Nikon INSTRUCTION MANUAL
CONTENTS FOREWORD ............................................. .. ........ .. .. ... ............. .4 NOMENCLATURE .... ...................................................5- 10 BASIC OPERATION ................. . ... ...... ............. 11 -26 MOUNTING THE LENS ............... .. ........................... .... .. ........ .. 12 INSTALLING BATIERIES ............ .. ......... .. ................................. 13 CHECKING BATIERY POWER ............................................. 14- 15 LOADING FILM ..
LONG TIME EXPOSURE-Using bul b setting .................. 98-99 TO USE NON-DX-CODED FILM .. .. .. ..................... ................... 100 INTERCHANGING FOCUSING SCREENS .. ......................... 101-1 02 LENSES ........................ .. ... .. .. .... ..... ... .. ..................... 103-1 06 LENS COMPATIBILITY CHART ........................................ 104-1 06 FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY ..................................... 107 -126 NIKON SPEEDLIGHT COMPATIBILITY ..... .. .... ...................
FOREWORD Thank you for choosing the new Nikon N90 camera. It's a high-performance camera that offers today's newest and most advanced capabilities, all designed to enable you to take more exciting pictures. Because the N90 camera has a host of new features, many of which you may not be familiar with, before actually taking pictures you should thoroughly read the instruction manuals provided, including the "PHOTOGRAPHIC SYSTEM" leaflet.
NOMENCLATURE Once you know the names of the parts of your new Nikon N90, as well as their functions and the camera's other controls, you will be surprised how simple and logical the N90 system's operation can be.
LCD panel (p. 9) Accessory shoe: For Nikon dedicated Speedlights. The rear edge of the shoe indicates film plane. Exact distance from lens mounting flange to film plane is 46.5mm. Shutter release button: To activate exposure meter and autofocus function , lightly press; to release shutter, depress fully; exposure meter automatically switches off after 8 sec. Sync terminal 10-pin remote terminal: For Electronic Organizer Connecting Cord MC-27, Remote Cord MC-20, etc.
Eyepiece shutter lever: Used to prevent stray light from entering viewfinder. Viewfinder/LCD panel illumination button: Press to illuminate viewfinder and LCD panel, useful in dim light. Illumination automatically switches off 8 sec. after you remove your finger from button. AE-L (Auto Exposure Lock) lever: Sliding and holding lever in locks auto exposure.
Reset button: Press and hold this button and exposure compensation/ reset button together for instant reset of basic camera settings (p. 20) Exposure mode (MODE) button' : See page 54. Vari-Program (ps) button' : See pages 70-71 . Metering system (:·:)button': See page 32. Film rewind button Exposure compensation/ reset button (. ~) ' : See pages 20 and 92. Power switch: 0'11 setting activates electronic beeper (pp. 14-15). Flash sync mode (~) button': See pages 121,123 and 125.
7 6 8 DDDLFC D Lf Lf Lf Lf Lf.Lf ,..,xLH- 2 ---h~ 34 -+"""""",= ,=,-:-::=-~J--=~- 5 -~~~.; 9 l0 I--Itll-+- 11 12 fillT,07il'''-I-_ 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 LCD panel indications 1. Focus area 2. Exposure mode 3. Metering system Film speed setting mode Exposure compensation Shutter speed Autofocus Aperture Release/Focus priority Flash sync mode/Red-Eye Reduction 11. Manual focus 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 12. Electronic Organizer* 13. Custom* 14. Battery 15. Film advance mode 16.
Viewfinder indication 2 1. Wide-Area focus brackets 2. 12mm-dia. reference circle for CenterWeighted Metering 3. 3mm dia. reference circle for Spot Metering/ Spot-Area focus 4. Clear matte field 5. Focus area 6. Focus indicators: • indicates a stationary subject is in focus; .... indicates a moving subject is in focus; ~ ~ shows Focus Tracking; blinking ~ ~ indicates autofocus is impossible; ~ and ~ arrows indicate front and rear focus , respectively. 10 3 4 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
BASIC OPERATION This section shows you how to prepare the camera for shootinge.g., how to mount lens, load film , etc.-as well as how to actually take pictures. Whether you ' re a beginner or a seasoned photographer, you should master this section before proceeding further.
MOUNTING THE LENS Position the lens in the camera's bayonet mount so that the mounting indexes on lens and camera body are aligned. Taking care not to press the lens release button, twist lens counterclockwise until it locks into place. 2 1 Remove camera body cap and front and rear lens caps. • When mounting/removing lens, make sure that the camera's power is turned off and avoid direct sunlight. • See page 104 for Nikon lens compatibility chart.
INSTALLING BATTERIES • Make sure the power switch is set at OFF position . • NiCd batteries that have "+" terminals exceeding 6mm in diameter cannot be used. • Manganese batteries are not recommended for use at low temperatures. • See page 133 for "NOTES ON BATTERIES." Install four AA-type alkalinemanganese, NiCd or highperformance manganese batteries with "+" and "-" terminals positioned as shown inside holder. 3 1 Loosen battery holder lock screw with a coin or similar object.
CHECKING BATTERY POWER About exposure meter Slide power switch to ON or 01)) position, and confirm that a full battery mark appears on LCD panel , indicating sufficient battery power.The battery mark and exposure indications automatically turn off after 8 sec. You can check battery power anytime by lightly pressing the shutter release button.
About electronic beeper With the power switch set to 0'1) ,the beeper is on. Two types of sound are emitted: a double-beep which indicates in-focus position, and continuous beeping which is either an operation signal or an alert. Double- beep A double-beep is emitted when a stationary subject becomes in-focus in the Single Servo AF mode' . Continuous beeping sound indicates: (As an operation signal) • Film rewind is complete. o Self-timer is activated (pp. 95-96).
LOADING FILM • To avoid fogging film (especially high-ISO film), do not load/ unload film in direct sunlight. • Usable film speed range for OX-coded film is ISO 25 to 5000. • For non-OX coded film, see p. 100. 1 Confirm whether [jJJ for OX-coded film is shown on the LCD panel. Data Link System users You can set the camera to OX-priority. For details, see AC-1 E card instruction manual. If not, press and hold ISO button in, then rotate command dial until [jJJ appears.
2 Slide camera back lock releases together to open camera back. 4 Pull film leader out to red index mark. Do not touch the shutter curtains with your finger or with film leader. 3 Insert film cartridge. 5 Check to ensure film is properly positioned with no slack (see illustration) .
6 Gently close camera back until lock releases snap closed. Fully depress shutter release button to advance film to frame #1. • If non-OX-coded film or film with an unacceptable OX code is loaded, the ISO and IDJ marks in the LCD 7 panel blink, the beeper sounds (if set), and the shutter is locked. Set ISO speed manually (see p. 100). E,.,. , Ir II-' :~5 f5.6 00 ~~ ~o c=:J loa ,:~ ~. Confirm frame counter shows I and symbol appears on LCD panel. 8 <.
BASIC SHOOTING This section features the settings for most common picture-taking situations when AF Nikkor* lenses are used: Rim advance mode: single-frame shooting Metering: Advanced Matrix Metering Focus Area: Wide Focus mode: Single Servo AF Exposure mode: Auto Multi-Program (If you are using AI-P-Nikkor lens, use manual focus {see pp. 46-48]. If you are using other non-AF Nikkor lenses, use Center-Weighted or Spot Metering {see p.
Data Link System users Press . reset button and .
MF-26 users Pressing the reset buttons also cancels the MF-26's following functions: Auto Exposure Bracketing Multiple Exposure Operation Auto Sequence Shooting Long Time Exposure Interval Timer Flash Exposure Bracketing Flash output level compensation Focus Priority With Nikon Autofocus 8peedlight 88-25 Pressing the reset buttons also resets the Speedlight's flash output compensation to O. 4 Hold camera, look through viewfinder and position focus brackets on main subject.
Lightly press shutter release button to start autofocus operation and switch exposure meter on . Confirm that the in-focus indicator . for a stationary subject or ~.~ for a moving subject appears on the viewfinder's LCD readout. Confirm , too, that the shutter speed and aperture indications are shown. Exposure readouts also appear in the camera's external LCD panel. In the Single Servo autofocus mode with Focus-Priority, the shutter cannot be released until . or ~.
If shutter speed indicated is 1/(lens focal length) sec. or slower, the picture may come out blurred. To avoid this, hold camera firmly or use a tripod. If H I appears in the shutter speed position-Overexposure alert: Use Nikon ND or similar filter. ~ If ~ mark in green appears-Flashphotography recommended: If available light is insufficient, ~ mark appears. Use Nikon TIL-type Speedlight.
To take picture, fully depress shutter release button. Camera automatically advances film by one frame, and LCD frame counter increases by one. 6 Shutter speed/aperture indications in LCD panel and inside viewfinder tum off approx. 2 sec. after you release shutter and take your finger off shutter release button.
REWINDING FILM eJ ~ Or!lF ~ Film advance stops automatically at end of rol l with End and Gl_ symbol in LCD panel blinking. (Audible beeper sounds if set.) At the end of fi lm roll, each time you press shutter release button, End and Gl_ blink and audible beeper sounds (if set), reminding you to rewind film. 1 Press ~ button and ~ button to start film rewind. During film rewind, Gl _ appears on LCD panel, and frame counter counts backwards until rewind is complete.
After rewind automatically stops, confirm frame counter blinks for a few shows E, and film installation symbol seconds. 3 e 4 Open camera back and remove film cartridge. To conserve battery power, turn off the power switch when you are not using the camera. Always remove batteries before storing a camera to prevent damage due to leaking batteries.
GENERAL FUNCTIONS This chapter explains the various modes of the N90 camera 's operation. Please review it thoroughly.
FILM ADVANCE MODE SINGLE-FRAME SHOOTING :e 5 fS.6 EJ~DWF [ :J (!) _ There are three automatic film advance modes. To choose a mode, press and hold the film advance mode button and rotate the command dial. Set I]] for single-frame shooting, Q!jL for continuous low-speed shooting or ~H for continuous highspeed shooting, and so on. 28
CONTINUOUS SHOOTING Ie'S FS.6 EJ~ Dr!1iF n m:I~ I ( ~HDe _ Ie'S FS.6 EJ~ Dr!1iF n &UlA Shots are taken continuously as long as you keep the shutter release button fully depressed. You have a choice of shooting speeds: approx. 3.6 fps (frames per second) in the ~H mode, and approx. 2.0 fps in the ~L mode-with fresh alkaline AAtype batteries at normal temperature and at shutter speeds higher than 1/250 sec. in the Manual exposure and Manual focus modes. With shutter speeds slower than 1/250 sec.
EXPOSURE METERING SYSTEM The Nikon N90 has three type of exposure metering systems- Matrix Metering, Center-Weighted Metering and Spot Metering . MATRIX METERING This system is ideal for quick operation in any exposure mode (pp. 49-66). With D-type AF Nikkor lenses including AF-I Nikkor, 3D Matrix Metering is automatically activated. 3D Matrix Metering uses three types of data: (1) scene brightness, (2) scene contrast and (3) focused subject's distance (Distance Information).
CENTER-WEIGHTED METERING SPOT METERING With 75% of the meter's sensitivity concentrated on the 12mmdia. circle in the viewfinder and 25% outside this circle, this meter becomes useful in situations where you want to base exposure on a specific area in the scene. In the auto exposure mode, to measure the brightness of the picture's off-center portion, use the camera's AE-L lever (pp. 88-89). Nearly 100% of the meter's sensitivity is concentrated on the 3mm circle in the center of the viewfinder.
SETIING METERING SYSTEM fS.6 I!II ( (:l _ II m:::::::J I!II ( (:l _ II _ m=:J Matrix Metering fS 6 "iBP P:;WF . Center-Weighted Metering _ Spot Metering While pressing the metering system (:':)button, rotate command dial until the desired symbol----G for Matrix Metering, ~ for Center-Weighted Metering or 8 for Spot Meteringappears in the LCD panel.
FOCUS FOCUS AREA IcS FS.6 eJ~f IilJ ( m=JEl _II __ 10 P :25 F5.o I Wide-Area Autofoeus The N90's autofocus system offers a choice of two focus areas: Wide and Spot. While pressing focus area button, rotate command dial until the desired symbol--E:2J for Wide Area or 0 for Spot Areaappears in the LCD panel. IcS FS.6 eJ~Df IilJ ( m=JEl _II __ l§€. P :25 F5.
The Wide-Area focus brackets delineate the focus detecting area in the viewfinder. Subjects of sufficient brightness and detail can be detected within these brackets. In addition to general photography, autofocus using Wide-Area focus brackets is suited to action photography in which the moving subject requires a wide-range focus detection area. However, focus detection may not be possible if the subject is too small to fully cover the Wide-Area focus brackets.
AUTOFOCUS The Nikon N90 has two autofocus modes, Single Servo AF with Focus-Priority and Continuous Servo AF with Release-Priority. In either autofocus mode and in any film advance mode, Focus Tracking automatically activates when the subject starts moving. Focus Tracking enables the camera to analyze the speed of the moving subject according to the focus data detected, and to obtain correct focus by anticipating the subject's position-and driving the lens to that position-at the exact moment of exposure.
:25 fS.6 eJ~ tt€9 ( IJ ~~_cffBI (j}J Stationary subject is in focus Single Servo AF with Focus-Priority For Single Servo AF with Focus-Priority, set the focus mode to S. You lightly press the shutter release button, the lens starts adjusting for focus. Because the p'riority is on correct focus, the shutter cannot be released until the subject is in focus. After focus is achieved, the focus remains locked for as long as the shutter release button is lightly pressed.
Moving subject is expected to be in focus W ith a moving subject: Lightly press the shutter release button. Focus Tracking is automatically activated with ~ • indication in the viewfinder. As soon as the subject is expected to be in focus , ~ • • appears, indicating that you can release shutter. If subject stops and . appears without ~ . , focus is locked. If subject moves again, remove your finger from the shutter release button and lightly press it again to start autofocus with Focus Tracking.
125 F5.6 eJ~ tt@ m:I ( 11 m=::J <:l_.". Stationary subject is in focus Continuous Servo AF with Release-Priority Under some conditions, such as very fast action situations, you may want to take a picture even if focus has not been successfully accomplished . In such cases , use this mode. Set focus mode to Cto use Continuous Servo AF with ReleasePriority.
• As focus is not locked in Continuous Servo AF, to take an off-center subject, use AF-L button. See pages 42 to 43 . • With a moving subject, depending on subject status and lens in use, slightly out-of-focus pictures may result. Moving suject is expected to be in focus With a moving subject: Lightly press the shutter release .. button and Focus Tracking is automatically activated with . indication . As soon as the subject is expected to be in focus , viewfinder shows ••• .
AUTOFOCUS WITH MAIN SUBJECT OFF CENTER In Single Servo AF mode As previously noted, in Single Servo autofocus, focus is locked as long as the shutter release button is kept lightly pressed. Use this feature for off-center subjects. In the following procedure, Spot-Area AF demonstration photos are used. • If there is substantial difference of brightness between subject and background, switch to Center-Weighted or Spot Metering and use AE-L lever. See pages 88 to 89.
2. Confirm in-focus indicator . appears (and In-Focus Signal beeps if set) in viewfinder. 3. Keeping the shutter release button lightly pressed, recompose, then fully depress shutter release button to take picture.
In Continuous Servo AF mode With an off-center subject, use AF-L button. In the following procedures, Spot-Area AF demonstration photos are used. 1. Position focus brackets on subject and lightly press shutter release button to start autofocus operation . MF-26 or Data Link System users The MF-26 enables you to set simultaneous lock of autofocus and auto exposure. For details, see MF-26's instruction manual.
2. Keeping shutter release button lightly pressed, confirm infocus indicator . appears in viewfinder. Then press and hold AF-L button to lock focus. Keep holding AF-L button until next step is completed. 3. While holding AF-L button in, recompose , then fully depress shutter release button to take picture.
SPECIAL FOCUSING SITUATIONS I ~C 1& :,'5 F5.6 :J A. Very dark subject Focus manually with clear matte field , or for autofocus, focus on another brighter subject located at same distance, then use focus lock (pp. 38-43). Or, use a Nikon autofocus Speed light to perform autofocus with Speedlight's AF illuminator. 44 I Autofocus operation depends on general lighting, subject contrast and detail, and other technical factors .
In the following situations, ignore in-focus indicator . or ~ • • . • Scene with subject located at different distances. (For example, when shooting a person over a fence or when shooting animals inside a cage) Use Spot Area for autofocus (page 34) or focus manually with clear matte field. • With an extremely bright object near your subject Use Spot Area for autofocus (page 34) or focus manually with clear matte field.
MANUAL FOCUS 125 fS.6 eJ~ ~ m:t ( Il ~ c:l_ offBiJ Manual focus with Electronic Rangefinder The Electronic Rangefinder enables you to see focus status with the viewfinder indications while you are manually focusing. It works with most Nikon lenses (including AF Nikkor when operated manually) which have a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster. (For a complete list of usable lenses, see LENS COMPATIBILITY CHART on p. 104). To focus manually, set the focus mode selector to M.
2. Keeping shutter release button lightly pressed, rotate lens focusing ring in direction indicated by focus-to-Ieft arrow ( ~ or focus-to-right arrow ( ~), until arrow disappears and infocus indicator . appears. If focus-to-Ieft arrow ( ~ does not disappear when you turn focus ring counterclockwise to the limit, subject is closer than the distance at which the lens is able to focus. Move back from subject. 3. Confirm in-focus indicator . appears, then fully depress shutter release button to take picture.
Manual focus using clear matte field Look through viewfinder and rotate lens focusing ring until image on clear matte field appears sharp.
EXPOSURE MODE Light reaching the film is controlled by shutter speed and lens aperture. The proper combination results in a correct exposure. Shutter speed and lens aperture settings are based on the ISO speed set for the film in use and the operation of the camera's exposure control system. The relationship between aperture and shutter speed is as follows: One change in shutter speed either doubles or halves the amount of light transmitted. For example, a shutter speed of 1/ 500 sec.
SELECTING EXPOSURE MODE Selecting the exposure control mode means deciding if you want the shutter speed and/or lens aperture to be set automatically or manually. The Nikon N90 camera offers two types of programmed auto exposure modes, Auto Multi-Program (p) and Vari-Program (P,) , as well as Shutter-Priority Auto (5), Aperture-Priority Auto (Aj, and Manual (M) exposure modes.
Program chart of Auto Multi-Program To check shutter speed and aperture values, follow either the black or red line to where it intersects the diagonal line. Auto Multi-Program chart (ISO 100) ~ > ~ ~ ~ ~ , ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / ,-"> til V/ / V/ / 2.8 V / / V/ / / / 5.6 k'" V/ / V/ / 11 16 V V / 22 V V / 32 V / / 1.4 Sec.
Shutter- Priority Auto exposure mode Manual exposure mode You manually set the shutter speed you want. To freeze the action, use a high shutter speed; to create motion effects, choose a slower shutter speed. The N90's microcomputer automatically sets the proper aperture to match the manually selected shutter speed for correct exposure. See pp. 56-59 for Shutter-Priority Auto operation.
Pictures taken at different shutter speeds Pictures taken at different apertures High shutter speed Wide aperture Slow shutter speed Narrow aperture 53
SETTING EXPOSURE MODE mH----~~~T/In~ 10.• p 10 P 1,'5 FS.E. While pressing MODE button, rotate command dial. The exposure mode changes as in the following sequence: P Auto Multi-Program _ t M Manual , 5 Shutter-Priority Auto fl Aperture-Priority Auto To activate Vari-Program, use Ps button. For details, see pp. 67-85.
FLEXIBLE PROGRAM If you want to change the shutter speed/aperture combination of Auto Multi-Program. use the Flexible Program function. Flexible Program enables you to temporarily change an automatically set shutter speed/aperture combination in 1 EV steps. while maintaining the correct exposure. , 0 --)~:{60 Fa) II I 2. Turn command dial until desired shutter speed or aperture 1. Lightly press shutter release button. value appears in viewfinder and in LCD panel.
OPERATION IN SHUTTER-PRIORITY AUTO EXPOSURE MODE nnr-=~~~TT~~ FS.S 1. Set lens to its minimum aperture setting (highest f-number). With AF Nikkor and AI-P Nikkor lenses, lock lens aperture at minimum setting (refer to lens instruction manual). 2. While pressing MODE button, rotate command dial until "5 " appears on LCD panel and viewfinder.
:J I 3. Remove finger from MODE button, and rotate command dial to select desired shutter speed . Shutter speed indication changes one step at a time in the following sequence: 3~'' IS" B" 'i" COO I" 1000 cOOO 'iOOO BODO c 'i B 4. Look inside viewfinder, compose and lightly press shutter release button. Confirm the automatically set aperture value.
60 (M 11 SJ~ O!ill)-' [jJJ ( m=:J El _:J _ 500 SJ~ O' m=:J El _:J _ [jJJ ( If H : appears in the aperture position with electronic analog display*-Overexposure alert**: Select higher shutter speed or use Nikon NO filter. If l 0 appears in the aperture position with electronic analog display*-Underexposure alert**: Select slower shutter speed, or use accessory Nikon Speedlight.
5. To take the picture, fully depress shutter release button.
OPERATION IN APERTURE-PRIORITY AUTO EXPOSURE MODE ( ., ,, (-,,-;,F ,-:0 .(,,:-, 1. While pressing MODE button, rotate command dial until A appears on LCD panel and viewfinder. • If using an AF Nikkor or AI-P lens, make sure it is not locked to smallest aperture before next step. 60 ) 2. Remove finger from MODE button and set lens to desired fnumber by rotating lens aperture ring. Aperture set on lens is indicated in the LCD panel and viewfinder as follows: f I f :''i f~ f~B f'i fS.
If meter has automatically tumed off and the LCD panel is off, tum meter on again by lightly pressing shutter release button. With lenses having no CPU, F- - appears instead of aperture value in LCD panel and viewfinder. 3. Look inside viewfinder, compose and lightly press shutter release button . Confirm automatically set shutter speed. With AI-type lenses including AI-modified Nikkor lenses: Confirm aperture value on lens barrel.
If the selected shutter speed is 1/(focallength) sec. or slower, picture blur may occur". To avoid this, hold camera very steadily or use a tripod. liD ( <:l _ IJ _ m:=l liD ( <:l _ IJ _ m:=l If H : appears in the shutter speed position with electronic analog display··-Overexposure alert·: Select smaller aperture (larger I-number) or use ND filter.
OPERATION IN MANUAL EXPOSURE MODE I 1. While pressing MODE button, rotate command dial until M appears in the LCD panel and viewfinder. • If using an AF Nikkor or AI-P lens, make sure it is not locked to smallest aperture before proceeding to next step. 2. Remove finger from MODE button, set shutter speed by rotating command dial. • In Manual exposure mode, you can set shutter speed to bul b for long time exposure by rotating command dial. For details about bul b setting, see pp. 98-99.
If meter has automatically turned off and LCD readout is off, turn meter on again by lightly pressing shutter release button. t: :j" VB ) +...~...Set aperture by rotating the lens aperture ring.
3. Look into the viewfinder, compose and lightly press shutter release button . Adjust aperture and/ or shutter speed until electronic analog display shows "0" or desired amount. Examples 0.. 1- +1 •• ~IIII Over +1EV " / _ +1 •• 0 .. 1- _ ~IIII / I I " " +1 •• 0 .. 1- / IIII~ / I I I " +1 •• 0.. 1I ±OEV +1 •• 0.. 1- 1111 +1EV +1 •• 0.. 1III ·2J3EV +1 •• 0.. 1- II +1/3EV +1 •• 0..
With lenses having no CPU, F- - appears instead of aperture value in LCD panel and viewfinder.
VARI-PROGRAM Here's how you can benefit from the N90's Vari -Program options for specific picture-taking situations.
WHAT IS VARI-PROGRAM? Programmed exposure control enables the camera's computer to automatically adjust both lens aperture and shutter speed for the correct exposure. The N90 camera's Matrix Metering System determines the correct exposure, applying exposure compensation as deemed necessary by the computer's program. However, other factors can affect the picture, including the use of different shutter speeds and different apertures.
Portrait Program (P 0) Sport Program (5 P) This enables you to take a portrait, with your subject standing out against a blurred background. Select this program to capture action. Great for sports photography or for shooting a fast-moving subject. Portrait Program with Red- Eye Reduction (,. E) Close-Up Program ([ U) Notice how, when taking pictures of people in dim light with flash, sometimes their eyes appear red.
SELECTING VARI-PROGRAM Use Nikkor lenses with CPU such as AF Nikkor or AI-PNikkor lenses and be sure to set lens aperture to the minimum setting. 1. Set Vari-Program. Press and hold Ps button and confirm exposure mode indication (P, S, R or M) starts blinking. 70 2. While keeping the Ps button pressed, rotate command dial until it clicks once.
To confirm selected Vari-Program in the LCD panel Press the Ps button. The selected Vari-Program (P 0 , ,. f , HF , L R, 5 L , 5 P or [ tI) is temporarily indicated in place of the frame counter in the LCD panel. If you want to change the VariProgram option, without removing your finger from the Ps button, rotate the command dial. To cancel Vari-Program 3. Remove your finger from Ps button. The frame counter appears again in the LCD panel but Vari-Program indicator remains in the viewfiner.
SHOOTING WITH VARI-PROGRAM PORTRAIT PROGRAM 125 f5.6 BJoo Pc This program selects the widest aperture possible, thus minimizing depth of field and producing a sharply focused main subject against a blurred background and foreground. It makes the focused subject seem sharper and minimizes distracting elements that may appear in the foreground or background.
Recommended lenses Procedure AF Nikkor lenses. To obtain pronounced blurred background effect, use 85mm to 200mm telephoto lenses with a maximum aperture of fl2.8 or wider. You can follow steps 4-6 of basic shooting procedure on pp. 21-24. To make a really good portrait, make sure your subject's eyes are in sharp focus. To achieve this effect1. Set focus area to G for Spot. 2. Set focus mode to S for Single Servo AF with Focus Priority. 3. Set film advance mode to [[) for single-frame shooting: 4.
PORTRAIT PROGRAM WITH RED-EYE REDUCTION (with 88-25 exclusively) Ie'S FS.6 8]00 rE Using the same exposure control as the Portrait Program, this program adds the benefit of Red-Eye Reduction in portraits taken with flash. Use this program for both indoor and outdoor portraits, along with the 8B-25 flash which offers Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash for really enhanced results.
Recommended lenses Procedure AF Nikkor lenses. To blur the background, use a telephoto lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 or brighter. However, in close-range shooting, use wider angle lenses to reduce redeye. For flash shooting procedure, see S8-25's instruction manual. However, with Red-Eye Reduction function, note that it is only at the fourth flash that the shutter is released. So hold the camera steadily and make sure your subject keeps still during all four flashes.
HYPERFOCALPROGRAM Ie'S fS.6 BJDD HF Although this program does not actually set the hyperfocal distance, it emulates the effects achieved by using very small lens apertures and short focal length lenses. The result will be a very large depth of field which yields a wide range of acceptable sharpness surrounding the focused plane of maximum sharpness. Use this program when photographing landscapes and other subjects that encompass great depth.
Recommended lenses Procedure 50mm or wider angle AF Nikkor lenses, or AF Zoom-Nikkor lenses with 50mm or shorter zooming position. You can follow steps 4-6 of basic shooting procedure on pp. 21-24. If you don't want to center your main subject, also see pp.40-43. Hyperfocal program tends to select a slow shutter speed and smaller aperture to assure both subject and background in focus. To avoid camera shake, use a tripod .
LANDSCAPE PROGRAM Ie'S FS.6 OBJoo LR Similar in concept to the Hyperiocal Program with respect to depth of field and overall sharpness.
Recommended lenses Procedure Select lens according to the desired effect. If you want an expansive view, use a wideangle AF Nikkor lens. If you prefer to emphasize your subject by magnifying it, use a telephoto AF Nikkor lens. You can follow steps 4-6 of basic shooting procedure on pp. 21-24. Landscape Program tends to select a slow shutter speed and a smaller aperture to assure sharply focused landscape pictures. To avoid camera shake, use a tripod.
SILHOUETIE PROGRAM Ie'S fS.6 OBJoo SL A silhouette photograph intentionally underexposes the backlit foreground subject so that it appears nearly black against the brighter background. This program works effectively only when the subject is at least 2 EV values lower (i.e., darker) than the background. It cannot be effective if the subject is frontlit or has about the same brightness as the background.
Recommended lenses Choose your lens according to the desired effect. If you want to picture a dynamic sunset. for example, use a telephoto AF Nikkor to magnify the sun. To make your main subject beautifully silhouetted • There must be a difference (at least 2 EV) in brightness between subject and background.
SPORT PROGRAM IcS fS.6 8JDD SP This program is designed to use select shutter speed and aperture combinations that correspond to those of the long lenses typically used for sports photography. It is biased towards higher shutter speeds to freeze action but make the subject 's arms or legs, for example, appear blurred.
Recommended lenses Procedure AF Nikkor lenses. For a more pronounced blurred background effect, use SOmm to 300mm telephoto lenses with a maximum aperture of fl2.S or brighter. 1. Set focus area focus mode to C for Continuous Servo AF with Release Priority. 2. Set film advance mode to ~H or ~L . Continuous shooting is recommended because quick response is crucial to action photography. Continuous shooting also allows you to create action-filled sequences. 3 .
CLOSE-UP PROGRAM 125 F5.6 BJDD r .. LU In close-up photography, various effects can be achieved with different f/stops. A very small aperture increases depth of field and enhances overall apparent sharpness. A wider aperture decreases depth of field and makes the focused subject stand out from the surrounding area (foreground and background) which will appear less sharp due to the shallow depth of field. This program selects aperture settings between f/4 and f/ 5.
Recommended lenses Procedure AF Micro-Nikkor lenses or AF Zoom-Nikkor lenses with macro focusing function. You can follow steps 4-6 of basic shooting procedure on pp. 21-24. However, the area you want to appear sharply focused may be slightly out ')f focus because depth of field is very shallow in close-up shooting. To avoid this: 1. Set focus area to 0 for Spot. 2. Set focus mode to S for Single Servo AF with Focus Priority. 3. Set film advance mode to [II for single-frame shooting. 4.
SPECIAL FUNCTIONS This chapter explains advanced photographic techniques and applications including exposure compensation methods. It also shows you how to use the self-timer, how to perform long time exposure, how to check depth of field and what to do when using non-DX-coded films.
EXPOSURE COMPENSATION Exposure compensation is a photographic technique that enables you to vary the final exposure settings from those measured by the camera's light meter. Nikon 's 3D Matrix Metering employs methods of exposure calculation that automatically apply exposure compensation, depending upon scene brightness and contrast. As a result, your subject, whether it is centered in the viewfinder or not, is given corrected exposure in most lighting situations.
AE-L (AUTO EXPOSURE LOCK) LEVER In the auto exposure mode, when you want to control exposure based on the brightness of a specific area within the scene, switch the metering system to Center-Weighted or Spot and use the AE-L lever as follows: 2. Lightly press shutter release button , and confirm shutter speed and aperture in viewfinder. 1. Center main subject inside viewfinder and/ or move in closer until reference circle for Center-Weighted metering or Spot metering is fully covered by the subject.
3. Keep shutter release button lightly pressed, slide AE-L lever and hold it in. • While AE-L lever is held in, beeper does not sound for picture-blur alert even if a slow shutter speed is selected. Neither does the green ~ mark for dark scene/subject appear. In Single Servo AF mode, if recomposing the picture could change sUbject-to-camera distance, refocus by briefly removing your finger from the shutter release button and lightly pressing it again. 4. Recompose the picture and shoot.
TO OBTAIN METER READING FOR A PARTICULAR SUBJECT IN MANUAL EXPOSURE MODE In Manual exposure mode, if you want to set exposure as desired on a particular subject, switch metering system to Center-Weighted or Spot and use the following method. 2. Lightly press shutter release button. 1. Center main subject inside viewfinder and/ or move in closer until reference circle for Center-Weighted metering or Spot metering is fully covered by the subject.
• ;": Eo.:, F S.( ~ +, .. .. ,- ) 3. Adjust shutter speed and aperture until electronic analog display shows desired exposure. In Single Servo AF mode, if recomposing the picture could change sUbject-to-camera distance, refocus by briefly removing your finger from the shutter release button and lightly pressing it again. 4. Recompose the picture and shoot.
EXPOSURE COMPENSATION BUTTON To modify exposure control (i.e., from the ISO standard) use the exposure compensation button. Compensation from -5EV to +5EV in 1/3 steps is possible. After taking your photographs, be sure to reset the control to "0" to resume normal operation. (Center-Weighted Metering) '0 P 00;. FI8 1. While pressing ~ button, rotate command dial to set desired compensation value. The following display appears in LCD panel and viewfinder.
1° _ ~.!J ,!=- C,,"C, . . F 3.t: 2. Once set, exposure compensation remains fixed until reset. Although the ili symbol stays on to indicate that exposure compensation is on, the compensation value disappears from the readout when you remove your finger from ili button, To confirm compensation value, press ili button again , 3.
SELF-TIMER OPERATION You have a choice of one-shot or two-shot self-timer operation. In one-shot self-timer mode, duration is variable from 2 sec. to 30 sec. • Regardless of film advance mode setting, continuous shooting is not performed (except for two-shot self-timer operation) . • Long time exposure at but b setting cannot be used for self-timer operation.
ONE-SHOT SELF-TIMER :25 F5.6 EJ~(D)WF IDJ ( , ~J, ~ e~ 1. While pressing ~ button, rotate command dial until desired timer duration with ~ symbol appears in LCD panel. Timer duration can be varied from 2 to 30 seconds in onesecond increments. • Next to 30 (for 30-sec. duration), 10 with ~~ mark for twoshot self-timer appears in LCD panel. ... 3. While pressing ~ button, fully depress shutter release button. Self-timer LED starts blinking and ~ symbol in LCD panel blinks.
TWO-SHOT SELF-TIMER 125 F5.6 :eJ[~)(DJWF IilJ [ JL m::=J ~. . 1. While pressing ~ button, rotate command dial counterclockwise until :0 with 00 symbol (next to 30) appears in LCD panel. 2. Compose picture, lightly press shutter release button, and confirm focus and exposure. 96 3. While pressing ~ button, fully depress shutter release button. Self-timer LED and ~~ symbol in LCD panel blinks. The shutter is released for the first shot after approx. 10 sec., and the second shot is taken 5 sec. later.
TO CONFIRM SHARPNESS BEFORE SHOOTING-DEPTH-OF-FIELD PREVIEW BUTTON Note that when you're using a lens with an automatic diaphragm, which is what most Nikkor lenses have, the viewfinder image you see is one with the lens fully open (i.e., lens at maximum aperture). This enables you to view the depth of field before you take the picture, with the N90's AperturePriority auto or Manual exposure mode. Depress the depth-of-field preview button to stop the lens down to the aperture set.
LONG TIME EXPOSURE-USING b LJ t b SETTING At but b setting, shutter remains open as long as shutter release button remains depressed . To avoid camera shake, which may cause picture blur, use a tripod. Use of remote control accessories such as Nikon Remote Cord MC-20, Modulite Remote Control Set ML-3, etc. is also recommended to avoid camera shake. IIf;(', " ) ,-.I.' ,_ " :,.(, II I 1. Press MODE button and rotate command dial to select Mfor Manual exposure mode. 2.
MF-26 users Data Link System users With the MF-26's Long Time Exposure function, you can set the N90 for a time exposure as long as 99 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds. Note that exposure duration depends on the life of the batteries inside the N90. You can use "Time" instead of "Bulb" for long time exposure. For details, see AC-1 E card instruction manual. MC-20 users You can perform long time exposures of preset duration up to 9 hours 59 minutes 59 seconds.
TO USE NON-OX-CODED FILM IcS FS.6 EjH[!)Wf IDJ rn=:J( m II _ .. IcS FS.6 0 0 :00 To check ISO number after film loading, press ISO/e~ button. The usable range for manual film speed setting is ISO 6 to 6400. While pressing ISOl e", button, rotate command dial to set film 's ISO number.
INTERCHANGING FOCUSING SCREENS In addition to the advanced B-type BriteView screen supplied with the N90 camera, the E-type clear Matt/ Fresnel screen with focusing brackets and grid is available as an option. Type E screen is suitable for copying and architectural photography. 1 . Remove the lens. Be sure not to touch the focusing screen or refiex mirror with your fingers . 2.
3. Remove the screen by grasping the small tab with the tweezers. 4. Carefully position the replacement screen in place, making sure the flash side is facing down. 102 5. Using the tweezers, push the front edge of the holder upward until it clicks into place. An improperly placed focusing screen results in unreliable focus information, so always make sure the screen is in its proper place.
LENSES Your Nikon N90 uses Nikon's respected, long-established tripleclaw F-mount for rugged and reliable performance. Crafted from stainless steel , the camera 's mount works perfectly with the chromed brass bayonet of each Nikkor lens. For full performance, always use Nikon lenses.
LENS COMPATIBILITY CHART The Nikon N90 is designed for autofocus photography with AF Nikkor lenses (except AF-Nikkor lenses for F3 AF). However, most other Nikon lenses can be used for standard photography according to the conditions listed in the following chart.
'1 '2 '3 '4 '5 '6 7 '8 '9 '10 ' 11 '12 '13 '14 '15 3D Matrix Metering is selected with D-type AF Nikkor lenses and Advanced Matrix Metering is selected with non-D-type lenses. With maximum effective aperture of f15.6 or faster when using the TC-16A Autofocus Converter. (See page 35). With maximum aperture of f15.6 or faster. Set shutter speed to 11125 sec. or slower. Because the diaphragm is coupled to the focusing ring, determining exposure is independent from camera 's metering system.
eThe following Nikkor lenses cannot be attached to the N90 (camera body or lens may be damaged): • Non-AI lenses • Fisheye 6mm fl5 .6 • Fisheye OP 10mm f/ 5.6 • 200-600mm f/9 .5 (Factory Serial No. 280001 to 301922) • ED 180-600mm f/8 (No. 174041 to 174180) • ED 360-1200mm f/ 11 (No. 174031 to 174127) • 400mm f/5.6 and 600mm f/ 5.6 with Focusing Unit AU-1 • PC 28mm f/ 4 (No. 180900 or smaller)* • PC 35mm f/ 2.8 (No. 851001 to 906200)* • Reflex 1000mm f/ 11 (No. 142361 to 143000)* • Reflex 2000mm f/ 11 (No.
FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY You can enjoy the exc itement of the Nikon N90 camera ' s advanced flash technology by using Nikon's advanced SB-25 AF Speedlight. With the N90 System you 'll discover the benefits of flash for more picture-taking situations than ever. Make fill-flash a standard part of your photography . Brighten dull scenes and erase harsh shadows for beautiful portraits. With the N90 system 's automatic operation, you can make better flash pictures than ever before.
NIKON SPEEDLIGHT COMPATIBILITY FLASH MODES AVAILABLE WITH NIKON SPEEDLIGHTS The table below shows the available flash modes for each Nikon 8peedlight.
WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH YOUR NIKON SPEEDLIGHT Nikon Speedlights, combined with the N90 camera, offer various features and functions. The main features and functions are listed below.
TTL AUTO FLASH-AUTOMATIC BALANCED FILL-FLASH AND STANDARD TTL FLASH TYPE OF TIL AUTO FLASH TIL auto is recommended for most common flash shooting situations. With the Nikon Speedlight set for TIL auto flash (see chart on page 108 for compatibility), Automatic Balanced FillFlash or Standard TIL Flash is performed. Using Standard TIL Flash control, a Speedlight tends to give more illumination than needed on the main subject, resulting in an unnaturally bright subject with a dark background.
With S8-25 When using Vari-Program Exposure mode Lens Metering system AF Nikkor lens (except for AF Nikkor for F3 AF) and AI-P-Nikkor lens Matrix, Center-Weighted and Spot Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TIL Multi Senosr-30 Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash with Ootype AF Nikkor lens or Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash with non-Ootype AF Nikkor lens and AI-P-Nikkor lens Matrix Center-Weighted FillFlash'1 Center-Weighted FillFlash '2 Center-Weighted Center-Weighted FillFlash '3 Center-Weighted
With S8-24 When using Vari-Program Exposure mode Lens Metering system D-type AF Nikkor lens, non-D-type AF Nikkor lens (except for AF Nikkor for F3AF) and AI-P-Nikkor lens Matrix, Center-Weighted and Spot Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Matrix Center-Weighted FillFlash"' Center-Weighted FillFlash"2 Center-Weighted Center-Weighted FillFlash"3 Center-Weighted FillFlash Spot Spot Fill-Flash-3 Spot Fill-Flash Other lenses (or with accessories) Programmed and Shutter-Priority Auto Aperture-Pri
With SB-23, SB-22 , SB-20, SB-21B*1, SB-16B, SB-15, SB-14*2, SB- 11 *2 or SB-140*2 Exposure mode lens O-Iype AF Nikkor lens, non-O-Iype AF Nikkor lens (except lor AF Nikkor for F3AF) and AI-P-Nikkor lens Other lenses (or with accessories) Metering system Programmed and Shutter-Priority Auto Aperture-Priority Auto and Manual Matrix, CenterWeighted and Spot Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Matrix Center-Weighted FillFlash -3 Center-Weighted FillFlash'4 Center -Weighted Center -Weighted FillFlash'5
AUTOMATIC BALANCED FILL-FLASH WITH TIL MULTI SENSOR-3D MULTI - SENSOR BALANCED FILL-FLASH AND MULTISENSOR BALANCED FILL-FLASH 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash is possible only with the combination of the N90, aD-type AF Nikkor lens and the Nikon SB-25 AF Speedlight.
CENTER-WEIGHTED/SPOT FILL-FLASH STANDARD TTL FLASH If you are using a lens without CPU (a lens other than AF Nikkor and AI-P-Nikkor), Center-Weighted Fill-Flash and Spot Fill-Flash are performed as Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash. Although the TIL Multi-Sensor is not used, flash output is properly compensated to produce a natural fill-flash effect. In Standard TIL Flash, automatic flash output level compensation is not available.
SHUTTER SPEED/APERTURE FOR EACH EXPOSURE MODE IN TTL AUTO FLASH When setting shutter speed and aperture, refer to the following table. Camera's exposure mode Shutter speed Aperture If focal length in use is 60mm or shorter: 1/250 sec. to 1I(focallength) sec: 1 Programmed Auto (P, Ps) If focal elngth in use is longer than 60mm: 1/250 sec. to 1/60 sec: 1 Shutter-Priority Auto (5) Set lens to its minimum aperture. Aperture is automatically controlled between f/2.
Reference: Available maximum aperture for each film speed Note for selecting aperture ISO film speed 25 50 100 200 400 BOO 1000 112.B 113.3 1/4 1/4.B 1/5.6 1/6.7 1/7.1 As film speed increases by one step, available maximum aperture is stopped down by 112 flstop. If you are using a lens with a maximum aperture smaller than listed, of course, the automatically controlled aperture range is from the lens maximum aperture to its minimum aperture (i.e., its entire range).
TTL AUTO FLASH OPERATION The difference between Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash and 8tandard TIL Flash is in whether the flash output level is automatically compensated or not. Operation is the same, 1. 8et camera's metering system and exposure mode, referring to previous table, 2.
In Auto Multi-Program mode In Aperture-Priority Auto exposure mode If H : appears, background may be overexposed. To give the background a correct exposure, reset to an exposure mode that lets you choose a faster shutter speed and/or a smaller aperture. If shutter speed indicator shows 6D, backgound may underexposed.To extend the automatically controlled shutter speed range, set the camera to the Slow Sync mode (p.
TO MAKE NIGHT BACKGROUND MORE VISIBLE-SLOW SYNC OPERATION When fiash pictures are taken at high shutter speeds in dim light, the background may come out dark. To improve background exposure, use Slow Sync to extend the automatically controlled shutter speed range down to 30 sec. Without Slow Sync, the automatically controlled shutter speed is controlled between 1/250 sec. and 1/60 sec. or 1/ (focal length) sec.
1. Set camera's exposure mode to P for Auto Multi-Program or A for Aperture-Priority Auto. 2. While pressing the camera's ~ button, rotate command dial until r,l appears in camera's LCD panel. Then follow steps 2-6 of TIL AUTO FLASH OPERATION, on p. 118. Use a tripod to prevent camera shake.
TO CREATE NATURAL-LOOKING STREAM OF UGHT-REAR-CURTAIN SYNC Normally in flash synchronization, the Speedlight fires at the beginning of the exposure. When the shutter speed is low, the result is an unnatural light pattern. When Rear-Curtain Sync is set, the Speedlight fires at the end of the exposure, turning available light into a stream of light that follows the flash-illuminated moving subject.
1. Set camera's exposure mode to 5 for Shutter-Priority Auto or Mfor Manual exposure mode. 2. Set Rear-Curtain Sync. For Speedlight other than S8-25 or S8-24: While pressing the camera's ~ button, rotate the command dial until ~ appears in the camera's LCD panel. For S8-25 or S8-24 users: Set the Speedlight's sync mode selector to REAR position. (See your Speedlight's instruction manual) . Rear-Sync setting on camera is ignored. Then follow steps 2-6 of TTL AUTO FLASH OPERATION, on p. 118.
RED-EYE REDUCTION (for use with 58-25 only) When shooting people or animals in dim light using a flash, the subject's eye may sometimes appear red in color pictures or white in B&W pictures. The Red-Eye Reduction function reduces the possibility of "red-eye". With this function, before the shutter is released and before the multi-area sensor's Monitor Pre-fiashes, the flash fires three visible but relatively dim flashes, followed by the main flash which takes the picture.
rn While pressing the camera's button, rotate the command dial until ~~ appears in camera's LCD readout. Then follow steps 2-6 of TIL Auto Flash Operation, on p118. However, with the Red-Eye Reduction function, remember that it is only at the fourth flash that the shutter is released. So hold the camera steadily and make sure your subject keeps still during all four flashes. To further reduce red-eye • Have the subject look away from the lens, toward a bright light.
NOTES ON FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY • Use only Nikon 8peedlights. Other units may damage the camera's electrical circuits due to incompatible voltage requirements', electric contact alignment or switch phase. • Not compatible with 250 Vor higher. • When using a special 8peedlight such as a studio strobe system, with a time-lag provision or one with a long flash duration (i.e., Medical-Nikkor 120mm f/4), adjust shutter speed down to 1/125 sec. or slower.
EV CHARTS FOR FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY For your reference, the following charts show shutter speed/aperture combination at each EV in fiash photography: (b) > ~ 1 / // (a) Auto Multi-Program (b) Shutter-Priority Auto (e) Aperture-Priority Auto ~ , ~ ~ ~ / / / / / / // / / / / // ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ / ~ .,"> VVVVVVVVVV/V/VVVVV V / V / V / V / V V / V / V / / / / "",'> / V V V V V V V V / V / V IV V IV V ,<0 2.8 'V V / V / V VV VV VV V / VV VV V ~ V / V / V V V V V V V V / V V V V V ,'l> 5.
MISCELLANEOUS The Nikon N90 is a high-performance, precision instrument, designed to give you superior pictures. You 'll want to take good care of your camera to ensure the best performance. Take time to review this section thoroughly, and you will add to the pleasure of taking pictures. We've also included a detailed section with technical specifications and a glossary of terms that will help you understand the N90 system more fully. Please read them carefully.
ACCESSORY COMPATIBILITY The following accessories cannot be used with the Nikon N90 camera: PK-1 ,PK-2, PK-3, PN-1 , K2 BR-2 Rings Body Cap BF-1 Eyepiece Accessories for F3HP/F3T. • PK-1 , PK-11 , BR-4 and K1 Rings cannot be mounted directly on AF Nikkor lenses. • The advanced Nikon Matrix meter evaluates scene brightness and contrast using an eight-segment sensor.
CAMERA CARE TIPS 1. Do not touch the camera's reflex mirror or focusing screen. Remove dust with a blower brush. 5. Clean glass surfaces, such as the lens or the eyepiece, with a blower brush; do not use lens tissue, silicon type eyeglass tissue, etc. To remove dirt and smudges, use soft cotton 130 2. Do not touch the shutter curtains. moistened with denatured alcohol and wipe surface in a spiral motion from center to periphery. Do not leave traces. 3. Do not touch the OX contacts.
6. Do not lubricate the camera. 7. Do not leave the camera in an excessively hot place. 8. Keep the camera away from water or moisture. When using the camera near water, guard against splashes, especially salt water spray. 1O.lf the camera malfunctions, take it immediately to an authorized Nikon dealer or service center. 11. Store the camera in a cool, dry place away from naphthalene or camphor (moth repellent).
NOTES ON BATTERIES In certain cases, due to static electricity or poorly loaded batteries, the N90 camera's microcomputer may turn the camera off, even with fresh properly installed batteries. For the same reason, film may not advance properly. In each of these cases, to resume operation, simply turn the power off, then turn it on again, or remove batteries and install them again.
1. Keep batteries out of children 's reach. If someone accidentally swallows batteries, call a doctor immediately. 2. Do not disassemble, short circuit or heat batteries. Do not charge dry cells. 3. If you do not intend to use 5. When replacing batteries, 6. Do not throw used batteries into a fire. 7. If the battery chamber is contaminated by battery leakage, take the camera to an authorized Nikon dealer. be sure to replace all batteries at the same time. Always use fresh batteries of the same brand.
SPECIFICATIONS Type of camera Pictu re format Lens mount Lens Focus modes Autofocus area Autofocus mode Focus Tracking Autofocus detection system Autofocus detection range Autofocus lock 134 Integral-motor autofocus 35mm single-lens reflex 24mm x 36mm (standard 35mm film format) Nikon F mount Nikkor and Nikon lenses having Nikon F mount' • With limitation; see chart on p.
Aperture-priority auto exposure control Manual exposure control Vari-Program Exposure compensation Auto exposure lock Shutter Shutter release Shutter speeds Shutter speed automatically selected to match manually set aperture Both aperture and shutter speed are set manually Seven kinds built-in: Portrait Program, Portrait Program with redeye reduction, Hyperiocal Program, Landscape Program, Silhouette Program, Sport Program, and CloseUp Program; each has its own program line, and specific camera settings s
ViewfinderLCD panel illumination Electronic beeper Film speed range Film speed setting Film loading Film advance Frame counter 136 Viewfnder and LCD panel illuminated by pressing button With power switch at "," ', beeper sounds as In-focus signal, operation signal or alert signal ISO 25 to 5000 for OX-coded film; ISO 6 to 6400 can be manually set At OX position, automatically set to ISO speed of OX-coded film used; manual setting possible Film automatically advances to first frame when shutter release
Flash sync control Flash synchronization TTL Multi Sensor Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor Monitor Preflash Slow Sync, Rear-Curtain Sync and Red-Eye Reduction functions built-in In Programmed auto or AperturePriority Auto , shutter operates from 1/250 to 1/60 sec: or to 1/(focal length)** in normal sync, or 1/250 to 30 sec. in slow sync; in ShutterPriority Auto or Manual exposure mode, shutter fires at speed set, and when set from 1/250 to 1/8000 sec.
Power source Battery power confirmation Dimensions (WxHxD) Weight (without batteries) Four AA-type batteries ~ for sufficient power; C7iJ indicates batteries are nearing exhaustion; blinking C7iJ indicates batteries are just about exhausted; no indication/ mark appears when batteries are completely exhausted or imporperly installed Approx. 154 x 106 x 69mm or 6.1 x 4.2 x 2.7 in. Approx . 755g or 26.6 oz.
GLOSSARY Balanced fill-flash operation DX code A technique in flash photography in which flash illumination is controlled to balance it with the ambient light on the scene. The N90 uses an Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash System with TIL Multi-Senosr for this automatic operation with a compatible Nikon TIL Speedlight. Film information code printed on film cartridge. The N90, when set to automatic film speed setting mode, senses the film speed (ISO 25 to 5000) of OX-coded film when it is loaded.
Exposure control Flash synchronization Programmed auto: Camera sets both shutter speed and aperture for correct exposure. The timing of the flash so it fires coincident with the operation of the camera's shutter. There are two types of synchronization: Normal Sync which fires the flash at the start of the exposure, and Rear Sync which fires the flash at the end of the exposure. Shutter-Priority auto: User selects shutter speed and camera sets matching lens aperture for correct exposure.
ISO film speed Release-Priority for autofocus The intemational standard for representing film sensitivity. The higher the number, the greater the sensitivity, and vice versa. A film speed of ISO 200 is twice as sensitive as ISO 100, and half that of ISO 400 film.
TTL auto flash The camera's light sensor measures flash illumination, as reflected by the subject on the film and shuts off the flash when measurement indicates correct exposure. Because the sensor that controls the flash receives light through the lens, TIL auto flash can be used for bounce flash photography, fill-flash, multiple flash photography, etc. An additional advantage of TIL auto flash is that you can use a wide range of aperture settings, while ensuring correct exposure.
LCD PANELIVIEWFINDER INDICATIONS LCD panelNiewfinder ~ Err - Shutter Cause and remedy No indication appears when camera is turned on. Locked Battery power is exhausted. Replace with fresh set of batteries. Err . ISO and IDJ marks blink· Locked Non-DX-coded film or film with unacceptable DX code is loaded. Set manually to correct setting. <:l_ blinks· Locked Film is not correctly positioned. Reload film. End and <:l_ blink· Locked Film has reached end of roll. Rewind film.
LCD panelNiewfinder las.. f5.6 [t:l] blinks ftl~~ IiIJ I( <:) _) _ m=J ~ I ~~ : ~~ :25 FS.!) d(5 (F - - ~~fQl n!. ( IJ m=J <:)':"' _ 144 ( :) I d(5 (f- ,~ fQl n!. ( IJ m=J <:) • blinks - P or S blinks and F- - appears Shutter Cause and remedy Can be released Matrix meter is set even though lens attached has no CPU; camera automatically resets meter to Center-Weighted metering. Depends on focus mode selector. Locks at S or can be released at C and M.
LCD panelNiewfinder P. blinks and F- - appears< H : appears in auto exposure mode< Shutter Cause and remedy Locked Vari-Program is set even though lens attached has no CPU. Can be released Overexposure possible Can be released Underexposure possible I!IJ [ <:l _ IJ _ m=:J l 0 appears in auto exposure mode< • Alert signal sounds if electronic beeper is set.
LCD panelNiewfinder - FE E eJ [~H6J1!IlI' ., • [ <:l _ IilJ :J _ m::::::J , - FE E rb~a»' , [ :J FE E blinks in programmed auto or Shutter Locked Lens is not set to the smallest aperture setting. Set lens to the smallest aperture. Locked Speed light is not set at TIL auto fiash. Set the Speedlight flash mode to TIL, or set the camera's exposure to a mode other than Programmed Auto.
LCD panelNiewfinder ~ lights up in green Shutter Can be released ABOUT LCD • The N90 uses a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) of the highest quality which, under conditions of normal use, should provide several years of reliable operation. After this period, contrast may deteriorate and display information may start to fade. You can have the LCD replaced at a nominal charge by contacting an authorized Nikon dealer or service facility.
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