Where to Find It Find what you're looking for from: The Table of Contents Find items by function or menu name. See pages v­vi The Q&A Index See pages vii­ix Know what you want to do but don't know the function name? Find it from the "question and answer" index. The Index Search by key word. See pages 123­125 Error Messages See pages 111­112 If a warning is displayed in the viewfinder or monitor, find the solution here. Troubleshooting See pages 108­110 Camera behaving unexpectedly? Find the solution here. Help Use the camera's on-board help feature for help on menu items and other topics. See page 3 for details. Digitutor Digitutor, a series of "watch and learn" manuals in movie form, is available from the following website: http://www.nikondigitutor.com/index_eng.html Introduction Tutorial Photography and Playback More on Photography (All Modes) P, S, A, and M Modes Reference More on Playback Connecting to a Computer, Printer, or TV Playback Options: The Playback Menu Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu Menu Guide Custom Settings Basic Camera Settings: The Setup Menu Creating Retouched Copies: The Retouch 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. To prevent possible injury, read all warnings before using this Nikon product. 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. Using the viewfinder diopter control When operating the viewfinder diopter control with your eye to the viewfinder, care should be taken not to put your finger in your eye accidentally. Turn off immediately in the event of malfunction Should you notice smoke or an unusual smell coming from the equipment or 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 disassemble Touching the product's internal parts could result in injury. In the event of 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. 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. Keep out of reach of children Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury. Do not place the strap around the neck of an infant or child Placing the camera strap around the neck of an infant or child could result in strangulation. 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: · Use only batteries approved for use in this equipment. · Do not short or disassemble the battery. · Be sure the product is off before replacing the battery. If you are using an AC adapter, be sure it is unplugged. · Do not attempt to insert the battery upside down or backwards. · 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 the battery 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, dry place. · The battery may be hot immediately after use or when the product has been used on battery power for an extended period. 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. Observe proper precautions when handling the quick charger · Keep dry. Failure to observe this precaution could result in fire or electric shock. · Dust on or near the metal parts of the plug should be removed with a dry cloth. Continued use could result in fire. · Do not handle the power cable or go near the charger during thunderstorms. Failure to observe this precaution could result in electric shock. · Do not damage, modify, or forcibly tug or bend the power cable. Do not place it under heavy objects or expose it to heat or flame. Should the insulation be damaged and the wires become exposed, take the power cable to a Nikon-authorized service representative for inspection. Failure to observe this precaution could result in fire or electric shock. · Do not handle the plug or charger with wet hands. Failure to observe this precaution could result in electric shock. ii For Your Safety 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. CD-ROMs CD-ROMs containing software or manuals should not be played back on audio CD equipment. Playing CDROMs 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 the subject's eyes could cause temporary visual impairment. Particular care should be observed when photographing infants, when the flash should be no less than one meter (39in.) from the subject. Avoid contact with liquid crystal Should the monitor break, care should be taken to avoid injury due to broken glass and to prevent the liquid crystal from the monitor touching the skin or entering the eyes or mouth. Notices · No part of the manuals included with this product may be · Nikon will not be held liable for any damages resulting reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval from the use of this product. system, or translated into any language in any form, by any · While every effort has been made to ensure that the informeans, without Nikon's prior written permission. mation in these manuals is accurate and complete, we · Nikon reserves the right to change the specifications of the would appreciate it were you to bring any errors or omishardware and software described in these manuals at any sions to the attention of the Nikon representative in your time and without prior notice. area (address provided separately). Notices for Customers in the U.S.A. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference Statement This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful inter- CAUTIONS ference to radio communications. However, there is no Modifications guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular The FCC requires the user be notified that any changes or installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interfer- modifications made to this device that are not expressly ence to radio or television reception, which can be deter- approved by Nikon Corporation may void the user's authormined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is ity to operate the equipment. encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or Interface Cables more of the following measures: Use the interface cables sold or provided by Nikon for your · Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. equipment. Using other interface cables may exceed the · Increase the separation between the equipment and limits of Class B Part 15 of the FCC rules. receiver. · Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different Notice for Customers in the State of California from that to which the receiver is connected. WARNING: Handling the cord on this product may expose · Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television tech- you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to nician for help. cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. D40x Nikon Inc., 1300 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, New York 11747-3064, U.S.A. Notices for Customers in Canada CAUTION This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Tel.: 631-547-4200 ATTENTION Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada. Notices iii 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 reproduced · Cautions on certain copies and reproductions Do not copy or reproduce paper money, coins, securities, The government has issued cautions on copies or reprogovernment bonds, or local government bonds, even if ductions of securities issued by private companies (shares, such copies or reproductions are stamped "Sample." bills, checks, gift certificates, etc.), commuter passes, or coupon tickets, except when a minimum of necessary The copying or reproduction of paper money, coins, or copies are to be provided for business use by a company. securities which are circulated in a foreign country is proAlso, do not copy or reproduce passports issued by the hibited. government, licenses issued by public agencies and priUnless the prior permission of the government has been vate groups, ID cards, and tickets, such as passes and meal obtained, the copying or reproduction or unused postage coupons. stamps or post cards issued by the government is prohib· Comply with copyright notices ited. The copying or reproduction of copyrighted creative The copying or reproduction of stamps issued by the gov- works such as books, music, paintings, woodcuts, prints, ernment and of certified documents stipulated by law is maps, drawings, movies, and photographs is governed by national and international copyright laws. Do not use this prohibited. 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 and for Info display format>Wallpaper. Care should be taken to avoid injury when physically destroying data storage devices. Trademark Information Macintosh, Mac OS, and QuickTime are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft corporation. The SD logo is a trademark of the SD Card Association. The SDHC logo is a trademark. Adobe, Acrobat, and Adobe Reader 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. iv Notices Table of Contents For Your Safety........................................................................ii Notices..................................................................................... iii Q&A Index ............................................................................ vii Introduction ......................................................1 Getting to Know the Camera ........................................... 2 First Steps ................................................................................ 8 Attaching a Lens................................................................................ 8 Charging and Inserting the Battery....................................... 9 Basic Setup..........................................................................................11 Inserting Memory Cards.............................................................12 Adjusting Viewfinder Focus......................................................14 Tutorial ............................................................15 "Point-and-Shoot" Photography ( Mode).............15 Creative Photography (Digital Vari-Programs).........18 Basic Playback......................................................................20 Reference .........................................................21 More on Photography (All Modes) ........................22 The Shooting Information Display ...............................22 Focus .......................................................................................23 Focus Mode........................................................................................23 AF-Area Mode ...................................................................................24 Focus Area Selection.....................................................................25 Focus Lock...........................................................................................26 Manual Focus ....................................................................................28 Image Quality and Size.....................................................29 Image Quality....................................................................................30 Image Size ...........................................................................................30 Shooting Mode ...................................................................32 Self-Timer and Remote Control Modes.............................33 Using the Built-in Flash.....................................................34 ISO Sensitivity ......................................................................37 Two-Button Reset...............................................................38 P, S, A, and M Modes...............................................39 Mode P (Programmed Auto) ..........................................40 Mode S (Shutter-Priority Auto) ......................................41 Mode A (Aperture-Priority Auto) ..................................42 Mode M (Manual) ...............................................................43 Exposure ................................................................................45 Metering...............................................................................................45 Autoexposure Lock........................................................................46 Exposure Compensation............................................................47 Flash Compensation .....................................................................48 White Balance ......................................................................49 More on Playback ..................................................50 Viewing Photographs on the Camera.........................50 Photo Information..........................................................................51 Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback ...........52 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom ................................53 Protecting Photographs from Deletion ............................54 Deleting Individual Photographs..........................................54 Connecting to a Computer, Printer, or TV .............55 Connecting to a Computer .............................................55 Before Connecting the Camera............................................. 55 Connecting the USB Cable....................................................... 55 Printing Photographs........................................................57 Printing Via Direct USB Connection.................................... 57 Viewing Photographs on TV...........................................62 Menu Guide..................................................... 63 Using Camera Menus ........................................................63 Playback Options: The Playback Menu.......................65 Delete.....................................................................................................65 Playback Folder................................................................................ 66 Rotate Tall............................................................................................ 66 Slide Show .......................................................................................... 67 Print Set (DPOF) ............................................................................... 67 Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu .....................68 Optimize Image (P, S, A, and M Modes) ............................ 68 Image Quality ................................................................................... 70 Image Size........................................................................................... 70 White Balance (P, S, A, and M Modes) ................................70 ISO Sensitivity.................................................................................... 73 Noise Reduction.............................................................................. 73 Custom Settings..................................................................74 R: Reset.................................................................................................. 74 1: Beep................................................................................................... 74 2: Focus Mode .................................................................................. 75 3: AF-Area Mode.............................................................................. 75 4: Shooting Mode........................................................................... 75 5: Metering (P, S, A, and M Modes Only)........................... 75 6: No Memory Card?..................................................................... 75 7: Image Review .............................................................................. 75 8: Flash Compensation (P, S, A, and M Modes Only)....... 76 9: AF-assist (All Modes Except and )......................... 76 10: ISO Auto (P, S, A, and M Modes Only)......................... 76 11: /Fn Button.............................................................................. 77 12: AE-L/AF-L ..................................................................................... 77 13: AE Lock.......................................................................................... 77 14: Built-in Flash (P, S, A, and M Modes Only) ................78 15: Auto off Timers......................................................................... 78 16: Self-Timer..................................................................................... 79 17: Remote on Duration............................................................. 79 Basic Camera Settings: The Setup Menu ...................80 CSM/Setup menu........................................................................... 80 Format Memory Card................................................................... 81 Info Display Format ....................................................................... 81 Auto Shooting Info........................................................................ 83 World Time ......................................................................................... 83 LCD Brightness................................................................................. 83 Video Mode........................................................................................ 83 Language............................................................................................. 84 Image Comment ............................................................................ 84 USB .......................................................................................................... 84 Table of Contents v Folders....................................................................................................85 File No. Sequence ...........................................................................86 Mirror Lock-Up..................................................................................86 Firmware Version.............................................................................86 Dust off Ref Photo...........................................................................87 Auto Image Rotation ....................................................................88 Creating Retouched Copies: The Retouch Menu.........89 D-Lighting ...........................................................................................90 Red-Eye Correction ........................................................................91 Trim..........................................................................................................91 Monochrome.....................................................................................92 Filter Effects.........................................................................................92 Small Picture.......................................................................................92 Image Overlay...................................................................................94 Technical Notes ............................................... 96 Optional Accessories.........................................................96 Lenses .................................................................................................... 97 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights) ...................................... 99 Other Accessories........................................................................ 102 Accessories for the D40x......................................................... 103 Caring for the Camera.................................................... 104 Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions ............ 106 Troubleshooting .............................................................. 108 Camera Error Messages and Displays ............................. 111 Appendix ............................................................................ 113 Specifications.................................................................... 119 Index ............................................................. 123 vi Table of Contents Q&A Index Find what you're looking for using this "question and answer" index. General Questions Question How do I use the menus? How do I get more information on a menu? What do these indicators mean? What does this warning mean? How many more shots can I take with this card? How much charge does the battery have left? What does "exposure" mean and how does it work? What do I do with the viewfinder eyepiece cap? What optional flash units (Speedlights) can I use? What lenses can I use? What accessories are available for my camera? What memory cards can I use? What software is available for my camera? Who can I ask to repair or inspect my camera? How do I clean the camera or lens? Key phrase Using the menus Help Page # 63­64 3 5­6, Monitor, viewfinder 81­82 Error messages and displays 111­112 Number of exposures remaining 29, 116 Battery level 15 Exposure 39 Self timer, remote control 7, 33 Optional flash units 99 Lenses 97 Accessories for the D40x 96 Approved memory cards 102 Accessories for the D40x 103 Servicing the camera x Cleaning the camera 104 Camera Setup Question How do I focus the viewfinder? How do I keep the monitor from turning off? How do I keep the shutter speed and aperture displays from turning off? How do I set the clock? How do I set the clock for daylight savings time? How do I change time zones when I travel? How do I adjust monitor brightness? How do I restore default settings? How do I turn off the light on the front of the camera? How do I change the self timer delay? How do I change the remote delay? How do I keep the camera from beeping? How do I view all the items in the menus? Can I display the menus in a different language? How do I keep the file number from being reset when I insert a new memory card? How can I prevent the same file name from being assigned to different photographs? Key phrase Viewfinder focus Stand-by mode Page # 14 78 World time LCD brightness Two-button reset AF-assist illuminator Self timer Remote control Beep CSM/setup menu Language File number sequence 11, 83 83 38 76 33 33 74 80 84 86 Q&A Index vii Taking Photographs Question Is there an easy way to take snapshots? Is there an easy way to take more creative shots? What do I do if flash photography is prohibited? How do I bring out a portrait subject? How can I get good landscape shots? How do I take snapshots of my kids? How do I "freeze" a moving subject? How do I take close ups of small objects? Can I include night backgrounds in my portraits? How do I change camera settings using the shooting information display? How do I take a lot of photographs quickly? Can I shoot a self-portrait? Is there a remote control for this camera? How do I adjust exposure? How do I freeze or blur moving objects? How do I blur background details? Can I make photos brighter or darker? How do I make a time exposure? How do I use the flash? Can the flash fire automatically when needed? How do I keep the flash from firing? How do I prevent red eye? Can I take pictures under low light without the flash? Can I control how the camera focuses? How do I focus on a moving subject? How do I choose where the camera focuses? Can I change the composition after focusing? How do I improve image quality? How do I take bigger photographs? How can I get more photos on the memory card? Can I take photos at a reduced size for e-mail? Key phrase Auto mode Digital Vari-Program modes Auto (flash off ) mode Portrait mode Landscape mode Child mode Sports mode Close-up mode Night portrait mode Shooting information display Shooting mode Exposure; P, S, A, and M modes Mode S (shutter-priority auto) Mode A (aperture-priority auto) Exposure compensation Long time-exposures Flash photography, flash mode Red-eye reduction ISO sensitivity Autofocus Focus mode Focus area Focus lock Image quality and size Page # 15 18 19 22 32 33 33 39 41 42 47 44 34 35 37 23 23 25 26 29­30 viii Q&A Index Viewing, Printing, and Retouching Photographs Question Can I view my photographs on the camera? Can I view more information about photos? Why parts of my photos blink? How do I get rid of an unwanted photo? Can I delete several photos at once? Can I zoom in on pictures to make sure they're in focus? Can I protect photos from accidental deletion? Is there an automatic playback ("slide show") option? Can I view my photos on TV? How do I copy photos to my computer? How do I print photographs? Can I print photos without a computer? Can I print the date on my photographs? How do I order professional prints? How do I bring out details in shadows? Can I get rid of red eye? Can I crop photographs on the camera? Can I create a monochrome copy of a photograph? Can I create a copy with different colors? Can I make a small copy of a photograph? Can I overlay two photos to make a single image? Key phrase Camera playback Photo info Photo info, highlights Deleting individual photos Delete Playback zoom Protect Slide show Television playback Connecting to a computer Printing photographs Printing via USB Time stamp, DPOF Print set D-lighting Red-eye correction Trim Monochrome Filter effects Small picture Image overlay Page # 50 51 52 54 65 53 54 67 62 55 57 57 59, 61 61 90 91 91 92 92 92 94 Q&A Index ix 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 frequentlyasked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital imaging and photography. Additional information may be available from the Nikon representative in your area. See the following URL for contact information: http://nikonimaging.com/ x Introduction Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon D40x 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. 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 finetuned from the Custom Settings menu. Lens Autofocus is supported with AF-S and AF-I lenses only. An 18­55 mm f/3.5­5.6GII ED AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor lens ( 122) is used in this manual for illustrative purposes. · » ¾ º ¶ ² ´ ¿ 1. Focal length scale 4. Rear cover: 8 7. Zoom ring 2. Focal length scale index 5. CPU contacts: 45 8. Focus ring: 28 3. Mounting index: 8 6. A-M mode switch: 8, 28 9. Lens cap Introduction 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. Camera Body µ º ¾ ¸ ¹ 1 Infrared receiver..............................................................33 2 Power switch .......................................................................4 3 Shutter-release button...............................................17 4 (exposure compensation) button................47 (aperture) button....................................................43 Flash compensation.....................................................48 5 (shooting information) button ......................22 (reset) button..............................................................38 6 AF-assist illuminator.....................................................23 Self-timer lamp................................................................33 Red-eye reduction lamp ...........................................35 7 (focal plane mark)...................................................28 8 Mode dial...............................................................................4 9 Built-in flash.......................................................................34 10 Accessory shoe cover................................................. 99 11 Accessory shoe (for optional flash unit).......... 99 12 (flash mode) button............................................. 34 (flash compensation) button ...................... 48 13 Eyelet for camera strap................................................. 7 14 Connector cover.............................................55, 58, 62 15 Video connector............................................................ 62 16 Reset switch ...................................................................108 17 USB connector.........................................................55, 58 18 (self-timer) button ................................................. 33 (function) button .................................................. 77 19 Lens release button ........................................................ 8 20 Lens mounting index .................................................... 8 2 Introduction: Getting to Know the Camera 6 7 8 9 10 11 µ ¸ ¹ 12 13 14 15 16 1 DK-16 viewfinder eyepiece cup...............................7 2 Viewfinder eyepiece ...............................................5, 14 17 3 Diopter adjustment control ....................................14 4 (AE-L/AF-L) button...........................................46, 77 18 (protect) button.......................................................54 19 5 Command dial..............................................................115 Eyelet for camera strap................................................. 7 Multi selector * Memory card slot cover............................................ 12 (delete) button..................................................20, 54 Memory card access lamp ...................................... 12 Power connector cover for optional AC adapter connector .....................................................103 Battery-chamber cover latch................................. 10 Battery-chamber cover ...................................10, 103 Tripod socket Monitor....................................................................6, 50, 82 (playback zoom) button..................................... 53 (setting) button ..................................................... 22 (reset) button ............................................................. 38 (thumbnail) button................................................ 52 (help) button (menu) button.......................................................... 63 (playback) button ............................................20, 50 * Multi selector The multi selector is used for menu navigation and playback. View more photo info Move cursor up Press up View previous photo Return to previous menu Cancel Press right Press left Press down View more photo info Move cursor down Help For help on the current mode or menu item, press the button. Help is displayed in the monitor while the button is pressed; to scroll the display, press the multi selector up or down. A blinking icon indicates that help on an error or other problem can be viewed in the monitor by pressing the button. View next photo Display sub-menu Retouch photo ( 89) Make selection Playback ( 51) Menus/shooting info ( 22, 63) Introduction: Getting to Know the Camera 3 The Mode Dial The D40x offers a choice of the following twelve shooting modes: Advanced Modes (Exposure Modes) Select these modes for full control over camera settings. P--Programmed auto: 40 S--Shutter-priority auto: 41 A--Aperture-priority auto: M--Manual: 43 42 Point-and-Shoot Modes (Digital Vari-Programs) Selecting a Digital Vari-Program automatically optimizes settings to suit the selected scene, making creative photography as simple as rotating the mode dial. --Auto: 15 --Auto (flash off): 18 --Portrait: 18 --Landscape: 18 -- Child: 19 --Sports: 19 -- Close up: 19 --Night portrait: 19 The Power Switch The power switch is used to turn the camera on and off. On Off 4 Introduction: Getting to Know the Camera The Viewfinder Display 1 2 3 45 6 7 89 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 1 Focus brackets (focus areas)....14, 16, 24, 25, 26 10 Number of exposures remaining.............. 15, 116 2 Focus indicator ....................................................... 16, 26 Number of shots remaining before memory buffer fills............................................. 32, 116 3 Focus area display..........................14, 16, 24, 25, 26 AF-area mode.................................................................. 24 Preset white balance recording indicator ......71 4 Autoexposure (AE) lock ............................................. 46 Exposure compensation value..............................47 5 Flexible program indicator ...................................... 40 Flash compensation value .......................................48 6 Shutter speed ..........................................................39­44 PC connection indicator ...........................................56 Dust off ref photo mode indicator......................87 7 Aperture (f/-number)..........................................39­44 11 Flash-ready indicator ...................................................17 8 Flash compensation indicator.............48, 78, 101 12 Battery indicator.............................................................15 9 Exposure compensation indicator ..................... 47 13 Electronic analog exposure display....................43 Exposure compensation ...........................................47 14 ISO AUTO indicator...............................................37, 76 15 "K" (appears when memory remains for over 1000 exposures) 16 Warning indicator..................................................3, 111 The Viewfinder The response time and brightness of the viewfinder may vary with temperature. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction. 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 1,160 exposures, the exposure count display will show 1.1K). Introduction: Getting to Know the Camera 5 The Shooting Information Display To view camera settings, press the button. The following shooting information will be displayed in the monitor. See page 22 for information on changing camera settings. 25 1 5 20 19 2 4 7 8 3 9 10 13 12 6 18 17 16 15 14 24 23 22 21 11 1 Focus area display ......................... 14, 16, 24, 25, 26 AF-area mode ..................................................................24 2 Shutter speed.......................................................... 39­44 3 Electronic analog exposure display ...................43 Exposure compensation ...........................................47 4 Aperture (f/-number) ......................................... 39­44 5 Mode ........................................................................................4 6 Shutter-speed display 7 Aperture display 8 Flash compensation value.......................................48 9 Flash sync mode.............................................................35 10 Exposure compensation value..............................47 11 Help indicator .....................................................................3 12 Number of exposures remaining.............. 15, 116 Preset white balance recording indicator ......71 PC mode indicator........................................................56 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Metering mode .............................................................. 45 AF-area mode.................................................................. 24 Focus mode...................................................................... 23 Shooting mode.............................................................. 32 ISO sensitivity................................................................... 37 White balance mode .................................................. 49 Image size.......................................................................... 30 Image quality................................................................... 30 Battery indicator ............................................................ 15 "Beep" indicator.............................................................. 74 Optimize image indicator........................................ 68 Auto ISO sensitivity indicator..........................37, 76 Manual flash control indicator.............................. 78 Flash compensation indicator for optional Speedlight...................................................101 Note: Above display is shown when Graphic is selected for Info display format. See page 81 for other display formats. The Shutter-Speed and Aperture Displays These displays provide a visual indication of shutter speed and aperture. Fast shutter speed, large aperture (small f/-number) Slow shutter speed, small aperture (large f/-number) 6 Introduction: Getting to Know the Camera Supplied Accessories The DK-5 Viewfinder Eyepiece Cap Attach the DK-5 viewfinder eyepiece cap for self-timer ( 33) or remote control photography ( 33). Before attaching the DK-5 or other viewfinder accessories ( 102), remove the DK-16 viewfinder eyepiece cup. Hold the camera firmly when removing the cup. The Camera Strap Attach the camera strap as shown below. The MH-23 Quick Charger ( 122) The MH-23 is for use with the supplied EN-EL9 battery. CHARGE lamp AC adapter plug AC inlet Wall plug (shape varies with country of sale) The EN-EL9 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery ( The EN-EL9 is for use with the D40x. 103, 121) Negative terminal Signal contact Positive terminal Terminal cover The use of third-party rechargeable Li-ion batteries not bearing the Nikon holographic seal shown above could interfere with normal operation of the camera or result in the batteries overheating, igniting, rupturing, or leaking. Introduction: Getting to Know the Camera 7 First Steps Attaching a Lens Autofocus is supported with AF-S and AF-I lenses only. Care should be taken to prevent dust from entering the camera when exchanging lenses. 1 Turn the camera off and remove the body cap. Remove the rear lens cap from the lens. 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 and rotate the lens in the direction shown until it clicks into place. If the lens is equipped with an A-M or M/A-M switch, select A (autofocus) or M/A (autofocus with manual priority). 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. After removing the lens, replace the camera body cap and rear lens cover. 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. 8 Introduction: First Steps Charging and Inserting the Battery The supplied EN-EL9 battery is not charged at shipment. Charge the battery using the supplied MH-23 battery charger as described below. 1 Charge the battery. 1.1 Remove the terminal cover from the battery. 1.2 Connect the power cord to the charger and plug it in. 1.3 Place the battery in the charger. The CHARGE lamp will blink as the battery charges. About 90 minutes are required for an exhausted battery to fully charge. 1.4 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 106­107 of this manual, together with any warnings and instructions provided by the battery manufacturer. 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 results, charge the battery at temperatures above 20°C (68°F). Battery capacity may drop if the battery is charged or used at lower temperatures. Introduction: First Steps 9 2 Insert the battery. 2.1 After confirming that the power switch is in the off position, open the battery chamber cover. 2.2 Insert a fully charged battery as shown at right. Close the battery chamber cover. Removing the Battery Turn the camera off before removing the battery. To avoid shorting the battery, replace the terminal cover when the battery is not in use. 10 Introduction: First Steps Basic Setup The first time the camera is turned on, the language selection dialog shown in Step 1 will be displayed in the monitor. Follow the steps below to choose a language and set the time and date. No photographs can be taken until the camera clock has been set. 1 Turn camera on. 2 Select language. 3 4 Display map of world time zones.* Select local time zone. * UTC field shows time difference between selected time zone and Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), in hours. 5 Display daylight saving time options. 6 Highlight On if daylight saving time is in effect. 7 Display date menu. 8 Press multi selector left or right to select item, up or down to change. To reset the camera clock, choose a new time zone, turn daylight saving time on or off, or choose the order in which the year, month, and date are displayed, use the World time option in the setup menu ( 83). Exit to shooting mode. 9 Using Camera Menus The language menu is only displayed automatically the first time the camera is turned on. See the Menu Guide ( 63) for information on normal menu operation. Introduction: First Steps 11 Inserting Memory Cards The camera stores pictures on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (available separately). See "Approved Memory Cards" for information on approved memory cards ( 102). 1 Insert a memory card. 1.1 Before inserting or removing memory cards, turn the camera off and open the card slot cover. 1.2 Slide the memory card in as shown at right until it clicks into place. The memory card access lamp will light for about a second. Close the memory card slot cover. Front Removing Memory Cards 1. Confirm that the access lamp is off. 2. Turn the camera off and open the memory card slot cover. 3. Press the card in to eject ( ). The card can then be removed by hand ( ). 12 Introduction: First Steps 2 Memory cards must be formatted in the camera before first use. Note that 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. Display menus.* * If menu item is highlighted, press multi selector left to highlight icon for current menu. 2.3 2.4 Highlight . Position cursor in setup menu. 2.5 2.6 Highlight Format memory card. Display options. 2.7 2.8 Highlight Yes. Format card. Do not turn camera off or remove card or battery until formatting is complete and setup menu is displayed. Formatting Memory Cards Use the camera Format memory card option to format memory cards. Performance may drop if cards are formatted in a computer. The Write Protect Switch SD cards are equipped with a write protect switch to prevent accidental loss of data. When this switch is in the "lock" position, the camera will display a message to warn that photos can not be recorded or deleted and the memory card can not be formatted. Write-protect switch Introduction: First Steps 13 Adjusting Viewfinder Focus Photographs are framed in the viewfinder. Before shooting, make sure that the display in the viewfinder is in clear focus. The viewfinder can be focused by removing the lens cap and sliding the diopter adjustment control up and down until the focus brackets are in sharp focus. 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 and shooting information display will turn off if no operations are performed for about eight seconds (auto meter off ), reducing the drain on the battery. Press the shutter-release button halfway to reactivate the display in the viewfinder ( 17). 8s Exposure meters on Exposure meters off Exposure meters on The length of time before the exposure meters turn off automatically can be adjusted using Custom Setting 15 (Auto off timers; 78). 14 Introduction: First Steps Tutorial Photography and Playback "Point-and-Shoot" Photography ( Mode) This section describes how to take photographs in (auto) mode, an automatic "pointand-shoot" mode in which the majority of settings are controlled by the camera in response to shooting conditions. 1 Turn the camera on. 1.1 Remove the lens cap and turn the camera on. The monitor will turn on and the viewfinder display will light. 1.2 If the monitor is off, press the button to display shooting information. Check the battery level as described below. Monitor Viewfinder Description -- Battery fully charged. -- Battery partially discharged. Low battery. Prepare to charge battery. Shutter release disabled. Charge battery. (blinks) (blinks) If shooting information is not displayed when the is exhausted. Charge the battery. button is pressed, the battery 1.3 The number of photographs that can be stored on the memory card is shown in the shooting information display and viewfinder. 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 photographs have been deleted ( 20, 65). 2 Rotate the mode dial to (auto mode). Tutorial: "Point-and-Shoot" Photography ( Mode) 15 3 Frame a photograph in the viewfinder. 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 you upper body stable. 3.2 Frame a photo in the viewfinder with the main subject positioned in any of the three focus areas. Using a Zoom Lens Use the zoom ring to zoom in on the subject so that it fills a larger area of the frame, or zoom out to increase the area visible in the final photograph (select longer focal lengths to zoom in, shorter focal lengths to zoom out). Focus area Zoom in Zoom out 4 Focus and shoot. 4.1 Press the shutter-release button halfway. The camera will automatically select the focus area containing the subject closest to the camera and focus on this subject. If the subject is dark, the AF-assist illuminator may light to assist the focus operation and the flash may pop up. The monitor will turn off. When the focus operation is complete, the selected focus area will be highlighted, a beep will sound, and the infocus indicator ( ) will appear in the viewfinder. The number of exposures that can be stored in the memory buffer ("r"; 32) is shown in the viewfinder display while the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. 16 Tutorial: "Point-and-Shoot" Photography ( Mode) 4.2 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 memory 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. 5 Turn the camera off when shooting is complete. The Shutter-Release Button The camera has a two-stage shutter-release button. The camera focuses and the monitor turns off when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. If the subject is stationary (or if single-servo autofocus is selected in P, S, A, or M mode; 23), a beep will sound and focus will lock. To take the photograph, press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down. Focus The Built-in Flash If additional lighting is required for correct exposure in mode, the built-in flash will pop up automatically when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway (to prevent the flash from firing when lighting is poor, select Auto (flash off ) mode). Flash range varies with aperture and ISO sensitivity ( 117); remove lens hoods when using the flash. If the flash is required, photographs can only be taken when the flash-ready indicator ( ) is displayed. If a photograph can not be taken and the flash-ready indicator is not displayed, remove your finger briefly from the shutterrelease button and try again. To save battery power when the flash is not in use, return it to its closed position by pressing it gently downward till the latch clicks into place. For more information on using the flash, see page 34. Take photograph Tutorial: "Point-and-Shoot" Photography ( Mode) 17 Creative Photography (Digital Vari-Programs) In addition to , the D40x offers a choice of seven Digital Vari-Program modes. Selecting a program automatically optimizes settings to suit the selected scene, making creative photography as easy as rotating the mode dial. Mode Auto (flash off) Portrait Landscape Child Sports Close up Night portrait Description For pictures that do not use the flash. For portraits. For natural and man-made landscapes. For pictures of children. For moving subjects. For close up shots of flowers, insects, and other small objects. For portraits taken under low light. To take photographs in Digital Vari-Program modes: 1 2 Rotate the mode dial to select a Digital Vari-Program mode. Frame a photograph in the viewfinder, focus, and shoot. Digital Vari-Program modes are described below. Auto (Flash Off) The built-in flash turns off. Use where flash photography is prohibited, to photograph infants without using the flash, or to capture natural lighting under low light. The camera selects the focus area containing the closest subject; the AF-assist illuminator will light to assist the focus operation when lighting is poor. Portrait Use for portraits with soft, natural-looking skin tones. The camera selects the focus area containing the closest subject. If the subject is far from the background or a telephoto lens is used, background details will be softened to lend the composition a sense of depth. Landscape Use for vivid landscape shots. The camera selects the focus area containing the closest subject; the built-in flash and AF-assist illuminator turn off automatically. 18 Tutorial: Creative Photography (Digital Vari-Programs) Child Use for snapshots of children. Clothing and background details are vividly rendered while skin tones are given a soft, natural finish. The camera selects the focus area containing the closest subject. Sports High shutter speeds freeze motion for dynamic sports shots in which the main subject stands out clearly. The camera focuses continuously while the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, tracking the subject in the center focus area. If the subject leaves the center focus area, the camera will continue to focus based on information from the other focus areas. The starting focus area can be selected with the multi selector. The built-in flash and AF-assist illuminator turn off automatically. Close Up Use for close-up shots of flowers, insects, and other small objects. The camera automatically focuses on the subject in the center focus area; other focus areas can be selected using the multi selector. Use of a tripod is recommended to prevent blur. Night Portrait Use for a natural balance between the main subject and the background in portraits taken under low light. The camera selects the focus area containing the closest subject. Use of a tripod is recommended to prevent blur. The Built-in Flash If additional lighting is required for correct exposure in , , , or mode, the built-in flash will pop automatically when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. See "Using the Built-in Flash" for information on choosing a flash mode ( 34). Tutorial: Creative Photography (Digital Vari-Programs) 19 Basic Playback Photographs are automatically displayed after shooting. The battery level and number of exposures remaining are also displayed. If no photograph is displayed in the monitor, the most recent picture can be viewed by pressing the button ( 50). Additional pictures can be displayed by rotating the command dial or pressing the multi selector left or right. To end playback and return to shooting mode, press the shutterrelease 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. 20 Tutorial: Basic Playback Reference This section builds on the Tutorial to cover more advanced shooting and playback options. More on Photography (All Modes): Use the shooting information display Shoot a moving subject or focus manually Adjust image quality and size Take photographs in one at a time, in bursts, or using the self-timer or a remote control Use the built-in flash Raise ISO sensitivity when lighting is poor Restore default settings 22 The Shooting Information Display: Focus: Image Quality and Size: Shooting Mode: Using the Built-in Flash: ISO Sensitivity: Two-Button Reset: 22 23 29 32 34 37 38 P, S, A, and M Modes: 39 Mode P (Programmed Auto): Mode S (Shutter-Priority Auto): Mode A (Aperture-Priority Auto): Mode M (Manual): Exposure: White Balance: 40 41 42 43 45 49 Let the camera choose shutter speed and aperture Freeze or blur motion Choose whether to blur background objects Choose shutter speed and aperture manually Choose how the camera meters exposure, lock exposure, adjust exposure and flash level Make colors look natural Take photos under unusual lighting See the Menu Guide for information on other operations that can only be performed in P, S, A, and M modes, including customizing sharpening, contrast, color saturation, and hue ("Optimize Image"; 68, 69). More on Playback: 50 Viewing Photographs on the Camera: 65­67). 50 View photographs on the camera See the Menu Guide for other playback options ( Connecting to a Computer, Printer, or TV: Copy photographs to a computer Print photographs View photographs on TV 55 Connecting to a Computer: Printing Photographs: Viewing Photographs on TV: 55 57 62 Reference 21 More on Photography (All Modes) The Shooting Information Display Pressing the button displays shooting information in the monitor. Shooting information can also be displayed by pressing in shooting mode, by pressing in P, S, or A mode, by pressing / (unless white balance is selected for Custom Setting 11 in Digital Vari-Program mode; 77), or by pressing when the flash is enabled. Shooting information is also displayed after the shutterrelease button is released when On is selected for Auto shooting info ( 83) and immediately after the camera is turned on. To hide shooting information, press the button again. The display format depends on the option selected for Info display format in the setup menu ( 81). The button can be used to change the settings shown in the shooting information display. 1 Display shooting information. 2 Selected setting is highlighted. Highlight desired setting. Settings not available in current mode are grayed out and can not be selected. 3 4 5 Highlight desired option. * Display options for highlighted setting. * Press to return to Step 3 without modifying setting. 6 Select option. Repeat Steps 3­6 to change other settings, or press to return to Step 1. 7 Take pictures. Monitor turns off while shutterrelease button is pressed. 22 Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/The Shooting Information Display Focus Focus can be adjusted automatically (see "Focus Mode," below) or manually ( 28). The user can also select the focus area for automatic or manual focus ( 24, 25) or use focus lock to focus to recompose photographs after focusing ( 26). Focus Mode Controls used Choose how the camera focuses. AF-S and AF-C are available only in P, S, A, and M modes. Description Camera automatically selects single-servo autofocus when subject is judged Auto-servo AF to be stationary, continuous-servo autofocus when subject is judged to be AF-A (default setting) moving. For stationary subjects. Focus locks when shutter-release button is pressed AF-S Single-servo AF halfway. For moving subjects. Camera focuses continuously while shutter-release butContinuouston is pressed halfway. Priority is given to shutter response, meaning that AF-C servo AF shutter may sometimes be released before in-focus indicator ( ) is displayed in viewfinder. MF Manual focus User focuses manually ( 28). Focus mode The AF-Assist Illuminator If the subject is poorly lit, the AF-assist illuminator will light automatically to assist the autofocus operation when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. The AF-assist illuminator will not light in continuousservo AF or manual focus mode, in , or modes, or if the center focus area is not selected or if Off has been selected for Custom Setting 9 (AF assist). The illuminator has a range of about 0.5­3.0m (1ft. 8in.­9ft. 10in.); when using the illuminator, use a lens with a focal length of 24­ 200mm and remove the lens hood. 2--Focus Mode ( 75) Focus mode can also be selected from the Custom Settings menu. Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Focus 23 AF-Area Mode Controls used Choose how the focus area is selected in autofocus mode. This setting has no effect in manual focus mode. Option Description Camera automatically selects focus area containing subject closest to camera. Default Closest for P, S, A, and M modes; selected automatically when mode dial is rotated to , , , subject , , or . User selects focus area manually, but if subject leaves selected focus area even briefly, Dynamic camera will focus based on information from other focus areas. Use with erratically movarea ing subjects. Selected automatically when mode dial is rotated to . User selects focus area using multi selector; camera focuses on subject in selected focus Single area only. Use with stationary subjects. Selected automatically when mode dial is area rotated to . Viewfinder Display AF-area mode is shown in the viewfinder as follows: Closest subject Dynamic area Single area 3--AF-Area Mode ( 75) AF-area mode can also be selected from the Custom Settings menu. 24 Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Focus Focus Area Selection Controls used Multi selector The D40x offers a choice of three focus areas. At default settings, the camera chooses the focus area automatically or focuses on subject in the center focus area, but the focus area can also be selected manually to compose photographs with the main subject positioned at either side of the frame. 1 2 At default settings, the focus area is selected automatically in , , , , , , P, S, A, and M modes. To enable manual focus selection in these modes, select Single area or Dynamic area for AF-area mode in the shooting information display ( 24). Press the multi selector left or right to highlight the focus area in the viewfinder or shooting information display. The selected focus area is highlighted again when the shutterrelease button is pressed halfway. Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Focus 25 Focus Lock Controls used Shutter-release button/AE-L/AF-L button Focus lock can be used to change the composition after focusing, making it possible to focus on a subject that will not be in a focus area in the final composition. It can also be used when the autofocus system is unable to focus ( 27). Single or dynamic area AF is recommended when using focus lock ( 24). 1 2 Focus lock can be used with any focus area. Position the subject in the selected focus area ( 25) and press the shutterrelease button halfway to initiate focus. Check that the in-focus indicator ( ) appears in the viewfinder. Focus will lock automatically when the in-focus indicator appears, and remain locked while the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Focus can also be locked by pressing the AE-L/AF-L button while the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Focus will remain locked while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed, even if you later remove your finger from the shutter-release button. Recompose the photograph and shoot. 3 The shutter-release button can not be used to lock focus in mode ( 19), continuous shooting mode ( 32), or continuous-servo autofocus ( 23), or when continuous-servo autofocus is selected in auto-servo AF ( 23). Use the AE-L/AF-L button to lock focus. At other settings, focus will remain locked between shots if the shutter-release button is kept pressed halfway. 12--AE-L/AF-L ( 77) This option controls the behavior of the AE-L/AF-L button. 26 Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Focus Getting Good Results with Autofocus Autofocus does not perform well under the conditions listed below. The shutter release may be disabled if the camera is unable to focus under these conditions, or the in-focus indicator ( ) may be displayed and the camera may sound a beep, allowing the shutter to be released even when the subject is not in focus. In these cases, use manual focus ( 28) or use focus lock ( 26) to focus on another subject at the same distance and then recompose the photograph. There is little or no contrast between the subject and the background (e.g., the subject is the same color as the background). The subject is dominated by regular geometric patterns (e.g., a row of windows in a skyscraper). The subject appears smaller than the focus area (e.g., focus area contains both foreground subject and distant buildings). The focus area contains objects at different distances from the camera (e.g., the subject is inside a cage). The focus area contains areas of sharply contrasting brightness (e.g., the subject is half in the shade). The subject contains many fine details (e.g., a field of flowers or other subjects that are small or lack variation in brightness). Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Focus 27 Manual Focus Controls used Use this option when the camera is unable to focus correctly using autofocus. To focus manually, select manual focus mode and adjust the lens focusing ring until the image displayed on the clear matte field in the viewfinder is in focus. Photographs can be taken at any time, even when the image is not in focus. When using a lens that offers A-M selection, select M when focusing manually. With lenses that support M/A (autofocus with manual priority), focus can be adjusted manually with the lens set to M or M/A. See the documentation provided with your lens for details. The Electronic Range Finder If the lens has a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, the viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm whether the portion of the subject in the selected focus area is in focus. After positioning the subject in the active focus area, press the shutter-release button halfway and rotate the lens focusing ring until the in-focus indicator ( ) is displayed. Note that if the subject is one for which autofocus does not perform well ( 27), the in-focus indicator may be displayed when the subject is not in focus. Confirm that the image in the viewfinder is in focus before shooting. Focal Plane Position To determine the distance between your subject and the camera, measure from the focal plane mark on the camera body. The distance between the lens mounting flange and the focal plane is 46.5mm (1.83in.). 28 Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Focus Image Quality and Size Together, image quality and size determine how much space each photograph occupies on the memory card. Larger, higher quality images can be printed at larger sizes but also require more memory, meaning that fewer such images can be stored on the memory card. Image Quality and Size Large file size JPEG Fine Changes to image quality and size are reflected in the number of exposures remaining as shown in the shooting information display and viewfinder ( 5, 6). The approximate maximum file size of individual photographs and the total number of pictures that can be recorded at the selected setting are also shown in the shooting information display while image quality or size options are displayed ( 30). Actual file size and memory card capacity may differ. Typical file sizes are listed on page 116. HighLow JPEG Normal JPEG Basic Small file size Small Medium SmallLarge Large Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Image Quality and Size 29 Image Quality Controls used The camera supports the following image quality options (the first four are listed in descending order by image quality and file size): Option RAW FINE NORM (default) BASIC JPEG Format NEF Description Compressed raw data from the image sensor are saved directly to memory card. Choose for images that will be retouched on a computer. Images are compressed less than NORM, producing higher-quality images. Compression ratio: roughly 1:4. Best choice in most situations. Compression ratio: roughly 1:8. Smaller file size suited to e-mail or the Web. Compression ratio: roughly 1:16. Two images are recorded: one NEF (RAW) image and one basic-quality JPEG RAW+B NEF+JPEG image. Image Size Controls used Image size is measured in pixels. The following options are available: Image size L (default) M S Size (pixels) 3,872×2,592 2,896×1,944 1,936×1,296 Approximate size when printed at 200 dpi 49.2×32.9cm (19.4×13.0in.) 36.8×24.7cm (14.5×9.7in.) 24.6×16.5cm (9.7×6.5in.) Note that the option selected for image size does not affect the size of NEF (RAW) images. When viewed on a computer, NEF images are 3,872×2,592 pixels in size. 30 Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Image Quality and Size NEF (RAW)/RAW+B NEF (RAW) files can be viewed on a computer using Capture NX (available separately; 103) or the supplied PictureProject software. NEF (RAW) photographs can not be printed by most print services or by direct USB connection; use PictureProject or Capture NX to print NEF (RAW) photographs. When photographs taken at RAW+B are viewed on the camera, only the JPEG image will be displayed. When photographs taken at this setting are deleted, both NEF and JPEG images will be deleted. Capture NX ( 103) Capture NX (available separately) automatically checks for updates if an Internet connection is detected at startup. Be sure to update to the latest version before viewing NEF (RAW) files. File Names Photographs are stored as image files with names of the form "DSC_nnnn.xxx," where nnnn is a fourdigit 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 (RAW) images or "JPG" for JPEG images. Files containing Image Dust Off reference data have the extension ".NDF" ( 87). The NEF and JPEG files recorded at a setting of RAW+B have the same file names but different extensions. Small copies created with the small picture option in the retouch menu have file names beginning with "SSC_" and ending with the extension ".JPG" (e.g., "SSC_0001.JPG"), while images recorded with the other options in the retouch menu have file names beginning with "CSC" (e.g., "CSC_0001.JPG"). Images recorded at a Optimize Image > Custom > Color Mode setting of II (AdobeRGB) ( 69) have names that begin with an underscore (e.g., "_DSC0001.JPG"). Image Quality ( 30)/Image Size ( 30) Image quality and size can also be set using the Image quality and Image size options in the shooting menu. 11-- /Fn Button ( 77) Image quality and size can also be set using the command dial. Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Image Quality and Size 31 Shooting Mode Controls used Shooting mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time, in a continuous sequence, with a timed shutter-release delay, or with a remote control. Mode Single frame (default) Description Camera takes one photograph each time shutter-release button is pressed. Camera records photographs at up to about three frames per second while shutter-release button is pressed. Only one shot will be taken if flash fires; Continuous select Auto (flash off ) mode ( 18) or turn flash off ( 35) for burst pho(burst mode) tography. The fastest frame rates can be achieved by choosing manual focus ( 28), rotating the mode dial to S or M and selecting a shutter speed of 1/250s or faster ( 41, 43), and using defaults for all other settings. 10s Self-timer Use for self-portraits or to reduce blurring caused by camera shake ( 33). 2s Delayed remote Optional ML-L3 remote control required. Use for self-portraits ( 33). Quick-response Optional ML-L3 remote control required. Use to reduce blurring caused by remote camera shake ( 33). 11-- /Fn Button ( 77) If Self-timer (the default option) is selected for Custom Setting 11 ( /Fn button), self-timer mode can also be selected by pressing the self-timer button. 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, although the frame rate will drop once the buffer has filled. See the Appendix for information on the number of photographs that can be stored in the memory buffer. The approximate number of images that can be stored in the memory buffer at current settings is shown in the exposure-count display in the viewfinder while the shutter-release button is pressed. 32 Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Shooting Mode Self-Timer and Remote Control Modes The self-timer or optional ML-L3 remote control can be used for self-portraits. 1 2 Mount the camera on a tripod or place the camera on a stable, level surface. Select one of the following shooting modes: Mode 10s Self-timer 2s Delayed remote Quick-response remote Description Shutter released about 10s after camera has focused. Shutter released about 2s after camera has focused. Shutter released when camera focuses. 3 4 5 Frame the photograph. If the remote control is used with the camera in autofocus mode, you can check focus by pressing the shutter-release button halfway. Remove the viewfinder eyepiece cup and insert the supplied DK-5 eyepiece cap as shown. This prevents light entering via the viewfinder interfering with exposure. Take the photograph. Self-timer: Press the camera shutter-release button halfway to focus, then press it the rest of the way down to start the selftimer. The self-timer lamp will start to blink, stopping two seconds before the photograph is taken. Remote control: From a distance of 5m (16ft.) or less, aim the transmitter on the ML-L3 at the infrared receiver on the camera and press the shutter-release button on the ML-L3. In delayed remote mode, the self-timer lamp will light for about two seconds before the shutter is released. In quick-response remote mode, the self-timer lamp will flash after the shutter has been released. Self-timer mode ends when a photograph is taken or the camera is turned off. Single-frame or continuous shooting mode is automatically restored when self-timer mode ends. Reference: More on Photography (All Modes)/Shooting Mode 33 Using the Built-in Flash Controls used The camera supports a variety of flash modes for photographing poorly lit or backlit subjects. The flash modes available depend on the mode selected with the mode dial; note that the built-in flash can not be used in , , or mode. The default flash setting for Digital Vari-Program modes is automatically restored when the mode dial is rotated to a new setting or the camera is turned off. Using the Built-in Flash: , , , , , , and , , or Modes . 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5