User manual MINOLTA DIMAGE F100

E INSTRUCTION MANUAL 9222-2777-11 HA-A204 BEFORE YOU BEGIN Thank you for purchasing this Minolta digital camera. Please take the time to read through this instruction manual so you can enjoy all the features of your new camera. This manual contains information regarding products introduced before May, 2002. To obtain compatibility information for products released after this date, contact a Minolta Service Facility listed on the back cover of this manual. Check the packing list before using this product. If any items are missing, immediately contact your camera dealer. Minolta DiMAGE F100 digital camera CR-V3 battery Hand strap HS-DG100 16MB SD Memory Card AV cable AVC-200 USB cable USB-500 DiMAGE software CD-ROM DiMAGE Instruction Manuals CD-ROM Quick Reference Guide (printed) Warranty card (printed). 2 FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE Read and understand all warnings and cautions before using this product. WARNING Using batteries improperly can cause them to leak harmful solutions, overheat, or explode which may damage property or cause personal injury. Do not ignore the following warnings. · Only use the batteries specified in this instruction manual. · Do not install the batteries with the polarity (+/­) reversed. · Do not use batteries which show wear or damage. · Do not expose batteries to fire, high temperatures, water, or moisture. · Do not attempt to short or disassemble batteries. · Do not store batteries near or in metallic products. · Do not mix batteries of different types, brands, ages, or charge levels. · Do not charge alkaline batteries. · When recharging rechargeable batteries, only use the recommended charger. · Do not use leaking batteries. If fluid from the batteries enters your eye, immediately rinse the eye with plenty of fresh water and contact a doctor. If fluid from the batteries makes contact with your skin or clothing, wash the area thoroughly with water. · Use only the specified AC adapter within the voltage range indicated on the adapter unit. An inappropriate adapter or current may cause damage or injury through fire or electric shock. · Do not disassemble this product. Electric shock may cause injury if a high voltage circuit inside the product is touched. · Immediately remove the batteries or unplug the AC adapter and discontinue use if the camera is dropped or subjected to an impact in which the interior, especially the flash unit, is exposed. The flash has a high voltage circuit which may cause an electric shock resulting in injury. The continued use of a damaged product or part may cause injuries or fire. · Keep batteries or small parts that could be swallowed away from infants. Contact a doctor immediately if an object is swallowed. 3 FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE · Store this product out of reach of children. Be careful when around children, not to harm them with the product or parts. · Do not fire the flash directly into the eyes. It may damage eyesight. · Do not fire the flash at vehicle operators. It may cause a distraction or temporary blindness which may lead to an accident. · Do not use the monitor while operating a vehicle or walking. It may result in injury or an accident. · Do not use this product in a humid environment, or operate this product with wet hands. If liquid enters the product, immediately remove the batteries or unplug the AC adapter and discontinue use. The continued use of a product exposed to liquids may cause damage or injury through fire or electric shock. · Do not use the product near inflammable gases or liquids such as gasoline, benzine, or paint thinner. Do not use inflammable products such as alcohol, benzine, or paint thinner to clean the product. The use of inflammable cleaners and solvents may cause an explosion or fire. · When unplugging the AC adapter, do not pull on the power cord. Hold the adapter unit when removing it from an outlet. · Do not damage, twist, modify, heat, or place heavy objects on the AC adapter cord. A damaged cord may cause damage or injury through fire or electric shock. · If the product emits a strange odor, heat, or smoke, discontinue use. Immediately remove the batteries taking care not to burn yourself as the batteries become hot with use. The continued use of a damaged product or part may cause injuries or fire. · Take the product to a Minolta Service Facility when repairs are required 4 CAUTION · Do not use or store the product in a hot or humid environment such as the glove compartment or trunk of a car. It may damage the product and batteries which may result in burns or injuries caused by heat, fire, explosion, or leaking battery fluid. · If batteries are leaking, discontinue use of the product. · The camera temperature rises with extended periods of use. Care should be taken to avoid burns. · Burns may result if the memory card or batteries are removed immediately after extended periods of use. Turn the camera off and wait for it to cool. · Do not fire the flash while it is in contact with people or objects. The flash unit discharges a large amount of energy which may cause burns. · Do not apply pressure to the LCD monitor. A damaged monitor may cause injury, and the liquid from the monitor may cause inflammation. If liquid from the monitor makes contact with skin wash the area with fresh water. If liquid from the monitor comes in contact with the eyes, immediately rinse the eyes with plenty of water and contact a doctor. · When using the AC adapter, insert the plug securely into the electrical outlet. · Do not use if the AC adapter cord is damaged. · Do not cover the AC adapter. A fire may result. · Do not obstruct access to the AC adapter; this can hinder the unplugging of the unit in emergencies. · Unplug the AC adapter when cleaning or when the product is not in use. 5 TABLE OF CONTENTS About this manual The basic operation of this camera is covered between pages 14 and 38. This section of the manual covers the camera parts, preparation of the camera for use, and the basic camera operation for recording, viewing, and deleting images. The auto-recording mode section covers all the basic functions of the camera in this mode and the multi-function recording mode. Take time to read this section before moving on to the multi-function recording mode section. The other sections, movie recording mode, playback mode, setup mode, and data transfer mode, can be read as needed. Many of the features of this camera are controlled with menus. The menu navigation sections concisely describe how to change menu settings. Descriptions of the settings immediately follow the navigation sections. Names of parts.....................................................................................................................................10 Camera body ...........................................................................................................................10 Viewfinder ................................................................................................................................12 Mode dial .................................................................................................................................12 Data panel ...............................................................................................................................13 Getting up and running.........................................................................................................................14 Changing the CR-3V battery ...................................................................................................14 Installing AA batteries..............................................................................................................15 Attaching the hand strap .........................................................................................................15 Battery condition indicator .......................................................................................................16 Auto power save ......................................................................................................................16 Connecting the AC adapter (sold separately) .........................................................................16 Changing the memory card .....................................................................................................18 About memory cards........................................................................................................19 Setting the date and time ........................................................................................................20 Auto-recording mode ­ basic operation ...............................................................................................22 Handling the camera ...............................................................................................................22 Setting the camera to record images automatically ................................................................23 Using the zoom lens ................................................................................................................24 Focus range.............................................................................................................................24 6 About camera operation ..........................................................................................................25 Basic recording operation........................................................................................................26 Focus signals...........................................................................................................................27 Special focusing situations ......................................................................................................27 Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection ..........................................................................28 Digital-subject-program button.................................................................................................29 Display button ­ recording mode.............................................................................................31 Flash modes ............................................................................................................................32 Flash range ­ auto-recording mode ........................................................................................33 Flash signals............................................................................................................................33 Camera-shake warning ...........................................................................................................33 Quick View ...............................................................................................................................34 Quick View display ...........................................................................................................35 Deleting images in Quick View ........................................................................................35 Enlarged playback ...................................................................................................................36 Other Quick View features.......................................................................................................37 Navigating the auto-recording mode menu .............................................................................38 Drive modes ............................................................................................................................40 Continuous advance ................................................................................................................41 Self-timer .................................................................................................................................42 Remote control (sold separately) ............................................................................................43 Bracketing ................................................................................................................................44 Image size and image quality..................................................................................................46 Voice memo .............................................................................................................................48 Digital zoom .............................................................................................................................49 Focus area selection ...............................................................................................................50 Focus lock................................................................................................................................51 Exposure compensation ..........................................................................................................52 What is an Ev? What is a stop? ..............................................................................................53 Multi-function recording mode ­ advanced operation ..........................................................................54 Multi-function recording mode display .....................................................................................55 Navigating the multi-function recording mode menu ...............................................................56 Exposure modes......................................................................................................................58 Programmed AE ­ P........................................................................................................58 Aperture priority ­ A.........................................................................................................58 Shutter priority ­ S...........................................................................................................59 Manual exposure ­ M ......................................................................................................60 Bulb exposures ........................................................................................................................61 7 TABLE OF CONTENTS White balance..........................................................................................................................62 Automatic white balance ..................................................................................................62 Preset white balance .......................................................................................................62 Custom white balance .....................................................................................................63 Focus modes ...........................................................................................................................64 Single-shot AF .................................................................................................................64 Subject Tracking AF .........................................................................................................64 Manual focus....................................................................................................................65 Full-time AF .............................................................................................................................65 AF sensor display ....................................................................................................................66 Metering modes.......................................................................................................................66 Camera sensitivity ­ ISO.........................................................................................................67 Flash range and camera sensitivity .................................................................................67 Digital Effects Control ..............................................................................................................68 Date imprinting ........................................................................................................................70 Instant playback.......................................................................................................................71 A short guide to photography ...............................................................................................................72 Movie recording....................................................................................................................................74 Recording movies and audio with the RC-3 remote control (sold separately)........................75 Audio recording ....................................................................................................................................76 Playback mode ­ viewing and editing images .....................................................................................77 Single-frame playback and histogram display .........................................................................77 Viewing images .......................................................................................................................78 Playing back voice memos and audio captions ...............................................................78 Playing back movies and audio recordings .............................................................................79 Deleting single files..................................................................................................................79 Enlarged playback ...................................................................................................................80 Display button ­ playback mode..............................................................................................81 Navigating the playback-mode menu ......................................................................................82 Frame-selection screen ...........................................................................................................84 Deleting files ............................................................................................................................85 Locking files .............................................................................................................................86 Audio captioning ......................................................................................................................87 Slide show ...............................................................................................................................88 About DPOF ............................................................................................................................90 Creating a DPOF print order ...................................................................................................90 Ordering an index print............................................................................................................91 Copy and E-mail Copy.............................................................................................................92 8 Viewing images on a television ...............................................................................................94 Setup mode ­ controlling the camera's operation................................................................................95 Navigating the setup menu......................................................................................................96 LCD monitor brightness...........................................................................................................98 Formatting memory cards .......................................................................................................98 Auto power save ......................................................................................................................99 Language.................................................................................................................................99 File number (#) memory ..........................................................................................................99 Folder name...........................................................................................................................100 Audio signals .........................................................................................................................100 Shutter FX .............................................................................................................................101 Volume...................................................................................................................................101 Reset default..........................................................................................................................101 Setting the date and time ......................................................................................................103 Setting the date format ..........................................................................................................103 Video output ..........................................................................................................................103 Data-transfer mode ­ connecting to a computer................................................................................104 QuickTime system requirements ...........................................................................................104 System requirements.............................................................................................................105 Connecting the camera to a computer ..................................................................................106 Connecting to Windows 98 and 98SE...................................................................................108 Automatic installation .....................................................................................................108 Manual installation .........................................................................................................109 Connecting to Mac OS 8.6 ....................................................................................................111 Auto power save (data-transfer mode) ..................................................................................111 Memory card folder organization...........................................................................................112 Disconnecting the camera from the computer ......................................................................114 Windows 98 and 98SE ..................................................................................................114 Windows Me, 2000 Professional, and XP......................................................................114 Macintosh.......................................................................................................................115 Changing the memory card (data-transfer mode) .................................................................116 Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................................117 About Ni-MH batteries ...........................................................................................................119 Removing the driver software ­ Windows .............................................................................120 Care and storage ...............................................................................................................................121 Technical specifications......................................................................................................................126 9 NAMES OF PARTS Camera body * This camera is a sophisticated optical instrument. Care should be taken to keep these surfaces clean. Please read the care and storage instructions in the back of this manual (p. 121). Mode dial (main switch) Shutter-release button Data panel (p. 13) Self-timer/ Remote-control lamp (p. 42) Microphone Speaker Remote-control receiver Flash (p. 32) Lens* Viewfinder window* The tripod socket is located on the bottom of the body. 10 Flash mode/Information button (p. 32, 78) Viewfinder* (p. 12) Exposure-compensation button (p. 52) Strap eyelet (p. 15) Controller Power/Access lamp LCD monitor* Display button (p. 31, 81) QV/Delete button (p. 34) Menu button Digital-subject-program button (p. 29) Battery-chamber door (p. 14) Card-slot door (p. 18) The USB port, AV-out terminal, and DC terminal are located behind the terminal cover. · When the lamp is red, data is being transferred to and from the memory card. 11 NAMES OF PARTS Viewfinder Focus lamp (green) Flash lamp (orange) Because the optical viewfinder and the lens are slightly separated, the image seen through one is not exactly the same as the other; this is called parallax. Parallax can cause errors in framing at close distances and is more pronounced at longer focal lengths. When the subject is closer than 1m (3ft) at the wide-angle lens positions or 3m (9.8ft) at the telephoto lens position, use the LCD monitor to compose the image; because the lens creates the monitor image, it does not suffer from parallax. Mode dial This dial gives direct and easy access to the camera's major modes. It also acts as the main switch Auto-recording mode (p. 22) Multi-function recording mode (p. 54) Playback mode (p. 77) Movie-recording mode (p. 74) Audio recording mode (p. 76) Setup mode (p. 95) 12 Data panel Located on the top of the camera body, the data panel shows the status of the camera. All icons have been shown for clarity. Manual-focus indicator (p. 65) Camera-sensitivity indicator (p. 67) Spot-metering indicator (p. 66) White-balance indicator (p. 62) Drive-mode indicators (p. 40) Battery-condition indicator (p. 16) Microphone indicator (p. 48, 76, 87) Exposure-compensation indicator (p. 52) Flash-mode indicators (p. 32) Image-quality display (p. 46) Image-size display (p. 46) Exposure-mode indicators (p. 58) Frame counter (p. 47) The frame counter cannot exceed 999. When the number of recordable images exceeds this, 999 will be displayed. The frame counter will continue to count down when the number of recordable images falls below one thousand. 13 GETTING UP AND RUNNING GETTING UP AND RUNNING Changing the CR-V3 battery This digital camera uses one CR-V3 lithium battery. When replacing the batteries, the mode dial should be in the off position. 2 1 Open the battery-chamber door by sliding the door toward the bottom of the camera (1) to release the safety catch; the door can then be opened(2). Insert the battery. · The CR-V3 battery must be inserted with the battery terminals first. The flat side of the battery should face the front of the camera. If the battery does not fit, check its orientation. Never force the battery. 4 3 Close the battery-chamber door (3) and slide it toward the top of the body (4) to engage the safety catch. · After installing the battery, the set-time/date message may appear on the monitor. The clock and calendar are set in the custom 2 section of the setup menu (p. 96). 14 Installing AA batteries Although performance is better with a CR-V3 lithium battery, two AA-size Ni-MH batteries can also be used. Other types of AA batteries should not be used. When using Ni-MH batteries, fully recharge them with a battery charger suitable for complex electronic equipment. Please consult your vendor about an appropriate charger. Install the AA batteries as shown in the diagram; make sure the positive and negative battery terminals are oriented correctly. Attaching the hand strap Always keep the strap around your wrist incase the camera is accidentally dropped. 1 Pass the small loop of the hand strap through the strap eyelet on the camera body (1). 2 Pass the other end of the strap through the small loop and tighten (2). An optional leather neck strap, NS-DG200, is also available from your Minolta dealer. 15 GETTING UP AND RUNNING Battery condition indicator This camera is equipped with an automatic battery-condition indicator. When the camera is on, the battery-condition indicator appears on the data panel and monitor. The monitor icon will change from white to red when battery power is low. If the data panel and monitor are blank, the battery may be dead or installed incorrectly. Full-battery Icon ­ the battery is fully charged. This icon is displayed for five seconds on the monitor when the camera is turned on. The icon remains on the data panel. Low-battery warning ­ battery power is very low. The battery should be replaced as soon as possible. This warning automatically appears and remains on the monitor until the battery is changed. If the power falls below this level, the battery-exhausted message will be displayed just before the camera shuts down Blinking low-battery icon ­ when displayed on the data panel with no other icons, power is insufficient for camera operation. The shutter will not release. Auto power save To conserve battery power, the camera will turn off displays and unnecessary functions if an operation is not made within a minute. The green power lamp will blink for the first three minutes after auto power save shuts down the camera before turning off. To restore power, press any button or key, or turn the mode dial to another position. The length of the auto-power-save period can be changed in the basic section of the setup menu (p. 96). 16 Connecting the AC adapter (sold separately) The AC-6 Adapter allows the camera to be powered from an electrical household outlet. The AC Adapter is recommended when the camera is interfaced with a computer or during periods of heavy use. Always turn off the camera before changing between power supplies. Remove the battery from the camera 1 Lift the DC terminal cover from the bottom (1). · The cover is attached to the body to prevent loss. Insert the mini plug of the AC adapter into the DC terminal. Insert the AC adapter plug into an electrical outlet. 17 GETTING UP AND RUNNING Changing the memory card An SD Memory Card or MultiMediaCard must be inserted for the camera to operate. If a card has not been inserted, a no-card warning will automatically be displayed on the monitor and three dashes (­ ­ ­) will be displayed on the data-panel frame counter. For memory card care and storage, see page 122. Always turn off the camera and confirm the power/access lamp is not red before inserting or removing a memory card; the card may be damaged, and data lost. 1 2 3 4 Open the card-slot door (1) from the fingernail notch at the bottom of the camera. Insert the memory card all the way into the card slot and release (2). The card should catch in the slot. · Insert the card so the face is toward the front of the camera. Always push the card in straight. Never force the card. If the card does not fit, check that it is orientated correctly. To eject a memory card, press the card into the slot and release (3). The card can now be pulled out. · Take care when removing the card as it becomes hot with use. Close the card-slot door (4). The door should click into place. 18 If the card-not-recognized message appears, the inserted card in the camera may need to be formatted. A card used in another camera may have to be formatted before being used. If the unable-touse-card message appears, the card is not compatible with the camera and cannot be formatted. A card is formatted in the basic section of the setup menu (p. 96). When a card is formatted, all the data on the card is permanently erased. About memory cards The response time during recording and playback is longer with MultiMediaCards compared with SD Memory Cards. This is not a defect, but rather due to the specifications of the cards. When Writeusing large capacity cards, some operations like deletion may take protect longer. switch The SD Memory Card has a write-protect switch to prevent image data from being deleted. By sliding the switch to the bottom of the card, the data will be protected. However, when the card is protected, images cannot be recorded. If an attempt is made to record or delete an image with the camera, the card-locked mesLock sage will appear on the monitor and the orange flash lamp near position the viewfinder will blink quickly. For memory card care and storage see page 122. 19 GETTING UP AND RUNNING Setting the date and time After initially inserting a memory card and battery, the camera's clock and calendar must be set. When images are recorded, the image data is saved with the date and time of recording. Depending on the region, the menu language may also have to be set. To change the language, see the camera notes on the following page. Turn the mode dial on the top of the camera to the setup position. The camera will turn on and the setup menu will be displayed. Navigating the menu is simple. The up/down and left/right keys of the controller (1) move the cursor and change settings on the menu. The central button of the controller selects menu options and sets adjustments. 1 Setup Basic Format Power save Language Custom1 Custom2 ­ ­ 1 min. English LCDbrightness 20 Basic Reset default Date/Time set Date format Video output Custom1 Custom2 Use the right key to highlight the custom 2 tab at the top of the menu. Use the down key to highlight the date/time-set menu option. ­ ­ YYYY/MM/DD NTSC Press the right key. "Enter" will appear on the right side of the menu. Playback menu: custom 2 section Press the central button to display the date/time setting screen. Use the left and right keys to select the item to be changed. Use the up and down keys to adjust the item. Date/Time set Press the central button to set the clock and calendar. The setup menu will be displayed. Enter Date/Time setting screen Camera notes For customers in certain areas, the menu language must also be set. Highlight the language option in the basic section of the setup menu. Press the right key to display the language settings. Using the up/down keys, highlight the desired language. Press the central button to set the highlighted language; the setup menu will be displayed in the selected language. 21 AUTO-RECORDING MODE AUTO-RECORDING MODE BASIC OPERATION This section covers the basic operation of this camera. Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the operations in this section before moving on to the other sections in the manual. The sophisticated technology employed in the auto-recording mode frees the photographer from complicated camera settings to be able to simply concentrate on the subject and composition. Although automated, the camera's operation can be changed to meet various conditions as well as to suit personal shooting preferences. Handling the camera While using the viewfinder or LCD monitor, grip the camera firmly with your right hand while supporting the body with your left hand. Keep your elbows at your side and your feet shoulder-width apart to hold the camera steadily. When taking vertical pictures, hold the camera so that the flash is above the lens with the grip to the top. Take care not to cover the lens with your fingers or the strap. 22 Setting the camera to record images automatically Turn the mode dial to the auto-recording mode position (1); all camera operations are now fully automatic. The autofocus, exposure, and imaging systems will work together to bring beautiful results effortlessly. While many of the camera's systems in this mode are automatic, the camera's operation can be optimized to different subjects very simply with the digital subject program button (p. 29). The flash mode (p. 32) and drive mode (p. 40) can also be changed. Image size and quality can be set on the auto-recording mode menu (p. 38). 1 Exposure mode Metering mode Camera sensitivity (ISO) Flash mode Focus area Focus control Drive mode Exposure compensation Sharpness Color mode White balance Full-time AF Program Multi-segment Auto Auto flash Wide focus area Autofocus Single-frame advance 0.0 Normal Natural Color Auto On Fixed Fixed Fixed Can be Can be Fixed Can be Can be Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed changed* changed changed adjusted* * Changes to the flash mode or exposure compensation will be reset when the mode dial is turned to another position. 23 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Using the zoom lens This camera is equipped with a 7.8 to 23.4mm optical zoom. This is equivalent to a 38 to 114mm zoom lens on a 35mm camera. In 35mm photography, focal lengths below 50mm are referred to as wide-angle; the angle of view is larger than that of the human eye. Above 50mm is referred to as telephoto and makes distant objects appear closer. The effect of the optical zoom is visible in both the viewfinder and LCD monitor. The zoom lens is operated by the controller (1). Pressing the up key (T) will zoom in to the telephoto position of the lens. Pressing the down key (W) will zoom out to the wideangle position. Focus range CCD plane Normal focusing range Macro mode (p. 29) All distances are measured from the CCD 0.5m - (1.6ft - ) 0.2m ­ 0.6m (0.7ft ­ 2ft) 24 About camera operation The auto-recording mode uses advanced technology to make beautiful photography as effortless as possible. Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection optimizes exposure, color, and image-processing settings to each subject. The sophisticated AF system locates and tracks the subject automatically. Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection ­ The icons at the top of the LCD monitor display indicate the Digital Subject Program in use. When taking pictures, the icon for the active subject program will remain. If no icons are displayed, programmed AE is employed. For more on Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection, see page 28. Automatic Digital Subject Program Display Area AF focus frames Area AF & Subject Tracking AF ­ Area AF locates the subject within the extra large focus frames. An AF sensor will be displayed when the camera locates and focuses on the subject. Subject Tracking AF will continue to follow the subject in the focus frames whether the subject moves or the camera position is changed. 25 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Basic recording operation With the mode dial set to auto recording, the camera will be on and the LCD monitor will activate. Auto recording mode uses two advanced AF systems. Area AF and Subject Tracking AF, to locate and track the subject in the the extra-wide focus frames. Place the subject anywhere within the focus frame. · Make sure the subject is within the focus range of the lens: 0.5m - (1.6ft - ). For subjects closer than 0.5m, use the macro function (p. 29). · If the subject is closer than 1m at the wide-angle lens position or 3m at the telephoto lens position, use the LCD monitor to frame the subject. Press the shutter-release button partway down (1) to lock the subject and exposure. · The focus signals on the monitor will confirm subject lock. If the focus signal is red, the camera was unable to locate the subject. Repeat the previous steps until the signal is white. · When the subject lock engages, an AF sensor will appear on the live image to indicate the subject. If the subject moves within the focus frames, the AF sensor will change to track the subject. · The shutter speed and aperture will appear indicating the exposure is locked. 1 2 Press the shutter-release button all the way down (2) to take the picture. · The access lamp will turn red indicating image data is being written to the memory card. Never remove a memory card while data is being transferred. 26 Focus signals This digital camera has a quick, accurate autofocusing system. The focus icon in the lower right corner of the LCD monitor and the green focus lamp next to the viewfinder indicate the focus status. Focus icon: white Focus lamp: steady Focus icon: red Focus lamp: blinking Subject locked. The camera will continue to track the subject within the focus frames. Cannot focus. The subject is too close or a special situation is preventing the AF system from focusing. · If the subject lock is lost, the monitor icon will change from white to red, but the focus lamp will continue to glow steadily. For more about Subject Tracking AF, see page 64. · The shutter can be released even if the camera cannot focus on the subject. · When the AF system cannot focus, the focus is set to 2 m (6.5 ft). In this case, focus lock with Focus Area Selection can be used (p. 50, 51). Special focusing situations The camera may not be able to focus in certain situations. If the autofocus system cannot focus on a subject, the focus icon will turn red. In this situation, focus-lock with Focus Area Selection can be used to focus on an object at the same distance as the main subject and then the image can be recomposed on the monitor (p. 50, 51). The subject is too dark. The subject in the focus frame is low in contrast. Two subjects at different distances overlap in the focus frame. The subject is near a very bright object or area. 27 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection Automatic Digital Program Selection chooses between programmed AE and one of five subject programs: portrait, sport action, landscape, sunset, and night portrait. The digital-subject-programs optimise the camera's performance for various conditions and subjects. Exposure, white-balance, and image-processing systems work in unison for beautiful results. For information on individual subject programs, see page 30. Place the subject in the focus frames. Press the shutter-release button partway down. The AF system will locate the subject and the Automatic Digital Subject Selection function will choose a subject program. · If no icons are displayed, programmed AE is active. The exposure mode indicator is not displayed in auto-recording mode. Programmed AE Portrait Sports action Landscape Sunset Night portrait If the flash mode (p. 32) is set to autoflash or autoflash with red-eye reduction, the flash will not fire in the landscape, sunset, or night portrait modes. To use the flash, change the flash mode to fill flash; the flash will fire with each exposure regardless of the amount of light. Night portrait 28 Digital-subject-program button Pressing the subject-program button (1) cycles through the modes. The active subject program will be indicated at the top of the live image. The subject program will remain in effect until it is changed or the mode dial is turned to another position. Except for macro, digital subject programs cannot be used in the multi-function recording mode. 1 While camera performance is optimized for each shooting condition, some changes can be made to camera settings with subject programs. The flash mode (p. 32) can be changed and the exposure can be altered using the exposure-compensation function (p. 52). In extreme lighting conditions, changes in exposure compensation may not produce the intended results in the portrait, or night portrait mode. The camera-shake warning (p. 33) may appear in macro, landscape, sunset, or night portrait modes. Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection Macro Portrait Sports action Landscape Sunset Night portrait Programmed AE For information on individual subject programs, see page 30. 29 AUTO-RECORDING MODE MACRO ­ used for close-up photography between 20 and 60 cm (0.7 ­ 2.0ft) from the CCD. The lens will automatically zoom to the macro position and cannot be changed. Because of parallax, the LCD monitor should be used to compose the picture. PORTRAIT ­ optimized to reproduce soft skin tones and a slight defocusing of the background. Most portraits look best at a telephoto setting; longer focal lengths do not exaggerate facial features and the shallower depth of field softens the background. SPORTS ACTION ­ optimized to stop action. Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection activates this mode when shooting moving subjects at a distance with a telephoto lens setting. LANDSCAPE ­ optimized to produce sharp, colorful landscapes. With bright outdoor scenery, Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection activates this mode when recording the broad expanse of a landscape. SUNSET ­ optimized to produce rich, warm sunsets. Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection recognizes the warmth of the setting sun in a landscape photograph and activates this mode. NIGHT PORTRAIT ­ for deep, subtle night scenes. Because the flash does not fire, exposures can be long. The use of a tripod is recommended. If the flash mode is set to fill flash (p. 32), the flash and background exposures are balanced. Ask your subject not to move after the flash burst; the shutter may still be open for the background exposure. 30 Display button ­ recording mode The display-information button controls the LCD monitor display. The display cycles to the next position each time the button is pressed: full display, live image only, and monitor off. Battery power can be conserved by turning the monitor off and using the viewfinder to take pictures. When the menu or exposure-compensation button is pressed, or the macro mode is activated, the monitor will automatically turn on. Automatic Digital Subject Program Selection, Subject Tracking AF, Full-time AF (p. 65) and the digital zoom are disabled when the monitor is off. Full display Live image only LCD MONITOR OFF Display button 31 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Flash modes To set the flash mode, simply press the flash mode button (1) on the back of the camera until the desired mode is displayed. 1 Autoflash Autoflash with red-eye reduction Autoflash ­ the flash fires automatically in lowlight and backlit conditions. Fill-flash Red-eye reduction ­ the flash fires twice before Flash cancel the main flash burst to reduce red-eye; an effect caused by light reflected from the retina. Use in low-light conditions when taking photographs of people or animals. The pre-flashes contract the pupils of the subject's eyes. Fill-flash ­ the flash fires with each exposure regardless of the amount of ambient light. Fillflash can be used to reduce harsh shadows caused by strong direct light or sunshine. Flash cancel ­ the flash will not fire. Use flash cancel when flash photography is prohibited, natural light is desired to illuminate the subject, or the subject is beyond the flash range. The camera-shake warning may appear when flash cancel is selected. 32 Flash range ­ auto-recording mode The camera will automatically control the flash output. For well-exposed images, the subject must be within the flash range. Because of the optical system, the flash range is not the same at the lens' wide-angle position as it is at the telephoto position. Wide-angle position Telephoto position 0.5m ~ 2.9m (1.6 ft. ~ 9.5 ft.) 0.5m ~ 1.7m (1.6 ft. ~ 5.6 ft.) 1 Flash signals The orange flash lamp next to the viewfinder indicates the status of the flash. When the orange flash lamp blinks quickly (1), the flash is charging and the shutter will not release. The lamp will go out when the flash is charged. The flash lamp is also used as a camera-shake warning, see below. Camera-shake warning If the shutter speed falls below the point where the camera can be safely hand held, the camerashake warning will appear on the LCD monitor and the orange focus lamp will blink slowly. Camera shake is slight blurring caused by subtle hand motion and is more pronounced at the telephoto setting of the lens than at the wide-angle setting. Although the warning appears, the shutter can still be released. If the warning appears, the following steps can be taken: · Place the camera on a tripod. · Use the built-in flash. · Zoom the lens towards the wide-angle position until the warning disappears. 33 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Quick View Captured images can be viewed in auto-recording and multi-function recording mode. Simply press the QV/Delete button to access the images. The date and time of capture, frame number, printing status, lock status, image size, and image quality are displayed with the images. Images can be enlarged to view detail (p. 36). The histogram and shooting data of the image can also be displayed in Quick View. Press the QV/Delete button to play back the recorded images. Use the left/right keys of the controller to scroll through the images. · Pressing the display button switches between displaying the image with and without information. Press the information button to see the histogram of the displayed image. · When the histogram is displayed, the left/right keys cannot scroll to the next image. Press the information button again to cancel the histogram display. To return to the recording mode, press the menu button or shutter-release button. Controller Menu button QV/Delete button Display button 34 Mode indicator Image size (p. 46) Image quality (p. 46) Quick-view display To view the histogram, press the information button. Aperture value Shutter speed Time of capture Date of capture Audio-track indicator Lock indicator (p. 86) Print indicator (p. 90) Frame number/total number of images White-balance setting (p. 62) Sensitivity setting (p. 67) Degree of exposure compensation (p. 52) Folder name Folder number ­ image file number Histogram Once deleted, an image cannot be recovered. Deleting images in Quick View In quick view, the displayed image can be deleted. When selecting an image for deletion, a confirmation screen will appear before the operation is executed. To delete a displayed image, press the QV/Delete button. · A confirmation screen will appear. Delete this frame? Yes No Use the left/right keys to highlight "YES." · "NO" will cancel the operation. Press the central button of the controller to delete the image. 35 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Enlarged playback In Quick View or in single-frame playback (p. 77), a still image can be enlarged in six steps for closer examination: 1.5X, 2.0X, 2.5X, 3.0X, 3.5X, 4.0X, 4.5X, and 5.0X. With the image to be magnified displayed, press the up key of the controller to activate the enlarged playback mode. · The degree of magnification is displayed on the LCD monitor. Pressing the up key increases the image magnification. Pressing the down key decreases the magnification. · The display button switches between showing the full display and the image only. Scroll To scroll the image, press the central button of the controller. · Pressing the center button switches between the enlargedplayback and scroll screens. Use the four-way keys of the controller to scroll the image. Zoom · To exit the enlarged playback mode, press the menu button. 36 Other Quick View features Voice memos (p. 48) and audio captions (p. 87) can be played back in Quick View. When one of these audio tracks is attached to a still image, the audio-track indicator will be displayed at the bottom of the monitor. Press the central button of the controller to start the audio playback. Stop Vol. Playback time is displayed on a bar at the top of the image. The display will return to Quick View when the audio track finishes. Press the menu button to cancel the playback. Use the up/down keys of the controller to adjust the volume. The display button switch between viewing images with or without information. Camera Notes The frame counter indicates the approximate number of images that can be stored on the memory card at the camera's image quality and size settings. If the settings are changed, the frame counter adjusts accordingly. Because the calculation is based on average file sizes, the actual image taken may not change the counter or may decrease it by more than one. When the frame counter displays zero, it indicates no more images at the image size and quality settings can be captured. Changing the image size or quality settings may allow more image to be saved to the memory card (p. 38). 37 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Navigating the auto-recording mode menu In auto-recording mode, the menu button(1) turns the menu on and off. The four-way keys of the controller (2) are used to move the cursor in the menu. Pressing the center of the controller will enter a setting. Use the up/down keys of the controller (2) to scroll through the menu options. Highlight the option whose setting needs to be changed. With the menu option to be changed highlighted, press the right controller key; the settings will be displayed with the current setting highlighted. · To return to the menu options, press the left key. Use the up/down keys to highlight the new setting. Press the center of the controller to select the highlighted setting. 2 Auto Basic Drive mode Image size Quality Voice memo Digital zoom Single 2272 X 1704 Standard Off Off Once a setting has been selected, the cursor will return to the menu options and the new setting will be displayed. Changes can continue to be made. To return to the autorecording mode, press the menu button. 1 38 Basic Drive mode Single Continuous Timer/RC Bracketing 2272 X 1704 1600 x 1200 1280 X 960 640 X 480 Super fine Fine Standard Economy 15 sec. 5 sec. Off On/Off Settings made with the auto-recording menu will remain in effect until changed or the camera is reset to its default settings (p. 101). Drive modes ­ to control the rate and method of image capture Image size ­ to set the pixel resolution of the images. Image size affects the size of the image file. Image quality ­ to set the rate of compression of the images. Image quality affects the size of the image file. Voice memo ­ to record audio after a still image has been captured. The function can be turned off and the length of the recording can be set. Digital zoom ­ the digital zoom can be turned off or on. Read the following sections for more details on these options and settings. Changes made on the autorecording mode menu will also affect the multi-function recording mode. All of these functions also appear on the multi-function recording mode menu. Image size Quality Voice memo Digital zoom select enter Use the left/right keys to select the bracketing increment (p. 44). 39 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Drive modes The drive modes control the rate and method of image capture. Icons indicating the selected drive mode appear on the data panel and LCD monitor. LCD monitor All icons have been shown for clarity. The single-frame advance and continuous drive indicators occupy the same area of the data panel. All the drive-mode icons appear in the lower right corner of the monitor. Data panel Single-frame advance Continuous advance Self-timer/ Remote control Bracketing To take a single image each time the shutterrelease button is pressed (p. 26). To take multiple images when the shutterrelease button is pressed and held. To delay the release of the shutter. Used for self-portraits. To take a series of three images with differing exposures. 40 Continuous advance The continuous-advance drive mode allows a series of images to be captured while holding down the shutter-release button. Continuous advance acts like a motor drive on a film camera. The number of images that can be captured at one time and the rate of capture depend on the image-quality and image-size setting. The maximum rate of capture is 1.2 fps with the shutter FX on (p. 101), or 1.5 fps with it off. The continuous-advance mode is set on the auto-recording mode menu and in the basic section of the multi-function recording mode menu (p. 56). When the shutter-release button is pressed and held, the camera will begin recording images until the maximum number has been taken or the shutter button is released. If super-fine image quality (p. 46) is selected, only one image will be captured. The builtin flash can be used, but the rate of capture is reduced because the flash must recharge between frames. Compose the picture as described in the basic recording operation section (p. 26). Press the shutter-release button partway down to lock onto the subject and set the exposure for the series. Press and hold the shutter-release button all the way down (1) to begin taking pictures. The following chart lists the maximum number of images that can be captured with different image-quality and image-size combinations. 1 Image Quality Image Size 2272 X 1704 1600 X 1200 8 16 32 1280 X 960 13 26 49 640 X 480 49 91 156 Fine Standard Economy 4 8 16 41 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Self-timer Used for self-portraits, the self-timer will delay the release of the shutter for approximately ten seconds after the shutter-release button is pressed. When the drive mode is set to self-timer, the focus mode is changed from Subject Tracking AF to single-shot AF allowing the use of focus lock (p. 51).The self-timer is set on the auto-recording mode menu (p. 38) or in 1 the basic section of the multi-function recording mode menu (p. 56). With the camera on a tripod, compose the picture so the subject is within the focus frames. Press the shutter-release button partway down to lock the exposure and focus (1). Press the shutter-release button all the way down to begin the countdown (2). Because focus and exposure are determined when the shutter-release button is pressed, do not stand in front of the camera when taking a self-timer image. Always confirm the focus with the focus signals before beginning the countdown (p. 51). During the countdown, the self-timer lamp on the front of the camera (3) will start to blink and is accompanied by an audio signal. A few seconds before the exposure, the self-timer lamp will blink rapidly. The lamp will glow steadily just before the shutter fires. To stop the countdown, press the up/down keys of the controller or turn the mode dial to another position. The audio signal can be turned off in the basic section of the setup menu (p. 96). 2 3 Shooting tips The self-timer can be used to minimize camera shake with long exposures. When using the camera on a tripod, photographs of static subjects (landscapes, still-lifes, or close-up photographs) can be made with the self-timer. Because no contact is made with the camera during exposure, there is no risk of camera shake caused by the operator. 42 SINGLE-SHOT AF Remote control (sold separately) The IR Remote Control RC-3 allows remote camera operation up to 5m (16 ft.) away. The remote control unit can be used in movie recording (p. 75). Place the camera on a tripod, and set the drive mode to self-timer / remote control (p. 38, 55). Arrange the camera and subject to compose the picture. When setting up the camera, make sure the subject is within the focus frames. · Focus lock cannot be used with the IR remote control. · Focus area selection (p. 50) and manual focus (p. 65) can be used. Emitter window While pointing the emitter window of the remote control unit toward the camera, press the release button or the delay button to take the picture. · When the release button is pressed, the self-timer lamp on the front of the camera will blink once before the picture is taken. · When the delay button is pressed, the self-timer lamp on the front of the camera will blink for two seconds before the picture is taken. · The remote control may not operate with backlit subjects or under fluorescent light. Delay button Release button 43 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Bracketing This mode makes a three-image bracket of a scene. Bracketing is a method of taking a series of images of a static subject in which each image has a slight variation in exposure. The bracketing mode is set on the auto-recording mode menu (p. 38) or in the basic section of the multi-function recording mode menu (p. 56). Brackets cannot be made with super-fine images (p. 46). The order of the bracket series is normal exposure, underexposure, and overexposure. The exposure bracket can be made in 0.3, 0.5, or 1.0 Ev increments (p. 53). The larger the number, the greater the difference in exposure between the images in the bracketed series. Normal Under Over After the bracketing drive mode has been selected on the menu, a screen to choose the bracketing step will be displayed. Use the left and right keys of the controller (1) to display the desired step. Press the central button of the controller (2) to set it. The bracketing step will remain in effect until the drive mode is changed. To change the step, select the bracketing drive mode again from the menu. 1 2 select enter 44 1 2 Compose the picture as described in the basic recording operation section (p. 26). Press the shutter-release button partway down (1) to lock onto the subject and set the exposure for the series. Press and hold the shutter-release button all the way down (2) to make the bracket series; three consecutive images will be captured. The remaining number of frames in the bracket series is displayed on the monitor next to the bracketing icon. If the memory is filled or the shutter button is released before the series has completed, the camera will reset and the entire bracket must be made again. When using flash, there will be a delay between frames as the flash charges. When using exposure compensation (p. 52), the bracketing series will be made in relation to the compensated exposure. Under extreme conditions, one of the bracketed exposures may be inaccurate because it is outside the exposure control range of the camera Number of frames in bracketing series Frame counter 45 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Image size and image quality Changing image size affects the number of pixels in each image. The greater the image size, the larger the file size. Choose image size based on the final use of the image ­ smaller images will be more suitable for web sites whereas larger sizes will produce higher quality prints. Data panel LCD monitor Number of pixels (hor. X vert.) Image size 2272 1600 1280 640 2272 X 1704 1600 X 1200 1280 X 960 640 X 480 FULL UXGA SXGA VGA Image quality controls the rate of compression, but has no effect on the number of pixels in the image. The higher the image quality, the lower the rate of compression and the larger the file sizes. If the economical use of the memory card is important, use the economy mode. Standard image quality is sufficient for normal usage. The super-fine mode will produce the highest quality image and the largest image files. Depending on image size, when capturing super-fine images, a delay of up to fifty seconds can occur as the image is saved to the memory card; the monitors will be blank and the access lamp will glow during that period. Data panel LCD monitor Quality File type S. FIN FINE STD. ECON. Super fine ­ the highest quality image. Fine ­ high-quality image. Standard ­ the default setting. Economy ­ the smallest file sizes. TIFF JPEG JPEG JPEG 46 File formats vary with the image quality setting. Super fine images are saved as a TIFF file. The fine, standard, and economy settings are formatted as a JPEG file. Super fine, fine, standard, and economy files can be recorded as color or monochrome images (p. 68) in the multi-function recording mode. Image size and quality must be set before the picture is taken. Changes made to image size are displayed on the data panel and LCD monitor. Image size must be reset manually. See navigating the auto-recording mode menu section on page 38. In multi-function recording mode, image size and quality are controlled in the basic section of the multi-function recording menu (p. 56). If image size or quality is changed, the data panel will display the approximate number of images that can be recorded at that setting on the installed memory card. One memory card can contain images with differing sizes and qualities. The number of images that can be stored on a memory card is determined by the size of the card and the file size of the images. The actual file size is determined by the scene; some subjects can be compressed further than others. Approximate file sizes. Image quality Image size 2272 X 1704 1600 X 1200 1280 X 960 640 X 480 Super fine 12MB 5.6MB 2.0MB Fine 1.0MB 1.0MB Standard 500KB 500KB 250KB Economy Approximate number of images that can be stored on Super fine 1 2 Fine 7 15 Standard 14 29 Economy 29 56 3.6MB 900KB 600KB 200KB 300KB 100KB 150KB 50KB a 16MB memory card. 3 15 23 82 45 150 82 226 47 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Voice memo Voice memo allows a five or fifteen second audio track to be recorded with a still image. The function is activated and the length of the recording time is set on the auto-recording mode menu (p. 38) or in the custom 2 section of the multi-function recording menu (p. 56). When the function is active, the microphone icon is displayed on the data panel and LCD monitor. The voice memo must be set before taking a picture. It will remain in effect until reset. After an image is captured, a screen will appear indicating the audio recording has started. A bar graph (1) will display the amount of recorded time remaining. The recording will automatically stop when the set time has elapsed. To cancel the recording and erase the audio track, press the central button of the controller (2) or the shutter-release button (3) before the recording has finished. Microphone 3 Auto 1 Recording audio : stop 2 When used with the continuous-advance or bracketing drive modes (p. 40) the audio file is attached to the last frame of the series. The voice memo can be played back in Quick View or the playback mode (p. 78). Images with voice-memo audio tracks have the audio-track indicator displayed with them. Recording Tips When making audio recordings, be careful not to touch or cover the microphone. The quality of the recording is proportional to the subject to microphone distance. For best results, hold the camera approximately 20cm (8in) from your mouth. 48 Digital zoom The digital zoom is activated on the auto-recording mode menu (p. 38) and in the custom 2 section of the multi-function recording mode menu (p. 56). The digital zoom extends the power of the telephoto position of the optical zoom by up to two and a half times in six steps: 1.25X, 1.5X, 1.75X, 2.0X, 2.25X, and 2.5X. The transition between the optical zoom and digital zoom is seamless. When the digital zoom is active, the image magnification is displayed on the monitor. The autofocus mode is set to single-shot AF (p. 64). The digital zoom is canceled if the LCD monitor is turned off (p. 31). Digital zoom images are interpolated to the set image size. There can be some loss of quality with images taken with the digital zoom. 1 The digital zoom is operated by the controller (1). Pressing the up key (T) will zoom in to the telephoto position of the lens. When the digital zoom activates, the image magnification will be displayed at the top of the monitor. Only the LCD monitor will show the effect of the digital zoom. Press the down key (W) to zoom out. 49 AUTO-RECORDING MODE Focus area selection Individual focus areas can be selected. Press and hold the controller (1) until the Area-AF frame lines change to the spot-focus-area display. Press and hold the controller again to return to the Area-AF frame lines. 1 Use the four-way key of the controller (2) to highlight the desired autofocus area; the active area is blue. 2 3 Press the shutter-release button partway down (3) or press the center of the controller (4) to select the area; the other four areas will disappear. Focus and exposure is locked. Press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the picture. 4 Once a focus area is selected, it will remain active even after the picture has been taken. Only when one focus area is displayed, can the controller be used to zoom (p. 24). Press and hold the central button of the controller for about one second to return to the Area AF focus frames. The use another focus area, repeat the procedure. 50