Samsung NXF1, NX1 Operating Instructions
USER
MANUAL
ENG This user manual includes detailed usage instructions
for your camera. Please read this manual thoroughly.
Copyright information
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Microsoft Windows and the Windows logo are registered trademarks of
the Microsoft Corporation.
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Mac and Apple App Store are registered trademarks of the Apple
Corporation.
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Google Play Store is a registered trademark of Google, Inc.
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Adobe, the Adobe logo, Photoshop, and Lightroom are either registered
trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United
States and/or other countries.
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SD™, SDHC™, and SDXC™ are registered trademarks of the SD
Association.
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HDMI, the HDMI logo, and the term “High
Denition Multimedia Interface“ are
trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI
Licensing LLC.
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Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. worldwide.
•
Wi-Fi®, the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED logo, and the Wi-Fi logo are registered
trademarks of the Wi-Fi Alliance.
•
ATOMOS is a registered trademark of ATOMOS Pty Ltd.
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Trademarks and trade names used in this manual are the property of
their respective owners.
•
Camera specications or contents of this manual may be changed
without prior notice due to upgrade of camera functions.
•
You are not allowed to reuse or distribute any part of this manual
without prior permission.
•
We recommend using your camera within the country where you
purchase it.
•
Use this camera responsibly and adhere to all laws and regulations
concerning its use.
•
This manual is for NX1 cameras with rmware version 1.40 or later.
PlanetFirst represents Samsung Electronics’ commitment to
sustainable development and social responsibility through
eco-driven business and management activities.
1
Health and safety information
Always comply with the following precautions and usage tips to avoid
dangerous situations and ensure peak performance of your camera.
Warning—situations that could cause injury to yourself
or others
Do not disassemble or attempt to repair your camera.
You can damage the camera and expose yourself to the risk of an electric
shock.
Do not use your camera near ammable or explosive gases
and liquids.
This may cause a re or explosion.
Do not insert ammable materials into the camera or store
these materials near the camera.
This may cause a re or electric shock.
Do not handle your camera with wet hands.
This may result in an electric shock.
Prevent damage to subjects’ eyesight.
Do not use the ash in close proximity (closer than 1 m/3 ft) to people or
animals. If you use the ash too close to your subject’s eyes, this can cause
temporary or permanent eyesight damage.
Keep your camera away from small children and pets.
Keep your camera and all accessories out of the reach of small children
and animals. Small parts may cause choking or serious injury if swallowed.
Moving parts and accessories may present physical dangers as well.
Do not expose the camera to direct sunlight or high
temperatures for an extended period of time.
Prolonged exposure to sunlight or extreme temperatures can cause
permanent damage to your camera’s internal components.
Avoid covering the camera or charger with blankets or clothes.
The camera may overheat, which may distort the camera or cause a re.
Do not handle the power supply cord or the charger during a
thunderstorm.
This may result in an electric shock.
2
Health and safety information
If liquid or foreign objects enter your camera, immediately
disconnect all power sources, such as the battery or charger,
and then contact a Samsung service center.
Comply with any regulations that restrict the use of a camera
in a certain area.
•
Avoid interference with other electronic devices.
•
Turn o the camera when in an aircraft. Your camera can cause
interference with aircraft equipment. Follow all airline regulations and
turn o your camera when directed by airline personnel.
•
Turn o the camera near medical equipment. Your camera can interfere
with medical equipment in hospitals or health care facilities. Follow all
regulations, posted warnings, and directions from medical personnel.
Avoid interference with pacemakers.
Maintain a safe distance between this camera and all pacemakers to
avoid potential interference, as recommended by the manufacturer and
research groups. If you have any reason to suspect that your camera is
interfering with a pacemaker or other medical device, turn o the camera
immediately and contact the manufacturer of the pacemaker or medical
device for guidance.
Caution—situations that could cause damage to your
camera or other equipment
Remove the batteries from your camera when storing it for an
extended period of time.
Installed batteries may leak or corrode over time and cause serious
damage to your camera.
Use only authentic, manufacturer-recommended,
Lithium-ion replacement batteries. Do not damage or heat the
battery.
Inauthentic, damaged, or heated batteries may cause a re or personal
injury.
Use only Samsung-approved batteries, chargers, cables, and
accessories.
•
Using unauthorized batteries, chargers, cables, or accessories can cause
batteries to explode, damage your camera, or cause injury.
•
Samsung is not responsible for damage or injuries caused by
unapproved batteries, chargers, cables, or accessories.
Use the battery only for its intended purpose.
Misusing the battery may cause a re or electric shock.
3
Health and safety information
Do not touch the ash while it res.
The ash is very hot when red and may burn your skin.
When you use the AC charger, turn o the camera before you
disconnect the power to the AC charger.
Failing to do so may result in re or electric shock.
Disconnect the charger from the wall socket when not in use.
Failing to do so may result in re or electric shock.
Do not use a damaged power supply cord, plug, or loose outlet
when you charge batteries.
This may cause a re or electric shock.
Do not allow the AC charger to come in contact with the +/terminals on the battery.
This may cause a re or electric shock.
Do not drop or subject the camera to strong impacts.
Doing so may damage the screen or external or internal components.
Exercise caution when you connect cables and install batteries
and memory cards.
If you force the connectors, improperly connect cables, or improperly
install batteries and memory cards, you can damage ports, connectors,
and accessories.
Keep cards with magnetic strips away from the camera case.
Information stored on the card may be damaged or erased.
Never use a damaged battery or memory card.
This may result in electric shock or camera malfunction or cause a re.
Do not place the camera in or near magnetic elds.
Doing so may cause the camera to malfunction.
Do not use the camera if the screen is damaged.
If the glass or acrylic parts are broken, visit a Samsung service center to
have the camera repaired.
Check that the camera is operating properly before use.
The manufacturer takes no responsibility for any loss of les or damage
that may result from camera malfunction or improper use.
4
Health and safety information
You must plug the small end of the USB cable into your
camera.
If the cable is reversed, it may damage your les. The manufacturer is not
responsible for any loss of data.
Do not expose the lens to direct sunlight.
This may discolor the image sensor or cause it to malfunction.
If the camera overheats, remove the battery and allow it to
cool down.
•
Prolonged usage of the camera may overheat the battery and raise
the internal temperature of the camera. If the camera stops operating,
remove the battery and allow it to cool down.
•
High internal temperatures may result in noise in your photos. This is
normal and does not aect your camera’s overall performance.
Avoid interference with other electronic devices.
Your camera emits radio frequency (RF) signals that may interfere
with unshielded or improperly shielded electronic equipment, such as
pacemakers, hearing aids, medical devices, and other electronic devices in
homes or vehicles. Consult the manufacturers of your electronic devices
to solve any interference problems you experience. To prevent unwanted
interference, use only Samsung-approved devices or accessories.
Use your camera in the normal position.
Avoid contact with your camera’s internal antenna.
Data transference and your responsibilities
•
Data transferred via WLAN can be stolen, so avoid transferring sensitive
data in public areas or on open networks.
•
The camera manufacturer is not liable for any data transfers that infringe
on copyrights, trademarks, intellectual property laws, or public decency
ordinances.
5
Health and safety information
Bluetooth precautions
•
The manufacturer is not responsible for the loss, interception, or misuse
of data sent or received via the Bluetooth feature.
•
Always ensure that you share and receive data with devices that are
trusted and properly secured. If there are obstacles between the devices,
the operating distance may be reduced.
•
Some devices, especially those that are not tested or approved by the
Bluetooth SIG, may be incompatible with your device.
•
Do not use the Bluetooth feature for illegal purposes (for example,
pirating copies of les or illegally tapping communications for
commercial purposes). The manufacturer is not responsible for the
repercussion of illegal use of the Bluetooth feature.
•
Do not connect to Bluetooth speaker, headphones, or other accessories.
Precautions when using the camera
•
Do not expose the camera to water.
•
Avoid removing or changing the lens in dusty areas.
•
Ensure that the covers for the battery chamber, memory card, or
external connector ports are tightly closed.
•
This product is not water or dust proof. Exposure to severe conditions is
not recommended. Take care when opening and closing the covers to
avoid damaging the rubber seal.
6
Indications used in this manual
Icons used in this manual
Icon Function
Additional information
Safety warnings and precautions
[ ]
( )
Camera buttons. For example, [Shutter] represents the
shutter button.
Page number of related information
The order of options or menus you must select to perform
a step; for example: Select b
ĺ
select b, and then Quality).
Annotation
*
ĺ Quality (represents
Mode indications
Mode Indication
Auto
Program
Aperture Priority
Shutter Priority
Manual
Custom1
Custom2
Smart
t
P
A
S
M
T
U
s
7
Contents
Tips
Concepts in Photography
Shooting postures....................................................................................... 14
Holding the camera ..................................................................................................... 14
Standing photography ............................................................................................... 14
Crouching photography ............................................................................................ 15
Using the display ..........................................................................................................15
Low-angle shot .............................................................................................................. 16
High-angle shot .............................................................................................................16
Aperture ........................................................................................................ 17
Aperture value and the depth of eld .................................................................. 18
Shutter speed ............................................................................................... 19
ISO sensitivity .............................................................................................. 20
How the aperture setting, shutter speed, and ISO sensitivity control
exposure ....................................................................................................... 21
Correlation between focal length, angle, and perspective ................ 22
Depth of eld ............................................................................................... 23
What controls out-of-focus eects? ....................................................................... 23
DOF preview ................................................................................................................... 25
Composition ................................................................................................. 25
Rule of Thirds .................................................................................................................. 25
Photos with two subjects ..........................................................................................26
Flash ............................................................................................................... 27
Flash guide number ..................................................................................................... 27
Bounce Photography .................................................................................................. 28
Chapter 1
My Camera
Getting started ............................................................................................ 30
Unpacking.................................................................................................................... 30
Camera layout .............................................................................................. 31
Using the EVF button ............................................................................................... 36
Inserting the battery and memory card ................................................. 37
Inserting the battery ................................................................................................ 37
Inserting a memory card ........................................................................................ 37
Removing the battery and memory card ......................................................... 38
Using the memory card adapter .......................................................................... 38
Charging the battery and turning on your camera .............................. 39
Charging the battery................................................................................................ 39
Turning on your camera ......................................................................................... 40
Performing the initial setup ...................................................................... 41
Selecting functions (options) ................................................................... 43
Using buttons and dials .......................................................................................... 43
Using custom buttons and dials ............................................................................ 43
Selecting by touch .................................................................................................... 44
Using m ................................................................................................................. 45
E.g. Selecting the photo size in P mode.............................................................. 45
Using the smart panel ............................................................................................. 46
E.g. Adjust the exposure value in P mode .......................................................... 46
Using iFn ....................................................................................................................... 48
8
Contents
Display icons ................................................................................................ 50
In Shooting mode ..................................................................................................... 50
Capturing photos ........................................................................................................ 50
Recording videos ......................................................................................................... 52
About the level gauge ............................................................................................... 53
In Playback mode ...................................................................................................... 54
Viewing photos ............................................................................................................ 54
Playing videos ............................................................................................................... 54
Changing the information displayed ................................................................. 55
Viewing the status display window .................................................................... 56
Capturing photos or recording videos ................................................................ 56
Connecting to a computer ....................................................................................... 56
Charging batteries ....................................................................................................... 56
Viewing the notication panel ............................................................................. 57
Lenses ............................................................................................................ 58
Lens layout ................................................................................................................... 58
Locking or unlocking the lens ................................................................................. 59
Using the Custom Focus Range Limiter Function ............................................ 61
Lens markings ............................................................................................................ 62
Accessories ................................................................................................... 63
External ash layout ................................................................................................. 63
Connecting the external ash ................................................................................. 65
Vertical grip layout .................................................................................................... 66
Inserting the battery................................................................................................... 67
Attaching to the camera ........................................................................................... 67
Battery charger .......................................................................................................... 69
Charging the battery .................................................................................................. 69
Shooting modes .......................................................................................... 70
t Auto mode ......................................................................................................... 70
P Program mode ....................................................................................................... 72
Program Shift ................................................................................................................ 73
Minimum shutter speed ............................................................................................ 73
A Aperture Priority mode...................................................................................... 74
S Shutter Priority mode .......................................................................................... 75
M Manual mode........................................................................................................ 76
Using the Bulb function ............................................................................................ 76
T U Custom mode ................................................................................................ 77
Saving custom modes ................................................................................................ 77
Downloading custom modes .................................................................................. 78
Selecting custom modes .......................................................................................... 78
Deleting custom modes ............................................................................................ 78
s Smart mode .......................................................................................................... 79
Capturing panoramic photos .................................................................................. 81
Using the Samsung Auto Shot mode ................................................................... 82
Recording a video ..................................................................................................... 84
3D mode ....................................................................................................................... 86
Available functions by shooting mode ............................................................. 87
Chapter 2
Shooting Functions
Size and Resolution .................................................................................... 89
Photo size ..................................................................................................................... 89
Quality ........................................................................................................................... 90
ISO sensitivity .............................................................................................. 91
Customizing ISO settings .......................................................................................... 92
9
Contents
OLED Color ................................................................................................... 93
White Balance .............................................................................................. 94
Customizing preset White Balance options ....................................................... 95
Picture Wizard (photo styles) .................................................................... 96
Smart Filter ................................................................................................... 97
AF mode ........................................................................................................ 98
Single AF ....................................................................................................................... 99
Continuous AF ............................................................................................................ 99
Active AF.................................................................................................................... 100
Manual focus ............................................................................................................ 100
AF area ......................................................................................................... 101
Selection AF ............................................................................................................. 101
Saving Selection AF position ................................................................................. 102
Zone AF ...................................................................................................................... 102
Multi AF ...................................................................................................................... 102
Face Detection AF .................................................................................................. 103
Self-Portrait AF ........................................................................................................ 103
Touch AF ...................................................................................................... 104
Touch AF .................................................................................................................... 104
AF Point ...................................................................................................................... 104
Tracking AF ............................................................................................................... 104
One touch shot ....................................................................................................... 105
Focus assist ................................................................................................. 106
MF Assist .................................................................................................................... 106
DMF (Direct Manual Focus) ................................................................................ 107
Setting MF & DMF responsiveness ...................................................................... 107
AF Release Priority ................................................................................................. 107
Focus Peaking .......................................................................................................... 108
Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) ........................................................... 109
Drive (shooting method) ......................................................................... 110
Single .......................................................................................................................... 111
Continuous ............................................................................................................... 111
Timer ........................................................................................................................... 112
Auto Exposure Bracketing (AE Bracket) .......................................................... 112
White Balance Bracketing (WB Bracket) ......................................................... 113
Picture Wizard Bracketing (P Wiz Bracket) ..................................................... 113
Depth Bracketing ................................................................................................... 114
Bracketing settings ................................................................................................... 114
Interval Capture ......................................................................................... 115
Flash ............................................................................................................. 116
Reducing the red-eye eect ............................................................................... 117
Using the built-in ash ......................................................................................... 117
Adjusting the ash intensity .............................................................................. 118
Flash settings ........................................................................................................... 119
Setting external ash ............................................................................................... 119
Setting wireless sync for internal or external ash ........................................ 120
Locking the ash intensity .................................................................................. 121
Metering ...................................................................................................... 122
Multi ............................................................................................................................ 122
Center-weighted .................................................................................................... 123
Spot ............................................................................................................................. 123
Measuring the exposure value of the focus area ......................................... 124
Dynamic Range ......................................................................................... 125
Exposure compensation .......................................................................... 126
Using Framing Mode ................................................................................................ 126
Viewing the overexposure guide ......................................................................... 127
Using the brightness adjustment guide ........................................................... 127
Exposure/Focus lock ................................................................................. 128
10
Contents
Exposure/Focus separation ..................................................................... 129
Video functions ......................................................................................... 130
Movie size.................................................................................................................. 130
When Video Out is set to NTSC ............................................................................. 130
When Video Out is set to PAL ................................................................................ 131
Movie quality ........................................................................................................... 131
Bit rates for movie sizes ........................................................................................... 132
Fast / Slow Movie .................................................................................................... 133
Gamma Control....................................................................................................... 133
Adjusting the settings .............................................................................................. 134
Master Black Level .................................................................................................. 134
Luminance Level ..................................................................................................... 134
AF Responsiveness ................................................................................................ 134
AF Shift Speed ......................................................................................................... 135
DIS (Anti-Shake) ...................................................................................................... 135
Fader ........................................................................................................................... 136
Voice ............................................................................................................................ 136
Wind Cut .................................................................................................................... 136
Mic Level .................................................................................................................... 137
Auto Mic Control .................................................................................................... 137
Smart Range+ .......................................................................................................... 137
Time Code (HDMI) .................................................................................................. 138
Chapter 3
Playback/Editing
Searching and managing les ................................................................ 140
Viewing photos ....................................................................................................... 140
Viewing image thumbnails ................................................................................. 140
Viewing les by category .................................................................................... 141
Viewing continuous shots ................................................................................... 142
Protecting les ........................................................................................................ 143
Lock/Unlock all les .................................................................................................. 143
Deleting les ............................................................................................................ 144
Deleting a single le ................................................................................................. 144
Deleting multiple les .............................................................................................. 144
Deleting all les .......................................................................................................... 144
Viewing photos .......................................................................................... 145
Enlarging a photo .................................................................................................. 145
Viewing a slide show ............................................................................................. 146
Viewing the overexposure guide ..................................................................... 147
Viewing interval shots .......................................................................................... 147
Sorting les............................................................................................................... 147
Auto rotating ........................................................................................................... 147
Converting to JPEG ................................................................................................ 147
Playing videos ............................................................................................ 148
Scanning backward or forward ......................................................................... 148
Adjusting the brightness of a video ................................................................ 149
Adjusting the volume of a video ...................................................................... 149
Trimming a video during playback .................................................................. 150
Capturing an image during playback ............................................................. 150
Editing photos ........................................................................................... 151
Cropping a photo ................................................................................................... 151
Rotating a photo .................................................................................................... 152
Resizing photos....................................................................................................... 152
Adjusting your photos .......................................................................................... 153
Retouching faces .................................................................................................... 153
Applying Smart Filter eects .............................................................................. 154
11
Contents
Chapter 4
Connecting & Transferring
Connecting to a smart phone ................................................................. 156
Using the NFC Feature .......................................................................................... 156
Using NFC features in Shooting mode ............................................................... 156
Using NFC features in Playback mode (Photo Beam) ................................... 156
Using the GPS Geo Tagging Feature................................................................ 156
Sending les to a smart phone ......................................................................... 157
Controlling the camera remotely with a smart phone ............................. 159
Using a smart phone as a remote shutter release ...................................... 161
Saving les to a smart phone automatically ................................................ 162
Downloading custom modes via a smart phone ....................................... 164
Sending photos via email ........................................................................ 165
Connecting to a WLAN ......................................................................................... 165
Setting network options ......................................................................................... 166
Manually setting the IP address ........................................................................... 166
Using the login browser....................................................................................... 167
Network connection tips ..................................................................................... 168
Entering text ............................................................................................................ 169
Sending photos via email .................................................................................... 170
Storing a sender’s information.............................................................................. 171
Setting an email password ..................................................................................... 172
Changing the email password .............................................................................. 173
Viewing photos or videos on a TV ......................................................... 174
Connecting wirelessly .......................................................................................... 174
Viewing les after Bluetooth registration ......................................................... 176
Connecting via cable ............................................................................................ 177
Viewing les on a TV ................................................................................................. 177
Viewing les on a 3D TV .......................................................................................... 178
Connecting to a computer ...................................................................... 179
Using Auto Backup for photos or videos ....................................................... 179
Installing the program for Auto Backup on your PC ..................................... 179
Using the Auto Backup feature ............................................................................. 179
Connecting the camera as a removable disk ............................................... 181
Transferring les to your Windows OS computer .......................................... 181
Disconnecting the camera (for Windows 7) ..................................................... 182
Transferring les to your Mac OS ......................................................................... 183
Chapter 5
Camera settings menu
User settings ............................................................................................... 185
Manage Custom Mode ......................................................................................... 185
Noise Reduction ..................................................................................................... 185
Color Space ............................................................................................................... 186
Distortion Correct .................................................................................................. 187
User Display .............................................................................................................. 187
Grid Line .................................................................................................................... 187
Center Marker .......................................................................................................... 188
Key Mapping ............................................................................................................ 188
AEL .................................................................................................................................. 188
AF ON ............................................................................................................................. 189
Custom Wheel ............................................................................................................. 190
Command Dial ............................................................................................................ 190
Command Dial Direction ........................................................................................ 190
Video Recording / MOBILE ..................................................................................... 191
AF ON / AEL .................................................................................................................. 191
Preview button/Navigation button/Delete button ....................................... 192
12
Contents
iFn Customizing ...................................................................................................... 193
Lens Button Speed Settings ............................................................................... 193
Touch Operation ..................................................................................................... 193
AF Lamp ..................................................................................................................... 193
E-Shutter .................................................................................................................... 194
MobileLink/NFC Image Size ............................................................................... 194
Setting ......................................................................................................... 195
Chapter 6
Appendix
Error messages .......................................................................................... 202
Maintaining the camera........................................................................... 203
Cleaning the camera ............................................................................................. 203
Camera lens and display ......................................................................................... 203
Image sensor ............................................................................................................... 203
Camera body ............................................................................................................... 203
Using or storing the camera ............................................................................... 204
Inappropriate places to use or store the camera ........................................... 204
Using on beaches or shores ................................................................................... 204
Storing for extended period of time ................................................................... 204
Using the camera with caution in the humid environments ..................... 205
Other precautions ..................................................................................................... 205
About memory cards ............................................................................................ 206
Supported memory cards ...................................................................................... 206
Memory card capacity ............................................................................................. 207
Cautions when using memory cards .................................................................. 209
About the battery .................................................................................................. 210
Battery specications ............................................................................................... 210
Battery life .................................................................................................................... 211
Low battery message ............................................................................................... 211
Notes about using the battery .............................................................................. 211
Battery precautions ................................................................................................... 212
Notes about charging the battery ....................................................................... 212
Notes about charging with a computer connected...................................... 213
Handle and dispose of batteries and chargers with care ............................ 213
Using programs on a PC........................................................................... 214
Installing i-Launcher or i-Launcher Web ........................................................ 214
Using i-Launcher or i-Launcher Web ............................................................... 216
Opening i-Launcher .................................................................................................. 216
Available programs ................................................................................................... 216
Requirements .............................................................................................................. 217
Installing Adobe Photoshop Lightroom ........................................................ 218
Using Adobe Photoshop Lightroom ............................................................... 218
Updating the rmware ............................................................................. 219
Connecting via USB cable ................................................................................... 219
Connecting via Wi-Fi ............................................................................................. 220
Before contacting a service center ........................................................ 221
Camera specications .............................................................................. 224
Glossary ....................................................................................................... 229
Optional accessories ................................................................................. 235
Index ............................................................................................................ 236
13
Concepts in Photography
Shooting postures
A correct posture for stabilizing the camera is necessary for taking a good
photo. Even if you hold a camera correctly, the wrong posture can cause
the camera to shake. Stand up straight and remain still to maintain a
steady base for your camera. When shooting with a slow shutter speed,
hold your breath to minimize body movement.
Holding the camera
Hold the camera with your right hand and place your right index nger on
the shutter button. Place your left hand under the lens for support.
Standing photography
Compose your shot, stand up straight with your feet shoulder-length
apart, and keep your elbows pointed down.
14
Concepts in Photography
Crouching photography
Compose your shot, crouch with one knee touching the ground, and keep
a straight posture.
Using the display
To take photos at high or low angles, tilt the display up or down. You can
tilt the display up to 90° upwards (
) or 45° downwards ( ).
•
Keep the display closed ( ) when the camera is not in use.
•
Tilt the display only within the angle allowed. Failing to do so may damage
your camera.
15
Concepts in Photography
Low-angle shot
A low-angle shot is a shot from a camera positioned below your eyeline,
looking up the subject.
High-angle shot
A high-angle shot is a shot from a camera positioned above your eyeline,
looking down on the subject.
16
Concepts in Photography
Aperture
The aperture is one of the three factors that determine the exposure. The
aperture housing contains thin, metal plates that open and close to let
light through the aperture and into the camera. The size of the aperture
is related to the amount of light: a larger aperture allows more light and a
smaller aperture allows less light.
Aperture sizes
Minimum aperture Medium aperture Maximum aperture
The size of the aperture is represented by a value known as an “F-number“.
The f-number represents the focal length divided by the diameter of the
lens. For example, if a lens with a 50 mm focal length has an f-number of
F2, the diameter of the aperture is 25 mm. (50 mm/25 mm = F2)
The smaller the f-number, the greater the size of the aperture.
The size of the aperture opening is dened as the Exposure Value (EV).
Increasing the Exposure Value (+1 EV) means the amount of light doubles.
Decreasing the Exposure Value (-1 EV) means the amount of light halves.
You can also use the exposure compensation feature to ne-tune the
amount of light by subdividing exposure values into 1/2, 1/3 EV, and so on.
+1 EV
F1.4 F2 F2.8 F4 F5.6 F8
-1 EV
Exposure Value Steps
Aperture opened slightly Aperture opened wide
17
Concepts in Photography
Aperture value and the depth of eld
You can blur or sharpen the background of a photo by changing the size
of the aperture. A large aperture gives your photos a shallow depth of
eld (DOF). Objects immediately in front of or behind your subject will
be blurred, while the subject will be in focus. A small aperture gives your
photos a deep depth of eld. Objects far in front or far behind your subject
and your subject will be in focus.
A photo with a deep DOF A photo with a shallow DOF
The aperture housing contains several blades. These blades move together and
control the amount of light passing through the center of the aperture. The
number of blades also aects the shape of light when shooting night scenes. If
an aperture has an even number of blades, light divides into an equal number
of sections. If the number of blades is odd, the number of sections is double the
number of blades.
For example, an aperture with 8 blades divides light into 8 sections and an
aperture with 7 blades into 14 sections.
7 blades 8 blades
18
Concepts in Photography
Shutter speed
Shutter speed refers to the amount of time it takes to open and close the
shutter. It controls the amount of light which passes through the aperture
before it reaches the image sensor.
Shutter speeds are measured in seconds and parts of a second. On
many cameras, the shutter speeds are approximately halved with each
succeeding setting - 1 s, 1/2 s, 1/4 s, 1/8 s, 1/15 s, etc. Like successive
aperture settings, each successive shutter speed setting lets in about half
the amount of light. Consequently, each successive shutter speed setting
equals an EV (Exposure Value) change of about 1 EV.
+1 EV
Exposure
-1 EV
Therefore, the faster the shutter speed, the less light will be let in. Likewise,
the slower the shutter speed, the more light will be let in.
A slow shutter speed allows more light into the camera to make photos
brighter. However, because the shutter is open longer, moving subjects
appear blurred. A fast shutter speed allows less light in to make photos
darker. However, because the shutter is open for a shorter time, moving
subjects look sharper and more focused.
1 s 1/250 s
1 s 1/2 s 1/4 s 1/8 s 1/15 s 1/30 s
Shutter speed
19
Concepts in Photography
ISO sensitivity
The exposure of an image is determined by the sensitivity of the camera.
This sensitivity is based on international lm standards, known as ISO
standards. On digital cameras, this sensitivity rating is used to represent
the sensitivity of the digital mechanism that captures the image.
ISO sensitivity doubles as the number doubles. For example, an
ISO 200 setting is capable of capturing images at twice the speed of an
ISO 100 setting. However, higher ISO settings can result in “noise“—small
specks, spots, and other phenomena in a photo that give the shot a noisy
or dirty appearance. As a general rule, it is best to use a low ISO setting
to prevent noise in your photos, unless you are shooting in darkened
environments or at night.
Because a low ISO sensitivity means the camera will be less sensitive to
light, you need more light to have an optimal exposure. When using a low
ISO sensitivity, open the aperture more or reduce the shutter speed to
allow more light to enter the camera. For example, on a sunny day when
light is abundant, a low ISO sensitivity does not require a slow shutter
speed. However, in a dark place or at night, a low ISO sensitivity will
result in a blurry photo. Therefore, it is recommended to increase the ISO
sensitivity by a moderate amount.
A photo captured with a tripod and high
ISO sensitivity
A blurred photo with a low ISO sensitivity
Changes in the quality and brightness according to ISO sensitivity
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Concepts in Photography
How the aperture setting, shutter speed, and ISO sensitivity control exposure
The aperture setting, shutter speed, and ISO sensitivity are closely
interconnected in photography. The aperture setting controls the opening
that regulates the light that enters the camera, while the shutter speed
determines the length of time that light is allowed to enter. ISO sensitivity
determines the speed at which the lm reacts to light. Together, these
three aspects are described as the triangle of exposure.
A change in shutter speed, aperture value, or ISO sensitivity can be oset
by adjustments to the others to maintain the amount of light. The results,
however, change according to the settings. For example, shutter speed is
useful in expressing movement, aperture can control the depth of eld,
and ISO sensitivity can control the graininess of a photo.
Settings Results
Wide aperture
Aperture
value
= more light
Narrow aperture
= less light
Shutter speed
ISO sensitivity
Settings Results
Fast speed
= less light
Slow speed
= more light
Fast = still
Slow = blurry
High sensitivity
= more sensitive to light
Low sensitivity
= less sensitive to light
High = more grainy
Low = less grainy
Wide = shallow depth of eld
Narrow = deep depth of eld
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Concepts in Photography
Correlation between focal length, angle, and perspective
Focal length, which is measured in millimeters, is the distance between
the middle of the lens to its focal point. It aects the angle and perspective
of captured images. A short focal length translates into a wide angle,
which allows you to capture a wide shot. A long focal length translates
into a narrow angle, which allows you to capture telephoto shots.
Short focal length
wide-angle lens
wide shot
wide angle
Long focal length
telephoto lens
telephoto shot
narrow angle
Look at these photos below and compare the changes.
16 mm angle 50 mm angle 200 mm angle
Normally, a lens with a wide angle is suitable for shooting landscapes and a lens
with a narrow angle is recommended for shooting sports events or portraits.
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Concepts in Photography
Depth of eld
The depth of eld (DOF) is the focused area around the subject.
In general, the DOF can be shallow or deep. In photos with a shallow DOF,
the subject is sharply focused, the background is blurred and the subject
stands out. In contrast, photos with a deep DOF have all the elements of
the photo in sharp focus.
You can create a photo with a shallow DOF by using a telescopic lens or by
selecting a low aperture value. You can create a photo with a deep DOF by
using a wide angle lens or by selecting a high aperture value.
What controls out-of-focus eects?
DOF depends on the aperture value
A low aperture value indicates that the aperture has a wide opening. The
wider the aperture, the shallower the DOF becomes. Conversely, a high
aperture value indicates that the aperture has a narrow opening. The
narrower the aperture, the deeper the DOF becomes.
50 mm F5.7 50 mm F22
Shallow Depth of Field Deep Depth of Field
23
Concepts in Photography
DOF depends on focal length
The longer the focal length, the shallower the DOF. A telescopic lens with
a longer focal length will capture a photo with a shallow DOF better than a
lens with a shorter focal length.
A photo captured with an 16 mm wide-angle lens
DOF depends on the distance between the subject and the
camera
The shorter the distance between the subject and the camera, the
shallower the DOF is. Therefore, taking a photo close to a subject generally
results in a photo with a shallow DOF.
A photo captured with a 100 mm telescope lens
A photo captured with a 100 mm telescope lens
A photo captured close to the subject
24
Concepts in Photography
DOF preview
You can press the Preview button to get an idea of what your shot will look
like before shooting. The camera adjusts the aperture to the predened
settings and shows the results on the screen. Set the function of the
Preview button to Optical Preview. (p. 192)
Composition
The way that objects are arranged in a photo is referred to as its
composition. A good composition emphasizes the photo’s subjects
by drawing attention to them and by balancing them with the other
elements in the photo.
Following the rule of thirds is one method that usually results in good
compositions.
Rule of Thirds
To use the rule of thirds, divide the image into a 3x3 pattern of equal
rectangles.
To compose photos that best emphasize the subject, make sure the
subject is located at one of the corners of the center rectangle.
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Concepts in Photography
Using the rule of thirds will create photos with stable and compelling
compositions. Below are a few examples.
Photos with two subjects
If your subject is in one corner of the photo, it creates an unbalanced
composition. You can stabilize the photo by capturing a second subject in
the opposite corner to balance the weight of the photo.
Subject 2
Subject 1
Unstable Stable
Subject 1
When taking landscape photos, centering the horizon will create an
unbalanced eect. Give more weight to the photo by moving the horizon
up or down.
Subject 1
Subject 2
Subject 1
Subject 2
Subject 2
Unstable Stable
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Concepts in Photography
Flash
Light is one of the most important components in photography. However,
you will not always have enough of light in all situations. Making use of a
ash allows you to compensate for the lack of light and create a variety of
eects.
The ash, also known as a strobe or speed light, provides adequate
exposure in low-light conditions. It is also useful in light-abundant
situations. For example, you can use the ash to provide light when a
subject is in shadow or use it to capture clearly both the subject and the
background under backlit conditions.
Back lit subjects without ash Back lit subjects with ash
Flash guide number
The model number of a ash refers to the ash’s power, and the maximum
amount of light created is represented by a value known as the “guide
number“. A ash with a higher guide number emits a larger amount
of light than a ash with a lower guide number. The guide number is
calculated by multiplying the distance from the ash to the subject by the
aperture value when the ISO sensitivity is set to 100.
Guide number = Flash to Subject Distance X Aperture value
Aperture value = Guide number/Flash to Subject Distance
Flash to Subject Distance = Guide number/Aperture value
If you know the ash’s guide number, you can estimate an appropriate
ash-to-subject distance when setting the ash manually. For example, if a
ash has a guide number of GN 20 and is 4 meters away from the subject,
the optimal aperture value is F5.0.
27
Concepts in Photography
Bounce Photography
Bounce photography refers to the method of bouncing light o of the
ceiling or walls so that the light spreads evenly over the subject. Normally,
photos captured with the ash may appear unnatural and cast shadows.
Subjects in photos captured with bounce photography cast no shadows
and look smooth due to evenly spread light.
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Chapter 1
My Camera
Learn about your camera’s layout, display icons, lens, optional accessories, and basic functions.
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