DIGITAL CAMERA User's Manual En
Where to Find It Find what you’re looking for from: i The Q&A Index ➜ pp. iv–ix Know what you want to do but don’t know the function name? Find it from the “question and answer” index. i The Table of Contents ➜ pp. x–xvii ➜ pp. 23–24 Find items by function or menu name. i The Quick Start Guide A brief guide for those who want to get started taking pictures right away. i The Index ➜ pp. 442–448 ➜ pp. 414–420 Search by key word.
Package Contents Be sure all items listed here were included with your camera. Memory cards are sold separately. ❏ D3X digital camera (pg. 3) ❏ Body cap (pp. 4, 391) ❏ BS-2 accessory shoe cover (pg. 3) ❏ EN-EL4a rechargeable Li-ion battery with terminal cover (pp. 32, 34) ❏ MH-22 quick charger with power cable and two contact protectors (pp. 32, 437) ❏ UC-E4 USB cable (pp. 256, 264) ❏ USB cable clip (pg. 259) ❏ EG-D2 audio/video cable (pg. 274) ❏ AN-D3X strap (pg.
Symbols and Conventions To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions are used: D This icon marks cautions; information that should be read before use to prevent damage to the camera. A This icon marks notes; information that should be read before using the camera. Menu items, options, and messages displayed in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]). A Trademark Information Macintosh, Mac OS, and QuickTime are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.
X Introduction s Tutorial d Image Recording Options N Focus k Release Mode S ISO Sensitivity Z Exposure r White Balance J Image Enhancement l Flash Photography t Other Shooting Options I More About Playback e Voice Memos Q Connections U Menu Guide n Technical Notes iii
Q&A Index Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index.
Question 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 for menus or playback? How do I restore default settings? How do I restore shooting menu defaults? How do I restore Custom Setting defaults? How do I change the self-timer delay? Can I reverse the electronic analog exposure display? Can I display the menus in a different language? Can I save menu settings for use on a different D3X camera? Key phras
Question Key phrase How do I keep the file number from being reset when I insert a new memory File number sequence card? How do I reset file numbering to 1? How do I clean the camera or lens? Cleaning the camera See page 322 395 ❚❚ Taking Photographs Question How many more shots can I take with this card? How do I take bigger photographs? How can I get more photos on the memory card? Can I control how the camera focuses? How do I take a lot of photographs quickly? Can I change the frame advance rate? Can
Question Can I set both shutter speed and aperture manually? Can I make photos brighter or darker? How do I make a time exposure? Can I vary exposure or flash level automatically over a series of photos? Can I create multiple copies of a photo using different white balance settings? How do I adjust white balance? How do I change settings for the optional flash unit? How can I record multiple shots as a single photograph? Can I record voice memo when taking a photograph? Can I pick the standard exposure leve
Question 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? Can I hide selected photos? How do I tell if parts of my photos may be overexposed? Key phrase Deleting individual photos Delete See page 245 281 Playback zoom 243 Protect 244 Hide image Display mode: highlights Display mode: focus How do I tell where the camera focused? point Can I view photos as they are taken? I
❚❚ Viewing or Printing Photographs on Other Devices Question Key phrase Can I view my photos on TV? Television playback Can I view my photos in High Definition? HDMI Connecting to a How do I copy photos to my computer? computer How do I print photographs? Printing photographs Can I print photos without a computer? Printing via USB Can I print the date on my photographs? Time stamp How do I order professional prints? Print set (DPOF) See page 274 276 256 262 263 266, 270 272 ❚❚ Optional Accessories Questio
Table of Contents Q&A Index ................................................................................................iv For Your Safety .................................................................................. xviii Notices.....................................................................................................xxi Introduction 1 Overview....................................................................................................2 Getting to Know the Camera..............
Focus and Shoot.............................................................................. 55 Viewing Photographs.................................................................... 57 Deleting Unwanted Photographs............................................. 58 Image Recording Options 59 Image Area............................................................................................. 60 Image Quality........................................................................................
Exposure 109 Metering ...............................................................................................110 Exposure Mode...................................................................................112 e: Programmed Auto .................................................................. 114 f: Shutter-Priority Auto .............................................................. 116 g: Aperture-Priority Auto ........................................................... 118 h: Manual........
FV Lock ..................................................................................................198 Flash Contacts.....................................................................................201 Other Shooting Options 203 Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings .......................204 Multiple Exposure .............................................................................206 Interval Timer Photography ..........................................................
Menu Guide 277 D The Playback Menu: Managing Images...............................278 Delete........................................................................................... 281 Playback Folder......................................................................... 281 Hide Image ................................................................................. 281 Display Mode............................................................................. 282 Copy Image(s) ........................
A: Reset Custom Settings .....................................................304 a: Autofocus ....................................................................................305 a1: AF-C Priority Selection .....................................................305 a2: AF-S Priority Selection .....................................................306 a3: Dynamic AF Area ...............................................................307 a4: Focus Tracking with Lock-On........................................
e6: Bracketing Order ............................................................... 330 f: Controls ........................................................................................ 331 f1: Multi Selector Center Button ......................................... 331 f2: Multi Selector....................................................................... 332 f3: Photo Info/Playback.......................................................... 332 f4: Assign FUNC. Button....................................
N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies .............363 D-Lighting ...................................................................................366 Red-Eye Correction ..................................................................367 Trim................................................................................................368 Monochrome .............................................................................369 Filter Effects ...................................................
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: icon marks warnings. To prevent possible injury, read all A This warnings before using this Nikon product.
A 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. A Keep out of reach of children Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury. A 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.
A Observe proper precautions when • • • • • • xx 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.
Notices • No part of the manuals included with this • Nikon will not be held liable for any product may be reproduced, transmitted, damages resulting from the use of this transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, product. or translated into any language in any • While every effort has been made to form, by any means, without Nikon’s prior ensure that the information in these written permission.
Notices for Customers in the U.S.A. The Battery Charger IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS—SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS DANGER—TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, CAREFULLY FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS For connection to a supply not in the U.S.A., use an attachment plug adapter of the proper configuration for the power outlet if needed. This power unit is intended to be correctly oriented in a vertical or floor mount position.
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.
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 battery chargers, batteries, AC adapters, and flash accessories) 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.
XIntroduction X This chapter covers information you will need to know before using the camera, including the names of camera parts. Overview.............................................................................. pg. 2 Getting to Know the Camera ........................................... pg. 3 Camera Body ....................................................................................... pg. 3 The Top Control Panel...................................................................... pg.
Overview X Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. Please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly to get the most from the camera, and keep them where they will be read by all those who use the product. D Use Only Nikon Brand Accessories Only Nikon brand accessories certified by Nikon specifically for use with your Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within its operational and safety requirements.
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. X Camera Body 1 D (bracketing) button ....................... 131, 135, 328 2 Release mode dial lock release....................................87 3 Release mode dial.......................87 4 Eyelet for camera strap ............... 5 5 M (flash mode) button ............
Camera Body (Continued) X 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 4 Mirror............................90, 102, 400 Self-timer lamp ......................... 101 Flash sync terminal cover...... 201 Ten-pin remote terminal cover ....................................221, 392 Flash sync terminal.................. 201 Ten-pin remote terminal ..............................221, 392 USB connector cover .....258, 264 Lens release button....................38 Connector cover..............274, 276 10 USB connector.................
X 1 Depth-of-field preview 6 button .................................113, 339 2 Sub-command dial.....................16 7 3 Fn button .....................64, 199, 333 8 4 Sub-command dial for 9 vertical shooting .........................16 10 5 Shutter-release button for vertical shooting .........................54 Vertical shooting shutterrelease button lock .................... 54 CPU contacts Mounting index .......................... 37 Lens mount...................................
Camera Body (Continued) X 1 Viewfinder eyepiece...................47 2 Eyepiece shutter lever...............47 3 O (delete) button............... 58, 245 Q (format) button.....................45 4 K (playback) button ....... 57, 226 5 Monitor.......................... 57, 90, 226 6 G (menu) button.......... 26, 277 7 N (thumbnail/playback zoom) button ...................242, 243 8 L (protect) button ............... 244 ? (help) button..............................31 R (info) button.........................
X 1 Viewfinder .....................................47 2 A (AE/AF lock) button .......................................... 80, 81, 340 3 B (AF-ON) button ..........75, 94 4 Main command dial ...................16 5 Multi selector................................28 6 Focus selector lock .....................78 7 Memory card access lamp....43, 56 8 Memory card slot cover ..... 42, 44 9 Card slot cover release button (under cover)................................ 42 10 B (AF-ON) button for vertical shooting....
The Top Control Panel X 1 2 3 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 13 14 15 1 Shutter speed ...................116, 120 9 Memory card indicator Exposure compensation (slot 2) ...................................... 42, 45 value ............................................. 128 10 Number of exposures Number of shots in remaining ...................................... 49 exposure and flash bracketing Number of shots remaining sequence..................................... 131 before memory buffer fills ......
21 22 16 17 23 24 25 26 18 19 SHOOT CUSTOM 20 13 Battery indicator..........................48 14 Frame count..................................49 Preset white balance recording indicator.................. 151 Manual lens number............... 220 15 “K” (appears when memory remains for over 1000 exposures) .....................................49 16 FV lock indicator....................... 199 17 Flash sync indicator................. 326 18 Clock battery indicator ...
The Rear Control Panel 1 2 3 X 8 9 4 10 11 5 12 6 7 A LCD Illuminators Rotating the power switch toward D activates the exposure meters and the control panel backlights (LCD illuminators), allowing the displays to be read in the dark. After the power switch is released, the illuminators will remain lit for six seconds (at default settings) while the exposure meters are active or until the shutter is released or the power switch is rotated toward D again.
1 2 3 4 Image quality (JPEG images) ..67 6 “K” (appears when memory remains for over 1000 “Remaining” indicator ...............49 exposures)..................................... 49 Image size......................................71 Color temperature ISO sensitivity indicator ......... 104 indicator.......................................147 Auto ISO sensitivity 7 Memory card slot indicators... 72 indicator ...................................... 106 Image quality ...............................
The Viewfinder Display 3 2 1 X 21 22 23 4 5 6 17 7 8 18 9 10 11 19 12 13 14 15 16 20 1 12-mm reference circle for 7 Exposure mode .........................112 center-weighted metering ... 110 8 Shutter speed lock icon..........123 2 AF area brackets ...................47, 92 9 Shutter-speed .................. 116, 120 3 Focus points........................ 78, 311 10 Aperture lock icon....................124 Spot metering targets ............ 110 11 Aperture (f-number)......
12 ISO sensitivity indicator ......... 104 Auto ISO sensitivity indicator ...................................... 106 13 ISO sensitivity ............................ 104 14 Frame count..................................49 Number of exposures remaining ......................................49 Number of shots remaining before memory buffer fills.......88 Preset white balance recording indicator.................. 151 Exposure compensation value ............................................. 128 PC mode indicator.
The Shooting Information Display X Shooting information, including shutter R speed, aperture, the number of exposures button remaining, and AF-area mode is displayed in the monitor when the R button is pressed. To clear shooting information from the monitor, press the R button again or press the shutter-release button halfway. At default settings, the monitor will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for about 20 seconds.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Exposure mode......................... 112 Flexible program indicator ... 115 Shutter-speed lock icon......... 123 Shutter speed ...................116, 120 Exposure compensation value ............................................. 128 Number of shots in exposure and flash bracketing sequence ........................................................ 131 Number of shots in WB bracketing sequence .............. 135 Focal length (non-CPU lenses)......................
The Command Dials The main- and sub-command dials are used alone or in combination with other controls to adjust a variety of settings.
❚❚ Image Quality and Size Press the Fn or QUAL button and rotate the command dials. Choose an image area (pg. 64)* X + Fn button Main command dial Shooting information display * The DX format image area is automatically selected when a DX lens is attached. Set image quality (pg. 67) + QUAL button Main command dial Rear control panel Choose an image size (pg. 71) + QUAL button Sub-command dial Rear control panel ❚❚ ISO Sensitivity Press the ISO button and rotate the main command dial.
❚❚ Exposure Press the I button and rotate the main command dial to choose the exposure mode. X Choose the exposure mode (pg. 113) + I button Main command dial Top control panel Use the command dials to adjust exposure. Choose a combination of aperture and shutter speed (exposure mode e; pg. 115) + SHOOT CUSTOM SHOOT CUSTOM Exposure mode e Choose a shutter speed (exposure mode f or h; pg.
Set exposure compensation (pg. 128) + X E button Shutter speed lock (exposure mode f or h; pg. 123) Main command dial Top control panel + SHOOT CUSTOM F button Aperture lock (exposure mode g or h; pg.
X Activate or cancel bracketing/ select number of shots in bracketing sequence (pp. 131, 134) + D button Select bracketing exposure increment (pg. 132) Main command dial Top control panel + D button Sub-command dial Top control panel ❚❚ White Balance Press the WB button and rotate the command dials. Choose a white balance setting (pg. 141) + WB button Fine-tune white balance (pg. 146), set color temperature (pg. 147), or choose a white balance preset (pg.
❚❚ Flash Settings Press the M button and rotate the main command dial. Choose flash mode (pg. 196) X + M button Main command dial Top control panel A The Fn Button Depending on the option selected for Custom Setting f4 ([Assign FUNC. button], pg.
The BS-2 Accessory Shoe Cover X The supplied BS-2 accessory shoe cover can be used to protect the accessory shoe or to prevent light reflected from the metal parts of the shoe from appearing in photographs. The BS-2 attaches to the camera accessory shoe as shown at right. To remove the accessory shoe cover, hold it down with your thumb and slide it off as shown at right while keeping a firm grip on the camera.
Quick Start Guide Follow these steps for a quick start with the D3X. X 1 Charge the battery (pg. 32). 2 Insert the battery (pg. 34). 3 Attach a lens (pg. 37). Mounting index 4 Insert a memory card (pg. 42). Back 5 Turn the camera on (pg. 48). For information on choosing a language and setting the time and date, see page 39. See page 47 for information on adjusting viewfinder focus.
6 Check camera settings (pp. 48, 51). X Battery level Exposure mode Image size White balance SHOOT CUSTOM Number of exposures remaining ISO sensitivity Frame count Top control panel Image quality Rear control panel 7 Select single-servo autofocus (pg. 53, 74). Rotate the focus-mode selector to S (single-servo autofocus). 8 Focus and shoot (pp. 55, 56). Press the shutter-release button halfway to focus, then press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to take the photograph.
sTutorial s This section describes how to use the camera menus, how to ready the camera for use, and how to take your first pictures and play them back. Camera Menus .................................................................. pg. 26 Using Camera Menus ..................................................................... pg. 28 Help ...................................................................................................... pg. 31 First Steps ...............................................
Camera Menus Most shooting, playback, and setup options can be accessed from the camera menus. To view the menus, press the G button. G button s Tabs Choose from playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, retouch, and My menus (see following page). Slider shows position in current menu. Current settings are shown by icons. Q If “Q” icon is displayed, help for current item can be viewed by pressing L (Q) button (pg. 31). 26 Menu options Options in current menu.
❚❚ Menus The following menus are available: Menu Description Adjust playback settings and manage photos (pg. D Playback 278). C Shooting Adjust shooting settings (pg. 290). A Custom Settings Personalize camera settings (pg. 302). Format memory cards and perform basic camera B Setup setup (pg. 346). Create retouched copies of existing photographs N Retouch (pg. 363). Create a menu of custom options (pg. 376). If desired, a menu of recently-used settings can be O My Menu displayed in place of [My Menu] (pg.
Using Camera Menus ❚❚ Menu Controls The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the menus. Select highlighted item Move cursor up s Select highlighted item or display submenu Cancel and return to previous menu Move cursor down J button Select highlighted item ❚❚ Navigating the Menus Follow the steps below to navigate the menus. 1 Display the menus. Press the G button to display the menus. 2 Highlight the icon for the current menu. Press 4 to highlight the icon for the current menu.
3 Select a menu. Press 1 or 3 to select the desired menu. s 4 Position the cursor in the selected menu. Press 2 to position the cursor in the selected menu. 5 Highlight a menu item. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a menu item. 6 Display options. Press 2 to display options for the selected menu item. 7 Highlight an option. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option.
8 Select the highlighted item. Press J to select the highlighted item. To exit without making a selection, press the G button. s J button Note the following points: • Menu items that are displayed in gray are not currently available. • While pressing 2 or the center of the multi selector generally has the same effect as pressing J, there are some cases in which selection can only be made by pressing J. • To exit the menus and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway (pg. 56).
Help If a Q icon is displayed at the bottom left corner of the monitor, help can be displayed by pressing the L (Q) button. A description of the currently selected option or menu will be displayed while the button is pressed. Press 1 or 3 to scroll through the display.
First Steps Charge the Battery s The D3X is powered by an EN-EL4a rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied). The EN-EL4a is not fully charged at shipment. To maximize shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-22 quick charger before use. About two hours and twenty-five minutes are required to fully recharge the battery when no charge remains. 1 Plug the charger in. Insert the AC adapter plug into the battery charger and plug the power cable into an electrical outlet. All lamps will remain off.
4 Charge the battery. Contacts Chamber lamps Charge lamps (green) s Guide Insert the battery (terminals first), aligning the end of the battery with the guide and then sliding the battery in the direction indicated until it clicks into place.
Insert the Battery 1 Turn the camera off. Power switch Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing batteries. s 2 Remove the battery-chamber cover. Lift the battery-chamber cover latch, turn it to the open (A) position (q) and remove the BL-4 battery-chamber cover (w). 3 Attach the cover to the battery. If the battery release is positioned so that the arrow (4) is visible, slide the battery release to cover the arrow.
4 Insert the battery. Insert the battery as shown at right. 5 s Latch the cover. To prevent the battery from becoming dislodged during operation, rotate the latch to the closed position and fold it down as shown at right. Be sure the cover is securely latched. A EN-EL4a Rechargeable Li-ion Batteries The supplied EN-EL4a shares information with compatible devices, enabling the camera to show battery charge state in six levels (pg. 48).
D The Battery and Charger Read and follow the warnings and cautions on pages xviii–xx and 403–406 of this manual. To prevent short-circuits, replace the terminal cover when the battery is not in use. s Do not use the battery at ambient temperatures below 0°C (32°F) or above 40°C (104°F). Charge indoors at ambient temperatures in the vicinity of 5–35°C (41–95°F); for best results, charge the battery at temperatures above 20°C (68°F).
Attach a Lens Care should be taken to prevent dust from entering the camera when the lens is removed. 1 Remove the rear lens cap and the camera body cap. After confirming that the camera is off, remove the rear lens cap from the lens and remove the camera body cap. 2 s Attach the lens. Keeping the mounting mark on the lens aligned with the mounting mark on the camera body, position the lens in the camera’s bayonet mount.
❚❚ Detaching the Lens 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 lens caps and camera body cap. s D CPU Lenses with Aperture Rings In the case of CPU lenses equipped with an aperture ring (pg. 384), lock aperture at the minimum setting (highest f-number). See the lens manual for details. A Lens An AF Nikkor 85 mm f/1.
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 the camera on. 2 Select [Language]. Power switch s G button Press G to display the camera menus, then select [Language] in the setup menu. For information on using menus, see “Using Camera Menus” (pg. 28). 3 Select a language. Press 1 or 3 to highlight the desired language and press J.
4 Select [World time]. Select [World time] and press 2. s 5 Set time zone. A time-zone selection dialog will be displayed. Press 4 or 2 to highlight the local time zone (the [UTC] field shows the difference between the selected time zone and Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC, in hours) and press J. 6 Turn daylight saving time on or off. Daylight saving time options will be displayed.
8 Set date format. Press 1 or 3 to choose the order in which the year, month, and day will be displayed and press J. 9 s Exit to shooting mode. Press the shutter-release button halfway to exit to shooting mode. A The B Icon If a flashing B icon appears in the top control panel the first time the camera is used, check that clock settings (including time zone and daylight saving time) are correct. The icon will stop flashing when the J button is pressed to exit the menu.
Insert a Memory Card The camera stores photographs on CompactFlash and microdrive memory cards (available separately; pg. 394). Up to two memory cards can be inserted in the camera simultaneously. The following section describes how to insert and format a memory card. s 1 Turn the camera off. Power switch Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing memory cards. 2 Open the card slot cover.
3 Insert the memory card. Insert the first memory card in slot 1. Slot 2 should be used only if a card is already inserted in slot 1. Insert the memory card with the rear label toward the monitor (q). When the memory card is fully inserted, the eject button will pop up (w) and the green access lamp will light briefly. Access lamp s Rear label D Inserting Memory Cards Insert the memory card terminals first. Inserting the card upside down or backwards could damage the camera or the card.
❚❚ Removing Memory Cards 1 Turn the camera off. Confirm that the access lamp is off and turn the camera off. s Access lamp 2 Remove the memory card. Open the memory card slot cover (q) and press the eject button (w) to partially eject the card (e). The memory 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. D Memory Cards • Memory cards may be hot after use.
Formatting Memory Cards Memory cards must be formatted before first use. Format the card as described below. D Formatting Memory Cards Formatting memory cards permanently deletes any data they may contain. Be sure to copy any photographs and other data you wish to keep to a computer before proceeding (pg. 256). 1 Turn the camera on. 2 Press the Q buttons. s Power switch I button O button Hold the Q (I and O) buttons down simultaneously for more than two seconds.
3 Press the Q buttons again. Press the Q (I and O) buttons together a second time to format the memory card. Do not remove the memory card or remove or disconnect the power source during formatting. s When formatting is complete, the top control panel will show the number of photographs that can be recorded at current settings and the frame-count displays will show B. SHOOT CUSTOM A No Memory Card If no memory card is inserted, the top control panel and viewfinder will show S.
Adjust Viewfinder Focus The camera is equipped with diopter adjustment to accommodate individual differences in vision. Check that the display in the viewfinder is in focus before shooting. 1 Lift the diopter adjustment knob. s Remove the lens cap, turn the camera on, and pull the diopter adjustment knob out (q). 2 Focus the viewfinder. Rotate the diopter adjustment knob (w) until the viewfinder display, focus points, and AF area brackets are in sharp focus. 3 Replace the diopter adjustment knob.
Basic Photography and Playback Turn the Camera On s Before taking photographs, turn the camera on and check the battery level and number of exposures remaining as described below. 1 Turn the camera on. Power switch Turn the camera on. The control panels will turn on and the display in the viewfinder will light. 2 Check the battery level. Check the battery level in the viewfinder or top control panel. SHOOT CUSTOM Icon * Control panel Viewfinder Description L — Battery fully charged.
3 Check the number of exposures remaining. SHOOT CUSTOM The top control panel shows the number of photographs that can be taken at current settings. When this number reaches zero, the number of exposures remaining, frame count, and N icon will flash in the top control panel and a flashing g icon will appear in the viewfinder. No further pictures can be taken until you delete pictures or insert a new memory card. You may be able to take additional pictures at lower image quality or size settings.
A The Battery Indicator If the segments in the top control panel battery icon blink on and off, the camera is calculating the battery charge. The battery level will be displayed in about three seconds. A s Auto Meter Off At default settings, the shutter speed and aperture displays in the top control panel and viewfinder will turn off if no operations are performed for about six seconds (auto meter off ), reducing the drain on the battery.
Adjust Camera Settings This tutorial describes how to take photos at default settings. 1 Check camera settings. Exposure mode Image size White balance s SHOOT CUSTOM ISO sensitivity Top control panel Image quality Rear control panel Default settings are listed below. Option Image quality Default NORM (JPEG normal) L (Large) Description Page Record JPEG images at a compression ratio 66 of roughly 1 : 8*. Ideal for snapshots. * [Size priority] selected for [JPEG compression].
2 Choose exposure mode e. I button Press the I button and rotate the main command dial to select exposure mode e. The camera will automatically adjust shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure in most situations. s Main command dial 3 Choose single frame release mode. Release mode dial lock release Hold the release mode dial lock release down and turn the release mode dial to S (single frame).
5 Choose single-servo autofocus. Focus-mode selector Rotate the focus-mode selector until it clicks into place pointing to S (single-servo autofocus). At this setting, the camera will automatically focus on the subject in the selected focus point when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Pictures can only be taken when the camera is in focus. 6 Choose matrix metering. s Metering selector Press the metering selector lock button and rotate the metering selector to Y (matrix metering).
Ready the Camera s When framing photographs in the viewfinder, 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. When framing photographs in portrait (tall) orientation, unlock the shutter-release button for vertical shooting (pg. 5) and hold the camera as shown at right.
Focus and Shoot 1 Press the shutterrelease button halfway to focus (pg. 56). s At default settings, the camera will focus on the subject in the center Focus Buffer focus point. Frame a indicator capacity photo in the viewfinder with the main subject positioned in the center focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway. If the camera is able to focus, the in-focus indicator (I) will appear in the viewfinder. Viewfinder display I 2 4 2 4 (blinks) Description Subject in focus.
2 Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to shoot. Smoothly press the shutterrelease-button the rest of the Access lamp way down to take the picture. While the photograph is being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the card slot cover will light. Do not eject the memory card, turn the camera off, or remove or disconnect the power source until the lamp has gone out. s A The Shutter-Release Button The camera has a two-stage shutter-release button.
Viewing Photographs 1 Press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor. s 2 View additional pictures. Additional pictures can be displayed by pressing 4 or 2. To view additional information on the current photograph, press 1 and 3 (pg. 229). 1/ 10 1/ 125, F5. 6 N I KON D3X 100 85mm 0. 0 AUTO 0, 0 100NCD3X DSC_0001. JPG 15/ 12/ 2008 10: 15: 00 OR AL N ORM 6048x4032 The card containing the current photograph is indicated by an icon as shown at right.
Deleting Unwanted Photographs To delete the photograph currently displayed in the monitor, press the O button. Note that photographs can not be recovered once deleted. s 1 Display the photograph. Display the photograph you wish to delete as described in “Viewing Photographs” on the previous page. K button The card containing the current photograph is indicated by an icon as shown at right. 2 Delete the photograph. Press the O button. A confirmation dialog will be displayed.
dImage Recording Options d This section describes how to choose image area, quality, and size and how to choose the role played by memory card slot 2. Image Area .........................................................................pg. 60 Image Quality.....................................................................pg. 66 Image Size...........................................................................pg. 70 Slot 2 ...............................................................................
Image Area d The camera’s FX format (35.9 × 24.0 mm) image sensor can be used to record pictures with an image area (picture angle) equivalent to a 35mm (135) format film camera. Image area is selected using the [Image area] option in the shooting menu. At the default setting of [Auto DX crop], the camera will automatically crop pictures to the DX picture angle when a DX format lens is attached.
❚❚ Choose Image Area Choose the image area used when [Off ] is selected for [Auto DX crop] (pg. 63). Option c a Description Images are recorded in FX format using the full area of the image sensor (35.9 × 24.0 mm), producing a picture angle FX format equivalent to a Nikkor lens on a (36x24) 35mm format camera. The edges of pictures taken with DX format lenses will be blacked out. An area at the center of the image sensor 23.6 × 15.7 mm is used to record pictures in DX DX format format.
A DX Lenses DX lenses are designed for use with DX format cameras and have a smaller picture angle than lenses for 35mm format cameras. If [Auto DX crop] is off and [FX format (36 × 24)] or [5 :4 (30 × 24)] is selected for [Image area] when a DX lens is attached, the edges of the image may be eclipsed. This may not be apparent in the viewfinder, but when the images are played back you may notice a drop in resolution or that the edges of the picture are blacked out.
Image area can be set using the [Image area] option in the shooting menu or (at default settings) by pressing the Fn button and rotating a command dial. ❚❚ The Image Area Menu 1 Select [Image area]. Highlight [Image area] in the shooting menu (pg. 290) and press 2. 2 d Choose an option. Highlight [Auto DX crop] or [Choose image area] and press 2. 3 Adjust settings. Choose an option and press J. The selected crop is displayed in the viewfinder (pg. 62).
❚❚ The Fn Button d The image area can be selected by pressing the Fn button and rotating the main or subcommand dial until the desired crop is displayed in the viewfinder (pg. 62). This operation (the default option for the Fn button and command dials; pg. 336) can not be performed while a multiple exposure is being recorded (pg. 209).
D Auto DX Crop The Fn button can not be used to select image area when a DX lens is attached and [Auto DX crop] is on. A The Fn, Depth-of-Field Preview, and AE-L/AF-L Buttons Changes to image area settings can be made using the Fn button (the default setting, see Custom Setting f4, [Assign FUNC. button], pg. 333), the depth-of-field preview button (Custom setting f5, [Assign preview button]), pg. 339), or the AE-L/AF-L button (Custom Setting f6, [Assign AE-L/ AF-L button], pg. 340).
Image Quality The camera supports the following image quality options. d Option File type NEF (RAW) NEF TIFF (RGB) TIFF (RGB) Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of roughly 1:4 (fine image quality). * JPEG fine JPEG normal JPEG Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of roughly 1:8 (normal image quality). * Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of roughly 1:16 (basic image quality).
Image quality is set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the rear control panel. QUAL button Main command dial d Rear control panel A File Size See page 427 for information on the number of pictures that can be recorded at different image quality and size settings. A NEF (RAW) Recording The [NEF (RAW) recording] item in the shooting menu controls compression (pg. 69) and bit depth (pg. 69) for NEF (RAW) images.
❚❚ The JPEG Compression Menu The [JPEG compression] item in the shooting menu offers the following options for JPEG images: Option d 68 Description Images are compressed to produce relatively Size priority uniform file size. Quality varies with scene O (default) recorded. Optimal image quality. File size varies with P Optimal quality scene recorded.
❚❚ The NEF (RAW) Recording Menu: Type The [NEF (RAW) recording] > [Type] item in the shooting menu offers the following compression options for NEF (RAW) images: Option Lossless N compressed (default) Description NEF images are compressed using a reversible algorithm, reducing file size by about 20–40% with no effect on image quality. NEF images are compressed using a nonO Compressed reversible algorithm, reducing file size by about 40–55% with almost no effect on image quality.
Image Size Image size is measured in pixels. Choose from Large (the default option), Medium, or Small (note that image size varies depending on the option selected for [Image area], pg. 60): Image area d FX format (36 × 24) DX format (24 × 16) 5 : 4 (30 × 24) Option L M S L M S L M S Size (pixels) 6,048 × 4,032 4,544 × 3,024 3,024 × 2,016 3,968 × 2,640 2,976 × 1,976 1,984 × 1,320 5,056 × 4,032 3,792 × 3,024 2,528 × 2,016 Print size (cm/in.) * 76.8 × 51.2/30.2 × 20.2 57.7 × 38.4/22.7 × 15.1 38.4 × 25.
Image size can be set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the sub-command dial until the desired option is displayed in the rear control panel. QUAL button Sub-command dial d Rear control panel A The Image Size Menu Image size can also be adjusted using the [Image size] option in the shooting menu (pg. 290).
Slot 2 Use the [Slot 2] option in the shooting menu (pg. 290) to choose the role played by the memory card in slot 2. Option d Overflow X (default) Y Backup RAW Slot 1- Z JPEG Slot 2 D Rear control panel Description The memory card in slot 2 is used to record photographs when the memory card in slot 1 is full. Each photograph is recorded to both memory cards.
NFocus – Controlling How the Camera Focuses This section describes the options that control how your camera focuses. N Focus Mode ........................................................................pg. 74 AF-Area Mode ....................................................................pg. 76 Focus Point Selection .......................................................pg. 78 Focus Lock ..........................................................................pg. 80 Manual Focus ........................
Focus Mode N Focus mode is controlled by the Focus-mode selector focus-mode selector on the front of the camera. There are two autofocus (AF) modes, in which the camera focuses automatically when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, and one manual focus mode, in which focus must be adjusted manually using the focusing ring on the lens: Option Description Camera focuses when shutter-release button is pressed halfway.
A The B Buttons For the purpose of focusing the camera, pressing either of the B buttons has the same effect as pressing the shutter-release button halfway. B button N B button for vertical shooting A Predictive Focus Tracking In continuous-servo AF, the camera will initiate predictive focus tracking if the subject moves toward or away from the camera while the shutterrelease button is pressed halfway or either of the B buttons is pressed.
AF-Area Mode AF-area mode determines how the AF-area mode selector focus point is selected in autofocus mode (pg. 74). To select the AFarea mode, rotate the AF-area mode selector. The following options are available: N 76 Mode Description User selects focus point manually; camera focuses on K subject in selected focus point only. Use for relatively Single-point static compositions with subjects that will stay in selected AF focus point. • In continuous-servo AF (pg.
A AF-Area Mode AF-area mode is shown in the shooting information display when the R button is pressed. AF-area mode indicator AF-area mode Information display K Single-point AF N Custom Setting a3 ([Dynamic AF area], pg. 307) 9 points (default) I Dynamicarea AF* 21 points 51 points 51 points (3D-tracking) H Auto-area AF * Only active focus point is displayed in the viewfinder. Remaining focus points provide information to assist focus operation.
Focus Point Selection N The camera offers a choice of 51 AF-area mode selector focus points that together cover a wide area of the frame. The focus point can be selected manually, allowing photographs to be composed with the main subject positioned almost anywhere in the frame (single-point and dynamic-area AF), or automatically (auto-area AF; note that manual focus point detection is not available when auto-area AF is selected). To select the focus point manually: 1 Rotate the focus selector lock to ●.
A Portrait (Tall-Orientation) Photographs When framing shots in portrait (“tall”) orientation, use the command dials to select the focus area. For more information, see Custom Setting f4 ([Assign FUNC. button], pg. 337). A See Also For information on choosing when the focus point is illuminated, see Custom Setting a6 ([Focus point illumination], pg. 310). For information on setting focus-point selection to “wrap around,” see Custom Setting a7 ([Focus point wrap-around], pg. 311).
Focus Lock 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 point in the final composition. It can also be used when the autofocus system is unable to focus (pg. 82). 1 Focus. Position the subject in the selected focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway to initiate focus. N 2 Check that the in-focus indicator (I) appears in the viewfinder.
Continuous-servo AF Press the AE-L/AF-L button to lock both focus and exposure (an AE-L icon appears in the viewfinder, see page 125). Focus and exposure will remain locked while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed, even if you later remove your finger from the shutter-release button. Shutter-release button q w AE-L/AF-L button 3 N Recompose the photograph and shoot.
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, allowing the shutter to be released even when the subject is not in focus. In these cases, use manual focus (pg. 83) or use focus lock (pg. 80) to focus on another subject at the same distance and then recompose the photograph.
Manual Focus Manual focus is available for lenses that do not support autofocus (non-AF Nikkor lenses) or when the autofocus does not produce the desired results (pg. 82). To focus manually, set the focus-mode selector to M 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.
The Electronic Rangefinder N If the lens has a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, the viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm whether the subject in the selected focus point is in focus (the focus point can be selected from any of the 51 focus points). After positioning the subject in the selected focus point, press the shutter-release button halfway and rotate the lens focusing ring until the infocus indicator (I) is displayed (pg. 55).
kRelease Mode – Single Frame, Continuous, Live View, Self-Timer, or Mirror Up Release mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time, in a continuous sequence, with the view through the lens displayed in the monitor, with a timed shutter-release delay, or with the mirror raised to enhance shutter response and minimize vibration. k Choosing a Release Mode............................................... pg. 86 Continuous Mode............................................................. pg.
Choosing a Release Mode The camera supports the following release modes: k Mode S Single frame CL Continuous low speed CH Continuous high speed a Live view E Self-timer MUP Mirror up Description Camera takes one photograph each time shutter-release button is pressed. While shutter-release button is held down, 1–5 frames per second *. While shutter-release button is held down, camera records up to 5 frames per second * (5–7 fps when [DX format (24 × 16)] is selected for [Image area]; see page 60).
To choose a release mode, press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to the desired setting.
Continuous Mode To take pictures in CH (continuous high speed) and CL (continuous low speed) modes: 1 Select CH or CL mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to CH or CL. Release mode dial k 2 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. While the shutter-release button is pressed all the way down, pictures will be taken at the frame rate selected for Custom Setting d2 ([Shooting speed], pg. 321).
A 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. Up to 130 photographs can be taken in succession; note, however, that frame rate will drop when the buffer is full. In rare cases, frame rate may also drop when a microdrive memory card is used. While photographs are being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the memory card slot will light.
Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) k Select live view (a) mode to frame pictures in the monitor. The following options are available: • Hand-held (g): Choose when taking hand-held shots of moving subjects, or when framing photographs at angles that make it difficult to use the viewfinder (pg. 91). Camera focuses normally using phase-detection autofocus. • Tripod (h): Choose when the camera is mounted on a tripod (pg. 94).
Hand-Held Mode (g) 1 Select live view mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to a. Release mode dial 2 Adjust [Live view] options in the shooting menu. Select [Live view] in the shooting menu and choose [Hand-held] for [Live view mode]. k The [Live view] menu also contains a [Release mode] option, where you can choose from single-frame and continuous release modes (pg. 86). 3 Press the shutter-release button all the way down.
4 Frame a picture in the monitor. To magnify the view in the monitor up to 13 ×, press the N button while rotating the main command dial. N button k Main command dial While the view through the lens is zoomed in, a navigation window will appear in the bottom right corner of the display. Use the multi selector to scroll within the AF area brackets. 5 Focus. Autofocus (focus mode S or C): Press the shutter-release button halfway or press an B button. The camera will focus normally and set exposure.
6 Take the picture. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to reset focus and exposure and take the picture. If continuous high speed or continuous low speed is selected for [Release mode], the monitor will turn off while the shutter-release button is pressed. k D No Picture After shooting, play the picture back in the monitor to ensure that the photograph has been recorded.
Tripod Mode (h) 1 Ready the camera. Mount the camera on a tripod or place it on a stable, level surface. 2 Select live view mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to a. k Release mode dial 3 Adjust [Live view] options in the shooting menu. Select [Live view] in the shooting menu and choose [Tripod] for [Live view mode]. [Release mode] options can be selected as described on page 91. 4 Frame a picture in the viewfinder.
5 Press the shutter-release button all the way down. The mirror will be raised and the view through the lens will be displayed in the camera monitor. The subject will no longer be visible in the viewfinder. To exit without taking a picture, rotate the release mode dial to another setting or press G. 6 k Focus. Autofocus (focus mode S or C): In tripod mode, the focus point for contrast-detect autofocus can be moved to any point in the frame using the multi selector.
To magnify the view in the monitor up to 13 × and check focus, press the N button while rotating the main command dial. N button Main command dial While the view through the lens is zoomed in, a navigation window will appear in the bottom right corner of the display. Use the multi selector to scroll to areas of the frame not visible in the monitor. k To preview exposure at current settings, press J.
7 Take the picture. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to take the picture. If continuous high speed or continuous low speed is selected for [Release mode], the monitor will turn off while the shutter-release button is pressed. k D Focusing with Contrast-Detect Autofocus Contrast-detect autofocus will take longer than normal (phase-detection) autofocus.
D Shooting in Live View Mode Although they will not appear in the final picture, banding or distortion may be visible in the monitor under fluorescent, mercury vapor, or sodium lamps or if the camera is panned horizontally or if an object moves at high speed through the frame. Bright light sources may leave after-images in the monitor when the camera is panned. Bright spots may also appear. When shooting in live view mode, avoid pointing the camera at the sun or other strong light sources.
A The Shooting Information Display To hide or display indicators in the monitor in live view mode, press the R button. Shooting information display Virtual horizon 2 Shooting info + histogram 1, 2 Shooting information off k Framing guides 2 1 Only displayed during exposure preview (tripod mode; pg. 96). 2 Not displayed when view through lens is zoomed in. A Monitor Brightness Monitor brightness can be adjusted by pressing the K button while the view through the monitor is displayed.
Self-Timer Mode The self-timer can be used to reduce camera shake or for selfportraits. To use the self-timer, mount the camera on a tripod (recommended) or place the camera on a stable, level surface and follow the steps below: 1 Select self-timer mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to E. k Release mode dial 2 Frame the photograph and Focus-mode selector focus. In single-servo autofocus (pg.
3 Start the timer. Press the shutter-release button all the way down to start the timer. The self-timer lamp will start to blink, stopping two seconds before the photograph is taken. To turn the self-timer off before a photograph is taken, turn the release mode dial to another setting. k A A In self-timer mode, a shutter speed of A is equivalent to approximately 1/10 s. A See Also For information on changing the timer duration, see Custom Setting c3 ([Self-timer delay], pg. 319).
Mirror up Mode Choose this mode to minimize blurring caused by camera movement when the mirror is raised. Use of a tripod is recommended. 1 Select mirror up mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to MUP. k Release mode dial 2 Raise the mirror. Frame the picture, focus, and then press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to raise the mirror.
SISO Sensitivity – Reacting Faster to Light “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. This chapter describes how to set ISO sensitivity manually and automatically. Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually............................ pg. 104 S Auto ISO Sensitivity Control........................................ pg.
Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually ISO sensitivity can be set to values between ISO 100 and ISO 1600 in steps equivalent to 1/3 EV. Settings of from about 0.3–1 EV below ISO 100 and 0.3–2 EV above ISO 1600 are also available for special situations. S ISO sensitivity can be adjusted by pressing the ISO button and rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panels or viewfinder.
A ISO Sensitivity Settings The settings available depend on the option selected for Custom Setting b1 ([ISO sensitivity step value], pg. 314). Custom Setting b1 (ISO sensitivity step value) ISO sensitivity settings available Lo 1, Lo 0.7, Lo 0.3, 100,125,160, 200, 250, 320, 400, 500, 640, 800, 1000, 1250, 1600, Hi 0.3, Hi 0.7, Hi 1, Hi 2 Lo 1, Lo 0.5, 100,140, 200, 280, 400, 560, 800, 1/2 step 1100, 1600, Hi 0.
Auto ISO Sensitivity Control S If [Off ] (the default setting) is chosen for the [ISO sensitivity auto control] option in the shooting menu, ISO sensitivity will remain fixed at the value selected by the user (see page 104). If [On] is chosen, ISO sensitivity will automatically be adjusted if optimal exposure can not be achieved at the value selected by the user (flash level is adjusted appropriately).
A Auto ISO Sensitivity Control Noise is more likely at higher sensitivities. Use the [High ISO NR] option in the shooting menu to reduce noise (see page 300). When a flash is used, the value selected for [Minimum shutter speed] is ignored in favor of the option selected for Custom Setting e1 ([Flash sync speed], pg. 326). Foreground subjects may be underexposed in photos taken with a flash at slow shutter speeds, in daylight, or against a bright background.
S 108
VExposure – Controlling How the Camera Sets Exposure This section describes the options available to control exposure, including metering, exposure mode, exposure lock, exposure compensation, and bracketing. Metering ......................................................................... pg. 110 Exposure Mode.............................................................. pg. 112 e: Programmed Auto................................................................... f: Shutter-Priority Auto .................
Metering Metering determines how the camera sets exposure. The following options are available: Method Z Description Recommended in most situations. Camera meters a wide a area of the frame and sets exposure according to distribution 3D color of brightness, color, distance, and composition for natural matrix II results.
To choose a metering method, press the metering selector lock button and rotate the metering selector until the desired mode is displayed. Metering selector Z A 3D Color Matrix II Metering In matrix metering, exposure is set using a 1005-segment RGB sensor. Use a type G or D lens for results that include range information (3D color matrix metering II; see page 384 for information on lens types). With other CPU lenses, 3D range information is not included (color matrix metering II).
Exposure Mode Exposure mode determines how the camera sets shutter speed and aperture when adjusting exposure. Four modes are available: programmed auto (e), shutter-priority auto (f ), aperture-priority auto (g), and manual (h). Mode Z Description Camera sets shutter speed and aperture for Programmed optimal exposure. Recommended for snapshots e auto and in other situations in which there is little time (pg. 114) to adjust camera settings.
To choose the exposure mode, press the I button and rotate the main command dial until the desired mode is displayed in the viewfinder or top control panel. I button Main command dial A Depth-of-Field Preview To preview the effects of aperture, press and hold the depth-of-field preview button. The lens will be stopped down to the aperture value selected by the camera (modes e and f ) or the value chosen by the user (modes g and h), allowing depth of field to be previewed in the viewfinder.
e: Programmed Auto In this mode, the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture according to a built-in program to ensure optimal exposure in most situations. This mode is recommended for snapshots and other situations in which you want to leave the camera in charge of shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in programmed auto: 1 Select exposure mode e. I button Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until e is displayed in the viewfinder and top control panel.
A Flexible Program In exposure mode e, different combinations of shutter speed and aperture can be selected by rotating the main command dial (“flexible program”). Rotate the command dial to the right for large apertures (small f-numbers) that blur background details or fast shutter speeds that “freeze” motion. Rotate the command dial to the Main command dial left for small apertures (large f-numbers) that increase depth of field or slow shutter speeds that blur motion.
f: Shutter-Priority Auto In shutter-priority auto, you choose the shutter speed while the camera automatically selects the aperture that will produce the optimal exposure. To take photographs in shutter-priority auto: 1 Select exposure mode f. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until f is displayed in the viewfinder and top control panel. Z 2 I button Main command dial Choose a shutter speed. Rotate the main command dial to choose the desired shutter speed.
Fast shutter speed (1/1,000 s) Slow shutter speed (1/10 s) Shutter speed can be locked at the selected setting (see page 123). 3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Z A See Also See page 416 for information on what to do if flashing “A” indicator appears in the shutter-speed displays.
g: Aperture-Priority Auto In aperture-priority auto, you choose the aperture while the camera automatically selects the shutter speed that will produce the optimal exposure. To take photographs in aperture-priority auto: 1 Select exposure mode g. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until g is displayed in the viewfinder and top control panel. Z 2 Main command dial Choose an aperture.
Small apertures (high f-numbers) increase depth of field (see page 113), bringing both foreground and background into focus. Large apertures (low f-numbers) soften background details in portraits or other compositions that emphasize the main subject. Small aperture (f/36) Large aperture (f/2.8) Aperture can be locked at the selected setting (see page 124). 3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot.
h: Manual In manual exposure mode, you control both shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in manual exposure mode: 1 Select exposure mode h. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until h is displayed in the viewfinder and top control panel. Z 120 2 I button Main command dial Choose aperture and shutter speed. Rotate the main command dial to choose a shutter speed, and the sub-command dial to set aperture.
Sub-command dial Setting aperture SHOOT CUSTOM Setting shutter speed SHOOT CUSTOM Main command dial Shutter speed and aperture can be locked at the selected setting (see pages 123, 124). 3 Z Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Shutter speed: 1/250 s Aperture: f/8 A AF Micro Nikkor Lenses Provided that an external exposure meter is used, the exposure ratio need only be taken into account when the lens aperture ring is used to set aperture.
A Electronic Analog Exposure Displays The electronic analog exposure displays in the viewfinder and top control panel show whether the photograph would be under- or over-exposed at current settings. Depending on the option chosen for Custom Setting b2 ([EV steps for exposure cntrl.], pg. 314), the amount of under- or overexposure is shown in increments of 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, or 1 EV. If the limits of the exposure metering system are exceeded, the displays will flash.
Shutter-Speed and Aperture Lock The F button can be used to lock shutter speed at the value selected in shutter-priority auto or manual exposure mode, or to lock aperture at the value selected in aperture-priority auto and manual exposure modes. Lock is not available in programmed auto. ❚❚ Shutter-Speed Lock To lock shutter speed at the selected value, press the F button and rotate the main command dial until R icons appear in the viewfinder and the top control panel.
❚❚ Aperture Lock To lock aperture at the selected value, press the F button and rotate the sub-command dial until R icons appear in the viewfinder and the top control panel. F button Sub-command dial To unlock aperture, press the F button and rotate the sub-command dial until the R icons disappear from the displays.
Autoexposure (AE) Lock Use autoexposure lock to recompose photographs after metering exposure. 1 Select center-weighted or spot metering (pg. 110). Metering selector Matrix metering will not produce the desired results with autoexposure lock. If using center-weighted metering, select the center focus point with the multi selector (pg. 78). 2 Lock exposure. Z Shutter-release button Position the subject in the selected focus point and press the shutterq release button halfway.
3 Recompose the photograph. Keeping the AE-L/AF-L button pressed, recompose the photograph and shoot.
A Metered Area In spot metering, exposure will be locked at the value metered in a 4-mm (0.16 in.) circle centered on the selected focus point. In center-weighted metering, exposure will be locked at the value metered in the center of the viewfinder (the default area for center-weighted metering is shown by the 12-mm circle in the viewfinder).
Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker. In exposure mode h, only the exposure information shown in the electronic analog exposure display is affected; shutter speed and aperture do not change. To choose a value for exposure compensation, press the E button and rotate the main command dial until the desired value is displayed in the viewfinder or top control panel.
Exposure compensation can be set to values between –5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure) in increments of 1/3 EV. In general, choose positive values to make the subject brighter, negative values to make it darker. –1 EV No exposure compensation +1 EV At values other than ±0, the 0 at the center of the electronic analog exposure displays will flash and a E icon will be displayed in the viewfinder and top control panel after you release the E button.
Bracketing The camera offers three types of bracketing: exposure bracketing, flash bracketing, and white balance bracketing. In exposure bracketing (pg. 131), the camera varies exposure compensation with each shot, while in the case of flash bracketing (pg. 131), flash level is varied with each shot (i-TTL and, in the case of the SB-900 and SB-800, auto aperture flash control modes only; see pages 186 and 189).
❚❚ Exposure and Flash Bracketing 1 Select flash or exposure bracketing. Choose the type of bracketing to be performed using Custom Setting e4 ([Auto bracketing set], pg. 328). Choose [AE & flash] to vary both exposure and flash level (the default setting), [AE only] to vary only exposure, or [Flash only] to vary only flash level. 2 Choose the number of shots. Pressing the BKT button, rotate the main command dial to choose the number of shots in the bracketing sequence.
3 Select an exposure increment. Pressing the BKT button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the exposure increment. Exposure increment BKT button Sub-command dial Top control panel At default settings, the size of the increment can be chosen from 1/3, 2/3, and 1 EV. The bracketing programs with an increment of 1/3 EV are listed below. Z Control panel display No. of shots 0 Bracketing order (EVs) 0 3 +0.3/0/+0.7 3 –0.3/–0.7/0 2 0/+0.3 2 0/–0.3 3 0/–0.3/+0.3 5 0/–0.7/–0.3/+0.3/+0.
4 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. The camera will vary exposure and/or flash level shot-by-shot according to the bracketing program selected. Modifications to exposure are added to those made with exposure compensation (see page 128), making it possible to achieve exposure compensation values of more than 5 EV. While bracketing is in effect, a bracketing progress indicator will be displayed in the top control panel and viewfinder. A segment will disappear from the indicator after each shot.
❚❚ Canceling Bracketing To cancel bracketing, press the BKT button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequence is zero (r) and M is no longer displayed in the control panel on top of the camera. The program last in effect will be restored the next time bracketing is activated. Bracketing can also be cancelled by performing a two-button reset (pg. 204), although in this case the bracketing program will not be restored the next time bracketing is activated.
❚❚ White Balance Bracketing 1 Select white balance bracketing. Choose [WB bracketing] for Custom Setting e4 [Auto bracketing set] (pg. 328). 2 Choose the number of shots. Pressing the BKT button, rotate the main command dial to choose the number of shots in the bracketing sequence. The number of shots is shown in the top control panel.
3 Select a white balance increment. Pressing the BKT button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the white balance adjustment. Each increment is roughly equivalent to 5 mired. White balance increment BKT button Sub-command dial Choose from increments of 1 (5 mired), 2 (10 mired), or 3 (15 mired). Higher B values correspond to increased amounts of blue, higher A values to increased amounts of amber (pg. 144). The bracketing programs with an increment of 1 are listed below.
4 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Each shot will be processed to create the number of copies specified in the bracketing program, and each copy will have a different white balance. Modifications to white balance are added to the white balance adjustment made with white balance fine-tuning.
❚❚ Canceling Bracketing To cancel bracketing, press the BKT button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequence is zero (r) and W are no longer displayed in the control panels. The program last in effect will be restored the next time bracketing is activated. Bracketing can also be cancelled by performing a two-button reset (pg. 204), although in this case the bracketing program will not be restored the next time bracketing is activated.
rWhite Balance – Keeping Colors True 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.
White Balance Options For natural coloration, choose a white balance setting that matches the light source before shooting. The following options are available: Option Auto (default) 3,500– 8,000* J Incandescent 3,000* v r I Fluorescent Sodium-vapor lamps 2,700* Warm-white fluorescent White fluorescent 3,000* Cool-white fluorescent 4,200* Day white fluorescent 5,000* Daylight fluorescent 6,500* High temp. mercuryvapor 7,200* H Direct sunlight 140 Color temp.
Option N Flash G Cloudy M Shade K Choose color temp. L Preset manual Color temp. (K) Description 5,400* Use with optional flash units. 6,000* Use in daylight under overcast skies. Use in daylight with subjects in the 8,000* shade. 2,500– Choose color temperature from list of 10,000 values (pg. 147). Use subject, light source, or existing — photograph as reference for white balance (pg. 148). * All values are approximate. Fine-tuning set to 0. Auto white balance is recommended with most light sources.
A Studio Flash Lighting Auto white balance may not produce the desired results with large studio flash units. Choose a color temperature, use preset white balance, or set white balance to [Flash] and use fine tuning to adjust white balance. A Color Temperature The perceived color of a light source varies with the viewer and other conditions.
Fine-Tuning White Balance White balance can be “fine tuned” to compensate for variations in the color of the light source or to introduce a deliberate color cast into an image. 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. ❚❚ The White Balance Menu 1 Select a white balance option. Select [White balance] in the shooting menu (pg. 290), then highlight a white balance option and press 2.
2 Fine tune white balance. Use the multi selector to finetune white balance. White balance can be fine tuned on the amber (A)–blue (B) axis and the green (G)–magenta (M) Coordinates Adjustment axis. The horizontal (amberblue) axis corresponds to color temperature, with each increment equivalent to about 5 mired. The vertical (greenmagenta) axis has the similar effects to the corresponding color compensation (CC) filters.
A White Balance Fine Tuning The colors on the fine-tuning axes are relative, not absolute. For example, moving the cursor to B (blue) when a “warm” setting such as J (incandescent) is selected for white balance will make photographs slightly “colder” but will not actually make them blue. A “Mired” Any given change in color temperature produces a greater difference in color at low color temperatures than it would at higher color temperatures.
❚❚ The WB Button At settings other than K ([Choose color temp.]) and L ([Preset manual]), the WB button can be used to fine-tune white balance on the amber (A)–blue (B) axis (pg. 144; to fine-tune white balance when K or L is selected, use the shooting menu as described on page 143). Six settings in both directions are available; each increment is equivalent to about 5 mired (pg. 145). Press the WB button and rotate the sub-command dial until the desired value is displayed in the rear control panel.
Choosing a Color Temperature When K ([Choose color temp.]) is selected for white balance, color temperature can be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. The color temperature is displayed in the rear control panel: Rear control panel WB button Sub-command dial r D Choose Color Temperature Note that the desired results will not be obtained with flash or fluorescent lighting. Choose N ([Flash]) or I ([Fluorescent]) for these sources.
Preset Manual Preset manual 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 Description Neutral gray or white object is placed under Direct lighting that will be used in final photograph and measurement white balance is measured by camera (pg. 150). Copy from existing White balance is copied from photo on memory photograph card (pg.
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 (pg. 159). d-0 Stores last value measured for white balance (pg. 150). This preset is overwritten when a new value is measured. d-1–d-4 Store values copied from d-0 (pg. 154). Store values copied from images on memory card (pg. 155). r A White Balance Presets Changes to white balance presets apply to all shooting menu banks (pg. 291).
❚❚ Measuring a Value for White Balance 1 Light a reference object. Place a neutral gray or white object under the lighting that will be used in the final photograph. In studio settings, a standard gray panel can be used as a reference object. Note that exposure is automatically increased by 1 EV when measuring white balance; in exposure mode h, adjust exposure so that the electronic analog exposure displays shows ±0 (pg. 122). 2 Set white balance to L ([Preset manual]).
3 Select direct measurement mode. Release the WB button briefly and then press the button until the L icon starts to flash. A flashing D will also appear in the top control panel and viewfinder. At default settings, the displays will flash for about six seconds. SHOOT CUSTOM Top control panel Rear control panel Viewfinder 4 Measure white balance. Before the indicators stop flashing, frame the reference object so that it fills the viewfinder and press the shutter-release button all the way down.
5 Check the results. If the camera was able to measure a value for white balance, C will flash in the control panels, while the viewfinder will show a flashing a. At default settings, the displays will flash for about six seconds. Top control panel Rear control panel Viewfinder If lighting is too dark or too bright, the camera may be unable to measure white balance. A flashing b a will appear in the control panels and viewfinder (at default settings, the displays will flash for about six seconds).
D Direct Measurement Mode If no operations are performed while the displays are flashing, direct measurement mode will end in the time selected for Custom Setting c2 ([Auto meter-off delay], pg. 318). The default setting is six seconds. A Preset d-0 The new value for white balance will be stored in preset d-0, automatically replacing the previous value for this preset (no confirmation dialog will be displayed). A thumbnail will be displayed in the preset white balance list.
❚❚ Copying White Balance from d-0 to Presets d-1–d-4 Follow the steps below to copy a measured value for white balance from d-0 to any of the other presets (d-1–d-4). 1 Select L ([Preset manual]). Highlight [Preset manual] in the white balance menu (pg. 140) and press 2. 2 Select a destination. Highlight the destination preset (d-1 to d-4) and press the center of the multi selector. r 3 Copy d-0 to the selected preset. Highlight [Copy d-0] and press J. If comment has been created for d-0 (pg.
❚❚ Copying White Balance from a Photograph (d-1–d-4 Only) Follow the steps below to copy a value for white balance from a photograph on the memory card to a selected preset (d-1–d-4 only). Existing white balance values can not be copied to preset d-0. 1 Select L ([Preset manual]). Highlight [Preset manual] in the white balance menu (pg. 140) and press 2. 2 Select a destination. Highlight the destination preset (d-1 to d-4) and press the center of the multi selector. 3 r Choose [Select image].
4 Highlight a source image. Highlight the source image. To view the highlighted image full frame, press the N button. If two memory cards are inserted, the slot can be selected by holding the N button and pressing 1. The menu shown at right will be displayed (pg. 228); highlight the desired slot and press J. 5 r Copy white balance. Press the center of the multi selector to copy the white balance value for the highlighted photograph to the selected preset. If the highlighted photograph has a comment (pg.
❚❚ Selecting a White Balance Preset To set white balance to a preset value: 1 Select L ([Preset manual]). Highlight [Preset manual] in the white balance menu (pg. 140) and press 2. 2 Select a preset. Highlight the desired preset and press the center of the multi selector. To select the highlighted preset and display fine tuning menu (pg. 143) without completing the next step, press J instead of pressing the center of the multi selector. 3 r Select [Set]. Highlight [Set] and press 2.
A Selecting a White Balance Preset: the WB Button At a setting of L ([Preset manual]), presets can also be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. The current preset is displayed in the rear control panel while the WB button is pressed.
❚❚ Entering a Comment Follow the steps below to enter a descriptive comment of up to thirty-six characters for a selected white balance preset. 1 Select L ([Preset manual]). Highlight [Preset manual] in the white balance menu (pg. 140) and press 2. 2 Select a preset. Highlight the desired preset and press the center of the multi selector. 3 Select [Edit comment]. r Highlight [Edit comment] and press 2. 4 Edit the comment. Edit the comment as described on page 292.
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JImage Enhancement This chapter describes how to optimize sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation and hue using Picture Controls, how to preserve detail in highlights and shadows using active D-lighting, and how to choose a color space. Picture Controls ............................................................. pg. 162 Creating Custom Picture Controls .......................................... pg. 170 Active D-Lighting .......................................................... pg. 181 Color Space.
Picture Controls Nikon’s unique Picture Control system makes it possible to share image processing settings among compatible devices and software. Select from the Picture Controls provided with the camera to instantly adjust image processing settings, or make independent adjustments to sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue. These settings can be saved under new names as custom Picture Controls to be recalled or edited at will.
❚❚ Using Picture Controls Picture Controls can be used as described below. • Select Nikon Picture Controls (pg. 164): Select an existing Nikon Picture Control. • Modify existing Picture Controls (pg. 166): Modify an existing Picture Control to create a combination of sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue for a particular scene or effect. • Create custom Picture Controls (pg. 170): Store modified Picture Controls under unique names and recall or edit them as desired.
Selecting Nikon Picture Controls The camera offers four preset Nikon Picture Controls. Choose a Picture Control according to the subject or type of scene. Option Q R S T Description Standard processing for balanced results. Standard Recommended for most situations. Minimal processing for natural results. Choose for Neutral photographs that will later be extensively processed or retouched. Pictures are enhanced for a vivid, photoprint effect. Choose for photographs that emphasize primary Vivid colors.
A The Picture Control Grid Pressing the N button in Step 2 displays a Picture Control grid showing the contrast and saturation for the selected Picture Control in relation to the other Picture Controls (only contrast is displayed when [Monochrome] is selected). To select a different Picture Control, press 1 or 3, then press 2 to display Picture Control options and press J.
Modifying Existing Picture Controls Existing Nikon or custom Picture Controls can be modified to suit the scene or the user’s creative intent. Choose a balanced combination of settings using [Quick adjust], or make manual adjustments to individual settings. 1 Select a Picture Control. Highlight the desired Picture Control in the [Set Picture Control] menu (pg. 164) and press 2. 2 Adjust settings. Press 1 or 3 to highlight the desired setting and press 4 or 2 to choose a value (pg. 167).
❚❚ Picture Control Settings Option Manual adjustments (all Picture Controls) Description Choose from options between [–2] and [+2] to reduce or exaggerate the effect of the selected Picture Control (note that this resets all manual adjustments). For Quick adjust example, choosing positive values for [Vivid] makes pictures more vivid. Not available with [Neutral], [Monochrome], or custom Picture Controls. Control the sharpness of outlines.
D Active D-Lighting [Contrast] and [Brightness] can not be adjusted when Active D-Lighting (pg. 181) is on. Any manual adjustments currently in effect will be lost when Active D-Lighting is turned on. D “A” (Auto) Results for auto contrast and saturation vary with exposure and the position of the subject in the frame. Use a type G or D lens for best results.
A Filter Effects (Monochrome Only) The options in this menu simulate the effect of color filters on monochrome photographs. The following filter effects are available: Y O R G Option Yellow Orange Red Green Description Enhances contrast. Can be used to tone down the brightness of the sky in landscape photographs. Orange produces more contrast than yellow, red more contrast than orange. Softens skin tones. Can be used for portraits.
Creating Custom Picture Controls The Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the camera can be modified and saved as custom Picture Controls. 1 Select [Manage Picture Control]. In the shooting menu (pg. 290), highlight [Manage Picture Control] and press 2. 2 Select [Save/edit]. Highlight [Save/edit] and press 2.
3 Select a Picture Control. Highlight an existing Picture Control and press 2, or press J to proceed to step 5 to save a copy of the highlighted Picture Control without further modification. 4 Edit the selected control. See page 167 for more information. To abandon any changes and start over from default settings, press the O button. Press J when settings are complete. 5 Select a destination. Choose a destination for the custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2.
6 Name the Picture Control. Keyboard area Name area The text-entry dialog shown at right will be displayed. By default, new Picture Controls are named by adding a two-digit number (assigned automatically) to the name of the existing Picture Control. This name can be edited to create a new name as described below. To move the cursor in the name area, press the N button and press 4 or 2.
A Custom Picture Controls Custom Picture Controls are not affected by [Reset shooting menu] (pg. 293). Custom Picture Controls do not have a [Quick adjust] option (pg. 167). Custom Picture Controls based on [Monochrome] have [Filter effects] and [Toning] options in place of [Saturation] and [Hue] controls. A The Original Picture Control Icon The Nikon Picture Control on which the custom Picture Control is based is indicated by an icon in the top right corner of the edit display.
Sharing Custom Picture Controls Custom Picture Controls created using the Picture Control Utility available with ViewNX or optional software such as Capture NX 2 can be copied to a memory card and loaded into the camera, or custom Picture Controls created with the camera can be copied to the memory card to be used in compatible cameras and software. ❚❚ Copying Custom Picture Controls to the Camera 1 Select [Load/save]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Load/save] and press 2.
4 Select a destination. Choose a destination for the custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 5 Name the Picture Control. Name the Picture Control as described on page 172. The new Picture Control will appear in the Picture Control list and can be renamed at any time using the [Rename] option in the [Manage Picture Control] menu. J A Use Slot 1 Slot 1 is used when saving custom Picture Controls to a memory card or copying custom Picture Controls to the camera.
❚❚ Saving Custom Picture Controls to the Memory Card 1 Select [Copy to card]. After displaying the [Load/ save] menu as described in Step 1 on page 174, highlight [Copy to card] and press 2. 2 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control and press 2. 3 Choose a destination. Choose a destination from slots 1 through 99 and press J to save the selected Picture Control to the memory card. Any Picture Controls that may already have been saved to the selected slot will be overwritten.
Managing Custom Picture Controls Follow the steps below to rename or delete custom Picture Controls. ❚❚ Renaming Custom Picture Controls 1 Select [Rename]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Rename] and press 2. 2 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 3 Rename the Picture Control. J Rename the Picture Control as described on page 172.
❚❚ Deleting Custom Picture Controls from the Camera 1 Select [Delete]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Delete] and press 2. 2 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 3 Select [Yes]. Highlight [Yes] and press J to delete the selected Picture Control. J A Nikon Picture Controls The Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the camera ([Standard], [Neutral], [Vivid], and [Monochrome]) can not be renamed or deleted.
❚❚ Deleting Custom Picture Controls from the Memory Card 1 Select [Load/save]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Load/save] and press 2. 2 Select [Delete from card]. Highlight [Delete from card] and press 2.
3 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control (slot1 through 99) and either: • press 2 to view current Picture Control settings, or • press J to display confirmation dialog shown at right. 4 J 180 Select [Yes]. Highlight [Yes] and press J to delete the selected Picture Control.
Active D-Lighting Active D-Lighting preserves details in highlights and shadows, creating photographs with natural contrast. Use for high contrast scenes, for example when photographing brightly lit outdoor scenery through a door or window or taking pictures of shaded subjects on a sunny day.
To use Active D-Lighting: 1 Select [Active D-Lighting]. In the shooting menu (pg. 290), highlight [Active D-Lighting] and press 2. 2 Choose an option. Highlight an option and press J. Choose [Auto] to let the camera automatically select [High], [Normal], or [Low] according to shooting conditions. J D Active D-Lighting When Active D-Lighting is on, the capacity of the memory buffer drops and additional time is required to record images (pg. 429). Matrix metering is recommended (pg. 110).
Color Space The color space determines the gamut of colors available for color reproduction. Choose a color space according to how photographs will be processed on leaving the camera. Option Description Choose for photographs that will be printed or W sRGB (default) used “as is,” with no further modification. This color space is capable of expressing a wider gamut of colors than sRGB, making it the preferred X Adobe RGB choice for images that will be extensively processed or retouched.
A Color Space Color spaces define the correspondence between colors and the numeric values that represent them in a digital image file. The sRGB color space is widely used, while the Adobe RGB color space is typically used in publishing and commercial printing.
lFlash Photography – Using Optional Flash Units This chapter describes how to use the camera with optional flash units that support the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS). The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) ............... pg. 186 Compatible Flash Units ................................................ pg. 187 CLS-Compatible Flash Units ..................................................... pg. 187 Other Flash Units .......................................................................... pg.
The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) l Nikon’s advanced Creative Lighting System (CLS) offers improved communication between the camera and compatible flash units for improved flash photography. The Creative Lighting System supports the following features: • i-TTL flash control: Improved through-the-lens (TTL) flash control for use with CLS (see page 193).
Compatible Flash Units CLS-Compatible Flash Units The D3X can be used with the following CLS-compatible flash units: the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, SB-R200, and SU-800. ❚❚ The SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 The principal features of these flash units are listed below. Flash unit Feature SB-900 1 3 34/111 Guide No.
A Guide Number To calculate the range of the flash at full power, divide the Guide Number by the aperture. For example, at ISO 100 the SB-800 has a Guide Number of 38 m or 125 ft.; its range at an aperture of f/5.6 is 38÷5.6 or about 6.8 meters (or in feet, 125÷5.6=23 ft. 7 in.). For each twofold increase in ISO sensitivity, multiply the Guide Number by the square root of two (approximately 1.4).
The following features are available with the SB-900, SB-800, SB600, SB-400, SB-R200, and SU-800: Flash unit Flash mode/feature i-TTL balanced fill-flash i-TTL for digital SLR AA Auto aperture A Non-TTL auto GN Range-priority manual M Manual RPT Repeating flash Auto FP High-Speed Sync 7 FV lock AF-assist for multi-area AF 8 Flash Color Information Communication REAR Rear-curtain sync Y Red-eye reduction Auto zoom Advanced Wireless Lighting Commander Remote SB-900 SB-900 SB-900 SB-800 SB-600 SB-400 SB-800
A The WG-AS1 Water Guard The optional WG-AS1 is a water guard that covers the base of SB-900 flash units mounted on the D3X, increasing the SB-900’s splash resistance by protecting the accessory shoe contacts from rain and spray. A Modeling Illumination CLS-compatible Speedlights such as the SB-900, SB-800, and SB-600 emit a modeling flash when the camera depth-of-field preview button is pressed.
Other Flash Units The following flash units can be used in non-TTL auto and manual modes. If they are set to TTL, the camera shutter-release button will lock and no photographs can be taken.
The SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400 provide red-eye reduction in redeye reduction and slow sync with red-eye reduction modes, while the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SU-800 provide AF-assist illumination when the conditions for AF-assist illumination are met.
i-TTL Flash Control When a CLS-compatible flash unit is set to TTL, the camera automatically selects one of the following types of flash control: i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR: Flash unit emits series of nearly invisible preflashes (monitor preflashes) immediately before main flash.
Flash Modes The camera supports the following flash modes: Flash mode Description This mode is recommended for most situations. In programmed auto and aperture-priority auto modes, shutter speed will automatically be set to values Front-curtain between 1/250 and 1/60 s (1/8,000 to 1/60 s with Auto FP sync High-Speed Sync). Slow sync Flash is combined with shutter speeds as slow as 30 s to capture both subject and background at night or under dim light.
Flash mode Description Combines red-eye reduction with slow sync. Use for portraits taken against a backdrop of night scenery. Available only with SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400 Red-eye in exposure modes e and g. Tripod is recommended to reduction with prevent blurring caused by camera shake.
❚❚ Choosing a Flash Mode To choose the flash mode, press the M button and rotate the main command dial until the desired flash mode is selected in the top control panel: M button Front-curtain sync l Slow sync 1 Red-eye reduction with slow sync 3, 4 Main-command dial Rear-curtain sync 2 Red-eye reduction 3 1 Available only in exposure modes e and g. In modes f and h, frontcurtain sync is selected when M button is released.
A Studio Flash Systems Rear-curtain sync can not be used with studio flash systems, as the correct synchronization can not be obtained.
FV Lock This feature is used to lock flash output, allowing photographs to be recomposed without changing the flash level and ensuring that flash output is appropriate to the subject even when the subject is not positioned in the center of the frame. Flash output is adjusted automatically for any changes in ISO sensitivity and aperture. FV lock is available with CLS compatible flash units only. To use FV lock: 1 Assign FV lock to the Fn button. Select [FV lock] for Custom Setting f4 ([Assign FUNC.
4 Focus. Position the subject in the center of the frame and press the shutter-release button halfway to focus. 5 Lock flash level. After confirming that the flash ready indicator (M) is displayed in the viewfinder, press the Fn button. The flash will emit a monitor preflash to determine the appropriate flash level. Flash output will be locked at this level and FV lock icons (P and e) will appear in the top control panel and viewfinder. 6 Fn button SHOOT CUSTOM Recompose the photograph.
8 Release FV lock. Press the Fn button to release FV lock. Confirm that the FV lock icons (P and e) are no longer displayed in the top control panel and viewfinder.
Flash Contacts The camera is equipped with an accessory shoe for attaching optional flash units directly to the camera and a sync terminal that allows flash units to be connected via a sync cable. When an optional flash unit is attached, the flash will fire whenever the shutter is released. ❚❚ The Accessory Shoe Use the accessory shoe to mount optional flash units directly on the camera without a sync cable (pg. 187).
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tOther Shooting Options This chapter covers restoring default settings, making multiple exposures, interval timer photography, and using GPS units and non-CPU lenses. Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings........ pg. 204 Multiple Exposure ......................................................... pg. 206 Interval Timer Photography........................................ pg. 211 Non-CPU Lenses ............................................................ pg. 218 Using a GPS Unit........................
Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings The camera settings listed below can be restored to default values by holding the ISO and WB buttons down together for more than two seconds (these buttons are marked by a green dot). The control panels turn off briefly while settings are reset.
The following shooting-menu options will also be reset. Only settings in the bank currently selected using the [Shooting menu bank] option will be reset (pg. 291). Settings in the remaining banks are unaffected. Option Image quality Image size Default JPEG Normal Large Option White balance ISO sensitivity Default Auto * 100 * Fine-tuning off. If the current Picture Control has been modified, existing settings for the Picture Control will also be restored.
Multiple Exposure Follow the steps below to record a series of two to ten exposures in a single photograph. Multiple exposures can be recorded at any image quality setting, and produce results with colors noticeably better than photographs combined in an imaging application because they make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor.
3 Select the number of shots. Press 1 or 3 to choose the number of exposures that will be combined to form a single photograph and press J. 4 Select [Auto gain]. Highlight [Auto gain] and press 2. 5 Set gain. Highlight one of the following options and press J. Option Description Gain adjusted according to number of exposures actually On recorded (gain for each exposure is set to 1/2 for 2 (default) exposures, 1/3 for 3 exposures, etc.). Gain is not adjusted when recording multiple exposure.
6 Select [Done]. Highlight [Done] and press J. A n icon will be displayed in the top control panel. To exit without taking a multiple exposure, select [Multiple exposure] > [Reset] in the shooting menu. 7 t Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. In continuous high-speed and continuous lowspeed release modes (pg. 86), the camera will record all exposures in a single burst.
D Multiple Exposure Do not remove or replace the memory card while recording a multiple exposure. Live view (pg. 90) can not be used to record multiple exposures. The information listed in the playback photo information display (including date of recording and camera orientation) is for the first shot in the multiple exposure.
❚❚ Interrupting Multiple Exposures Selecting [Multiple exposure] in the shooting menu while a multiple exposure is being recorded displays the options shown at right. To interrupt a multiple exposure before the specified number of exposures have been taken, highlight [Cancel] and press J. If shooting ends before the specified number of exposures have been taken, a multiple exposure will be created from the exposures that have been recorded to that point.
Interval Timer Photography The camera is equipped to take photographs automatically at preset intervals. 1 Select [Interval timer shooting]. Highlight [Interval timer shooting] in the shooting menu (pg. 290) and press 2. 2 Select a starting trigger. Highlight one of the following [Choose start time] options and press 2. • [Now]: Shooting begins about 3 s after settings are completed (proceed to Step 4). • [Start time]: Choose a start time (see Step 3).
3 Choose a start time. Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours or minutes; press 1 or 3 to change. The starting time is not displayed if [Now] is selected for [Choose start time]. 4 Choose an interval. Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours, minutes, or seconds; press 1 or 3 to change. Note that the camera will not be able to take photographs at the specified interval if it is shorter than the shutter speed or the time required to record images.
6 Start shooting. Highlight [Start] > [On] and press J (to return to the shooting menu without starting the interval timer, highlight [Start] > [Off] and press J). The first series of shots will be taken at the specified starting time. Shooting will continue at the selected interval until all shots have been taken. A message will be displayed in the monitor one minute before each series of shots is taken.
D Out of Memory If the memory card is full, the interval timer will remain active but no pictures will be taken. Resume shooting (pg. 215) after deleting some pictures or turning the camera off and inserting another memory card. D Bracketing Adjust bracketing settings before starting interval timer photography.
❚❚ Pausing Interval Timer Photography Interval time photography can be paused by: • Pressing the J button between intervals • Highlighting [Start] > [Pause] in the interval timer menu and pressing J • Turning the camera off and then on again (if desired, the memory card can be replaced while the camera is off ) • Selecting live view (a), self-timer (E), or mirror-up (MUP) release modes To resume shooting: 1 Choose a new starting trigger.
❚❚ Interrupting Interval Timer Photography Interval timer shooting will end automatically if the battery is exhausted. Interval timer photography can also be ended by: • Selecting [Start] > [Off ] in the interval timer menu • Performing a two button reset (pg. 204) • Selecting [Reset shooting menu] in the shooting menu (pg. 293) • Changing bracketing settings (pg. 130) Normal shooting will resume when interval timer photography ends.
A Shooting Menu Banks Changes to interval timer settings apply to all shooting menu banks (pg. 291). If shooting menu settings are reset using the [Reset shooting menu] item in the shooting menu (pg.
Non-CPU Lenses By specifying lens data (lens focal length and maximum aperture), the user can gain access to a variety of CPU lens functions when using a non-CPU lens.
❚❚ The Non-CPU Lens Data Menu 1 Select [Non-CPU lens data]. Highlight [Non-CPU lens data] in the setup menu (pg. 346) and press 2. 2 Select a lens number. Highlight [Lens number] and press 4 or 2 to choose a lens number between 1 and 9. 3 Select a focal length. Highlight [Focal length (mm)] and press 4 or 2 to choose a focal length between 6 and 4,000 mm. 4 Select a maximum aperture. t Highlight [Maximum aperture] and press 4 or 2 to choose a maximum aperture between f/1.2 and f/22.
5 Select [Done]. Highlight [Done] and press J. The specified focal length and aperture will be stored under the chosen lens number. This combination of focal length and aperture can be recalled at any time by selecting the lens number using camera controls as described below. ❚❚ Choosing a Lens Number Using Camera Controls 1 Assign non-CPU lens number selection to a camera control. Select [Choose non-CPU lens number] as the “+command dials” option for a camera control in the Custom Settings menu.
Using a GPS Unit A GPS unit can be connected to the ten-pin remote terminal, allowing the current latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and heading to be recorded with each photograph taken. The camera can be used with an optional GP-1 GPS unit (see below; note that the GP-1 does not provide the compass heading), or with third-party units connected via an optional MC-35 GPS adapter cord (pg. 222).
❚❚ Other GPS Units Optional Garmin GPS units that conform to version 2.01 or 3.01 of the National Marine Electronics Association NMEA0183 data format can be connected to the camera’s ten-pin remote terminal using an MC-35 GPS adapter cord (available separately; pg. 393). Operation has been confirmed with Garmin eTrex and Garmin geko series devices equipped with a PC interface cable connector.
❚❚ The k Icon When the camera establishes communication with a GPS device, a k icon will be displayed in the top control panel. Photo information for pictures taken while the k icon is displayed will include a page of GPS data (pg. 238), including the current latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and heading (if supported). If no data are received from the GPS unit for two seconds, the k icon will clear from the display and the camera will stop recording GPS information.
❚❚ Setup Menu Options The [GPS] item in the setup menu contains the options listed below. • [Auto meter off]: Choose whether or not the exposure meters will turn off automatically when a GPS unit is attached. Option Description Exposure meters will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for the period specified in Custom Setting c2 Enable [Auto meter-off delay].
IMore About Playback – Playback Options This chapter describes how to play back photographs and details the operations that can be performed during playback. Full-Frame Playback...................................................... pg. 226 Photo Information ........................................................ pg. 229 Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback ...... pg. 241 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom ....................... pg. 243 Protecting Photographs from Deletion .................... pg.
Full-Frame Playback To play photographs back, press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor. Multi selector Sub-command dial O button K button G button N button L button J button H button I Main command dial A Rotate Tall To display “tall” (portrait-orientation) photographs in tall orientation, select [On] for the [Rotate tall] option in the playback menu (pg. 287).
To Use Description View additional photographs Press 2 to view photographs in order recorded, 4 to view photographs in reverse order. View photo information Press 1 or 3 to view information about current photograph (pg. 229). View thumbnails N+ See page 241 for more information on the thumbnail display. Zoom in on photograph N+ See page 243 for more information on playback zoom.
A Image Review When [On] is selected for [Image review] in the playback menu (pg. 287), photographs are automatically displayed in the monitor for about 20 s (the default setting) after shooting (because the camera is already in the correct orientation, images are not rotated automatically during image review). In single-frame, self-timer, and mirror-up release modes, photographs are displayed one at a time as they are taken.
Photo Information Photo information is superimposed on images displayed in fullframe playback. There are up to 9 pages of information for each photo. Press 1 or 3 to cycle through photo information as shown below. Note that shooting data, RGB histograms, and highlights are only displayed if corresponding option is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 282; shooting data page 4 is only displayed if copyright information was recorded with the photograph as described on page 357).
❚❚ File Information 1 2 3 4 5 6 1/ 10 15 14 13 100NCD3X DSC_0001. JPG 15/ 12/ 2008 10: 15: 00 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 11 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 Protect status ............................ 244 Retouch indicator .................... 363 Focus point 1 .............................. 282 AF area brackets...................47, 92 Frame number/ total number of frames 7 Image quality ...............................66 10 9 N OR ORMAL AL 6048x4032 7 8 8 Image size ............................
❚❚ Highlights 1 1 2 3 5 6 100-1 4 7 1 2 3 4 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 Protect status ............................ 244 Retouch indicator .................... 363 Highlight display indicator... 282 5 Image highlights 2 ...................282 6 Folder number–frame number 3 ......................................293 7 Current channel 2 1 Displayed only if [Highlights] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 282).
❚❚ RGB Histogram 1 1 2 3 8 4 9 5 100-1 10 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 I Voice memo icon ...................... 248 6 Histogram (RGB channel) 4. In all histograms, horizontal axis gives Protect status ............................. 244 pixel brightness, vertical axis Retouch indicator ..................... 363 number of pixels. Image highlights 2 .................. 282 7 Current channel 2 Folder number–frame 4 number 3 ......................................
4 Some sample histograms are shown below: • If the image contains objects with a wide range of brightnesses, the distribution of tones will be relatively even. • If the image is dark, tone distribution will be shifted to the left. • If the image is bright, tone distribution will be shifted to the right. Increasing exposure compensation shifts the distribution of tones to the right, while decreasing exposure compensation shifts the distribution to the left.
❚❚ Shooting Data Page 1 1 1 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 2 3 MTR, SPD, AP. EXP. MODE, I SO , EXP. TUN I NG FOCAL LENGTH LENS AF / VR FLASH MODE, N I KON D3X 11 1 2 3 4 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 Protect status ............................ 244 Retouch indicator .................... 363 Metering method .................... 110 Shutter speed...................116, 120 Aperture.............................118, 120 5 Exposure mode ........................ 112 ISO sensitivity 2 .........................
❚❚ Shooting Data Page 2 1 1 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 2 3 WHI TE BALANCE COLOR SPACE P I CTURE CTRL QUI CK ADJUST SHARPENING CONTRAST BR IGHTNESS SATURAT ION HUE N I KON D3X 13 1 2 3 4 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 Protect status ............................ 244 Retouch indicator .................... 363 White balance ........................... 140 Color temperature................... 147 White balance fine-tuning ... 143 Preset manual .......................... 148 5 Color space..............
❚❚ Shooting Data Page 3 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 NOI SE REDUC. ACT. D- L I GHT . V IGNETT E CTRL RETOUCH 8 COMMENT N I KON D3X 9 : HI I SO/ LONG EXP. : NORMAL : NORMAL : D- L I GHT ING : WARM F I LTER : CYANOTYPE : TR I M : SPR ING HAS COME. SP : R ING HAS COME. 3636 100-1 10 11 1 2 3 4 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 6 Vignette control........................299 Protect status ............................ 244 7 Retouch history.........................363 Retouch indicator ....................
❚❚ Shooting Data Page 4 1 1 2 3 4 ARTIST : NIKON TARO 5 COPYRI GHT : NI KON N I KON D3X 6 1 2 3 4 5 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 Protect status ............................ 244 Retouch indicator .................... 363 Name of photographer......... 357 Copyright holder..................... 357 100-1 7 8 6 Camera name 7 Image area 2 ................................. 60 8 Folder number–frame number 2......................................
❚❚ GPS Data 1 1 4 2 3 LAT I TUDE 5 LONGI TUDE 6 7 ALT I TUDE T I ME (UTC) 8 HEADING N I KON D3X 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 :N : 35º 35. 971' :E : 13 9º 43. 696' : 35m : 15 / 12 /2008 : 01 : 15 : 00 : 105. 17º 100-1 10 11 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 7 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) Protect status ............................ 244 2 Retouch indicator .................... 363 8 Heading 9 Camera name Latitude 10 Image area 3 .................................
❚❚ Overview Data 1 2 3 1/ 10 4 N I KON D3X 5 17 16 15 14 13 12 6 1/ 8000, F2. 8 Hi 0. 3 + 1. 3 –1. 3 REAR 10000 A6, M1 L 100NCD3X DSC_0001. JPG 15/ 12/ 2008 10: 15: 00 1 Frame number/ total number of frames 2 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 3 Protect status ............................ 244 4 Camera name 5 Retouch indicator .................... 363 6 Histogram showing the distribution of tones in the image (pg. 233).
1/ 10 30 29 28 N I KON D3X 1/ 8000, F2. 8 Hi 0. 3 + 1. 3 –1. 3 REAR 10000 A6, M1 L 100NCD3X DSC_0001. JPG 15/ 12/ 2008 10: 15: 00 27 26 25 18 Picture Control........................... 162 19 Active D-Lighting...................... 181 20 File name ..................................... 296 21 Image quality ................................66 22 Image size.......................................70 23 Image area 2 ...................................60 24 Image authentication indicator..................
Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback To display images in “contact sheets” of four or nine images, press the N button and rotate the main command dial.
The following operations can be performed while thumbnails are displayed: To Change number of images displayed Description Press N button and rotate main command to left to display one, four, or nine images per page. N+ Toggle full frame playback Press center of multi selector to switch back and forth between full frame and thumbnail playback. Highlight images Use multi selector to highlight images for full-frame playback, playback zoom (pg. 243), or deletion (pg. 245).
Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom Press the N button and rotate the main command dial right to zoom in on the image displayed in full-frame playback or on the image currently highlighted in thumbnail playback. The following operations can be performed while zoom is in effect: To Zoom in or out View other areas of image Use Description Press N button to display frame showing area currently zoomed in.
Protecting Photographs from Deletion In full-frame, zoom, and thumbnail playback, the L button can be used to protect photographs from accidental deletion. Protected files can not be deleted using the O button or the [Delete] option in the playback menu. Note that protected images will be deleted when the memory card is formatted (pp. 45, 347). To protect a photograph: 1 Select an image. Display the image in fullframe playback or playback zoom or highlight it in the thumbnail list. 2 Press the L button.
Deleting Individual Photographs To delete the photograph displayed in full-frame playback or the photograph highlighted in the thumbnail list, press the O button. Once deleted, photographs can not be recovered. 1 Select an image. Display the image or highlight it in the thumbnail list. 2 Press the O button. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. Full-frame playback Thumbnail playback To delete the photograph, press the O button again. To exit without deleting the photograph, press the K button.
A Voice Memos If a voice memo has been recorded with the selected image, the confirmation dialog shown at right will be displayed when the O button is pressed. • [Image/sound]: Select this option and press the O button to delete both photo and voice memo. • [Sound only]: Select this option and press the O button to delete only the voice memo. To exit without deleting either voice memo or photo, press K. A See Also To delete multiple images, use the [Delete] option in the playback menu (pg. 281).
eVoice Memos – Recording and Playback The camera is equipped with a built-in microphone, allowing voice memos to be added to photographs. Voice memos can be played back over the camera’s built-in speaker. Recording Voice Memos .............................................. pg. 248 Playing Voice Memos.................................................... pg.
Recording Voice Memos Voice memos up to sixty seconds long can be added to photographs using the built-in microphone. Readying the Camera for Recording Before recording voice memos, choose the desired options for the [Voice memo] (pg. 248), [Voice memo overwrite] (pg. 249), and [Voice memo button] (pg. 249) options in the setup menu. ❚❚ Voice Memo This option controls whether voice memos are recorded automatically or manually.
❚❚ Voice Memo Overwrite This option controls whether the voice memo for the most recent photograph can be overwritten in shooting mode. The following options are available: Option Description Voice memo can not be recorded in Disable shooting mode if one already exists for (default) most recent image. Voice memo can be recorded in shooting mode even if one already Enable exists for most recent image (pg. 250). Existing memo will be deleted and replaced by new memo.
Automatic Recording (Shooting Mode) If [On (Auto and manual)] is selected for [Voice memo] (pg. 248), a voice memo will be added to the most recent photograph when shooting ends. Recording will end when the H button is pressed or after the specified recording time has ended. Manual Recording (Shooting Mode) If [On (Auto and manual)] or [Manual only] is selected for [Voice memo] (pg. 248), a voice memo can be recorded for the most recent photograph by pressing and holding the H button.
Playback Mode To add a voice memo to the photograph currently displayed in full-frame playback or highlighted in the thumbnail list (pg. 226): 1 Choose a photograph. Display or highlight the photograph. Only one voice memo can be recorded per image; additional voice memos can not be recorded for images already marked with a h icon. 2 Press and hold the H button.
A Interrupting Recording Recording will end automatically if: • The G button is pressed to display the menus • The K button is pressed • The shutter-release button is pressed halfway • The camera is turned off During interval timer photography, recording will end automatically about two seconds before the next photograph is taken. A After Recording If a voice memo has been recorded for the most recent photograph, a C icon will be displayed in the rear control panel.
Playing Voice Memos Voice memos can be played back over the camera’s built-in speaker when the associated image is viewed in full-frame playback or highlighted in the thumbnail list (pp. 226, 242). The presence of a voice memo is indicated by an h icon. To Press Start/end playback H Delete voice memo O Description Press H to start playback. Playback will end when H button is pressed again or entire memo has been played back. Confirmation dialog will be displayed.
Voice Memo Playback Options The [Audio output] option in the setup menu controls whether voice memos are played back over the camera’s built-in speaker or by a device to which the camera is connected via an HDMI or audio/video cable. When sound is played back over the built-in speaker, the [Audio output] option also controls playback volume. Option d Via speaker (default) Description Voice memos are played back over built-in speaker. Selecting this option displays menu shown at right.
QConnections – Connecting to External Devices This chapter describes how to copy photographs to a computer, how to print pictures, and how to view them on a television set. Connecting to a Computer ........................................... pg. 256 Direct USB Connection ................................................................ pg. 258 Wireless and Ethernet Networks .............................................. pg. 261 Printing Photographs .................................................... pg.
Connecting to a Computer This section describes how to connect the camera to a computer using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. Once the camera is connected, Nikon Transfer (supplied) or optional Nikon software such as Camera Control Pro 2 can be used to copy photographs to the computer or control the camera remotely. Q D Connecting Cables Be sure the camera is off when connecting or disconnecting interface cables. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle.
❚❚ Before Connecting the Camera Install the necessary software from the supplied installer CD (see the Install Guide for more information). To ensure that data transfer is not interrupted, be sure the camera battery is fully charged. If in doubt, charge the battery before use or use an EH-6 AC adapter (available separately). Before connecting the camera, select the [USB] option in the camera setup menu (pg. 352) and choose a USB option from [MTP/PTP] (default) and [Mass Storage] as described below.
Direct USB Connection Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. 1 Select a USB option. Before connecting the camera to the computer, make sure the correct option is selected for the [USB] item in the camera setup menu (pg. 257). 2 Turn the camera off. 3 Turn the computer on. Power switch Turn the computer on and wait for it to start up. 4 Connect the USB cable. Connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle.
D The USB Cable Clip To prevent cable from being disconnected, fasten the clip as shown. D USB Hubs Connect the camera directly to the computer; do not connect the cable via a USB hub or keyboard. 5 Turn the camera on. Power switch If [Mass Storage] is selected for [USB] (pg. 257), c will be displayed in the control panels and viewfinder, and the PC connection indicator will flash in the top control panel (camera displays do not change if [MTP/PTP] is selected). 6 Transfer photographs.
7 Turn the camera off. If [MTP/PTP] is selected for [USB], the camera can be turned off and the USB cable disconnected once transfer is complete. If [Mass Storage] is selected, the camera must first be removed from the system as described below. Windows Vista Click the “Safely Remove Hardware” icon ( ) in the taskbar and select [Safely Remove USB Mass Storage Device] from the menu that appears.
Wireless and Ethernet Networks If the optional WT-4 wireless transmitter is attached, photographs can be transferred or printed over wireless or Ethernet networks and the camera can also be controlled from network computers running Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately). The WT-4 can be used in any of the following modes: Mode Function Upload new or existing photographs to computer or ftp Transfer mode server. Thumbnail Preview photographs on computer monitor before select mode upload.
Printing Photographs Photographs can be printed by any of the following methods: • Connect the camera to a printer and print JPEG photographs directly from the camera (pg. 263). • Insert the camera memory card in a printer equipped with a card slot (see the printer manual for details). If the printer supports DPOF (pg. 440), photographs can be selected for printing using [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 272). • Take the camera memory card to a developer or digital printer center. If the center supports DPOF (pg.
Direct USB Connection If the camera is connected to a PictBridge printer via the supplied USB cable, selected JPEG pictures can be printed directly from the camera. Take photographs Select photographs for printing using [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 272) Select [MTP/PTP] in camera [USB] menu and connect camera to printer (pg. 264) Print photographs one at a time (pg. 265) Print multiple photographs (pg. 268) Create index prints (pg.
❚❚ Connecting the Printer Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. 1 Select [MTP/PTP]. If the [USB] option in the camera setup menu has been changed from the default setting of [MTP/PTP], display the [USB] menu and select [MTP/PTP] (pg. 257). 2 Turn the camera off. 3 Connect the USB cable. Turn the printer on and connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle. 4 Q 264 Turn the camera on.
❚❚ Printing Pictures One at a Time 1 Select a picture. Press 4 or 2 to view additional pictures, or press the N button and rotate the main command dial right to zoom in on the current frame (pg. 243). Press K to return to full-frame playback. To view six pictures at a time, press the center of the multi selector. Use the multi selector to highlight pictures, or press the center of the multi selector again to display the highlighted picture full frame. 2 Display printing options.
3 Adjust printing options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. Option Q 266 Description Menu shown at right will be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to choose page size (to print at Page size default page size for current printer, select [Printer default]), then press J to select and return to previous menu. Menu shown at right will be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to No. of choose number of copies copies (maximum 99), then press J to select and return to previous menu.
Option Description Menu shown at right will be displayed. To exit without cropping picture, highlight [No cropping] and press J. To crop picture, highlight [Crop] and press 2. Cropping If [Crop] is selected, dialog shown at right will be displayed. Rotate main command dial to right to increase size of crop, left to decrease. Choose position of crop using multi selector and press J. 4 Start printing. Select [Start printing] and press J to start printing.
Printing Multiple Pictures 1 Display the PictBridge menu. Press the G button in the PictBridge playback display (see Step 4 on page 264). G button 2 Choose [Print select] or [Print (DPOF)]. Highlight one of the following options and press 2. • [Print select]: Select pictures for printing. • [Print (DPOF)]: Print an existing print order created with the [Print set (DPOF)] option in the playback menu (pg. 272). The current print order will be displayed in Step 3.
3 Select pictures. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture full screen, press N button. To select the L button current picture for printing, press the L button and press 1. The picture will be marked with a Z icon and the number of prints will be set to 1. Keeping the L button pressed, press 1 or 3 to specify the number of prints (up to 99; to deselect the picture, press 3 when the number of prints is 1).
5 Adjust printing options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. Option Description Menu of page size options will be displayed (pg. 266). Press 1 or 3 to choose page size (to print at default Page size page size for current printer, select [Printer default]), then press J to select and return to previous menu. Menu of border options will be displayed (pg. 266).
❚❚ Creating Index Prints To create an index print of all JPEG pictures on the memory card, select [Index print] in Step 2 of “Printing Multiple Pictures” (pg. 268). Note that if the memory card contains more than 256 pictures, only the first 256 images will be printed. 1 Select [Index print]. Highlight [Index print] in the PictBridge menu (pg. 268) and press 2. The confirmation dialog shown at right will be displayed. 2 Display printing options. Press J to display PictBridge printing options.
❚❚ Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set The [Print set (DPOF)] option in the playback menu is used to create digital “print orders” for PictBridge-compatible printers and devices that support DPOF. Selecting [Print set (DPOF)] from the playback menu displays the menu shown in Step 1. 1 Choose [Select/set]. Highlight [Select/set] and press 2. 2 Q 272 Select pictures. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card.
3 Select imprint options. Highlight the following options and press 2 to toggle the highlighted option on or off (to complete the print order without including this information, proceed to Step 4). • [Data imprint]: Print shutter speed and aperture on all pictures in print order. • [Imprint date]: Print date of recording on all pictures in print order. 4 Complete the print order. Highlight [Done] and press J to complete the print order.
Viewing Photographs on TV The supplied EG-D2 audio/video (A/V) cable can be used to connect the D3X to a television or VCR for playback or recording. A type A High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable (available separately from commercial sources) can be used to connect the camera to high-definition video devices. Standard Definition Devices To connect the camera to a standard television: 1 Turn the camera off. Always turn the camera off before connecting or disconnecting the A/V cable.
4 Turn the camera on and press K button. During playback, images will be displayed both on the television screen and in the camera monitor. A Video Mode (pg. 348) Be sure that the video standard matches the standard used in the video device. Note that resolution will drop when images are output on a PAL device. A Television Playback Use of an EH-6 AC adapter (available separately) is recommended for extended playback.
High-Definition Devices The camera can be connected to HDMI devices using a type A HDMI cable (available separately from commercial sources). 1 Turn the camera off. Always turn the camera off before connecting or disconnecting an HDMI cable. 2 Connect the HDMI cable as shown. Connect to camera Connect to highdefinition device 3 Tune the device to the HDMI channel. 4 Turn the camera on and press K button.
UMenu Guide This chapter describes the options available in the camera menus. D The Playback Menu: Managing Images ............... pg. 278 C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options................. pg. 290 A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings........................................................ pg. 302 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup............................... pg. 346 N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies..................................................... pg.
D The Playback Menu: Managing Images The playback menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the playback menu, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus” (pg. 26).
Selecting Multiple Pictures To select multiple pictures for [Delete] (pg. 281), [Hide image] (pg. 281), [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 272), and direct printing (pg. 268): 1 Highlight a picture. To view the highlighted picture full screen, press and hold the N button. If two memory cards are inserted, the slot can be selected by holding the N button and pressing 1. The menu shown at right will be displayed (pg. 228); highlight the desired slot and press J.
3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 to select additional pictures. To deselect a picture, highlight it and press center of multi selector. 4 Press J to complete the operation. J button A confirmation dialog will be displayed; highlight [Yes] and press J.
Delete Select this option to delete pictures and their associated voice memos. Protected and hidden images will not be deleted. Option Selected Q R All Description Delete selected pictures. Delete all pictures in the folder currently selected for playback (pg. 281). If two memory cards are inserted, a slot selection dialog will be displayed before deletion. Playback Folder Choose a folder for playback.
Display Mode Choose the information available in the playback photo information display (pg. 229). Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option, then press 2 to select the option for the photo information display. A L appears next to selected items; to deselect, highlight and press 2. To return to the playback menu, highlight [Done] and press J. Option Description Basic photo info Active focus point (or, in single-servo AF, focus point where focus first locked) is shown in red in photo information display.
Copy Image(s) Copy photographs from the memory card in slot 1 to the memory card in slot 2. i j 1 Option Description Select image(s) Select photographs from memory card in slot 1. Select destination Select destination folder on memory card in folder slot 2. Copy selected photographs to specified Copy image(s)? destination. Choose [Select image(s)]. Highlight [Select image(s)] and press 2. 2 Choose the source folder. Highlight the folder containing the images to be copied and press 2.
3 Preselect all or protected images. Highlight one of the following options and press 2: • [Deselect all]: No images will be preselected. Choose this option when selecting individual images by hand. • [Select all images]: Preselect all images in the current folder. Choose this option when selecting all or most images in the current folder to be copied. • [Select protected images]: Preselect all protected images in the current folder. 4 Select images. Images preselected in Step 3 are marked by a L icon.
6 Choose a selection method. Highlight one of the following options and press 2. Option Description Enter number of destination folder (pg. 294). Select folder by number Select destination folder from list. Select folder from list 7 Select a destination folder. Enter the desired folder number or highlight the destination folder and press J to select the folder and return to the [Copy image(s)] menu. 8 Select [Copy image(s)?]. Highlight [Copy image(s)?] and press 2.
9 Select [Yes]. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. Highlight [Yes] and press J. D Copy Image(s)? Images can only be copied if there is sufficient space on the destination memory card. Hidden pictures can not be copied. If the destination folder contains a file with the same name as a file selected for copying, a warning will be displayed. To replace the existing file, highlight [Replace existing image] or [Replace all] and press J.
Image Review Choose whether pictures are automatically displayed in the monitor immediately after shooting. Option Description Pictures are automatically displayed in the monitor after On shooting. Off (default) Pictures can only be displayed by pressing K button. After Delete Choose the picture displayed after an image is deleted. Option Show next S (default) Show T previous Description Display following picture. If deleted picture was last frame, previous picture will be displayed.
Slide Show Create a slide show of the pictures in the current playback folder (pg. 281). Hidden images (pg. 281) are not displayed. Option Description Start Start slide show. Frame interval Choose how long each picture will be displayed. Display menu of voice memo playback options Audio playback (pg. 289). To start the slide show, highlight [Start] and press J.
A dialog shown at right is displayed when the show ends or when the J button is pressed to pause playback. Select [Restart] to restart (if the slide was paused, the show will resume from the next slide) or [Exit] to return to the playback menu. ❚❚ Audio Playback Choose [On] to play voice memos during slide shows. The following options will be displayed: Option Description Playback ends when next frame is displayed, even if Frame interval entire memo has not been played.
C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options The shooting menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the shooting menu, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus” (pg. 26). Option Shooting menu bank Reset shooting menu Active folder File naming Slot 2 Image quality Image size Image area JPEG compression NEF (RAW) recording White balance Set Picture Control Manage Picture Control Color space Active D-Lighting Vignette control Long exp.
Shooting Menu Bank Shooting menu options are stored in one of four banks. With the exceptions of [Interval timer shooting], [Multiple exposure], and modifications to Picture Controls (quick adjust and other manual adjustments), changes to settings in one bank have no effect on the others. To store a particular combination of frequently-used settings, select one of the four banks and set the camera to these settings.
2 Enter a name. Keyboard area To move the cursor in the name area, press the N button and press 4 or 2. To enter a new letter at the current cursor position, use the multi selector Name area to highlight the desired character in the keyboard area and press the center of the multi selector. To delete the character at the current cursor position, press the O button. To return to the shooting menu without changing the bank name, press the G button. Bank names can be up to twenty characters long.
Reset Shooting Menu Choose whether to restore default settings for the current shooting menu bank. See page 423 for a list of default settings. With the exceptions of image quality, image size, white balance, and ISO sensitivity, shooting menu settings are not reset when a two-button reset (pg. 204) is performed. Option Description Yes Restore defaults for the current shooting menu bank. No (default) Exit without changing shooting menu settings.
2 Choose a folder number. Press the 4 or 2 to highlight a digit, press 1 or 3 to change. If a folder with the selected number already exists, a W, X, or Y icon will be displayed to the left of the folder number: • W: Folder is empty. • X: Folder is partially full. • Y: Folder contains 999 pictures or a picture numbered 9999. No further pictures can be stored in this folder. 3 Save changes and exit.
❚❚ Select Folder 1 Choose [Select folder]. Highlight [Select folder] and press 2. 2 Highlight a folder. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a folder. 3 Select the highlighted folder. Press J to select the highlighted folder and return to the shooting menu (to exit without changing the active folder, press the G button). Subsequent photographs will be stored in the selected folder.
File Naming Photographs are saved using file names consisting of “DSC_” or, in the case of images that use the Adobe RGB color space, “_DSC”, followed by a four-digit number and a three-letter extension (e.g., “DSC_ 0001.JPG”). The [File naming] option is used to select three letters to replace the “DSC” portion of the file name. For information on editing file names, see steps 2 and 3 of “Renaming Shooting Menu Banks” (pg. 292).
Image Size Choose the size at which pictures are recorded (pg. 70). Image Area Although the D3X can record photographs with the same diagonal picture angle as a 35mm format camera using a 3 : 2 aspect ratio, it can also be used to record photographs with the smaller DX picture angle or the 5 : 4 aspect ratio (pg. 60). JPEG Compression Choose whether to compress JPEG images to a fixed size or to vary file size for improved image quality (pg. 68).
Set Picture Control Select from the Picture Controls provided with the camera to instantly adjust image processing settings (pg. 162). Manage Picture Control Save and modify custom Picture Control combinations, or copy custom Picture Controls to or from the memory card (pg. 170). Color Space Choose from sRGB and Adobe RGB color spaces (pg. 183). Active D-Lighting This option can be used to prevent loss of detail in highlights and shadows (pg. 181). The default setting is [Off ].
Vignette Control “Vignetting” is a drop in brightness at the edges of a photograph. [Vignette control] reduces vignetting for type G and D lenses (DX and PC lenses excluded). Its effects vary from lens to lens and are most noticeable at maximum aperture. Choose from [High], [Normal] (the default setting), [Low], and [Off].
Long Exp. NR (Long Exposure Noise Reduction) Choose whether to reduce noise in pictures taken at slow shutter speeds. Option Description Photographs taken at shutter speeds slower than 8s are processed to reduce noise. While photographs are being processed, “l m” will blink in the shutter speed/aperture displays for a period of time On approximately equal to the current shutter speed. In continuous release mode, frame rates will slow and the capacity of the memory buffer will drop.
ISO Sensitivity Settings Adjust ISO sensitivity and ISO sensitivity auto control settings (pp. 104, 106). Live View Choose a live view mode and the release mode that will be used when the camera is in live view mode (pg. 91). Multiple Exposure Create a single photograph from two to ten exposures (pg. 206). Interval Timer Shooting Take photographs automatically at pre-selected intervals. Use for time-lapse movies of such subjects as flowers opening or butterflies emerging from cocoons (pg. 211).
A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings Custom Settings are used to customize camera settings to suit individual preferences. In addition to Custom Settings B ([Custom setting bank]) and A ([Reset custom settings]), settings in the Custom Settings menu are divided into the six groups shown at right. Main menu U 302 B: Custom setting bank (pg. 304) A: Reset custom settings (pg.
The following Custom Settings are available: B A a a1 a2 a3 a4 a5 a6 a7 a8 a9 a10 b b1 b2 b3 b4 b5 b6 c c1 c2 c3 c4 Custom Setting Custom setting bank Reset custom settings Autofocus AF-C priority selection AF-S priority selection Dynamic AF area Focus tracking with lock-on AF activation Focus point illumination Focus point wrap-around AF point selection B button Vertical B button Metering/exposure ISO sensitivity step value EV steps for exposure cntrl. EV steps for exposure comp.
B: Custom Setting Bank Custom Settings are stored in one of four banks. Changes to settings in one bank have no effect on the others. To store a particular combination of frequently-used settings, select one of the four banks and set the camera to these settings. The new settings will be stored in the bank even when the camera is turned off, and will be restored the next time the bank is selected.
a: Autofocus a1: AF-C Priority Selection This option controls whether Focus mode selector photographs can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed (release priority) or only when the camera is in focus (focus priority) in continuous-servo AF. To select continuous-servo AF, rotate the focus mode selector to C. Option Release G (default) Description Photos can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed. Photos can be taken even when the camera is not in Release + E focus.
a2: AF-S Priority Selection This option controls whether photographs can be taken only when the camera is in focus (focus priority) or whenever the shutterrelease button is pressed (release priority) in single-servo AF. To select single-servo AF, rotate the focus mode selector to S. Option G Release F Focus (default) Focus mode selector Description Photos can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed. Photos can only be taken when the in-focus indicator (I) is displayed.
a3: Dynamic AF Area If the subject leaves the selected focus point when dynamic-area AF (I; pg. 76) is selected in continuous-servo AF (focus mode C; pg. 74), the camera will focus based on information from surrounding focus points. Choose the number of points from 9, 21, and 51 based on subject movement. Only active focus point is displayed in the viewfinder. Remaining focus points provide information to assist focus operation.
Option Description If the subject leaves the selected focus point, the camera will use 3D-tracking to track the subject and select a new focus point as required. Use to 51 points f (3D-tracking) quickly compose pictures with subjects that are moving erratically from side to side (e.g., tennis players). If the subject leaves the viewfinder, remove your finger from the shutter-release button and recompose the photograph with the subject in the selected focus point.
a4: Focus Tracking with Lock-On This option controls how autofocus adjusts to sudden large changes in the distance to the subject. Option Description C Long When the distance to the subject changes abruptly, the Normal camera waits for the specified period (long, normal, or D (default) short) before adjusting the distance to the subject. This prevents the camera from refocusing when the subject is E Short briefly obscured by objects passing through the frame.
a6: Focus Point Illumination The options in this menu control whether or not the focus points are illuminated. Option Description Manual Choose [On] (the default setting) to display the active focus mode focus point in manual focus mode. Choose [On] (the default setting) to display the active Continuous focus point in CH (continuous high-speed) and CL mode (continuous low-speed) modes.
a7: Focus Point Wrap-Around Choose whether focus-point selection “wraps around” from one edge of the viewfinder to another. Option Description Focus-point selection “wraps around” from top to bottom, q bottom to top, right to left, and left w to right, so that, for example, Wrap pressing 2 when a focus point at the right edge of the viewfinder display is highlighted (q) selects the corresponding focus point at the left edge of the display (w).
a9: AF-ON Button Choose the function performed when the B button is pressed. Option B A (default) Description Pressing the B button initiates autofocus. Focus and exposure lock while the B button is pressed. C AE lock only Exposure locks while the B button is pressed. Exposure locks when the B button is pressed, and AE lock remains locked until the button is pressed a second D (Reset on time, the shutter is released, or the exposure meters release) turn off.
a10: Vertical AF-ON Button Choose the function assigned to the B button for vertical shooting. Option Description Both B buttons perform the function selected G Same as AF-ON for Custom Setting a9. AF-ON Pressing the vertical B button initiates A (default) autofocus. Focus and exposure lock while the vertical B B AE/AF lock button is pressed. Exposure locks while the vertical B button is C AE lock only pressed.
b: Metering/Exposure b1: ISO Sensitivity Step Value This option determines whether adjustments to sensitivity are made in increments equivalent to 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, or 1 EV. Option 1/3 step H (default) I 1/2 step J 1 step b2: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl. This option determines whether adjustments to shutter speed, aperture, and bracketing are made in increments equivalent to 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, or 1 EV. Option Description Changes to shutter speed and aperture are in increments 1/3 step H equivalent to 1/3 EV.
b4: Easy Exposure Compensation This option controls whether the E button is needed to set exposure compensation (pg. 128). If [On (Auto reset)] or [On] is selected, the 0 at the center of the exposure display will blink even when exposure compensation is set to ±0. Option K On (Auto reset) On Off (default) Description Exposure compensation is set by rotating one of the command dials (see note below).
b5: Center-Weighted Area When calculating exposure, centerweighted metering assigns the greatest weight to a circle in the center of the frame. The diameter (φ ) of this circle can be set to 8, 12, 15, or 20 mm or to the average of the entire frame. L M N O P Option φ 8 mm φ 12 mm (default) φ 15 mm φ 20 mm Average Note that unless [Average] is selected, the diameter is fixed at 12 mm when a non-CPU lens is used, regardless of the setting selected for [Non-CPU lens data] in the setup menu (pg. 218).
3 Select a metering method. Highlight [Matrix metering], [Center-weighted], or [Spot metering] and press 2. 4 Choose an exposure value. Press 1 or 3 to choose an exposure value from +1 to –1 EV. Press J to save changes and exit. D Fine-Tuning Exposure Exposure can be fine-tuned separately for each Custom Settings bank and is not affected by two-button resets.
c: Timers/AE Lock c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L At the default setting of [Off], exposure only locks when the AE-L/ AF-L button is pressed. If [On] is selected, exposure will also lock when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. c2: Auto Meter-off Delay This option controls how long the camera continues to meter exposure when no operations are performed. Choose from 4 s, 6 s, 8 s, 16 s, 30 s, 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or until the camera is turned off ([No limit]).
c3: Self-Timer Delay This option controls the length of the shutter release delay in self-timer mode. Choose from 2 s, 5 s, 10 s, and 20 s. Option a 2s b 5s c 10 s (default) d 20 s c4: Monitor off Delay This option controls how long the monitor remains on when no operations are performed. Choose from 10 s, 20 s, 1 minute, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes. Choose a shorter monitor-off delay for longer battery life.
d: Shooting/Display d1: Beep Choose [High] or [Low] to sound a beep when the self-timer is used or the camera focuses in single-servo autofocus (note that a beep will not sound if [Release] is selected for Custom Setting a2 ([AF-S priority selection], pg. 306). Option Description Choose the pitch of the beep y High from [High] and [Low]. A c icon is displayed in the top control panel and shooting z Low information displays. Off (default) Turn the beep speaker off.
d2: Shooting Speed Choose the maximum frame advance rate for CH (continuous highspeed) and CL (continuous low-speed) modes. Note that the frame advance rate may drop below the selected value at slow shutter speeds, or when using VR (vibration reduction) mode with VR lenses. Option Continuous high-speed Continuous low-speed Description In CH (continuous high-speed) mode, the frame advance rate for DX format (pg. 61) can be selected from 5 (the default setting), 6, and 7 frames per second (fps).
d4: File Number Sequence When a photograph is taken, the camera names the file by adding one to the last file number used. This option controls whether file numbering continues from the last number used when a new folder is created, the memory card is formatted, or a new memory card is inserted in the camera.
d5: Control Panel/Viewfinder Choose the information displayed in the viewfinder and rear control panel. Option Description Choose from [ISO sensitivity] (y; the default setting) and Rear control [Exposures remaining] (g). If [Exposures remaining] is panel selected, ISO sensitivity will only be displayed while the ISO button is pressed. Choose from [Frame count] (h; the default setting) and Viewfinder [Exposures remaining] (g).
d6: Shooting Info Display At the default setting of [Auto] (AUTO), the color of the lettering in the information display (pg. 14) will automatically change from black to white or white to black to maintain contrast with the background. To always use the same color lettering, select [Manual] and choose [Dark on light] (B; black lettering) or [Light on dark] (W; white lettering). Monitor brightness will automatically be adjusted for maximum contrast with the selected text color.
d7: LCD Illumination At the default setting of [Off ], the control panel backlights (LCD illuminators) will only light while the power switch is rotated toward D. If [On] is selected, the control panels will be illuminated while the exposure meters are active (pg. 50). Select [Off ] for increased battery life. d8: Exposure Delay Mode At the default setting of [Off ], shutter is released when the shutterrelease button is pressed. When shooting with [Tripod] selected in live view mode (pg.
e: Bracketing/Flash e1: Flash Sync Speed This option controls flash sync speed. Option Description Auto FP high-speed sync is used with SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-R200 flash units. If other flash units are used, shutter speed is set to 1/250 s. When the 1/250 s (Auto FP) camera shows a shutter speed of 1/250 s in exposure mode e or g, auto FP high-speed sync will be activated if the actual shutter speed is faster than 1/250 s. 1/250 s (default) Flash sync speed set to 1/250 s.
e2: Flash Shutter Speed This option determines the slowest shutter speed available when using front- or rear-curtain sync or red-eye reduction in programmed auto or aperture-priority auto exposure modes (regardless of the setting chosen, shutter speeds can be as slow as 30 s in shutter-priority auto and manual exposure modes or at flash settings of slow sync, slow rear-curtain sync, or red-eye reduction with slow sync). Options range from 1/60 s ([1/60 s], the default setting) to 30 s ([30 s]).
e4: Auto Bracketing Set Choose the setting or settings bracketed when auto bracketing (pg. 130) is in effect. Choose [AE & flash] (j; the default setting) to perform both exposure and flash-level bracketing, [AE only] (k) to bracket only exposure, [Flash only] (l) to perform only flash-level bracketing, or [WB bracketing] (m) to perform white-balance bracketing (pg. 135). Note that white balance bracketing is not available at image quality settings of NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW) + JPEG.
e5: Auto Bracketing (Mode M) This option determines which settings are affected when [AE & flash] or [AE only] is selected for Custom Setting e4 in manual exposure mode. Option F G H I Description Camera varies shutter speed (Custom Setting e4 set Flash/speed to [AE only]) or shutter speed and flash level (default) (Custom Setting e4 set to [AE & flash]).
e6: Bracketing Order At the default setting of [MTR]>[under]>[over] (H), bracketing is performed in the order described on pages 132 and 136. If [Under]>[MTR]>[over] (I) is selected, shooting will proceed in order from the lowest to the highest value.
f: Controls f1: Multi Selector Center Button This option determines what operations can be performed by pressing the center of the multi selector in shooting, live view, and playback modes. ❚❚ Shooting Mode Selecting [Shooting mode] displays the following options: J Option Select center focus point (default) Not used Description Pressing the center of the multi selector in shooting mode selects the center focus point.
❚❚ Live View Selecting [Live view] displays the following options: J Option Select center focus point (default) p Zoom on/off Not used Description Pressing the center of the multi selector in live view selects the center focus point. Press the center of the multi selector to toggle zoom on and off. Choose the initial zoom setting from [Low magnification], [Medium magnification], and [High magnification]. The zoom display will center on the active focus point.
f4: Assign FUNC. Button Choose the role played by the Fn button, either by itself ([FUNC. button press]) or when used in combination with the command dials ([FUNC. button+dials]). ❚❚ FUNC. Button Press Selecting [FUNC. button press] for Custom Setting f4 displays the following options: Option Description Press the Fn button to preview depth of field q Preview * (pg. 113). Press the Fn button to lock flash value (SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 flash units only, r FV lock * pg. 198).
Option Bracketing t burst Matrix L metering Center- M weighted Spot N metering Virtual u horizon * D Playback * Access top O item in My Menu * None (default) Description If the Fn button is pressed while exposure or flash bracketing is active in single frame release mode, all shots in the current bracketing program will be taken at 5 fps while the shutter-release button is pressed.
A Virtual Horizon When [Virtual horizon] is selected for [FUNC. button press], the electronic analog exposure displays in the viewfinder and top control panel act as a horizontal level when the Fn button is pressed. Camera tilted right Camera level Camera tilted left Control panel Viewfinder Note that the display may not be accurate when the camera is tilted at a sharp angle forward or back.
❚❚ FUNC. Button+Dials Selecting [FUNC. button+dials] for Custom Setting f4 displays the following options: Option Choose image area i (FX/DX/5:4) (default) U 336 Description The Fn button and main command dial can be used to select the image area from FX, DX, and 5 : 4 (pg. 60). The image area can not be changed while shooting a multiple exposure (pg. 206). The Fn button and main command dial can be used Choose to switch between FX and DX image areas.
Portrait (Tall-Orientation) Photographs To use the command dials to select the focus point when framing shots in portrait (“tall”) orientation: 1 Choose [Focus point-selection]. Select [Focus point-selection] for Custom Setting f4 ([Assign FUNC. button]) > [FUNC. button+dials]. 2 Unlock the shutter-release Vertical shutter-release button lock button for vertical shooting.
3 Select the focus point. With the camera in portrait (“tall”) orientation, select a focus point by pressing the Fn button and rotating the command dials for vertical shooting. Use the main command dial to move the focus area selection left or right, the sub-command dial to move it up or down.
f5: Assign Preview Button Choose the role played by the depth-of-field preview button, either by itself ([Preview button press]) or when used in combination with the command dials ([Preview + command dials]). The options available are the same as for [FUNC. button press] (pg. 333) and [FUNC. button+dials] (pg.
f6: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button Choose the role played by the AE-L/AF-L button, either by itself ([AE-L/AF-L button press]) or when used in combination with the command dials ([AE-L/AF-L+command dials]). The options available for [AE-L/AF-L button press] are the same as for [FUNC. button press] (pg.
f7: Customize Command Dials This option controls the operation of the main and sub-command dials. Option Reverse rotation Change main/sub Description Controls the direction of the command dials. Choose [No] (the default option) for normal command dial operation, or [Yes] to reverse the rotation of the command dials. This setting also applies to the command dials for vertical shooting. At the default setting of [Off ], the main command dial controls shutter speed and the sub-command dial controls aperture.
Option Description At the default setting of [Sub-command dial], aperture can only be adjusted with the sub-command dial (or with the main command dial if [On] is selected for [Change main/ sub]). If [Aperture ring] is selected, aperture can only be adjusted with the lens aperture ring and the camera aperture Aperture display will show aperture in increments of 1 EV (aperture for setting type G lenses is still set using the sub-command dial).
f8: Release Button to Use Dial This option allows adjustments that are normally made by holding a button and rotating a command dial to be made by rotating the command dial after the button is released. At the default setting of [No], the button must be pressed while the command dial is rotated. If [Yes] is selected, the setting can be changed by rotating the command dial after the button is released.
f9: No Memory Card? At the default setting of [Enable release], the shutter can be released when no memory card is inserted, although no pictures will be recorded (they will however be displayed in the monitor in demo mode). If [Release locked] is selected, the shutter-release button is only enabled when a memory card is inserted in the camera.
f10: Reverse Indicators At the default setting of (V), the exposure indicators in the top control panel and shooting information display are displayed with positive values on the left and negative (W) to display values on the right. Select negative values on the left and positive values on the right.
B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup The setup menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the setup menu, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus” (pg. 26).
Format Memory Card Format the card in the selected slot. Note that formatting permanently deletes all pictures and other data on the card. Before formatting, be sure to make backup copies as required. D During Formatting Do not turn the camera off or remove memory cards during formatting. A Two-Button Format Memory cards can also be formatted by pressing the Q (O and I) buttons for more than two seconds (pg. 45). LCD Brightness Press 1 or 3 to choose from seven settings for monitor brightness.
Video Mode When connecting the camera to a television or VCR via the A/V out connector, be sure the camera video mode matches the device video standard (NTSC or PAL). HDMI The camera is equipped with an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connector, allowing pictures to be played back on high-definition televisions or monitors using a type A cable (available separately from commercial suppliers). Before connecting the camera to high-definition device, choose the HDMI format from the options below.
World Time Change time zones, set the camera clock, choose the date display order, and turn daylight saving time on or off. Option Description Choose a time zone. The camera clock is automatically Time zone set to the time in the new time zone. Date and time Set the camera clock (pg. 40). Choose the order in which the day, month, and year are Date format displayed. Turn daylight saving time on or off. The camera clock Daylight will automatically be advanced or set back one hour.
Image Comment Add a comment to new photographs as they are taken. Comments can be viewed in ViewNX (supplied) or Capture NX 2 (available separately; pg. 391). The comment is also visible on the third shooting data page in the photo information display. • [Done]: Save changes and return to the setup menu. • [Input comment]: Input a comment as described on page 292. Comments can be up to 36 characters long. • [Attach comment]: Select this option to attach the comment to all subsequent photographs.
Auto Image Rotation Photographs taken while [On] (the default option) is selected contain information on camera orientation, allowing them to be rotated automatically during playback (pg. 287) or when viewed in ViewNX (supplied) or Capture NX 2 (available separately; pg. 391). The following orientations are recorded: Landscape (wide) orientation Camera rotated 90° clockwise Camera rotated 90° counter-clockwise Camera orientation is not recorded when [Off ] is selected.
Voice Memo Overwrite This option determines whether the voice memo for the last photograph recorded can be overwritten when the camera is in shooting mode. See “Voice Memos: Recording Voice Memos” (pg. 249). Voice Memo Button This option controls the operation of the H button. See “Voice Memos: Recording Voice Memos” (pg. 249). Audio Output Choose output options for voice memo playback. See “Voice Memos: Playing Voice Memos” (pg. 254).
Dust off Ref Photo Acquire reference data for the Image Dust Off option in Capture NX 2 (available separately; for more information, see the software manual). [Dust off ref photo] is available only when a CPU lens is mounted on the camera. A non-DX lens with a focal length of at least 50 mm is recommended. When using a zoom lens, zoom all the way in. 1 Select [Start]. Highlight [Start] and press J. The message shown at right will be displayed and “rEF” will appear in the viewfinder and top control panel.
3 Acquire dust off reference data. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to acquire Image Dust Off reference data. The monitor turns off when the shutter-release button is pressed. If the reference object is too bright or too dark, the camera may be unable to acquire Image Dust Off reference data and the message shown at right will be displayed. Choose another reference object and repeat the process from step 1.
Battery Info View information on the battery currently inserted in the camera. Item Bat. meter Description The current battery level expressed as a percentage. The number of times the shutter has been released with the current battery since the battery was last charged. Note Pic. meter that the camera may sometimes release the shutter without recording a photograph, for example when measuring preset white balance.
Wireless Transmitter This option is used to adjust settings for connection to a wireless network, using an optional WT-4 wireless transmitter. See “Connections: Wireless and Ethernet Networks” (pg. 261). Image Authentication Choose whether to embed image authentication information in new photographs as they are taken, allowing alterations to be detected using Nikon’s optional Image Authentication software. Image authentication information can not be embedded in existing photographs.
Copyright Information Add copyright information to new photographs as they are taken. Copyright information is visible on the fourth shooting data page in the photo information display (pg. 237) and can be viewed using ViewNX (supplied) or Capture NX 2 (available separately; pg. 391). • [Done]: Save changes and return to the setup menu. • [Artist]: Enter a photographer name as described on page 292. Photographer names can be up to 36 characters long.
Save/Load Settings Select [Save settings] to save the following settings to the memory card in slot 1 (if the memory card is full, an error will be displayed; pg 417). Menu Playback Shooting (all banks) Option Display mode Image review After delete Rotate tall Shooting menu bank File naming Slot 2 Image quality Image size Image area JPEG compression NEF (RAW) recording White balance (with fine tuning and presets d-0–d-4) Set Picture Control Color space Active D-Lighting Vignette control Long exp.
Menu Option Video mode HDMI World time (excepting date and time) Language Image comment Auto image rotation Voice memo Setup Voice memo overwrite Voice memo button Audio output USB Image authentication Copyright information GPS Non-CPU lens data All My Menu items My Menu/ All recent settings Recent Settings Choose tab Settings saved using the D3X can be restored by selecting [Load settings].
GPS Adjust settings for connection to a GPS unit (pg. 221). Virtual Horizon Display a virtual horizon based on information from the camera orientation sensor. D Tilting the Camera The virtual horizon display is not accurate when the camera is tilted at a sharp angle forward or back. A See Also For information on using the electronic analog exposure displays as a tilt meter, see Custom Setting f4 ([Assign FUNC. button] > [FUNC. button press]; pg. 334).
AF Fine Tune Fine-tune focus for up to 20 lens types. AF tuning is not recommended in most situations; use only when required. Option Description AF fine • [On]: Turn AF tuning on. tune • [Off] (default): Turn AF tuning off. (On/Off) Tune AF for the current lens (CPU Move focal lenses only). Press 1 or 3 to point away Saved choose a value between +20 and from camera. value –20. Values for up to 20 lens types can be stored. Only one value can be stored for each type of lens.
Option Description List previously saved AF tuning values. If a value exists for the current lens, it will be shown with a V icon. To delete a lens from the list, highlight the desired lens and press O.
N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies The options in the retouch menu are used to create trimmed, or retouched copies of the photographs on the memory card. The retouch menu is only displayed when a memory card containing photographs is inserted in the camera. For information on using the shooting menu, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus” (pg. 26).
Creating Retouched Copies 1 Select an item in the retouch menu. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an item, 2 to select. Depending on the option selected, a menu may be displayed; highlight an option and press 2. 2 Select a picture. The pictures on the memory card will be displayed. Use the multi selector to highlight a picture (to view the highlighted picture full screen, press and hold the N button). If two memory cards are inserted, the slot can be selected by holding the N button and pressing 1.
4 Create a retouched copy. Press J to create a retouched copy. Retouched copies are indicated by a N icon. D Retouching Copies Copies created with [Trim] can not be further modified. D-lighting, red-eye correction, filter effects, and color balance can not be applied to monochrome copies. Otherwise the options in the retouch menu can each be applied once to existing copies, although this may result in loss of detail. A Image Quality Except in the case of copies created with [Trim] (pg.
D-Lighting D-Lighting brightens shadows, making it ideal for dark or backlit photographs. Before Press 1 or 3 to choose the amount of correction performed. The effect can be previewed in the edit display. Press J to copy the photograph.
Red-Eye Correction This option is used to correct “red-eye” caused by the flash and is available only with photographs taken using the flash. The photograph selected for red-eye correction is previewed as shown at right. Confirm the effects of red-eye correction and create a copy as described in the following table.
Trim Create a cropped copy of the selected photograph. The selected photograph is displayed with the selected crop shown in yellow; create a cropped copy as described in the following table. To Use Reduce size of crop N+ Increase size of crop N+ Change crop aspect ratio Move crop Use multi selector to move crop to other area of image. Preview crop Press center of multi selector to preview cropped image.
A Trim: Image Quality and Size Copies created from NEF (RAW), NEF (RAW) + JPEG, or TIFF (RGB) photos have an image quality (pg. 66) of JPEG fine; cropped copies created from JPEG photos have the same image quality as the original. The size of the copy varies with crop size and aspect ratio.
Filter Effects Choose from the following color filter effects. After adjusting filter effects as described below, press J to copy the photograph. Option Skylight Warm filter Description Creates the effect of a skylight filter, making the picture less blue. The effect can be previewed in the monitor as shown at right. Creates a copy with warm tone filter effects, giving the copy a “warm” red cast. The effect can be previewed in the monitor.
Image Overlay Image overlay combines two existing NEF (RAW) photographs to create a single picture that is saved separately from the originals with results that are noticeably better than photographs combined in an imaging application because they make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor. The new picture is saved at current image quality and size settings; before creating an overlay, set image quality and size (pp. 66, 70; all options are available).
4 Select the highlighted photograph. Press J to select the highlighted photograph and return to the preview display. The selected image will appear as [Image 1]. 5 Set gain. Optimize exposure for the overlay by pressing 1 or 3 to select the gain for image 1 from values between 0.1 and 2.0. The default value is 1.0; selecting 0.5 cuts gain in half, while selecting 2.0 doubles gain. The effects of gain are visible in the [Preview] column. 6 Select the second photograph.
8 Preview the overlay. Press 1 or 3 to highlight [Overlay] and press J (to save the overlay without displaying a preview, highlight [Save] and press J). To return to Step 7 and select new photos or adjust gain, press N. 9 Save the overlay. Press J while the preview is displayed to save the overlay. After an overlay is created, the resulting image will be displayed full-frame in the monitor. + D Image Overlay Only NEF (RAW) photographs created with the D3X can be selected for image overlay.
Side-by-Side Comparison Compare retouched copies to the original photographs. 1 Select [Side-by-side comparison]. Highlight [Side-by-side comparison] and press 2 to display a picture-selection dialog. 2 Select a picture. Use the multi selector to highlight a picture and press J. Only retouched copies (shown by a N icon) or photographs that have been retouched can be selected. To view the highlighted photograph full frame, press and hold the N button.
3 Compare the copy with the original. Options used to create copy The source image is displayed on the left, the retouched copy on the right, with the options used to create the copy listed at the top of the display. Press the multi selector in the Source Retouched image copy direction indicated by the arrow adjacent to the highlighted image (1 3 4 or 2) to switch between the source image and the retouched copy. To view the highlighted picture full frame, press and hold the N button.
O My Menu: Creating a Custom Menu The [My Menu] option can be used to create and edit a customized list of options from the playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, and retouch menus for quick access (up to 20 items). If desired, recent settings can be displayed in place of My Menu (pg. 380). Options can be added, deleted, and reordered as described below. For information on basic menu operations, see “Tutorial: Camera Menus” (pg. 26). Adding Options to My Menu 1 Select [Add items].
4 Position the new item. Press 1 or 3 to move the new item up or down in My Menu. Press J to add the new item. 5 Add more items. The items currently displayed in My Menu are indicated by a check mark. Items indicated by a V icon can not be selected. Repeat steps 1–4 to select additional items.
Deleting Options from My Menu 1 Select [Remove items]. In My Menu (O), highlight [Remove items] and press 2. 2 Select items. Highlight items and press 2 to select or deselect. Selected items are indicated by a check mark. 3 Select [Done]. Highlight [Done] and press J. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. 4 Delete the selected items. Press J to delete the selected items. U A Deleting Items in My Menu To delete the item currently highlighted in My Menu, press the O button.
Reordering Options in My Menu 1 Select [Rank items]. In My Menu (O), highlight [Rank items] and press 2. 2 Select an item. Highlight the item you wish to move and press J. 3 Position the item. Press 1 or 3 to move the item up or down in My Menu and press J. Repeat Steps 2–3 to reposition additional items. U A Reordering Items in My Menu The item currently highlighted in My Menu can be moved up or down by pressing the N button and pressing 1 or 3. Release the N button when the operation is complete.
Displaying Recent Settings To display the twenty most recently used settings, select [Recent settings] for [My Menu] > [Choose tab]. 1 Select [Choose tab]. In My Menu (O), highlight [Choose tab] and press 2. 2 Select [Recent Settings]. Highlight [Recent settings] and press J. The name of the menu will change from “MY MENU” to “RECENT SETTINGS.” Menu items will be added to the top of the recent settings menu as they are used. To view My Menu again, select [My Menu] for [Recent settings] > [Choose tab].
nTechnical Notes – Camera Care, Options, and Resources This chapter covers the following topics: Compatible Lenses......................................................... pg. 382 Other Accessories........................................................... pg. 387 Caring for the Camera ................................................... pg. 395 Storage .............................................................................................. pg. 395 Cleaning.............................................
Compatible Lenses Camera setting CPU lenses 1 Lens/accessory Type G or D AF Nikkor 2 AF-S, AF-I Nikkor PC-E NIKKOR series PC Micro 85mm f/2.
9 When focusing at minimum focus distance with AF 80–200mm f/2.8, AF 35– 70mm f/2.8, AF 28–85mm f/3.5–4.5 , or AF 28–85mm f/3.5–4.5 lens at maximum zoom, in-focus indicator may be displayed when image on matte screen in viewfinder is not in focus. Adjust focus manually until image in viewfinder is in focus. 10 With maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster. 11 Some lenses can not be used (see page 384). 12 Range of rotation for AI 80–200mm f/2.8 ED tripod mount is limited by camera body.
D Incompatible Accessories and Non-CPU Lenses The following accessories and non-CPU lenses can NOT be used with the D3X: • TC-16AS AF teleconverter • Non-AI lenses • Lenses that require the AU-1 focusing unit (400mm f/4.5, 600mm f/5.6, 800mm f/8, 1200mm f/11) • Fisheye (6mm f/5.6, 7.5mm f/5.6, 8mm f/8, OP 10mm f/5.6) • 2.1cm f/4 • Extension Ring K2 • 180–600mm f/8 ED (serial numbers 174041–174180) • 360–1200mm f/11 ED (serial numbers 174031–174127) • 200–600mm f/9.
A The AF-S/AF-I Teleconverter The AF-S/AF-I teleconverter can be used with the following AF-S and AF-I lenses: • • • • • • • • • • • AF-S VR Micro 105mm f/2.8G ED 1 AF-S VR 200mm f/2G ED AF-S VR 300mm f/2.8G ED AF-S 300mm f/2.8D ED II AF-S 300mm f/2.8D ED AF-I 300mm f/2.8D ED AF-S 300mm f/4D ED 2 AF-S 400mm f/2.8D ED II AF-S 400mm f/2.8D ED AF-I 400mm f/2.
A Picture Angle and Focal Length The D3X can be used with Nikon lenses for 35mm (135) format cameras. If [Auto DX crop] is on (the default setting) and a 35mm format lens is attached, the picture angle will be the same as a frame of 35mm film (35.9 × 24.0 mm); if a DX lens is attached, the picture angle will automatically be adjusted to 23.6 × 15.7 mm (DX format).
Other Accessories At the time of writing, the following accessories were available for the D3X. Power sources Wireless LAN adapters • Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4a, EN-EL4 (pp. 32, 34): Additional EN-EL4a/EN-EL4 batteries are available from local retailers and Nikon service representatives. These batteries can be recharged and calibrated using an MH-22 or MH-21 quick charger. • Quick Charger MH-22, MH-21 (pp.
• Focusing Screens (pg. 396): The focusing screens available for the D3X are listed below. Type B Brite View A type B focusing screen is supplied with the clear-matte VI focusing camera. screen Type E focusing screens are etched with a grid, Type E making them suitable clear-matte for copying and architectural VI focusing Viewfinder screen photography. Best eyepiece results are achieved with accessories PC-Nikkor lenses. • Magnifier DG-2: The DG-2 magnifies the scene displayed in the viewfinder.
• Diopter-adjustment viewfinder lenses: To accommodate individual differences in vision, viewfinder lenses are available with diopters of –3, –2, 0, +1, and +2 m–1 (values with camera diopter control centered at –1 m–1). Use diopter adjustment lenses only if the desired focus can not be achieved with the built-in diopter adjustment control (–3 to +1 m–1). Test diopter adjustment lenses before purchase to ensure that the desired focus can be achieved. The DK-17C is equipped with a safety lock.
• Nikon filters can be divided into three types: screw-in, slip-in, and rear-interchange. Use Nikon filters; filters manufactured by other makers may interfere with autofocus or electronic range finding. • The D3X can not be used with linear polarizing filters. Use the C-PL circular polarizing filter instead. • Use NC and L37C filters to protect the lens.
Software • Capture NX 2: A complete photo editing package with such advanced editing features as selection control points and an auto retouch brush. • Camera Control Pro 2: Control the camera remotely from a computer and save photographs directly to the computer hard disk. • Image Authentication: Determine whether photographs taken with image authentication on have been modified after shooting. Note: Use the latest versions of Nikon software.
The D3X is equipped with a ten-pin remote terminal for remote control and automatic photography. The terminal is provided with a cap, which protects the contacts when the terminal is not in use. The following accessories can be used (all lengths are approximate): • Remote Cord MC-22: Remote shutter release with blue, yellow, and black terminals for connection to a remote shuttertriggering device, allowing control via sound or electronic signals (length 1 m /3 ft. 3 in.).
• Adapter Cord MC-25: Ten-pin to two-pin adapter cord for connection to devices with two-pin terminals, including the MW-2 radio control set, MT-2 intervalometer, and ML-2 modulite control set (length 20 cm /8 in.). • GPS Adapter Cord MC-35 (pg. 221): Connects GPS devices to D3X Remote via PC cable supplied by manufacturer of GPS device, terminal allowing latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal accessories Time (UTC, pg. 224), and heading to be recorded with photographs (length 35 cm /14 in.).
❚❚ Approved Memory Cards The following cards have been tested and approved for use in the D3X: SanDisk Lexar Media Extreme IV SDCFX4 Extreme III SDCFX3 Ultra II SDCFH Standard SDCFB 8 GB 4 GB 2 GB 8 GB 4 GB 2 GB 1 GB 8 GB 4 GB 2 GB 1 GB 4 GB 2 GB 1 GB Professional UDMA Platinum II Professional Microdrive DSCM-11000 3K4-2 3K4-4 3K6 8 GB 4 GB 2 GB 2 GB 80 × 1 GB 512 MB 60 × 4 GB 8 GB 4 GB 133 × WA 2 GB 1 GB 2 GB 80 × Lt 512 MB 300 × 1 GB 2 GB 4 GB 6 GB Other cards have not been tested.
Caring for the Camera Storage When the camera will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery, and store the battery in a cool, dry area with the terminal cover in place. To prevent mold or mildew, store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Replacing the Focusing Screen A type B clear-matte VI focusing screen is inserted in the camera at shipment. To insert an optional type E clear-matte VI focusing screen for D3X cameras (pg. 388): 1 Remove the lens. Turn the camera off and remove the lens. 2 Unlatch the screen holder. Using the tweezers supplied with the focusing screen, pull the focusing screen latch towards you. The screen holder will spring open. 3 Remove the existing screen.
5 Latch the screen holder. Push the front edge of holder upward until it clicks into place. D Replacing Focusing Screens Do not touch the surface of the mirror or focusing screens. A Framing Grids The display in type E focusing screens may be slightly out of position depending on how the focusing screen is placed.
Replacing the Clock Battery The camera clock is powered by a CR1616 lithium battery with a life of about four years. If the B icon is displayed in the top control panel while the exposure meters are on, the battery is running low and needs to be replaced. When the battery is exhausted, the B icon will blink while the exposure meters are on. Photographs can still be taken but will not be stamped with the correct time and date, and interval timer photography will not function correctly.
5 Close the clock battery chamber. Slide the clock battery chamber cover towards the back of the main battery chamber until it clicks into place. 6 Replace the main battery. Reinsert the EN-EL4a. 7 Set the camera clock. Set the camera to the current date and time (pg. 40). Until the date and time have been set, the B icon will flash in the top control panel. ACAUTION Use only CR1616 lithium batteries. Using another type of battery could cause an explosion. Dispose of used batteries as directed.
The Low-Pass Filter The image sensor that acts as the camera’s picture element is fitted with a low-pass filter to prevent moiré. If you suspect that dirt or dust on the filter is appearing in photographs, you can clean the filter as described below. Note, however, that the filter is extremely delicate and easily damaged. Nikon recommends that the filter be cleaned only by Nikon-authorized service personnel. 1 Charge the battery or connect an AC adapter.
4 Raise the mirror. Press the shutter-release button all the way down. The mirror will be raised and the shutter curtain will open, revealing the low-pass filter. The display in the viewfinder will turn off and the row of dashes in the top control panel will blink. 5 Examine the low-pass filter. Holding the camera so that light falls on the low-pass filter, examine the filter for dust or lint. If no foreign objects are present, proceed to Step 7. 6 Clean the filter.
D Use a Reliable Power Source The shutter curtain is delicate and easily damaged. If the camera powers off while the mirror is raised, the curtain will close automatically. To prevent damage to the curtain, observe the following precautions: • Do not turn the camera off or remove or disconnect the power source while the mirror is raised.
Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions Do not drop: The product may malfunction if subjected to strong shocks or vibration. Keep dry: This product is not waterproof, and may malfunction if immersed in water or exposed to high levels of humidity. Rusting of the internal mechanism can cause irreparable damage. Avoid sudden changes in temperature: Sudden changes in temperature, such as occur when entering or leaving a heated building on a cold day, can cause condensation inside the device.
Cleaning: When cleaning the camera body, use a blower to gently remove dust and lint, then wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. After using the camera at the beach or seaside, wipe off any sand or salt using a cloth lightly dampened in pure water and then dry the camera thoroughly. In rare instances, static electricity may cause the LCD displays to light up or go dark. This does not indicate a malfunction, and the display will soon return to normal. The lens and mirror are easily damaged.
Turn the product off before removing or disconnecting the power source: Do not unplug the product or remove the battery while the product is on or while images are being recorded or deleted. Forcibly cutting power in these circumstances could result in loss of data or in damage to product memory or internal circuitry. To prevent an accidental interruption of power, avoid carrying the product from one location to another while the AC adapter is connected.
Batteries: Dirt on the battery terminals can prevent the camera from functioning and should be removed with a soft, dry cloth before use. Batteries may leak or explode if improperly handled. Observe the following precautions when handling batteries: Turn the product off before replacing the battery. The battery may become hot when used for extended periods. Observe due caution when handling the battery. Use only batteries approved for use in this equipment.
Troubleshooting If the camera fails to function as expected, check the list of common problems below before consulting your retailer or Nikon representative. Refer to the page numbers in the right-most column for more information. ❚❚ Display Problem Solution Page Adjust viewfinder focus or use Viewfinder is out of focus. 47, 389 optional diopter adjustment lenses. Viewfinder is dark. Insert a fully-charged battery.
❚❚ Shooting Problem Solution Camera takes time to turn Delete files or folders. on. • Memory card is full or not inserted. • CPU lens with aperture ring attached but aperture not locked at highest f-number. If B is displayed in the top control panel, Shutter-release disabled. select [Aperture ring] for Custom Setting f7 ([Customize command dials]) > [Aperture setting] to use lens aperture ring to adjust aperture. • Exposure mode S selected with A selected for shutter speed.
Problem Full range of shutter speeds not available. Solution Flash in use. Flash sync speed can be selected using Custom Setting e1 ([Flash sync speed]); when using optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 Speedlight, choose [1/250 s (Auto FP)] for full range of shutter speeds. Page 326 Focus does not lock when Camera is in focus mode C: use AE-L/ shutter-release button is 81 AF-L button to lock focus. pressed halfway. Image size can not be [Image quality] set to [NEF (RAW)]. 70 changed.
Problem Randomly-spaced bright pixels (“noise”) appear in photos. Photos are blotched or smeared. Colors are unnatural. Solution Page • Choose lower ISO sensitivity or 104, 300 turn high ISO noise reduction on. • Shutter speed is slower than 8 s: 300 use long exposure noise reduction. • Clean lens. — 400 • Clean low-pass filter. • Adjust white balance to match 140 light source. • Adjust [Set Picture Control] 162 settings. Can not measure white Subject is too dark or too bright. balance.
Problem Effects of Picture Control differ from image to image. Metering can not be changed. Exposure compensation can not be used. Reddish areas appear in photos. Textures are uneven. Solution “A” (auto) is selected for sharpening, contrast, or saturation. For consistent results over a series of photographs, choose a setting other than “A” (auto). Page Autoexposure lock is in effect. 127 Choose exposure mode e, f, or g. 128 Reddish areas and uneven textures may appear in long timeexposures.
❚❚ Playback Problem Flashing areas appear in images. Shooting data appear on images. A graph appears during playback. NEF (RAW) image is not played back. Some photos are not displayed during playback. “Tall” (portrait) orientation photos are displayed in “wide” (landscape) orientation. Can not delete photo. Message is displayed stating that no images are available for playback. Can not change print order. n 412 Solution Press 1 or 3 to choose photo information displayed.
Problem Photo is not displayed on highdefinition video device. Can not copy photos to computer. Photos not displayed in Capture NX 2. Can not use Camera Control Pro 2. Computer displays NEF (RAW) images differently from camera. Solution Page Confirm that HDMI cable (available separately) is connected. 276 Choose correct [USB] option. 257 Update software to latest version. 391 Set [USB] to [MTP/PTP].
Error Messages This section lists the indicators and error messages that appear in the viewfinder, top control panel, and monitor. Indicator Control Viewpanel finder B (blinks) H d Problem Lens aperture ring is not set to minimum aperture. Low battery. H d Battery exhausted. (blinks) (blinks) Replace battery. d Battery can not be G (blinks) (blinks) used. Contact Nikonauthorized service representative. B (blinks) — Camera clock is not set. Set camera clock.
Indicator Control Viewpanel finder q Problem Subject too bright; photo will be overexposed. Solution • Use a lower ISO sensitivity. • Use optional ND filter.
Indicator Control Viewpanel finder Solution Page • Use a higher ISO 104 sensitivity. • Use optional flash. In 187 exposure mode: Subject too dark; photo f Lower shutter 116 r will be underexposed. speed g Choose a larger 118 aperture (smaller f-number) Change shutter speed A A selected in or select manual 116, 120 (blinks) exposure mode f. exposure mode. Optional flash unit that Change flash mode c does not support i-TTL setting on optional 191 (blinks) flash control attached flash unit.
Indicator Control Viewpanel finder Problem Flash unit that does not support red-eye Y — reduction attached and (blinks) flash sync mode set to red-eye reduction. Memory insufficient to record further photos A g at current settings, or (blinks) (blinks) camera has run out of file or folder numbers. O (blinks) Camera malfunction. Solution Page Change flash sync mode or use flash unit that supports red-eye reduction. 189 • Reduce quality or size. • Delete photographs. • Insert new memory card.
Indicator Control Monitor panel Problem Camera cannot S detect memory card. • Error accessing memory card. Solution Page Turn camera off and No memory confirm that card is 42 card. correctly inserted. • Use Nikon394 This memory approved card. • Check that contacts card cannot — be used. are clean. If card is Card may be damaged, contact (blinks) damaged. retailer or Nikon Insert another representative. • Unable to create • Delete files or insert 42, 281 card. new folder. new memory card.
Indicator Control Monitor panel Folder contains no images. — All images are hidden. — File does not contain image data. — Cannot select this file — Problem Solution Page Select folder No images on containing images memory card or in from [Playback folder] 42, 281 folder(s) selected menu or insert for playback. different memory card. No images can be played back until another folder has All photos in been selected or 281 current folder are [Hide image] used to hidden.
Indicator Control Monitor panel Check printer. — Check paper. — Paper jam. — Out of paper. — Check ink supply. — Out of ink. — Problem Solution Check printer. To resume, select Printer error. [Continue] (if available). Insert paper of Paper in printer is correct size and select not of selected size. [Continue]. Paper is jammed in Clear jam and select printer. [Continue]. Insert paper of Printer is out of selected size and paper. select [Continue]. Check ink. To resume, Ink error.
Appendix The Appendix covers the following topics: • Defaults ................................................................................................ pg. 422 • Memory Card Capacity ................................................................. pg. 427 • Exposure Program .......................................................................... pg.
Defaults The following defaults are restored either with a two-button reset or using [Reset shooting menu] or [Reset custom settings]. ❚❚ Defaults Restored with a Two-Button Reset (pg. 204) 1 Option [ISO sensitivity] (pg. 104) [Image quality] (pg. 66) Shooting [Image size] (pg. 70) menu 2 [White balance] (pg. 140) Fine tuning (pg. 143) [Choose color temp.] (pg. 147) Focus point (pg. 78) Exposure mode (pg. 112) Flexible program (pg. 115) Shutter speed and aperture lock (pg. 123) Other AE lock hold (pg.
❚❚ Defaults Restored with [Reset Shooting Menu] (pg. 293) 1 Option [File naming] (pg. 296) [Slot 2] (pg. 72) [Image quality] (pg. 66) [Image size] (pg. 70) [Image area] (pg. 60) [Auto DX crop] (pg. 60) [Choose image area] (pg. 61) [JPEG compression] (pg. 68) [NEF (RAW) recording] (pg. 69) [Type] (pg. 69) [NEF (RAW) bit depth] (pg. 69) [White balance] (pg. 140) Fine tuning (pg. 143) [Choose color temp.] (pg. 147) [Set Picture Control] (pg. 162) [Color space] (pg. 183) [Active D-Lighting] (pg.
❚❚ Defaults Restored with [Reset Custom Settings] (pg. 304) * a1 a2 a3 a4 a5 a6 a7 a8 a9 a10 b1 b2 b3 b4 b5 b6 c1 c2 c3 c4 Option [AF-C priority selection] (pg. 305) [AF-S priority selection] (pg. 306) [Dynamic AF area] (pg. 307) [Focus tracking with lock-on] (pg. 309) [AF activation] (pg. 309) [Focus point illumination] (pg. 310) [Manual focus mode] [Continuous mode] [Focus point brightness] [Focus point wrap-around] (pg. 311) [AF point selection] (pg. 311) [AF-ON button] (pg.
Option d1 [Beep] (pg. 320) [Shooting speed] (pg. 321) d2 [Continuous high-speed] [Continuous low-speed] d3 [Max. continuous release] (pg. 321) d4 [File number sequence] (pg. 322) [Control panel/viewfinder] (pg. 323) d5 [Rear control panel] [Viewfinder display] d6 [Shooting info display] (pg. 324) d7 [LCD illumination] (pg. 325) d8 [Exposure delay mode] (pg. 325) e1 [Flash sync speed] (pg. 326) e2 [Flash shutter speed] (pg. 327) e3 [Modeling flash] (pg. 327) e4 [Auto bracketing set] (pg.
Option [Multi selector center button] (pg. 331) [Shooting mode] f1 [Playback mode] [Live view] f2 [Multi selector] (pg. 332) f3 [Photo info/playback] (pg. 332) [Assign FUNC. button] (pg. 333) [FUNC. button press] f4 [FUNC. button+dials] f5 f6 f7 f8 f9 f10 n 426 [Assign preview button] (pg. 339) [Preview button press] [Preview+command dials] [Assign AE-L/AF-L button] (pg. 340) [AE-L/AF-L button press] [AE-L/AF-L+command dials] [Customize command dials] (pg. 341) [Reverse rotation] (pg.
Memory Card Capacity The following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on a 4 GB SanDisk Extreme IV (SDCFX4) card at different image quality, image size, and image area settings.
❚❚ DX Format (24 × 16) Image Area Image quality NEF (RAW), Lossless compressed, 12-bit NEF (RAW), Lossless compressed, 14-bit NEF (RAW), Compressed, 12-bit NEF (RAW), Compressed, 14-bit NEF (RAW), Uncompressed, 12-bit NEF (RAW), Uncompressed, 14-bit TIFF (RGB) JPEG fine 3 JPEG normal 3 JPEG basic 3 n 428 Image size File size 1 No. of images 1 Buffer capacity 2 — 12.1 MB 229 32 — 15.5 MB 176 52 — 10.1 MB 313 38 — 12.9 MB 260 83 — 17.0 MB 229 29 — 22.
1 All figures are approximate. File size varies with scene recorded. 2 Maximum number of exposures that can be stored in memory buffer at ISO 100. Drops if [Optimal quality] is selected for [JPEG compression], ISO sensitivity is set to P or higher, [High ISO NR] is on when auto ISO sensitivity control is on or ISO sensitivity is set to 500 or higher, or long exposure noise reduction, active D-Lighting or image authentication is on. 3 Figures assume [JPEG compression] is set to [Size priority].
Exposure Program The exposure program for programmed auto is shown in the following graph: 12 14 f/1 13 11 9 10 8 7 5 6 3 2 4 0 1 -1 -3 -2 ] V [E -4 ISO 100; lens with maximum aperture of f/1.4 and minimum aperture of f/16 (e.g., AF 50mm f/1.4 D) 16 15 f/1.4 16 17 18 19 f/5.6 f/8 20 f/2.8 f/4 f/1.
Specifications ❚❚ Nikon D3X Digital Camera Type Type Single-lens reflex digital camera Lens mount Nikon F mount (with AF coupling and AF contacts) Effective pixels Effective pixels 24.5 million Image sensor Image sensor 35.9 × 24.0 mm CMOS sensor (Nikon FX format) Total pixels 25.
Storage Double slot Slot 2 can be used for overflow or backup storage or for separate storage of NEF (RAW) and JPEG images File system DCF (Design Rule for Camera File System) 2.0, DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), Exif 2.21 (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital Still Cameras), PictBridge Viewfinder Viewfinder Eye-level pentaprism single-lens reflex viewfinder Frame coverage • FX format: Approx. 100% horizontal and 100% vertical • DX format: Approx.
Shutter Type Electronically-controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter Speed 1/8000 – Flash sync speed X= 1/250 s; synchronizes with shutter at 1/250 s or slower 30 s in steps of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV, bulb, X250 Release Release mode S (single frame), CL (continuous low speed), CH (continuous high speed), a (live view), E (self-timer), MUP (mirror up) Frame advance rate • DX format (24 × 16): Up to 5 fps (CL) or 5–7 fps (CH) • Other image areas: Up to 5 fps Self-timer Can be selected from 2, 5,
Exposure White balance bracketing 2–9 frames in steps of 1, 2, or 3 Exposure lock Luminosity locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L button ISO sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) ISO 100 – 1600 in steps of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV. Can also be set to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, or 1 EV (ISO 50 equivalent) below ISO 100 or to approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1, or 2 EV (ISO 6400 equivalent) above ISO 1600.
Flash Flash-ready indicator Lights when Speedlight such as SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, SB-80DX, SB-28DX, or SB-50DX is fully charged; blinks after flash is fired at full output Accessory shoe ISO 518 hot shoe with sync and data contacts and safety lock Nikon Creative Lighting Advanced Wireless Lighting supported with SB-900, System (CLS) SB-800, or SU-800 as commander and SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 as remotes; Auto FP High-Speed Sync and modeling illumination supported with all CLS-compatibl
Interface HDMI output Type A HDMI connector; camera monitor turns off when HDMI cable is connected Ten-pin remote terminal Can be used to connect optional remote control, GP-1 GPS unit, or GPS device compliant with NMEA0183 version 2.01 or 3.
Calibrating Batteries The MH-22 quick charger is equipped with a battery calibration feature. Calibrate the battery as required to ensure the accuracy of the camera and charger battery level displays. If the calibration lamp for the current battery chamber blinks when a battery is inserted, the battery needs to be calibrated. To begin calibration, press the calibration button for the current chamber for about a second.
D Battery Warning If the chamber and calibration lamps flash on and off in sequence when no battery is inserted, there is a problem with the charger. If the chamber and calibration lamps flash on and off in sequence when a battery is inserted, a problem has occurred with the battery or charger during charging. Remove the battery, unplug the charger, and take the battery and charger to a Nikon-authorized service representative for inspection.
MH-22 quick charger Rated input Rated output Supported batteries Charging time per battery AC 100–240 V (50/60 Hz) DC 12.6 V/1,200 mA Nikon EN-EL4a/EN-EL4 rechargeable Li-ion batteries Approx. 2 hours and 25 minutes (EN-EL4a) or 1 hour and 40 minutes (EN-EL4) when battery is fully discharged Operating temperature 0–40 °C (+32–104 °F) Dimensions (W × H × D) Approx. 160 × 85 × 50.5 mm (6.3 × 3.3 × 2.0 in.) Length of cord Approx. 1800 mm (5 ft. 11 in.) Weight Approx. 260 g (9.1 oz.
A Supported Standards • DCF Version 2.0: The Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF) is a standard widely used in the digital camera industry to ensure compatibility among different makes of camera. • DPOF: Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) is an industry-wide standard that allows pictures to be printed from print orders stored on the memory card. • Exif version 2.21: The camera supports Exif (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital Still Cameras) version 2.
A Battery Life The number of shots that can be taken with a fully-charged EN-EL4a battery (2,500 mAh) varies with the condition of the battery, temperature, and how the camera is used. Sample figures are given below. • CIPA standard: Approximately 4,400 shots. Measured at 23 °C/73.4 °F (±2 °C/ 3.6 °F) with an AF-S NIKKOR 24–70mm f/2.8G ED lens under the following test conditions: lens cycled from infinity to minimum range and one photograph taken at default settings once every 30 s. Live view not used.
Index Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).
Battery, xviii–xix, 32–36, 406 [Battery info], 355 [Beep], 320 Body cap, 4, 37, 391 Bracketing, 130, 328, 329 exposure, 130, 328 flash, 130, 328 white balance, 130, 135, 328 [Bracketing order], 330 Bulb, 122 Burst, 89, 321, 334 C C, 74, 305 Calibrating, 437 calibration, 355, 437 charging, 32 info, 355 Camera Control Pro 2, 256, 391 Capture NX 2, 66, 353, 391 Center-weighted, 110, 316, 317 [Center-weighted area], 316 Clock, 40, 41 CLS, 186 [Color balance], 370 [Color space], 183 [Adobe RGB], 183 [sRGB], 183
Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).
[FX format (36x24)], 61 Image area, 38, 60, 70, 297 [Image authentication], 356 [Image comment], 350 Image Dust Off, 353 [Image overlay], 371 [Image quality], 66 Image quality, 66 [Image review], 287 [Image size], 70 Image size, 70 [Index print], 271 In-focus indicator, 55, 74, 84, 305, 306 Information, 14, 229, 324 [Interval timer shooting], 211 Interval timer shooting, 211 [ISO sensitivity], 104 [ISO sensitivity auto control], 106 [Maximum sensitivity], 106 [Minimum shutter speed], 106 [ISO sensitivity se
Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).
[Reset custom settings], 304 [Reset shooting menu], 293 [Reverse indicators], 345 RGB color space, 184 RGB histogram, 232, 282 [Rotate tall], 287 S S (single-point AF), 76 S (single-servo AF), 74, 80 S (small), 70 [Save/load settings], 358 Saving camera settings, 358 [Self-timer delay], 319 Sensitivity, 103 [Set Picture Control], 164 [Monochrome], 164 [Filter effects], 167, 169 [Toning], 167, 169 [Neutral], 164 [Standard], 164 [Vivid], 164 Setup menu, 346 Shooting data, 234, 235, 236, 237 [Shooting info dis
Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]). [Choose color temp.
DIGITAL CAMERA User's Manual No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorization from NIKON CORPORATION.
