Olympus E410KIT User Manual
INSTRUCTION
MANUAL
INSTRUCTION
Basic guide
Mastering the E-410
Improving your shooting skills k
Shooting guides
MANUAL
Shooting functions
Playback functions
Customizing the settings/functions of
your camera
Printing
Using the OLYMPUS Master software
Getting to know your camera better
Information
Interchangeable lenses
Others
z We recommend that you take test shots to get accustomed to your camera before taking
important photographs.
z The screen and camera illustrations shown in this manual were produced during the
development stages and may differ from the actual product.
z The contents in this manual are based on firmware version 1.0 for this camera. If there are
addition and/or modification of functions due to firmware update for the camera, the contents will
differ. For the latest information, please visit the Olympus website.
Structure of this manual
Basic camera operation Basic guide
This section explains the preparations and settings for the camera, and basic camera
operation from easy techniques for shooting to playback and erase functions.
Attaching the strap ........................................... 3 Adjusting the viewfinder’s diopter .....................7
Preparing the battery........................................ 3 Setting the date/time.........................................8
Attaching a lens to the camera......................... 5 Shooting .........................................................10
Loading the card .............................................. 6 Playback/Erasing ............................................12
Power on.......................................................... 7
Mastering the E-410 P. 13
Read chapter 1 to master the basic camera operation before proceeding to use the various
functions available on this camera.
Operating the camera g “Mastering the E-410” (P. 17)
Learn how to use the functions in the shooting guides g “Improving your shooting
skills k Shooting guides” (P. 24)
Proceed to the pages on the various functions.
Locating the information you need
g “Shooting tips and information” (P. 90), “Menu directory” (P. 102), “Names of
parts” (P. 108), “Index” (P. 130)
Indications used in this manual
Important information on factors which may lead to a malfunction or
operational problems. Also warns of operations that should be
absolutely avoided.
TIPS Useful information and hints that will help you get the most out of your
g Reference pages describing details or related information.
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camera.
Basic guide
Attaching the strap
Thread the strap as indicated by the arrows (1, 2).
Lastly, pull the strap tight making sure that it is fastened securely (3).
Attach the other end of the strap to the other eyelet in the same way.
1
2
3
Preparing the battery
1 Charging the battery
Charging indicator
Red light: Charging in progress
Green light: Charging completed
(Charging time: Approx. 210 minutes)
3
Lithium ion battery (BLS-1)
Basic guide
Lithium ion charger (BCS-1)
1
AC cable
2
AC wall outlet
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3
2 Loading the battery
Battery compartment lock
Direction indicating mark
Battery
compartment
Basic guide
cover
2
• Close the battery compartment cover until a click is heard.
1
3
Unloading the battery
Press the battery lock to unlock and remove the battery.
Battery lock
• It is recommended to set aside a backup battery for prolonged shooting in case the battery in use
drains.
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Attaching a lens to the camera
1 Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear cap from the lens
2
1
Rear cap
2
1
Body cap
2 Attaching a lens to the camera
• Align the lens attachment mark (red) on the camera
with the alignment mark (red) on the lens, then
insert the lens into the camera’s body (1). Rotate
the lens in the direction indicated by the arrow until
you hear it click (2).
• Do not press the lens release button.
Alignment mark
(Red)
3 Remove the lens cap
Removing the lens from the camera
While pressing the lens release button (1), rotate the lens in the
direction as indicated by (2).
Basic guide
Lens attachment mark (Red)
2
1
Lens cap
Lens release button
2
1
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5
Loading the card
Open the card cover and insert the card
CompactFlash/Microdrive xD-Picture Card
Basic guide
it can go.
Card access lamp
W Mark
Insert the card until it is locked into place.Insert the card’s contact area into the slot as far as
Card cover
CF card slot
xD-Picture Card slot
Removing the card
• Never open the card cover while the card access lamp is blinking.
CompactFlash/Microdrive xD-Picture Card
• Press the eject button all the way in and let it
pop out, then press it all the way in again to
eject the card.
• Pull out the card.
Eject button
• Press the inserted card lightly and it will be
ejected.
• Pull out the card.
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Power on
Set the camera’s power switch to ON.
To turn off the power, set the power switch to OFF.
Set the mode dial to
AUTO.
SSWF indicator
LCD monitor
INFO button
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Control panel screen
When the camera is turned on, the
control panel screen is displayed
on the monitor.
If the control panel screen does
not appear, press the INFO
button.
Dust reduction function operation
The dust reduction function is automatically activated when the camera is turned on.
Ultrasonic vibrations are used to remove dust and dirt from the image pickup device’s filter
surface. The SSWF (Super Sonic Wave Filter) indicator blinks while dust reduction is
working.
Adjusting the viewfinder’s diopter
Adjust the viewfinder’s diopter in accordance with your
vision.
While looking through the viewfinder, rotate the diopter
adjustment dial little by little.
When you can see the AF frame clearly, adjustment is
complete.
Diopter adjustment dial
Viewfinder
Basic guide
AF frame
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7
Setting the date/time
Date and time information is recorded on the card together with the images. The file name is
also included with the date and time information. Be sure to set the correct date and time
before using the camera.
1 Press the MENU button
Basic guide
CUSTOM RESET
SETTING
MENU
2 Use ac to select [Z], then press d
a
d
c
3 Use ac to select [X], then press d
a
d
c
4 Use ac to select the year [Y], then press d
a
d
c
5 Repeat this procedure until the date and time are completely set
• The time is displayed in the 24-hour format.
a
d
c
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Y/M/D
Y/M/D
Y/M/D
6 Use ac to select the date format
a
c
7 Press the i button
i
8 Press the MENU button to exit
Y/M/D
Basic guide
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9
Shooting
1 Holding the camera
Keep your fingers and the strap away from the lens and the flash.
Basic guide
Horizontal grip Vertical grip
2 Place the AF frame on the subject while viewing through the viewfinder
3 Adjust the focus
Press the shutter button gently (halfway).
AF confirmation mark
• The focus is locked when a beep tone is output. The AF confirmation mark and the AF
focusing frame light up in the viewfinder.
• The shutter speed and aperture value that have been set automatically by the camera are
displayed.
• The control panel screen is not displayed when the shutter button is pressed.
Aperture value
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Shutter speed
Halfway down
Shutter button
Card access lamp
4 Release the shutter
Press the shutter button all the way (fully).
• The shutter sounds and the picture is taken.
• The card access lamp blinks and the camera starts
recording the picture.
• Never remove the battery or card while the card access lamp mark is blinking. Doing so could
destroy stored pictures and prevent storage of pictures you have just taken.
All the way down
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Taking a picture while viewing the monitor
It is possible to use the LCD monitor as a viewfinder and check the subject’s composition, or
shoot while viewing an enlarged display on the LCD monitor.
g “Live view” (P. 22)
1 Press the u (live view) button
• The subject is displayed on the LCD monitor.
u button
2 Press the shutter button all the way down
• The picture is taken with the focus adjusted.
When the camera stops operating
If no operations are performed for approximately 8 seconds while the camera is on, the
monitor backlight turns off to save battery power. If no operations are performed for
approximately one minute thereafter, the camera enters the sleep mode (stand-by) and stops
operating. The camera activates again when you touch any button (the shutter button, arrow
pad, etc.). g “Backlight timer” (P. 75), “Sleep timer” (P. 75)
Basic guide
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11
Playback/Erasing
Playing back images
Pressing the q (playback) button displays the last picture taken.
q button
Basic guide
Displays the
previous frame
Arrow pad
Displays the
next frame
Close-up playback
Each time you rotate the control dial towards U, the image is enlarged in steps of 2× - 14×.
Control dial
Erasing images
Playback the image you want to erase and press the S (erase) button.
Use ac to select [YES] and press the i button to erase.
12
S button
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Table of Contents
1 Mastering the E-410 ................................................................................17
Describes the camera’s functions and how to operate them.
How to use the mode dial ......................................................................................................17
How to set the functions ........................................................................................................18
Live view................................................................................................................................ 22
Basic function guides.............................................................................................................24
A guide to functions for different subjects..............................................................................25
Selecting the appropriate mode for shooting conditions
Scene mode ..........................................................................................................................29
P: Program shooting .............................................................................................................30
A: Aperture priority shooting.................................................................................................31
S: Shutter priority shooting....................................................................................................32
M: Manual shooting...............................................................................................................33
Preview function ....................................................................................................................34
Various shooting functions
If correct focus cannot be obtained (Focus lock)................................................................... 35
AE bracketing ........................................................................................................................35
Flash shooting .......................................................................................................................37
Easy shooting modes...........................................................................................17
Advanced shooting modes...................................................................................17
How to make function settings .............................................................................18
Setting functions using the control panel screen..................................................18
Setting functions using direct buttons ..................................................................19
Setting on the menu.............................................................................................20
Descriptions in this manual ..................................................................................21
Switching the information display......................................................................... 22
Enlarged display operation...................................................................................23
Ruled lines display ...............................................................................................23
2 Improving your shooting skills k Shooting guides..................................24
Describes the shooting methods suitable for individual situation.
Focus: Operating the shutter button.....................................................................24
Brightness: Exposure compensation....................................................................24
Color: White balance............................................................................................ 25
Taking landscape pictures ...................................................................................25
Taking flower pictures ..........................................................................................26
Taking night scene pictures .................................................................................28
3 Shooting functions ...................................................................................29
Categorizes and describes the shooting functions according to the shooting modes; shooting
functions; focusing; exposure, color and image.
Flash mode ..........................................................................................................37
Manual flash.........................................................................................................38
Setting the flash mode .........................................................................................39
Using the built-in flash..........................................................................................40
Flash intensity control ..........................................................................................40
External electronic flashes (optional) ...................................................................41
Using the external electronic flash .......................................................................41
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Super FP flash .....................................................................................................42
Using commercially available flashes .................................................................. 42
Sequential shooting/Self-timer/Remote control .....................................................................43
Panorama shooting ...............................................................................................................46
Non-specified commercial flashes .......................................................................42
Setting the functions ............................................................................................43
Sequential shooting .............................................................................................43
Using the self-timer ..............................................................................................43
Using the remote control...................................................................................... 44
Focusing functions
AF frame selection ................................................................................................................47
Focus mode........................................................................................................................... 47
AF illuminator ........................................................................................................................49
Simultaneous use of S-AF mode and MF mode (S-AF+MF) ...............................49
Simultaneous use of C-AF mode and MF mode (C-AF+MF)............................... 49
Exposure, image and color
Selecting the record mode ....................................................................................................50
Metering mode k Changing the metering system................................................................ 52
Exposure compensation k Varying the image brightness ...................................................53
AE lock k Locking the exposure ..........................................................................................54
ISO k Setting the desired sensitivity to light ........................................................................54
White balance k Adjusting the color tone ............................................................................ 54
Picture mode .........................................................................................................................58
Gradation............................................................................................................................... 59
Noise reduction .....................................................................................................................59
Noise filter k Setting the noise filter level.............................................................................60
Color space ...........................................................................................................................60
Anti-shock.............................................................................................................................. 60
Types of record modes ........................................................................................ 50
RAW data.............................................................................................................50
How to select the record mode ............................................................................ 51
SQ k Setting the number of pixels and compression rate.................................. 51
Setting the auto/preset/custom white balance ..................................................... 55
WB Compensation ...............................................................................................56
Setting the one-touch white balance.................................................................... 57
4 Playback functions...................................................................................61
Describes the functions used when playing back images that have been taken.
Single-frame/Close-up playback ...........................................................................................61
Index display/Calendar display.............................................................................................. 62
Information display ................................................................................................................ 63
Slideshow ..............................................................................................................................64
Rotating images ....................................................................................................................64
Playback on TV .....................................................................................................................65
Editing still images................................................................................................................. 65
Copying images..................................................................................................................... 66
Protecting images k Preventing accidental erasure ............................................................ 67
Erasing images...................................................................................................................... 68
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Copying all the frames .........................................................................................66
Copying selected frames .....................................................................................67
Single-frame copy ................................................................................................67
Single-frame protect.............................................................................................67
Protecting selected frames ..................................................................................67
Canceling all protections...................................................................................... 68
Single-frame erase...............................................................................................68
All-frame erase.....................................................................................................69
Erasing selected frames.......................................................................................69
5 Customizing the settings/functions of your camera .................................70
Describes the other different types of functions. The settings or functions can be changed to suit
the environment in which the camera is used.
Custom reset setting..............................................................................................................70
AEL/AFL mode ......................................................................................................................72
Other function settings...........................................................................................................72
AEL/AFL memo....................................................................................................72
AEL metering .......................................................................................................73
Compensating all WB...........................................................................................73
Auto pop up..........................................................................................................73
7 FUNCTION......................................................................................................73
Live view boost ....................................................................................................74
File name .............................................................................................................74
Rec view k Checking the picture immediately after shooting............................. 75
Setting the beep sound ........................................................................................75
Monitor brightness adjustment .............................................................................75
Sleep timer...........................................................................................................75
Backlight timer......................................................................................................75
USB mode............................................................................................................76
Changing the display language............................................................................76
Selecting the video signal type before TV connection .........................................76
HI (Underwater mode) ..................................................................................77
Firmware ..............................................................................................................77
6 Printing ....................................................................................................78
Describes how to print images that have been taken.
Print reservation (DPOF) .......................................................................................................78
Direct printing (PictBridge).....................................................................................................80
Print reservation...................................................................................................78
Single-frame reservation......................................................................................78
All-frame reservation ............................................................................................79
Resetting the print reservation data .....................................................................79
Connecting the camera to a printer......................................................................81
Easy printing ........................................................................................................81
Custom printing....................................................................................................82
7 Using the OLYMPUS Master software ....................................................84
Describes how to transfer and store the camera’s images to your computer.
Flowchart ...............................................................................................................................84
Using the provided OLYMPUS Master software ...................................................................84
Connecting the camera to a computer ..................................................................................85
Start up the OLYMPUS Master software...............................................................................86
Displaying camera images on a computer ............................................................................86
Viewing still images ...............................................................................................................88
What is OLYMPUS Master?.................................................................................84
Downloading and saving images .........................................................................86
Disconnecting the camera from your computer ...................................................87
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To increase the number of languages...................................................................................88
Transferring images to your computer without using OLYMPUS Master..............................89
8 Getting to know your camera better ........................................................90
Reference for help or when you wish to know more about the camera.
Shooting tips and information................................................................................................90
When error messages are displayed..................................................................................... 96
Camera maintenance ............................................................................................................98
Tips before you start taking pictures ....................................................................90
Shooting tips ........................................................................................................ 90
Additional shooting tips and information .............................................................. 93
Playback tips........................................................................................................ 95
Viewing pictures on a computer........................................................................... 95
Cleaning and storing the camera .........................................................................98
Cleaning mode k Removing dust....................................................................... 99
Pixel mapping k Checking the image processing functions............................... 99
9 Information.............................................................................................100
Describes how to handle the cards and rechargeable battery, and contains a directory of the camera’s
functions and displays.
Card basics .........................................................................................................................100
Battery and charger.............................................................................................................101
Menu directory..................................................................................................................... 102
Functions that can be set by shooting mode.......................................................................105
List of record modes............................................................................................................107
Names of parts ....................................................................................................................108
Glossary ..............................................................................................................................115
Specifications ......................................................................................................................118
Usable cards ......................................................................................................100
Formatting the card............................................................................................ 100
Using your charger abroad ................................................................................101
Camera ..............................................................................................................108
Viewfinder indications ........................................................................................110
Control panel screen.......................................................................................... 111
LCD monitor indications (during live view)......................................................... 113
LCD monitor indications (during playback) ........................................................114
10 Interchangeable lenses .........................................................................121
Describes how to handle interchangeable lenses.
Lens..................................................................................................................................... 121
ZUIKO DIGITAL interchangeable lens ................................................................................121
11 Others....................................................................................................124
Describes precautions regarding the use of the camera and accessories.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ...................................................................................................124
Index....................................................................................................................................130
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1 Mastering the E-410
How to use the mode dial
The mode dial allows you to change the camera
settings easily according to the subject.
Easy shooting modes
• Select according to the shooting scene. The camera sets the appropriate shooting conditions
automatically.
• When rotating the mode dial or turning off the power in the easy shooting modes, functions with
changes made to their settings are restored to the factory default settings.
AUTO AUTO
i PORTRAIT Suitable for shooting a portrait-style image of a person.
l LANDSCAPE Suitable for shooting landscapes and other outdoor scenes.
& MACRO Suitable for taking close-up pictures (macro shooting).
j SPORT Suitable for capturing fast-moving action without blurring.
/
NIGHT+PORTRAIT
g Scene mode
Advanced shooting modes
• For more advanced shooting and greater creative control, you can set the aperture value and
shutter speed.
• The settings made in the advanced shooting modes are retained even if the camera is turned off.
P Program shooting
A Aperture priority shooting
S Shutter priority shooting
M Manual shooting
Allows you to shoot using an optimum aperture and shutter speed that
the camera sets. The built-in flash pops up automatically in low-light
conditions.
Suitable for shooting both the main subject and background at night.
20 different scene modes are available to suit a wide range of shooting
situations. (gP. 29)
Allows you to shoot using an aperture and shutter speed that
the camera sets. (gP. 30)
Allows you to set the aperture manually. The camera sets the
shutter speed automatically. (gP. 31)
Allows you to set the shutter speed manually. The camera sets
the aperture automatically. (gP. 32)
Allows you to set the aperture and shutter speed manually.
(gP. 33)
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Mastering the E-410
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How to set the functions
How to make function settings
There are three basic ways to make function settings with this camera.
• Setting while looking at the control panel screen (See below)
• Setting using direct buttons (gP. 19)
• Setting on the menu (gP. 20)
1
Setting functions using the control panel screen
Mastering the E-410
Select an item on the control panel screen and
change the setting.
1 When the power switch is set to ON,
the control panel screen (shooting
information and setting screen) is
displayed on the LCD monitor.
• The display changes each time the INFO
button is pressed.
• You can also display the control panel screen
and change the setting when using live view.
Control panel screen
Control dial
Power switch
i button p Arrow padINFO button
2007.08.16
Basic
2007.08.16
Detailed
2 Press the i button.
• The cursor (function being selected) on the control panel screen lights.
e.g.) When setting Sequential/Self-timer/Remote control shooting
Cursor
3 Use p to move the cursor to the function you want to set.
4 Turn the control dial to change the setting.
• Pressing the i button while the item is being selected displays the direct menu for that
function. Turn the control dial to change the setting.
• If you press the i button or you do not operate the control dial within a few seconds, your
18
setting will be confirmed and the control panel screen will be restored.
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Display OFF
Direct menu
Functions on the control panel screen
The functions that can be set on the basic display and detailed display vary.
2007.08.16
1
2
3
4
765
Basic Detailed
No. Items Basic Detailed Ref. page
1 ISO 33 P. 54
WB 33 P. 55
2
White balance compensation k 3 P. 56
3 Metering mode 33 P. 52
4 Card 33 P. 100
5 Record mode 33 P. 50
6 AF frame 33 P. 47
7 Focus mode 33 P. 47
Sequential shooting/Self-timer/
8
Remote control
Flash mode 33 P. 39
9
Flash intensity control k 3 P. 40
10 Picture mode 33 P. 58
Color space
Sharpness
11
Contrast
Saturation
Gradation
10
9
8
2007.08.16
1
2
9
54
3,6,7,8
33 P. 43
P. 60
k 3
P. 58
P. 58
P. 58
P. 59
10
11
3: Can be set k: Cannot be set
Setting functions using direct buttons
This camera is equipped with direct buttons where functions have been assigned and can be
set quickly.
1 Press the button for the function you want to set.
• The direct menu is displayed.
e.g.) Setting Sequential/Self-timer/
Remote control shooting
1
Control dial
4
2
1
Mastering the E-410
Direct menu
3
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19
2 Turn the control dial to change the setting.
• Press the i button to confirm your setting. Or if you do not operate the control dial within a
few seconds, your setting will be confirmed and the control panel screen will be restored.
List of direct buttons
The functions assigned to buttons are as shown below.
No. Direct buttons Function Ref. page
1 </Y/j
1
Mastering the E-410
2 F Exposure compensation button Exposure compensation P. 53
3 u Live view button Turns live view on or off P. 22
4 # Flash button
Remote control/Self-timer/
Sequential shooting button
Remote control/Self-timer/
Sequential shooting
Pops up the flash and sets flash
mode
Setting on the menu
1 Press the MENU button.
• The menu is displayed on the LCD monitor.
CUSTOM RESET
SETTING
MENU button
P. 43
P. 39
20
Operation guide is displayed at the bottom of the screen.
CANCEL Ja : Press MENU to cancel the setting.
SELECT J/ : Press dac to select the item.
GO Jf : Press i to confirm your settings.
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The illustration displayed corresponds to the arrow pad shown
below.
:a :c :d :b
p Arrow pad
i button
2 Use p to set a function.
CUSTOM RESET
SETTING
NOISE FILTER STANDARD
NOISE REDUCT.
Tab The current setting is displayed
Moves to the functions under the
tab you have selected.
Types of tabs
W Sets shooting functions.
X Sets shooting functions.
q Sets playback functions.
Y Customizes shooting functions.
Z Sets functions that allow you to use the camera efficiently.
Select a function and go to the
setting screen.
Function
3 Press i repeatedly until the menu disappears.
• The normal shooting screen is restored.
• For the menu lists, see “Menu directory” (g P. 102).
Descriptions in this manual
The operating instructions of the control panel screen, direct buttons and menu are described
as follows in this manual.
NOISE FILTER STANDARD
NOISE REDUCT.
Control panel setting
screen
Control panel screen
e.g.: When setting Remote control/Self-timer/Sequential shooting
ip: j/</Yi
Direct buttons setting screen Menu setting screen
1
Mastering the E-410
Direct buttons
e.g.: When setting Remote control/Self-timer/Sequential shooting
</Y/j Control dial
Menu
e.g.: When setting white balance
MENU[W][WB]
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Live view
It is possible to use the LCD monitor as a viewfinder and check the subject’s composition, or
shoot while viewing an enlarged display on the LCD monitor.
1 Press the u button.
• The subject is displayed on the LCD monitor.
AFL button
1
Mastering the E-410
Control dial
INFO button
u button
2 Press the shutter button all the way down to focus and shoot.
• To focus in advance, hold down the AFL button and press the shutter button. The focus is
locked when the AFL button is pressed.
• The image display on the monitor freezes as the mirror goes down during focusing. The
picture you just took is briefly displayed on the monitor so you can check the picture.
To focus using MF
1 Set [AF MODE] to [MF].
g “Focus mode” (P. 47)
• Turn the focus ring and focus on the subject. For MF shooting method, refer to “Focus mode”
(P. 47).
• You can also press the AFL button to activate auto focus.
Switching the information display
You can press the INFO button to switch the information displayed on the monitor.
Information display
ON
Information display
*1
Displayed when [FRAME ASSIST] is set.
*2
For operation in the enlarged display, refer to “Enlarged display operation” on the next page.
Information display ON
+ Ruled lines display
OFF
*1
Enlarged display
Information display ON
+ Histogram
*2
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Enlarged display operation
It is possible to enlarge the subject 7 or 10 times for display. Enlarging the image during MF
makes focus confirmation and adjustment easier.
1 Use p to move the frame and press the i button.
• Area inside the frame is enlarged and displayed.
• Press and hold the i button to return the shifted enlargement frame to the center.
2 Turn the control dial to change the magnification (7×/10×).
• Pressing i cancels enlarged display operation.
x Notes
• If there is a high-intensity light source within the screen, the image may be displayed darker
but will be recorded normally.
• If the live view function is used over a long period, the temperature of the image pickup device
rises causing images with high ISO sensitivity to appear noisy and unevenly colored. Either
lower the ISO sensitivity or turn off the camera for some time.
• Replacing the lens will cause live view to stop.
• The following functions are not available during live view.
C-AF/AE lock/[AEL/AFL]
Ruled lines display
You can display the ruled lines on the LCD monitor as a guide when confirming the
composition.
MENU[Y][FRAME ASSIST]
[OFF]/[GOLDEN SECTION]/[GRID]/[SCALE]
1
Mastering the E-410
TIPS
Brightening the monitor to get a clear view of the subject:
J Refer to “Live view boost” (P. 74)
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2
Improving your shooting skills k Shooting guides
Basic function guides
Take pictures frequently to familiarize yourself with the camera. You can start off by taking
pictures of your surrounding subjects like children, flowers or pets. And from the poor quality
pictures you have taken, try to figure out what went wrong. The problems can often be
resolved just by being more observant during shooting.
Focus: Operating the shutter button
Out of focus seems to be the common cause when pictures
2
taken do not turn out well. In many cases, instead of the
Improving your shooting skills k Shooting guides
intended focus on the subject, the back or front of the subject
or other objects are focused.
The shutter button can be half-pressed and full pressed. Once
you are able to operate the half-press and full press effectively,
you can even focus accurately on moving subjects.
g “Shooting” (P. 10), “If correct focus cannot be obtained
(Focus lock)” (P. 35)
However, even if the subject is in focus, the picture can
become blurred if the camera moves while the shutter button is
being pressed. Make sure to hold the camera properly so that
it does not shake. The camera is particularly subject to shaking
when using live view to take pictures while viewing the subject
on the monitor. In addition, it may be necessary to use a tripod
to prevent camera shake even when you feel there is sufficient
lighting.
g “Holding the camera” (P. 10)
Besides out of focus and camera shake problems, the motion of the subject will also cause
the picture to blur. Ability to shoot at a shutter speed that matches the motion of the subject is
essential. You can confirm the shutter speed and aperture on the displays of the viewfinder
and monitor when taking pictures by pressing the shutter button halfway. Check out these
displays during your shooting practices.
g “How to use the mode dial” (P. 17), “Preview function” (P. 34), “Live view” (P. 22)
Halfway
down:
All the way
down:
Brightness: Exposure compensation
The camera automatically determines the aperture value and
shutter speed according to the brightness level. This is known
as auto exposure. However, auto exposure alone may not
result in pictures of your expectations. At times like this, you
can adjust the exposure through increasing or decreasing the
exposure value set by the camera’s auto exposure during
shooting.
Increase the exposure when you want the dazzling sensation
of the summer beach or the whiteness of the snow to stand
out. And decrease the exposure when the area to be shot is smaller and brighter compared to
its surrounding area. If you are unsure how much exposure compensation is required, it is
better to take the picture with various settings.
g “Exposure compensation k Varying the image brightness” (P. 53)
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Color: White balance
There are other sources of lighting like tungsten light and fluorescent light, besides the
sunlight, illuminating the subject. Unlike the sunlight, these lights contain particular colors.
Hence, the same white object shot under different lighting conditions turns out in different
colors. Even for sunlight, the outcome differs depending on the sky conditions, shadow of
trees or buildings etc.
White balance automatically corrects the effects from these lighting and enables shooting
with the right colors. Though the right colors can be obtained when the white balance is set to
[AUTO], depending on the shooting situations, it may not be possible to get the intended
colors. In such cases, change to an appropriate setting.
g “White balance k Adjusting the color tone” (P. 54)
Fluorescent light
Tungsten light Shade of tree
A guide to functions for different subjects
This section describes the functions suitable under different shooting conditions depending
on the subject.
Taking landscape pictures
Outdoor scenes such as flower scenery and night scenery are landscape pictures. There are
different things to take note of when taking different landscape pictures. This section
describes taking outdoor scenery pictures such as forests and lakes in daylight.
Changing shooting mode
Outdoor scenery includes both motion and still sceneries. The
shooting method changes accordingly in order to capture a
realistic movement of the subject.
• To take a picture that focuses on a certain point among a wider
range of the image such as bringing out the depth of a forest, use
A (Aperture priority shooting) mode and close the aperture
(increase the aperture value) as much as possible.
• To capture the instant where waves smash against the seashore,
use S (Shutter priority shooting) mode and select a fast shutter
speed. To shoot a flowing waterfall or river, set a slow shutter
speed to capture a scene different from the actual scene.
Exposure compensation can be used even under different shooting modes. Check the image
that you have shot and use + or - to compensate.
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Improving your shooting skills k Shooting guides
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Using white balance
The color of water is different depending on whether it is a lake
surrounded by forests or a tropical sea. To capture the subtle
difference in color, try changing the white balance setting.
It may be difficult to use auto settings to capture the subtle
colors of a lake reflecting the leafy green of the trees or a sea
surrounded by corals. Try changing the settings for different
situations such as 5300K for sunny days and 7500K for an
outdoor shaded area during sunny days.
Changing metering mode
2
Depending on the depth and the direction of the sun, the brightness
of the sea differs significantly even in the same composition. There
Improving your shooting skills k Shooting guides
is also a difference in the brightness of forests depending on the way
the trees overlap each other. If you know which are the areas to
emphasize the compensation in the image composition, you can
change the metering mode.
The metering mode is set in ESP as long as the camera settings
remain unchanged. The camera automatically assesses the
brightness in the composition and the ESP determines the
exposure. To emphasize on specific partial exposure in the
composition, change to center weighted metering or spot metering,
adjust the AF frame to the locations that you wish to adjust the
exposure and measure the exposure.
Changing saturation
There may be times when you could not reproduce the same color as what you have seen
even when you have used white balance or exposure compensation. You can set the
saturation to achieve the color that you want. You can select high or low setting for saturation.
When the setting is high, a vivid color will be used. However, as the image will be recorded
with this setting during shooting, it is recommended to avoid over-setting.
g “A: Aperture priority shooting” (P. 31), “S: Shutter priority shooting” (P. 32), “Metering
mode k Changing the metering system” (P. 52), “Exposure compensation k Varying the
image brightness” (P. 53), “White balance k Adjusting the color tone” (P. 54),
“[SATURATION] : Vividness of the color” (P. 58)
Taking flower pictures
Flower scenery ranges from a bunch of flowers in the wild to a field of flowers. The way of
shooting differs depending on how you wish to capture the image.
Using white balance
There are many colors of flowers ranging from light to vivid
ones. Depending on the colors, subtle color shades may not
be captured as seen.
When beautiful color shades are not reproduced, check the
light condition and change the white balance setting. The
default setting of white balance is auto as long as the camera
settings are not changed. Auto setting is fine but changing
the settings for different situations such as 5300K for sunny
days and 7500K for an outdoor shaded area during sunny
days will bring out subtle color shades more effectively.
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Using exposure compensation
When shooting a picture with background, select a
background that will bring out the shape and color of the
flower. A simple background will enhance the subject. When
shooting bright and whitish flowers, adjust the exposure
compensation toward – (minus) so that the flower stands out
from the dark background.
Changing shooting mode
The method to capture a subject changes according to the type of
subject you wish to emphasize, be it a field or a bunch of flowers. To
change the focus area, set to A (aperture priority shooting) mode
and select the aperture value.
• When you open the aperture (decrease the aperture value), the camera
will focus within a shorter range (shallow depth of field), producing an
emphasized subject with a blurred background.
• When you close the aperture (increase the aperture value), the camera
will focus over a wider range (more depth of field), producing a picture
with clear focus.
You can use the preview function to confirm the changes in the depth
of field when the aperture is changed.
Using live view
When using a conventional single-lens reflex camera with interchangeable lens system, if
you want to take pictures with different exposure compensation and white balance settings,
you have to view the pictures later to check the results. With the live view function of this
camera, you can use the monitor to display and check the subject you want to capture when
taking the picture.
Changing lenses
When the blooming flowers are few and sparse, attach a telephoto lens to take the picture. A
picture taken with a telephoto lens will appear as though the flowers are blooming thickly and
the distance seen is closer. Using telescopic feature of the zoom lens also achieves the same
effect but it is easier to achieve the effect when the focus distance is longer such as 150 mm
or 200 mm, rather than 54 mm.
g “A: Aperture priority shooting” (P. 31), “Live view” (P. 22), “Preview function” (P. 34),
“Exposure compensation k Varying the image brightness” (P. 53),
“White balance k Adjusting the color tone” (P. 54)
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27
Taking night scene pictures
There are different types of night scenes, ranging from the afterglow of a sunset to city lights
at night. Sunset and fireworks sceneries are also a type of night scene.
Using a tripod
A tripod is a must when shooting night scenes as the shutter
speed is slow due to the darkness. Even when a tripod is not
available, you should also place the camera on a stable
ground such that it does not shake. Even when the camera is
secured, you may also move the camera when pressing the
shutter button. Hence, use the remote control or self timer to
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activate the shutter as far as possible.
Improving your shooting skills k Shooting guides
Changing shooting mode
When taking night scenes, the balance of the brightness in the composition is not uniform
due to the intensity of brightness. As there are many dark areas, using P (program shooting)
mode will take a whitish picture that is overexposed. First of all, use A (aperture priority
shooting) mode to take the picture. Set the aperture to the medium setting (about F8 or F11)
and leave the shutter speed to the camera. As it is common for the picture to turn out too
bright, adjust the exposure compensation to -1 or -1.5. Check the aperture and exposure
compensation in the [REC VIEW] image and change it if necessary. Noise may occur easily
when shooting at slow shutter speeds. Set [NOISE REDUCT.] to [ON] to reduce the
occurrence of noise.
Using manual focus
For cases when the subject is dark and you cannot focus using AF
(auto focus) or when you cannot focus in time for pictures such as
fireworks, set the focus mode to MF (manual focus) and focus
manually. For night scenes, turn the focus ring of the lens and check
whether you can see the street lights clearly. For fireworks, as long
as the long focus lens is not used, it is okay to adjust to infinite. If you
know the approximate distance, you can also focus on something
that is found at the same distance in advance.
g “P: Program shooting” (P. 30), “A: Aperture priority
shooting” (P. 31), “Sequential shooting/Self-timer/Remote
control” (P. 43), “Focus mode” (P. 47), “Noise reduction” (P. 59),
“Rec view k Checking the picture immediately after
shooting” (P. 75)
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Selecting the appropri
a
3 Shooting functions
Scene mode
When you select a mode to suit the shooting situation, the camera optimizes the settings for
the shooting conditions. Unlike the mode dial’s scene mode, most functions cannot be
changed.
1 Set the mode dial to g.
• The scene menu is displayed.
2 Use ac to select the scene mode.
• The sample image followed by a description of the selected
mode is displayed.
PORTRAIT
1
For taking a
portrait-style
shot.
3 Press the i button.
• The camera enters the shooting stand-by mode.
• To change the setting, press the i button again. The scene menu is displayed.
Types of scene modes
Icon Mode Icon Mode
I 1 PORTRAIT J 11 MACRO
L 2 LANDSCAPE r 12 NATURE MACRO
K 3 LANDSCAPE+PORTRAIT & 13 CANDLE
G 4 NIGHT SCENE * 14 SUNSET
U 5 NIGHT+PORTRAIT ( 15 FIREWORKS
G 6 CHILDREN @ 16 DOCUMENTS
J 7SPORT s 17 PANORAMA
H 8 HIGH KEY g 18 BEACH & SNOW
I 9LOW KEY I 19 UNDER WATER WIDE
q 10 DIS MODE H 20 UNDER WATER MACRO
3
Shooting functions k Selecting the appropriate mode for shooting conditions
EN
29
P: Program shooting
The camera sets the optimum aperture value and
shutter speed automatically according to the subject
brightness.
Set the mode dial to P.
• When the shutter button is half-pressed, the shutter
speed and aperture value are displayed on the
viewfinder. Releasing the shutter button displays the
shutter speed and aperture value on the control panel
screen.
Aperture value
3
Shooting functions k Selecting the appropriate mode for shooting conditions
2007.08.16
Control panel screen display
Aperture values and shutter speeds in the P mode
In the P mode, the camera is programmed such that the aperture value and shutter speed
are automatically selected according to the subject’s brightness as shown below. The
program line diagram varies with the type of lens mounted.
When using the
14 - 42 mm f3.5 - 5.6
zoom lens
(focal length: 14 mm)
Program shift
Program shift (
By turning the control dial in the P mode, you can change the combination of aperture and
shutter speed as illustrated above while maintaining the optimum exposure.
The program shift setting will not be canceled after shooting. To cancel program shift setting,
turn the control dial so that the viewfinder’s or control panel screen’s exposure mode
indication % changes to P or turn off the power. Program shift is not available when you are
using a flash.
%
)
Shutter speed
AF confirmation mark
Viewfinder
Exposure mode
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