User manual NIKON 4300

The Nikon Guide to Digital Photography with the DIGITAL CAMERA En Overview Thank you for your purchase of a COOLPIX4300 digital camera. The documentation for this product includes the manuals listed below. Please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly to get the most from your camera. Quick-Start Guide The Quick-Start Guide takes you through the process of unpacking and setting up your Nikon digital camera, taking your first pictures, and transferring them to your computer. Guide to Digital Photography The Guide to Digital Photography (this manual) provides complete operating instructions for your camera. Nikon View Reference Manual The Nikon View Reference Manual can be found in electronic format on the reference CD provided with your camera. Symbols To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions are used in this manual: This icon marks cautions, information that you should read before use to prevent damage to your camera. This icon marks tips, additional information you may find helpful when using your camera. This icon marks notes, information that you should read before using your camera. 2 3 For Your Safety To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others, read the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equipment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them. The consequences that could result from failure to observe the precautions listed in this section are indicated by the following symbols: This icon marks warnings, information that should be read before using your Nikon product to prevent possible injury. · When inserting the battery, do not attempt to insert it upside down or backwards. · Do not short or disassemble the battery. · Do not expose the battery to flame or to excessive heat. · Do not immerse in or expose to water. · Do not transport or store with metal objects such as necklaces or hairpins. · Batteries are prone to leakage when fully discharged. To avoid damage to the product, be sure to remove the battery when no charge remains. · When the battery is not in use, attach the terminal cover and store in a cool place. · Immediately after use, or when the product is used on battery power for an extended period, the battery may become hot. Before removing the battery, turn the camera off and allow the battery to cool. · When used with a 2CR5 (DL245) lithium battery, the camera grip may become noticeably warm, but this does not indicate a malfunction. · Discontinue use immediately should you notice any changes in the battery, such as discoloration or deformation. Use appropriate cables When connecting cables to the input and output jacks, use only the cables provided or sold by Nikon for the purpose, to maintain compliance with product regulations. Keep out of reach of children Particular care should be taken to prevent infants from putting the battery or other small parts into their mouths. Removing memory cards Memory cards may become hot during use. Observe due caution when removing memory cards from the camera. CD-ROMs The CD-ROMs on which the software and manuals are distributed should not be played back on audio CD equipment. Playing CD-ROMs on an audio CD player could cause hearing loss or damage the equipment. Observe caution when operating the flash Using the flash close to your subject's eyes could cause temporary visual impairment. Particular care should be observed if photographing infants, when the flash should be no less than one meter (3.3 ft.) from the subject. When using the viewfinder When operating the mode dial and the zoom button with your eye to the viewfinder, care should be taken not to put your finger in your eye accidentally. Avoid contact with liquid crystal Should the monitor break, care should be taken to avoid injury due to broken glass and to prevent liquid crystal from the monitor touching the skin or entering the eyes or mouth. WARNINGS Do not look at the sun through the viewfinder Viewing the sun or other strong light source through the viewfinder could cause permanent visual impairment. Turn off immediately in the event of malfunction Should you notice smoke or an unusual smell coming from the equipment or from the AC adapter (available separately), unplug the AC adapter and remove the battery immediately, taking care to avoid burns. Continued operation could result in injury. After removing the battery, take the equipment to a Nikon-authorized service center for inspection. Do not use in the presence of flammable gas Do not use electronic equipment in the presence of flammable gas, as this could result in explosion or fire. Do not place strap around neck Placing the camera strap around your neck could result in strangulation. Special care should be taken to avoid placing the strap around the neck of an infant or child. 4 Do not disassemble Touching the product's internal parts could result in injury. In the event of a malfunction, the product should be repaired only by a qualified technician. Should the product break open as the result of a fall or other accident, remove the battery and/or AC adapter and then take the product to a Nikonauthorized service center for inspection. Observe proper precautions when handling batteries Batteries may leak or explode if improperly handled. Observe the following precautions when handling batteries for use in this product: · Be sure the product is off before replacing the battery. If you are using an AC adapter, be sure it is unplugged. · Use only the Nikon EN-EL1 rechargeable lithium-ion battery (supplied) or a six-volt 2CR5 (DL245) lithium battery (available separately). · The EN-EL-1 is for use only with selected Nikon Digital cameras. Do not use the EN-EL1 in equipment not approved for use with this battery. 5 Notices · No part of the manuals included with this product may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form, by any means, without Nikon's prior written permission. · Nikon reserves the right to change the specifications of the hardware and software described in these manuals at any time and without prior notice. · Nikon will not be held liable for any damages resulting from the use of this product. · While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in these manuals is accurate and complete, we would appreciate it were you to bring any errors or omissions to the attention of the Nikon representative in your area (address provided separately). Notice for customers in Canada CAUTION This class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference Causing Equipment Regulations. ATTENTION Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada. Notice Concerning Prohibition of Copying or Reproduction Note that simply being in possession of material that has been digitally copied or reproduced by means of a scanner, digital camera or other device is punishable by law. · Items prohibited by law from being copied or reproduced Do not copy or reproduce paper money, coins, securities, government bonds, or local government bonds, even if such copies or reproductions are stamped "Sample." The copying or reproduction of paper money, coins, or securities which are circulated in a foreign country is prohibited. Unless the prior permission of the government has been obtained, the copying or reproduction of unused postage stamps or post cards issued by the government is prohibited. The copying or reproduction of stamps issued by the government and of certified documents stipulated by law is prohibited. · Cautions on certain copies and reproductions The government has issued cautions on copies or reproductions of securities issued by private companies (shares, bills, checks, gift certificates, etc.), commuter passes, or coupon tickets, except when a minimum of necessary copies are to be provided for business use by a company. Also, do not copy or reproduce passports issued by the government, licenses issued by public agencies and private groups, ID cards, and tickets, such as passes and meal coupons. · Comply with copyright notices The copying or reproduction of copyrighted creative works such as books, music, paintings, woodcut prints, maps, drawings, movies, and photographs is governed by national and international copyright laws. Do not use this product for the purpose of making illegal copies or to infringe copyright laws. Notice for customers in the U.S.A. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference Statement This equipment has been tested and found to E4300 comply with the limits for a Class B digital Tested To Comply device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. With FCC Standards These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio CAUTIONS frequency energy and, if not installed and used Modifications in accordance with the instructions, may cause The FCC requires the user to be harmful interference to radio communications. notified that any changes or However, there is no guarantee that interference modifications made to this device will not occur in a particular installation. If this that are not expressly approved by equipment does cause harmful interference to Nikon Corporation may void the radio or television reception, which can be user's authority to operate the determined by turning the equipment off and equipment. on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the Interface Cables interference by one or more of the following Use the interface cables sold or measures: provided by Nikon for your · Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. equipment. Using other interface · Increase the separation between the cables may exceed the limits of equipment and receiver. Class B Part 15 of the FCC rules. · Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver Nikon Inc., is connected. 1300 Walt Whitman Road, · Consult the dealer or an experienced Melville, New York radio/television technician for help. Trademark Information Apple, the Apple logo, Macintosh, Mac OS, Power Macintosh, PowerBook, and QuickTime are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. Finder, Macintosh PC Exchange, Power Mac, iMac, and iBook are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. IBM and IBM PC/AT are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation. PowerPC is a trademark of International Business Machines Corporation, used under license. Microsoft is a registered trademark, and Windows, MS-Windows and Windows NT trademarks, of Microsoft Corporation. Internet Explorer is a product of Microsoft Corporation. Pentium and i486 are trademarks of Intel Corporation. Internet is a trademark of Digital Equipment Corporation. Netscape and Netscape Navigator are registered trademarks of Netscape Communications Corporation. CompactFlash is a trademark of SanDisk Corporation. Lexar Media is a trademark of Lexar Media Corporation. Adobe and Acrobat are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Inc. Zip is a registered trademark of Iomega Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. All other trade names mentioned in this manual or the other documentation provided with your Nikon product are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. 11747-3064, U.S.A. Tel.: 631-547-4200 6 7 Table of Contents Overview ............................................................................................................3 For Your Safety ...............................................................................................4-5 Notices ...........................................................................................................6-7 Playing Pictures Back: Playback Options ...............................55-64 Full-Screen Playback .............................................................................56-57 Thumbnail Playback ....................................................................................58 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom ........................................................59 Creating a Small Copy of Picture: Small Picture .....................................60-61 Movie Playback ...........................................................................................62 Photo Information ..................................................................................63-64 Introduction ................................................................................11-22 Parts of the COOLPIX4300.........................................................12-15 First Steps ...................................................................................16-22 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Attach the Camera Strap and Lens Cap.................................................16 Insert the Battery...............................................................................16-18 Insert the Memory Card.....................................................................18-19 Choose a Language ...............................................................................20 Set the Date and Time ......................................................................21-22 Connections: Connecting to External Devices .......................65-68 Connecting to a Computer..........................................................................66-67 Connecting to a Television or VCR ...................................................................68 Getting Started...........................................................................23-38 Taking Pictures............................................................................24-29 1. 2. 3. 4. Ready the Camera............................................................................24-25 Compose the Picture ........................................................................26-27 Focus and Shoot ...................................................................................28 Turn the Camera Off...............................................................................29 Menu Guide: Camera Menu Options .....................................69-129 Index to Menu Options ...............................................................70-75 Using Camera Menus .................................................................76-78 Viewing the Menus ......................................................................................76 Making a Selection......................................................................................77 Accessing Multi-Page Menus ......................................................................78 The Set-Up Menu........................................................................79-95 To View the SET-UP Menu ..........................................................................79 Making Effective Use of Memory: The Image Size and Quality Menu .....80-82 Organizing Your Pictures: The Folders Menu .........................................83-86 Monitor Options ..........................................................................................87 Conserving Battery Power: Auto Off ...........................................................88 File Numbering: Seq. Number .....................................................................89 CF Card Format ..........................................................................................90 Storing Camera Settings: Controls .............................................................90 Confirming Shutter Release: Shot Confirm Lamp ........................................91 Photo Information and Transfer Setting: Pic Data/Transfer ....................91-92 Date ...........................................................................................................92 Interface ................................................................................................92-94 Language ...................................................................................................94 Restoring Default Settings: Reset All ...........................................................95 Reviewing Your Pictures.............................................................30-33 Quick Review ..............................................................................................31 Full-Screen Review......................................................................................32 Thumbnail Review .......................................................................................33 Getting Creative: Select Scene Mode........................................34-38 Beyond Point-and-Shoot: Camera Controls ...........................39-54 Shooting Mode Selection ................................................................40 Focus Mode: The 2 Button................................................41-45 Self-Timer ..............................................................................................42-43 Autofocus Mode (Continuous AF/Single AF)...........................................44-45 Digital Zoom: The yt Button ...............................................46-47 Flash Mode: The 3 Button .....................................................48-49 Making Movies .................................................................................50 Exposure Compensation: The 1 Button .....................................51 Keep or Delete: Picture Review.......................................................52 Sensitivity (ISO Equivalency) (å only) ........................................53 Manual Focus (å only) ................................................................54 8 9 The Shooting Menu...................................................................96-116 Keeping Colors True: White-Balance......................................................97-98 Measuring Light: Metering ...........................................................................99 Taking Pictures in a Sequence: Continuous .......................................100-101 Getting Sharper Pictures: BSS (Best-Shot Selector)..................................102 Adjusting Contrast and Brightness: Image Adjustment..............................103 Making Edges More Distinct: Image Sharpening .......................................104 Setting for Optional Lens Converters: Lens........................................105-106 Modifying Sensitivity from a Menu: Sensitivity............................................106 Exposure Options ..............................................................................106-110 Focus Options ...................................................................................111-113 Auto Bracketing .................................................................................114-115 Avoid "Grainy" Photographs: Noise Reduction ..........................................116 Introduction This chapter is divided into the following sections: Parts of the COOLPIX4300 Bookmark this section and refer to it as you read through the manual for information on the names and functions of camera parts. First Steps Before using your camera for the first time, complete the steps on the following pages. Parts of the COOLPIX4300 pp. 12-15 First Steps pp. 16-22 The Playback Menu ................................................................117-129 Deleting Pictures and Print Orders: Delete .........................................118-120 Selecting a Folder for Playback: Folders....................................................121 Automated Playback: Slide Show ......................................................122-123 Safeguarding Valuable Images: Protect .....................................................124 Hiding Images During Playback: Hide Image .............................................125 Ordering Prints: Print-Set ...................................................................126-127 Marking All Images for Transfer: Transfer ...................................................128 Selecting Small Picture Size: Small Pic......................................................129 Step Step 1 Attach the Camera Strap and Lens Cap Insert the Battery Insert the Memory Card Choose a Language Set the Date and Time Page 16 16-18 18-19 20 21-22 Technical Notes: Camera Care, Options and Resources ..131-146 Optional Accessories ..............................................................................132-133 Caring for the Camera and Battery .........................................................134-136 Web Resources..............................................................................................137 Troubleshooting.......................................................................................138-143 Specifications..........................................................................................144-146 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Index ........................................................................................148-151 10 11 Parts of the COOLPIX4300 The parts of the camera are identified below. For more information on the function of each part, refer to the page number that follows it. 1 5 2 6 3 7 4 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 9 10 11 A 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 B 19 20 21 22 23 Red-eye reduction/Self-timer lamp .............................p. 48/42 Built-in Speedlight ...........................................................p. 48 Battery chamber cover ....................................................p. 17 Battery chamber cover latch............................................p. 17 Viewfinder........................................................................p. 26 Lens ..............................................................................p. 144 Video output connector ...................................................p. 68 Tripod socket Flash-ready lamp (red) .....................................................p. 28 Autofocus lamp (green)....................................................p. 28 Viewfinder........................................................................p. 26 1 (exposure compensation/sensitivity)/5 button.................. .....................................................p. 51/53/32, 33, 52, 57, 58 2 (focus mode/manual focus)/6 button ......p. 41/54/63 3 (flash mode)/7 button ...................p. 49/32, 33, 57, 58 MENU button ............................................................p. 34, 76 QUICK p (quick review) button .....................................p. 30 Shutter release button .....................................................p. 28 Power switch.............................................................p. 24, 29 Zoom button .................................................p. 26, 46, 57, 59 TRANSFER button...........................................................p. 67 Camera strap eyelet ........................................................p. 16 Multi selector Memory card slot cover...................................................p. 19 USB connector (under cover) ..........................................p. 66 DC-in connector (under cover).........................................p. 18 Introduction--Parts of the COOLPIX4300 24 25 A Monitor ...........................................................................p. 14 B Mode dial........................................................................p. 15 12 13 A Monitor 4 1 8 9 11 10 2 3 5 6 7 15 16 17 18 B The Mode dial Introduction--Parts of the COOLPIX4300 19 12 21 13 14 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 22 23 20 Mode Description An automatic mode for simple, "point-and-shoot" snapshot pictures. This mode offers a choice of settings for specific scenes. Each of the 12 modes optimizes the camera for scenes of specific type, such as sunsets or portraits. Gives you complete control of all settings, including exposure mode. In this mode, you can record silent movies up to forty seconds in length. This mode lets you configure the camera's basic settings such as date, time etc. This mode is used to play back and delete pictures. Page 24 a (Auto) i (Scene) 34 In the shooting modes, the following indicators appear in the monitor. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Scene .......................................p. 34 Self-timer ..................................p. 42 Zoom indicator ....................p. 26/46 Progress bar (Ultra HS) ...........p. 100 "Date not set" icon*1.................p. 22 Manual focus indicator..............p. 54 Flash mode...............................p. 48 Current Folder name*2 ..............p. 86 Converter lens setting.............p. 105 Best Shot Selector .................p. 102 Noise reduction ......................p. 116 Exposure lock (Auto exposure lock/ White balance lock) ................p. 110 13 Bracketing/ White-balance bracketing .......p. 114 14 Continuous setting..................p. 100 15 Battery level indicator*3 .............p. 25 16 Spot metering target/ Focus area ........................p. 99/112 17 Image sharpening ...................p. 104 18 White balance...........................p. 97 19 Sensitivity (ISO equivalency)......p. 53 20 Black-and-white .....................p. 103 21 Image adjustment ...................p. 103 22 Image size ................................p. 82 23 Image quality ............................p. 81 24 Metering method ......................p. 99 25 Exposure mode ......................p. 107 26 Shutter speed.........................p. 108 27 Exposure display (manual exposure mode) .....................................p. 107 28 Aperture .................................p. 107 29 Exposure Compensation ..........p. 51 30 Number of exposures remaining/ Length of movie ..................p. 25/50 å (Manual) 96 m (Movie) 50 SETUP (Setup) 79 p (Playback) 117 *1 Blinks if date/time has not been set. *2 Not displayed when folder name is set to NIKON. *3 Only displayed when battery power drops below a certain level. 14 15 First Steps Step 1--Attach the Camera Strap and Lens Cap Camera Strap · Attach the strap as shown. 2 Turn the camera off 3 Open the battery-chamber cover Lens cap · Press the tabs on the lens cap to attach/detach it. · We recommend attaching the lens cap to the strap loop with the supplied cord to prevent it from being misplaced. · Pressing the battery-chamber cover latch /, slide the battery-chamber cover out ¤ and flip it open <. Introduction--First Steps 4 Insert the battery EN-EL1 2CR5 (DL245) Step 2--Insert the Battery Your camera is powered by a single rechargeable Nikon EN-EL1 lithium-ion battery or a non-rechargeable 2CR5 (DL245) lithium battery (available separately). · Insert a fully charged EN-EL1 or new 2CR5 (DL245) battery as shown in the label on the underside of the battery-chamber cover. 1 Charge the battery · The EN-EL1 is not fully charged at shipment. A battery charger is provided with the camera; we recommend that you charge the battery before use. Instructions for charging the battery may be found in the instruction manual included with the charger. 5 Close the battery-chamber cover · Close the battery chamber cover / and slide it to the closed position ¤. To prevent the battery being dislodged during operation, be sure that the battery chamber cover is properly latched. Read Battery Warnings Read and follow all warnings and instructions supplied by the battery manufacturer. 16 17 Alternative Power Sources In addition to the rechargeable Nikon EN-EL1 Lithium-ion battery included with your camera, the COOLPIX4300 can be used with non-rechargeable 2CR5 (DL245) lithium batteries, available at a variety of retail outlets. To power your camera continuously for extended periods, use an EH-21 AC adapter/battery charger or EH-53 AC adapter (both available separately). 2 Insert the memory card Terminals Connecting AC adapter to COOLPIX4300 DC-in connector Direction of insertion Front label The Clock Battery The camera's internal clock-calendar is powered by a separate, rechargeable power source, which is charged as necessary when the main battery is installed or the camera powered by an AC adapter (available separately). After charging for about ten hours, this power source can provide roughly ten hours of backup power. If the main battery has been removed for an extended period, or removed before charging is complete, a flashing icon may appear in the monitor, indicating that the clock needs to be reset. Insert card terminals first with front label facing camera back · Slide the card-slot cover out / and flip it open ¤. Hold the card with the arrow (s) facing towards you and insert it in the direction of the arrow <, sliding it in until it is firmly in place and the eject button pops up. Close the card slot cover >. Introduction--First Steps Removing Memory Cards Memory cards can be removed without loss of data when the camera is off. To remove memory cards, turn the camera off and open the card-slot cover /. Press the eject button to partially eject the card ¤ and then remove the card by hand. Step 3--Insert the Memory Card Your Nikon digital camera uses CompactFlashTM (CF) memory cards to store pictures (p. 133). 1 Turn the camera off 18 19 Step 4--Choose a Language Camera menus and messages can be displayed in your choice of German, English, French, Japanese or Spanish. Step 5--Set the Date and Time Information on the time and date of recording is included with all pictures and movies taken with your Nikon digital camera. To set the camera's internal clock to the correct time and date, display the set-up menu as described in steps 1-2 of "Choose a Language" and then follow the steps below: 1 Set mode dial to SETUP and turn camera on 2 SET-UP2 Controls Shot Confirm Lamp Pic data/Transfer Date Interface Language Reset All PAGE1 SELECT 1 SET Press MENU button to display SET-UP 2 menu SET-UP2 Controls Shot Confirm Lamp Pic data/Transfer Date Interface Language Reset All PAGE1 SELECT 2 SET DATE Y M D 2002. 01. 01 Introduction--First Steps 00 00 SELECT SET Highlight "Date" Display DATE menu 3 SET-UP2 Controls Shot Confirm Lamp Pic data/Transfer Date Interface Language Reset All PAGE1 SELECT 4 SET LANGUAGE Controls Shot Confirm Lamp Pic Data/Transfer Date Interface Language Reset All SELECT De En Fr EI Es SET 3 DATE Y M D 4 DATE Y M D 2002. 09. 01 00 00 SELECT SET 2002. 09. 15 15 3 0 SELECT SET Highlight "Language" Display options 5 LANGUAGE Controls Shot Confirm Lamp Pic data/Transfer Date Interface Language Reset All SELECT 6 De En Fr EI Es SET SET-UP2 Steuerung LampeAufnahmebestätigung Bilddaten/Transfer Datum Schnittstelle Sprache Wert löschen SEITE1 AUSW STL Highlight Year, Month, Day, hour or minute Edit selected item · Repeat steps 5 and 6 until all items have been set. 5 DATE Y M D 6 DATE M D Y 2002. 09. 15 15 3 0 SELECT SET 09. 15. 2002 15 3 0 SELECT SET Choose a language from: De : Deutsch (German) En : English Fr : Français (French) E : Japanese I Es : Español (Spanish) Press > to set Highlight YMD Choose order in which year, month and day will be displayed 20 21 7 SET-UP2 Controls Shot Confirm Lamp Pic data/Transfer Date Interface Language Reset All PAGE1 SELECT SET Press > to save changes to settings and return to SET-UP menu. Getting Started Taking Pictures pp. 24-29 Reviewing Your Pictures pp. 30-33 Getting Creative: Select Scene Mode pp. 34-38 Flashing Clock Icon Any pictures taken before the time and date have been set will have a time stamp of "0000.00.00 00:00." If the time and date have not been set, a flashing clock icon will be displayed in the top right corner of the monitor when the camera is in shooting mode. This chapter is divided into three sections: Taking Pictures Read this section for a step-by-step guide to the basics of taking pictures with the COOLPIX4300. Step Step Step Step 1 2 3 4 Step Ready the Camera Compose the Picture Focus and Shoot Turn the Camera Off Page 24-25 26-27 28 29 Reviewing Your Pictures Learn how to review and delete pictures while setting up your new shot. Getting Creative: Select Scene Mode Explore the creative possibilities of scene mode. 22 23 Taking Pictures The Basics This section details the basic steps involved in taking pictures in a (auto) mode. In this automatic, "point-and-shoot" mode, the majority of settings are controlled by the camera in response to lighting conditions and focus distance, producing the best possible results in most situations. 4 Check indicators in the monitor · Before shooting, check the battery level (A) and the number of exposures remaining (B). A 2272 1/250 F2.8 16 B Step 1--Ready the Camera (a Mode) Getting Started--Taking Pictures 1 Remove the lens cap · If you turn the camera on with the lens cap in place and the mode dial set to a, i, å or m, an error message will appear in the monitor. To clear this message from the display, turn the camera off and remove the lens cap. Battery level is displayed as follows: Display NO ICON M Warning!! Battery exhausted Meaning Battery fully charged. Low battery. Charge ENEL1 as soon as possible or ready new 2CR5 (DL245) battery. Battery exhausted. Charge EN-EL1 and reinsert, or use new 2CR5 (DL245) battery. Camera status Camera functions normally. As above, except that only a limited number of shots can be taken in Continuous mode (p. 100). Shutter release disabled. 2 Turn the mode dial to a · If the message "Out of memory" appears in the monitor, the memory card is full. Delete pictures (p. 118), use a new memory card, or choose a lower quality of image size (p. 82). Auto Power Off To save power, the camera will enter "sleep" mode if no operations are performed for the period of time specified in the Auto Off menu (default 30 seconds; p. 88). In sleep mode, the monitor turns off and all camera functions are deactivated. The camera itself is effectively off. To reactivate the camera, press the shutter release button halfway. 3 Turn the camera on · The lens zooms out when the camera is turned on and the green lamp next to the viewfinder will turn on for a few seconds. 24 25 Step 2-- Compose the Picture Monitor or Viewfinder? Use the monitor to confirm camera settings at a glance while at the same time viewing an image that shows how the final picture will appear. This is particularly important when the image in the viewfinder does not accurately reflect what will appear in the final picture, for example when: · macro close-up is used (p. 42) · your subject is within 1.5 m (4.9 ft.) of the camera · you are using digital zoom (p. 46) · you are using an optional lens converter for wide-angle or telephoto photography (p. 105) Using the viewfinder allows you to save power by turning the monitor off (see below). The viewfinder can also be used when bright ambient lighting conditions make the display in the monitor difficult to see. 1 Ready the camera. · Pictures can be framed in the monitor (A) or viewfinder (B). · To prevent camera shake, hold the camera steadily in both hands. Getting Started--Taking Pictures 2 Frame your subject. Indicator in monitor displays amount of zoom while either W or T is pressed. Zoom out Zoom in 1/250 F4.9 2272 16 Controlling the Monitor The on the Multi selector controls the monitor display in a and å mode. Press to cycle through monitor settings as shown at below. · Frame your subject using the zoom button. Press the W to zoom out from your subject. Press the T to zoom in on your subject. · When the camera is zoomed all the way in, hold T down for about two seconds to enlarge the image by a further four times using digital zoom (p. 46). When digital zoom is in effect, the autofocus lamp next to the viewfinder will blink and the zoom indicator will turn yellow to warn you to frame pictures in the monitor. 2272 1/250 F2.8 16 Indicators displayed Indicators hidden Monitor off Don't Block the Shot To avoid dark or partially obscured pictures, keep your fingers and other objects away from the lens and flash window. 26 27 Step 3--Focus and Shoot The COOLPIX4300 has a two-stage shutter release button. Step 4--Turn the Camera Off When you have finished using the camera, turn the camera off to save battery power. 1 Focus · Press the shutter release button halfway to set focus and exposure. In a mode, the camera focuses on the subject in the center of the frame. Check the indicator lamps (see table below). Getting Started--Taking Pictures Lamp On Flash-ready lamp (red) Blinks rapidly Off On Autofocus lamp (green) Flickers Meaning Flash will fire when picture is taken. Flash charging. Remove finger briefly from shutter release button, then try again. Flash not required or flash set to "off". Subject in focus. Camera unable to focus on subject. Use focus lock to focus on another subject at the same distance, then recompose your picture (p. 45). 2 Take the picture · To take a picture, press the shutter release button all the way down. During Recording While pictures are being recorded to the memory card, the autofocus lamp (green) will blink. Pictures taken while earlier images are being recorded are stored in a temporary memory buffer. When the buffer is full, an hourglass (W) icon will be displayed and the shutter release will be disabled. Do not turn the camera off, remove the memory card, or remove or disconnect the power source while W is displayed or while the green autofocus lamp is blinking. 28 29 Reviewing Your Pictures With a digital camera, you can view pictures immediately after they are taken. You can view the results of earlier attempts while setting up your next shot and use what you see to change camera settings or choose a better angle. 2002.09.15 15:40 100NI KON 100NIKON 100NIKON 0001.JPG 000 JPG Quick Review When you press the QUICK p button to enter quick review mode, the most recent picture on the memory card will be displayed at the top left corner of the monitor. The following operations can be performed: To Press 1 2272 1/250 F2.8 15 > 2272 1/250 F2.8 16 15 Shooting Mode > 1 2272 > 1/ 1 Full-Screen Review Last picture taken displayed full screen 2272 Description Press < to view images recorded before the current picture or > for pictures recorded after. Hold it down to scroll rapidly to the desired picture. 1/250 F2.8 15 Quick Review Last picture taken displayed in top left corner of monitor View other pictures Getting Started--Reviewing Your Pictures View current picture full screen QUICK p Enter full-screen review (see next page) with the current pictures displayed full screen. Return to shooting Shutter release To return to shooting mode, press the mode shutter release button. button · To end quick review or full-screen review and focus the camera for the next shot, press the shutter release button halfway. 30 31 Full-Screen Review From quick review, press the QUICK p button to enter full-screen review. The picture displayed in quick-review mode will be displayed full screen. The following operations can be performed: To View other pictures 2002.09.15 15:40 100NI KON 100NIKON 100NIKON 0001. 000 JPG Thumbnail Review Pressing the 7 button in full-screen review displays a menu of nine thumbnail images. The following operations can be performed while thumbnails are displayed: 1 4 7 To Press Description Press // on the Multi selector to highlight a thumbnail With nine thumbnails displayed, press the 7 button once to view four thumbnail images. Press T (t) to "zoom in" from nine thumbnails to a four-thumbnail view, or when four thumbnails are displayed, to view highlighted picture full size. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. Press / on the Multi selector to highlight the option and > to select. Press the 7 button to display a set of up to nine thumbnail pictures (see next page). Pictures selected for transfer are marked with a D icon. Turn this marking on or off to select the pictures that will be transferred to a computer at a later date. Press the QUICK p button to end review and return to shooting mode. To return to shooting mode and focus, press shutter release button halfway. Select current picture for transfer to a computer TRANSFER Delete highlighted picture 2 5 8 3 6 9 2272 1/ 1 Press Description Press < to view images recorded before the current picture, and > for images recorded after. Hold it down to scroll rapidly to desired picture. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. Press / on the Multi selector to highlight the option and > to select. Highlight images Getting Started--Reviewing Your Pictures Delete current picture 5 (1) Erase 1 Image(s) Yes/No? · Select No to keep picture · Select Yes to delete picture Change number of pictures displayed 7/T (t) View multiple Pictures Select current picture for transfer to a computer 7 (3) TRANSFER 5 Erase 1 Image(s) Yes/No? · Select No to keep picture · Select Yes to delete picture Return to shooting mode Shutter release/ QUICK p button Pictures selected for transfer are marked with a D icon. Turn this marking on or off to select the pictures that will be transferred to a computer at a later date. Press the QUICK p button to end review Return to shooting Shutter release/ and return to shooting mode. To return to QUICK p mode shooting mode and focus, press shutter button release button halfway. For more information on Playback: P. 55-64 32 33 Getting Creative: Select Scene Mode The COOLPIX4300 offers a choice of twelve "scene" modes for common subjects and shooting situations. To choose a scene: Depending on the scene selected, restrictions may apply to flash (p. 48) and focus mode (p. 41). The table of scene choices on the pages that follow lists the flash and focus mode settings possible in each scene. If in doubt about the meanings of the icons used, consult the following table: Icon None P DONE 1 Set mode dial to SCENE and turn camera on 2 SCENE 1 Portrait Party/Indoor Night Portrait Beach/Snow Lnadscape Landscape Sunset OFF SELECT Flash mode (3) Auto Flash Cancel Auto with red-eye reduction Anytime Flash (fill flash) Slow sync Icon None 0 @ TM 0TM Focus mode (2) Autofocus (Auto) Self-timer Infinity Macro Close-up Macro close-up+ self-timer # O SLOW Press the MENU button to display the SCENE mode menu SCENE 2 Night Landscape Museum Fireworks Show Close Up Copy Back Light OFF SELECT 3 SCENE 1 Portrait Party/Indoor Night Portrait Beach/Snow Landscape Sunset OFF SELECT DONE In scenes in which the flash turns off (P) automatically, shutter speeds slow and pictures may be blurred by inadvertent camera movement ("camera shake"). While use of a tripod is recommended, other methods that may be successful in preventing blurring are indicated by the "camera shake" rating: DONE Getting Started--Getting Creative Press / to highlight the desired composition type * Support the camera steadily in both hands with your elbows against your torso. ** Use a tripod or place the camera on a flat, level surface such as a wall or table. 4 2272 1/250 F2.8 16 Press > to make the selection and return to shooting mode · The selected scene mode icon is displayed on the monitor. · Image quality and size can be adjusted from the SETUP menu (p. 80). Note on SCENE mode When you press the MENU button to display the SCENE mode menu, the most-recently selected setting will be highlighted. Press the MENU button a second time to exit the menu. 34 · Depending on the subject, SCENE mode setting may not always produce the desired results. If you are dissatisfied with the results in SCENE mode, try using a mode instead. 35 Scene Description Use for portraits. Main subject stands out clearly while background details are softened, lending the composition a sense of depth. · Degree to which background details are softened depends on the amount of light available · Focus area can be selected manually using multi selector (p. 112). Use for shots that include details of the background behind the main subject, or to capture the effects of candlelight and other indoor background lighting. Use for shots that provide a natural balance between the main subject and the background when shooting portraits against a backdrop of night scenery. Vividly captures the brightness of such subjects as snowfields, beaches, or sunlight expanses of water. 3 2 Camera (p. 48) (p. 41) shake Scene Description Captures the beautiful reds in sunsets or sunrises exactly as you see them. 3 2 Camera (p. 48) (p. 41) shake Auto, 0, @ j Sunset Auto, 0 P * s Portrait Any -- Use for pictures that employ slow shutter Night speeds to produce Landscape stunning night landscape. k P 0, @ ** Getting Started--Getting Creative d Party/ Indoor # Auto, 0 v * Museum Use indoors where flash photography is prohibited (for example in museums and art galleries) or in other settings in which you do not want to use the flash. · Photography may be prohibited altogether in some settings. Be sure to obtain permission first. Slow shutter speeds are used to capture the expanding burst of light from a firework. Use to take up-close pictures of subjects such as flowers or insects, with an artistically blurred background. · Focus area can be selected manually using multi selector (p. 112). · Focus distance is 4cm (1.6 in.) to 20cm (7.9 in.) from the lens. · Minimum focus distance varies with zoom position. When camera is zoomed in to widest zoom position, focus mode indicator (TM) in monitor will turn yellow. At this position, camera can focus on objects as close as 4cm (1.6 in.) from the lens. P Auto, 0, TM, 0TM * f Night Portrait # Auto, 0 * l Fireworks Show P @ ** g Beach/ Snow Any Any -- Use for vivid landscape h shots that enhance Landscape outlines, colors, and contrast in such subjects as skyscapes and forests. z Close Up P 0, @ -- P TM, 0TM * 36 37 Scene Description Use to obtain clear pictures of text or drawings on a white board, business card, or in printed matter. To shoot a close subject, set the camera to Macro close-up mode (p. 42). · In autofocus mode, minimum shooting distance becomes approximately 70cm (2.3 ft.) from the lens. · Minimum focus distance varies with zoom position. When Macro close-up mode is selected and camera is zoomed in to widest zoom position, focus mode indicator (TM) in monitor will turn yellow. At this position, camera can focus on objects as close as 4cm (1.6 in.) from the lens. 3 2 Camera (p. 48) (p. 41) shake Camera Controls Beyond Pointand-Shoot Any Any -- Shooting-Mode Selection p. 40 Focus Mode pp. 41-45 Digital Zoom pp. 46-47 Flash Mode pp. 48-49 Making Movies p. 50 Exposure Compensation p. 51 Keep or Delete pp. 52 Sensitivity (ISO Equivalency) p. 53 Manual Focus p. 54 x Copy Read this chapter for advice on the most frequently-used shooting controls, including: Shooting-Mode Selection Focus Mode Digital Zoom Flash Mode Use when light is coming from behind your subject, throwing their features into c shadow, or when your Back Light subject is in the shade but the background is brightly lit. The flash will fire automatically to "fill in" (illuminate) shadows. O Auto, 0 Making Movies -- Exposure Compensation Keep or Delete Sensitivity (ISO Equivalency) Manual Focus Noise Reduction "Noise" in the form of randomly-spaced, brightly-colored pixels tends to appear in pictures taken at slow shutter speeds. This effect is particularly noticeable in dark areas of the picture. At a setting of Night Portrait and Night Landscape, pictures taken at shutter speeds of 1/4 sec. or slower are processed to reduce noise (note that this increases the time needed to process pictures before they are saved to the memory card). NR is displayed when noise reduction is in effect. 38 39 Shooting-Mode Selection This section describes when to use each of the shooting modes. To choose a shooting mode, turn the mode dial to the appropriate position. Focus Mode The 2 Button Choose a focus mode according to your subject and composition. Setting Description Camera automatically adjusts focus according to distance to subject. Use with subjects 30 cm (1 ft.) , 60 cm (2 ft.) or more from lens. Combines autofocus with self-timer duration of 10 or 3 sec. Use for self-portrait or prevent pictures from blurring when shutter release button is pressed. Focus is fixed at infinity, allowing camera to focus on distant scenes through foreground objects such as a window. Flash is disabled. In widest zoom range, TM icon in monitor turns yellow and camera can focus on objects as close as 4 cm (1.6 in.), measured from the lens. Use for close-ups. Combines macro close-up with shutter-release delay of 10 or 3 sec. Use for close-ups to prevent pictures from blurring when shutter release button is pressed. No icon Autofocus Autofocus + self-timer 0 Beyond Point-and-Shoot--Shooting Mode Selection/Focus Mode