User manual MINOLTA DIMAGE G500

E Instruction Manual 9224-27311-11 M-A306/KME 0312 Getting Started Please be sure to read this manual before use. · Test shooting Be sure to take some test shots before taking important pictures (such as business or weddings) to make sure that the camera is working properly. · Results are not guaranteed In the unlikely event that a problem arises in shooting or reproducing pictures due to the camera or memory card used, please understand that no compensation can be made. · Be aware of Copyright Any pictures that you take of existing images may be used for personal use only. Copyright law prohibits the use of pictures without the permission of the rightful owner. Also, please note that some occasions of the performing arts, demonstrations and exhibitions may restrict photography even for the purpose of personal enjoyment. Caution for Extended Camera Use: The camera body may become hot when used for a long period of time, but it doesn't mean that the camera is broken. However, if the camera keeps touching the skin for a long time, this may cause a cryogenic burn. Please be careful with it. About trademarks ·Minolta, The essentials of imaging, and DiMAGE are trademarks or registered trademarks of Minolta Co., Ltd. · Windows 98, Windows 98SE, Windows XP, Windows 2000 Professional and Windows Me are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. · Apple, Macintosh, Mac OS, QuickTime and Power PC are trademarks or registered trademarks of Apple Computer in the U.S. and other countries. · All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. * The illustrations in this guide are for the purpose of explanation and may differ from the actual design of your camera. * You can also order a digital print at a photo lab (except for some labs) such as a traditional photofinishing service. For detailed information, please contact your photo lab. 2 Contents Important Safety Precautions ...........................................................6 Preparation Necessary Accessories ...................................................................11 Names of Parts .................................................................................14 Camera Body....................................................................................14 Operation Buttons.............................................................................16 Attaching the Strap ..........................................................................17 Preparing the Power Supply............................................................18 Charging the (supplied) Battery Pack ................................................18 Installing the (supplied) Battery Pack .................................................19 Connecting the AC Adapter (sold separately) ....................................22 Inserting/Removing Cards...............................................................24 Turning the Power ON/OFF .............................................................26 Setting the Menu Language/Date and Time..................................27 Basic Operation Taking Pictures .................................................................................29 Holding Your Camera ........................................................................29 Viewfinder and Indicator LEDs ..........................................................29 Taking Pictures using the Viewfinder .................................................31 Shooting with Focus Lock.................................................................34 Taking Pictures using the LCD Monitor .............................................35 Selecting the Shooting Mode..........................................................38 AUTO (Auto Flash) ...............................................................40 Red-Eye Reduction ...........................................................................40 Fill-In .................................................................................................41 Slow-Sync.........................................................................................41 Off (Flash Override)............................................................................41 Macro-photo Mode ...........................................................................42 Distant View Mode ............................................................................42 Self-Timer Mode ...............................................................................43 Fixed focus mode .............................................................................43 3 Contents (Cont'd) Advanced Shooting Using the REC Menu........................................................................44 Setting with the REC (DETAILS) Menu ..............................................44 Selecting a Combination of Image Sizes and Compression Ratios..........................................................................46 Shooting Movies ...............................................................................49 Adjusting Exposure Compensation ...................................................51 Adjusting White Balance ...................................................................52 Changing Auto-Exposure (AE) Modes ...............................................54 Taking Monochrome Pictures ............................................................55 Using the Digital Zoom......................................................................56 Adjusting the Brightness and Color of the LCD Monitor ....................57 Making Voice Memos........................................................................58 Using After Recording .......................................................................59 Changing slow shutter speed............................................................61 Taking photographs in manual exposure mode .................................62 Setting up image quality....................................................................64 Selecting the Set-up Menu................................................................66 Setting with the REC (BASIC) Menu..................................................67 Selecting the Image Size...................................................................68 Basic Playback/Erasing Playback ............................................................................................70 Playing Back Pre-recorded Images ...................................................70 Playing Back Movies .........................................................................72 Playing Back Voice Memos ...............................................................73 Playing back the sound of After Recording images ...........................73 Playing Back Enlarged Images (Digital Zoom)....................................74 Using the Quick-view Function..........................................................75 Erasing the Playback Image............................................................76 Advanced Playback/Erasing Using the PLAY Menu ......................................................................77 Viewing Multiple Pages at Once (Index Playback)..............................78 Copying an Image.............................................................................79 Erasing Unwanted Images ................................................................82 Adjusting LCD Monitor Brightness and Color ....................................85 Selecting/Deselecting Images to Print (DPOF) ...................................86 Reducing Image Size (Resizing) ........................................................90 4 Contents (Cont'd) Setting/Canceling Protection for Your Important Images ...................91 Moving the Image Data to Another Memory Card .............................94 Playing a Slide Show.........................................................................97 Using the After Recording Function...................................................97 Selecting the Set-up Menu................................................................97 Advanced Operations Using the Set-up Menu ....................................................................98 Formatting a Memory Card ...............................................................99 REC Menu Settings.........................................................................100 Quick View Settings ........................................................................100 Switching off the image information display.....................................101 Setting the Operation Sounds .........................................................102 Adjusting the Date and Time...........................................................103 Setting the Self-timer Delay Time ....................................................103 Setting the Auto Power-OFF Time...................................................104 Resetting the File Numbers .............................................................104 Setting Memory Priority...................................................................105 Changing Languages ......................................................................105 Taking Still Images with Sound........................................................106 Customizing the Camera.................................................................107 Restoring the Default Settings.........................................................110 Connecting to your PC Connecting to your PC ..................................................................111 Operating Environments..................................................................111 Connecting with a USB cable .........................................................112 Installing software and downloading images..............................113 Installing USB Driver Software.........................................................113 Downloading (transferring) Images ..................................................115 Instruction Manuals .........................................................................117 Adobe Acrobat Reader ...................................................................117 Others When Carrying the Camera Overseas..........................................118 Care and Storage ...........................................................................119 Troubleshooting ..............................................................................121 Main Specifications........................................................................123 5 Important Safety Precautions This product has been designed with safety in mind; however, please read the following display marks, warnings and cautions for its correct usage. The following warning and caution symbols are to prevent damage to the user, other persons and property. Definitions of the symbols The following categories explain the degree of danger or damage that may occur if the displayed content is not followed or the product is misused. Warning This symbol indicates that misuse may result in serious injury and even death. Caution This symbol indicates that misuse may result in bodily injury or physical damage. The following categories explain the contents to be followed using symbols. This symbol indicates that the content requires caution when performed. This symbol indicates that the content is prohibited. This symbol indicates that the content must always be followed. 6 Important Safety Precautions (Cont'd) Warning Should any of the following occur, stop using the product immediately. Remove the batteries from the unit and disconnect the AC adapter. If using the AC adapter, disconnect the power plug from the wall outlet. Consult the dealer from whom you bought the product for further assistance. Continued use of the product may result in fire or electrical shock. · If you notice any abnormality such as smoke or an abnormal smell, or if the camera becomes extremely hot. · If liquid gets inside the camera. · If any foreign object gets inside the camera. Do not dismantle, modify or repair the camera yourself. Fire and/or electrical shock may occur as a result. For repair or internal inspection, consult the dealer from whom you bought the product. Do not allow the camera to get wet. Fire, electrical shock and/or malfunction of the unit may occur if internal parts are exposed to water or other liquids. Do not drop or insert metal objects or combustible items inside the camera. Fire, electrical shock and/or malfunction of the unit may occur as a result of metal objects, etc. getting inside the camera. Do not use the camera while driving. May cause traffic accidents. When using the camera while walking, pay attention to the road surface, surroundings, etc. Do not use the camera on unstable ground. Serious injury and even death may occur as a result especially when falling from high places. 7 Important Safety Precautions (Cont'd) Warning Do not directly look at the sun through the viewfinder. Loss of or impaired eyesight may result. Do not touch the metal parts on the camera during thunder and lightning. Death may occur if lightning strikes the camera. Do not use AC adapters other than those specified. Fire may occur as a result of AC adapters other than those specified being used. Do not dismantle, short-circuit, coat (solder, etc.), apply heat, apply pressure (with nail, etc.) to the battery, or throw into a fire. Furthermore, do not allow metals (wires, necklaces, etc.) to come into contact with batteries. Fluid leakage, heat, fire and damage may occur as a result. Caution Do not point the lens directly at the sun or at a strong light source. Malfunction of internal parts may occur from concentrated rays of light. Using the camera in such conditions may cause short circuits and breakdown of insulation, resulting in overheating and/or fire. Take care not to get fingers caught in the battery/card cover. Personal injury may occur as a result. When using the camera inside an airplane, follow the directions of the airline company. Electric waves emitted from the camera may affect airplane cockpit instruments. 8 Do not use the flash near eyes. Eye injury may occur as a result. Important Safety Precautions (Cont'd) Caution When taking a picture, wipe off the flash surface and be careful not to cover the flash. If the flash surface is dirty or you take a shot with the flash covered, it is possible for the flash surface quality or color to change, due to the high temperature of the flash. Check that the polarity is correct when inserting batteries. The battery may heat, damage or leak if the polarity is not correct, possibly causing skin burns and/or personal injury as a result. Do not use batteries which have become soiled with oil or sweat. If soiled, wipe the contacts with a dry cloth before use. When cleaning or carrying out non-photographic operations on the camera, disconnect the AC adapter for safety. Do not leave the camera in locations such as: · A location exposed to direct sunlight or inside a car, etc. where the temperature may become extremely high. Fire and/or damage to the unit may occur. · Within the reach of children. The strap may wrap around the neck causing strangulation, or accessories such as batteries, Memory Card, etc. may be swallowed. · Unstable surfaces such as on an unstable table or an angled surface. Camera dropping on the head or other body parts may not only cause personal injury but malfunction of the unit as well. · A location exposed to lampblack, steam, high humidity, dust or vibration. If dust or liquid enters the camera or if the internal parts are damaged by strong vibration, overheating, fire or electrical shock may 9 occur as a result. Important Safety Precautions (Cont'd) Caution Remove the batteries when the camera will not be used for an extended period. Do not use force when operating the camera. The camera may become damaged, causing personal injury as a result. Do not rotate the camera when mounting on a tripod. About battery fluid leakage · Should battery fluid leaks ever come into contact with hands or clothing, wash immediately with water. · Loss of eyesight may occur if battery fluid enters the eye. In such case, do not rub the eye. Immediately flush the eye with water and seek medical attention. About the LCD monitor · Due to the characteristics of liquid crystals, the brightness of the LCD monitor may appear uneven with changes in temperature, etc. · The LCD monitor has been developed using high-precision engineering and is superior in sharpness and picture quality. Due to the nature of liquid crystals, however, there may be missing or constantly lit pixels on the monitor. This is not a malfunction of the unit. · If the LCD monitor becomes damaged for some reason, take care to prevent personal injury from broken glass, etc. Furthermore, take care that liquid crystals do not touch the skin or enter the eyes or mouth. WARNING: Handling the cord on this product may expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer, and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. 10 Preparation Necessary Accessories Checking the Packing Contents The following accessories should be packed with your new camera; please make sure all are enclosed after opening the packaging. In the unlikely event that something is missing, please contact the sales outlet. · · · · · · · · · Lithium-ion Battery NP-500 Battery Charger BC-500 USB Cable USB-800 Hand Strap HS-DG130 SD Memory Card DiMAGE Viewer CD-ROM DiMAGE Instruction Manuals CD-ROM Quick Reference Guide International Warranty Certificate Optional Accessories · AC Adapter AC-8U/AC-8E/AC-8GB (The AC Adapter unit varies with region. AC-8U is for use in North America, Taiwan, and Japan. AC-8E is for continental Europe, Oceania, and Asia (except Hong Kong). AC-8GB is for the United Kingdom and Hong Kong.) · Lithium-ion Battery NP-500 This product can be used with the following power supplies: 1) Lithium-ion battery (the packaged item or purchased separately) · Read the user's guide on the battery and the charger thoroughly, and use them accordingly. · You cannot charge the battery in the camera. · When disposing of rechargeable batteries, please support recycling by participating in the recovering system of the store from which you bought the batteries. · The number of pictures you can take varies with the conditions of use and the performance of the rechargeable batteries. * Please refer to page 20 for information on battery life. 2) Plugging in at home · Connect the optional AC adapter. 11 Necessary Accessories (Cont'd) Compatible Recording Media This camera comes with approximately 2 MB of memory installed, but if you would like to use additional memory, the following cards are compatible: · SD Memory Card · MultiMedia Card · Memory Stick About the SD Memory Card/Multi-Media Card/Memory Stick Caution SD Memory Cards, Multi-Media Cards and Memory Stick are manufactured using precision electronic components. Do not perform the following as malfunction or damage may occur as a result. · Do not touch the terminals with hands or metal objects. Damage to the components may occur as a result of static electricity. Before handling an SD Memory Card, Multi-Media Card or Memory Stick, discharge any static buildup from your body by touching grounded metal, etc. · Do not bend, drop or apply excessive force. · Avoid heat, liquid and direct sunlight when using and for storage. · Do not open the battery/card cover or remove the SD Memory Card/MultiMedia Card/Memory Stick while data is being read or written. · Do not dismantle or modify. * The SD logo is a trademark. * "Memory Stick" and the Memory Stick Logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. 12 Necessary Accessories (Cont'd) Important · In the event of malfunction or damage, it is possible that data may be lost. Minolta cannot accept responsibility in any way for such data loss. · Always back-up important data. · When using SD Memory Cards/Multi-Media Cards/Memory Stick on a PC, do not change the attributes(read-only, etc.) of the files (image data) on the card. Doing so may prevent the camera from working properly when deleting images, etc. · Do not change the file names or the directory name of image data saved on an SD Memory Card/Multi-Media Card/Memory Stick using a PC or save files other than image data taken by this camera. Images that have been changed or added will not playback on the camera and may cause the camera to malfunction as well. · Always format SD Memory Cards/Multi-Media Cards/Memory Stick using this camera. A card formatted in a PC may not operate properly. · The SD Memory Card and Memory Stick includes a write-protect switch. Sliding this switch downward prevents data from being written to the card and images, etc. saved on the card are protected. Please note that pictures cannot be taken or deleted when the write-protect switch is on. · When using a large-capacity card, card check and deletion may take some time. · When using Multi-Media Cards, the operation response time may be longer during shooting and playback when compared with SD Memory Cards. However, this is due to the specification of the Multi-Media Card and is not a malfunction. 13 Names of Parts Camera Body Microphone Shutter Button Light Sensor Flash Viewfinder Window Lens Cover (Main Switch) Strap Holder USB Terminal Self-timer LED Lens 14 Names of Parts (Cont'd) Viewfinder Eyepiece Delete Button (P.16) Display Button (P.16) Green LED Red LED Zoom Buttons (P.16) Speaker LCD Monitor Play Button(P.16) 4-way Button (P.16) Battery Sub-cap Tripod Socket Battery/Card Cover Menu/Set Button (P.16) 15 Names of Parts (Cont'd) Operation Buttons 1 23 4 LCD Monitor 5 6 1 Play Button ( ) Use this button for playing back images, or setting up the play menu. This button can be used whether the camera's power is ON or OFF (p.26). 2 Display Button For turning LCD monitor on and off, and switching the picture information display on and off. When the power is ON, the LCD monitor lights, so it should be turned OFF when you are shooting through the viewfinder. 4-way Button 3 Delete Button ( ) up For deleting unwanted photos. 4 Zoom Buttons left right For operating the optical and digital zoom functions. down 5 4-way Button (up, down, right, left) Use the different buttons up, down, right, and left to select menu items, images, etc. This button is used for the following: · Selecting shooting mode · Selecting menus · Selecting pictures · Scrolling a picture in an enlarged display · Customizing the camera 6 Menu/Set Button For displaying the menu screen, selecting the contents and confirm16 ing choices. Attaching the Strap 1 1. Push the loop on the small end of the strap through the strap holder. 2 2. Pass the other end of the strap through the loop that is sticking out from the strap holder. Warning: When using the camera with the strap attached, take care so that it does not wrap around the neck. On no account hang the camera round the neck of small children and infants. Strangulation may occur as a result if the strap wraps around the neck. When carrying the camera hanging from the strap, take care so that it does not accidentally hit nearby objects. ·Place the camera on a stable surface before installing the strap, to avoid the possibility of it being dropped and damaged. 17 Preparing the Power Supply Charging the (supplied) Battery Pack - Charge the battery pack before you use it for the first time and when the LCD monitor indicates, "NO MORE POWER". Charging display LED 3 2 1 to an outlet 1. Connect the power cord to the charger. 2. Plug the cord into an outlet. 3. Put the battery pack in the charger. · While the battery pack is being charged, the charging display LED will be red; when the battery pack is fully charged, the light will turn green. 4. After charging, remove the battery pack from the charger and then the power cord from the outlet and the charger. · Normal charging time is about 2.5 hours. Please charge your battery pack in an area with a temperature between 0°C (32°F) and 40°C (104°F). · Charging time will vary with the surrounding temperature and the condition of the battery pack. · Before using new battery packs or battery packs that have not been used for some time, be absolutely sure to charge them. · When a battery pack reaches the end of its useful life, it can be used only for a short time, even when fully charged. When that happens, replace with a new battery pack (sold separately, Lithium-ion Battery NP-500). · During charging both the charger and the battery pack get hot; this is normal. · If dirt gets on the battery contact points, the battery pack will not be fully charged or charging time will get longer. Please wipe them off with a soft, dry cloth. 18 Preparing the Power Supply (Cont'd) Installing the (supplied) Battery Pack Before installing or changing battery packs, make sure the power is OFF (p.26), check that the LCD monitor is not lit and turn OFF all switches. 1 1. Open the battery/card cover by sliding it in the direction of the arrow. Do not change the battery with wet hands, as there is a danger of electric shock. 2 2. Install the battery with the terminals facing inside the camera. After making sure the battery pack is properly installed, close the battery/card cover securely. Make sure that the battery pack is facing the right way. If the battery pack is installed incorrectly, there is a danger of injury or contamination, or the camera may be damaged due to leakage and/or heat. Battery level indicator As the battery runs out of power, the battery level indicator displays the power remaining as follows: (Remaining power is shown on the LCD monitor in two levels) 1. Fully charged 2. Power is running out; change (charge) the battery. 19 Preparing the Power Supply (Cont'd) Battery life guide (reference) Number of Pictures With LCD Monitor On About 100 With LCD Monitor Off About 200 Continuous Playback Time (in Minutes) About 90 * Our test conditions: Normal humidity and temperature, flash usage 50%, shot every 30 sec. Zoomed one direction, once, 2592 x 1944 pixels. * The Battery life will vary depending on the environment, shooting mode, and shooting conditions. * The above values are for reference only and are not guaranteed. * Power is consumed by the following operations even when not recording and these will reduce the number of images that can be recorded. · Repeated focus operations by pressing the shutter button halfway. · Repeated zoom operations. · Extensive use of the LCD monitor in the Playback mode. · Communication with a PC. Warning · When you continue using the camera for a long time, the batteries become hot. Contact with the batteries can lead to burns. · Never open the battery/card cover while the camera is accessing the card or processing images (p.36). · To recharge the battery (NP-500), do not use any charger other than the supplied charger (BC-500). Also, do not use the supplied charger (BC-500) to recharge batteries other than our special battery (NP-500) · Do not leave the battery anywhere where the temperature may reach 60Cº (140°F), such as inside a car, in the sun, near a heater, etc. · Do not get the battery wet, drop it or subject it to violent shocks. · Battery Charger BC-500 Main Specifications · Input voltage : AC100­240V (50/60Hz) · Rated Input : 8VA (100V) 12 VA (240V) · Rated Output : DC4.2V/600mA · Recharge time : Approx. 2.5hr · Temperature for use: 0°­40°C (32°­104°F) · Storage temperature: 20°­60°C (-4°­76°F) 20 · External dimensions: 55(W) x 30(H) x 90(D) mm 21/4"(W) x 11/4"(H) x 35/8"(D) Weight : Approx. 70g (2oz) Lithium-ion Battery NP-500 Main Specifications Nominal voltage : 3.7 V Nominal capacity : 820mAh Temperature for use: 0°­40°C (32°­104°F) External dimensions : 31.8(W) x 9(H) x 49.8(D) mm 1.25"(W) x 3/8"(H) x 2"(D) Weight : Approx. 25g (1oz) · · · · · · · Preparing the Power Supply (Cont'd) Please co-operate in recycling the lithium-ion battery. · This product uses a lithium-ion battery. · This battery is recyclable and a valuable resource. · For recycling exhausted batteries or batteries removed from a used product, as a precaution against a short circuit, that could result in smoke or fire, please tape the terminals to insulate them or put them in a plastic bag and take them to a retailer participating in a recycling program, where you can deposit them in a recycling box for rechargeable batteries. Warnings about recycling Do not short circuit the battery. This may cause a fire or electrical shock. Do not peel off the outer cover (insulation cover, tube, etc.) This may cause the battery to leak, get hot, catch fire, or explode. Do not dismantle the battery. This may cause it to leak, get hot, catch fire, or explode. Digital Camera: FCC Compliance Statement: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may Tested To Comply With FCC Standards not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: · Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. · Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver. · Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. · Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Tested by the Minolta Corporation 101 Williams Drive, Ramsey, New Jersey 07446, U.S.A. Do not remove the ferrite cores from the cables. Industry Canada's Compliance Statement: This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada. 21 Preparing the Power Supply (Cont'd) Connecting the AC Adapter (sold separately) - If you do not want to worry about battery consumption, we recommend using the specified AC adapter (sold separately, AC-8U/AC-8E/AC-8GB; see P.11 for details) when shooting pictures, during playback, or when transferring data (USB connection). - Only use the AC adapter (sold separately) specified for your camera as use of any other device may result in a breakdown, fire or electrical shock. - Make sure the camera is OFF, check that the LCD monitor is not lit and turn OFF all power. - After reading the "Important Safety Precautions" (pp.7-10) in this manual and the warnings supplied with the AC adapter, connect the adapter as instructed. 1 1. Connect the AC adapter to the power supply cord, and plug in the power supply plug. 2 2. Insert the connecting plug of the battery type adapter to the AC adapter plug. 22 Preparing the Power Supply (Cont'd) 3 3. After opening the battery/card cover, remove the battery sub-cap. Insert the battery adapter in the battery compartment, and close the battery/card cover. · When finished using the camera, turn OFF the power supply to the camera, and then disconnect the connecting plug of the battery-type plug from the AC adapter. Never handle the adapter with wet hands. It may result in electric shock. 23 Inserting/Removing Cards - About 2 MB of memory are built into this camera as recording media for image data, and other information, such as date and time, so even without a card inserted, the camera can record in an emergency. If you wish to use an aftermarket card, any of the following are appropriate: SD Memory Card, MultiMedia Card, Memory Stick. (All three will be called "card" hereafter.) - First, turn OFF the main switch (lens cover closed), make sure the LCD monitor is OFF and turn OFF all power. If power is ON, damage may occur to the card or to the camera itself. Inserting a Card 1 1. Open the battery/card cover. 2 Memory Stick slot SD Memory Card/MultiMedia Card slot 2. With the camera and the label of the card facing up, insert the card with the knocked out part first into the slot and push in until a click is heard. · Take care that the card is inserted facing the right way. If the card is forcefully inserted facing the wrong way, it will damage the connector. · There are two card slots. When a SD Memory card or MultiMedia Card are used, insert them in the slot at the back of the camera, and if a Memory Stick is used, insert it in the slot toward the front. 3. Close the battery/card cover. 24 Inserting/Removing Cards (Cont'd) Card Removal 1. Open the battery/card cover. 2. If you gently push in on the card, the lock will release and the card will come out a little. Then carefully draw the card out. 3. Again, close the battery/card cover. Warning Insert or remove cards only after making sure that absolutely all power is OFF as indicated by the viewfinder LED being off. While the card is being accessed, or an image is being processed, the LCD monitor will show "Now COPY...", etc., and the red LED will come on. If you open the battery/card cover while the red LED is flashing, image processing may be interrupted or hindered. While the red LED is still lit, make sure that you DO NOT open the battery/card cover. · When a card is inserted, it is recorded on first. (When a card is not inserted, internal memory is used for recording. However, in this case the recording image size is limited to only 640 x 480 pixels.) · Also, it is possible to insert and use two cards simultaneously, such as an SD memory card (or multi-media card) and a Memory Stick. In this case the card being used will be recorded on first. By using the Set-up menu, you can select which to record to first (p.105). 25 Turning the Power ON/OFF 1 1. Gently slide the lens cover (main switch) in the direction indicated by the arrow until it stops. 2 2. Once the lens extends to the shooting position (wide-angle side), the power will come on. · With the power ON it is possible to shoot pictures. Also, the LCD display will be lit. 3 3. When you wish to turn the power OFF, slide the lens cover just a little in the direction indicated by the arrow. The power will turn OFF and the lens will retract. After you are sure the lens has fully retracted, you can close the lens cover to its fully closed position. 26 Setting the Menu Language/Date and Time The first time that you use your camera, a screen will automatically appear and prompt you to set the time, date and language. To make those settings, please follow the steps below. You can select from among four languages, Japanese, English, French, and German. Make sure that either the AC adapter is connected or that there is enough battery power. - 1 1. Turn the power on by either opening the lens cover or pressing the PLAY button. The language selection screen will automatically appear on the LCD monitor. By pressing down or up, select the desired language and push the MENU/SET button. 2 2. You will be prompted to confirm your language selection; confirm the selected "YES" by pressing the MENU/SET button. · If you select "NO" by pressing the right button and press the MENU/SET button, the current setting is invalidated and you will return to the first screen. * Once you have finished language selection, the next screen "DATE SET" will appear. 3 3. With "YEAR" selected, use left or right to adjust to the appropriate year. The date may be adjusted up to Dec. 31, 2050. 27 Setting the Menu Language/Date and Time (Cont'd) 4 4. (1) Once the "YEAR" has been adjusted, press down to move to the "MONTH" setting mode. (2) Use the left or right keys to adjust the month in the same way as Step 3 on page 27. · By repeating procedures (1) and (2) above, adjust the date-and-time setting, and set the date format. · The date format can be selected from among three patterns: yy/mm/dd, dd/mm/yy, and mm/dd/yy. · By pressing the up, you can return to the previous screen and make corrections. 5 5. Once you have finished making all of the settings, press the MENU/SET button. 6. After finishing the settings... · If you turned the power ON with the main switch (by opening the lens cover), you can take pictures once the lens has reached its extended position. · If you made the settings after pressing the PLAY button, the LCD monitor will display playback images. * The internal clock is maintained by a back-up battery. Without a battery in the camera, the information will be maintained for about 24 hours. If the battery is removed for some time, you may have to reset the information (p.103). * Do not remove the battery from the camera for at least three hours after making new date-and-time settings. They will be lost if the back-up battery is not fully charged. 28 Basic Operation Holding Your Camera Taking Pictures - Hold the camera securely with both hands and your elbows against your body for a stable position. - To take a vertical picture, hold the camera so that the flash is at the top. Please be careful that your fingers, hair, or the strap do not cover the lens, flash, or the light sensor. Viewfinder and Indicator LEDs · In the macro-photo mode (p.42), we recommend that you use the LCD monitor for composing your pictures (p.35). If you use the viewfinder, what you can see and what the camera records may be different. Viewfinder LEDs (p.30) Green LED Red LED Auto-focus Mark Align the crosshairs on the subject of your picture. 29 Taking Pictures (Cont'd) Viewfinder LED Indicators When the LED Indicators light, they mean the following: · Green LED: (On) (Flashing) Camera ready to shoot (Flash does not fire) Warning that the camera cannot autofocus (AF) · Red LED: (On) (Flashing) Flash charging, Formatting the card Warning that your hands are shaking · Both Red and Green LEDs: (On) (Flashing) Camera ready to shoot (Flash fires). USB cable is being connected System error; Card has insufficient memory, is faulty, not formatted; Insufficient battery warning Card being accessed, images being processed, compressed/expanded, other processing. (Green LED flashing/Red LED on) 30 Taking Pictures (Cont'd) Taking Pictures using the Viewfinder 1 1. Opening the lens cover turns ON the power. When the power comes ON, the LCD monitor will be on. If you will be using the viewfinder, to conserve your battery, press the DISPLAY button and the LCD monitor will turn off. · If the surface of the lens is dirty, gently wipe it clean with a soft, dry cloth. 2 WT 2. Looking through the viewfinder, compose the photo you wish to take and determine the size of the subject using the zoom buttons. Also, put the auto focus mark on the subject you wish to bring into focus. · If you press the TELE (Telephoto) Zoom button, the camera zooms in, while if you press the WIDE (Wide-angle) button, it zooms out. · If the subject you wish to focus on is not in the screen center, use "Shooting with Focus Lock" (p.34). 3 3. Press the shutter button half way and the green LED will light, indicating that the focus and exposure are locked. · If it is difficult to focus, the green LED will flash. See page 33. · If the camera senses you are shaking, the red viewfinder LED will flash. 31 Taking Pictures (Cont'd) 4 4. Take a picture by pressing the shutter button all the way down. When it makes a sound, the shot has been taken, and the image will be recorded on the card (or built-in memory). · The beep will not sound if the beeper setting is turned off (p.102). 5. During recording to the card, the red LED and the self-timer LED on the front of the camera will come on, and the green LED will flash. · If you set the beep sound to off (p.102), the self-timer LED will not be lit. · While the card is processing image data, you cannot operate the camera. Once the red and green LEDs disappear, the recording has finished. Do not open the battery/card cover while the red and green LEDs are flashing. 6. When you are finished taking pictures, close the lens cover and turn OFF the power supply. Daytime (normal) shooting distances Focal Length Wide-angle* Telephoto** · If you wish to take a picture of a subject closer than the above ranges, use the macro-photo mode (pp.39, 42). Shooting Distance 0.5m (1.6ft) to infinity 0.8m (2.6ft) to infinity * Equivalent to 39mm in 35mm camera conversion ** Equivalent to 117mm in 35mm camera conversion 32 Taking Pictures (Cont'd) When you press the shutter halfway and the green LED flashes... This may suggest that the focusing on the subject is difficult, and/or the subject is too dark. Should this be the case, please take the following steps. · Make sure that the camera is not too close to the subject, then align the subject to the auto-focus mark in the center of the viewfinder. (For the shooting distance, see page 32.) · If the subject is too dark (such as a person in the shade), use the flash (pp.38, 40, 41). · Use a similar subject, at the same distance and with the same brightness, to adjust the auto focus and exposure. After the focus lock is set, aim at your original subject and shoot your picture (p.34). 33 Taking Pictures (Cont'd) Shooting with Focus Lock - If the subject you wish to focus on is not in the center of the screen, use the focus lock. 1. Align the auto focus mark on the subject, and push the shutter button halfway. The green LED light will come on, locking the focus position. · The exposure is fixed at the same time the focus is locked. · If you release your finger from the halfpushed shutter button, the focus lock will be released and you can repeat the procedure. 2. With the shutter button pressed halfway, re-compose your photo and press the shutter button all the way to take the picture. · When re-composing the photo, do not change the shooting distance. If the distance has changed, repeat the procedure. The following subjects may be difficult to bring into focus: · Subjects with no contrast (variance in brightness, e.g., the sky, a white wall, the hood of a car) · Subjects with only horizontal lines and no surface texture · Quickly moving subjects · Poorly lit subjects (in a dark place) · Subjects with a strong light or reflected light behind them · Subjects in a flickering light, such as a fluorescent light 34 Taking Pictures (Cont'd) Taking Pictures using the LCD Monitor - You can take a picture while looking at the LCD monitor, instead of through the viewfinder. - Using the LCD monitor consumes battery power at a high rate, so it is recommended to have a spare charged battery on hand (sold separately, Lithium-ion Battery NP-500), or to use the AC adapter (sold separately, AC-8U/AC-8E/AC8GB; see P.11 for details). 1 1. Once the power supply is turned on by opening the lens cover, the LCD monitor will come on, and a live image (the image taken though the lens) will be projected. · Date and time displayed will go off in approx. 5 seconds. 2. While looking at the LCD monitor, compose and take your photo. · The shooting procedures are the same as "Taking a picture using the viewfinder" (pp.31-32). · Focus value and shutter speed will be displayed on the live image by half depressing the shutter button on through image. · When the writing process to the card is completed, the live image will reappear. 35 Taking Pictures (Cont'd) Image Display Shooting with the LCD monitor displays the picture and the following other information: · You can set the camera so information is not displayed (p.101). 1 2 3 4 or, 4m 2m 1m 9 5 6 7 8 10 11 1 Recording Media Display This shows the media type. · SD Memory Card or MultiMedia Card : SD* · Memory Stick : MS · Built-in Memory : IN * Even when a Multi Media Card is used, the type will be displayed as SD. 4 Shooting Mode The selected shooting mode** will be displayed. ** For details on each shooting mode, see pages 38 to 43. 5 White Balance White balance icon will be displayed. For details of how to select the white balance, see 2 AF/AE Lock Display page 52 and 107. This will be displayed when the AF/AE Lock functions are used 6 Digital Zoom Magnification (pp.107-108). This will be displayed when the digital zoom function is used 3 Exposure Compensation (p.56). The compensation value will be displayed. For details of how to adjust the exposure, see pages 51 and 107. 36 7 Battery Remaining Display If the battery is being used, the remaining battery power will be displayed in two levels (p.19). Taking Pictures (Cont'd) 8 Counter The remaining number of pictures you can take will be displayed. 9 Date and time/focus value/shutter speed 1) The date and time will be displayed when turning the power on and when REC menu screen (p.44) or playback image (p.70) is changed back to a live image. Date and time displayed will go off in approx. 5 seconds. 2) Focus value and shutter speed will be displayed by half depressing the shutter button. 3) Focus value and shutter speed will be displayed all the time when setting up manual exposure (p.62). 10 Picture Size The picture size of the photo being taken will be displayed. 11 Picture Quality Mode 1)Normally the photo quality of the picture being taken is displayed. 2)When shooting a movie, played. is dis- About Auto Power Off Function If you do not operate for a certain period of time with the camera power on and the lens cover open, the auto power off function (pause status) will be activated and power will be turned off (with the lens still out). By pressing the shutter button, zoom button, or another button, the camera will return to the shooting mode. · When finished shooting, or if you are not going to take a picture for a long time, close the lens cover. · The default auto power off time is set at three minutes. This can be changed in the set-up menu (p.104). · When using an AC adapter, the auto power off function will be activated. 37 Selecting the Shooting Mode - Selecting different shooting modes enables you to create the best shooting condition for your subject. - Once a mode is set (apart from the self-timer), you can shoot continuously. It is recommended that the mode should be returned to AUTO mode (no display) after shooting. - You can set the self-timer for a 3- or a 10-second delay (factory setting), although the 10-second setting is effective for the next shot only. The 3-second setting remains in effect until you change it again. - Also, when you turn the camera OFF, the shooting mode you set is canceled and the camera automatically returns to AUTO-mode shooting operation (no display). But the flash-mode setting remains in effect even if you switch the power OFF and back ON. - Using the custom function (p.107) enables you to set up your favorite shooting modes. 1. Turn the power on so that the LCD monitor is lit. 2. By pressing left or right, bring up the desired shooting mode symbol on the LCD monitor. Pressing right enables the selection of the following modes. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) AUTO (Automatic Flash) Red Eye Reduction Fill-In Slow Sync Off (Flash Override) (p.40) (p.40) (p.41) (p.41) (p.41) · Every time right is pressed, the mode symbols will be displayed one by one, through the list. 38 Selecting the Shooting Mode (Cont'd) Pressing left enables the selection of the following modes. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) AUTO mode (no display) Macro-photo mode (p.42) Distant View mode (p.42) Self-Timer mode (p.43) Self-Timer + Macro-photo mode Self-Timer + Distant View mode 4m Fixed focus mode (p.43) 2m Fixed focus mode (p.43) 1m Fixed focus mode (p.43) · Every time left is pressed, the mode symbols will be displayed one by one, through the list. 39 Selecting the Shooting Mode (Cont'd) Switching the Flash Mode AUTO (Auto Flash) - This is the normal mode. When the camera is turned ON, it is set at Auto (Auto Flash). No symbol will be displayed on the LCD monitor. - The flash will operate automatically when it is dark. · The red light after the flash indicates charging; while it is lit, you cannot take a picture. · The shutter speed is slower than 1/60 second at wide angle and 1/90 second at telephoto. Keep in mind that the picture mayl be blurry due to camera shake. · It is best to use the red-eye reduction when using a flash with people. Flash Shooting Distances Focus Distance Wide-angle* Telephoto** * Equivalent to 39 mm in 35mm camera conversion Shooting Distance 0.5m (1.6ft) to 3.5m (9.9ft) 0.5m (1.6ft) to 2.0m (6.6ft) ** Equivalent to 117mm in 35mm camera conversion Red-Eye Reduction - Using this mode can reduce the "red-eye phenomenon", which is people with red glaring eyes caused by the flash. - When you press the shutter button, the pre-flash comes on, followed by the real flash which finishes the shot. · Until the real flash comes on, do not move the camera or let the subject move. · If the subject is not facing the pre-flash or final flash, or the distance to the subject is too far, the red-eye reduction effect may not be apparent. · The flash is in the AUTO flash mode and will not come on in a bright place. 40 Selecting the Shooting Mode (Cont'd) Fill-In - Use this mode when a shadow falls on the subject's face due to shade or artificial lighting, or when taking a picture against the light. - Regardless of the brightness of the surroundings, the flash will always fire. Slow-Sync - Use this mode when shooting a subject with a background of a night or evening view. - The flash will fire with a slow shutter speed. · Shutter speeds will be slower, so use a tripod to prevent shaking. · If the subject is moving, the picture will be blurred. Off (Flash Override) - Use this mode for places (such as a museum) where flash is prohibited, or when taking a picture of a night view, or taking a picture using indoor lighting. - The flash will not come on even when it is dark. · Use a tripod to prevent shaking as shutter speeds are slower in the dark. · If the red LED comes on when the shutter button is pressed half-way, this is a warning that the lighting is not sufficient and the resulting picture will be dark. 41 Selecting the Shooting Mode (Cont'd) Shooting Close Up/Long Range Macro-photo Mode - Use this mode when you want to be close to the subject. - If the distance between the camera and the subject is close, there will be a difference between the image in the viewfinder and the picture that is actually taken. It is recommended that the LCD monitor be used. · Use a tripod to prevent shaking, as shutter speeds are slower when taking close-ups. · The self-timer function can be used in conjunction with this function. . · If you use the flash when shooting very close to the subject, the image may come out too bright. For information about the flash shooting distance, see page 40. Macro-photo Mode Shooting Distances Focus Distance Wide-angle Telephoto Shooting Distance 6cm (2.4in.) to infinity 0.5m (1.6ft) to infinity Distant View Mode - Use this mode when shooting a distant subject, such as scenery or buildings. · Always use a tripod. · The flash will not come on. · The self-timer function can be used in conjunction with this function. 42 Selecting the Shooting Mode (Cont'd) Using the Self-Timer Self-Timer Mode - Use a tripod. - When the shutter button is pressed, the self-timer LED comes on, and after 10 seconds, a picture will be shot. · If you wish to cancel the self-timer function, close the lens cover. · After a picture is taken, the self-timer mode (10-second delay) will be cancelled. If you wish to use the self-timer repeatedly, set the mode every time you take a picture. · The activation time for the self-timer can be also set at "3-second delay" by using the set-up menu (p. 103). If you set the self-timer for a 3-second delay, the setting is not cancelled after shooting so that you can continue to take a picture using the self-timer. Taking photographs by fixing focus Fixed focus mode - Use this mode if you want to take photographs using fixed focus. - Distance can be set to 4m, 2m or 1m. · This mode is set to OFF as a default. In order to use this mode, select "MACRO" in custom mode menu and then set the mode setting to ON (p.109,3). 43 Advanced Shooting Using the REC Menu - By using the REC menu, you can take pictures with your desired settings. You can set the camera using the "REC (DETAILS) menu" (default setting), or "REC (BASIC)" (p.67). - The settings made with each menu will be maintained, even when power is turned off, until the settings are changed, unless otherwise described. Setting with the REC (DETAILS) Menu 1. Turn the power ON, with the LCD monitor on (through image display). Pressing the MENU/SET button will display the REC menu screen. 2. Select the menu you wish to set by pressing down or up. Every time the button is pressed, the menu mode changes as follows; RESOLUTION MOVIE ON EXPOSURE WHITE BALANCE AE MONOCHROME DIGITAL ZOOM MONITOR ADJ. VOICE ADD REC SLOW SHUTTER MAN EXPOSURE ON QUALITY SETUP RETURN down (p.46) (p.49) (p.51) (p.52) (p.54) (p.55) (p.56) (p.57) (p.58) (p.59) (p.61) (p.62) (p.64) (p.66) up 44 Using the REC Menu (Cont'd) 3. After selecting the menu, pressing right will display the set-up screen (screen 3) of the menu. After selecting the desired content with down or up, pressing right or the MENU/SET button will complete the set-up and will return you to screen 1. 4. You can cancel the REC Menu mode at Step 1 (REC Menu screen) on the left page by pressing left, or pressing right or the MENU/SET button after selecting "RETURN". This will close the menu and return you to the through image (picture shooting image). · For details of each set-up menu, refer to the pages hereafter. · If you press the shutter button half-way even when you are setting the menu, the display returns to the through image (picture shooting mode). 45 Using the REC Menu (Cont'd) Selecting a Combination of Image Sizes and Compression Ratios -You can select a combination of four image sizes and two compression ratios. - While using the same card, you can change the picture resolution settings for every photo. Every time you change the picture resolution, the number of images remaining will change and be displayed on the LCD monitor. - When quality is the priority, select "FINE"; when the number of photos is more important, select "NORMAL". 1 1. Select "RESOLUTION" and press right. 2 2. Use down or up to select image size or compressions ratio, then press right. 3 3. Select the picture size Use down or up to select the desired image size, then press either right or the MENU/SET button. You will return to screen 2 with your chosen size displayed. · If you press left, the setting is invalidated and you will return to screen 2. 46 Using the REC Menu (Cont'd) 4 4. Selecting the compression ratio Use down or up to select the desired compression ratio, then press either right or the MENU/SET button. You will return to screen 2 with your chosen compression ratio displayed. · If you press left, the setting is invalidated and you will return to screen 2. 47 Using the REC Menu (Cont'd) Image size and pixel count (width) x (height) 1) 2592 x 1944 pixels (approximately 5,040,000 pixels) This is the highest quality image. Use this mode for important pictures you want to keep, for images you want to edit on your computer, etc. As it is the largest, it is also ideal for printing out your enlarged photos. 2) 2048 x 1536 pixels (approximately 3,140,000 pixels) This mode is a good standard setting when you want to view memorable photos on your computer screen, or for printing them out. 3) 1600 x 1200 pixels (approximately 1,920,000 pixels) You can shoot pictures in high quality resolution with low memory requirements. This mode is suitable if you wish to take more shots and the memory does not have enough space. 4) 640 x 480 pixels (approximately 300,000 pixels) As this mode produces the smallest file size, it is best for sending via email, for use in home pages, etc. Standard number of pictures you can take in each resolution mode (without sound or motion) Image Size Compression Ratio 64 MB SD Memory Card Internal Memory (2592 x 1944) (2048 x 1536) (1600 x 1200) (640 x 480) FINE NORMAL FINE NORMAL FINE NORMAL FINE NORMAL About 30 Photos About 51 Photos About 53 Photos About 85 Photos About 91 Photos About 160 Photos About 320 Photos About 640 Photos About 10 Photos About 20 Photos 48 Using the REC Menu (Cont'd) Shooting Movies Set your camera to this mode to shoot movies. You can take a movie with sound for approximately 30 seconds. Your camera records an image with a 320 x 240 pixel count. While you are shooting a movie, the LCD monitor stays on. Even if you press the DISPLAY button, the LCD monitor will not turn off. Please view the LCD monitor while shooting your movies. 1 1. Select "MOVIE ON" and press right. 2 2. The display returns to the through image, with movie information displayed as in screen 2. In this screen you can start taking a movie. · When you are not recording a movie, press the MENU/SET button, select "MOVIE OFF" and then press the button. 49 Using the REC Menu (Cont'd) 2 3. When you press the shutter button, your movie will start recording. You can record for about 30 seconds. · You need not hold the shutter button down. · When the remaining time runs out, the camera stops recording automatically. If you wish to stop while the camera is recording, simply press the shutter button again. · The elapsed time is displayed on the upper right of the screen. NOTE: 1) While recording a movie, the sound is also being recorded, so take care not to cover the microphone on the top of the camera with your fingers, etc. 2) As long as the camera's power is ON, you can continue to take movies, but if you turn the power off, it exits the movie mode. If you turn the power back ON and wish to shoot another movie, reset the camera to the movie mode. 3) Once you have pushed the shutter button, and started taking a movie, you cannot use the optical zoom. 4) The digital zoom is also inoperable. 5) While shooting a movie, the sound is always recorded the with builtin microphone. Therefore, you cannot take a movie without sound. 50