DIGITAL CAMERA User's Manual En
Where to Find It Find what you’re looking for from: i The Q&A Index ➜ pp. iv–ix Know what you want to do but don’t know the function name? Find it from the “question and answer” index. i The Table of Contents ➜ pp. x–xvii ➜ pp. 21–22 Find items by function or menu name. i The Quick Start Guide A brief guide for those who want to get started taking pictures right away. i The Index ➜ pp. 416–421 ➜ pp. 388–395 Search by key word.
Package Contents Be sure all items listed here were included with your camera. Memory cards are sold separately. • D300 digital camera (pg. 3) • Body cap (pp. 34, 367) • BM-8 LCD monitor cover (pg. 19) • DK-5 eyepiece cap (pg. 20) • EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion battery with terminal cover (pp. 30, 32) • MH-18a quick charger with power cable (pg. 30) • UC-E4 USB cable (pp. 224, 232) • EG-D100 video cable (pg. 242) • AN-D300 strap (pg.
Symbols and Conventions To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions are used: D This icon marks cautions; information that should be read before use to prevent damage to the camera. A This icon marks notes; information that should be read before using the camera. Menu items, options, and messages displayed in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]). A Trademark Information Macintosh, Mac OS, and QuickTime are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.
X Introduction s Tutorial d Image Recording Options N Focus k Release Mode S ISO Sensitivity Z Exposure r White Balance J Image Enhancement l Flash Photography t Other Shooting Options I More About Playback Q Connections U Menu Guide n Technical Notes iii
Q&A Index Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index.
Question How do I set the clock? How do I set the clock for daylight savings time? How do I change time zones when I travel? How do I adjust monitor brightness for menus or playback? How do I restore default settings? How do I restore shooting menu defaults? How do I restore Custom Setting defaults? How do I change the self-timer delay? How do I turn the speaker off? Can I reverse the electronic analog exposure display? Can I display the menus in a different language? Can I save menu settings for use on a d
Question Key phrase How do I get more information about the Battery info battery? How do I keep the file number from being reset when I insert a new memory File number sequence card? How do I reset file numbering to zero? How do I clean the camera or lens? Cleaning the camera See page 322 283 370 ❚❚ Taking Photographs Question How many more shots can I take with this card? How do I take bigger photographs? How can I get more photos on the memory card? Can I control how the camera focuses? How do I take a
Question Can I set both shutter speed and aperture manually? Can I make photos brighter or darker? How do I make a time exposure? Can I vary exposure or flash level automatically over a series of photos? Can I create multiple copies of a photo using different white balance settings? How do I adjust white balance? Can I take pictures with a flash? How can I reduce “red-eye”? How can I record multiple shots as a single photograph? Can I pick the standard exposure level? How can I reduce blur? Can the flash be
Question How do I get rid of an unwanted photo? Can I delete several photos at once? Can I zoom in on pictures to make sure they’re in focus? Can I protect photos from accidental deletion? Can I hide selected photos? How do I tell if parts of my photos may be overexposed? Key phrase Deleting individual photos Delete See page 222 248 Playback zoom 220 Protect 221 Hide image Display mode: highlights Display mode: focus How do I tell where the camera focused? point Can I view photos as they are taken? I
❚❚ Viewing or Printing Photographs on Other Devices Question Key phrase Can I view my photos on TV? Television playback Can I view my photos in High Definition? HDMI Connecting to a How do I copy photos to my computer? computer How do I print photographs? Printing photographs Can I print photos without a computer? Printing via USB Can I print the date on my photographs? Time stamp How do I order professional prints? Print set (DPOF) See page 242 244 224 230 231 234 240 ❚❚ Optional Accessories Question Wha
Table of Contents Q&A Index ................................................................................................iv For Your Safety .................................................................................. xviii Notices.....................................................................................................xxi Introduction 1 Overview....................................................................................................2 Getting to Know the Camera..............
Focus 61 Focus Mode ........................................................................................... 62 AF-Area Mode....................................................................................... 64 Focus Point Selection......................................................................... 66 Focus Lock.............................................................................................. 68 Manual Focus..........................................................................
White Balance 127 White Balance Options ....................................................................128 Fine-Tuning White Balance............................................................131 Choosing a Color Temperature ....................................................135 Preset Manual .....................................................................................136 Image Enhancement 147 Picture Controls................................................................................
More About Playback 205 Full-Frame Playback .........................................................................206 Photo Information.............................................................................208 Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback .....................218 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom........................................220 Protecting Photographs from Deletion.....................................221 Deleting Individual Photographs ..................................
C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options...............................254 Shooting Menu Bank .............................................................. 255 Reset Shooting Menu ............................................................. 257 Active Folder.............................................................................. 258 File Naming ................................................................................ 260 Image Quality .............................................................
b4: Easy Exposure Compensation ......................................276 b5: Center-Weighted Area ....................................................277 b6: Fine Tune Optimal Exposure.........................................277 c: Timers/AE Lock ..........................................................................279 c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L .........................................279 c2: Auto Meter-off Delay........................................................279 c3: Self-Timer Delay .....
B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup...............................................312 Format Memory Card ............................................................. 313 LCD Brightness.......................................................................... 313 Clean Image Sensor................................................................. 314 Lock Mirror up for Cleaning ................................................. 314 Video Mode.........................................................................
Technical Notes 349 Compatible Lenses ...........................................................................350 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)..............................................357 Other Accessories..............................................................................364 Caring for the Camera......................................................................370 Storage..............................................................................................370 Cleaning .
For Your Safety To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others, read the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equipment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them. The consequences that could result from failure to observe the precautions listed in this section are indicated by the following symbol: icon marks warnings. To prevent possible injury, read all A This warnings before using this Nikon product.
A Do not use in the presence of flammable gas Do not use electronic equipment in the presence of flammable gas, as this could result in explosion or fire. A Keep out of reach of children Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury. A Do not place the strap around the neck of an infant or child Placing the camera strap around the neck of an infant or child could result in strangulation. A Observe proper precautions when handling batteries Batteries may leak or explode if improperly handled.
A Observe proper precautions when A Use appropriate cables handling the quick charger When connecting cables to the • Keep dry. Failure to observe this input and output jacks, use only precaution could result in fire or the cables provided or sold by electric shock. Nikon for the purpose to maintain • Dust on or near the metal parts of compliance with product the plug should be removed with regulations. a dry cloth. Continued use could A CD-ROMs result in fire.
Notices • No part of the manuals included with this • Nikon will not be held liable for any product may be reproduced, transmitted, damages resulting from the use of this transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, product. or translated into any language in any • While every effort has been made to form, by any means, without Nikon’s prior ensure that the information in these written permission.
Notices for Customers in Canada CAUTION This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. ATTENTION Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada. Symbol for Separate Collection in European Countries This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately. The following apply only to users in European countries: • This product is designated for separate collection at an appropriate collection point. Do not dispose of as household waste.
Disposing of Data Storage Devices Please note that deleting images or formatting memory cards or other data storage devices does not completely erase the original image data. Deleted files can sometimes be recovered from discarded storage devices using commercially available software, potentially resulting in the malicious use of personal image data. Ensuring the privacy of such data is the user’s responsibility.
A Before Taking Important Pictures Before taking pictures on important occasions (such as at weddings or before taking the camera on a trip), take a test shot to ensure that the camera is functioning normally. Nikon will not be held liable for damages or lost profits that may result from product malfunction.
XIntroduction X This chapter covers information you will need to know before using the camera, including the names of camera parts. Overview.............................................................................. pg. 2 Getting to Know the Camera ........................................... pg. 3 Camera Body ....................................................................................... pg. 3 The Control Panel .............................................................................. pg.
Overview X Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. Please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly to get the most from the camera, and keep them where they will be read by all those who use the product. D Use Only Nikon Brand Accessories Only Nikon brand accessories certified by Nikon specifically for use with your Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within its operational and safety requirements.
Getting to Know the Camera Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with camera controls and displays. You may find it helpful to bookmark this section and refer to it as you read through the rest of the manual. X Camera Body 1 8 2 10 9 3 4 5 11 12 6 13 7 14 1 Release mode dial.......................75 2 Release mode dial lock release....................................75 3 QUAL (image quality/size) button ......................................57, 60 Two-button reset button ......
Camera Body (Continued) 1 X 2 3 4 5 8 6 7 9 10 13 14 11 12 15 16 1 Built-in flash ............................... 173 2 Flash pop-up button............... 173 3 M (flash mode) button ............ 173 Y (flash compensation) button .......................................... 178 4 Flash sync terminal cover ............................................. 363 5 Ten-pin remote terminal cover ....................................201, 368 6 Flash sync terminal.................. 363 7 Ten-pin remote terminal ..
8 9 1 10 X 2 3 4 5 11 6 7 12 1 AF-assist illuminator ............... 273 8 CPU contacts Self-timer lamp ............................92 9 Mounting index .......................... 34 Red-eye reduction lamp........ 176 10 Lens mount................................... 72 2 Sub-command dial.....................14 11 Tripod socket 3 Depth-of-field preview 12 Body cap ......................................367 button .................................105, 306 4 Fn button .........
Camera Body (Continued) X 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 Viewfinder eyepiece...................43 7 2 DK-23 viewfinder eyepiece cup.................................20 3 O (delete) button............... 54, 222 8 Q (format) button.....................41 4 K (playback) button ....... 53, 206 9 5 Monitor.......................... 53, 79, 206 6 G (menu) button.......... 24, 245 10 6 L (protect) button ................221 ? (help) button ............................. 29 R (info) button ...........................
1 X 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 Diopter adjustment control ....43 7 Focus selector lock..................... 66 2 Metering selector..................... 103 8 Memory card slot cover............ 39 3 A (AE/AF lock) 9 Memory card access button ............................ 68, 69, 307 lamp ......................................... 40, 52 4 B (AF-ON) button ..........63, 86 10 AF-area mode selector ............. 64 5 Main command dial ...................14 11 Card slot cover latch ..................
The Control Panel 1 2 3 4 X 17 16 15 14 13 5 6 12 11 7 10 8 9 1 Color temperature indicator ...... 135 2 Shutter speed ......................108, 111 7 Image quality ...................................57 8 Auto-area AF indicator..................64 Exposure compensation value................................................. 116 Flash compensation value ....... 178 ISO sensitivity...................................96 White balance fine-tuning ....... 132 Color temperature.......................
18 31 19 30 29 20 21 22 23 28 27 26 24 25 X 14 Flash mode................................. 173 23 Image comment indicator........ 317 15 “Beep” indicator ........................... 281 16 Aperture (f-number)..........109, 111 Aperture (number of stops)........................ 353 Exposure and flash bracketing increment ................ 120 WB bracketing increment......... 124 Number of shots per interval ............................................ 194 Maximum aperture (non-CPU lenses) ...........
The Viewfinder Display 1 2 X 3 4 5 6 7 16 17 10 8 9 18 10 11 12 19 20 13 14 15 21
1 Framing grid (displayed when [On] is selected for Custom Setting d2) ................. 281 2 Focus points........................ 66, 272 3 AF area brackets ...................43, 84 4 Battery indicator................ 44, 282 (display can be turned off with Custom Setting d3) 5 Focus indicator......................51, 72 6 Metering...................................... 102 7 Autoexposure (AE) lock ......... 114 8 Shutter speed ...................108, 111 9 Aperture (f-number) ......
The Shooting Information Display X Shooting information, including shutter speed, aperture, the number of exposures remaining, buffer capacity, and AF-area mode, is displayed in the monitor when the R button is pressed. To clear shooting R button information from the monitor, press the R button again or press the shutter-release button halfway. At default settings, the monitor will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for about 20 seconds.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Exposure mode................................. 104 Flexible program indicator ........... 107 Flash sync indicator......................... 288 Shutter speed...........................108, 111 Exposure compensationvalue..... 116 Flash compensation value............ 178 Number of shots in exposure and flash bracketing sequence... 119 Number of shots in WB bracketing sequence ...................... 123 Focal length (non-CPU lenses) .... 200 Color temperature ...
The Command Dials The main- and sub-command dials are used alone or in combination with other controls to adjust a variety of settings.
❚❚ Image Quality and Size Press the QUAL button and rotate the command dials. Set image quality (pg. 57) X + QUAL button Main command dial Control panel Choose an image size (pg. 60) + QUAL button Sub-command dial Control panel ❚❚ ISO Sensitivity Press the ISO button and rotate the main command dial. Set ISO sensitivity (pg.
❚❚ Exposure Press the I button and rotate the main command dial to choose the exposure mode. X Choose the exposure mode (pg. 104) + I button Main command dial Control panel Use the command dials to adjust exposure. Choose a combination of aperture and shutter speed (exposure mode P; pg. 107) + Exposure mode e Choose a shutter speed (exposure mode S or M; pp.
Set exposure compensation (pg. 116) + X E button Activate or cancel bracketing/ select number of shots in bracketing sequence (pp. 119, 122) Main command dial Control panel + Fn button Select bracketing exposure increment (pg. 120) Main command dial Control panel + Fn button Sub-command dial Control panel A The Fn Button Depending on the option selected for Custom Setting f4 ([Assign FUNC. button], pg.
❚❚ White Balance Press the WB button and rotate the command dials. X Choose a white balance setting (pg. 129) + WB button Fine-tune white balance (pg. 134), set color temperature (pg. 135), or WB button choose a white balance preset (pg. 145) Main command dial Control panel + Sub-command dial Control panel ❚❚ Flash Settings Press the M button and rotate the command dials. Choose flash mode (pg. 173) + M button Adjust flash compensation (pg.
Attaching the AN-D300 Camera Strap Attach the camera strap securely to the two eyelets on the camera body as shown below. X The BM-8 Monitor Cover A clear plastic cover is provided with the camera to keep the monitor clean and protect it when the camera is not in use. To attach the cover, insert the projection on the top of the cover into the matching indentation above the camera monitor (q) and press the bottom of the cover until it clicks into place (w).
The DK-23 Viewfinder Eyepiece Cup X 20 Before attaching the DK-5 viewfinder eyepiece cap and other viewfinder accessories (pp. 91, 365), remove the DK-23 viewfinder eyepiece cup by placing your fingers underneath the flanges on either side and sliding it off as shown at right. The DK-5 viewfinder eyepiece cap is used in self-timer (pg. 91) and interval-timer photography (pg. 191).
Quick Start Guide Follow these steps for a quick start with the D300. X 1 Charge the battery (pg. 30). 2 Insert the battery (pg. 32). 3 Attach a lens (pg. 34). Mounting index 4 Insert a memory card (pg. 39). Front 5 Turn the camera on (pg. 44). For information on choosing a language and setting the time and date, see page 36. See page 43 for information on adjusting viewfinder focus.
6 Check camera settings (pp. 44, 47). Exposure mode X Battery level Image size Number of exposures remaining Image quality White balance ISO sensitivity Control panel Viewfinder display 7 Select single-servo autofocus (pp. 49, 62). Rotate the focus-mode selector to S (single-servo autofocus). 8 Focus and shoot (pp. 51, 52). Press the shutter-release button halfway to focus, then press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to take the photograph. 9 View the photograph (pg. 53).
sTutorial s This section describes how to use the camera menus, how to ready the camera for use, and how to take your first pictures and play them back. Camera Menus .................................................................. pg. 24 Using Camera Menus ..................................................................... pg. 26 Help ...................................................................................................... pg. 29 First Steps ...............................................
Camera Menus Most shooting, playback, and setup options can be accessed from the camera menus. To view the menus, press the G button. G button s Tabs Choose from playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, retouch, and My menus (see following page). Slider shows position in current menu. Current settings are shown by icons. Q If “Q” icon is displayed, help for current item can be viewed by pressing L (Q) button (pg. 29). 24 Menu options Options in current menu.
❚❚ Menus The following menus are available: Menu Description Adjust playback settings and manage photos D Playback (pg. 246). C Shooting Adjust shooting settings (pg. 254). A Custom Settings Personalize camera settings (pg. 264). Format memory cards and perform basic camera B Setup setup (pg. 312). Create retouched copies of existing photographs N Retouch (pg. 329). O My Menu Create a menu of custom options (pg. 344).
Using Camera Menus ❚❚ Menu Controls The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the menus. s Move cursor up Cancel and return to previous menu Select highlighted item Select highlighted item or display submenu Move cursor down J button Select highlighted item ❚❚ Navigating the Menus Follow the steps below to navigate the menus. 1 Display the menus. Press the G button to display the menus. 2 Highlight the icon for the current menu. Press 4 to highlight the icon for the current menu.
3 Select a menu. Press 1 or 3 to select the desired menu. s 4 Position the cursor in the selected menu. Press 2 to position the cursor in the selected menu. 5 Highlight a menu item. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a menu item. 6 Display options. Press 2 to display options for the selected menu item. 7 Highlight an option. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option.
8 Select the highlighted item. Press J to select the highlighted item. To exit without making a selection, press the G button. s J button Note the following points: • Menu items that are displayed in gray are not currently available. • While pressing 2 or the center of the multi selector generally has the same effect as pressing J, there are some cases in which selection can only be made by pressing J. • To exit the menus and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway (pg. 52).
Help If a Q icon is displayed at the bottom left corner of the monitor, help can be displayed by pressing the L (Q) button. A description of the currently selected option or menu will be displayed while the button is pressed. Press 1 or 3 to scroll through the display.
First Steps Charge the Battery s The D300 is powered by an EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied). The EN-EL3e is not fully charged at shipment. To maximize shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-18a quick charger before use. About two and a quarter hours are required to fully recharge the battery when no charge remains. 1 Plug the charger in. Insert the AC adapter plug into the battery charger and plug the power cable into an electrical outlet. Remove the terminal cover.
3 Insert the battery. Insert the battery into the charger. The CHARGE lamp will blink while the battery charges. s 4 Remove the battery when charging is complete. Charging is complete when the CHARGE lamp stops blinking. Remove the battery and unplug the charger.
Insert the Battery 1 Turn the camera off. Power switch Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing batteries. s 2 Open the battery-chamber cover. Open the battery-chamber cover on the bottom of the camera. 3 Insert the battery. Insert the battery as shown at right. 4 Close the battery-chamber cover. ❚❚ Removing the Battery Before removing the battery, turn the camera off. To prevent short-circuits, replace the terminal cover when the battery is not in use.
D The Battery and Charger Read and follow the warnings and cautions on pages xviii–xx and 377–380 of this manual. To prevent short-circuits, replace the terminal cover when the battery is not in use. Do not use the battery at ambient temperatures below 0°C (32°F) or above 40°C (104°F). During charging, the temperature should be in the vicinity of 5–35°C (41–95°F); for best results, charge the battery at temperatures above 20°C (68°F).
Attach a Lens Care should be taken to prevent dust from entering the camera when the lens is removed. s 1 Remove the rear lens cap and the camera body cap. After confirming that the camera is off, remove the rear lens cap from the lens and remove the camera body cap. q 2 w Attach the lens. Keeping the mounting mark on the lens aligned with the mounting mark on the Mounting camera body, position index the lens in the camera’s bayonet mount.
3 Remove the lens cap. q w q ❚❚ Detaching the Lens s Be sure the camera is off when removing or exchanging lenses. To remove the lens, press and hold the lens release button while turning the lens clockwise. After removing the lens, replace the lens caps and camera body cap. D CPU Lenses with Aperture Rings In the case of CPU lenses equipped with an aperture ring (pg. 352), lock aperture at the minimum setting (highest f-number). See the lens manual for details. A Lens An AF-S DX VR 18–200mm f/3.
Basic Setup The language option in the setup menu is automatically highlighted the first time menus are displayed. Choose a language and set the time and date. s 1 Turn the camera on. 2 Select [Language]. Press G to display the camera menus, then select [Language] in the setup menu. For information on using menus, see “Using Camera Menus” (pg. 26). 3 Select a language. Press 1 or 3 to highlight the desired language and press J.
4 Select [World time]. Select [World time] and press 2. 5 Set time zone. s A time-zone selection dialog will be displayed. Press 4 or 2 to highlight the local time zone (the [UTC] field shows the difference between the selected time zone and Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC, in hours) and press J. 6 Turn daylight saving time on or off. Daylight saving time options will be displayed.
8 Set date format. Press 1 or 3 to choose the order in which the year, month, and day will be displayed and press J. s 9 Exit to shooting mode. Press the shutter-release button halfway to exit to shooting mode. A The Clock Battery The camera clock is powered by an independent, rechargeable power source, which is charged as necessary when the main battery is installed or the camera is powered by an optional EH-5a or EH-5 AC adapter (pg. 364).
Insert a Memory Card The camera stores photographs on CompactFlash and microdrive memory cards (available separately; pg. 369). The following section describes how to insert and format a memory card. 1 Turn the camera off. s Power switch Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing memory cards. 2 Open the card slot cover. Unlatch the card slot cover (q) and open the card slot (w). 3 Insert the memory card. Insert the memory card with the front label toward the monitor (q).
4 Close the card slot cover. s ❚❚ Removing Memory Cards 1 Turn the camera off. Confirm that the access lamp is off and turn the camera off. Access lamp 2 Remove the memory card. Open the memory card slot cover and press the eject button (q) to partially eject the card (w). The memory card can then be removed by hand. Do not push on the memory card while pressing the eject button. Failure to observe this precaution could damage the camera or memory card.
❚❚ Formatting Memory Cards Memory cards must be formatted before first use. Format the card as described below. D Formatting Memory Cards Formatting memory cards permanently deletes any data they may contain. Be sure to copy any photographs and other data you wish to keep to a computer before proceeding (pg. 224). 1 Turn the camera on. 2 Press the Q buttons. s Power switch O button I button Hold the Q (I and O) buttons down simultaneously for approximately two seconds.
3 Press the Q buttons again. Press the Q (I and O) buttons together a second time to format the memory card. Do not remove the memory card or remove or disconnect the power source during formatting. s When formatting is complete, the control panel and viewfinder will show the number of photographs that can be recorded at current settings. D Memory Cards • Memory cards may be hot after use. Observe due caution when removing memory cards from the camera.
Adjust Viewfinder Focus The camera is equipped with diopter adjustment to accommodate individual differences in vision. Check that the display in the viewfinder is in focus before shooting. 1 Turn the camera on. Power switch s Remove the lens cap and turn the camera on. 2 Focus the viewfinder. Rotate the diopter control until the viewfinder display, focus points, and AF area brackets are in sharp focus.
Basic Photography and Playback Turn the Camera On s Before taking photographs, turn the camera on and check the battery level and number of exposures remaining as described below. 1 Turn the camera on. Power switch Turn the camera on. The control panel will turn on and the display in the viewfinder will light. 2 Check the battery level. Check the battery level in the control panel or viewfinder. Icon * Control panel Viewfinder Description L — Battery fully charged.
3 Check the number of exposures remaining. The exposure-count displays in the control panel and viewfinder show the number of photographs that can be taken at current settings. When this number reaches zero, A will flash in the exposure-count displays while the shutter-speed displays will show a blinking n or j.
A s LCD Illuminators Holding the power switch in the D Power switch position activates the exposure meters and control panel backlights (LCD illuminators), allowing the display to be read in the dark. After the power switch is released, the illuminator will remain lit for six seconds (at default settings) while the camera exposure meters are active or until the shutter is released.
Adjust Camera Settings This tutorial describes how to take photos at default settings. 1 Check camera settings. Exposure mode s Image size Image quality White balance Control panel ISO sensitivity Viewfinder display Default settings are listed below. Option Image quality Image size Default NORM (JPEG normal) L (Large) Description Page Record JPEG images at a compression ratio 56 of roughly 1 : 8*. Ideal for snapshots. * [Size priority] selected for [JPEG compression].
2 Choose exposure mode e. I dial Exposure mode e is selected at shipment. If another exposure mode is selected, press the I button and rotate the main command dial to select exposure mode e. The camera will automatically adjust shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure in most situations. s 3 Choose single frame release mode. Main command dial Release mode dial lock release S (single-frame release) mode is selected at shipment.
5 Choose single-servo autofocus. Focus-mode selector S (single-servo autofocus) is selected at shipment. If another focus mode has been selected, rotate the focusmode selector until it clicks into place pointing to S (singleservo autofocus). At this setting, the camera will automatically focus on the subject in the selected focus point when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Pictures can only be taken when the camera is in focus. 6 Choose matrix metering.
Ready the Camera s When framing photographs in the viewfinder, hold the handgrip in your right hand and cradle the camera body or lens with your left. Keep your elbows propped lightly against your torso for support and place one foot half a pace ahead of the other to keep you upper body stable. Hold the camera as shown at right when framing photographs in portrait (tall) orientation. For information on framing photographs in the monitor, see page 79.
Focus and Shoot 1 Press the shutterrelease button halfway to focus (pg. 52). s At default settings, the camera will focus on the subject in the center Focus Buffer focus point. Frame a indicator capacity photo in the viewfinder with the main subject positioned in the center focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway. If the camera is able to focus, a beep will sound and the in-focus indicator (I) will appear in the viewfinder.
2 Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to shoot. Smoothly press the shutterrelease-button the rest of the Access lamp way down to take the picture. While the photograph is being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the card slot cover will light. Do not eject the memory card, turn the camera off, or remove or disconnect the power source until the lamp has gone out. s A The Shutter-Release Button The camera has a two-stage shutter-release button.
Viewing Photographs 1 Press the K button. A photograph will be displayed in the monitor. s 2 View additional pictures. Additional pictures can be displayed by pressing 4 or 2. To view additional information on the current photograph, press 1 and 3 (pg. 208). Highlights 100--1 Select R, G, B To end playback and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. A Image Review When [On] is selected for [Image review] in the playback menu (pg.
Deleting Unwanted Photographs To delete the photograph currently displayed in the monitor, press the O button. Note that photographs can not be recovered once deleted. s 1 Display the photograph. Display the photograph you wish to delete as described in “Viewing Photographs” on the previous page. K button 2 Delete the photograph. Press the O button. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. O button Press the O button again to delete the image and return to playback.
dImage Recording Options d This section describes how to choose image quality and size. Image Quality.....................................................................pg. 56 Image Size...........................................................................pg.
Image Quality The D300 supports the following image quality options. d Option File type NEF (RAW) NEF TIFF (RGB) TIFF (RGB) JPEG fine JPEG normal JPEG JPEG basic NEF (RAW)+ JPEG fine NEF (RAW)+ JPEG normal NEF (RAW)+ JPEG basic NEF/ JPEG Description Raw data from the image sensor are saved directly to the memory card in Nikon Electronic Format (NEF). Use with images that will be transferred to a computer for printing or processing.
Image quality is set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel. QUAL button Main command dial d Control panel A NEF (RAW) Recording The [NEF (RAW) recording] item in the shooting menu controls compression (pg. 58) and bit depth (pg. 59) for NEF (RAW) images. A JPEG Compression JPEG images can be compressed for relatively uniform file size or optimal image quality.
❚❚ The JPEG Compression Menu The JPEG compression item in the shooting menu offers the following options for JPEG images: Option d Description Images are compressed to produce relatively Size priority uniform file size. Quality varies with scene O (default) recorded. Optimal image quality. File size varies with P Optimal quality scene recorded.
❚❚ The NEF (RAW) Recording Menu: NEF (RAW) Bit Depth The [NEF (RAW) recording] > [NEF (RAW) bit depth] item in the shooting menu offers the following bit-depth options for NEF (RAW) images: Option Description 12-bit q NEF (RAW) images are recorded at a bit-depth of 12 bits. (default) NEF (RAW) images are recorded at a bit-depth of 14 bits, producing files roughly 1.3 times larger than 12-bit files r 14-bit but increasing the color data recorded. Maximum frame advance rate (pg. 77) falls to 2.5 fps.
Image Size Image size is measured in pixels. Choose from the following options: d Option L (default) M S Size (pixels) Size when printed at 200 dpi (approx.) * 4,288 × 2,848 54.5 × 36.2 cm (21.4 × 14.2 in.) 3,216 × 2,136 40.8 × 27.1 cm (16.1 × 10.7 in.) 2,144 × 1,424 27.2 × 18.1 cm (10.7 × 7.1 in.) * Print size in inches equals image size in pixels divided by printer resolution in dots per inch (dpi; 1 inch = approximately 2.54 cm). Print size decreases as printer resolution increases.
NFocus – Controlling How the Camera Focuses This section describes the options that control how your camera focuses. N Focus Mode ........................................................................pg. 62 AF-Area Mode ....................................................................pg. 64 Focus Point Selection .......................................................pg. 66 Focus Lock ..........................................................................pg. 68 Manual Focus ........................
Focus Mode N Focus mode is controlled by the Focus-mode selector focus-mode selector on the front of the camera. There are two autofocus (AF) modes, in which the camera focuses automatically when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, and one manual focus mode, in which focus must be adjusted manually using the focusing ring on the lens: Option Description Camera focuses when shutter-release button is pressed halfway.
A The B Button For the purpose of focusing the camera, pressing the B button has the same effect as pressing the shutter-release button halfway. B button A Predictive Focus Tracking In continuous-servo AF, the camera will initiate predictive focus tracking if the subject moves toward or away from the camera while the shutterrelease button is pressed halfway or the B button is pressed. This allows the camera to track focus while attempting to predict where the subject will be when the shutter is released.
AF-Area Mode AF-area mode determines how the focus point is selected in autofocus mode. To select the AF-area mode, rotate the AF-area mode selector. The following options are available: AF-area mode selector N 64 Mode Description User selects focus point manually; camera focuses on K subject in selected focus point only. Use for relatively static Singlecompositions with subjects that will stay in selected focus point AF point.
A AF-Area Mode AF-area mode is shown in the control panel. AF-area mode indicator AF-area mode Control panel K Single-point AF Custom Setting a3 ([Dynamic AF area], pg. 269) N 9 points * (default) I Dynamic -area AF 21 points * 51 points * 51 points (3D-tracking) * H Auto-area AF * Only active focus point is displayed in the viewfinder. Remaining focus points provide information to assist focus operation. A Manual Focus Single-point AF is automatically selected when manual focus is used.
Focus Point Selection N The D300 offers a choice of 51 focus points that together cover a wide area of the frame. The focus point can be selected manually, allowing photographs to be composed the main subject AF-area mode selector positioned almost anywhere in the frame (single-point and dynamicarea AF), or automatically (auto-area AF; note that manual focus point detection is not available when auto-area AF is selected). To select the focus point manually: 1 Rotate the focus selector lock to ●.
A See Also For information on choosing when the focus point is illuminated, see Custom Setting a6 ([AF point illumination], pg. 271). For information on setting focus-point selection to “wrap around,” see Custom Setting a7 ([Focus point wrap-around], pg. 272). For information on choosing the number of focus points that can be selected using the multi selector, see Custom Setting a8 ([AF point selection], pg. 272).
Focus Lock Focus lock can be used to change the composition after focusing, making it possible to focus on a subject that will not be in a focus point in the final composition. It can also be used when the autofocus system is unable to focus (pg. 70). 1 Focus. Position the subject in the selected focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway to initiate focus. N 2 Check that the in-focus indicator (I) appears in the viewfinder.
Continuous-servo AF Press the AE-L/AF-L button to lock both focus and exposure (an AE-L icon appears in the viewfinder, see page 114). Focus and exposure will remain locked while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed, even if you later remove your finger from the shutter-release button. Shutter-release button q N w AE-L/AF-L button 3 Recompose the photograph and shoot.
Getting Good Results with Autofocus Autofocus does not perform well under the conditions listed below. The shutter release may be disabled if the camera is unable to focus under these conditions, or the in-focus indicator (●) may be displayed and the camera may sound a beep, allowing the shutter to be released even when the subject is not in focus. In these cases, use manual focus (pg. 71) or use focus lock (pg. 68) to focus on another subject at the same distance and then recompose the photograph.
Manual Focus Manual focus is available for lenses that do not support autofocus (non-AF Nikkor lenses) or when the autofocus does not produce the desired results (pg. 70). To focus manually, set the focus-mode selector to M and adjust the lens focusing ring until the image displayed on the clear matte field in the viewfinder is in focus. Photographs can be taken at any time, even when the image is not in focus.
The Electronic Range Finder N If the lens has a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, the viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm whether the subject in the selected focus point is in focus (the focus point can be selected from any of the 51 focus points). After positioning the subject in the selected focus point, press the shutter-release button halfway and rotate the lens focusing ring until the infocus indicator (I) is displayed.
kRelease Mode – Single Frame, Continuous, Live View, Self-Timer, or Mirror Up Release mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time, in a continuous sequence, with the view through the lens displayed in the monitor, with a timed shutter-release delay, or with the mirror raised to enhance shutter response and minimize vibration. k Choosing a Release Mode............................................... pg. 74 Continuous Mode............................................................. pg.
Choosing a Release Mode The camera supports the following release modes: k Mode S Single frame CL Continuous low speed CH Continuous high speed a Live view E Self-timer MUP Mirror up Description Camera takes one photograph each time shutter-release button is pressed. While shutter-release button is held down, camera records 1–6 frames per second. 1 Frame rate can be chosen using Custom Setting d4 ([CL mode shooting speed], pg. 76).
To choose a release mode, press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to the desired setting.
Continuous Mode To take pictures in CH (continuous high speed) and CL (continuous low speed) modes: 1 Select CH or CL mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to CH or CL. Release mode dial k 2 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. While the shutter-release button is pressed all the way down, pictures will be taken at up to 6 fps in continuous high speed mode, or at the frame rate selected for Custom Setting d4 ([CL mode shooting speed], pg.
A Power Source and Frame Rate The maximum frame advance rate varies with the power source used.
A The Memory Buffer The camera is equipped with a memory buffer for temporary storage, allowing shooting to continue while photographs are being saved to the memory card. Up to 100 photographs can be taken in succession; note, however, that frame rate will drop when the buffer is full. In rare cases, frame rate may also drop when a microdrive memory card is used. k While photographs are being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the memory card slot will light.
Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) Select live view (a) mode to frame pictures in the monitor. Rotate the release mode dial to a. Choose live view options in shooting menu (pg. 80). g [Hand-held] (pg. 83) Raise mirror and display view through lens in monitor. k h [Tripod] (pg. 86) Frame a picture in the viewfinder and focus. Exit Frame picture in monitor. Raise mirror and display view through lens in monitor. Exit Focus. Mirror clicks down and monitor turns off. Focus.
Live View Options Before taking pictures using live view, rotate the mode dial to a (live view) and choose a live view mode and the release mode that will be used while the camera is in live view mode. The following live view modes are available: Option k Description Choose when taking hand-held shots of moving g Hand-held subjects, or when framing photographs at angles that (default) make it difficult to use the viewfinder (pg. 83). Camera focuses normally using phase-detection autofocus.
Release mode can be chosen from the following options: Option s Single frame (default) Continuous t low-speed Continuous u high-speed 1 Description Camera takes one photograph each time shutterrelease button is pressed. While shutter-release button is held down, camera records photographs in continuous low speed or continuous high speed mode (pg. 77). Select [Live view]. In the shooting menu (pg. 254), highlight [Live view] and press 2. 2 k Select [Live view mode].
4 Select [Release mode]. Highlight [Release mode] and press 2. 5 Select a release mode. Highlight the release mode that will be during live view and press J. k 6 Exit to shooting mode. Press the shutter-release button halfway to exit the menus and return to shooting mode.
Hand-Held Mode 1 Select live view mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to a. Release mode dial 2 Press the shutter-release button all the way down. The mirror will be raised and the view through the lens will Exit be displayed in the camera monitor instead of the viewfinder (for improved focus, pause briefly with the shutter-release button pressed halfway before pressing it the rest of the way down).
3 Frame a picture in the monitor. To magnify the view in the monitor up to 3 ×, press the X button. X button Exit k While the view through the lens is zoomed in, a navigation window will appear in the bottom right corner of the display. Use the multi selector to scroll within the AF area brackets. 4 Focus. Autofocus (focus mode S or C): Press the shutter-release button halfway or press the B button. The camera will focus normally and set exposure.
5 Take the picture. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to reset focus and exposure and take the picture. If continuous high speed or continuous low speed is selected for [Release mode], the monitor will turn off while the shutter-release button is pressed. The frame advance rate for continuous mode is the same as that selected for standard shooting. k D No Picture After shooting, play the picture back in the monitor to ensure that the photograph has been recorded.
Tripod Mode 1 Ready the camera. Mount the camera on a tripod or place it on a stable, level surface. 2 Select live view mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to a. k Release mode dial 3 Frame a picture in the viewfinder. B button Frame a picture in the viewfinder and select a focus point using the multi selector, then press the B button. The camera will focus normally and set exposure.
5 Check the view in the monitor. To magnify the view in the monitor up to 13 × and check focus, press the X button. X button Exit While the view through the lens is zoomed in, a navigation window will appear in the bottom right corner of the display. Use the multi selector to scroll to areas of the frame not visible in the monitor. Press J to exit zoom.
6 Take the picture. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to take the picture. If continuous high speed or continuous low speed is selected for [Release mode], the monitor will turn off while the shutter-release button is pressed. The frame advance rate for continuous mode is the same as that selected for standard shooting. k D Contrast-Detect Autofocus The camera will not continue to adjust focus while the B button is pressed in continuous-servo autofocus mode.
Note that the focus point may sometimes be displayed in green when the camera is unable to focus. Use an AF-S lens. The desired results may not be achieved with other lenses or teleconverters. A The Shooting Information Display To hide or display indicators in the monitor in live view mode, press the R button. k Exit Shooting information on Shooting information off A Monitor Brightness Monitor brightness can be adjusted by pressing the K button while the view through the monitor is displayed.
D Shooting in Live View Mode Although they will not appear in the final picture, banding or distortion may be visible in the monitor under fluorescent, mercury vapor, or sodium lamps or if the camera is panned horizontally or an object moves at high speed through frame. Bright light sources may leave after-images in the monitor when the camera is panned. When shooting in live view mode, avoid pointing the camera at the sun or other strong light sources.
Self-Timer Mode The self-timer can be used to reduce camera shake or for selfportraits. To use the self-timer, mount the camera on a tripod (recommended) or place the camera on a stable, level surface and follow the steps below: 1 Select self-timer mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to E. k Release mode dial 2 Frame the photograph and focus. In single-servo autofocus (pg.
3 Start the timer. Press the shutter-release button all the way down to start the timer. The self-timer lamp (AF-assist illuminator) will start to blink and a beep will begin to sound. Two seconds before the photograph is taken, the self-timer lamp will stop blinking and the beeping will become more rapid. Raising the flash interrupts the timer. To restart, wait until the flash-ready indicator is displayed in the viewfinder and press the shutter-release button halfway.
Mirror up Mode Choose this mode to minimize blurring caused by camera movement when the mirror is raised. Use of a tripod is recommended. 1 Select mirror up mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to MUP. Release mode dial 2 k Raise the mirror. Frame the picture, focus, and then press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to raise the mirror.
k 94
SISO Sensitivity – Reacting Faster to Light “ISO sensitivity” is the digital equivalent of film speed. The higher the ISO sensitivity, the less light needed to make an exposure, allowing higher shutter speeds or smaller apertures. This chapter describes how to set ISO sensitivity manually and automatically. Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually............................... pg. 96 S Auto ISO Sensitivity Control........................................... pg.
Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually ISO sensitivity can be set to values between ISO 200 and ISO 3200 in steps equivalent to 1/3 EV. Settings of from about 0.3–1 EV below ISO 200 and 0.3–1 EV above ISO 3200 are also available for special situations. S ISO sensitivity can be adjusted by pressing the ISO button and rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel or viewfinder.
A ISO Sensitivity Settings The settings available depend on the option selected for Custom Setting b1 ([ISO sensitivity step value], pg. 275). Custom Setting b1 (ISO sensitivity step value) ISO sensitivity settings available LO 1, LO 0.7, LO 0.3, 200, 250, 320, 400, 500, 640, 800, 1000, 1250, 1600, 2000, 2500, 3200, HI 0.3, HI 0.7, HI 1 LO 1, LO 0.5, 200, 280, 400, 560, 800, 1100, 1/2 step 1600, 2200, 3200, HI 0.
Auto ISO Sensitivity Control S If [Off ] (the default setting) is chosen for the [ISO sensitivity auto control] option in the shooting menu, ISO sensitivity will remain fixed at the value selected by the user (see page 96). If [On] is chosen, ISO sensitivity will automatically be adjusted if optimal exposure can not be achieved at the value selected by the user (flash level is adjusted appropriately).
A Auto ISO Sensitivity Control Noise is more likely at higher sensitivities. Use the [High ISO NR] option in the shooting menu to reduce noise (see page 263). Foreground subjects may be underexposed in photos taken with the flash at slow shutter speeds, in daylight, or against a bright background. Choose a flash mode other than slow sync or select exposure mode A or M and choose a larger aperture.
S 100
VExposure – Controlling How the Camera Sets Exposure This section describes the options available to control exposure, including metering, exposure mode, exposure lock, exposure compensation, and bracketing. Metering ......................................................................... pg. 102 Exposure Mode.............................................................. pg. 104 e: Programmed Auto................................................................... f: Shutter-Priority Auto .................
Metering Metering determines how the camera sets exposure. The following options are available: Method a 3D color matrix II Z Centerweighted Z b Spot Description Recommended in most situations. Camera meters a wide area of the frame and sets exposure according to distribution of brightness, color, distance, and composition for natural results.
To choose a metering method, rotate the metering selector until the desired mode is displayed. Metering selector Z A 3D Color Matrix II Metering In matrix metering, exposure is set using a 1005-segment RGB sensor. Use a type G or D lens for results that include range information (3D color matrix metering II; see page 352 for information on lens types). With other CPU lenses, 3D range information is not included (color matrix metering II).
Exposure Mode Exposure mode determines how the camera sets shutter speed and aperture when adjusting exposure. Four modes are available: programmed auto (e), shutter-priority auto (f ), aperture-priority auto (g), and manual (h). Mode Z Description Camera sets shutter speed and aperture for Programmed optimal exposure. Recommended for snapshots e auto and in other situations in which there is little time (pg. 106) to adjust camera settings.
To choose the exposure mode, press the I button and rotate the main command dial until the desired mode is displayed in the control panel or viewfinder. I button Main command dial A Depth-of-Field Preview To preview the effects of aperture, press and hold the depth-of-field preview button. The lens will be stopped down to the aperture value selected by the camera (modes e and f ) or the value chosen by the user (modes g and h), allowing depth of field to be previewed in the viewfinder.
e: Programmed Auto In this mode, the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture according to a built-in program to ensure optimal exposure in most situations. This mode is recommended for snapshots and other situations in which you want to leave the camera in charge of shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in programmed auto: 1 Select exposure mode e. I button Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until e is displayed in the viewfinder and control panel.
A Flexible Program In exposure mode e, different combinations of shutter speed and aperture can be selected by rotating the main command dial (“flexible program”). Rotate the command dial to the right for large apertures (small f-numbers) that blur background details or fast shutter speeds that “freeze” motion. Rotate the command dial to the Main command dial left for small apertures (large f-numbers) that increase depth of field or slow shutter speeds that blur motion.
f: Shutter-Priority Auto In shutter-priority auto, you choose the shutter speed while the camera automatically selects the aperture that will produce the optimal exposure. To take photographs in shutter-priority auto: 1 Select exposure mode f. I button Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until f is displayed in the viewfinder and Main command dial control panel. Z 2 Choose a shutter speed. Rotate the main command dial to choose the desired shutter speed.
g: Aperture-Priority Auto In aperture-priority auto, you choose the aperture while the camera automatically selects the shutter speed that will produce the optimal exposure. To take photographs in aperture-priority auto: 1 Select exposure mode g. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until g is displayed in the viewfinder and control panel. 2 I button Main command dial Z Choose an aperture.
3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Z A Non-CPU Lenses If the maximum aperture of the lens has been specified using the [Non-CPU lens data] item in setup menu (pg. 199) when a non-CPU lens is attached, the current f-number will be displayed in the viewfinder and control panel, rounded to the nearest full stop. Otherwise the aperture displays will show only the number of stops (F, with maximum aperture displayed as FA) and the f-number must be read from the lens aperture ring.
h: Manual In manual exposure mode, you control both shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in manual exposure mode: 1 Select exposure mode h. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until h is displayed in the viewfinder and control panel.
2 Choose aperture and shutter speed. Rotate the main command dial to choose a shutter speed, and the sub-command dial to set aperture. Shutter speed can be set “p” or to values between 30 s and 1/8,000 s, or the shutter can be held open indefinitely for a long time-exposure (A, pg. 113). Aperture can be set to values between the minimum and maximum values for the lens.
A Electronic Analog Exposure Displays The electronic analog exposure displays in the control panel and viewfinder show whether the photograph would be under- or overexposed at current settings. Depending on the option chosen for Custom Setting b2 ([EV steps for exposure cntrl.], pg. 275), the amount of under- or over-exposure is shown in increments of 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, or 1 EV. If the limits of the exposure metering system are exceeded, the displays will flash.
Autoexposure (AE) Lock Use autoexposure lock to recompose photographs after metering exposure. 1 Select center-weighted or spot metering (pg. 102). Metering selector Matrix metering will not produce the desired results with autoexposure lock. If using center-weighted metering, select the center focus point with the multi selector (pg. 66). Z 2 Lock exposure. Shutter-release button Position the subject in the selected focus point and press the shutterrelease button halfway.
3 Recompose the photograph. Keeping the AE-L/AF-L button pressed, recompose the photograph and shoot. A Metered Area In spot metering, exposure will be locked at the value metered in a 3-mm (0.12 in.) circle centered on the selected focus point. In center-weighted metering, exposure will be locked at the value metered in the center of the viewfinder (the default area for center-weighted metering is shown by the 8-mm circle in the viewfinder).
Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker. It is most effective when used with center-weighted or spot metering (see page 102). In exposure mode h, only the exposure information shown in the electronic analog exposure display is affected; shutter speed and aperture do not change.
Exposure compensation can be set to values between –5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure) in increments of 1/3 EV. In general, choose positive values to make the subject brighter, negative values to make it darker. –1 EV No exposure compensation +1 EV At values other than ±0, the 0 at the center of the electronic analog exposure displays will flash and a E icon will be displayed in the control panel and viewfinder after you release the E button.
Bracketing The D300 offers three types of bracketing: exposure bracketing, flash bracketing, and white balance bracketing. In exposure bracketing (pg. 119), the camera varies exposure compensation with each shot, while in the case of flash bracketing (pg. 119), flash level is varied with each shot (i-TTL and, in the case of the SB-800, auto aperture flash control modes only; see pages 357–359).
❚❚ Exposure and Flash Bracketing 1 Select flash or exposure bracketing. Choose the type of bracketing to be performed using Custom Setting e5 ([Auto bracketing set], pg. 298). Choose [AE & flash] to vary both exposure and flash level (the default setting), [AE only] to vary only exposure, or [Flash only] to vary only flash level. 2 Choose the number of shots. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the main command dial to choose the number of shots in the bracketing sequence.
3 Select an exposure increment. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the exposure increment. Exposure increment Fn button Sub-command dial Control panel At default settings, the size of the increment can be chosen from 1/3, 2/3, and 1 EV. The bracketing programs with an increment of 1/3 EV are listed below. Z Control panel display No. of shots 0 3 3 2 2 3 5 7 9 A Bracketing order (EVs) 0 +0.3/0/+0.7 –0.3/–0.7/0 0/+0.3 0/–0.3 0/–0.3/+0.3 0/–0.7/–0.3/+0.3/+0.7 0/–1.0/–0.
4 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. The camera will vary exposure and/or flash level shot-by-shot according to the bracketing program selected. Modifications to exposure are added to those made with exposure compensation (see page 116), making it possible to achieve exposure compensation values of more than 5 EV. While bracketing is in effect, a bracketing progress indicator will be displayed in the control panel. A segment will disappear from the indicator after each shot.
❚❚ Canceling Bracketing To cancel bracketing, press the Fn button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequence is zero ( ) and M is no longer displayed in the control panel on top of the camera. The program last in effect will be restored the next time bracketing is activated. Bracketing can also be cancelled by performing a two-button reset (pg. 184), although in this case the bracketing program will not be restored the next time bracketing is activated.
❚❚ White Balance Bracketing 1 Select white balance bracketing. Choose [WB bracketing] for Custom Setting e5 [Auto bracketing set] (pg. 298). 2 Choose the number of shots. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the main command dial to choose the number of shots in the bracketing sequence. The number of shots is shown in the control panel.
3 Select a white balance increment. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the white balance adjustment. Each increment is roughly equivalent to 5 mired. White balance increment Fn button Sub-command dial Choose from increments of 1 (5 mired), 2 (10 mired), or 3 (15 mired). Higher B values correspond to increased amounts of blue, higher A values to increased amounts of amber (pg. 132). The bracketing programs with an increment of 1 are listed below.
4 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Each shot will be processed to create the number of copies specified in the bracketing program, and each copy will have a different white balance. Modifications to white balance are added to the white balance adjustment made with white balance fine-tuning.
❚❚ Canceling Bracketing To cancel bracketing, press the Fn button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequence is zero (r) and W is no longer displayed in the control panel. The program last in effect will be restored the next time bracketing is activated. Bracketing can also be cancelled by performing a two-button reset (pg. 184), although in this case the bracketing program will not be restored the next time bracketing is activated.
rWhite Balance – Keeping Colors True The color of light reflected from an object varies with the color of the light source. The human brain is able to adapt to changes in the color of the light source, with the result that white objects appear white whether seen in the shade, direct sunlight, or under incandescent lighting. Unlike the film used in film cameras, digital cameras can mimic this adjustment by processing images according to the color of the light source. This is known as “white balance.
White Balance Options For natural coloration, choose a white balance setting that matches the light source before shooting. The following options are available: Option Auto (default) 3,500– 8,000* J Incandescent 3,000* v r I Fluorescent Sodium-vapor lamps Warm-white fluorescent White fluorescent 2,700* 3,000* 3,700* Cool-white fluorescent 4,200* Day white fluorescent 5,000* Daylight fluorescent 6,500* High temp. mercuryvapor 7,200* H Direct sunlight 128 Color temp.
Option N Flash G Cloudy M Shade K Choose color temp. L Preset manual Color temp. (K) Description 5,400* Use with built-in or optional flash. 6,000* Use in daylight under overcast skies. Use in daylight with subjects in the 8,000* shade. 2,500– Choose color temperature from list 10,000 of values (pg. 135). Use subject, light source, or existing — photograph as reference for white balance (pg. 136). * All values are approximate. Fine-tuning set to 0.
A Studio Flash Lighting Auto white balance may not produce the desired results with large studio flash units. Choose a color temperature, use preset white balance, or set white balance to [Flash] and use fine tuning to adjust white balance. A Color Temperature The perceived color of a light source varies with the viewer and other conditions.
Fine-Tuning White Balance White balance can be “fine tuned” to compensate for variations in the color of the light source or to introduce a deliberate color cast into an image. White balance is fine tuned using the [White balance] option in the shooting menu or by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. ❚❚ The White Balance Menu 1 Select a white balance option. Select [White balance] in the shooting menu (pg. 254), then highlight a white balance option and press 2.
2 Fine tune white balance. Use the multi selector to finetune white balance. White balance can be fine tuned on the amber (A)–blue (B) axis and the green (G)–magenta (M) Coordinates Adjustment axis. The horizontal (amberblue) axis corresponds to color temperature, with each increment equivalent to about 5 mired. The vertical (greenmagenta) axis has the similar effects to the corresponding color compensation (CC) filters.
A White Balance Fine Tuning The colors on the fine-tuning axes are relative, not absolute. For example, moving the cursor to B (blue) when a “warm” setting such as J (incandescent) is selected for white balance will make photographs slightly “colder” but will not actually make them blue. A “Mired” Any given change in color temperature produces a greater difference in color at low color temperatures than it would at higher color temperatures.
❚❚ The WB Button At settings other than K ([Choose color temp.]) and L ([Preset manual]), the WB button can be used to fine-tune white balance on the amber (A)–blue (B) axis (pg. 132; to fine-tune white balance when K or L is selected, use the shooting menu as described on page 132). Six settings in both directions are available; each increment is equivalent to about 5 mired (pg. 133). Press the WB button and rotate the sub-command dial until the desired value is displayed in the control panel.
Choosing a Color Temperature When K ([Choose color temp.]) is selected for white balance, color temperature can be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. The color temperature is displayed in the control panel: Control panel WB button Sub-command dial r D Choose Color Temperature Note that the desired results will not be obtained with flash or fluorescent lighting. Choose N ([Flash]) or I ([Fluorescent]) for these sources.
Preset Manual Preset manual is used to record and recall custom white balance settings for shooting under mixed lighting or to compensate for light sources with a strong color cast. Two methods are available for setting preset white balance: Method Description Neutral gray or white object is placed under Direct lighting that will be used in final photograph and measurement white balance is measured by camera (pg. 138). Copy from existing White balance is copied from photo on memory photograph card (pg.
The camera can store up to five values for preset white balance in presets d-0 through d-4. A descriptive comment can be added to any white balance preset (pg. 146). d-0 Stores last value measured for white balance (pg. 138). This preset is overwritten when a new value is measured. d-1–d-4 Store values copied from d-0 (pg. 141). Store values copied from images on memory card (pg. 142). r A White Balance Presets Changes to white balance presets apply to all shooting menu banks (pg. 255).
❚❚ Measuring a Value for White Balance 1 Light a reference object. Place a neutral gray or white object under the lighting that will be used in the final photograph. In studio settings, a standard gray panel can be used as a reference object. Note that exposure is automatically increased by 1 EV when measuring white balance; in exposure mode h, adjust exposure so that the electronic analog exposure displays shows ±0 (pg. 113). 2 Set white balance to L ([Preset manual]).
3 Select direct measurement mode. Release the WB button briefly and then press the button until the L icon in the control panel and viewfinder start to flash. A flashing D will also appear in the control panel and viewfinder. At default settings, the displays will flash for about six seconds. 4 Control panel Viewfinder Measure white balance. Before the indicators stop flashing, frame the reference object so that it fills the viewfinder and press the shutter-release button all the way down.
If lighting is too dark or too bright, the camera may be unable to measure white balance. A flashing b a will appear in the control panel and viewfinder (at default settings, the displays will flash for about six seconds). Press the shutterrelease button halfway to return to Step 4 and measure white balance again. 6 Control panel Viewfinder Select preset d-0.
❚❚ Copying White Balance from d-0 to Presets d-1–d-4 Follow the steps below to copy a measured value for white balance from d-0 to any of the other presets (d-1–d-4). 1 Select L ([Preset manual]). Highlight [Preset manual] in the white balance menu (pg. 128) and press 2. 2 Select a destination. Highlight the destination preset (d-1 to d-4) and press the center of the multi selector. 3 r Copy d-0 to the selected preset. Highlight [Copy d-0] and press J. If comment has been created for d-0 (pg.
❚❚ Copying White Balance from a Photograph (d-1–d-4 Only) Follow the steps below to copy a value for white balance from a photograph on the memory card to a selected preset (d-1–d-4 only). Existing white balance values can not be copied to preset d-0. 1 Select L ([Preset manual]). Highlight [Preset manual] in the white balance menu (pg. 128) and press 2. 2 Select a destination. Highlight the destination preset (d-1 to d-4) and press the center of the multi selector. r 3 Choose [Select image].
4 Highlight a source image. Highlight the source image. To view the highlighted image full frame, press the X button. 5 Copy white balance. Press the center of the multi selector to copy the white balance value for the highlighted photograph to the selected preset. If the highlighted photograph has a comment (pg. 317), the comment will be copied to the comment for the selected preset.
❚❚ Selecting a White Balance Preset To set white balance to a preset value: 1 Select L ([Preset manual]). Highlight [Preset manual] in the white balance menu (pg. 128) and press 2. 2 Select a preset. Highlight the desired preset and press the center of the multi selector. To select the highlighted preset and display fine tuning menu (pg. 132) without completing the next step, press J instead of pressing the center of the multi selector. r 3 Select [Set]. Highlight [Set] and press 2.
A Selecting a White Balance Preset: the WB Button At a setting of L ([Preset manual]), presets can also be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. The current preset is displayed in the control panel while the WB button is pressed.
❚❚ Entering a Comment Follow the steps below to enter a descriptive comment of up to thirty-six characters for a selected white balance preset. 1 Select L ([Preset manual]). Highlight [Preset manual] in the white balance menu (pg. 128) and press 2. 2 Select a preset. Highlight the desired preset and press the center of the multi selector. r 3 Select [Edit comment]. Highlight [Edit comment] and press 2. 4 Edit the comment. Edit the comment as described on page 256.
JImage Enhancement This chapter describes how to optimize sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation and hue using Picture Controls, how to preserve detail in highlights and shadows using active D-Lighting, and how to choose a color space. Picture Controls ............................................................. pg. 148 Creating Custom Picture Controls .......................................... pg. 156 Active D-Lighting .......................................................... pg. 167 Color Space.
Picture Controls Nikon’s unique Picture Control system makes it possible to share image processing settings among compatible devices and software. Select from the Picture Controls provided with the camera to instantly adjust image processing settings, or make independent adjustments to sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue. These settings can be saved under new names as custom Picture Controls to be recalled or edited at will.
❚❚ Using Picture Controls Picture Controls can be used as described below. • Select Nikon Picture Controls (pg. 150): Select an existing Nikon Picture Control. • Modify existing Picture Controls (pg. 152): Modify an existing Picture Control to create a combination of sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue for a particular scene or effect. • Create custom Picture Controls (pg. 156): Store modified Picture Controls under unique names and recall or edit them as desired.
Selecting Nikon Picture Controls The camera offers four preset Nikon Picture Controls. Choose a Picture Control according to the subject or type of scene. Option Q R S T Description Standard processing for balanced results. Standard Recommended for most situations. Minimal processing for natural results. Choose for Neutral photographs that will later be extensively processed or retouched. Pictures are enhanced for a vivid, photoprint effect. Vivid Choose for photographs that emphasize primary colors.
A The Picture Control Grid Pressing the W button in Step 2 displays a Picture Control grid showing the contrast and saturation for the selected Picture Control in relation to the other Picture Controls (only contrast is displayed when [Monochrome] is selected). To select a different Picture Control, press 1 or 3, then press 2 to display Picture Control options and press J.
Modifying Existing Picture Controls Existing Nikon or custom Picture Controls can be modified to suit the scene or the user’s creative intent. Choose a balanced combination of settings using [Quick adjust], or make manual adjustments to individual settings. 1 Select a Picture Control. Highlight the desired Picture Control in the [Set Picture Control] menu (pg. 150) and press 2. 2 Adjust settings. Press 1 or 3 to highlight the desired setting and press 4 or 2 to choose a value (pg. 153).
❚❚ Picture Control Settings Option Manual adjustments (all Picture Controls) Description Choose from options between [–2] and [+2] to reduce or exaggerate the effect of the selected Picture Control (note that this resets all manual adjustments). For Quick adjust example, choosing positive values for [Vivid] makes pictures more vivid. Not available with [Neutral], [Monochrome], or custom Picture Controls. Control the sharpness of outlines.
D “A” (Auto) Results for auto contrast and saturation vary with exposure and the position of the subject in the frame. Use a type G or D lens for best results. The icons for Picture Controls that use auto contrast and saturation are displayed in green in the Picture Control grid, and lines appear parallel to the axes of the grid.
A Filter Effects (Monochrome Only) The options in this menu simulate the effect of color filters on monochrome photographs. The following filter effects are available: Y O R G Option Yellow Orange Red Green Description Enhances contrast. Can be used to tone down the brightness of the sky in landscape photographs. Orange produces more contrast than yellow, red more contrast than orange. Softens skin tones. Can be used for portraits.
Creating Custom Picture Controls The Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the camera can be modified and saved as custom Picture Controls. 1 Select [Manage Picture Control]. In the shooting menu (pg. 254), highlight [Manage Picture Control] and press 2. 2 Select [Save/edit]. Highlight [Save/edit] and press 2.
3 Select a Picture Control. Highlight an existing Picture Control and press 2, or press J to proceed to step 5 to save a copy of the highlighted Picture Control without further modification. 4 Edit the selected Picture Control. See page 153 for more information. To abandon any changes and start over, press the O button. Press J when settings are complete. 5 Select a destination. Choose a destination for the custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2.
6 Name the Picture Control. Keyboard area Name area The text-entry dialog shown at right will be displayed. By default, new Picture Controls are named by adding a two-digit number (assigned automatically) to the name of the existing Picture Control. This name can be edited to create a new name as described below. To move the cursor in the name area, press the W button and press 4 or 2.
A Custom Picture Controls Custom Picture Controls are not affected by [Reset shooting menu] (pg. 257). Custom Picture Controls do not have a [Quick adjust] option (pg. 153). Custom Picture Controls based on [Monochrome] have [Filter effects] and [Toning] options in place of [Saturation] and [Hue] controls. A The Original Picture Control Icon The Nikon Picture Control on which the custom Picture Control is based is indicated by an icon in the top right corner of the edit display.
Sharing Custom Picture Controls Custom Picture Controls created using ViewNX or optional software such as Capture NX can be copied to a memory card and loaded into the camera, or custom Picture Controls created with the camera can be copied to the memory card to be used in compatible cameras and software. ❚❚ Copying Custom Picture Controls to the Camera 1 Select [Load/save]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Load/save] and press 2. 2 Select [Copy to camera].
4 Select a destination. Choose a destination for the custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 5 Name the Picture Control. Name the Picture Control as described on page 158. The new Picture Control will appear in the Picture Control list and can be renamed at any time using the [Rename] option in the [Manage Picture Control] menu.
❚❚ Saving Custom Picture Controls to the Memory Card 1 Select [Copy to card]. After displaying the [Load/ save] menu as described in Step 1 on page 160, highlight [Copy to card] and press 2. 2 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control and press 2. 3 Choose a destination. Choose a destination from slots 1 through 99 and press J to save the selected Picture Control to the memory card. Any Picture Controls that may already have been saved to the selected slot will be overwritten.
Managing Custom Picture Controls Follow the steps below to rename or delete custom Picture Controls. ❚❚ Renaming Custom Picture Controls 1 Select [Rename]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Rename] and press 2. 2 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 3 Rename the Picture Control. J Rename the Picture Control as described on page 256.
❚❚ Deleting Custom Picture Controls from the Camera 1 Select [Delete]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Delete] and press 2. 2 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 3 Select [Yes]. Highlight [Yes] and press J to delete the selected Picture Control. J A Nikon Picture Controls The Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the camera ([Standard], [Neutral], [Vivid], and [Monochrome]) can not be renamed or deleted.
❚❚ Deleting Custom Picture Controls from the Memory Card 1 Select [Load/save]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Load/save] and press 2. 2 Select [Delete from card]. Highlight [Delete from card] and press 2.
3 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control (slot1 through 99) and either; • press 2 to view current Picture Control settings, or • press J to display confirmation dialog shown at right. 4 J 166 Select [Yes]. Highlight [Yes] and press J to delete the selected Picture Control.
Active D-Lighting Active D-Lighting preserves details in highlights and shadows, creating photographs with natural contrast. Use for high contrast scenes, for example when photographing brightly lit outdoor scenery through a door or window or taking pictures of shaded subjects on a sunny day.
To use active D-Lighting: 1 Select [Active D-Lighting]. In the shooting menu (pg. 254), highlight [Active D-lighting] and press 2. 2 Choose an option. Highlight [Off], [Low], [Normal], or [High] and press J. J D Active D-Lighting Additional time is required to record images when Active D-Lighting is on (pg. 403). Use matrix metering (pg. 102).
Color Space The color space determines the gamut of colors available for color reproduction. Choose a color space according to how photographs will be processed on leaving the camera. Option Description Choose for photographs that will be printed or W sRGB (default) used “as is,” with no further modification. This color space is capable of expressing a wider gamut of colors than sRGB, making it the preferred X Adobe RGB choice for images that will be extensively processed or retouched.
A Color Space Color spaces define the correspondence between colors and the numeric values that represent them in a digital image file. The sRGB color space is widely used, while the Adobe RGB color space is typically used in publishing and commercial printing.
lFlash Photography – Using the Built-in Flash This chapter describes how to use the built-in flash. The Built-in Flash........................................................... pg. 172 Using the Built-in Flash ................................................ pg. 173 Flash Modes.................................................................... pg. 176 Flash Compensation ..................................................... pg. 178 FV Lock ..................................................................
The Built-in Flash The built-in flash has a Guide Number (GN) 17/56 (m/ft, ISO 200, 20 °C/68 °F). It supports i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR, which uses monitor pre-flashes to adjust flash output for balanced lighting not only when natural lighting is inadequate but when filling in shadows and backlit subjects or adding a catch light to the subject’s eyes.
Using the Built-in Flash Follow these steps when using the built-in flash. 1 Choose a metering method (pg. 102). Metering selector Select matrix or center-weighted metering to activate i-TTL balanced fillflash for digital SLR. Standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR is activated automatically when spot metering is selected. 2 Press the flash pop-up button. The built-in flash will pop up and begin charging. When the flash is fully charged, the flash-ready indicator (c) will light.
4 Check exposure (shutter speed and aperture). Press the shutter-release button halfway and check shutter speed and aperture. The settings available when the built-in flash is raised are listed below.
Lowering the Built-in Flash To save power when the flash is not in use, press it gently downward until the latch clicks into place. D The Built-in Flash Use with lenses with focal lengths of 18–300 mm (pg. 354). Remove lens hoods to prevent shadows. The flash has a minimum range of 60 cm (2 ft.) and can not be used in the macro range of macro zoom lenses. If the flash fires in continuous release mode (pg. 76), only one picture will be taken each time the shutter-release button is pressed.
Flash Modes The D300 supports the following flash modes: Flash mode Front-curtain sync Red-eye reduction l Red-eye reduction with slow sync Slow sync 176 Description This mode is recommended for most situations. In programmed auto and aperture-priority auto modes, shutter speed will automatically be set to values between 1/250 and 1/60 s (1/8,000 to 1/60 s when an optional flash unit is used with Auto FP High-Speed Sync) (pg. 357).
Flash mode Description In shutter-priority auto or manual exposure mode, flash fires just before the shutter closes. Use to create effect of a stream of light behind moving objects. In programmed auto and aperture-priority auto, slow Rear-curtain sync rear-curtain sync is used to capture both subject and background. Use of tripod is recommended to prevent blurring caused by camera shake.
Flash Compensation Flash compensation is used to alter flash output by from –3EV to +1EV in increments of 1/3 EV, changing the brightness of the main subject relative to the background. Flash output can be increased to make the main subject appear brighter, or reduced to prevent unwanted highlights or reflections. Press the Y button and rotate the sub-command dial until the desired value is displayed in the control panel.
A Optional Flash Units Flash compensation is also available with optional SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 flash units. A See Also For information on choosing the size of the increments available when setting flash compensation, see Custom Setting b3 ([Exp comp/fine tune], pg. 275).
FV Lock This feature is used to lock flash output, allowing photographs to be recomposed without changing the flash level and ensuring that flash output is appropriate to the subject even when the subject is not positioned in the center of the frame. Flash output is adjusted automatically for any changes in ISO sensitivity and aperture. To use FV lock: 1 Assign FV lock to the Fn button. Select [FV lock] for Custom Setting f4 ([Assign FUNC. button] > [FUNC. button press], pg. 303).
4 Lock flash level. After confirming that the flash ready indicator (M) is displayed in the viewfinder, press the Fn button. The flash will emit a monitor preflash to determine the appropriate flash level. Flash output will be locked at this level and FV lock icons (e) will appear in the control panel and viewfinder. 5 Recompose the photograph. 6 Take the photograph. Fn button Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to shoot.
D Using FV Lock with the Built-in Flash FV lock is only available with the built-in flash when [TTL] (the default option) is selected for Custom Setting e3 ([Flash cntrl for built-in flash], pg. 291). A Using FV Lock with Optional Flash Units FV lock is also available with SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 flash units (available separately). Set the optional flash to TTL mode (the SB800 can also be used in AA mode; see the flash manual for details).
tOther Shooting Options This chapter covers restoring default settings, making multiple exposures, interval timer photography, and using GPS units and non-CPU lenses. Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings........ pg. 184 Multiple Exposure ......................................................... pg. 186 Interval Timer Photography........................................ pg. 191 Non-CPU Lenses ............................................................ pg. 198 Using a GPS Unit........................
Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings The camera settings listed below can be restored to default values by holding the QUAL and E buttons down together for more than two seconds (these buttons are marked by a green dot). The control panel turns off briefly while settings are reset.
The following shooting-menu options will also be reset. Only settings in the bank currently selected using the [Shooting menu bank] option will be reset (pg. 255). Settings in the remaining banks are unaffected. Option Image quality Image size Default JPEG Normal Large Option White balance ISO sensitivity Default Auto * 200 * Fine-tuning off. If the current Picture Control has been modified, existing settings for the Picture Control will also be restored.
Multiple Exposure Follow the steps below to record a series of two to ten exposures in a single photograph. Multiple exposures can be recorded at any image quality setting, and produce results with colors noticeably better than photographs combined in an imaging application because they make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor.
3 Select the number of shots. Press 1 or 3 to choose the number of exposures that will be combined to form a single photograph and press J. 4 Select [Auto gain]. Highlight [Auto gain] and press 2. 5 Set gain. Highlight one of the following options and press J. Option Description Gain adjusted according to number of exposures On actually recorded (gain for each exposure is set to 1/2 for (default) 2 exposures, 1/3 for 3 exposures, etc.). Gain is not adjusted when recording multiple exposure.
6 Select [Done]. Highlight [Done] and press J. A n icon will be displayed in the control panel. To exit without taking a multiple exposure, select [Multiple exposure] > [Reset] in the shooting menu. 7 t Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. In continuous high-speed and continuous lowspeed release modes (pg. 74), the camera records all exposures in a single burst.
D Multiple Exposure Do not remove or replace the memory card while recording a multiple exposure. Live view (pg. 79) can not be used to record multiple exposures. The information listed in the playback photo information display (including date of recording and camera orientation) is for the first shot in the multiple exposure.
❚❚ Interrupting Multiple Exposures Selecting [Multiple exposure] in the shooting menu while a multiple exposure is being recorded displays the options shown at right. To interrupt a multiple exposure before the specified number of exposures have been taken, highlight [Cancel] and press J. If shooting ends before the specified number of exposures have been taken, a multiple exposure will be created from the exposures that have been recorded to that point.
Interval Timer Photography The D300 is equipped to take photographs automatically at preset intervals. 1 Select [Interval timer shooting]. Highlight [Interval timer shooting] in the shooting menu (pg. 254) and press 2. 2 Select a starting trigger. Highlight one of the following [Choose start time] options and press 2. • [Now]: Shooting begins about 3 s after settings are completed (proceed to Step 4). • [Start time]: Choose a start time (see Step 3).
3 Choose a start time. Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours or minutes; press 1 or 3 to change. The starting time is not displayed if [Now] is selected for [Choose start time]. 4 Choose an interval. Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours, minutes, or seconds; press 1 or 3 to change. Note that the camera will not be able to take photographs at the specified interval if it is shorter than the shutter speed or the time required to record images.
5 Choose the number of intervals and number of shots per interval. Press 4 or 2 to highlight number of intervals or number of shots; press 1 or 3 to change. The total number of shots that will be taken is displayed to the right. Number of Number Total intervals 6 of shots/ number of interval shots Start shooting. Highlight [Start] > [On] and press J (to return to the shooting menu without starting the interval timer, highlight [Start] > [Off] and press J).
D Out of Memory If the memory card is full, the interval timer will remain active but no pictures will be taken. Resume shooting (pg. 195) after deleting some pictures or turning the camera off and inserting another memory card. A Bracketing Adjust bracketing settings before starting interval timer photography.
❚❚ Pausing Interval Timer Photography Interval time photography can be paused by: • Pressing the J button between intervals • Highlighting [Start] > [Pause] in the interval timer menu and pressing J • Turning the camera off and then on again (if desired, the memory card can be replaced while the camera is off ) • Selecting live view (a), self-timer (E), or mirror-up (MUP) release modes To resume shooting: 1 Choose a new starting trigger.
❚❚ Interrupting Interval Timer Photography Interval timer shooting will end automatically if the battery is exhausted. Interval timer photography can also be ended by: • Selecting [Start] > [Off ] in the interval timer menu • Performing a two button reset (pg. 184) • Selecting [Reset shooting menu] in the shooting menu (pg. 257) • Changing bracketing settings (pg. 118) Normal shooting will resume when interval timer photography ends.
A Shooting Menu Banks Changes to interval timer settings apply to all shooting menu banks (pg. 255). If shooting menu settings are reset using the [Reset shooting menu] item in the shooting menu (pg.
Non-CPU Lenses By specifying lens data (lens focal length and maximum aperture), the user can gain access to a variety of CPU lens functions when using a non-CPU lens.
❚❚ The Non-CPU Lens Data Menu 1 Select [Non-CPU lens data]. Highlight [Non-CPU lens data] in the setup menu (pg. 312) and press 2. 2 Select a lens number. Highlight [Lens number] and press 4 or 2 to choose a lens number between 1 and 9. 3 Select a focal length. Highlight [Focal length (mm)] and press 4 or 2 to choose a focal length between 6 and 4,000 mm. 4 Select a maximum aperture. Highlight [Maximum aperture] and press 4 or 2 to choose a maximum aperture between f/1.2 and f/22.
5 Select [Done]. Highlight [Done] and press J. The specified focal length and aperture will be stored under the chosen lens number. This combination of focal length and aperture can be recalled at any time by selecting the lens number using camera controls as described below. ❚❚ Choosing a Lens Number Using Camera Controls 1 Assign non-CPU lens number selection to a camera control. Select [Choose non-CPU lens number] as the “+command dials” option for a camera control in the Custom Settings menu.
Using a GPS Unit Optional Garmin GPS units that conform to version 2.01 or 3.01 of the National Marine Electronics Association NMEA0183 data format can be connected to the camera’s ten-pin remote terminal using an MC-35 GPS adapter cord (available separately; pg. 368), allowing information on the camera’s current position to be recorded when photographs are taken. Operation has been confirmed with Garmin eTrex and Garmin geko series devices equipped with a PC interface cable connector.
When the camera establishes communication with a GPS device, a k icon will be displayed in the control panel. Photo information for pictures taken while the k icon is displayed will include an additional page (pg. 215) recording the current latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and heading. If no data are received from the GPS unit for two seconds, the k icon will clear from the display and the camera will stop recording GPS information.
❚❚ Setup Menu Options The [GPS] item in the setup menu contains the options listed below. • [Auto meter off]: Choose whether or not the exposure meters will turn off automatically when a GPS unit is attached. Option Description Exposure meters will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for the period specified in Custom Setting c2 Enable ([Auto meter-off delay]).
t 204
IMore About Playback – Playback Options This chapter describes how to play back photographs and details the operations that can be performed during playback. Full-Frame Playback...................................................... pg. 206 Photo Information ........................................................ pg. 208 Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback ...... pg. 218 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom ....................... pg. 220 Protecting Photographs from Deletion .................... pg.
Full-Frame Playback To play photographs back, press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor. Multi selector Sub-command dial O button K button L button W button X button J button Main command dial I A Rotate Tall To display “tall” (portrait-orientation) photographs in tall orientation, select [On] for the [Rotate tall] option in the playback menu (pg. 251).
To View additional photographs Use Press 1 or 3 to view information about current photograph (pg. 208). View photo information View thumbnails Zoom in on photograph W Delete images O Change protect status Return to shooting mode Display menus Description Press 2 to view photographs in order recorded, 4 to view photographs in reverse order. X L /K G See page 218 for more information on the thumbnail display. See page 220 for more information on playback zoom.
Photo Information Photo information is superimposed on images displayed in fullframe playback. There are up to 7 pages of information for each photo. Press 1 or 3 to cycle through photo information as shown below. Note that shooting data are only displayed if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 250), while the RGB histogram page is only displayed if [RGB histogram] is selected for [Display mode]. GPS data are only displayed if a GPS device was used when the photo was taken.
❚❚ File Information 1 2 3 4 5 6 1/ 10 14 13 Highlights 100ND300 DSC _0001. JPG 15/12/2007 10 : 15 : 29 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 11 Protect status ............................. 221 Retouch indicator..................... 329 Image highlights 1 .................... 250 Focus point 2 .............................. 250 AF area brackets ...................43, 84 Frame number/ total number of frames 7 File name.....................................
❚❚ RGB Histogram 1 1 2 7 3 4 Highlights 8 100--1 9 5 6 Select R, G, B 1 Protect status............................. 221 2 Retouch indicator..................... 329 3 Image highlights (areas of image that may be overexposed) are marked by a flashing border. 2 4 Folder number– frame number ........................... 258 5 Histogram (RGB channel) 3. In all histograms, horizontal axis gives pixel brightness, vertical axis number of pixels.
3 Some sample histograms are shown below: • If the image contains objects with a wide range of brightnesses, the distribution of tones will be relatively even. • If the image is dark, tone distribution will be shifted to the left. • If the image is bright, tone distribution will be shifted to the right. Increasing exposure compensation shifts the distribution of tones to the right, while decreasing exposure compensation shifts the distribution to the left.
❚❚ Shooting Data Page 1 1 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 2 MTR, SPD, AP. EXP. MODE, I SO , EXP. TUN I NG FOCAL LENGTH LENS AF / VR FLASH MODE, : , 1/ 8000, F4. 8 : , 200 : + 1. 3, +5 / 6 : 35mm : 18– 200 / 3. 5–5.6 : S / VR– On : Built – i n, TTL, +1. 3 SLOW CMD : M : TTL, +3. 0 A: TTL, +3. 0 C: OFF B: OFF N I KON D300 11 100--1 12 1 Protect status............................. 221 8 Focus mode .................................. 62 Lens VR 2 Retouch indicator..................... 329 (vibration reduction) 4 ...
❚❚ Shooting Data Page 2 1 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 WHI TE BAL. COLOR SPACE PI CTURE CNTRL QUICK ADJUST SHARPENING CONTRAST BRI GHTNESS SATURATION HUE : AUTO, 0, 0 : s RGB : STANDARD :0 :3 :0 :0 :0 :0 N I KON D300 100--1 12 1 Protect status............................. 221 2 Retouch indicator..................... 329 3 White balance............................ 127 Color temperature ................... 135 White balance fine-tuning.... 131 Preset manual............................ 136 4 Color space....
❚❚ Shooting Data Page 3 * 1 3 4 5 6 2 NOI SE REDUC. : H I I SO NORM ACT . D– L I GHT. : NORMAL : D– L I GHT I NG RETOUCH WARM TONE CYANOTYPE TRI M : SPRI NG HAS COME. SP COMMENT RI NG HAS COME. 3636 N I KON D300 100--1 7 1 Protect status............................. 221 2 Retouch indicator..................... 329 3 High ISO noise reduction ...... 263 Long exposure noise reduction..................................... 262 4 Active D-Lighting ..................... 167 8 5 6 7 8 Retouch history ......
❚❚ GPS Data 1 1 2 3 LATITUDE. 4 LONGITUDE 5 6 ALTITUDE TIME(UTC) 7 HEADING : : : : : : : : N 35 º 36. 371' E 139 º 43. 696' 35m 15/12/2007 01:15:29 105. 07 º N I KON D300 8 1 2 3 4 5 Protect status............................. 221 Retouch indicator..................... 329 Latitude Longitude Altitude 100--1 9 6 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) 7 Heading 2 8 Camera name 9 Folder number– frame number ............................
❚❚ Overview Data 1 2 N I KON D300 1 / 10 16 15 14 13 12 11 216 4 5 1/ 8000, F4. 8 200 + 1. 3 –1. 3 REAR 10000 A6, M1 100ND300 DSC_0001. JPG 15/12/2007 10: 15: 29 1 Folder number/frame number 2 Protect status............................. 221 3 Camera name 4 Retouch indicator..................... 329 5 Histogram showing the distribution of tones in the image (pg. 211). Horizontal axis corresponds to pixel brightness, vertical axis shows number of pixels of each brightness in image.
N I KON D300 1 / 10 27 26 25 1/ 8000, F4. 8 HI 0. 3 + 1. 3 –1. 3 REAR 10000 A6, M1 100ND300 DSC_0001. JPG 15/12/2007 10 : 15: 29 24 17 18 19 20 21 22 35mm 23 Picture Control .......................... 150 Active D-Lighting .................... 168 File name..................................... 260 Image quality................................56 Image size ......................................60 Image authentication indicator ...................................... 324 23 Time of recording.........
Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback To display images in “contact sheets” of four or nine images, press the W button.
The following operations can be performed while thumbnails are displayed: To Use Display more images W Display fewer images X Description Press W button to “zoom out” from one to four images per page. Press again to display nine images per page. Press X button to “zoom in” from nine to four images per page. Press again to display highlighted image full frame. Press center of multi selector to switch back and forth between full frame and thumbnail playback.
Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom Press the X button to zoom in on the image displayed in full-frame playback or on the image currently highlighted in thumbnail playback. The following operations can be performed while zoom is in effect: To Use Zoom in or out X/ W View other areas of image I 220 Rotate main command dial to view same location in other images at current zoom ratio.
Protecting Photographs from Deletion In full-frame, zoom, and thumbnail playback, the L button can be used to protect photographs from accidental deletion. Protected files can not be deleted using the O button or the [Delete] option in the playback menu. Note that protected images will be deleted when the memory card is formatted (pp. 41, 313). To protect a photograph: 1 Select an image. Display the image in full-frame playback or playback zoom or highlight it in the thumbnail list.
Deleting Individual Photographs To delete the photograph displayed in full-frame playback or the photograph highlighted in the thumbnail list, press the O button. Once deleted, photographs can not be recovered. 1 Select an image. Display the image or highlight it in the thumbnail list. 2 Press the O button. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. Full-Frame Playback Thumbnail Playback I To delete the photograph, press the O button again. To exit without deleting the photograph, press the K button.
QConnections – Connecting to External Devices This chapter describes how to copy photographs to a computer, how to print pictures, and how to view them on a television set. Connecting to a Computer ........................................... pg. 224 Direct USB Connection ................................................................ pg. 226 Wireless and Ethernet Networks .............................................. pg. 229 Printing Photographs .................................................... pg.
Connecting to a Computer This section describes how to connect the camera to a computer using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. Once the camera is connected, Nikon Transfer (supplied) or optional Nikon software such as Camera Control Pro 2 can be used to copy photographs to the computer or control the camera remotely. Q D Connecting Cables Be sure the camera is off when connecting or disconnecting interface cables. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle.
❚❚ Before Connecting the Camera Install the necessary software from the supplied installer CD (see the Install Guide for more information). To ensure that data transfer is not interrupted, be sure the camera battery is fully charged. If in doubt, charge the battery before use or use an EH-5a or EH-5 AC adapter (available separately). Before connecting the camera, select the [USB] option in the camera setup menu (pg.
Direct USB Connection Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. 1 Select a USB option. Before connecting the camera to the computer, make sure the correct option is selected for the [USB] item in the camera setup menu (pg. 225). 2 Turn the camera off. 3 Turn the computer on. Power switch Turn the computer on and wait for it to start up. 4 Connect the USB cable. Connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle.
5 Turn the camera on. Power switch If [Mass Storage] is selected for [USB] (pg. 225), c will be displayed in the control panel and viewfinder, and the PC mode indicator will flash in the control panel (camera displays do not change if [MTP/PTP] is selected). 6 Transfer photographs. Transfer photographs to the computer as described in the online help for Nikon Transfer. To view the online help, start Nikon Transfer and select [Nikon Transfer help] from the Nikon Transfer [Help] menu.
7 Turn the camera off. If [MTP/PTP] is selected for [USB], the camera can be turned off and the USB cable disconnected once transfer is complete. If [Mass Storage] is selected, the camera must first be removed from the system as described below. Windows Vista Click the “Safely Remove Hardware” icon ( ) in the taskbar and select [Safely Remove USB Mass Storage Device] from the menu that appears.
Wireless and Ethernet Networks If the optional WT-4 wireless transmitter is attached, photographs can be transferred or printed over wireless or Ethernet networks and the camera can also be controlled from network computers running Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately). The WT-4 can be used in any of the following modes: Mode Function Upload new or existing photographs to computer or ftp Transfer mode server. Thumbnail Preview photographs on computer monitor before select mode upload.
Printing Photographs Photographs can be printed by any of the following methods: • Connect the camera to a printer and print JPEG photographs directly from the camera (pg. 231). • Insert the camera memory card in a printer equipped with a card slot (see the printer manual for details). If the printer supports DPOF (pg. 413), photographs can be selected for printing using [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 240). • Take the camera memory card to a developer or digital printer center. If the center supports DPOF (pg.
Direct USB Connection If the camera is connected to a PictBridge printer via the supplied USB cable, selected JPEG pictures can be printed directly from the camera. Take photographs Select photographs for printing using [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 240) Select [MTP/PTP] in camera [USB] menu and connect camera to printer (pg. 232) Print photographs one at a time (pg. 233) Print multiple photographs (pg. 236) Create index prints (pg.
❚❚ Connecting the Printer Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. 1 Select [MTP/PTP]. If the [USB] option in the camera setup menu has been changed from the default setting of [MTP/PTP], display the [USB] menu and select [MTP/PTP] (pg. 225). 2 Turn the camera off. 3 Connect the USB cable. Turn the printer on and connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle. Q 4 Turn the camera on.
❚❚ Printing Pictures One at a Time 1 Select a picture. Press 4 or 2 to view additional pictures, or press the X button to zoom in on the current frame (pg. 220). To view six pictures at a time, press the W button. Use the multi selector to highlight pictures, or press X to display the highlighted picture full frame. 2 Display printing options. Press J to display PictBridge printing options.
3 Adjust printing options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. Option Q 234 Description Menu shown at right will be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to choose page size (to print at Page size default page size for current printer, select [Printer default]), then press J to select and return to previous menu. Menu shown at right will be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to No. of choose number of copies copies (maximum 99), then press J to select and return to previous menu.
Option Cropping 4 Description Menu shown at right will be displayed. To exit without cropping picture, highlight [No cropping] and press J. To crop picture, highlight [Crop] and press 2. If [Crop] is selected, dialog shown at right will be displayed. Press X to increase size of crop, W to decrease. Choose position of crop using multi selector and press J. Start printing. Select [Start printing] and press J to start printing. To cancel before all copies have been printed, press J.
Printing Multiple Pictures 1 Display the PictBridge menu. Press the G button in the PictBridge playback display (see Step 4 on page 232). G button 2 Q 236 Choose [Print select] or [Print (DPOF)]. Highlight one of the following options and press 2. • [Print select]: Select pictures for printing. • [Print (DPOF)]: Print an existing print order created with the [Print set (DPOF)] option in the playback menu (pg. 240). The current print order will be displayed in Step 3.
3 Select pictures. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture full screen, L button press X button. To select the current picture for printing, press the L button and press 1. The picture will be marked with a Z icon and the number of prints will be set to 1. Keeping the L button pressed, press 1 or 3 to specify the number of prints (up to 99; to deselect the picture, press 3 when the number of prints is 1).
5 Adjust printing options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. Option Description Menu of page size options will be displayed (pg. 234). Press 1 or 3 to choose page size (to print at default Page size page size for current printer, select [Printer default]), then press J to select and return to previous menu. Menu of border options will be displayed (pg. 234).
❚❚ Creating Index Prints To create an index print of all JPEG pictures on the memory card, select [Index print] in Step 2 of “Printing Multiple Pictures” (pg. 236). Note that if the memory card contains more than 256 pictures, only the first 256 images will be printed. 1 Select [Index print]. Highlight [Index print] in the PictBridge menu (pg. 236) and press 2. The confirmation dialog shown at right will be displayed. 2 Display printing options. Press J to display PictBridge printing options.
❚❚ Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set The [Print set (DPOF)] option in the playback menu is used to create digital “print orders” for PictBridge-compatible printers and devices that support DPOF. Selecting [Print set (DPOF)] from the playback menu displays the menu shown in Step 1. 1 Choose [Select/set]. Highlight [Select/set] and press 2. 2 Q 240 Select pictures. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card.
3 Select imprint options. Highlight the following options and press 2 to toggle the highlighted option on or off (to complete the print order without including this information, proceed to Step 4). • [Data imprint]: Print shutter speed and aperture on all pictures in print order. • [Imprint date]: Print date of recording on all pictures in print order. 4 Complete the print order. Highlight [Done] and press J to complete the print order.
Viewing Photographs on TV The supplied EG-D100 video cable can be used to connect the D300 to a television or VCR for playback or recording. A type A High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable (available separately from commercial sources) can be used to connect the camera to high-definition video devices. Standard Definition Devices To connect the camera to a standard television: 1 Turn the camera off. Always turn the camera off before connecting or disconnecting the video cable.
A Video Mode (pg. 314) Be sure that the video standard matches the standard used in the video device. Note that resolution will drop when images are output on a PAL device. A Television Playback Use of an EH-5a or EH-5 AC adapter (available separately) is recommended for extended playback. When the EH-5a or EH-5 is connected, the camera monitor-off delay will be fixed at ten minutes and the exposure meters will no longer turn off automatically.
High-Definition Devices The camera can be connected to HDMI devices using a type A HDMI cable (available separately from commercial sources). 1 Turn the camera off. Always turn the camera off before connecting or disconnecting an HDMI cable. 2 Connect the HDMI cable as shown. Connect to camera Connect to highdefinition device 3 Tune the device to the HDMI channel. 4 Turn the camera on and press K button.
UMenu Guide This chapter describes the options available in the camera menus. D The Playback Menu: Managing Images ............... pg. 246 C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options................. pg. 254 A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings........................................................ pg. 264 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup............................... pg. 312 N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies..................................................... pg.
D The Playback Menu: Managing Images The playback menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the playback menu, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus.
Selecting Multiple Pictures To select multiple pictures for [Delete] (pg. 248), [Hide image] (pg. 249), [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 253), and direct printing (pg. 236): 1 Highlight a picture. To view the highlighted picture full screen, press and hold the X button. 2 X button Press the center of the multi selector to select the highlighted picture. Selected pictures are marked by an icon. When selecting pictures for printing, press the L button and press 1 or 3 to choose the number of copies.
3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 to select additional pictures. To deselect a picture, highlight it and press center of multi selector. 4 Press J to complete the operation. J button Delete Select this option to delete pictures. Protected and hidden images will not be deleted. Option Q Selected R All U 248 Description Delete selected pictures. Delete all pictures in the folder currently selected for playback (pg. 249).
Playback Folder Choose a folder for playback. Option ND300 (default) All Current Description Pictures in all folders created with the D300 will be visible during playback. Pictures in all folders will be visible during playback. Only pictures in the current folder will be visible during playback. Hide Image Hide or reveal selected pictures. Hidden pictures are visible only in the [Hide image] menu and can only be deleted by formatting the memory card.
Display Mode Choose the information available in the playback photo information display (pg. 208). Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option, then press 2 to select the option for the photo information display. A L appears next to selected items; to deselect, highlight and press 2. To return to the playback menu, highlight [Done] and press 2. Option Description Basic photo info Highlights are shown by blinking border in photo Highlights information display.
Image Review Choose whether pictures are automatically displayed in the monitor immediately after shooting. Option Description Pictures are automatically displayed in the monitor after On shooting. Off (default) Pictures can only be displayed by pressing K button. After Delete Choose the picture displayed after an image is deleted. Option Show next S (default) Show T previous Description Display following picture. If deleted picture was last frame, previous picture will be displayed.
Slide Show Create a slide show of the pictures in the current playback folder (pg. 249). Hidden images (pg. 249) are not displayed. Option Description Start Start slide show. Frame interval Choose how long each picture will be displayed. To start the slide show, highlight [Start] and press J. The following operations can be performed while the slide show is in progress: To Press Description Skip back/skip Press 4 to return to previous frame, 2 to skip ahead to next frame.
Print Set (DPOF) Choose [Select/set] to select pictures for printing on a DPOFcompatible device (pg. 240). Choose [Deselect all?] to remove all pictures from the current print order.
C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options The shooting menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the shooting menu, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus” (pg. 24). Option Shooting menu bank Reset shooting menu Active folder File naming Image quality Image size JPEG compression NEF (RAW) recording White balance Set Picture Control Manage Picture Control Color space Active D-Lighting Long exp.
Shooting Menu Bank Shooting menu options are stored in one of four banks. With the exceptions of [Multiple exposure] and [Interval timer shooting], changes to settings in one bank have no effect on the others. To store a particular combination of frequently-used settings, select one of the four banks and set the camera to these settings. The new settings will be stored in the bank even when the camera is turned off, and will be restored the next time the bank is selected.
2 Enter a name. Keyboard area To move the cursor in the name area, press the W button and press 4 or 2. To enter a new letter at the current cursor position, use the multi selector Name area to highlight the desired character in the keyboard area and press the center of the multi selector. To delete the character at the current cursor position, press the O button. To return to the shooting menu without changing the bank name, press the G button. Bank names can be up to twenty characters long.
Reset Shooting Menu Choose whether to restore default settings for the current shooting menu bank. See page 398 for a list of default settings. With the exceptions of image quality, image size, white balance, and ISO sensitivity, shooting menu settings are not reset when a two-button reset (pg. 184) is performed. Option Description Yes Restore defaults for the current shooting menu bank. No (default) Exit without changing shooting menu settings.
Active Folder Select the folder in which subsequent images will be stored. ❚❚ New Folder Number 1 Select [New folder number]. Highlight [New folder number] and press 2. 2 Choose a folder number. Press 4 or 2 to highlight a digit, press 1 or 3 to change. If a folder with the selected number already exists, a W, X, or Y icon will be displayed to the left of the folder number: • W : Folder is empty. • X : Folder is partially full. • Y : Folder contains 999 pictures or a picture numbered 9999.
❚❚ Select Folder 1 Choose [Select folder]. Highlight [Select folder] and press 2. 2 Highlight a folder. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a folder. 3 Select the highlighted folder. Press J to select the highlighted folder and return to the shooting menu (to exit without changing the active folder, press the G button). Subsequent photographs will be stored in the selected folder.
File Naming Photographs are saved using file names consisting of “DSC_” or, in the case of images that use the Adobe RGB color space, “_DSC”, followed by a four-digit number and a three-letter extension (e.g., “DSC_0001.JPG”). The [File naming] option is used to select three letters to replace the “DSC” portion of the file name. For information on editing file names, see steps 2 and 3 of “Renaming Shooting Menu Banks” (pg. 256).
NEF (RAW) Recording Choose compression and bit-depth options for NEF (RAW) images (pg. 58). White Balance Adjust white balance settings (pg. 128). Set Picture Control Select from the Picture Controls provided with the camera to instantly adjust image processing settings (pg. 148). Manage Picture Control Save and modify custom Picture Control combinations, or copy custom Picture Controls to or from the memory card (pg. 156). Color Space Choose from sRGB and Adobe RGB color spaces (pg. 169).
Long Exp. NR (Long Exposure Noise Reduction) Choose whether to reduce noise in pictures taken at slow shutter speeds. Option Description Photographs taken at shutter speeds slower than 8 s are processed to reduce noise. While photographs are being processed, “l m” will blink in the shutter speed/aperture displays for a period of time On approximately equal to the current shutter speed. In continuous release mode, frame rates will slow and the capacity of the memory buffer will drop.
High ISO NR Photographs taken at high ISO sensitivities can be processed to reduce “noise.” Option Description S High Noise reduction is performed at ISO sensitivities of ISO Normal T 800 and higher. Choose the amount of noise reduction (default) performed from [High], [Normal], and [Low]. U Low Noise reduction is only performed at sensitivities of HI 0.3 and higher. The amount of noise reduction is less than Off the amount performed when [Low] is selected for [High ISO NR].
A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings Custom Settings are used to customize camera settings to suit individual preferences. In addition to Custom Settings B ([Custom setting bank]) and A ([Reset custom settings]), settings in the Custom Settings menu are divided into the six groups shown at right. Main menu U 264 B: Custom A: Reset custom setting bank (pg. settings (pg.
The following Custom Settings are available: Custom Setting B Custom setting bank A Reset custom settings a Autofocus a1 a2 a3 a4 a5 a6 a7 a8 a9 a10 AF-C priority selection AF-S priority selection Dynamic AF area Focus tracking with lock-on AF activation AF point illumination Focus point wrap-around AF point selection Built-in AF-assist illuminator AF-ON for MB-D10 Page 266 266 267 268 269 270 271 271 272 272 273 274 b Metering/exposure b1 b2 b3 b4 b5 b6 ISO sensitivity step value EV steps for exposure
C: Custom Setting Bank Custom Settings are stored in one of four banks. Changes to settings in one bank have no effect on the others. To store a particular combination of frequently-used settings, select one of the four banks and set the camera to these settings. The new settings will be stored in the bank even when the camera is turned off, and will be restored the next time the bank is selected.
a: Autofocus a1: AF-C Priority Selection This option controls whether Focus mode selector photographs can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed (release priority) or only when the camera is in focus (focus priority) in continuous-servo AF. To select continuous-servo AF, rotate the focus mode selector to C. Option Release G (default) Description Photos can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed. Photos can be taken even when the camera is not in Release + E focus.
a2: AF-S Priority Selection This option controls whether photographs can be taken only when the camera is in focus (focus priority) or whenever the shutterrelease button is pressed (release priority) in single-servo AF. To select single-servo AF, rotate the focus mode selector to S. Option G Release F Focus (default) Focus mode selector Description Photos can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed. Photos can only be taken when the in-focus indicator (I) is displayed.
a3: Dynamic AF Area If the subject leaves the selected focus point when dynamic-area AF (I; pg. 64) is selected in continuous-servo AF (focus mode C; pg. 62), the camera will focus based on information from surrounding focus points. Choose the number of focus points from 9, 21, and 51 based on subject movement.
Option Description If the subject leaves the selected focus point, the camera will use 3D-tracking to track the subject and select a new focus point as required. Use to 51 points f (3D-tracking) quickly compose pictures with subjects that are moving erratically from side to side (e.g., tennis players). If the subject leaves the viewfinder, remove your finger from the shutter-release button and recompose the photograph with the subject in the selected focus point.
a5: AF Activation This option controls whether both the shutter-release button and the B button can be used to initiate autofocus, or whether autofocus is only initiated when the B button is pressed. Option Shutter/ AF-ON (default) B only Description Autofocus can be performed with the B button or by pressing the shutter-release button halfway. Autofocus can only be performed using the B button. a6: AF Point Illumination Choose whether the active focus point is highlighted in red in the viewfinder.
a7: Focus Point Wrap-Around Choose whether focus-point selection “wraps around” from one edge of the viewfinder to another. Option Description Focus-point selection “wraps around” from top to bottom, w q bottom to top, right to left, and left Wrap to right, so that, for example, pressing 2 when a focus point at the right edge of the viewfinder display is highlighted (q) selects the corresponding focus point at the left edge of the display (w).
a9: Built-in AF-assist illuminator Choose whether the built-in AF-assist illuminator lights to assist the focus operation when lighting is poor. Option Description The AF-assist illuminator lights when lighting is poor. AFassist illumination is only available when both of the following conditions are met: On 1. Single-servo autofocus is selected for focus mode (pg. 62). (default) 2. Auto-area AF is chosen for AF-area mode (pg.
a10: AF-On for MB-D10 Choose the function assigned to the B button on the optional MB-D10 battery pack. Option AF-ON A (default) Description Pressing the MB-D10 B button initiates autofocus. Focus and exposure lock while the MB-D10 B B AE/AF lock button is pressed. Exposure locks while the MB-D10 B button is C AE lock only pressed.
b: Metering/Exposure b1: ISO Sensitivity Step Value This option determines whether adjustments to sensitivity are made in increments equivalent to 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, or 1 EV. Option H 1/3 step (default) I 1/2 step J 1 step b2: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl. This option determines whether adjustments to shutter speed, aperture, and bracketing are made in increments equivalent to 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, or 1 EV. Option Description Changes to shutter speed and aperture are in increments 1/3 step H equivalent to 1/3 EV.
b4: Easy Exposure Compensation This option controls whether the E button is needed to set exposure compensation (pg. 116). If [On (Auto reset)] or [On] is selected, the 0 at the center of the exposure display will blink even when exposure compensation is set to ±0. Option K On (Auto reset) On Off (default) Description Exposure compensation is set by rotating one of the command dials (see note below).
b5: Center-Weighted Area When calculating exposure, centerweighted metering assigns the greatest weight to a circle in the center of the frame. The diameter (φ ) of this circle can be set to 6, 8, 10, or 13 mm or to the average of the entire frame. L M N O P Option φ 6 mm φ 8 mm (default) φ 10 mm φ 13 mm Average Note that the diameter is fixed at 8 mm when a non-CPU lens is used, regardless of the setting selected for [Non-CPU lens data] in the setup menu (pg. 198).
2 Select [Yes]. The message shown at right will be displayed; highlight [Yes] and press 2 to proceed, or select [No] to exit without altering exposure. 3 Select a metering method. Highlight [Matrix metering], [Center-weighted], or [Spot metering] and press 2. 4 Choose an exposure value. Press 1 or 3 to choose an exposure value from +1 to –1 EV. Press J to save changes and exit.
c: Timers/AE Lock c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L At the default setting of [Off ], exposure only locks when the AE-L/ AF-L button is pressed. If [On] is selected, exposure will also lock when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. c2: Auto Meter-off Delay This option controls how long the camera continues to meter exposure when no operations are performed. Choose from 4 s, 6 s, 8 s, 16 s, 30 s, 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or until the camera is turned off ([No limit]).
c3: Self-Timer Delay This option controls the length of the shutter release delay in self-timer mode. Choose from 2 s, 5 s, 10 s, and 20 s. Option a 2s b 5s c 10 s (default) d 20 s c4: Monitor off Delay This option controls how long the monitor remains on when no operations are performed. Choose from 10 s, 20 s, 1 minute, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes. Choose a shorter monitor-off delay for longer battery life.
d: Shooting/Display d1: Beep Choose [High] or [Low] to sound a beep when the self timer is used or the camera focuses in single-servo autofocus (note that a beep will not sound if [Release] is selected for Custom Setting a2 ([AF-S priority selection], pg. 268). Option High y (default) z Low Off Description Choose the pitch of the beep from [High] and [Low]. A c icon is displayed in the control panel and shooting information displays. Turn the beep speaker off.
d3: Viewfinder Warning Display Choose whether low battery warning is displayed in the viewfinder. Option Description On A low battery (I) icon is displayed when the battery is low. (default) Off Low battery warning is not displayed in the viewfinder. d4: CL Mode Shooting Speed This option determines the maximum frame advance rate in CL (continuous low speed) mode (during interval timer photography, this setting also determines the frame advance rate for singleframe mode).
d6: File Number Sequence When a photograph is taken, the camera names the file by adding one to the last file number used. This option controls whether file numbering continues from the last number used when a new folder is created, the memory card is formatted, or a new memory card is inserted in the camera.
d7: Shooting Info Display At the default setting of [Auto] (AUTO), the color of the lettering in the information display (pg. 12) will automatically change from black to white or white to black to maintain contrast with the background. To always use the same color lettering, select [Manual] and choose [Dark on light] (B; black lettering) or [Light on dark] (W; white lettering). Monitor brightness will automatically be adjusted for maximum contrast with the selected text color.
d8: LCD Illumination At the default setting of [Off ], the control panel backlight (LCD illuminator) will only light while the power switch is in the D position. If [On] is selected, the control panel will be illuminated while the exposure meters are active (pg. 46). Select [Off ] for increased battery life. d9: Exposure Delay Mode At the default setting of [Off ], shutter is released when the shutterrelease button is pressed. When shooting with [Tripod] selected in live view mode (pg.
A Using AA Batteries EN-EL4a or EN-EL4 rechargeable Li-ion batteries (available separately) or EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion batteries are recommended for best performance. Fewer pictures can be taken with AA batteries (pg. 414). The capacity of AA batteries drops sharply at temperatures below 20 °C (68 °F) and varies with make and storage conditions; in some cases, batteries may cease to function before their expiry date.
d11: Battery Order Choose whether the battery in the camera or the batteries in the battery pack are used first when an optional MB-D10 battery pack is attached. Option Use MB-D10 batteries 5 first (default) Use camera battery 6 first Description The camera battery is used only when the batteries in the MB-D10 are exhausted. The batteries in the MB-D10 are used only when the camera battery is exhausted. A X icon is displayed in the camera control panel when the batteries in the MB-D10 are in use.
e: Bracketing/Flash e1: Flash Sync Speed This option controls flash sync speed. Option Description Use auto FP high-speed sync with SB-800, SB-600, and SB-R200 flash units. If other flash units are used, shutter speed is set to 1/320 s. When the camera 1/320 s (Auto FP) shows a shutter speed of 1/320 s in exposure mode e or g, auto FP high-speed sync will be activated if the actual shutter speed is faster than 1/320 s. Use auto FP high-speed sync with SB-800, SB-600, and SB-R200 flash units.
Flash Control at [1/320 s (Auto FP)] When [1/320 s (Auto FP)] is selected for Custom Setting e1 ([Flash sync speed], pg. 288), the built-in flash can be used at shutter speeds as fast as 1/320 s, while optional SB-800, SB-600, and SB-R200 flash units can be used at any shutter speed (Auto FP High-Speed Sync).
Note, however, that flash range will drop at shutter speeds between 1/250 and 1/320 s. The effective Guide Number varies with zoom angle as shown below. Zoom angle 14 mm 17 mm 24 mm 28 mm 35 mm 50 mm 70 mm 85 mm 105 mm Guide No. * 17/56 19/62 30/98 32/105 38/125 44/144 50/164 53/174 56/184 * ISO 200, m/ft., 20 °C (68 °F), SB-800 Calculating Flash Range D (maximum range) = GN (Guide Number) ÷ f-number (aperture) For example, at a zoom angle of 35 mm, an aperture of f/5.
e2: Flash Shutter Speed This option determines the slowest shutter speed available when using front- or rear-curtain sync or red-eye reduction in programmed auto or aperture-priority auto exposure modes (regardless of the setting chosen, shutter speeds can be as slow as 30 s in shutter-priority auto and manual exposure modes or at flash settings of slow sync, slow rear-curtain sync, or red-eye reduction with slow sync). Options range from 1/60 s ([1/60 s], the default setting) to 30 s ([30 s]).
❚❚ Manual Choose a flash level between [Full] and [1/128] (1/128 of full power). At full power, the built-in flash has a Guide Number of 18/59 (m/ft., ISO 200, 20°C/68°F).
❚❚ Repeating Flash The flash fires repeatedly while the shutter is open, producing a strobe-light effect. Press 4 or 2 to highlight the following options, 1 or 3 to change. Option Output Description Choose flash output (expressed as a fraction of full power). Choose the number of times the flash fires at the selected output. Note that depending on shutter speed and the Times option selected for [Frequency], the actual number of flashes may be less than selected.
❚❚ Commander Mode Use the built-in flash as a master flash controlling one or more remote optional SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 flash units in up to two groups (A and B) using advanced wireless lighting. Selecting this option displays the menu shown at right. Press 4 or 2 to highlight the following options, 1 or 3 to change. U 294 Option Description Built-in Choose a flash mode for the built-in flash (commander flash). flash i-TTL mode. Choose flash compensation from values between TTL +3.0 and –3.
Follow the steps below to take photographs in commander mode. 1 Adjust settings for the built-in flash. Choose the flash control mode and output level for the built-in flash. Note that output level can not be adjusted in [– –] mode. 2 Adjust settings for group A. Choose the flash control mode and output level for the flash units in group A. 3 Adjust settings for group B. Choose the flash control mode and output level for the flash units in group B. 4 Select the channel. 5 Press J.
6 Compose the shot. Compose the shot and arrange the flash units as shown below. Note that the maximum distance at which the remote flash units can be placed may vary with shooting conditions. 60 ° or less 10 m/33 ft. or less 30 ° or less 30 ° or less 60 ° or less 7 5 m/15 ft. or less Wireless remote sensors on flash units should face camera. Camera (built-in flash) 5 m/15 ft. or less Set the remote flash units to the selected channel.
A The Flash Sync Mode Display M does not appear in the control panel flash sync mode display when [– –] is selected for [Built-in flash] > [Mode]. A Flash Compensation The flash compensation value selected with the Y (M) button and subcommand dial is added to the flash compensation values selected for the built-in flash, group A, and group B in the [Commander mode] menu.
e4: Modeling Flash If [On] (the default setting) is selected when the camera is being used with the built-in flash or an optional SB-800, SB-600, or SBR200 flash unit, a modeling flash will be emitted when the camera depth-of-field preview button is pressed (pg. 105). No modeling flash is emitted if [Off ] is selected. e5: Auto Bracketing Set Choose the setting or settings bracketed when auto bracketing (pg. 118) is in effect.
e6: Auto Bracketing (Mode M) This option determines which settings are affected when [AE & flash] or [AE only] is selected for Custom Setting e5 in manual exposure mode. Option F G H I Description Camera varies shutter speed (Custom Setting e5 Flash/speed set to [AE only]) or shutter speed and flash level (default) (Custom Setting e5 set to [AE & flash]).
e7: Bracketing Order At the default setting of [MTR]>[under]>[over] (H), bracketing is performed in the order described on pages 120 and 124. If [Under]>[MTR]>[over] (I) is selected, shooting will proceed in order from the lowest to the highest value.
f: Controls f1: Multi Selector Center Button This option determines what operations can be performed by pressing the center of the multi selector in shooting and playback modes. ❚❚ Shooting Mode Selecting [Shooting mode] displays the following options: J Option Select center focus point (default) Highlight active K focus point Not used Description Pressing the center of the multi selector in shooting mode selects the center focus point.
Option Choose u folder Description Pressing center of multi selector displays list of folders. Highlight folder and press J to select folder for playback. Folder can not be changed if only one folder exists of if [Current] is selected for [Playback folder] (pg. 249). f2: Multi Selector If [Reset meter-off delay] is selected, operating the multi selector when the exposure meters are off (pg. 46) will activate the exposure meters.
f4: Assign FUNC. Button Choose the role played by the Fn button, either by itself ([FUNC. button press]) or when used in combination with the command dials ([FUNC. button+dials]). ❚❚ FUNC. Button Press Selecting [FUNC. button press] for Custom Setting f4 displays the following options: Option q r B C D E F s Description Press the Fn button to preview depth of field Preview * (pg. 105).
Option Bracketing t burst Matrix L metering Center- M weighted Spot N metering None (default) Description If the Fn button is pressed while exposure or flash bracketing is active in single frame release mode, all shots in the current bracketing program will be taken each time the shutter-release button is pressed.
❚❚ FUNC. Button+Dials Selecting [FUNC. button+dials] for Custom Setting f4 displays the following options: Option v w t I Description If the Fn button is pressed when the command 1 step spd/ dials are rotated, changes to shutter speed aperture (exposure modes S and M) and aperture (exposure modes A and M) are made in increments of 1 EV. Choose non- Press the Fn button and rotate a command dial to CPU lens choose a lens number specified using the [Nonnumber CPU lens data] option.
f5: Assign Preview Button Choose the role played by the depth-of-field preview button, either by itself ([Preview button press]) or when used in combination with the command dials ([Preview + command dials]). The options available are the same as for [FUNC. button press] (pg. 303) and [FUNC. button+dials] (pg. 305), except that the default option for [Preview button press] is [Preview] and the default setting for [Preview + command dials] is [None].
f6: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button Choose the role played by the AE-L/AF-L button, either by itself ([AE-L/AF-L button press]) or when used in combination with the command dials ([AE-L/AF-L+command dials]). The options available for [AE-L/AF-L button press] are the same as for [FUNC. button press] (pg.
f7: Customize Command Dials This option controls the operation of the main and sub-command dials. Option Reverse rotation Change main/sub Aperture setting U 308 Description Controls the direction of the command dials. Choose [No] (the default option) for normal command dial operation, or [Yes] to reverse the rotation of the command dials. This setting also applies to the command dials for the MB-D10.
Option Description At the default setting of [Off ], the multi selector is used to choose the picture displayed during full-frame playback, highlight thumbnails, and navigate menus. If [On] is selected, the main command dial can be used to choose the picture displayed during full-frame playback, move the cursor left or right during thumbnail playback, and move the menu Menus highlight bar up or down.
f9: No Memory Card? At the default setting of [Enable release], the shutter can be released when no memory card is inserted, although no pictures will be recorded (they will however be displayed in the monitor in demo mode). If [Release locked] is selected, the shutter-release button is only enabled when a memory card is inserted in the camera.
f10: Reverse Indicators At the default setting of (V), the exposure indicators in the control panel, viewfinder and shooting information display are displayed with positive values on the left (W) to and negative values on the right. Select display negative values on the left and positive values on the right.
B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup The setup menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the setup menu, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus” (pg. 24).
Format Memory Card Format the card. Note that formatting permanently deletes all pictures and other data on the card. Before formatting, be sure to make backup copies as required. D During Formatting Do not turn the camera off or remove memory cards during formatting. A Two-Button Format Memory cards can also be formatted by pressing the Q (O and I) buttons for about two seconds (pg. 41). LCD Brightness Press 1 or 3 to choose from seven settings for monitor brightness.
Clean Image Sensor Select this option to remove dust from the image sensor or to choose options for automatic image sensor cleaning (pg. 371). Lock Mirror up for Cleaning Lock the mirror in the up position to allow inspection or manual cleaning of the low-pass filter that protects the camera image sensor (pg. 374). Video Mode When connecting the camera to a television or VCR via the video connector, be sure the camera video mode matches the device video standard (NTSC or PAL).
HDMI The camera is equipped with an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connector, allowing pictures to be played back on high-definition televisions or monitors using a type A cable (available separately from commercial suppliers). Before connecting the camera to high-definition device, choose the HDMI format from the options below.
World Time Change time zones, set the camera clock, choose the date display order, and turn daylight saving time on or off. Option Description Choose a time zone. The camera clock is automatically Time zone set to the time in the new time zone. Date and time Set the camera clock (pg. 36). Choose the order in which the day, month, and year are Date format displayed. Turn daylight saving time on or off. The camera clock Daylight will automatically be advanced or set back one hour.
Image Comment Add a comment to new photographs as they are taken. Comments can be viewed in ViewNX or Capture NX (available separately] (pg. 367). The comment is also visible on the third page of the photo information display. • [Done]: Save changes and return to the setup menu. • [Input comment]: Input a comment as described on page 256. Comments can be up to 36 characters long. • [Attach comment]: Select this option to attach the comment to all subsequent photographs.
Auto Image Rotation Photographs taken while [On] (the default option) is selected contain information on camera orientation, allowing them to be rotated automatically during playback (pg. 251) or when viewed in ViewNX or Capture NX (available separately) (pg. 367). The following orientations are recorded: Landscape (wide) orientation Camera rotated 90° clockwise Camera rotated 90° counter-clockwise Camera orientation is not recorded when [Off ] is selected.
USB Choose a USB option for connection to a computer or PictBridge printer. Choose [MTP/PTP] (the default setting) when connecting to a PictBridge printer or an optional WT-4 wireless transmitter or when using Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately; see page 367). See page 225 for information on selecting a USB option for use with Nikon Transfer. Dust off Ref Photo Acquire reference data for the Image Dust Off option in Capture NX (available separately; for more information, see the Capture NX manual).
1 Choose a start option. Highlight one of the following options and press J. To exit without acquiring image dust off data, press G. • [Start]: The message shown at right will be displayed and “rEF” will appear in the viewfinder and control panel displays. • [Clean sensor and then start]: Select this option to clean the image sensor before starting. The message shown at right will be displayed and “rEF” will appear in the viewfinder and control panel displays when cleaning is complete.
3 Acquire dust off reference data. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to acquire Image Dust Off reference data. The monitor turns off when the shutter-release button is pressed. If the reference object is too bright or too dark, the camera may be unable to acquire Image Dust Off reference data and the message shown at right will be displayed. Choose another reference object and repeat the process from step 1.
Battery Info View information on the battery currently inserted in the camera. Item Bat. meter Description The current battery level expressed as a percentage. The number of times the shutter has been released with the current battery since the battery was last charged. Note Pic. meter that the camera may sometimes release the shutter without recording a photograph, for example when measuring preset white balance.
A The MB-D10 Battery Pack The information displayed when the camera is powered by an optional MB-D10 battery pack depends on the type of batteries used: EN-EL3e EN-EL4a/EN-EL4 (option) 8 × AA (option) Bat. meter ✔ ✔ ✔ Pic. meter ✔ ✔ — Calibration — ✔ — Charging life ✔ ✔ — Wireless Transmitter This option is used to adjust settings for connection to a wireless network, using an optional WT-4 wireless transmitter. See “Connections: Wireless and Ethernet Networks” (pg. 229).
Image Authentication Choose whether to embed image authentication information in new photographs as they are taken, allowing alterations to be detected using Nikon’s optional Image Authentication software. Image authentication information can not be embedded in existing photographs. Photographs taken with image authentication on are marked with a p icon on the file information and overview pages of the photo information display (pp. 209, 217).
Save/Load Settings Select [Save settings] to save the following settings to the camera memory card (if the memory card is full, an error will be displayed; pg. 391). Menu Playback Shooting (all banks) Option Display mode Image review After delete Rotate tall Shooting menu bank File naming Image quality Image size JPEG compression NEF (RAW) recording White balance (with fine tuning and presets d-0–d-4) Set Picture Control Color space Active D-Lighting Long exp.
Menu Setup My Menu Option Clean image sensor Video mode HDMI World time (excepting date and time) Language Image comment Auto image rotation USB Image authentication GPS Non-CPU lens data All My Menu items Settings saved using the D300 can be restored by selecting [Load settings]. Note that [Save/load settings] is only available when a memory card is inserted in the camera, and that the [Load settings] option is only available if the card contains saved settings.
Non-CPU Lens Data By specifying lens data (lens focal length and maximum aperture) for up to nine non-CPU lenses, the user can gain access to a variety of CPU lens functions (pg. 198). AF Fine Tune Fine-tune focus for up to 12 lenses. AF tuning is not recommended in most situations; use only when required. Option Description AF fine tune • [On]: Turn AF tuning on. (On/ • [Off ] (default): Turn AF tuning off. Off) Tune AF for the current lens (CPU Move focal lenses only).
Option Description List previously saved AF tuning values. If a value exists for the current lens, it will be shown with a V icon. To delete a lens from the list, highlight the desired lens and press O. To change a lens identifier (for example to choose an identifier that is the same as List the last two digits of the lens serial saved number to distinguish it from other values lenses of the same type), highlight the desired lens and press 2.
N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies The options in the retouch menu are used to create trimmed, or retouched copies of the photographs on the memory card. The retouch menu is only displayed when a memory card containing photographs is inserted in the camera. For information on using the retouch menu, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus” (pg. 24).
Creating Retouched Copies Except in the case of [Image overlay] (pg. 339) and [Side-by-side comparison] (pg. 342), the photographs to be retouched can be selected in full-frame playback as well as from the retouch menu. ❚❚ Creating Retouched Copies in Full-Frame Playback 1 Choose a picture. Display the desired picture in full-frame playback (pg. 206). 2 Display the retouch menu. Press J to display the retouch menu. 3 Select retouch options.
4 Create a retouched copy. Press J to create a retouched copy. Retouched copies are indicated by a N icon. ❚❚ Creating Retouched Copies from the Retouch Menu 1 Select an item in the retouch menu. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an item, 2 to select. Depending on the option selected, a menu may be displayed; highlight an option and press 2. 2 Select a picture. The pictures on the memory card will be displayed.
3 Display retouch options. Press J to display retouch options (see the section for the selected option for details). To exit without creating a retouched copy, press G. 4 Create a retouched copy. Press J to create a retouched copy. Retouched copies are indicated by a N icon.
D Retouching Copies Copies created with [Trim] can not be further modified. D-lighting, red-eye correction, filter effects, and color balance can not be applied to monochrome copies. Otherwise the options in the retouch menu can each be applied once to existing copies, although this may result in loss of detail. A Image Quality Except in the case of copies created with [Trim] (pg.
D-Lighting D-lighting brightens shadows, making it ideal for dark or backlit photographs. Before Press 1 or 3 to choose the amount of correction performed. The effect can be previewed in the edit display. Press J to copy the photograph.
Red-Eye Correction This option is used to correct “red-eye” caused by the flash, and is available only with photographs taken using the flash. The photograph selected for red-eye correction is previewed as shown at right. Confirm the effects of red-eye correction and create a copy as described in the following table.
Trim Create a cropped copy of the selected photograph. The selected photograph is displayed with the selected crop shown in yellow; create a cropped copy as described in the following table. To Use Reduce size of crop W Increase size of crop X Rotate the main command dial to switch between aspect ratios of 3 : 2, 4 : 3, and 5 : 4. Change crop aspect ratio Use multi selector to move the crop to another area of the image. Move crop Press center of multi selector to preview cropped image.
D Trim: Image Quality and Size Copies created from NEF (RAW), NEF (RAW) + JPEG, or TIFF (RGB) photos have an image quality (pg. 56) of JPEG fine; cropped copies created from JPEG photos have the same image quality as the original. The size of the copy varies with crop size and aspect ratio.
Filter Effects Choose from the following color filter effects. After adjusting filter effects as described below, press J to copy the photograph. Option Skylight Warm filter Description Creates the effect of a skylight filter, making the picture less blue. The effect can be previewed in the monitor as shown at right. Creates a copy with warm tone filter effects, giving the copy a “warm” red cast. The effect can be previewed in the monitor.
Image Overlay Image overlay combines two existing NEF (RAW) photographs to create a single picture that is saved separately from the originals with results that are noticeably better than photographs combined in an imaging application because they make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor. The new picture is saved at current image quality and size settings; before creating an overlay, set image quality and size (pp. 56, 60; all options are available).
4 Select the highlighted photograph. Press J to select the highlighted photograph and return to the preview display. The selected image will appear as [Image 1]. 5 Set gain. Optimize exposure for the overlay by pressing 1 or 3 to select the gain for image 1 from values between 0.1 and 2.0. The default value is 1.0; selecting 0.5 cuts gain in half, while selecting 2.0 doubles gain. The effects of gain are visible in the [Preview] column. 6 Select the second photograph.
8 Preview the overlay. Press 1 or 3 to highlight [Overlay] and press J (to save the overlay without displaying a preview, highlight [Save] and press J). To return to Step 7 and select new photos or adjust gain, press W. 9 Save the overlay. Press J while the preview is displayed to save the overlay. After an overlay is created, the resulting image will be displayed full-frame in the monitor. + D Image Overlay Only NEF (RAW) photographs created with the D300 can be selected for image overlay.
Side-by-Side Comparison Compare retouched copies to the original photographs. ❚❚ Making a Side-by-Side Comparison 1 Select a picture. Use the multi selector to select a picture and press J. Only retouched copies (shown by a N icon) or photographs that have been retouched can be selected. 2 Select [Side-by-side comparison]. Highlight [Side-by-side comparison] and press J.
3 Compare the copy with the original. Options used to created copy The source image is displayed on the left, the retouched copy on the right, with the options used to create the copy listed at the top of the display. Press Source Retouched the multi selector in the image copy direction indicated by the arrow adjacent to the highlighted image (1 3 4 or 2) to switch between the source image and the retouched copy. To view the highlighted picture full frame, press and hold the X button.
O My Menu: Creating a Custom Menu The [My Menu] option can be used to create and edit a customized list of options from the playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, and retouch menus for quick access. Options can be added, deleted, and reordered as described below. For information on basic menu operations, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus” (pg. 24). Adding Options to My Menu 1 Select [Add items]. In My Menu (O), highlight [Add items] and press 2 2 Select a menu.
4 Position the new item. Press 1 or 3 to move the new item up or down in My Menu. Press J to add the new item. 5 View My Menu. The items currently displayed in My Menu are indicated by a check mark. Items indicated by a V icon can not be selected. Repeat steps 1–4 to select additional items.
Deleting Options from My Menu 1 Select [Remove items]. In My Menu (O), highlight [Remove items] and press 2. 2 Select items. Highlight items and press 2 to select or deselect. Selected items are indicated by a check mark. 3 Select [Done]. Highlight [Done] and press J. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. 4 Delete the selected items. Press J to delete the selected items. A Deleting Items in My Menu To delete the item currently highlighted in My Menu, press the O button.
Reordering Options in My Menu 1 Select [Rank items]. In My Menu (O), highlight [Rank items] and press 2. 2 Select an item. Highlight the item you wish to move and press J. 3 Position the item. Press 1 or 3 to move the item up or down in My Menu and press J. Repeat Steps 2–3 to reposition additional items.
U 348
nTechnical Notes – Camera Care, Options, and Resources This chapter covers the following topics: Compatible Lenses......................................................... pg. 350 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights) ............................. pg. 357 Other Accessories........................................................... pg. 364 Caring for the Camera ................................................... pg. 370 Storage ...................................................................................
Compatible Lenses Camera setting Focus mode S C CPU lenses 1 Lens/accessory Type G or D AF Nikkor 2 ✔ AF-S, AF-I Nikkor 4 PC Micro 85mm f/2.
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 screen in viewfinder is not in focus. Adjust focus manually until image in viewfinder is in focus. With maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster. Some lenses can not be used (see page 352). Range of rotation for AI 80–200mm f/2.8S ED tripod mount is limited by camera body. Filters can not be exchanged while AI 200–400mm f/4S ED is mounted on camera. If maximum aperture is specified using [Non-CPU lens data] (pg.
D Incompatible Accessories and Non-CPU Lenses The following accessories and non-CPU lenses can NOT be used with the D300: • TC-16AS AF teleconverter • Non-AI lenses • Lenses that require the AU-1 focusing unit (400mm f/4.5, 600mm f/5.6, 800mm f/8, 1200mm f/11) • Fisheye (6mm f/5.6, 7.5mm f/5.6, 8mm f/8, OP 10mm f/5.6) • 21mm f/4 (old type) • K2 rings • ED 180–600mm f/8 (serial numbers 174041–174180) • ED 360–1200mm f/11 (serial numbers 174031–174127) • 200–600mm f/9.
A The AF-S/AF-I Teleconverter The AF-S/AF-I teleconverter can be used with the following AF-S and AF-I lenses: • AF-S VR Micro 105mm f/2.8G ED 1 • AF-S VR 200mm f/2G ED • AF-S VR 300mm f/2.8G ED • AF-S 300mm f/2.8D ED II • AF-S 300mm f/2.8D ED • AF-I 300mm f/2.8D ED • AF-S 300mm f/4D ED 2 • AF-S 400mm f/2.8D ED II • AF-S 400mm f/2.8D ED • AF-I 400mm f/2.
A The Built-in Flash The built-in flash can be used with CPU lenses with focal lengths of 18– 300mm. Remove lens hoods to prevent shadows. The flash has a minimum range of 60 cm (2 ft.) and can not be used in the macro range of macro zoom lenses. The flash may be unable to light the entire subject with the following lenses at ranges less than those given below: Lens AF-S DX 12–24mm f/4G ED AF-S 17–35mm f/2.8D ED AF-S DX 17–55mm f/2.8G ED AF 18–35mm f/3.5–4.5D ED AF-S DX 18–135mm f/3.5–5.
D Red-Eye Reduction Lenses that block the subject’s view of the AF-assist illuminator may interfere with red-eye reduction. D AF-Assist Illumination AF-assist illumination is not available with the following lenses: • AF-S VR 200mm f/2G • AF-S VR 200–400mm f/4G ED At ranges under 0.7m (2ft. 4in.), the following lenses may block the AFassist illuminator and interfere with autofocus when lighting is poor: • AF Micro 200mm f/4D ED • AF-S VR 24–120mm f/3.5–5.6G ED • AF Micro 70–180mm f/4.5–5.
A Calculating Picture Angle The size of the area exposed by a 35-mm camera is 36 × 24 mm. The size of the area exposed by the D300, in contrast, is approximately 23.6 × 15.8 mm, meaning that the diagonal picture angle of a 35-mm camera is approximately 1.5 times that of the D300. To calculate the focal length of lenses for the D300 in 35-mm format, multiply the focal length of the lens by 1.5 (for example, the effective focal length of a 24-mm lens in 35-mm format would be 36 mm when mounted on the D300).
Optional Flash Units (Speedlights) The D300 can be used with CLS-compatible flash units. The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) Nikon’s advanced Creative Lighting System (CLS) offers improved communication between the camera and compatible flash units for improved flash photography. The Creative Lighting System supports the following features: • i-TTL flash control: Improved through-the-lens (TTL) flash control for use with CLS (see page 172).
❚❚ CLS-Compatible Flash Units The D300 can be used with the following CLS-compatible flash units: the SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, SB-R200, and SU-800. The SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 The principal features of these flash units are listed below. Flash unit Feature Guide ISO 100 No.
The following features are available with the SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, SB-R200, and SU-800: Flash unit Flash mode/feature i-TTL balanced fill-flash i-TTL for digital SLR AA Auto aperture A Non-TTL auto GN Range-priority manual M Manual RPT Repeating flash Auto FP High-Speed Sync 7 FV lock AF-assist for multi-area AF 8 Flash Color Information Communication REAR Rear-curtain sync Y Red-eye reduction Auto zoom Advanced Wireless Lighting Commander Remote SB-800 SB-600 SB-400 SB-800 SU-800 1 SB-800 SB-600 SB-R20
Other Flash Units The following flash units can be used in non-TTL auto and manual modes. If they are set to TTL, the camera shutter-release button will lock and no photographs can be taken. Speedlight Flash mode A Non-TTL auto M Manual G Repeating flash REAR Rear-curtain sync SB-80DX, SB-28DX, SB-28, SB-26, SB-25, SB-24 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ SB-50DX — ✔ — ✔ SB-30, SB-27 1, SB-23, SB-29 2, SB-22S, SB-22, SB-21B 2, SB-20, SB-29S 2 SB-16B, SB-15 ✔ — ✔ ✔ — — ✔ ✔ 1.
D Notes on Optional Speedlights Refer to the Speedlight manual for detailed instructions. If the Speedlight supports the Nikon Creative Lighting System, refer to the section on CLScompatible digital SLR cameras. The D300 is not included in the “digital SLR” category in the SB-80DX, SB-28DX, and SB-50DX manuals. i-TTL flash control can be used at ISO sensitivities between 200 and 3200. At values over 3200, the desired results may not be achieved at some ranges or aperture settings.
In programmed auto, the maximum aperture (minimum f-number) is limited according to sensitivity (ISO equivalency), as shown below: Maximum aperture at ISO equivalent of: 200 5 400 5.6 800 7.1 1600 8 3200 10 For each one-step increase in sensitivity (e.g., from 200 to 400), aperture is stopped down by half an f-stop. If the maximum aperture of the lens is smaller than given above, the maximum value for aperture will be the maximum aperture of the lens.
Flash Contacts The D300 is equipped with an accessory shoe for attaching optional flash units directly to the camera and a sync terminal that allows flash units to be connected via a sync cable. ❚❚ The Accessory Shoe Use the accessory shoe to mount optional flash units directly on the camera without a sync cable (pg. 358). The accessory shoe is equipped with a safety lock for Speedlights with a locking pin, such as the SB-800, SB-600 and SB-400.
Other Accessories At the time of writing, the following accessories were available for the D300. • Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e (pp. 30, 32): Additional EN-EL3e batteries are available from local retailers and Nikon service representatives. The EN-EL3e can be recharged using an MH-18a or MH-18 quick charger. • Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10: The MB-D10 takes one rechargeable Nikon EN-EL3e, EN-EL4a, or EN-EL4 Li-ion battery or eight AA alkaline, NiMH, lithium, or nickelmanganese batteries.
Viewfinder eyepiece accessories • Diopter-Adjustment Viewfinder Lens DK-20C: To accommodate individual differences in vision, viewfinder lenses are available with diopters of –5, –4, –3, –2, 0, +0.5, +1, +2, and +3 m–1. Use diopter adjustment lenses only if the desired focus can not be achieved with the built-in diopter adjustment control (–2 to +1 m–1). Test diopter adjustment lenses before purchase to ensure that the desired focus can be achieved.
• Nikon filters can be divided into three types: screw-in, slip-in, and rear-interchange. Use Nikon filters; filters manufactured by other makers may interfere with autofocus or electronic range finding. • The D300 can not be used with linear polarizing filters. Use the C-PL circular polarizing filter instead. • The NC and L37C filters are recommended for protecting Filters the lens.
Software • Capture NX: A complete photo editing package. • Camera Control Pro 2: Control the camera remotely from a computer and save photographs directly to the computer hard disk. • Image Authentication: Determine whether photographs taken with image authentication (pg. 324) on have been modified after shooting. Note: Use the latest versions of Nikon software. Most Nikon software offers an auto update feature when the computer is connected to the Internet.
The D300 is equipped with a tenpin remote terminal for remote control and automatic Remote photography. The terminal is terminal provided with a cap, which protects accessories the contacts when the terminal is not in use.
❚❚ Approved Memory Cards The following cards have been tested and approved for use in the D300: SanDisk Lexar Media Extreme IV SDCFX4 Extreme III SDCFX3 Ultra II SDCFH Standard SDCFB 8 GB 4 GB 2 GB 8 GB 4 GB 2 GB 1 GB 8 GB 4 GB 2 GB 1 GB 4 GB 2 GB 1 GB Professional UDMA Platinum II Professional Microdrive DSCM-11000 3K4-2 3K4-4 3K6 8 GB 4 GB 2 GB 2 GB 80 × 1 GB 512 MB 60 × 4 GB 8 GB 4 GB 133 × WA 2 GB 1 GB 2 GB 80 × Lt 512 MB 300 × 1 GB 2 GB 4 GB 6 GB Other cards have not been tested.
Caring for the Camera Storage When the camera will not be used for an extended period, replace the monitor cover, remove the battery, and store the battery in a cool, dry area with the terminal cover in place. To prevent mold or mildew, store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area.
The Low-Pass Filter The image sensor that acts as the camera’s picture element is fitted with a low-pass filter to prevent moiré. If you suspect that dirt or dust on the filter is appearing in photographs, you can clean the filter using the [Clean image sensor] option in the setup menu. The filter can be cleaned at any time using the [Clean now] option, or cleaning can be performed automatically when the camera is turned on or off. ❚❚ “Clean Now” 1 Place the camera base down.
3 Select [Clean now]. Highlight [Clean now] and press 2. The message shown at right will be displayed while cleaning is in progress. The message shown at right will be displayed when cleaning is complete. ❚❚ “Clean at Startup/Shutdown” 1 Select [Clean at startup/ shutdown]. Display the [Clean image sensor] menu as described in Step 2 on the previous page. Highlight [Clean at startup/ shutdown] and press 2.
2 Select an option. Highlight one of the following options and press J. Option Description The image sensor is automatically cleaned 5 Clean at startup each time the camera is turned on. The image sensor is automatically cleaned Clean at 6 during shutdown each time the camera is shutdown turned off. Clean at startup The image sensor is cleaned automatically at 7 & shutdown startup and at shutdown. Cleaning off 8 Automatic image sensor cleaning off.
❚❚ Manual Cleaning If foreign matter can not be removed from the low-pass filter using the [Clean image sensor] (pg. 371) option in the setup menu, the filter can be cleaned manually as described below. Note, however, that the filter is extremely delicate and easily damaged. Nikon recommends that the filter be cleaned only by Nikon-authorized service personnel. 1 Charge the battery or connect an AC adapter. A reliable power source is required when inspecting or cleaning the low-pass filter.
4 Raise the mirror. Press the shutter-release button all the way down. The mirror will be raised and the shutter curtain will open, revealing the low-pass filter. The display in the viewfinder will turn off and the row of dashes in the control panel will blink. 5 Examine the low-pass filter. Holding the camera so that light falls on the low-pass filter, examine the filter for dust or lint. If no foreign objects are present, proceed to Step 7. 6 Clean the filter.
D Use a Reliable Power Source The shutter curtain is delicate and easily damaged. If the camera powers off while the mirror is raised, the curtain will close automatically. To prevent damage to the curtain, observe the following precautions: • Do not turn the camera off or remove or disconnect the power source while the mirror is raised.
Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions Do not drop: The product may malfunction if subjected to strong shocks or vibration. Keep dry: This product is not waterproof, and may malfunction if immersed in water or exposed to high levels of humidity. Rusting of the internal mechanism can cause irreparable damage. Avoid sudden changes in temperature: Sudden changes in temperature, such as occur when entering or leaving a heated building on a cold day, can cause condensation inside the device.
Cleaning: When cleaning the camera body, use a blower to gently remove dust and lint, then wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. After using the camera at the beach or seaside, wipe off any sand or salt using a cloth lightly dampened in pure water and then dry the camera thoroughly. In rare instances, static electricity may cause the LCD displays to light up or go dark. This does not indicate a malfunction, and the display will soon return to normal. The lens and mirror are easily damaged.
Turn the product off before removing or disconnecting the power source: Do not unplug the product or remove the battery while the product is on or while images are being recorded or deleted. Forcibly cutting power in these circumstances could result in loss of data or in damage to product memory or internal circuitry. To prevent an accidental interruption of power, avoid carrying the product from one location to another while the AC adapter is connected.
Batteries: Dirt on the battery terminals can prevent the camera from functioning and should be removed with a soft, dry cloth before use. Batteries may leak or explode if improperly handled. Observe the following precautions when handling batteries: Turn the product off before replacing the battery. The battery may become hot when used for extended periods. Observe due caution when handling the battery. Use only batteries approved for use in this equipment.
Troubleshooting If the camera fails to function as expected, check the list of common problems below before consulting your retailer or Nikon representative. Refer to the page numbers in the right-most column for more information. ❚❚ Display Problem Solution Page Adjust viewfinder focus or use Viewfinder is out of focus. 43 optional diopter adjustment lenses. Viewfinder is dark. Insert a fully-charged battery.
❚❚ Shooting Problem Solution Camera takes time to turn Delete files or folders. on. • Memory card is full or not inserted. • CPU lens with aperture ring attached but aperture not locked at highest f-number. If B is displayed in control panel, select Shutter-release disabled. [Aperture ring] for Custom Setting f7 ([Customize command dials]) > [Aperture setting] to use lens aperture ring to adjust aperture. • Exposure mode S selected with A selected for shutter speed. Photos are out of focus.
Problem Solution Page Flash in use. Flash sync speed can be selected using Custom Setting e1 ([Flash sync speed]); when using optional SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 Speedlight, choose [1/320 s (Auto FP)] or [1/250 s (Auto FP)] for full range of shutter speeds. 288 Focus does not lock when Camera is in focus mode C: use AE-L/ shutter-release button is AF-L button to lock focus. pressed halfway. 69 Image size can not be changed. 56 Full range of shutter speeds not available.
Problem Randomly-spaced bright pixels (“noise”) appear in photos. Solution Page • Choose lower ISO sensitivity or turn high ISO noise reduction on. • Shutter speed is slower than 8 s: use long exposure noise reduction. 96, 263 • Camera is in focus mode C. • Center focus point is not selected for single-point AF or dynamicarea AF. • [Off ] selected for Custom Setting AF-assist illuminator does a9 ([Built-in AF-assist not light. illuminator]). • Illuminator has turned off automatically.
Problem Solution Image can not be selected as source for preset white Image was not created with D300. balance. • NEF (RAW) or NEF+JPEG image quality option selected for image White balance bracketing quality. unavailable. • Multiple exposure mode is in effect. Page 142 56 189 Effects of Picture Control differ from image to image. A (auto) is selected for sharpening, contrast, or saturation. For consistent results over a series of photographs, choose a setting other than A (auto).
❚❚ Playback Problem Solution Page Flashing areas appear in images Press 1 or 3 to choose photo Shooting data appear information displayed, or change on images settings for [Display mode]. A graph appears during playback. NEF (RAW) image is not played back. Photo was taken at image quality of NEF + JPEG. Some photos are not displayed during Select [All] for [Playback folder]. playback. 386 57 249 • Select [On] for [Rotate tall]. • Photo was taken with [Off ] selected for [Auto image rotation].
Problem Solution • Set [USB] to [MTP/PTP]. • NEF (RAW) and TIFF photos can not be printed by direct USB connection. Use Can not print photos. DPOF print service (TIFF images only) or transfer to computer and print using supplied software or Capture NX. Photo is not displayed on TV. Photo is not displayed on highdefinition video device. Page 319 230 Choose correct video mode. 314 Confirm that HDMI cable (available separately) is connected. 244 Can not copy photos Choose correct [USB] option.
Error Messages This section lists the indicators and error messages that appear in the viewfinder, control panel, and monitor. Indicator Control Viewpanel finder B (blinks) H d H d (blinks) (blinks) B (blinks) n 388 — Problem Solution Page Lens aperture ring is not set to minimum aperture. Set ring to minimum aperture (largest f-number). 35 Low battery. Ready a fully-charged spare battery. 44 • Battery exhausted. • Recharge or replace battery. • Battery can not be used.
Indicator Control Viewpanel finder F — Problem Solution No lens attached, or non-CPU lens attached without specifying Aperture value will be maximum aperture. displayed if maximum Aperture shown in aperture is specified. stops from maximum aperture. D Camera unable to focus Focus manually. (blinks) using autofocus. • Use a lower ISO sensitivity Page 198 71 96 • In exposure mode: q Subject too bright; photo will be overexposed.
Indicator Control Viewpanel finder Problem Solution • Use a higher ISO sensitivity Page 96 • In exposure mode: r A (blinks) Subject too dark; photo will be underexposed. A selected in exposure mode f. e Use flash f Lower shutter speed 173 g Choose a larger aperture (smaller f-number) 109 Change shutter speed or select manual exposure mode. Optional flash unit that Change flash mode c does not support i-TTL setting on optional (blinks) flash control attached flash unit. (blinks) and set to TTL.
Indicator Control Viewpanel finder — Problem Solution Check photo in If indicator blinks for 3s c monitor; if after flash fires, photo (blinks) underexposed, adjust may be underexposed. settings and try again. Memory insufficient to • Reduce quality or size. record further photos n j at current settings, or • Delete photographs. (blinks) (blinks) camera has run out of • Insert new memory file or folder numbers. card. O (blinks) Camera malfunction. Release shutter.
Indicator Monitor No memory card. Control panel Problem Camera cannot S detect memory card. • Error accessing memory card. Solution Page Turn camera off and confirm that card is correctly inserted. 39 • Use Nikonapproved card. 369 This memory • Check that contacts card cannot — are clean. If card is be used. Card may be damaged, contact (blinks) damaged. retailer or Nikon Insert representative. another card. • Unable to create • Delete files or insert 39, 248 new folder. new memory card.
Indicator Monitor Control panel Problem Solution This card is not Memory card has Format memory card formatted. C not been formatted or insert new Format the (blinks) for use in camera. memory card. card. Folder contains no images. All images are hidden. File does not contain image data. Page 39,41 No images on memory card or in folder(s) selected for playback. Select folder containing images from [Playback folder] 39, 249 menu or insert different memory card.
Indicator Monitor Cannot select this file. n 394 Control panel — Problem Solution Memory card does Images created with not contain images other devices can not that can be be retouched. retouched. Check printer. To resume, select [Continue] (if available). Page 330 231 * Check printer. — Printer error. Check paper. — Insert paper of Paper in printer is correct size and select not of selected size. [Continue]. 231 * Paper jam. — Paper is jammed in Clear jam and select printer. [Continue].
Indicator Monitor Control panel Problem Solution Page Check ink supply. — Ink error. Check ink. To resume, select [Continue]. 231 * Out of ink. — Printer is out of ink. Replace ink and select [Continue]. 231 * * See printer manual for more information.
Appendix The Appendix covers the following topics: • Defaults ................................................................................................ pg. 397 • Memory Card Capacity .................................................................. pg. 402 • Exposure Program ........................................................................... pg. 404 • Aperture, Sensitivity, and Flash Range .................................... pg.
Defaults The following defaults are restored either with a two-button reset or using [Reset shooting menu] or [Reset custom settings]. ❚❚ Defaults Restored with a Two-Button Reset (pg. 184)1 Option Default [ISO sensitivity] (pg. 96) 200 [Image quality] (pg. 56) JPEG normal L Shooting [Image size] (pg. 60) menu 2 [White balance] (pg. 128) Auto Fine tuning (pg. 131) Off 5000 K Choose color temp. (pg. 135) Focus point (pg. 66) Center Exposure mode (pg. 104) Programmed auto Flexible program (pg.
❚❚ Defaults Restored with [Reset Shooting Menu] (pg. 257) 1 Option [File naming] (pg. 260) [Image quality] (pg. 56) [Image size] (pg. 60) [JPEG compression] (pg. 58) [NEF (RAW) recording] (pg. 58) [Type] [NEF (RAW) bit depth] [White balance] (pg. 128) Fine tuning (pg. 131) [Choose color temp.] (pg. 135) [Set Picture Control] (pg. 148) [Color space] (pg. 169) [Active D-lighting] (pg. 168) [Long exp. NR] (pg. 262) [High ISO NR] (pg. 263) [ISO sensitivity settings] (pg. 96) [ISO sensitivity] (pg.
❚❚ Defaults Restored with [Reset Custom Settings] (pg. 266) * a1 a2 a3 a4 a5 a6 a7 a8 a9 a10 b1 b2 b3 b4 b5 b6 c1 c2 c3 c4 Option [AF-C priority selection] (pg. 267) [AF-S priority selection] (pg. 268) [Dynamic AF area] (pg. 269) [Focus tracking with lock-on] (pg. 270) [AF activation] (pg. 271) [AF point illumination] (pg. 271) [Focus point wrap-around] (pg. 272) [AF point selection] (pg. 272) [Built-in AF-assist illuminator] (pg. 273) [AF-ON for MB-D10] (pg. 274) [ISO sensitivity step value] (pg.
d1 d2 d3 d4 d5 d6 d7 d8 d9 d10 d11 e1 e2 e3 e4 e5 e6 e7 n 400 Option [Beep] (pg. 281) [Viewfinder grid display] (pg. 281) [Viewfinder warning display] (pg. 282) [CL mode shooting speed] (pg. 282) [Max. continuous release] (pg. 282) [File number sequence] (pg. 283) [Shooting info display] (pg. 284) [LCD illumination] (pg. 285) [Exposure delay mode] (pg. 285) [MB-D10 battery type] (pg. 285) [Battery order] (pg. 287) [Flash sync speed] (pg. 288) [Flash shutter speed] (pg.
f1 f2 f3 f4 f5 f6 f7 f8 f9 f10 Option [Multi selector center button] (pg. 301) [Shooting mode] [Playback mode] [Multi selector] (pg. 302) [Photo info/playback] (pg. 302) [Assign FUNC. button] (pg. 303) [FUNC. button press] [FUNC. button+dials] [Assign preview button] (pg. 306) [Preview button press] [Preview+command dials] [Assign AE-L/AF-L button] (pg. 307) [AE-L/AF-L button press] [AE-L/AF-L+command dials] [Customize command dials] (pg. 308) [Reverse rotation] (pg. 308) [Change main/sub] (pg.
Memory Card Capacity The following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on a 2 GB SanDisk Extreme III (SDCFX) card at different image quality and size settings. Image quality NEF (RAW), Lossless compressed, 12-bit NEF (RAW), Lossless compressed, 14-bit 3 NEF (RAW), Compressed, 12-bit NEF (RAW), Compressed, 14-bit 3 NEF (RAW), Uncompressed, 12-bit NEF (RAW), Uncompressed, 14-bit 3 TIFF (RGB) JPEG fine 4 JPEG normal 4 JPEG basic 4 n 402 Image size File size 1 No.
1 All figures are approximate. File size varies with scene recorded. 2 Maximum number of exposures that can be stored in memory buffer. Drops if [Optimal quality] is selected for [JPEG compression], ISO sensitivity is set to P or higher, [High ISO NR] is on when auto ISO sensitivity control is on or ISO sensitivity is set to 800 or higher, or long exposure noise reduction, active Dlighting, or image authentication is on. 3 Maximum frame rate when recording 14-bit NEF (RAW) images is 2.5 fps.
Exposure Program The exposure program for programmed auto is shown in the following graph: 12 14 f/1 16 15 f/1.4 1 /3 17 17 18 19 f/5.6 f/8 20 f/2.8 f/1.4 − f/16 Aperture f/2 f/4 21 f/11 22 f/16 23 f/22 f/32 13 11 9 10 8 7 5 6 3 2 4 0 1 -1 -3 -2 ] V [E -4 ISO 200; lens with maximum aperture of f/1.4 and minimum aperture of f/16 (e.g., AF 50mm f/1.
Aperture, Sensitivity, and Flash Range The range of the built-in flash varies with sensitivity (ISO equivalency) and aperture. Aperture at ISO equivalent of 400 800 1600 2 2.8 4 2.8 4 5.6 4 5.6 8 5.6 8 11 8 11 16 11 16 22 16 22 32 22 32 — 200 1.4 2 2.8 4 5.6 8 11 16 Range 3200 5.6 8 11 16 22 32 — — m 1.0–8.5 0.7–6.1 0.6–4.2 0.6–3.0 0.6–2.1 0.6–1.5 0.6–1.1 0.6–0.8 ft. 3ft. 3in.–27ft. 11in. 2ft. 4in.–20ft. 2ft.–13ft. 9in. 2ft.–9ft. 10in. 2ft.–6ft. 11in. 2ft.–4ft. 11in. 2ft.–3ft. 7in. 2ft.–2ft. 7in.
Specifications ❚❚ Nikon D300 Digital Camera Type Type Single-lens reflex digital camera with interchangeable lenses Lens mount Nikon F mount (with AF coupling and AF contacts) Effective picture angle Approx. 1.5 × lens focal length (Nikon DX format) Effective pixels Effective pixels 12.3 million Image sensor Image sensor 23.6 × 15.8 mm CMOS sensor Total pixels 13.
Storage File system DCF (Design Rule for Camera File System) 2.0, DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), Exif 2.21 (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital Still Cameras), PictBridge Viewfinder Viewfinder Eye-level pentaprism single-lens reflex viewfinder Frame coverage Approx. 100% horizontal and 100% vertical Magnification Approx. 0.94 × (50-mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, –1.0 m–1) Eyepoint 19.5 mm (–1.
Shutter Type Electronically-controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter Speed 1/8000 Flash sync speed X= 1/250 s; synchronizes with shutter at 1/320 s or slower (flash range drops at speeds between 1/250 and 1/320 s) – 30 s in steps of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV, bulb, X250 Release Release mode S (single frame), CL (continuous low speed), CH (continuous high speed), a (live view), E (self-timer), MUP (mirror up) Frame advance rate • With EN-EL3e: Up to 6 fps • With optional MB-D10 multi-power battery pa
Exposure Flash bracketing 2–9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV White balance bracketing 2–9 frames in steps of 1, 2, or 3 Exposure lock Luminosity locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button ISO sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) ISO 200 – 3200 in steps of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV . Can also be set to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, or 1 EV (ISO 100 equivalent) below ISO 200 or to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, or 1 EV (ISO 6400 equivalent) above ISO 3200.
Flash Flash control • TTL: i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR using 1,005-segment RGB sensor are available with built-in flash and SB-800, SB-600, or SB-400 • Auto aperture: Available with SB-800 and CPU lens • Non-TTL auto: Supported flash units include SB-800, 28, 27, and 22s • Range-priority manual: Available with SB-800 Flash mode Front curtain sync, slow sync, rear-curtain sync, red-eye reduction, red-eye reduction with slow sync Flash compensation –3 – +1 EV in inc
Monitor Monitor 3-in., 920,000-dot (VGA), low-temperature polysilicon TFT LCD with 170 ° viewing angle, 100% frame coverage, and brightness adjustment Playback Playback Full-frame and thumbnail (four or nine images) playback with playback zoom, slide show, histogram display, auto image rotation, and image comment (up to 36 characters) Interface USB Hi-Speed USB Video output Can be selected from NTSC and PAL HDMI output Version 1.
Dimensions/weight Dimensions (W × H × D) Approx. 147 × 114 × 74 mm (5.8 × 4.5 × 2.9 in.) Weight Approx. 825 g (1. 82 lb.) without battery, memory card, body cap, or monitor cover Operating environment Temperature 0–40 °C (32–104 °F) Humidity Less than 85% (no condensation) • Unless otherwise stated, all figures are for a camera with a fully-charged battery operating at an ambient temperature of 20 °C (68 °F).
A Supported Standards • DCF Version 2.0: The Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF) is a standard widely used in the digital camera industry to ensure compatibility among different makes of camera. • DPOF: Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) is an industry-wide standard that allows pictures to be printed from print orders stored on the memory card. • Exif version 2.21: The camera supports Exif (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital Still Cameras) version 2.
A Battery Life The number of shots that can be taken with fully-charged batteries varies with the condition of the battery, temperature, and how the camera is used. In the case of AA batteries, capacity also varies with make and storage conditions; some batteries can not be used. Sample figures for the camera and optional MB-D10 multi-power battery pack are given below.
The following can reduce battery life: • Using the monitor • Keeping the shutter-release button pressed halfway • Repeated autofocus operations • Taking NEF (RAW) or TIFF (RGB) photographs • Slow shutter speeds • Using the optional WT-4 wireless transmitter • Using VR (vibration reduction) mode with VR lenses To ensure that you get the most from rechargeable Nikon EN-EL3e batteries: • Keep the battery contacts clean. Soiled contacts can reduce battery performance. • Use batteries immediately after charging.
Index Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).
Bracketing, 118, 298, 299 exposure, 118, 298, 299 flash, 118, 298, 299 white balance, 118, 123 [Bracketing order], 300 [Built-in AF-assist illuminator], 273 Bulb, 112 Burst, 188, 282, 304 C C, 62, 69, 267, 269 Camera Control Pro 2, 224, 225, 367 Center-weighted, 102, 277, 278 [Center-weighted area], 277 [CL mode shooting speed], 282 [Clean image sensor], 371 Clock, 37, 316 battery, 38 CLS, 357 [Color balance], 338 [Color space], 169 [Adobe RGB], 169 [sRGB], 169 Color space, 169 Color temperature, 129, 130,
Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).
[ISO sensitivity settings], 97 [ISO sensitivity], 97 [ISO sensitivity auto control], 98 [Maximum sensitivity], 98 [Minimum shutter speed], 98 [ISO sensitivity step value], 275 i-TTL, 172, 173, 294, 357 J JPEG, 56, 58 JPEG basic, 56 [JPEG compression], 58 [Optimal quality], 58 [Size priority], 58 JPEG fine, 56 JPEG normal, 56 L L, 60 LAN, 364 [Language], 36, 316 LCD, 46, 285, 313 [LCD brightness], 313 [LCD illumination], 285 Lens, 34, 198, 327, 350 attaching, 34 cap, 35 cap, rear, 34, 35 compatible, 350 CPU
Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).
[Set Picture Control], 150 [Monochrome], 150 [Filter effects], 153, 155 [Toning], 153, 155 [Neutral], 150 [Standard], 150 [Vivid], 150 Setup menu, 312 Shooting data, 212, 213, 214 [Shooting info display], 284 Shooting info display, 12, 284 Shooting menu, 254 [Shooting menu bank], 255 Shutter-priority auto, 108 Shutter-release button, 51, 52, 68, 114, 279 half press, 51, 52, 68, 114 [Shutter-release button AE-L], 279 [Side-by-side comparison], 342 Single-point AF, 64, 65 Size, 60 [Slide show], 252 [Frame int
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