101 d3 Film leader 101 d4 Last frame 102 d5 MB-40 CH fps 102 d6 DX warning 102 d7 Rear panel 103 d8 Imprint den. 103 d9 MB-40 Battery 103

e: BKT/Flash

e1 Sync speed 104 e2 Slowest speed 104 e3 AA flash mode 105 e4 Modeling 105 e5 Auto BKT set 105 e6 M mode bkting 106 e7 Bkting order 106 e8 Bkting select 106

f: Controls

f1 Center button 107 f2 Selector 107 f3 FUNC. button 108 f4 Command dials 109 f5 Buttons/dials 110

• Details on Custom Setting options

(default setting in bold type)

C: Bank select

Combinations of functions set in groups a-f can be stored in “bank” A, B, C or D, and a six-letter/number can be designated for each bank.

Options: A: Select bank A B: Select bank B C: Select bank C D: Select bank D

• Select your desired Custom Setting bank from A-D and press > to display “Rename”. If you do not wish to rename, press > to set. To name the bank, see the following.

• Renaming bank

Six letters (A to Z and a blank) and/or numbers (0 to 9) can be assigned to each Custom Setting bank.

• Press P/{ on the multi-selector to highlight “00000A” and > to highlight the first digit.

• Press P/{ to select the desired letter/number.

• Press > to highlight the second to sixth digits and P/{ to select the desired letter/number for each.

• Press > after selecting the sixth letter/number to set. The display returns to the Custom Setting menu.

Menu Guide

Changing the setting for an option in a particular bank (A to D) does not affect the setting for that option in other banks.

If any setting in selected Custom bank (A to D) has been changed from the original factory setting, Custom Setting indication is displayed in the rear LCD panel. Example: (Custom bank A)

Custom Setting Menu—continued

R: Reset CSM

In Reset CSM, all options can be reset to their initial factory settings. Only the settings in your selected Custom Setting bank (A to D) will be reset.

Options: No: Reset is not executed Yes: Reset is executed

• Select desired Custom Setting bank from A-D and press > on the multi-selector to

display the confirmation window.

• Select “Yes” and press > to execute reset.

• Default settings of each option

Custom setting option Default setting

a: Autofocus

a1 AF-C priority Release + fps a2 AF-S priority Focus priority a3 Grp.dyn. AF Pattern 1 Center a4 AF activation Release/AF-ON a5 Area illum.

Manual focus On Continuous On

When selected 0.2 s a6 Area select No wrap a7 Vert. AF-ON AF-ON a8 M/A mode Autofocus off

b: Metering/Exp.

b1 EV step 1/3 step b2 Exp. comp. EV 1/3 step b3 Exp. comp. [+/–] & CMD Dial b4 Center weight ø 12mm b5 Shutter Spd. Off b6 Screen comp. B or E (off)

Custom setting option Default setting

c: Timers/Lock

c1 AE Lock AE-L/AF-L button c2 AE-L/AF-L AE/AF lock c3 AF-ON/AE-L Default c4 Auto mtr-off 8 s c5 Self-timer 10 s

d: Shoot/Display

d1 Film loading Close back d2 Film rewind Auto d3 Film leader Rewind leader in d4 Last frame End of film d5 MB-40 CH fps 8 fps d6 DX warning After film load d7 Rear panel Normal d8 Imprint den. 0 d9 MB-40 Battery Alkaline (AA)

e: BKT/Flash

e1 Sync speed 1/250 e2 Slowest speed 1/60 e3 AA flash mode Off e4 Modeling On e5 Auto BKT set AE & flash e6 M mode bkting Speed e7 Bkting order MTR>Under>Over e8 Bkting select Manual select

f: Controls

f1 Center button Center AF area f2 Selector No action f3 FUNC. button FV Lock f4 Command dials

Rotation Normal

Assignment Off

Aperture Sub-command dial

Menus Off

f5 Buttons/dials Default

Menu Guide

Custom Setting Menu—continued

a1: AF-C priority x 48

The default setting for Continuous Servo AF is release priority. However, film advance speed can be set to decrease as much as possible to ensure a correct focus. (Useful in situations such as using focus tracking under dark conditions.) Also, it can be changed to focus priority, in which the shutter can be released only when the subject is in focus

Options: Release + fps: Shutter is released when the shutter release

button is pressed

Release + focus: Shutter is released when the shutter release

button is pressed but film advance rate drops to ensure a correct focus

Focus priority: Shutter cannot be released unless subject is

in-focus

a2: AF-S priority x 48

The default setting for Single Servo AF is focus priority. However, it can be changed to release priority.

Options: Focus priority: Shutter cannot be released unless subject is

in-focus

Release priority: Shutter is released when the shutter release

button is pressed

a3: Group dynamic AF x 52

The pattern of the groups in Group Dynamic AF Mode can be changed.

Options: Pattern 1 Center: Center-Subject Priority in Pattern 1 Pattern 1 Closest: Closest-Subject Priority in Pattern 1 Pattern 2 Center: Center-Subject Priority in Pattern 2 Pattern 2 Closest: Closest-Subject Priority in Pattern 2

• For the pattern of the groups of focus areas in Group Dynamic AF Mode, see page 53.

a4: AF activation x 28, 49

Autofocus operation is activated by lightly pressing the shutter release button at the default setting. However, it can be set to be started only by pressing the AF start button.

Options: Release/AF-ON: Autofocus initiated by lightly pressing the

shutter release button or AF start button

AF-ON only: Autofocus initiated only by pressing the AF start

button

a5: Area illum. x 50

In manual focus or continuous shooting, you can cancel the red highlighting of the selected focus area. Also, you can change the duration of the red focus area display to 0.2 sec. or 1 sec.

Options: Manual focus: Select On/Off for focus area illumination in

Manual focus

Continuous: Select On/Off for focus area illumination in

continuous shooting

When selected: Select the duration of illumination

a5-1: Manual focus

Options: On: Selected focus area illuminated in Manual focus Off: Selected focus area not illuminated in Manual focus

a5-2: Continuous mode

Options: On: Selected focus area illuminated in continuous shooting Off: Selected focus area not illuminated in continuous

Menu Guide

shooting

Custom Setting Menu—continued

a5-3: When selected

Options:

0.2 s: Selected focus area (by multi-selector) is illuminated for

0.2 sec.

1 s: Selected focus area (by multi-selector) is illuminated for 1

sec. In autofocus operation, selected focus area continues to blink.

a6: Area select x 50

The focus area can be set to be changed continuously in the same direction by pressing the same position on the multi-selector. This option enables you to switch the focus area to the opposite direction without having to press the opposite position on the multi-selector.

Options: No wrap: Focus area does not change continuously in the

same direction

Wrap: Focus area changes continuously in the same

direction

a7: Vert. AF-ON x 166

The function of the AF start button for vertical shooting on Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40 (optional) can be changed to assume the function of the AE/AF-L button.

Options: AF-ON: Operate as AF start button AE/AF-L: Operate as AE/AF-L button

• Setting in Custom Setting “c2: AE-L/AF-L” (x 99) becomes effective when “AE/AF-L” is selected.

a8: M/A mode x 61

If the AF-S lens you are using supports autofocus with manual priority (M/A), you can choose to allow autofocus operation in Manual focus.

Options: Autofocus off: Manual focus selected AF-C autofocus: Autofocus possible in Continuous Servo AF AF-S autofocus: Autofocus possible in Single Servo AF

b1: EV step x 64, 66, 68, 70

At the default setting, shutter speed and aperture are indicated in 1/3 EV steps. However, this can be changed to 1/2 or 1 EV steps.

Options: 1/3 step: Indicated/selected in 1/3 EV steps 1/2 step: Indicated/selected in 1/2 EV steps 1 step: Indicated/selected in 1 EV steps

b2: Exp. comp. EV x 74

At the default setting, exposure compensation is set in 1/3 EV steps. However, this can be changed to 1/2 or 1 EV steps.

Options: 1/3 step: Selected in 1/3 EV steps 1/2 step: Selected in 1/2 EV steps 1 step: Selected in 1 EV steps

b3: Exposure comp. x 74

Exposure compensation is set using the Main-Command Dial and the = button by default. However, it can be set to be selected using only the SubCommand Dial in Programmed Auto and Shutter-Priority Auto, or using only the Main-Command Dial in Aperture-Priority Auto exposure mode.

Options: [+/–] & CMD Dial: Exposure compensation selected with

Command Dial while pressing the = button

CMD Dial only: Exposure compensation selected only with

Command Dial

Menu Guide

• If “CMD Dial only” is selected in Manual exposure mode, electronic analog displays in the top LCD panel and viewfinder appear and “0” of the display blinks. In Manual exposure mode, exposure compensation cannot be selected only with the Command Dial even if ”CMD Dial only“ is selected.

• If “Change Main/Sub” is selected in “f4: Command dials” (x 109), the operation of the Main- and Sub-Command Dials switch (except in Programmed Auto exposure mode).

Custom Setting Menu—continued

b4: Center weight x 63

Area of meter’s sensitivity (concentration of 75%) in Center-Weighted Metering can be changed. Also, the sensitivity can be set to average in the entire frame.

Options: ø 8mm: 8mm dia. Center-Weighted Metering circle ø 12mm: 12mm dia. Center-Weighted Metering circle ø 15mm: 15mm dia. Center-Weighted Metering circle ø 20mm: 20mm dia. Center-Weighted Metering circle Average: Average of entire viewfinder

b5: Extend Shtr. Spd x 70

At the default setting, shutter speed in Manual exposure mode can be selected as slow as 30 sec. This can be extended down to 30 min.

Options: Off: Not extended On: Extended

• With “On” selected, the following shutter speeds over 30 sec. can be selected with the Main-Command Dial.

40 sec., 50 sec., 1 min., 1.5 min., 2 min., 3 min., 4 min., 5 min., 6 min., 8 min., 10 min., 13 min., 15 min., 20 min., 25 min., 30 min.

• When these shutter speeds are selected, shutter speed is not compensated in

Auto Exposure Bracketing and electronic analog display turns off.

b6: Screen comp. x 85, 168

Exposure value must be compensated depending on focusing screen, lens or teleconverter used.

Options: B or E (off): No compensation Other screen: Compensation

• See the next page for setting compensation value.

• For focusing screen other than B- or E-type, “Other screen” must be set even when the required compensation value is “0”.

• Setting compensation value

Exposure can be compensated up to ±2 EV in 1/2 steps (see the instruction manual of the focusing screen for the required compensation value).

• Press > on the multi-selector after selecting “Other

screen”. Display for setting compensation value appears.

• Press P/{ to select compensation value and > to set.

c1: AE Lock x 72

At the default setting, exposure is locked when AE/AF-L button is pressed. Exposure can also be set to be locked by pressing the shutter release button.

Options: AE-L/AF-L button: Exposure locked with AE/AF-L button

only

+ Release button: Exposure locked with either AE/AF-L

button or shutter release button

c2: AE-L/AF-L x 58, 72

At the default setting, pressing the AE/AF-L button locks both exposure and focus. This can be changed as following.

Options: AE/AF lock: Both exposure and focus are locked AE lock only: Only exposure is locked AE-L hold/reset: Exposure remains locked until shutter is

released, exposure meter is off or AE/AF-L button is pressed again

AE lock hold: Exposure remains locked until exposure meter

is off or AE/AF-L button is pressed again (pressing shutter release button does not release the lock)

AF lock only: Only focus is locked

Menu Guide

Custom Setting Menu—continued

c3: AF-ON/AE-L x 49, 58, 72

Functions of the AF start and AE/AF-L buttons can be changed as following.

Options: Default: Functions remain unchanged Switch function: Exchange each functions Both AF-ON: Autofocus activated with AE/AF-L button

(function of AF start button unchanged)

Both AE-L: Exposure/focus locked with AF start button

(function of AE/AF-L button unchanged)

• Setting in “c2: AE-L/AF-L” (x 99) is also active in this

option. For example, if “Both AE-L” is selected and “AF lock only” is set in “c2: AE-L/AF-L”, only focus is locked by pressing either AE/AF-L or AF start button.

c4: Auto meter-off x 18

After the shutter release button is pressed, the camera’s exposure meter remains on for approx. 8 sec. (if no other operation is performed). This duration can be changed to 4, 15 or 30 sec.

Options: 4 s

8 s

15 s 30 s

• Note that with longer auto meter-off duration, batteries are exhausted faster and usable number of film roll per battery decreases.

c5: Self-timer x 82

At the default setting, the shutter is released 10 sec. after the shutter release button is fully depressed. This duration can be changed to 2, 5 or 20 sec.

Options: 2 s 5 s

10 s

20 s

100

Nikon F6 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual