User manual NIKON D200

About This Manual The topics in this manual are arranged in order from easy to advanced. These chapters cover all you need to know for simple, "point-and-shoot" photography Read these chapters for a complete description of all aspects of camera operation Introduction (page 1) Learn the names of camera parts and ready the camera for use. Tutorial: Photography and Playback (page 17) The basic operations involved in taking photographs and playing them back. Reference: More on Photography (page 26) Play with exposure and explore the creative possibilities of some of the camera's more advanced settings. Reference: More on Playback (page 98) Learn more about camera playback, transferring photographs to a computer, and printing photographs. Setup: Basic Camera Settings (page 115) Basic camera setup, including formatting memory cards and setting the camera clock. Setup: Shooting, Playback, and Custom Settings (page 124) Read this chapter for more information on Custom Settings and on shooting and playback options. Technical Notes (page 173) Read this chapter for information on camera specifications, accessories, and troubleshooting. Trademark Information Macintosh, Mac OS, and QuickTime are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. CompactFlash is a trademark of SanDisk Corporation. Lexar Media is a trademark of Lexar Media Corporation. Microdrive is a trademark of Hitachi Global Storage Technologies in the United States and other countries. Adobe and Acrobat are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Inc. PictBridge is a trademark. 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. Introduction Tutorial Photography and Playback Reference More on Photography More on Playback Setup Basic Camera Settings: The Setup Menu Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu Playback Options: The Playback Menu Custom Settings: The Custom Settings Menu Technical Notes i For Your Safety To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others, read the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equipment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them. The consequences that could result from failure to observe the precautions listed in this section are indicated by the following symbol: This icon marks warnings, information that should be read before using this Nikon product to prevent possible injury. 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 the neck of an infant or child Placing the camera strap around the neck of an infant or child could result in strangulation. 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 Nikon-authorized 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 batteries approved for use in this equipment. Do not mix old and new batteries or batteries of different types. Do not attempt to insert the battery 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. Replace the terminal cover when transporting the battery. Do not transport or store with metal objects such as necklaces or hairpins. · · · · · · · ii · 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. · 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 Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury. 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 using the flash · Do not operate the flash with the flash window touching a person or object. Failure to observe this precaution could result in burns or fire. · 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 (39) from the subject. When using the viewfinder When operating the diopter adjustment control 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. iii Notices · No part of the manuals included with this · Nikon will not be held liable for any damages product may be reproduced, transmitted, tran- resulting from the use of this product. scribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated · While every effort has been made to ensure into any language in any form, by any means, that the information in these manuals is acwithout Nikon's prior written permission. curate and complete, we would appreciate it · Nikon reserves the right to change the were you to bring any errors or omissions to specifications of the hardware and software the attention of the Nikon representative in described in these manuals at any time and your area (address provided separately). without prior notice. Notices for Customers in the U.S.A. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference Statement This equipment has been tested and found D200 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 fre- CAUTIONS quency energy and, if not installed and used Modifications in accordance with the instructions, may cause The FCC requires the user to be notified that harmful interference to radio communications. any changes or modifications made to this deHowever, there is no guarantee that interfer- vice that are not expressly approved by Nikon ence will not occur in a particular installation. Corporation may void the user's authority to If this equipment does cause harmful interfer- operate the equipment. ence 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 receiver. · Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. · Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ television technician for help. Interface Cables Use the interface cables sold or provided by Nikon for your equipment. Using other interface cables may exceed the limits of Class B Part 15 of the FCC rules. Notice for Customers in the State of California WARNING: Handling the cord on this product will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. Nikon Inc., 1300 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, New York 11747-3064, U.S.A. Tel.: 631-547-4200 ATTENTION Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada. iv Notice for Customers in Canada CAUTION This class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference Causing Equipment Regulations. Symbol for Separate Collection in European Countries This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately. The following apply only to users in European countries: · This product is designated for separate collection at an appropriate collection point. Do not dispose of as household waste. · For more information, contact the retailer or the local authorities in charge of waste management. 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 may be punishable by law. · Items prohibited by law from being copied or repro- · Cautions on certain copies and reproductions duced The government has issued cautions on copDo not copy or reproduce paper money, ies or reproductions of securities issued by coins, securities, government bonds, or local private companies (shares, bills, checks, gift government bonds, even if such copies or re- certificates, etc.), commuter passes, or coupon productions are stamped "Sample." tickets, except when a minimum of necessary copies are to be provided for business use by The copying or reproduction of paper money, a company. Also, do not copy or reproduce coins, or securities which are circulated in a passports issued by the government, licenses foreign country is prohibited. issued by public agencies and private groups, Unless the prior permission of the govern- ID cards, and tickets, such as passes and meal ment has been obtained, the copying or coupons. reproduction of unused postage stamps or · Comply with copyright notices post cards issued by the government is proThe copying or reproduction of copyrighted hibited. creative works such as books, music, paintThe copying or reproduction of stamps issued ings, woodcut prints, maps, drawings, movby the government and of certified docu- ies, and photographs is governed by national and international copyright laws. Do not use ments stipulated by law is prohibited. this product for the purpose of making illegal copies or to infringe copyright laws. Disposing of Data Storage Devices Please note that deleting images or formatting memory cards or other data storage devices does not completely erase the original image data. Deleted files can sometimes be recovered from discarded storage devices using commercially available software, potentially resulting in the malicious use of personal image data. Ensuring the privacy of such data is the user's responsibility. Before discarding a data storage device or transferring ownership to another person, erase all data using commercial deletion software, or format the device and then completely refill it with images containing no private information (for example, pictures of empty sky). Be sure to also replace any pictures selected for preset white balance. Care should be taken to avoid injury or damage to property when physically destroying data storage devices. v Table of Contents For Your Safety .................................................................................................................................... Notices ................................................................................................................................................... Introduction ............................................................................................................ Getting to Know the Camera......................................................................................................... First Steps ............................................................................................................................................. Attaching a Lens ............................................... 8 Inserting Memory Cards .............................. Charging and Inserting the Battery ...... 10 Adjusting Viewfinder Focus ....................... Basic Setup ........................................................... 12 Tutorial: Photography and Playback .................................................................... Basic Photography ............................................................................................................................ Basic Playback ..................................................................................................................................... Reference ................................................................................................................ Using Camera Menus ....................................................................................................................... Reference: More on Photography ......................................................................... Choosing a Shooting Mode ........................................................................................................... Image Quality and Size .................................................................................................................... Image Quality ..................................................... 28 Image Size ............................................................. ISO Sensitivity ..................................................................................................................................... White Balance ..................................................................................................................................... Optimizing Images............................................................................................................................ Color Space .......................................................................................................................................... Focus ...................................................................................................................................................... Focus Mode ......................................................... 51 Focus Lock ............................................................ Focus Area Selection ...................................... 53 The AF-Assist Illuminator ............................. AF-Area Mode..................................................... 54 Getting Good Results with Autofocus Focus Zone Selection .................................... 55 Manual Focus ...................................................... Exposure ............................................................................................................................................... Metering ................................................................ 61 Exposure Compensation ............................. Exposure Mode.................................................. 62 Exposure and Flash Bracketing ................ Autoexposure Lock ......................................... 70 Flash Photography ............................................................................................................................ Flash Sync Modes ............................................. 77 Flash Exposure Compensation ................ Using the Built-in Flash ................................. 78 FV Lock .................................................................... Self-Timer Mode ................................................................................................................................. Image Overlay and Multiple Exposure....................................................................................... Interval Timer Photography ........................................................................................................... Non-CPU Lenses................................................................................................................................. Using a GPS Unit ................................................................................................................................ Two-Button Reset .............................................................................................................................. ii iv 1 2 8 14 16 17 17 17 22 23 23 24 26 26 26 28 32 33 35 45 50 51 56 58 59 60 61 72 73 76 80 81 83 84 89 93 96 97 vi Reference: More on Playback ................................................................................ 98 98 Viewing Photographs....................................................................................................................... 98 Single-Image Playback .................................. 98 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom.. 103 Photo Information ........................................... 99 Protecting Photographs Viewing Multiple Images: from Deletion...................................................... 104 Thumbnail Playback ....................................... 102 Deleting Individual Photographs ........... 105 Viewing Photographs on TV .......................................................................................................... 106 Connecting to a Computer ............................................................................................................ 107 Printing Photographs ....................................................................................................................... 110 Setup ....................................................................................................................... 115 115 Basic Camera Settings: The Setup Menu ................................................................................... 115 Format ..................................................................... 116 Auto Image Rotation ...................................... 119 LCD Brightness ................................................... 116 Recent Settings.................................................. 119 Mirror Lock-Up ................................................... 117 USB ............................................................................ 121 Video Mode.......................................................... 117 Dust Off Ref Photo ........................................... 121 World Time ........................................................... 117 Battery Info ........................................................... 123 Language .............................................................. 118 Firmware Version .............................................. 123 Image Comment .............................................. 118 Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu ..................................................................................... 124 Shooting Menu Bank ..................................... 125 RAW Compression ........................................... 130 Menu Reset .......................................................... 127 White Balance ..................................................... 130 Folders ..................................................................... 128 Long Exp. NR ....................................................... 131 File Naming .......................................................... 129 High ISO NR ......................................................... 131 Optimize Image................................................. 129 ISO Sensitivity ..................................................... 132 Color Space .......................................................... 129 Image Overlay .................................................... 132 Image Quality ..................................................... 129 Multiple Exposure ............................................ 132 Image Size ............................................................. 130 Interval Timer Shooting ................................ 132 JPEG Compression ........................................... 130 Non-CPU Lens Data ........................................ 132 Playback Options: The Playback Menu ...................................................................................... 133 Delete ...................................................................... 133 Display Mode ...................................................... 141 Playback Folder .................................................. 135 Image Review ..................................................... 141 Slide Show ............................................................ 135 After Delete .......................................................... 142 Hide Image ........................................................... 137 Rotate Tall .............................................................. 142 Print Set .................................................................. 139 Custom Settings ................................................................................................................................. 143 Technical Notes ....................................................................................................... 173 Optional Accessories ........................................................................................................................ 173 Caring for the Camera ...................................................................................................................... 184 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................ 189 Appendix .............................................................................................................................................. 195 Specifications ...................................................................................................................................... 203 Index....................................................................................................................................................... 208 vii Take Test Shots Before taking pictures on important occasions (for example, at weddings or before taking the camera with you on a trip), take a test shot to ensure that the camera is functioning normally. Nikon will not be held liable for damages or lost profits that may result from product malfunction. Life-Long Learning As part of Nikon's "Life-Long Learning" commitment to ongoing product support and education, continually-updated information is available on-line at the following sites: · For users in the U.S.A.: http://www.nikonusa.com/ · For users in Europe and Africa: http://www.europe-nikon.com/support · For users in Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East: http://www.nikon-asia.com/ Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information, tips, answers to frequently-asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital imaging and photography. Additional information may be available from the Nikon representative in your area. See the URL below for contact information: http://nikonimaging.com/ viii Introduction Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon D200 single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera with interchangeable lenses. This manual has been written to help you enjoy taking pictures with your Nikon digital camera. Read this manual thoroughly before use, and keep it handy when using the product. The documentation for this product also includes the manuals listed below. Please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly to get the most from the 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 photographs, and transferring them to your computer. · Software manual (on CD): The software manual contains information on using the software provided with your camera. For information on viewing the software manual, see the Quick Start Guide. To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions are used: This icon marks cautions, information that should be read before use to prevent damage to the camera. This icon marks notes, information that should be read before using the camera. This icon marks settings that can be adjusted using camera menus. This icon marks tips, additional information that may be helpful when using the camera. This icon indicates that more information is available elsewhere in this manual or in the Quick Start Guide. This icon marks settings that can be fine-tuned from the Custom Settings menu. Introduction Lens An AF-S DX 18­70 mm f/3.5­4.5G ED lens is used in this manual for illustrative purposes. The parts of the lens are shown below. Focus ring: Focal length scale 60 Mounting index: 8 CPU contacts: 176 Zoom ring A-M mode switch: 60 1 Getting to Know the Camera Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with camera controls and displays. You may find it helpful to bookmark this section and refer to it as you read through the rest of the manual. Introduction--Getting to Know the Camera Camera Body Accessory shoe: 180 Flash pop-up button: 78 Built-in flash: 76 (flash sync mode) button: 78 [ Flash compensation: 80] Flash sync terminal: 180 Eyelet for camera strap: 9 10-pin remote terminal: 182 Lens release button: 8 Connector cover: 106 106 Focus-mode selector: 19, 51 Video connector: DC-IN connector for optional EH-6 AC adapter: 181 USB connector: 108, 111 2 AF-assist illuminator: [Self-timer lamp: [Red-eye reduction lamp: 58 83] 77] Introduction--Getting to Know the Camera Sub-command dial: 170 Eyelet for camera strap: 9 Depth-of-field preview button: 62 FUNC. button: Battery-chamber cover: Battery-chamber cover latch: 170 11 11 Tripod socket Shutter-release button: 20 Power switch: 17 [Illuminator switch: [ QUAL (image quality/size) button: 29, 32 [ (reset) button: 97] Mode dial lock release: 26 (exposure mode) button: 62 (format) button: 14] 5] (exposure compensation) button: 72 [ (reset) button: 97] Control panel: 5 WB (white balance) button: 35­44 Mode dial: 26 ISO (ISO sensitivity) button: (focal plane mark): 33 60 3 Camera Body (continued) Viewfinder eyepiece cup Introduction--Getting to Know the Camera Viewfinder eyepiece: 83, 90, 181 [ (delete) button: 22, 105 (format) button: 14] Diopter adjustment control: 16, 181 Metering selector: 61 (AE / AF lock) button: 56, 70 Main command dial: 170 (AF-ON) button: 52 Focus selector lock: 53 Memory card slot cover: 14 Memory card access lamp: 14 AF-area mode selector: Card slot cover latch: 14 54 (bracketing) button: 43, 73 (playback) button: 22, 98 (menu) button: 24 (thumbnail) button: 102 (protect ) button: 104 [ ? (help) button: 24] (enter) button: 24 [ (playback zoom) button: 103] Monitor: 9, 116, 184 Multi selector The multi selector is used for menu navigation and to control the display of photo information during playback. View more photo info Move cursor up View previous photo Return to previous menu Cancel View more photo info Move cursor down Playback ( 98) Menu navigation ( View next photo Display sub-menu Make selection Change number of images displayed Make selection 24) 4 Control Panel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 9 10 1 Color temperature indicator ........................38 2 Shutter speed ..............................................62­69 Exposure compensation value ..................72 Flash compensation value ............................80 ISO sensitivity ........................................................33 White balance fine-tuning, color temperature, or preset number .......37­42 Number of shots in bracketing sequence .................................................................73 Number of intervals ..........................................91 Focal length (non-CPU lens) ........................94 3 Flash sync indicator ...........................................79 4 Flexible program indicator ...........................63 5 Exposure mode....................................................62 6 "Clock not set" indicator ..............................117 7 Image size ...............................................................32 18 19 20 30 29 8 Image quality ........................................................28 9 Focus area ...............................................................53 AF-area mode .......................................................54 10 White balance mode ........................................35 11 Number of exposures remaining .............17 Number of shots remaining before memory buffer fills ............................27 PC mode indicator ..........................................108 Preset white balance recording indicator ...................................................................40 12 "K" (appears when memory remains for over 1000 exposures) ......................................... 7 13 Battery indicator ..................................................17 14 Flash sync mode .................................................77 15 "Beep" indicator .................................................158 16 Aperture (f/-number) ..............................62­69 Aperture (number of stops) .................67, 69 Bracketing increment ..............................43, 73 Number of shots per interval ......................91 Maximum aperture (non-CPU lens) ........95 PC connection indicator .............................108 17 Aperture stop indicator ..........................67, 69 22 Image comment indicator.........................118 23 Wide-frame focus area indicator...............56 24 Custom menu bank .......................................146 25 Shooting menu bank ....................................125 26 Bracketing indicator ..................................43, 73 27 Electronic analog exposure display ........69 Exposure compensation ................................72 Bracketing progress indicator .............43, 73 PC connection indicator .............................108 28 GPS connection indicator .............................96 29 Multiple exposure indicator .........................87 30 Interval timer indicator ...................................91 Introduction--Getting to Know the Camera 21 22 28 27 26 23 24 25 18 Flash compensation indicator ....................80 19 Exposure compensation indicator ..........72 20 ISO sensitivity indicator ..................................33 21 Flash value (FV) lock..........................................81 The LCD Illuminator Holding the power switch in the position activates the exposure meters and the control panel backlight (LCD illuminator), allowing the display to be read in the dark. After the power switch is released, the illuminator will remain active while the camera exposure meters are active or until the shutter is released. 5 The Viewfinder Display When the battery is totally exhausted, the display in the viewfinder will dim. The viewfinder display will return to normal when a fullycharged battery is inserted. Introduction--Getting to Know the Camera 1 6 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 1 Framing grid (displayed when On is selected for Custom Setting d2 (Grid Display) ................................................................158 2 8-mm (0.31-in.) reference circle for center-weighted metering ...................................61 3 "No memory card" warning *......................... 7 4 Battery indicator * ...............................................17 5 Black-and-white indicator * ..........................45 6 Normal-frame focus brackets (focus areas) ...................................................53, 55 7 Wide-frame focus brackets (focus areas) ...........................................................55 8 Focus indicator .....................................................20 9 Metering...................................................................61 10 Autoexposure (AE) lock ..................................70 11 Shutter speed ..............................................62­69 12 Aperture (f/-number) ..............................62­69 Aperture (number of stops) .................67, 69 13 Exposure mode....................................................62 * Can be hidden with Custom Setting d3 ( 14 Flash compensation indicator ....................80 15 Exposure compensation indicator ..........72 16 ISO sensitivity ........................................................33 17 Number of exposures remaining .............17 Number of shots remaining before memory buffer fills ............................27 Preset white balance recording indicator ...................................................................40 Exposure compensation value ..................72 Flash compensation value ............................80 PC connection indicator .............................108 18 Flash-ready indicator ........................................79 19 Flash value (FV) lock..........................................81 20 Flash sync indicator ...........................................79 21 Aperture stop indicator ..........................67, 69 22 Electronic analog exposure display ........69 Exposure compensation ................................72 23 Auto sensitivity indicator ............................153 24 "K" (appears when memory remains for over 1000 exposures) ......................................... 7 158). 6 Advanced Focusing Screen Display When the background is bright, the active focus area ( 53) is highlighted in black. When the background is dark, the active focus area is highlighted briefly in red as needed to establish contrast with the background ("Vari-Brite" focus areas), making it easier to identify the selected focus area. The viewfinder is also equipped with on-demand grid lines. When On is selected for Custom Setting d2 (Grid display; 158), a reference grid is superimposed over the display in the viewfinder. This grid is a useful aid when composing landscape shots or when tilting or shifting a PC Nikkor lens. Owing to the characteristics of this type of viewfinder display, you may notice fine lines radiating outwards from the selected focus area, or that the display in the viewfinder turns red when the selected focus area is highlighted. These phenomena are normal and do not indicate a malfunction. The Viewfinder Display The focus-area and grid-line displays in the viewfinder (advanced focusing screen display) tend to brighten at high temperatures and to darken and exhibit slower response times at low temperatures. The other displays in the viewfinder tend to darken at high temperatures and exhibit slower response times at low temperatures. All displays will return to normal at room temperature. Large-Capacity Memory Cards When enough memory remains on the memory card to record a thousand or more pictures at current settings, the number of exposures remaining will be shown in thousands, rounded down to the nearest hundred (e.g., if there is room for approximately 1,260 exposures, the exposure count display will show 1.2 K). Camera Off Display/No Memory Card If the camera is turned off with a battery and memory card inserted, the number of exposures remaining will be displayed in the control panel. If no memory card is inserted, the control panel will show and a icon will be displayed in the viewfinder. 7 Introduction--Getting to Know the Camera First Steps Attaching a Lens Care should be taken to prevent dust from entering the camera when the lens is removed. Introduction--First Steps 1 After confirming that the camera is off, remove the rear lens cap and camera body cap. 2 Keeping the mounting index on the lens aligned with the mounting index on the camera body, position the lens in the camera's bayonet mount. Being careful not to press the lens-release button, rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place. Mounting index Detaching Lenses Be sure the camera is off when removing or exchanging lenses. To remove the lens, press and hold the lens-release button while turning the lens clockwise. 8 Aperture Ring If the lens is equipped with an aperture ring, lock aperture at the minimum setting (highest f/-number). See the lens manual for details. Attaching the Camera Strap Attach the strap as shown below. Introduction--First Steps The Monitor Cover A clear plastic cover (the BM-6 LCD monitor cover) is provided with the camera to keep the monitor clean and protect it when the camera is not in use. To attach the cover, insert the projection on the top of the cover into the matching indentation above the camera monitor ( ), then press the bottom of the cover until it clicks into place ( ). To remove the cover, hold the camera firmly and pull the bottom of the cover gently outwards as shown at right. 9 Charging and Inserting the Battery The supplied EN-EL3e battery is not charged at shipment. Charge the battery using the supplied MH-18a quick charger as described below. 1 Charge the battery 1.1 Connect the power cord to the charger and plug it in. Introduction--First Steps 1.2 Place the battery in the charger. The CHARGE lamp will blink as the battery charges. About two and a quarter hours are required for an exhausted battery to fully charge. 1.3 Charging is complete when the CHARGE lamp stops blinking. Remove the battery from the charger and unplug the charger. The Battery and Charger Read and follow the warnings and cautions on pages ii­iii and 187­188 of this manual, together with any warnings and instructions provided by the battery manufacturer. Use only EN-EL3e batteries. The D200 is not compatible with the EN-EL3 or EN-EL3a batteries available for D100, D70-series, or D50 cameras or with the MS-D70 CR2 battery holder. Do not use the battery at ambient temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F) or above 40 °C (104 °F). During charging, the temperature should be in the vicinity of 5­35 °C (41­95 °F). For best performance, charge at temperatures of about 20 °C (68 °F) or higher. Note that the battery may become hot during use; wait for the battery to cool before charging. Failure to observe these precautions could damage the battery, impair its performance, or prevent it from charging normally. Battery capacity drops at low temperatures. This is reflected in the battery level display; at low temperatures, a freshly-charged battery may appear to be partially discharged. At temperatures below about 5 °C (41 °F), the charging life shown in the Battery info display may be temporarily reduced. The displays will return to normal at about 20 °C (68 °F) or higher. 10 2 Insert the battery 2.1 After confirming that the camera is off, open the battery chamber cover. Introduction--First Steps 2.2 Insert a fully charged battery as shown at right. Close the battery chamber cover. EN-EL3e Rechargeable Li-ion Batteries The EN-EL3e shares information with compatible devices, enabling the battery charge state to be shown in six levels in the control panel and as a percentage in the setup menu Battery Info display ( 123), together with battery life and the number of pictures taken since the battery was last charged. Use Only Nikon Brand Electronic Accessories Nikon cameras are designed to the highest standards and include complex electronic circuitry. Only Nikon brand electronic accessories (including lenses, Speedlights, battery chargers, batteries, and AC adapters) certified by Nikon specifically for use with this Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within the operational and safety requirements of this electronic circuitry. THE USE OF NON-NIKON ELECTRONIC ACCESSORIES COULD DAMAGE THE CAMNIKON WARRANTY. The use of third-party rechargeable Li-ion batteries not bearing the Nikon holographic seal (see right) could interfere with normal operation of the camera or result in the batteries overheating, igniting, rupturing, or leaking. ERA AND MAY VOID YOUR For more information about Nikon brand accessories, contact an authorized Nikon dealer. Removing the Battery Turn the camera off before removing the battery. Replace the terminal cover when the battery is not in use. 11 Basic Setup The language option in the setup menu is automatically highlighted the first time menus are displayed. Choose a language and set the time and date. 1 Turn camera on and press button. 2 Display language menu. Introduction--First Steps 3 Select language. 4 Return to setup menu. 5 Highlight World Time. 6 Display options. 7 Highlight Time Zone. 8 Display map of world time zones. 9 Select local time zone.* 10 Return to WORLD TIME menu. * UTC field shows time difference between selected time zone and Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), in hours. 12 11 Highlight Date. 12 Introduction--First Steps Display DATE menu. If daylight saving time is in effect in local time zone, highlight Daylight Saving Time and press multi selector right. Press multi selector down to highlight On and press multi selector right. Time will automatically be advanced one hour. 13 14 Return to WORLD TIME menu. Press multi selector left or right to select item, up or down to change. 15 Highlight Date Format. 16 Display options. 17 Choose order in which date is displayed. 18 Return to WORLD TIME menu. 19 Return to setup menu. Using Camera Menus The language option is only highlighted automatically the first time menus are displayed. See "Using Camera Menus" ( 24­25) for information on normal menu operation. 13 Inserting Memory Cards Photographs are stored on CompactFlash memory cards (available separately). 1 Insert a memory card 1.1 Turn the camera off before inserting or removing memory cards. Unlatch ( ) and open ( ) the memory card cover. 1 Introduction--First Steps 2 1.2 Insert the card as shown at right. The eject button will pop up and the memory card access lamp will light for about a second. Close the memory card slot cover. Inserting Memory Cards Confirm that the memory card is in the orientation shown. Attempting to insert cards upside down or backward could damage the camera or card. Do not use force. Front Direction of insertion Front Terminals 2 Format the memory card Formatting memory cards permanently deletes all photographs and other data they may contain. Be sure all data you wish to keep have been copied to another storage device before formatting the card. 2.1 2.2 Turn camera on and press ( and ) buttons simultaneously for about 2 seconds until blinks in control panel and viewfinder. Press buttons again.* Do not turn camera off or remove battery or memory card until formatting is complete and control panel shows number of exposures remaining. * Press any other button to exit without formatting memory card. 14 Removing Memory Cards 1 Confirm that the access lamp is off. Introduction--First Steps 2 Turn the camera off and open the memory card slot cover. 3 Press the eject button to partially eject the card ( ). The card can then be removed by hand ( ). Do not push on the memory card while pressing the eject button. Failure to observe this precaution could damage the camera or memory card. 2 1 Illustrations In illustrations throughout this manual, indicators in the control panel and viewfinder relevant to the explanation in the accompanying text are shown in black. Indicators not mentioned in the text are shown in gray. 15 Adjusting Viewfinder Focus Photographs are framed in the viewfinder. Before shooting, make sure that the display in the viewfinder is in clear focus. 1 2 Introduction--First Steps Remove the lens cap and turn the camera on. Rotate the diopter adjustment control until the focus brackets are displayed in sharp focus when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. When operating the diopter adjustment control with your eye to the viewfinder, be careful not to put your fingers or fingernails in your eye. Focus brackets Auto Meter-Off At default settings, the viewfinder display and the aperture and shutter-speed indicators in the control panel will turn off if no operations are performed for about six seconds (auto meter-off ), reducing the drain on the battery. Press the shutter-release button halfway to reactivate the display. 16 Tutorial: Photography and Playback Basic Photography This section describes how to take pictures at default settings. 1 Turn the camera on Tutorial--Basic Photography 1.1 Remove the lens cap and turn the camera on. The control panel will turn on and the display in the viewfinder will light. The monitor remains off during shooting. 1.2 Check the battery level in the viewfinder or control panel. Control Viewpanel finder Description -- Battery fully charged. -- Battery partially discharged. Low battery. Ready fully-charged spare battery. Shutter-release disabled. Change (blinks) (blinks) battery. Battery level is not displayed when camera is powered by optional AC adapter. 1.3 The exposure count displays in the control panel and viewfinder show the number of photographs that can be stored on the memory card. Check the number of exposures remaining. If there is not enough memory to store additional photographs at current settings, the display will flash as shown at right. No further pictures can be taken until the memory card has been replaced or pictures have been deleted. 17 2 Adjust camera settings This tutorial describes how to take photographs at the default settings listed in the table below, using a type G or D lens. See the "Reference" section for information on when and how to change settings from their default values. Control panel Exposure mode Image size Image quality Viewfinder ISO sensitivity Tutorial--Basic Photography White balance Focus area Description Balance between image quality and file size is 28­ ideal for snapshots. 31 Images are 3,872 × 2,592 pixels in size. 32 33­ 34 35­ 44 62­ 69 53 Option Image quality Image size ISO sensitivity White balance Default NORM (JPEG Normal) L (Large) 100 ISO sensitivity (digital equivalent of film speed) set to value roughly equivalent to ISO 100. A White balance automatically adjusted for natu(Auto) ral coloration under most types of lighting. Built-in exposure program automatically adjusts Exposure shutter speed and aperture for optimal expomode (Programmed auto) sure in most situations. Focus Center focus area Camera focuses on subject in center focus area. area 2.1 Press the mode-dial lock release ( ) while turning the mode dial ( ) to S (single frame). At this setting, the camera will take one photograph each time the shutter-release button is pressed. 2.2 Rotate the AF-area mode selector until it clicks into place pointing to (single-area AF). At this setting, the camera will focus on the subject in the focus area selected by the user. 1 2 18 2.3 Rotate the focus-mode selector until it clicks into place pointing to S (single-servo autofocus). At this setting, the camera will focus automatically when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Pictures can only be taken when the camera is in focus. 2.4 Rotate the metering selector to (matrix metering). Matrix metering uses information from all areas of the frame to determine exposure, producing optimal results for the entire frame. A icon appears in the viewfinder. Tutorial--Basic Photography 3 Frame a photograph 3.1 Hold the camera as shown. Holding the Camera Hold the handgrip in your right hand and cradle the camera body or lens with your left. Keep your elbows propped lightly against your torso for support and place one foot half a pace ahead of the other to keep your upper body stable. 3.2 Frame a photo in the viewfinder with the main subject positioned in the center focus area. Focus area 19 4 Focus Press the shutter-release button halfway to focus. If the camera is able to focus on the subject in the center focus area, a beep will sound and the in-focus indicator () will appear in the viewfinder (if the focus indicator blinks, the camera was unable to focus using autofocus). Focus will lock while the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. If the subject is dark, the AF-assist illuminator may light to assist the focus operation. Tutorial--Basic Photography 5 Check exposure In exposure mode P (programmed auto), the camera automatically sets shutter speed and aperture when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Before shooting, check the shutterspeed and aperture indicators in the viewfinder. If the photo would be under- or over-exposed at current settings, one of the following indicators will be displayed. Indicator Description Photo will be overexposed. Use optional Neutral Density (ND) filter. Photo will be underexposed. Use flash or raise ISO sensitivity. The Shutter-Release Button The camera has a two stage shutter-release button. The camera focuses when the button is pressed halfway; focus locks until the button is released. To take the picture, press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down. Lock focus Take photograph 20 6 Take the photograph Smoothly press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to release the shutter and record the photograph. The access lamp next to the card slot cover will light. Do not eject the memory card or remove or disconnect the power source until the lamp has gone out and recording is complete. 21 Tutorial--Basic Photography Basic Playback Press the button to view photographs. The most recent photo will be displayed in the monitor; additional pictures can be displayed by pressing the multi selector left or right. Tutorial--Basic Playback To end playback and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. Deleting Unwanted Photographs To delete the photograph currently displayed in the monitor, press the button. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. Press the button again to delete the image and return to playback. To exit without deleting the picture, press the button or press the shutter-release button halfway. 22 Reference This section builds on the Tutorial to cover more advanced shooting and playback options. Use the menus Take photographs in bursts Reduce shutter lag Adjust image quality and size Raise ISO sensitivity when lighting is poor Make colors look natural Take photos under unusual lighting Customize sharpening, contrast, color, saturation, and hue Choose a color space Shoot a moving subject or focus manually Let the camera choose shutter speed and aperture Freeze or blur motion Control depth of field Choose shutter speed and aperture manually Make photographs brighter or darker or enhance contrast Use the built-in flash Take photos with the self-timer Superimpose photos on one another Take photos at specified intervals Use a non-CPU lens Record GPS data with photographs View photographs Using Camera Menus: Choosing a Shooting Mode: Image Quality and Size: ISO Sensitivity: White Balance: Optimizing Images: Color Space: Focus: Exposure Mode P (Programmed Auto): Exposure Mode S (Shutter-Priority Auto): Exposure Mode A (Aperture-Priority Auto): Exposure Mode M (Manual): Exposure Compensation: Flash Photography: Self-Timer Mode: Image Overlay and Multiple Exposure: Interval-Timer Photography: Non-CPU Lenses: Using a GPS Unit: Viewing Photographs: 24 26 28 33 35 45 50 51 63 64 66 68 72 76 83 84 89 93 96 98 Reference 23 Using Camera Menus Most shooting, playback, and setup options can be accessed from the camera menus. To view the menus, press the button. Choose from playback, shooting, Custom Settings, and setup menus (see below) View recent settings If "?" icon is displayed, help for current item can be viewed by pressing button. Menu Playback Shooting Custom Settings Setup Recent Settings Slider is displayed if more options are available in current menu Current setting for each option is shown by icon Current menu item is highlighted Reference--Using Camera Menus Description Adjust playback settings and manage photos ( 133). Adjust shooting settings ( 124). Personalize camera settings ( 143). Format memory cards and perform basic camera setup ( 115). Lists the fourteen most recently used items in the shooting and Custom Settings menus. The multi selector is used to navigate through the camera menus. Move cursor up Increase number Return to previous menu Cancel (can also be performed with button) Move cursor down Decrease number Display sub-menu Make selection (selection can also be made with button or center of multi selector) Make selection (same as button) Help For help on menu options, press the button. A description of the currently selected option or menu will be displayed. To scroll the display, press the button while pressing the multi selector up or down. Locking and Deleting Recent Settings The Recent Settings option in the setup menu ( 119) can be used to delete all items from the Recent Settings menu or to lock the menu at current settings, creating a customized menu of shooting and Custom Menu options. 24 To modify menu settings: 1 Display menus 2 Highlight icon for current menu 3 Reference--Using Camera Menus Select menu 4 Position cursor in selected menu 5 Highlight menu item 6 Display options 7 Highlight option · Menu items that are displayed in gray are not currently available. · When formatting memory cards and in other cases in which user confirmation is required, a selection can only be made with the center of the multi selector or by pressing the button. A message to this effect will appear in the display. 8 Make selection Exiting the Menus Press the shutter-release button halfway to exit the menus and return to shooting mode, or press the button once to highlight the icon for the current menu and again to exit to shooting mode. 25 Reference: More on Photography Choosing a Shooting Mode Shooting mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time, in a continuous sequence, with a timed shutter-release delay, or with the mirror raised to enhance shutter response and minimize vibration. Description Camera takes one photograph each time shutter-release button is pressed. S Access lamp will light while photo is recorded; next shot can be taken imSingle frame mediately if enough space remains in memory buffer. While shutter-release button is held down, camera records 1­4 frames per CL Continuous second.* Frame rate can be chosen using Custom Setting d4 (Shooting low speed Speed; 158). CH While shutter-release button is held down, camera records up to 5 frames Continuous per second.* Use to photograph moving objects or to capture a fleeting high speed expression on portrait subjects. Use the self-timer for self-portraits or to reduce blurring caused by camera Self-timer shake ( 83). Press shutter-release button once to raise mirror, again to take photograph (shutter will be released automatically if shutter-release button is not pressed for 30 s after mirror up). Mirror will be lowered after shutter is reMUP leased. Choose this mode to minimize camera shake in situations in which Mirror up the least camera movement can result in blurred photographs. Note that autofocus, metering, and framing can not be confirmed in the viewfinder while mirror is raised. * Average frame rate with continuous-servo AF, manual or shutter-priority auto exposure, a shutter speed of / s or faster, and memory remaining in memory buffer. Mode Reference--Choosing a Shooting Mode To choose a shooting mode, press the mode dial lock release and turn the mode dial to the desired setting. 26 Buffer Size The number of images that can be stored in the memory buffer at current settings is shown in the exposure-count displays in the viewfinder and control panel while the shutter-release button is pressed (at image qualities of JPEG Fine, JPEG Normal, and JPEG Basic, the display will show 25 when the buffer contains space for 25 or more images). This number is updated as photographs are transferred to the memory card and more memory becomes available in the buffer. If 0 is displayed, the memory buffer is full and shooting will slow. Auto Image Rotation ( 119) In continuous mode, the orientation recorded for the first shot applies to all photographs in the same burst, even if camera orientation is changed during shooting. The Memory Buffer The camera is equipped with a memory buffer for temporary storage, allowing shooting to continue while photographs are being saved to the memory card. When the buffer is full, the shutter is disabled until enough data have been transferred to the memory card to make room for another photograph. In continuous mode, shooting will continue to a maximum of 100 shots as long as the shutter-release button is held down, although the frame rate will drop once the buffer has filled. While photographs are being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the memory card slot will light. Depending on the number of images in the buffer, recording may take from a few seconds to a few minutes. Do not remove the memory card or remove or disconnect the power source until the access lamp has gone out. If the camera is switched off while data remain in the buffer, the power will not turn off until all images in the buffer have been recorded. To turn the camera off without recording the images in the buffer, press the button while turning the camera off (keep the button pressed for at least one second after turning the camera off ). If the battery is exhausted while images remain in the buffer, the shutter release will be disabled and the images transferred to the memory card. The approximate time required to write the entire buffer to a 1 GB SanDisk SDCFX (Extreme III) card is as follows (ISO sensitivity set to ISO 100 equivalent): Uncompressed NEF (RAW) + JPEG Basic (Large) Uncompressed NEF (RAW) JPEG Fine (Large) 50 s (19 frames) 50 s (22 frames) 35 s (37 frames) Reference--Choosing a Shooting Mode The buffer size shown in the control panel and viewfinder is an approximation only. The file size of compressed images varies with the scene recorded, producing variations in the number of images that can be stored. See the Appendix ( 196) for more information. 27 Image Quality and Size Together, image quality and size determine how much space each photograph occupies on the memory card. Image Quality The camera supports the following image quality options (listed in descending order by image quality and file size): Mode NEF (RAW) JPEG Fine JPEG Normal JPEG Basic NEF (RAW) + JPEG Fine NEF (RAW) + JPEG Normal NEF (RAW) + JPEG Basic Reference--Image Quality and Size Description Raw 12-bit data from the image sensor are saved directly to the memory card in Nikon Electronic Format (NEF). Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of roughly 1 : 4.* Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of roughly 1 : 8.* Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of roughly 1 : 16.* Two images are recorded: one NEF (RAW) image and one fine-quality JPEG image. Two images are recorded: one NEF (RAW) image and one normal-quality JPEG image. Two images are recorded: one NEF (RAW) image and one basic-quality JPEG image. 30). * Size Priority selected for JPEG Compression ( Image quality can be set using the Image Quality option in the shooting menu or by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the main command dial. Two options are available for controlling compression: RAW Compression for NEF (RAW) images ( 31) and JPEG Compression for JPEG images ( 30). NEF (RAW) / NEF + JPEG NEF (RAW) images can only be viewed on a computer using the supplied software or Nikon 182). When photographs taken at Capture 4 Version 4.4 or later (available separately; NEF (RAW) + JPEG Fine, NEF (RAW) + JPEG Normal, or NEF (RAW) + JPEG Basic are viewed on the camera, only the JPEG image will be displayed. When photographs taken at these settings are deleted, both NEF and JPEG images will be deleted. White balance bracketing can not be used with NEF (RAW) images. Selecting an NEF (RAW) option for image quality cancels white balance bracketing. Image Quality, Image Size, and File Size See the Appendix for information on the number of pictures that can be stored on a memory card ( 196). 28 The Image Quality Menu 1 Highlight Image Quality in the shooting menu and press the multi selector to the right. 2 Highlight the desired option and press the multi selector to the right. The shooting menu will be displayed. Reference--Image Quality and Size The QUAL Button Press the QUAL button and rotate the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel (note that RAW Compression and JPEG Compression can only be adjusted from the shooting menu). RAW RAW BASIC FINE NORM RAW NORM RAW FINE BASIC File Names Photographs are stored as image files with names of the form "DSC_nnnn.xxx," where nnnn is a four-digit number between 0001 and 9999 assigned automatically in ascending order by the camera, and xxx is one of the following three letter extensions: "NEF" for NEF images, "JPG" for JPEG images, and "NDF" for Dust Off ref photos ( 121­122). The NEF and JPEG files recorded at a setting of "NEF+JPEG" have the same file names but different extensions. Images recorded at a Color Space setting of AdobeRGB ( 50) have names that begin with an underscore (e.g., "_DSC0001.JPG"). The "DSC" portion of the file name can be changed using the File Naming option in the shooting menu ( 129). 29 The JPEG Compression Menu The JPEG compression menu offers the following options for JPEG images: Mode Description Size Priority Images are compressed to produce relatively uniform file size. Quality (default) varies with scene recorded. Optimal Quality Optimal image quality. File size varies with scene recorded. The effects of these options are most pronounced with high ISO sensitivity ( complex scenes, basic-quality JPEG images, or heavy sharpening ( 46). 33), 1 Reference--Image Quality and Size Highlight JPEG Compression in the shooting menu and press the multi selector to the right. 2 Highlight the desired option and press the multi selector to the right. The shooting menu will be displayed. The selected option applies to all subsequent JPEG-quality images. 30 The RAW Compression Menu The following options are available for NEF (RAW) images: Mode NEF (RAW) (default) Comp. NEF (RAW) Description NEF images are not compressed. NEF images are compressed by about 40­50 % with little drop in quality. Recording time is reduced. 1 Highlight RAW Compression in the shooting menu and press the multi selector to the right. Reference--Image Quality and Size 2 Highlight the desired option and press the multi selector to the right. The shooting menu will be displayed. The selected option applies to all subsequent NEF (RAW) images. 31 Image Size Image size is measured in pixels. Smaller sizes produce smaller files, making them suited to distribution via e-mail or inclusion in web pages. Conversely, the larger the image, the larger the size at which it can be printed without becoming noticeably "grainy." Choose image size according to the space available on the memory card and the task at hand. Image size Large (3872 × 2592/10.0 M) Medium (2896 × 1944/5.6 M) Small (1936 × 1296/2.5 M) Reference--Image Quality and Size Size (pixels) Approximate size when printed at 200 dpi 3,872 × 2,592 49.2 × 32.9 cm (19.36 × 12.96 in.) 2,896 × 1,944 36.8 × 24.7 cm (14.48 × 9.72 in.) 1,936 × 1,296 24.6 × 16.5 cm (9.68 × 6.48 in.) Image size can be set using the Image Size option in the shooting menu or by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the sub-command dial. Note that the option selected does not affect the size of NEF (RAW) images. When viewed on a computer using the supplied software or Nikon Capture 4 Version 4.4 or later (available separately), NEF images are 3,872 × 2,592 pixels in size. The Image Size Menu Highlight Image Size in the shooting menu and press the multi selector to the right. 1 2 Highlight the desired option and press the multi selector to the right. The shooting menu will be displayed. The QUAL Button Press the QUAL button and rotate the sub-command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel. 32 ISO Sensitivity "ISO sensitivity" is the digital equivalent of film speed. The higher the ISO sensitivity, the less light needed to make an exposure, allowing higher shutter speeds or smaller apertures. ISO sensitivity can be set between values roughly equivalent to ISO 100 and ISO 1600 in steps equivalent to / EV. Where high sensitivity is a priority, ISO sensitivity can be further increased up to 1 EV over ISO 1600. ISO sensitivity can be adjusted using the ISO Sensitivity option in the shooting menu or by pressing the ISO button and rotating the main command dial. The ISO Sensitivity Menu Reference--ISO Sensitivity 1 Highlight ISO Sensitivity in the shooting menu and press the multi selector to the right. 2 Highlight the desired option and press the multi selector to the right. The shooting menu will be displayed. The ISO Button Press the ISO button and rotate the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel or viewfinder. * * * * Viewfinder display shows . 33 Noise The higher the ISO sensitivity, the more likely pictures are to be subject to "noise" in the form of randomly-spaced, brightly-colored pixels. Photos taken at ISO sensitivities over ISO 1600 will likely contain appreciable amounts of noise. High ISO NR ( 131) This option can be used to reduce noise at ISO sensitivities of 400 or more (this reduces the capacity of the memory buffer). Note that although high ISO noise reduction is always in effect at ISO sensitivities over ISO 800, turning High ISO NR on will increase the amount of noise reduction performed. b1--ISO Auto ( 152) When On is selected for Custom Setting b1 (ISO Auto), the camera will automatically vary ISO sensitivity from the value selected by the user to help ensure optimum exposure (maximum can be selected from ISO 200, 400, 800, and 1600). ISO sensitivity can not be raised above 1600 while ISO Auto is on, and On can not be selected for ISO Auto at ISO sensitivities over 1600. b2--ISO Step Value ( 154) Depending on the option selected for Custom Setting b2, ISO sensitivity can also be set in increments equivalent to / or 1 EV. ISO step value set to 1/2 step ISO step value set to 1 step Reference--ISO Sensitivity If possible, the current ISO sensitivity setting is maintained when the step value is changed. If the current sensitivity setting is not available at the new step value, ISO sensitivity will be rounded up to the nearest available setting. 34 White Balance The color of light reflected from an object varies with the color of the light source. The human brain is able to adapt to changes in the color of the light source, with the result that white objects appear white whether seen in the shade, direct sunlight, or under incandescent lighting. Unlike the film used in film cameras, digital cameras can mimic this adjustment by processing images according to the color of the light source. This is known as "white balance." For natural coloration, choose a white balance setting that matches the light source before shooting. The following options are available: Approximate color temperature* 3,500­ 8,000 K 3,000 K 4,200 K 5,200 K 5,400 K 6,000 K 8,000 K 2,500­ 10,000 K -- Reference--White Balance Option Auto Incandescent Fluorescent Dir. Sunlight Flash Cloudy Shade Choose Color Temp. White Balance Preset Description White balance adjusted automatically using color temperature measured by 1,005-pixel RGB sensor and image sensor. For best results, use type G or D lens. With builtin flash or optional SB-800 and SB-600 Speedlights, white balance reflects conditions in effect when flash fires. Use under incandescent lighting. Use under fluorescent lighting. Use with subjects lit by direct sunlight. Use with built-in flash or optional Nikon flash units. Use in daylight under overcast skies. Use in daylight with subjects in the shade. Choose color temperature from list of values ( 38). Use gray or white object or existing photograph as reference for white balance ( 39). * Fine-tuning set to 0. See the Appendix for other values. Auto white balance is recommended with most light sources. If the desired results can not be achieved with auto white balance, choose an option from the list above or use preset white balance. Studio Strobe Lighting Auto white balance may not produce the desired results with studio strobe lighting. Choose a color temperature, use preset white balance, or set white balance to Flash and use fine tuning to adjust white balance. 35 White balance can be set using the White Balance option in the shooting menu or by pressing the WB button and rotating the main command dial. The White Balance Menu 1 Highlight White Balance in the shooting menu and press the multi selector to the right. 2 Reference--White Balance Highlight the desired option and press the multi selector to the right. Selecting Choose Color Temp. displays a menu of color temperatures ( 38), White Balance Preset a preset white balance menu ( 39), other options a fine-tuning dialog ( 37). The WB Button Press the WB button and rotate the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel. 36 e5--Auto BKT Set ( 166) When WB Bracketing is selected for custom setting e5 (Auto BKT Set), the camera will create several images each time the shutter is released. White balance will be varied with each image, "bracketing" the value currently selected for white balance. Fine-Tuning White Balance At settings other than (Choose Color Temp.) and PRE (White Balance Preset), white balance can be "fine tuned" to compensate for variations in the color of the light source or to introduce a deliberate "warm" or "cold" cast into an image. Higher settings ("+") can be used to lend images a bluish tinge or to compensate for light sources with a yellow or red cast, while lowering white balance ("­") can make photographs appear slightly more yellow or red or compensate for light sources with a blue cast. Adjustments can be made in the range +3 to ­3 in increments of one. Except in Fluorescent mode, each increment is equivalent to about 10 mired. White balance is fine tuned using the White Balance option in the shooting menu or by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. At seticon appears in the control panel. tings other than ±0, a The White Balance Menu Selecting an option other than Choose Color Temp. or White Balance Preset in the white balance menu ( 35) displays the menu shown at right. Press the multi selector up or down to choose the desired value and press the multi selector to the right. The shooting menu will be displayed. The WB Button Press the WB button and rotate the sub-command dial until the desired value is displayed. Reference--White Balance Mired Any given change in color temperature produces a greater difference in color at low color temperatures than it would at higher color temperatures. For example, a change of 1000 K produces a much greater change in color at 3000 K than at 6000 K. Mired, calculated by multiplying the inverse of the color temperature by 10 6, is a measure of color temperature that takes such variation into account, and as such is the unit used in color-temperature compensation filters. E.g.: · 4000 K ­ 3000 K (a difference of 1000 K) = 83 mired · 7000 K ­ 6000 K (a difference of 1000 K) = 24 mired 37 Choosing a Color Temperature Choose a setting of (Choose Color Temp.) to select the color temperature from thirty-one predetermined values ranging from 2,500 K to 10,000 K in increments of roughly 10 mired (note that the desired results will not be obtained with flash or fluorescent lighting). Color temperature can be selected in the white-balance menu or with the WB button and sub-command dial. The White Balance Menu Selecting Choose Color Temp. in the white balance menu ( 35) displays the menu shown at right. Press the multi selector up or down to choose the desired value and press the multi selector to the right. The shooting menu will be displayed. The WB Button Press the WB button and rotate the sub-command dial until the desired value is displayed. ... Reference--White Balance Take Test Shots Take a test shot to determine if the selected value is appropriate to the light source. Color Temperature The perceived color of a light source varies with the viewer and other conditions. Color temperature is an objective measure of the color of a light source, defined with reference to the temperature to which an object would have to be heated to radiate light in the same wavelengths. While light sources with a color temperature in the neighborhood of 5,000­ 5,500 K appear white, light sources with a lower color temperature, such as incandescent light bulbs, appear slightly yellow or red. Light sources with a higher color temperature appear tinged with blue. 38 Preset White Balance Preset white balance is used to record and recall custom white balance settings for shooting under mixed lighting or to compensate for light sources with a strong color cast. Two methods are available for setting preset white balance: Method Direct measurement Copy from existing photograph Description Neutral gray or white object is placed under lighting that will be used in final photograph and white balance is measured by camera ( 40). White balance is copied from photo on memory card ( 42) or white balance value is copied from Nikon Capture 4 Version 4.4 or later (available separately; 182). Reference--White Balance The camera can store up to five values for preset white balance in presets d-0 through d-4. A descriptive comment can be added to any white balance preset ( 42). d-0 Stores last measured value ( 40). d-1 ­ d-4 Store values copied from d-0 ( 42). Store values copied from images on memory card ( 42). Store values created in Nikon Capture 4 Version 4.4 or later (available separately; 182). White Balance Presets Changes to white balance presets apply to all shooting menu banks ( 125). A confirmation dialog will be displayed if the user attempts to change a white balance preset created in another shooting menu bank (no warning is displayed for preset d-0). 39 Measuring a Value for White Balance White balance can be measured with reference to a neutral gray object. The new value for white balance is automatically stored in preset d-0. 1 2 Reference--White Balance Place a neutral gray or white object under the lighting that will be used in the final photograph. A standard gray card can be used as a reference in studio settings. Press the WB button and rotate the main command dial until is displayed in the control panel. If the new value for preset white balance will be used immediately, select preset d-0 by pressing the WB button and rotating the subcommand dial until d-0 is displayed. Otherwise there is no need to select d-0 when measuring a new value for white balance. Release the WB button briefly and then press the icon starts to flash. A blinkbutton until the ing will also appear in the control panel and viewfinder frame-count displays. 3 4 Frame the reference object so that it fills the viewfinder and press the shutter-release button all the way down. The camera will measure a value for white balance and use this value when preset white balance is selected. No photograph will be recorded; white balance can be measured accurately even when the camera is not in focus. To exit without measuring a new value for white balance, press the WB button. 40