Nikon Camcorder D3x User Manual

DIGITAL CAMERA  
User's Manual  
En  
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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. 5)  
Warranty  
User’s Manual (this guide)  
Quick Guide  
Software Installation Guide  
Software Suite CD-ROM  
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Symbols and Conventions  
To make it easier to find the information you need, the following  
symbols and conventions are used:  
This icon marks cautions; information that should be read before  
use to prevent damage to the camera.  
D
This icon marks notes; information that should be read before  
using the camera.  
A
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. Microsoft, Windows and Windows Vista are either registered  
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States  
and/or other countries. CompactFlash is a trademark of SanDisk  
Corporation. Microdrive is a trademark of Hitachi Global Storage  
Technologies in the United States and other countries. HDMI, the HDMI  
logo, and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or  
registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC. PictBridge is a trademark.  
All other trade names mentioned in this manual or the other  
documentation provided with your Nikon product are trademarks or  
registered trademarks of their respective holders.  
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Introduction  
X
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Q
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Tutorial  
Image Recording Options  
Focus  
Release Mode  
ISO Sensitivity  
Exposure  
White Balance  
Image Enhancement  
Flash Photography  
Other Shooting Options  
More About Playback  
Voice Memos  
Connections  
Menu Guide  
Technical Notes  
iii  
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Q&A Index  
Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer”  
index.  
New Features  
Question  
Key phrase  
See page  
How do I take pictures in 35mm format? Image area  
How do I take high-quality NEF (RAW)  
photos?  
60  
14-bit NEF (RAW)  
69  
72  
How do I record photographs using two  
memory cards?  
Slot 2  
Can I use the monitor as a viewfinder?  
Live view  
90  
Can I control how photos are processed? Picture Controls  
162  
How do I preserve details in shadows and  
highlights?  
How do I focus on erratically moving  
subjects?  
Active D-Lighting  
181  
308  
361  
3D-tracking  
Can I adjust focus separately for different  
AF fine tune  
lenses?  
Camera Setup  
Question  
Key phrase  
See page  
How do I focus the viewfinder?  
How do I keep the monitor from turning  
off?  
How do I keep the shutter speed and  
aperture displays from turning off?  
Viewfinder focus  
47  
Monitor off delay  
Auto meter off  
319  
50, 318  
iv  
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Question  
How do I set the clock?  
Key phrase  
See page  
How do I set the clock for daylight  
savings time?  
World time  
40, 349  
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?  
LCD brightness  
347  
204  
293  
Two-button reset  
Reset shooting menu  
How do I restore Custom Setting  
defaults?  
How do I change the self-timer delay?  
Can I reverse the electronic analog  
exposure display?  
Reset custom settings  
Self-timer delay  
304  
319  
345  
Reverse indicators  
Can I display the menus in a different  
language?  
Can I save menu settings for use on a  
different D3X camera?  
Language  
349  
358  
Save/load settings  
Menus and Displays  
Question  
How do I get more information on a  
menu?  
Key phrase  
See page  
31  
Help  
How do I use the menus?  
What do these indicators mean?  
What information is in the shooting  
information display?  
Using the menus  
Viewfinder, control  
panels, shooting  
information display  
Error messages and  
displays  
26  
8, 10,  
12, 14  
What does this warning mean?  
414  
48  
How much charge does the battery have  
left?  
How do I get more information about the  
battery?  
Battery level  
Battery info  
355  
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Question  
Key phrase  
See page  
322  
How do I keep the file number from  
being reset when I insert a new memory  
card?  
How do I reset file numbering to 1?  
How do I clean the camera or lens?  
File number sequence  
Cleaning the camera  
395  
Taking Photographs  
Question  
Key phrase  
See page  
How many more shots can I take with this Number of exposures  
49  
card?  
remaining  
How do I take bigger photographs?  
How can I get more photos on the  
memory card?  
Image quality and size  
66, 70  
Can I control how the camera focuses?  
How do I take a lot of photographs  
quickly?  
Autofocus  
73  
86  
Release mode  
Can I change the frame advance rate?  
Can I shoot a self-portrait?  
Can I take pictures under low light  
without the flash?  
Can the ISO sensitivity I choose be  
adjusted to ensure optimal exposure?  
Shooting speed  
Self-timer mode  
88, 321  
100  
ISO sensitivity  
104  
106  
116  
ISO sensitivity auto  
control  
Exposure mode f  
(shutter-priority auto)  
How do I freeze or blur moving objects?  
How do I blur background details or keep  
both foreground and background in  
focus?  
Exposure mode g  
(aperture-priority auto)  
118  
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Question  
Key phrase  
See page  
Can I set both shutter speed and aperture Exposure mode h  
120  
manually?  
(manual)  
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?  
Exposure compensation  
Long time-exposures  
Exposure and flash  
bracketing  
White balance  
bracketing  
128  
122  
131, 328  
135, 328  
140  
White balance  
Flash mode  
194  
How can I record multiple shots as a  
single photograph?  
Can I record voice memo when taking a  
photograph?  
Multiple exposure  
Voice memo  
206  
248  
Fine tune optimal  
exposure  
Exposure delay mode  
Can I pick the standard exposure level?  
How can I reduce blur?  
316  
325  
Viewing Photographs  
Question  
Can I view my photographs on the  
camera?  
Key phrase  
See page  
Camera playback  
226  
Can I view more information about  
photos?  
Photo info  
229  
Why do parts of my photos blink?  
Photo info, highlights  
231, 282  
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Question  
Key phrase  
Deleting individual  
photos  
See page  
245  
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?  
Delete  
281  
Playback zoom  
243  
Can I protect photos from accidental  
deletion?  
Can I hide selected photos?  
How do I tell if parts of my photos may be Display mode:  
overexposed?  
Protect  
244  
281  
282  
Hide image  
highlights  
Display mode: focus  
point  
How do I tell where the camera focused?  
282  
Can I view photos as they are taken?  
Can I record a voice memo on photos?  
Is there an automatic playback (“slide  
show”) option?  
Image review  
Voice memo  
287  
251  
Slide show  
288  
Retouching Photographs  
Question  
Key phrase  
D-Lighting  
Red-eye correction  
See page  
366  
367  
How do I bring out details in shadows?  
Can I get rid of red eye?  
Can I crop photographs on the camera? Trim  
368  
Can I create a monochrome copy of a  
photograph?  
Can I create a copy with different colors? Filter effects  
Can I use camera to create JPEG copies of  
Monochrome  
369  
370  
370  
Color balance  
NEF (RAW) photographs?  
Can I overlay two photos to make a single  
Image overlay  
image?  
371  
viii  
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Viewing or Printing Photographs on Other Devices  
Question  
Can I view my photos on TV?  
Key phrase  
Television playback  
See page  
274  
Can I view my photos in High Definition? HDMI  
276  
Connecting to a  
computer  
Printing photographs  
How do I copy photos to my computer?  
How do I print photographs?  
256  
262  
263  
266, 270  
272  
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)  
Optional Accessories  
Question  
What optional flash units (Speedlights)  
can I use?  
Key phrase  
Optional flash units  
Compatible lenses  
See page  
187  
What lenses can I use?  
382  
What AC adapters, remote cords, and  
viewfinder accessories are available for  
my camera?  
Other accessories  
387  
Approved memory  
cards  
What memory cards can I use?  
394  
391  
What software is available for my  
camera?  
Other accessories  
ix  
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Table of Contents  
Q&A Index ................................................................................................iv  
For Your Safety .................................................................................. xviii  
Notices.....................................................................................................xxi  
Introduction  
1
Overview....................................................................................................2  
Getting to Know the Camera..............................................................3  
Camera Body.......................................................................................3  
The Top Control Panel .....................................................................8  
The Rear Control Panel..................................................................10  
The Viewfinder Display..................................................................12  
The Shooting Information Display............................................14  
The Command Dials .......................................................................16  
Quick Start Guide................................................................................. 23  
Tutorial  
25  
Camera Menus...................................................................................... 26  
Using Camera Menus .....................................................................28  
Help ......................................................................................................31  
First Steps ............................................................................................... 32  
Charge the Battery..........................................................................32  
Insert the Battery .............................................................................34  
Attach a Lens.....................................................................................37  
Basic Setup.........................................................................................39  
Insert a Memory Card.....................................................................42  
Formatting Memory Cards...........................................................45  
Adjust Viewfinder Focus ...............................................................47  
Basic Photography and Playback................................................... 48  
Turn the Camera On .......................................................................48  
Adjust Camera Settings.................................................................51  
Ready the Camera ...........................................................................54  
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Focus and Shoot.............................................................................. 55  
Viewing Photographs.................................................................... 57  
Deleting Unwanted Photographs............................................. 58  
Image Recording Options  
59  
Image Area............................................................................................. 60  
Image Quality........................................................................................ 66  
Image Size.............................................................................................. 70  
Slot 2 ........................................................................................................ 72  
Focus  
73  
Focus Mode ........................................................................................... 74  
AF-Area Mode....................................................................................... 76  
Focus Point Selection......................................................................... 78  
Focus Lock.............................................................................................. 80  
Manual Focus........................................................................................ 83  
Release Mode  
85  
Choosing a Release Mode ................................................................ 86  
Continuous Mode................................................................................ 88  
Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) ............................. 90  
Self-Timer Mode.................................................................................100  
Mirror up Mode ..................................................................................102  
ISO Sensitivity  
103  
Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually..............................................104  
Auto ISO Sensitivity Control ..........................................................106  
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Exposure  
109  
Metering ...............................................................................................110  
Exposure Mode...................................................................................112  
e: Programmed Auto .................................................................. 114  
f: Shutter-Priority Auto .............................................................. 116  
g: Aperture-Priority Auto ........................................................... 118  
h: Manual......................................................................................... 120  
Shutter-Speed and Aperture Lock...............................................123  
Autoexposure (AE) Lock..................................................................125  
Exposure Compensation.................................................................128  
Bracketing ............................................................................................130  
White Balance  
139  
White Balance Options ....................................................................140  
Fine-Tuning White Balance............................................................143  
Choosing a Color Temperature ....................................................147  
Preset Manual .....................................................................................148  
Image Enhancement  
161  
Picture Controls..................................................................................162  
Creating Custom Picture Controls.......................................... 170  
Active D-Lighting...............................................................................181  
Color Space..........................................................................................183  
Flash Photography  
185  
The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)...............................186  
Compatible Flash Units ...................................................................187  
CLS-Compatible Flash Units ..................................................... 187  
Other Flash Units .......................................................................... 191  
i-TTL Flash Control.............................................................................193  
Flash Modes.........................................................................................194  
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FV Lock ..................................................................................................198  
Flash Contacts.....................................................................................201  
Other Shooting Options  
203  
Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings .......................204  
Multiple Exposure .............................................................................206  
Interval Timer Photography ..........................................................211  
Non-CPU Lenses.................................................................................218  
Using a GPS Unit ................................................................................221  
More About Playback  
225  
Full-Frame Playback .........................................................................226  
Photo Information.............................................................................229  
Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback .....................241  
Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom........................................243  
Protecting Photographs from Deletion.....................................244  
Deleting Individual Photographs ................................................245  
Voice Memos  
247  
Recording Voice Memos.................................................................248  
Playing Voice Memos.......................................................................253  
Connections  
255  
Connecting to a Computer............................................................256  
Direct USB Connection ...............................................................258  
Wireless and Ethernet Networks .............................................261  
Printing Photographs.......................................................................262  
Direct USB Connection ...............................................................263  
Viewing Photographs on TV..........................................................274  
Standard Definition Devices .....................................................274  
High-Definition Devices .............................................................276  
xiii  
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Menu Guide  
277  
D The Playback Menu: Managing Images...............................278  
Delete........................................................................................... 281  
Playback Folder......................................................................... 281  
Hide Image................................................................................. 281  
Display Mode............................................................................. 282  
Copy Image(s) ........................................................................... 283  
Image Review............................................................................ 287  
After Delete................................................................................ 287  
Rotate Tall................................................................................... 287  
Slide Show.................................................................................. 288  
Print Set (DPOF)........................................................................ 289  
C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options...............................290  
Shooting Menu Bank .............................................................. 291  
Reset Shooting Menu............................................................. 293  
Active Folder.............................................................................. 293  
File Naming................................................................................ 296  
Slot 2............................................................................................. 296  
Image Quality............................................................................ 296  
Image Size................................................................................... 297  
Image Area ................................................................................. 297  
JPEG Compression................................................................... 297  
NEF (RAW) Recording ............................................................. 297  
White Balance............................................................................ 297  
Set Picture Control................................................................... 298  
Manage Picture Control......................................................... 298  
Color Space ................................................................................ 298  
Active D-Lighting..................................................................... 298  
Vignette Control....................................................................... 299  
Long Exp. NR (Long Exposure Noise Reduction).......... 300  
High ISO NR................................................................................ 300  
ISO Sensitivity Settings .......................................................... 301  
Live View ..................................................................................... 301  
Multiple Exposure.................................................................... 301  
Interval Timer Shooting......................................................... 301  
A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings ..............302  
B: Custom Setting Bank........................................................ 304  
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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........................................309  
a5: AF Activation.......................................................................309  
a6: Focus Point Illumination.................................................310  
a7: Focus Point Wrap-Around..............................................311  
a8: AF Point Selection .............................................................311  
a9: AF-ON Button......................................................................312  
a10: Vertical AF-ON Button ...................................................313  
b: Metering/Exposure..................................................................314  
b1: ISO Sensitivity Step Value ..............................................314  
b2: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl. ..........................................314  
b3: EV Steps for Exposure Comp.........................................314  
b4: Easy Exposure Compensation ......................................315  
b5: Center-Weighted Area ....................................................316  
b6: Fine Tune Optimal Exposure.........................................316  
c: Timers/AE Lock ..........................................................................318  
c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L .........................................318  
c2: Auto Meter-off Delay........................................................318  
c3: Self-Timer Delay .................................................................319  
c4: Monitor off Delay...............................................................319  
d: Shooting/Display......................................................................320  
d1: Beep .......................................................................................320  
d2: Shooting Speed .................................................................321  
d3: Max. Continuous Release ...............................................321  
d4: File Number Sequence....................................................322  
d5: Control Panel/Viewfinder...............................................323  
d6: Shooting Info Display ......................................................324  
d7: LCD Illumination................................................................325  
d8: Exposure Delay Mode......................................................325  
e: Bracketing/Flash .......................................................................326  
e1: Flash Sync Speed...............................................................326  
e2: Flash Shutter Speed..........................................................327  
e3: Modeling Flash...................................................................327  
e4: Auto Bracketing Set..........................................................328  
e5: Auto Bracketing (Mode M).............................................329  
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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......................................................... 333  
f5: Assign Preview Button ..................................................... 339  
f6: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button ................................................. 340  
f7: Customize Command Dials............................................ 341  
f8: Release Button to Use Dial.............................................. 343  
f9: No Memory Card? .............................................................. 344  
f10: Reverse Indicators ........................................................... 345  
B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup...............................................346  
Format Memory Card ............................................................. 347  
LCD Brightness.......................................................................... 347  
Lock Mirror up for Cleaning ................................................. 347  
Video Mode................................................................................ 348  
HDMI............................................................................................. 348  
World Time................................................................................. 349  
Language.................................................................................... 349  
Image Comment ...................................................................... 350  
Auto Image Rotation .............................................................. 351  
Voice Memo ............................................................................... 351  
Voice Memo Overwrite .......................................................... 352  
Voice Memo Button ................................................................ 352  
Audio Output ............................................................................ 352  
USB................................................................................................ 352  
Dust off Ref Photo.................................................................... 353  
Battery Info................................................................................. 355  
Wireless Transmitter ............................................................... 356  
Image Authentication ............................................................ 356  
Copyright Information ........................................................... 357  
Save/Load Settings.................................................................. 358  
GPS ................................................................................................ 360  
Virtual Horizon .......................................................................... 360  
Non-CPU Lens Data................................................................. 360  
AF Fine Tune.............................................................................. 361  
Firmware Version ..................................................................... 362  
xvi  
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N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies .............363  
D-Lighting...................................................................................366  
Red-Eye Correction..................................................................367  
Trim................................................................................................368  
Monochrome .............................................................................369  
Filter Effects................................................................................370  
Color Balance.............................................................................370  
Image Overlay............................................................................371  
Side-by-Side Comparison......................................................374  
O My Menu: Creating a Custom Menu......................................376  
Adding Options to My Menu....................................................376  
Deleting Options from My Menu ............................................378  
Reordering Options in My Menu.............................................379  
Displaying Recent Settings........................................................380  
Technical Notes  
381  
Compatible Lenses ...........................................................................382  
Other Accessories..............................................................................387  
Caring for the Camera......................................................................395  
Storage..............................................................................................395  
Cleaning ...........................................................................................395  
Replacing the Focusing Screen................................................396  
Replacing the Clock Battery......................................................398  
The Low-Pass Filter.......................................................................400  
Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions..........................403  
Troubleshooting ................................................................................407  
Error Messages ...................................................................................414  
Appendix..............................................................................................421  
Specifications......................................................................................431  
Index.......................................................................................................442  
xvii  
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For Your Safety  
To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to  
others, read the following safety precautions in their entirety before using  
this equipment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use  
the product will read them.  
The consequences that could result from failure to observe the  
precautions listed in this section are indicated by the following symbol:  
This icon marks warnings. To prevent possible injury, read all  
warnings before using this Nikon product.  
A
WARNINGS  
A Keep the sun out of the frame  
Keep the sun well out of the  
frame when shooting backlit  
subjects. Sunlight focused into  
the camera when the sun is in or  
close to the frame could cause a  
fire.  
A Turn off immediately in the event of  
malfunction  
Should you notice smoke or an  
unusual smell coming from the  
equipment or AC adapter  
(available separately), unplug  
the AC adapter and remove the  
battery immediately, taking care  
to avoid burns. Continued  
operation could result in injury.  
After removing the battery, take  
the equipment to a Nikon-  
authorized service center for  
inspection.  
A Do not look at the sun through the  
viewfinder  
Viewing the sun or other strong  
light source through the  
viewfinder could cause  
permanent visual impairment.  
A Using the viewfinder diopter control  
When operating the viewfinder  
diopter control with your eye to  
the viewfinder, care should be  
taken not to put your finger in  
your eye accidentally.  
A Do not disassemble  
Touching the product’s internal  
parts could result in injury. In  
the event of malfunction, the  
product should be repaired only  
by a qualified technician. Should  
the product break open as the  
result of a fall or other accident,  
remove the battery and/or AC  
adapter and then take the  
product to a Nikon-authorized  
service center for inspection.  
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A Do not use in the presence of  
flammable gas  
Do not immerse in or expose to  
water.  
Do not use electronic equipment  
in the presence of flammable  
gas, as this could result in  
explosion or fire.  
Replace the terminal cover when  
transporting the battery. Do not  
transport or store the battery  
with metal objects such as  
necklaces or hairpins.  
Batteries are prone to leakage  
when fully discharged. To avoid  
damage to the product, be sure  
to remove the battery when no  
charge remains.  
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.  
When the battery is not in use,  
attach the terminal cover and  
store in a cool, dry place.  
The battery may be hot  
A Observe proper precautions when  
handling batteries  
immediately after use or when  
the product has been used on  
battery power for an extended  
period. Before removing the  
battery turn the camera off and  
allow the battery to cool.  
Discontinue use immediately  
should you notice any changes  
in the battery, such as  
Batteries may leak or explode if  
improperly handled. Observe  
the following precautions when  
handling batteries for use in this  
product:  
Use only batteries approved for  
use in this equipment.  
Use only CR1616 lithium  
batteries to replace the clock  
battery. Using another type of  
battery could cause an  
discoloration or deformation.  
explosion. Dispose of used  
batteries as directed.  
Do not short or disassemble the  
battery.  
Be sure the product is off before  
replacing the battery. If you are  
using an AC adapter, be sure it is  
unplugged.  
Do not attempt to insert the  
battery upside down or  
backwards.  
Do not expose the battery to  
flame or to excessive heat.  
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A Observe proper precautions when  
handling the quick charger  
Keep dry. Failure to observe this  
precaution could result in fire or  
electric shock.  
Dust on or near the metal parts  
of the plug should be removed  
with a dry cloth. Continued use  
could result in fire.  
Do not handle the power cable  
or go near the charger during  
thunderstorms. Failure to  
observe this precaution could  
result in electric shock.  
Do not damage, modify, or  
forcibly tug or bend the power  
cable. Do not place it under  
heavy objects or expose it to  
heat or flame. Should the  
insulation be damaged and the  
wires become exposed, take the  
power cable to a Nikon-  
A Use appropriate cables  
When connecting cables to the  
input and output jacks, use only  
the cables provided or sold by  
Nikon for the purpose to  
maintain compliance with  
product regulations.  
A CD-ROMs  
CD-ROMs containing software or  
manuals should not be played  
back on audio CD equipment.  
Playing CD-ROMs on an audio  
CD player could cause hearing  
loss or damage the equipment.  
A Observe caution when using a flash  
Using optional flash units in  
close contact with the skin or  
other objects could cause burns.  
Using optional flash units close  
to the subject’s eyes could cause  
temporary visual impairment.  
Particular care should be  
authorized service  
representative for inspection.  
Failure to observe this  
precaution could result in fire or  
electric shock.  
observed when photographing  
infants, when the flash should be  
no less than one meter (39 in.)  
from the subject.  
Do not handle the plug or  
charger with wet hands. Failure  
to observe this precaution could  
result in electric shock.  
Do not use with travel converters  
or adapters designed to convert  
from one voltage to another or  
with DC-to-AC inverters. Failure  
to observe this precaution could  
damage the product or cause  
overheating or fire.  
A Avoid contact with liquid crystal  
Should the monitor break, care  
should be taken to avoid injury  
due to broken glass and to  
prevent the liquid crystal from  
the monitor touching the skin or  
entering the eyes or mouth.  
xx  
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Notices  
No part of the manuals included with this  
product may be reproduced, transmitted,  
transcribed, stored in a retrieval system,  
or translated into any language in any  
form, by any means, without Nikon’s prior  
written permission.  
Nikon will not be held liable for any  
damages resulting from the use of this  
product.  
While every effort has been made to  
ensure that the information in these  
manuals is accurate and complete, we  
would appreciate it were you to bring  
any errors or omissions to the attention  
of the Nikon representative in your area  
(address provided separately).  
Nikon reserves the right to change the  
specifications of the hardware and  
software described in these manuals at  
any time and without prior notice.  
Notices for Customers in Canada  
CAUTION  
ATTENTION  
This Class B digital apparatus complies  
with Canadian ICES-003.  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est  
conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
Notice for Customers in Europe  
CAUTION  
RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT TYPE. DISPOSE OF  
USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE INSTRUCTIONS.  
This symbol indicates that  
this product is to be collected  
separately.  
This symbol on the battery  
indicates that the battery is  
to be collected separately.  
The following apply only to  
users in European countries:  
The following apply only to  
users in European countries:  
This product is designated for separate  
collection at an appropriate collection  
point. Do not dispose of as household  
waste.  
All batteries, whether marked with this  
symbol or not, are designated for  
separate collection at an appropriate  
collection point. Do not dispose of as  
household waste.  
For more information, contact the  
retailer or the local authorities in  
charge of waste management.  
For more information, contact the  
retailer or the local authorities in  
charge of waste management.  
xxi  
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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.  
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference Statement  
This equipment has been tested and found  
to comply with the limits for a Class B digital  
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules.  
These limits are designed to provide  
reasonable protection against harmful  
D3X  
CAUTIONS  
Modifications  
interference in a residential installation.  
This equipment generates, uses, and can  
The FCC requires the user be notified that  
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not  
any changes or modifications made to this  
installed and used in accordance with the  
device that are not expressly approved by  
instructions, may cause harmful  
Nikon Corporation may void the user’s  
interference to radio communications.  
authority to operate the equipment.  
However, there is no guarantee that  
interference will not occur in a particular  
installation. If this equipment does cause  
harmful interference to radio or television  
reception, which can be determined by  
turning the equipment off and on, the user  
is encouraged to try to correct the  
interference by one or more of the  
following measures:  
Reorient or relocate the receiving  
antenna.  
Increase the separation between the  
equipment and receiver.  
Interface Cables  
Use the interface cables sold or provided  
by Nikon for your equipment. Using other  
interface cables may exceed the limits of  
Class B Part 15 of the FCC rules.  
Notice for Customers in the State of California  
WARNING: Handling the cord on this product  
may expose you to lead, a chemical known  
to the State of California to cause birth  
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash  
hands after handling.  
Connect the equipment into an outlet on  
a circuit different from that to which the  
receiver is connected.  
Nikon Inc., 1300 Walt Whitman Road,  
Melville, New York 11747-3064, U.S.A.  
Tel.: 631-547-4200  
Consult the dealer or an experienced  
radio/television technician for help.  
xxii  
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Disposing of Data Storage Devices  
Please note that deleting images or formatting memory cards or other data storage  
devices does not completely erase the original image data. Deleted files can  
sometimes be recovered from discarded storage devices using commercially  
available software, potentially resulting in the malicious use of personal image  
data. Ensuring the privacy of such data is the user’s responsibility.  
Before discarding a data storage device or transferring ownership to another  
person, erase all data using commercial deletion software, or format the device and  
then completely refill it with images containing no private information (for  
example, pictures of empty sky). Be sure to also replace any pictures selected for  
preset manual. Care should be taken to avoid injury when physically destroying  
data storage devices.  
Notice Concerning Prohibition of Copying or Reproduction  
Note that simply being in possession of material that has been digitally copied or  
reproduced by means of a scanner, digital camera, or other device may be  
punishable by law.  
Items prohibited by law from being copied or Cautions on certain copies and reproductions  
reproduced  
The government has issued cautions on  
copies or reproductions of securities  
issued by private companies (shares, bills,  
checks, gift certificates, etc.), commuter  
passes, or coupon tickets, except when a  
minimum of necessary copies are to be  
provided for business use by a company.  
Also, do not copy or reproduce passports  
issued by the government, licenses  
issued by public agencies and private  
groups, ID cards, and tickets, such as  
passes and meal coupons.  
Do not copy or reproduce paper  
money, coins, securities, government  
bonds, or local government bonds,  
even if such copies or reproductions  
are stamped “Sample.”  
The copying or reproduction of paper  
money, coins, or securities which are  
circulated in a foreign country is  
prohibited.  
Unless the prior permission of the  
government has been obtained, the  
copying or reproduction or unused  
postage stamps or post cards issued by  
the government is prohibited.  
Comply with copyright notices  
The copying or reproduction of  
copyrighted creative works such as  
books, music, paintings, woodcuts,  
prints, maps, drawings, movies, and  
photographs is governed by national  
and international copyright laws. Do  
not use this product for the purpose of  
making illegal copies or to infringe  
copyright laws.  
The copying or reproduction of stamps  
issued by the government and of  
certified documents stipulated by law  
is prohibited.  
xxiii  
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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.  
The use of non-Nikon electronic accessories could damage the  
camera and may void your Nikon warranty. The use of third-party  
rechargeable Li-ion batteries not bearing the Nikon holographic seal  
shown at right could interfere with normal operation of the camera  
or result in the batteries overheating, igniting, rupturing, or leaking.  
For more information about Nikon brand accessories, contact a local authorized  
Nikon dealer.  
A Before Taking Important Pictures  
Before taking pictures on important occasions (such as at weddings or  
before taking the camera on a trip), take a test shot to ensure that the  
camera is functioning normally. Nikon will not be held liable for damages  
or lost profits that may result from product malfunction.  
A Life-Long Learning  
As part of Nikon’s “Life-Long Learning” commitment to ongoing product  
support and education, continually-updated information is available on-  
line at the following sites:  
For users in the U.S.A.: http://www.nikonusa.com/  
For users in Europe and Africa: http://www.europe-nikon.com/support/  
For users in Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East: http://www.nikon-asia.com/  
Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information,  
tips, answers to frequently-asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on  
digital imaging and photography. Additional information may be  
available from the Nikon representative in your area. See the following  
URL for contact information: http://imaging.nikon.com/  
xxiv  
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X
Introduction  
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. 8  
The Rear Control Panel .................................................................. pg. 10  
The Viewfinder Display.................................................................. pg. 12  
The Shooting Information Display ............................................ pg. 14  
The Command Dials ....................................................................... pg. 16  
Quick Start Guide ............................................................. pg. 23  
1
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Overview  
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.  
X
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. THE USE OF NON-NIKON ACCESSORIES  
COULD DAMAGE YOUR CAMERA AND MAY VOID YOUR NIKON WARRANTY.  
D Servicing the Camera and Accessories  
The camera is a precision device and requires regular servicing. Nikon  
recommends that the camera be inspected by the original retailer or a  
Nikon-authorized service representative once every one to two years, and  
that it be serviced once every three to five years (note that fees apply to  
these services). Frequent inspection and servicing are particularly  
recommended if the camera is used professionally. Any accessories  
regularly used with the camera, such as lenses or optional flash units,  
should be included when the camera is inspected or serviced.  
2
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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 ............ 196  
6 F (command lock)  
11 Shutter-release button ...... 55, 56  
12 E (exposure compensation)  
button...........................................128  
13 Eyelet for camera strap................5  
14 I (exposure mode)  
button...........................................113  
Q (format) button..................... 45  
15 Top control panel ..........................8  
button .................................123, 124 16 Diopter adjustment knob........ 47  
7 Focal plane mark (E)................84 17 Accessory shoe ..................22, 201  
(for optional flash unit)  
18 Accessory shoe cover  
8 Metering selector..................... 111  
9 Metering selector  
lock button................................. 111  
........................................ 22, 201, 405  
10 Power switch.................................48  
3
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Camera Body (Continued)  
X
1 Mirror............................90, 102, 400 10 USB connector................. 258, 264  
2 Self-timer lamp ......................... 101 11 DC-IN connector for  
optional AC adapter EH-6......387  
12 Audio/video (A/V)  
connector....................................274  
13 HDMI connector........................276  
14 Focus-mode selector.......... 74, 83  
3 Flash sync terminal cover...... 201  
4 Ten-pin remote terminal  
cover....................................221, 392  
5 Flash sync terminal.................. 201  
6 Ten-pin remote  
terminal ..............................221, 392 15 Battery-cover latch..................... 34  
7 USB connector cover .....258, 264 16 Battery-chamber cover............. 34  
8 Lens release button....................38 17 Meter coupling lever...............433  
9 Connector cover..............274, 276 18 Body cap ......................................391  
4
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X
1 Depth-of-field preview  
button .................................113, 339  
6 Vertical shooting shutter-  
release button lock .................... 54  
2 Sub-command dial.....................16 7 CPU contacts  
3 Fn button .....................64, 199, 333 8 Mounting index .......................... 37  
4 Sub-command dial for  
9 Lens mount................................... 84  
vertical shooting .........................16  
5 Shutter-release button for  
vertical shooting .........................54  
10 Tripod socket  
Attaching the Camera Strap  
Attach the camera strap securely to the two eyelets on the camera  
body as shown below.  
5
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Camera Body (Continued)  
X
1 Viewfinder eyepiece...................47 9 J (OK) button.............................. 28  
2 Eyepiece shutter lever...............47 10 Speaker.........................................254  
3 O (delete) button............... 58, 245 11 Rear control panel.............10, 323  
Q (format) button.....................45  
12 ISO (ISO sensitivity) button.....104  
4 K (playback) button ....... 57, 226  
Two-button reset button.......204  
5 Monitor.......................... 57, 90, 226 13 QUAL (image quality/size)  
button...................................... 67, 71  
14 WB (white balance)  
6 G (menu) button.......... 26, 277  
7 N (thumbnail/playback  
button........................141, 146, 147  
Two-button reset button.......204  
15 Microphone................................248  
zoom) button ...................242, 243  
8 L (protect) button ............... 244  
? (help) button..............................31  
R (info) button............................14  
D The Speaker and Microphone  
Do not bring magnetic devices, such as microdrive cards, close to the  
built-in speaker or microphone.  
6
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X
1 Viewfinder .....................................47 9 Card slot cover release button  
(under cover)................................ 42  
.......................................... 80, 81, 340 10 B (AF-ON) button for  
2 A (AE/AF lock) button  
vertical shooting.......................313  
3 B (AF-ON) button ..........75, 94  
4 Main command dial ...................16  
5 Multi selector................................28  
6 Focus selector lock .....................78  
11 H (microphone) button..........249  
12 AF-area mode selector ............. 76  
13 Main command dial for  
vertical shooting......................... 16  
7
Memory card access lamp....43, 56  
8 Memory card slot cover.....42, 44  
7
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The Top Control Panel  
1
2
3
11  
12  
X
4
5
13  
6
7
14  
15  
8
9
10  
1 Shutter speed...................116, 120 9 Memory card indicator  
Exposure compensation  
(slot 2) ...................................... 42, 45  
value ............................................. 128  
Number of shots in  
exposure and flash bracketing  
sequence..................................... 131  
Number of shots in  
WB bracketing sequence ...... 135  
Number of intervals for  
interval timer photography .... 214  
Focal length  
(non-CPU lenses)...................... 220  
ISO sensitivity............................ 104  
2 Shutter-speed lock icon......... 123  
3 Flexible program indicator ... 115  
4 Exposure mode......................... 112  
5 Flash mode................................. 194  
6 Shooting menu bank.............. 291  
7 Custom settings bank............. 304  
8 Memory card indicator  
10 Number of exposures  
remaining...................................... 49  
Number of shots remaining  
before memory buffer fills ...... 88  
Capture mode indicator.........256  
11 Aperture stop indicator .. 119, 385  
12 Aperture (f-number)...... 118, 120  
Aperture (number of  
stops)................................... 119, 385  
Exposure and flash bracketing  
increment....................................132  
WB bracketing increment......136  
Number of shots per  
interval .........................................214  
Maximum aperture  
(non-CPU lenses) ......................220  
PC mode indicator....................259  
(slot 1).......................................42, 45  
8
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21  
22  
16  
17  
X
23  
24  
25  
26  
18  
19  
27  
28  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
20  
29  
13 Battery indicator..........................48 24 Image comment indicator ....350  
14 Frame count..................................49 25 “Beep” indicator ........................320  
Preset white balance  
26 Exposure compensation  
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 ... 41, 398  
19 GPS connection indicator ..... 223  
20 Focus mode indicator................74  
21 Interval timer indicator.......... 214  
22 Multiple exposure  
indicator.......................................128  
27 Exposure and flash bracketing  
indicator.......................................131  
28 White-balance bracketing  
indicator.......................................135  
29 Electronic analog exposure  
display ..........................................122  
Exposure compensation ........128  
Exposure and flash bracketing  
progress indicator ....................131  
WB bracketing progress  
indicator.......................................135  
PC connection indicator ........259  
Tilt indicator................................335  
indicator....................................... 208  
23 Aperture lock icon ................... 124  
9
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The Rear Control Panel  
1
2
3
8
X
9
10  
11  
4
5
6
7
12  
A LCD Illuminators  
Rotating the power switch toward D  
activates the exposure meters and the  
control panel backlights (LCD  
Power switch  
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.  
10  
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1 Image quality (JPEG images) ..67 6 “K” (appears when memory  
remains for over 1000  
exposures)..................................... 49  
Color temperature  
indicator.......................................147 X  
7 Memory card slot indicators... 72  
Image quality............................... 67  
8 White-balance bracketing  
indicator.......................................135  
9 Voice memo recording  
2 “Remaining” indicator ...............49  
3 Image size......................................71  
4 ISO sensitivity indicator ......... 104  
Auto ISO sensitivity  
indicator ...................................... 106  
5 ISO sensitivity............................ 104  
ISO sensitivity (high/low gain)  
........................................................ 105  
Number of exposures  
indicator (shooting mode)....249  
remaining ......................................49  
Length of voice memo........... 251 10 Voice memo status  
White balance fine-tuning.... 146  
White balance preset  
indicator............................. 251, 252  
11 Voice memo recording  
number........................................ 158  
Color temperature................... 147  
PC mode indicator................... 259  
mode.............................................249  
12 White balance............................140  
White balance fine-tuning  
indicator.......................................146  
11  
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The Viewfinder Display  
3
2
1
X
21  
22  
23  
4
5
6
7 8  
9
10 11 12  
13  
14 15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
1 12-mm reference circle for  
7 Exposure mode .........................112  
8 Shutter speed lock icon..........123  
9 Shutter-speed.................. 116, 120  
10 Aperture lock icon....................124  
11 Aperture (f-number)...... 118, 120  
Aperture  
center-weighted metering ... 110  
2 AF area brackets ...................47, 92  
3 Focus points........................ 78, 311  
Spot metering targets............ 110  
4 Focus indicator......................55, 84  
5 Metering...................................... 110  
6 Autoexposure (AE) lock ......... 125  
(number of stops)........... 119, 385  
12  
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12 ISO sensitivity indicator ......... 104 16 Flash-ready indicator *.............199  
Auto ISO sensitivity  
17 FV lock indicator .......................199  
18 Flash sync indicator .................326  
19 Aperture stop indicator .. 119, 385  
20 Battery indicator ......................... 48  
21 Electronic analog exposure  
display ..........................................122  
Exposure compensation display  
.........................................................128  
Tilt indicator................................335  
22 Exposure compensation  
indicator ...................................... 106  
13 ISO sensitivity............................ 104  
14 Frame count..................................49  
Number of exposures  
X
remaining ......................................49  
Number of shots remaining  
before memory buffer fills.......88  
Preset white balance  
recording indicator.................. 151  
Exposure compensation  
indicator.......................................128  
23 Exposure and flash bracketing  
indicator.......................................131  
value ............................................. 128  
PC mode indicator................... 259  
15 “K” (appears when memory  
remains for over 1000  
exposures) .....................................49  
* Displayed when an optional flash unit is attached (pg. 187). The flash-  
ready indicator lights when the flash is charged.  
D No Battery  
When the battery is totally exhausted or no battery is inserted, the display  
in the viewfinder will dim. This is normal and does not indicate a  
malfunction. The viewfinder display will return to normal when a fully-  
charged battery is inserted.  
D The Control Panel and Viewfinder Displays  
The brightness of the control panel and viewfinder displays varies with  
temperature, and the response times of the displays may drop at low  
temperatures. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.  
13  
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The Shooting Information Display  
Shooting information, including shutter  
speed, aperture, the number of exposures  
remaining, and AF-area mode is displayed in  
the monitor when the R button is pressed.  
R
button  
X
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
16  
9
15  
14  
10  
11  
13  
12  
17 18 19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
25  
26  
27  
38  
37  
36  
28  
29  
30  
35  
34 33 32 31  
A See Also  
For information on choosing how long the monitor stays on, see Custom  
Setting c4 ([Monitor off delay], pg. 319). For information on changing the  
color of the lettering in the shooting information display, see Custom  
Setting d6 ([Shooting info display], pg. 324).  
14  
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1 Exposure mode......................... 112 16 Flash sync indicator .................326  
2 Flexible program indicator ... 115 17 Flash mode..................................194  
3 Shutter-speed lock icon......... 123 18 Clock battery indicator....41, 398  
4 Shutter speed...................116, 120 19 FV lock indicator .......................199  
X
Exposure compensation  
20 Interval timer indicator...........214  
21 Image comment indicator ....350  
22 Copyright information  
indicator.......................................357  
23 “Beep” indicator ........................320  
24 Exposure compensation  
indicator.......................................128  
25 Battery indicator ......................... 48  
26 Exposure and flash bracketing  
indicator.......................................131  
WB bracketing indicator ........135  
27 Focus mode indicator ............... 74  
28 Long exposure noise reduction  
indicator.......................................300  
29 Color space indicator ..............183  
30 Picture Control indicator........165  
31 Active D-Lighting indicator...181  
32 High ISO noise reduction  
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)...................... 220  
Multiple exposure indicator.... 208  
5
6 Aperture lock icon ................... 124  
7 Aperture (f-number) ......118, 120  
Aperture  
(number of stops) ...........119, 385  
Exposure and flash bracketing  
increment ................................... 132  
WB bracketing increment ..... 136  
Maximum aperture  
(non-CPU lenses)...................... 220  
indicator.......................................300  
33 Vignette control ........................299  
34 Release mode (single frame/  
continuous) indicator................ 86  
Continuous shooting speed....321  
35 Auto-area AF indicator ............. 77  
Focus points indicator .............. 78  
AF-area mode indicator ........... 77  
3D-tracking indicator.......77, 308  
36 Image area indicator ................. 61  
37 GPS connection indicator......223  
38 Electronic analog exposure  
display ..........................................122  
8
Aperture stop indicator...119, 385  
9 Number of exposures  
remaining ......................................49  
10 “K” (appears when memory  
remains for over 1000  
exposures) .....................................49  
11 Frame count..................................49  
Manual lens number............... 220  
12 Memory card indicator  
(slot 2).......................................42, 45  
13 Memory card indicator  
(slot 1).......................................42, 45  
14 Custom settings bank............. 304  
15 Shooting menu bank.............. 291  
15  
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The Command Dials  
The main- and sub-command dials are used alone or in  
combination with other controls to adjust a variety of settings.  
X
Fn button  
Sub-command  
dial  
BKT button  
E button  
M button  
I button  
Main command  
dial  
F button  
ISO button  
QUAL button WB button  
16  
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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  
Rear control panel  
Choose an image  
size (pg. 71)  
+
QUAL button Sub-command dial  
ISO Sensitivity  
Press the ISO button and rotate the main command dial.  
Set ISO  
sensitivity (pg.  
104)  
+
ISO button  
Main command dial  
Rear control panel  
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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  
+
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
e; pg. 115)  
Exposure  
Main  
Top control panel  
mode e  
command dial  
Choose a shutter  
speed (exposure  
mode for h; pg.  
116, 121)  
+
+
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
Exposure  
mode for h  
Main  
Top control panel  
command dial  
Choose an  
aperture  
(exposure  
mode gor h;  
pg. 118, 121)  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
Exposure  
mode gor h  
Sub-command  
dial  
Top control panel  
18  
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Set exposure  
compensation  
(pg. 128)  
+
X
E button  
Main command dial  
Top control panel  
Shutter speed  
lock (exposure  
mode for h;  
pg. 123)  
+
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
F button  
Main command dial  
Top control panel  
Aperture lock  
(exposure  
mode gor h;  
pg. 124)  
+
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
F button  
Sub-command dial  
Top control panel  
19  
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Activate or  
cancel  
bracketing/  
select number  
of shots in  
bracketing  
sequence (pp.  
131, 134)  
+
X
D button Main command dial  
Top control panel  
Select  
bracketing  
exposure  
increment (pg.  
132)  
+
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  
Main command dial  
Rear control panel  
Rear control panel  
Fine-tune  
white balance  
(pg. 146), set  
color  
temperature  
(pg. 147), or  
choose a white  
balance preset  
(pg. 158)  
+
WB button  
Sub-command dial  
20  
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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. 333), the Fn button and command dials can be used to select  
from FX, DX, and 5 : 4 image areas, toggle between FX and DX image  
areas, select shutter speed and aperture in steps of 1 EV, choose pre-  
specified lens data for non-CPU lenses, select the focus point, choose a  
shooting menu bank, or select the number of focus points for dynamic-  
area AF.  
A The Depth-of-Field Preview and AE-L/AF-L Buttons  
Depending on the options selected for Custom Settings f5 ([Assign  
preview button], pg. 339) and f6 ([Assign AE-L/AF-L button], pg. 340), the  
depth-of-field preview and AE-L/AF-L buttons can be used with the  
command dials to perform the same functions as the Fn button.  
21  
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The BS-2 Accessory Shoe Cover  
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.  
X
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.  
22  
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Quick Start Guide  
Follow these steps for a quick start with the D3X.  
X
1
2
3
Charge the battery (pg. 32).  
Insert the battery (pg. 34).  
Attach a lens (pg. 37).  
Mounting  
index  
4
5
Insert a memory card (pg. 42).  
Turn the camera on (pg. 48).  
Back  
For information on choosing a language  
and setting the time and date, see page 39.  
See page 47 for information on adjusting  
viewfinder focus.  
23  
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6
Check camera settings (pp. 48, 51).  
Battery level  
Exposure  
Image size  
White balance  
mode  
X
Number of exposures  
remaining  
Frame  
count  
ISO sensitivity Image quality  
Rear control panel  
Top control panel  
7
8
Select single-servo autofocus (pg. 53, 74).  
Rotate the focus-mode selector to S (single-servo autofocus).  
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  
Focus indicator  
down to take the photograph.  
9
View the  
photograph (pg. 57).  
K button  
10 Delete unwanted  
photos (pg. 58).  
Press O twice to delete  
the current  
photograph.  
O button  
24  
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s
Tutorial  
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 .......................................................................... pg. 32  
Charge the Battery .......................................................................... pg. 32  
Insert the Battery............................................................................. pg. 34  
Attach a Lens..................................................................................... pg. 37  
Basic Setup......................................................................................... pg. 39  
Insert a Memory Card..................................................................... pg. 42  
Formatting Memory Cards........................................................... pg. 45  
Adjust Viewfinder Focus................................................................ pg. 47  
Basic Photography and Playback...................................pg. 48  
Turn the Camera On ....................................................................... pg. 48  
Adjust Camera Settings................................................................. pg. 51  
Ready the Camera ........................................................................... pg. 54  
Focus and Shoot .............................................................................. pg. 55  
Viewing Photographs..................................................................... pg. 57  
Deleting Unwanted Photographs ............................................. pg. 58  
25  
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Camera Menus  
Most shooting, playback, and setup options G button  
can be accessed from the camera menus. To  
view the menus, press the G button.  
s
Tabs  
Slider shows position in current  
menu.  
Choose from playback, shooting,  
Custom Settings, setup, retouch,  
and My menus (see following  
page).  
Current settings  
are shown by  
icons.  
Q
Menu options  
If “Q” icon is displayed, help for  
current item can be viewed by  
pressing L (Q) button (pg. 31).  
Options in current menu.  
26  
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Menus  
The following menus are available:  
Menu  
Description  
Adjust playback settings and manage photos (pg.  
278).  
D Playback  
C Shooting  
Adjust shooting settings (pg. 290).  
s
A Custom Settings Personalize camera settings (pg. 302).  
Format memory cards and perform basic camera  
setup (pg. 346).  
B
Setup  
Create retouched copies of existing photographs  
(pg. 363).  
N Retouch  
Create a menu of custom options (pg. 376). If  
desired, a menu of recently-used settings can be  
displayed in place of [My Menu] (pg. 380).  
O My Menu  
27  
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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  
Cancel and return  
to previous menu  
highlighted item  
or display sub-  
menu  
J button  
Select highlighted  
item  
Move cursor  
down  
Navigating the Menus  
Follow the steps below to navigate the menus.  
G button  
1 Display the menus.  
Press the G button to display the  
menus.  
2 Highlight the icon for the  
current menu.  
Press 4to highlight the icon  
for the current menu.  
28  
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3 Select a menu.  
Press 1or 3to select the desired menu.  
s
4 Position the cursor in the  
selected menu.  
Press 2to position the cursor  
in the selected menu.  
5 Highlight a menu item.  
Press 1or 3to highlight a  
menu item.  
6 Display options.  
Press 2to display options for  
the selected menu item.  
7 Highlight an option.  
Press 1or 3to highlight an  
option.  
29  
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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 2or 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).  
30  
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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 1or 3to scroll through  
the display.  
s
L button  
31  
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First Steps  
Charge the Battery  
The D3X is powered by an EN-EL4a rechargeable Li-ion battery  
(supplied).  
s
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.  
2 Remove the terminal cover.  
Remove the terminal cover from the  
battery.  
3 Remove the contact protector.  
Remove the contact protector of the  
quick charger’s battery chambers.  
32  
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4 Charge the battery.  
Chamber  
lamps  
Contacts  
Charge  
lamps  
s
(green)  
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. The chamber lamp  
and charge lamps will blink while the battery charges:  
Charge lamps  
80%  
H (blinks) H (blinks) I (off)  
Chamber  
lamp  
Charge state  
Less than 50% of maximum capacity  
50–80% of maximum capacity  
More than 80% but less than 100% of  
maximum capacity  
50%  
100%  
I (off)  
H (blinks) K (glows) H (blinks) I (off)  
H (blinks) K (glows) K (glows) H (blinks)  
100% of maximum capacity  
K (glows) I (off)  
I (off)  
I (off)  
Charging is complete when the chamber lamp stops blinking  
and the charge lamps turn off. About two hours and twenty-  
five minutes are required to fully charge an exhausted battery.  
5 Remove the battery when charging is complete.  
Remove the battery and unplug the charger.  
A Calibration  
See page 437 for more information on calibration.  
33  
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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. Insert the two  
projections on the battery into the  
matching slots in the cover and slide the  
battery release to reveal the arrow.  
A The BL-4 Battery-Chamber Cover  
The battery can be charged with the BL-4  
attached. To prevent dust from accumulating  
inside the battery chamber when the battery  
is not inserted, slide the battery release in the direction indicated by  
the arrow (4), remove the BL-4 from the battery, and replace it on the  
camera.  
The BL-1 battery-chamber cover for D2-series cameras can not be  
used.  
34  
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4 Insert the battery.  
Insert the battery as shown at right.  
s
5 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).  
The [Battery info] option in the setup menu details battery charge, battery  
life, and the number of pictures taken since the battery was last charged  
(pg. 355). The battery can be recalibrated as necessary to ensure that  
battery level continues to be reported accurately (pg. 437).  
35  
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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.  
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). Battery capacity may temporarily drop if  
the battery is charged at low temperatures or used at a temperature  
below the temperature at which it was charged. If the battery is charged  
at a temperature below 5°C (41°F), the battery life indicator in the [Battery  
info] display may show a temporary decrease.  
s
The battery may be hot immediately after use. Wait for the battery to cool  
before recharging.  
Use the charger with compatible batteries only. Unplug when not in use.  
A Compatible Batteries  
The camera can also be used with EN-EL4 rechargeable Li-ion batteries.  
A Removing the Battery  
Before removing the battery, turn the camera off  
and lift the battery-chamber cover latch, turn it to  
the open (A) position. To prevent short-circuits,  
replace the terminal cover when the battery is not  
in use.  
36  
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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.  
s
After confirming that the camera is off, remove the rear lens  
cap from the lens and remove the camera body cap.  
2 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. Being careful not to press the lens-  
release button, rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks  
into place.  
Mounting  
index  
If the lens is equipped with an A-M or  
M/A-M switch, select A (autofocus) or M/  
A (autofocus with manual priority).  
37  
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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/1.4D lens is used in this manual for illustrative  
purposes.  
Mounting index  
Lens cap  
CPU contacts (pg. 384)  
Aperture ring  
A-M mode switch (pg. 37)  
Focus ring (pg. 83)  
A Image Area  
The DX format image area is automatically  
selected when a DX lens is attached.  
Image area  
38  
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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.  
Power switch  
s
2 Select [Language].  
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 1or 3to highlight the  
desired language and press J.  
39  
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4 Select [World time].  
Select [World time] and press  
2.  
s
5 Set time zone.  
A time-zone selection dialog  
will be displayed. Press 4or 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. Daylight  
saving time is off by default; if  
daylight saving time is in effect in the local time zone, press 1  
to highlight [On] and press J.  
7 Set the date and time.  
The dialog shown at right will  
be displayed. Press 4or 2to  
select an item, 1or 3to  
change. Press J when the  
clock is set to the current date  
and time.  
40  
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8 Set date format.  
Press 1or 3to choose the  
order in which the year, month,  
and day will be displayed and  
press J.  
s
9 Exit to shooting mode.  
Press the shutter-release button halfway  
to exit to shooting mode.  
A The BIcon  
If a flashing Bicon 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.  
A The Clock Battery  
The camera clock is powered by a separate, non-rechargeable CR1616  
lithium battery with a life of about four years. When this battery is  
exhausted, a Bicon will be displayed in the top control panel while the  
exposure meters are on. For information on replacing the clock battery,  
see page 398.  
A The Camera Clock  
The camera clock is less accurate than most watches and household  
clocks. Check the clock regularly against more accurate time pieces and  
reset as necessary.  
41  
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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.  
Open the door protecting the card-slot  
cover release button (q) and press the  
release button (w) to open the card slot  
(e).  
A Memory Card Slots  
Slot 1 is for the main card; the card in slot 2 plays a  
backup or secondary role. If the default setting of  
[Overflow] is selected for [Slot 2] (pg. 72) when  
two memory cards are inserted, the card in slot 2  
will only be used when the card in slot 1 is full.  
Slot 1  
Slot 2  
The card currently in use is indicated in the top  
control panel.  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
42  
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3 Insert the memory card.  
Access lamp  
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.  
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. Check  
to be sure that the card is in the correct  
orientation.  
Direction of  
insertion  
Terminals  
Rear label  
4 Close the card slot cover.  
43  
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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. Observe due caution when  
removing memory cards from the camera.  
Memory cards that have been formatted in a computer or other device  
must be reformatted in the camera before they can be used for  
recording or playback.  
Turn the power off before inserting or removing memory cards. Do not  
remove memory cards from the camera, turn the camera off, or remove  
or disconnect the power source during formatting or while data are  
being recorded, deleted, or copied to a computer. Failure to observe  
these precautions could result in loss of data or in damage to the camera  
or card.  
Do not touch the card terminals with your fingers or metal objects.  
Do not bend, drop, or subject to strong physical shocks.  
Do not apply force to the card casing. Failure to observe this precaution  
could damage the card.  
Do not expose to water, high levels of humidity, or direct sunlight.  
44  
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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).  
s
1 Turn the camera on.  
Power switch  
2 Press the Q buttons.  
O button  
I button  
Hold the Q (I and O)  
buttons down simultaneously  
for more than two seconds.  
A blinking C will appear in the  
shutter-speed displays in the  
viewfinder and top control panel. If  
two memory cards are inserted, the  
main command dial can be used to  
select the card to be formatted;  
check that the correct card is  
SHOOT  
selected in the top control panel  
before proceeding. To exit without formatting the memory  
card, press any button other than the Q (I and O) buttons.  
45  
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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.  
When formatting is complete, the top  
control panel will show the number of  
s
photographs that can be recorded at  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
current settings and the frame-count  
displays will show B.  
A No Memory Card  
If no memory card is inserted, the top control  
panel and viewfinder will show S. If the  
camera is turned off with a charged EN-EL4a  
battery and no memory card inserted, Swill  
be displayed in the top control panel.  
A See Also  
See page 347 for information on formatting  
memory cards using the [Format memory card] option in the setup menu.  
46  
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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.  
Push the diopter adjustment knob back  
in (e).  
A Diopter Adjustment Viewfinder Lenses  
Corrective lenses (available separately; pg. 389)  
can be used to further adjust viewfinder diopter.  
Before attaching a diopter-adjustment viewfinder  
lens, remove the DK-17 viewfinder eyepiece by  
closing the viewfinder shutter to release the  
eyepiece lock (q) and then unscrewing the  
eyepiece as shown at right (w).  
47  
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Basic Photography and Playback  
Turn the Camera On  
Before taking photographs, turn the camera on and check the  
battery level and number of exposures remaining as described  
below.  
s
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
K
J
I
Battery fully charged.  
Battery partially discharged.  
Low battery. Prepare to charge battery  
or ready spare battery.  
H
d
H
(blinks)  
d
Shutter release disabled. Charge or  
(blinks) exchange battery.  
* No icon displayed when camera is powered by optional AC adapter.  
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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  
Nicon will flash in the top control  
panel and a flashing g icon will  
s
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
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 Large-Capacity Memory Cards  
When enough memory remains on the memory  
card to record a thousand or more pictures at  
current settings, the number of exposures  
remaining will be shown in thousands, rounded  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
down to the nearest hundred (e.g., if there is  
room for approximately 1,260 exposures, the  
exposure count display will show 1.2 K).  
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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 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.  
Press the shutter-release button halfway to reactivate the display in the  
viewfinder (pg. 56).  
s
6 s  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
Exposure meters on Exposure meters off  
Exposure meters on  
The length of time before the exposure meters turn off automatically can  
be adjusted using Custom Setting c2 ([Auto meter-off delay], pg. 318).  
A Camera Off Display  
If the camera is turned off with a battery and  
memory card inserted, the frame count and  
number of exposures remaining will be displayed  
(some memory cards may only display this  
Top control panel  
information when the camera is on).  
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Adjust Camera Settings  
This tutorial describes how to take photos at default settings.  
1 Check camera settings.  
Exposure  
mode  
Image size  
White balance  
s
ISO sensitivity Image quality  
Rear control panel  
Top control panel  
Default settings are listed below.  
Option  
Default  
Description  
Page  
NORM  
(JPEG  
normal)  
L
Record JPEG images at a compression ratio  
Image  
quality  
of roughly 1 : 8*. Ideal for snapshots.  
66  
* [Size priority] selected for [JPEG compression].  
FX format images are 6,048 × 4,032 pixels  
in size.  
Image size  
70  
(Large)  
ISO  
sensitivity  
White  
balance  
ISO sensitivity (digital equivalent of film  
speed) set to ISO 100.  
White balance is adjusted automatically for  
natural colors under most types of lighting.  
100  
104  
140  
v
(Auto)  
e
Camera automatically adjusts shutter  
Exposure  
mode  
(Programmed speed and aperture for optimal exposure  
112  
78  
auto)  
in most situations.  
Centerfocus  
point  
(single-  
Focus  
point  
Focus point  
point AF)  
Viewfinder focus point display is shown  
above. Camera focuses on subject in  
center focus point when shutter-release  
button is pressed halfway.  
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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 dial  
lock release  
release mode.  
Hold the release mode dial lock  
release down and turn the  
release mode dial to S (single  
frame). At this setting, the  
camera will take one  
photograph each time the  
shutter-release button is  
pressed.  
Release mode dial  
4 Choose single-point AF.  
AF-area mode  
selector  
Rotate the AF-area mode  
selector until it clicks into place  
pointing to K (single-point  
AF). At this setting, the user  
can choose the focus point.  
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5 Choose single-servo  
Focus-mode  
selector  
autofocus.  
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  
s
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.  
Metering selector  
Press the metering selector  
lock button and rotate the  
metering selector to Y (matrix  
metering). Matrix metering  
uses information from the  
1,005-segment RGB sensor to  
ensure optimal results for the  
entire frame.  
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Ready the Camera  
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.  
s
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.  
For information on framing photographs in  
the monitor, see page 90.  
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Focus and Shoot  
1 Press the shutter-  
release button  
halfway to focus (pg.  
56).  
s
At default settings, the  
camera will focus on the  
subject in the center  
focus point. Frame a  
photo in the viewfinder  
Focus  
indicator  
Buffer  
capacity  
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
Description  
Subject in focus.  
2
Focus point is between camera and subject.  
Focus point is behind subject.  
4
Camera unable to focus on subject in focus  
point using autofocus.  
2 4  
(blinks)  
While the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, focus will  
lock and the number of exposures that can be stored in the  
memory buffer (“t”; pg. 88) will be shown in the viewfinder  
display.  
For information on what to do if the camera is unable to focus  
using autofocus, see “Getting Good Results with Autofocus”  
(pg. 82).  
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2 Press the shutter-release  
button the rest of the way  
down to shoot.  
Smoothly press the shutter-  
release-button the rest of the  
way down to take the picture.  
While the photograph is being  
s
Access lamp  
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.  
A The Shutter-Release Button  
The camera has a two-stage shutter-release button. The camera focuses  
when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. To take the  
photograph, press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down.  
Focus  
Take  
photograph  
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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 4or 2.  
To view additional information  
on the current photograph,  
press 1and 3(pg. 229).  
1/10  
N
I
KO  
N
D3X  
,
.
1
125 F5  
6
100  
85mm  
/
0. 0  
AUTO 0,  
100NCD  
0
_
.
3
X
D
S
C
0001 JP  
G
RRMAL  
604N8Ox4032  
:
:
15  
/
12 2008 10 15 00  
/
The card containing the  
current photograph is indicated by an  
icon as shown at right.  
To end playback and return to shooting  
mode, press the shutter-release button halfway.  
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.  
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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.  
1 Display the photograph.  
s
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.  
O button  
Press the O button again to delete the image and return to  
playback. To exit without deleting the picture, press K.  
A [Delete]  
To delete multiple images or to delete images from the second of two  
memory cards, use the [Delete] option in the playback menu (pg. 281).  
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d
Image 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....................................................................................pg. 72  
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Image Area  
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.  
d
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. The [Choose image area] option can be  
used to select a 35mm picture angle or to crop photographs to the  
DX format picture angle or to a 5 : 4 aspect ratio.  
Auto DX Crop  
Choose whether to automatically select a DX crop when a DX lens  
is attached.  
Option  
On  
Description  
Camera automatically selects DX crop when DX lens is  
(default) attached.  
Off Crop selected for [Choose image area] is used.  
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Choose Image Area  
Choose the image area used when [Off] is selected for [Auto DX  
crop] (pg. 63).  
Option  
Description  
Images are recorded in FX  
format using the full area of the  
image sensor (35.9 × 24.0 mm),  
producing a picture angle  
equivalent to a Nikkor lens on a  
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  
format. To calculate the  
approximate focal length of the  
lens in 35mm format, multiply  
by 1.5.  
FX format  
(36x24)  
d
c
a
b
DX format  
(24x16)  
Pictures are recorded with an  
aspect ratio of 5 : 4  
(30.0 × 24.0 mm). The edges of  
pictures taken with DX format  
lenses will be blacked out.  
5:4  
(30x24)  
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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.  
d
DX format (24 × 16)  
image circle  
DX format  
5 : 4  
FX format  
FX format (36 × 24)  
image circle  
A The Viewfinder Display  
The DX format and 5 :4 crops are shown below.  
DX format  
5 : 4  
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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.  
d
2 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).  
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The Fn Button  
The image area can be selected  
by pressing the Fn button and  
rotating the main or sub-  
command 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).  
Fn button  
Main command  
dial  
d
The option currently selected for image area  
can be viewed by pressing the Fn button to  
display the image area in the top control  
panel or shooting information display. FX  
format is displayed as “36 × 24, DX format as  
“24 × 16, and 5 : 4 as “30 × 24.  
A Information Display (pg. 14)  
The current image area selection can be viewed  
by pressing the R button to display shooting  
information in the monitor. c is displayed when  
[FX format (36 × 24)] is selected, a when [DX  
format (24 × 16)] is selected, and b when [5 : 4  
(30 × 24)] is selected.  
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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). Note that some “button press” options can not be d  
combined with options using “+dials.”  
A Image Size  
Image size varies with the option selected for image area.  
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Image Quality  
The camera supports the following image quality options.  
Option  
File type  
Description  
Raw data from the image sensor are saved  
directly to the memory card in Nikon Electronic  
Format (NEF). Use with images that will be  
transferred to a computer for printing or  
processing. Note that once transferred to a  
computer, NEF (RAW) images can only be  
viewed using compatible software such as  
ViewNX (supplied) or Capture NX 2 (available  
separately; pg. 391).  
d
NEF (RAW)  
NEF  
Record uncompressed TIFF-RGB images at a bit  
depth of 8 bits per channel (24-bit color). TIFF is  
(RGB) supported by a wide variety of imaging  
applications.  
TIFF  
TIFF (RGB)  
JPEG fine  
Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of  
roughly 1:4 (fine image quality). *  
Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of  
roughly 1:8 (normal image quality). *  
JPEG  
JPEG normal  
JPEG basic  
Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of  
roughly 1:16 (basic image quality). *  
NEF (RAW)+  
JPEG fine  
Two images are recorded, one NEF (RAW) image  
and one fine-quality JPEG image.  
NEF (RAW)+  
NEF/ Two images are recorded, one NEF (RAW) image  
JPEG normal JPEG and one normal-quality JPEG image.  
NEF (RAW)+  
JPEG basic  
Two images are recorded, one NEF (RAW) image  
and one basic-quality JPEG image.  
* [Size priority] selected for [JPEG compression].  
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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.  
A JPEG Compression  
JPEG images can be compressed for relatively uniform file size or optimal  
image quality. The [JPEG compression] option in the shooting menu can  
be used to choose the type of compression (pg. 68).  
A NEF (RAW)+JPEG  
If only one memory card is used, only the JPEG image will be displayed  
when photographs taken at [NEF (RAW) + JPEG fine], [NEF (RAW) + JPEG  
normal], or [NEF (RAW) + JPEG basic] are viewed on the camera. Deleting  
the JPEG image deletes the NEF (RAW) copy. If two memory cards are  
inserted and [RAW Slot 1-JPEG Slot 2] is selected for Slot 2, deleting the  
JPEG copy from the memory card in slot 2 has no effect on the NEF (RAW)  
copy on the memory card in slot 1 (pg. 72).  
A The Image Quality Menu  
Image quality can also be adjusted using the [Image quality] option in the  
shooting menu (pg. 290).  
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The JPEG Compression Menu  
The [JPEG compression] item in the shooting menu offers the  
following options for JPEG images:  
Option  
Description  
Images are compressed to produce relatively  
uniform file size. Quality varies with scene  
recorded.  
Size priority  
(default)  
O
P
Optimal image quality. File size varies with  
scene recorded.  
d
Optimal quality  
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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 non-  
reversible algorithm, reducing file size by about  
40–55% with almost no effect on image quality.  
d
O Compressed  
Uncompressed NEF images are not compressed.  
The NEF (RAW) Recording Menu: NEF (RAW) Bit Depth  
The [NEF (RAW) recording] > [NEF (RAW) bit depth] item in the  
shooting menu offers the following bit-depth options for NEF  
(RAW) images:  
Option  
12-bit  
(default)  
Description  
q
NEF (RAW) images are recorded at a bit-depth of 12 bits.  
NEF (RAW) images are recorded at a bit-depth of 14 bits,  
r 14-bit producing files larger than 12-bit files but increasing the  
color data recorded.  
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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  
Option  
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 × 25.6/15.1 × 10.1  
50.4 × 33.5/19.8 × 13.2  
37.8 × 25.1/14.9 × 9.9  
25.2 × 16.8/ 9.9 × 6.6  
64.2 × 51.2/25.3 × 20.2  
48.2 × 38.4/19.0 × 15.1  
32.1 × 25.6/12.6 × 10.1  
L
M
S
L
M
S
L
M
S
FX format  
(36 × 24)  
d
DX format  
(24 × 16)  
5 : 4 (30 × 24)  
* Approximate size when printed at 200 dpi. Print size in inches equals image  
size in pixels divided by printer resolution in dots per inch (dpi;  
1 inch = approximately 2.54 cm). Print size decreases as printer resolution  
increases.  
A NEF (RAW) Images  
Note that the option selected for image size does not affect the size of NEF  
(RAW) images. When opened in software such as ViewNX (supplied) or  
Capture NX 2 (available separately), NEF (RAW) images have the  
dimensions given for large (L-size) images in the table above.  
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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).  
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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  
Rear control panel  
Description  
The memory card in slot 2 is  
used to record photographs  
when the memory card in slot  
1 is full.  
Overflow  
(default)  
X
Y
d
Each photograph is recorded  
to both memory cards.  
Backup  
At image quality settings of  
NEF (RAW)+JPEG, the NEF  
(RAW) image is recorded to  
the memory card in slot 1, the  
JPEG image to the memory  
card in slot 2. At other image  
qualities, this option is the  
same as [Backup].  
RAW Slot 1-  
JPEG Slot 2  
Z
D Backup/RAW Slot 1-JPEG Slot 2  
When the above options are selected, the shutter-release will be disabled  
when either of the memory cards is full. The viewfinder and top control  
panel show the number of exposures remaining on the card with the least  
amount of available memory. Voice memos (pg. 250) are appended to the  
copy recorded to the memory card in slot 1.  
72  
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N
Focus  
– 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 .....................................................................pg. 83  
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Focus Mode  
Focus mode is controlled by the  
focus-mode selector on the front of  
the camera. There are two  
Focus-mode selector  
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:  
N
Option  
Description  
Camera focuses when shutter-release button is pressed  
halfway. Focus locks when in-focus indicator (I) appears  
in viewfinder, and remains locked while shutter-release  
button is pressed halfway (focus lock). At default settings,  
shutter can only be released when in-focus indicator is  
displayed (focus priority).  
S
Single-servo  
AF  
Camera focuses continuously while shutter-release button  
is pressed halfway. If subject moves, camera will engage  
predictive focus tracking (pg. 75) to predict final distance to  
subject and adjust focus as necessary. At default settings,  
shutter can be released whether or not subject is in focus  
(release priority).  
C
Continuous-  
servo AF  
Camera does not focus automatically; focus must be  
adjusted manually using the lens focusing ring. If  
maximum aperture of lens is f/5.6 or faster, viewfinder  
focus indicator can be used to confirm focus (electronic  
range finding; pg. 84), but photographs can be taken at any  
time, whether or not subject is in focus.  
M
Manual  
(pg. 83)  
Choose single-servo AF for landscapes and other stationary sub-  
jects. Continuous-servo AF may be a better choice with erratically-  
moving subjects. Manual focus is recommended when the camera  
is unable to focus using autofocus.  
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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 shutter-  
release button is pressed halfway or either of the B buttons is pressed.  
This allows the camera to track focus while attempting to predict where  
the subject will be when the shutter is released.  
A See Also  
For information on using focus priority in continuous-servo AF, see  
Custom Setting a1 ([AF-C priority selection], pg. 305). For information on  
using release priority in single-servo AF, see Custom Setting a2 ([AF-S  
priority selection], pg. 306). For information on preventing the camera  
from focusing when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, see  
Custom Setting a5 ([AF activation], pg. 309).  
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AF-Area Mode  
AF-area mode determines how the  
focus point is selected in autofocus  
mode (pg. 74). To select the AF-  
area mode, rotate the AF-area  
mode selector. The following  
options are available:  
AF-area mode selector  
N
Mode  
Description  
User selects focus point manually; camera focuses on  
subject in selected focus point only. Use for relatively  
static compositions with subjects that will stay in selected  
focus point.  
K
Single-point  
AF  
In continuous-servo AF (pg. 74), user selects focus point  
manually; if subject briefly leaves selected focus point,  
camera will focus based on information from  
surrounding points. Number of focus points used can  
be selected from 9, 21, and 51 using Custom Setting a3  
([Dynamic AF area], pg. 307). If [51 points (3D-tracking)]  
is selected for Custom Setting a3, focus point will be  
selected automatically using 3D-tracking.  
In single-servo AF (pg. 74), user selects focus point  
manually; camera focuses on subject in selected focus  
point only.  
I
Dynamic-  
area AF  
Camera automatically detects  
subject and selects focus point. If  
type G or D lens is used, camera  
can distinguish human subjects  
from background for improved  
H
Auto-area AF subject detection. In single-servo  
AF, active focus points are  
highlighted for about one second after camera focuses.  
Active focus points are not displayed in continuous-servo  
AF.  
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A AF-Area Mode  
AF-area mode is shown in the shooting  
information display when the R button is  
pressed.  
AF-area mode  
indicator  
Information  
display  
AF-area mode  
K
Single-point AF  
N
Custom Setting a3 ([Dynamic AF area], pg. 307)  
9 points  
(default)  
21 points  
51 points  
Dynamic-  
area AF*  
I
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.  
A Manual Focus  
Single-point AF is automatically selected when manual focus is used.  
A See Also  
For information on the settings available in dynamic-area AF, see Custom  
Setting a3 ([Dynamic AF area], pg. 307). For information on adjusting how  
long the camera waits before refocusing when an object moves in front of  
the camera, see Custom Setting a4 ([Focus tracking with lock-on], pg. 309).  
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Focus Point Selection  
The camera offers a choice of 51  
focus points that together cover a  
wide area of the frame. The focus  
point can be selected manually,  
allowing photographs to be  
AF-area mode selector  
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:  
N
1 Rotate the focus selector  
lock to .  
This allows the multi selector to  
be used to select the focus  
point.  
Focus selector lock  
2 Select the focus point.  
Use the multi selector to select  
the focus point. At default  
settings, the center focus point  
can be selected by pressing the  
center of the multi selector.  
The focus selector lock can be  
rotated to the locked (L)  
position following selection to  
prevent the selected focus  
point from changing when the  
multi selector is pressed.  
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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). For information on choosing the  
number of focus points that can be selected using the multi selector, see  
Custom Setting a8 ([AF point selection], pg. 311). For information on  
choosing the role of the B button for vertical shooting, see Custom  
Setting a10 ([Vertical AF-ON button], pg. 313). For information on  
changing the role of the multi selector center button, see Custom Setting  
f1 ([Multi selector center button], pg. 331).  
N
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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.  
Single-servo AF  
Focus will lock automatically  
when the in-focus indicator  
appears, and remain locked  
until you remove your finger  
from the shutter-release  
button. Focus can also be locked by pressing the AE-L/AF-L  
button (see following page).  
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Continuous-servo AF  
Shutter-release  
button  
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.  
q
w
N
AE-L/AF-L button  
3 Recompose the  
photograph and shoot.  
Focus will remain locked  
between shots as long as the  
shutter-release button is kept  
pressed halfway, allowing several photographs in succession  
to be taken at the same focus setting. Focus will also remain  
locked between shots while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed.  
Do not change the distance between the camera and the  
subject while focus lock is in effect. If the subject moves, focus  
again at the new distance.  
A See Also  
For information on choosing the role played by the AE-L/AF-L button, see  
Custom Setting f6 ([Assign AE-L/AF-L button], pg. 340).  
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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.  
There is little or no contrast between the subject  
and the background  
Example: subject is the same color as the background.  
N
The focus point contains objects at different  
distances from the camera  
Example: subject is inside a cage.  
The subject is dominated by regular geometric  
patterns  
Example: blinds or a row of windows in a skyscraper.  
The focus point contains areas of sharply  
contrasting brightness  
Example: subject is half in the shade.  
Background objects appear larger than the subject  
Example: a building is in the frame behind the subject.  
The subject contains many fine details  
Example: a field of flowers or other subjects that are  
small or lack variation in brightness.  
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Manual Focus  
Manual focus is available for  
lenses that do not support  
Focus-mode  
selector  
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.  
N
A A-M Selection/Autofocus with Manual Priority  
If the lens supports A-M selection, set the lens A-M switch to M (manual).  
If the lens supports M/A (autofocus with manual override, MF priority) or  
A/M (autofocus with manual override, AF priority), focus can be adjusted  
manually, regardless of the mode selected with the lens. See the  
documentation provided with your lens for details.  
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The Electronic Rangefinder  
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 in-  
focus indicator (I) is displayed (pg. 55).  
Note that with the subjects listed on page  
82, the in-focus indicator may sometimes  
be displayed when the subject is not in  
focus; confirm focus in the viewfinder  
before shooting.  
N
A Focal Plane Position  
To determine the distance between your subject  
and the camera, measure from the focal plane  
mark (E) on the camera body. The distance  
between the lens mounting flange and the focal  
plane is 46.5 mm (1.83 in.).  
Focal plane mark  
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Release 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.  
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Choosing a Release Mode............................................... pg. 86  
Continuous Mode............................................................. pg. 88  
Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View)............... pg. 90  
Self-Timer Mode ............................................................ pg. 100  
Mirror up Mode.............................................................. pg. 102  
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Choosing a Release Mode  
The camera supports the following release modes:  
Mode  
Description  
S
Camera takes one photograph each time shutter-release  
Single frame button is pressed.  
CL  
While shutter-release button is held down, 1–5 frames per  
Continuous  
low speed  
CH  
second *  
.
While shutter-release button is held down, camera records  
Continuous up to 5 frames per second * (5–7 fps when [DX format  
high speed (24 × 16)] is selected for [Image area]; see page 60)  
.
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Frame pictures in monitor (pg. 90). Recommended at high  
or low angles or in other situations in which viewfinder is  
a
Live view hard to use or when enlarged view in monitor can assist in  
obtaining very precise focus.  
E
Use self-timer for self-portraits or to reduce blurring caused  
Self-timer by camera shake (pg. 100).  
Choose this mode to minimize camera shake in telephoto  
or close-up photography or in other situations in which the  
MUP  
Mirror up slightest camera movement can result in blurred  
photographs (pg. 102).  
*Average frame rate with continuous-servo AF, manual or shutter-priority auto  
exposure, a shutter speed of 1/250 s or faster, remaining settings other than  
Custom Setting d2 (pg. 321) at default values, and memory remaining in  
memory buffer.  
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To choose a release mode, press  
the release mode dial lock release  
and turn the release mode dial to  
the desired setting.  
Release mode dial lock  
release  
Release mode  
dial  
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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  
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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 Continuous High Speed  
In continuous high speed mode, the maximum frame rate for FX (36 × 24)  
format and 5 : 4 (30 × 24) images is 5 fps. The maximum frame rate for DX  
(24 × 16) format images can be chosen from 5, 6, and 7 fps using Custom  
Setting d2 ([Shooting speed], pg. 321) > [Continuous high-speed].  
The maximum frame rate when recording NEF (RAW) images at a bit  
depth of 14 bits (pg. 69) is 1.8 fps, or 2.6 fps for DX format.  
A Buffer Size  
The approximate number of images that can be  
stored in the memory buffer at current settings is  
shown in the exposure-count displays in the  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
viewfinder and top control panel while the  
shutter-release button is pressed. The illustration  
at right shows the display when space remains in  
the buffer for about 38 pictures.  
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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. Depending on the number  
of the images in the buffer, recording may take from a few seconds to a  
few minutes. Do not remove the memory card or remove or disconnect the  
power source until the access lamp has gone out. If the camera is switched  
off while data remain in the buffer, the power will not turn off until all  
images in the buffer have been recorded. If the battery is exhausted while  
images remain in the buffer, the shutter release will be disabled and the  
images transferred to the memory card.  
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A See Also  
For information on choosing the maximum number of photographs that  
can be taken in a single burst, see Custom Setting d3 ([Max. continuous  
release], pg. 321). For information on the number of pictures that can be  
taken in a single burst, see page 427.  
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Framing Pictures in the Monitor  
(Live View)  
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). You can zoom in on the image displayed in the monitor for  
precise focus, making this option suitable for static subjects.  
Contrast-detect autofocus can be used to compose photographs  
with the subject positioned anywhere in the frame.  
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A Phase-Detection Versus Contrast-Detect AF  
The camera normally uses phase-detection autofocus, in which focus is  
adjusted based on data from a special focusing sensor. When [Tripod] is  
selected in live view, however, the camera uses contrast-detect autofocus,  
in which the camera analyses the data from the image sensor and adjusts  
focus to produce the greatest contrast. Contrast-detect autofocus takes  
longer than phase-detection autofocus.  
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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.  
k
Select [Live view] in the shooting menu  
and choose [Hand-held] for [Live view  
mode].  
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.  
The mirror will be raised and  
the view through the lens will  
be displayed in the camera  
monitor instead of the viewfinder (for improved focus, focus  
on your subject by pressing the shutter-release button  
halfway, then press it the rest of the way down to start live  
view). To exit without taking a picture, rotate the release  
mode dial to another setting or press G.  
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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  
Main command  
dial  
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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. Note that the mirror will click back into place while  
either button is pressed, temporarily interrupting live view.  
Live view is restored when the button is released.  
Manual focus (focus mode M; pg. 83): Focus using the lens  
focusing ring.  
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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. Note that the sound the mirror makes  
when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway or an B button is  
pressed can be mistaken for the sound of the shutter, and that pressing  
the shutter-release button all the way down when the camera is unable to  
focus in single-servo AF will end live view without a photograph being  
recorded.  
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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  
B
button  
viewfinder.  
Frame a picture in the  
viewfinder and select a focus  
point using the multi selector,  
then press an B button. The camera will focus normally  
and set exposure. Note that the camera can NOT be focused by  
pressing the shutter-release button halfway.  
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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 Focus.  
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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.  
Contrast-detect AF point  
To focus using contrast-detect  
B button  
autofocus, press an B button. The  
focus point will blink green and the  
monitor may brighten while the camera  
focuses. If the camera is able to focus  
using contrast-detect autofocus, the  
focus point will be displayed in green; if the camera is unable  
to focus, the focus point will blink red.  
D Contrast-Detect Autofocus  
The camera will not continue to adjust focus while an B button is  
pressed in continuous-servo autofocus mode. In both single-servo  
and continuous-servo autofocus modes, the shutter can be released  
even when the camera is not in focus.  
Manual focus (focus mode M; pg. 83): Use zoom for precise focus.  
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To magnify the view in the monitor up to 13 × and check  
focus, press the N button while rotating the main command  
dial.  
Main command dial  
N button  
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. In exposure modes other than  
h, exposure can be adjusted by pressing  
the E button and rotating the main  
command dial (note that while exposure  
compensation can be adjusted by 5 EV,  
only values between –3 and +3 EV can  
be previewed in the monitor).  
A Exposure Preview  
Matrix metering is used to set exposure. Exposure can not be  
previewed when an optional flash unit is attached, bracketing is in  
effect (pg. 130), active D-lighting is on (pg. 181), or shutter speed is  
set to Aor “p” (flash sync speed).  
A Remote Cords  
If the shutter-release button on a remote cord (available separately; see  
pg. 392) is pressed halfway for over a second in tripod mode, it will  
activate contrast-detect autofocus. If the remote cord shutter-release  
button is pressed all the way down without focusing, focus will not be  
adjusted before the picture is taken.  
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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.  
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D Focusing with Contrast-Detect Autofocus  
Contrast-detect autofocus will take longer than normal (phase-detection)  
autofocus. In the following situations, the camera may be unable to focus  
using contrast-detect autofocus:  
The camera is not mounted on a tripod  
The subject contains lines parallel to the long edges of the frame  
The subject lacks contrast  
The subject in the focus point contains areas of sharply contrasting  
brightness, or the subject is lit by spot lighting or by a neon sign or other  
light source that changes in brightness  
Flicker or banding appears under fluorescent, mercury-vapor, sodium-  
vapor, or similar lighting  
A cross (star) filter or other special filter is used  
The subject appears smaller than the focus point  
The subject is dominated by regular geometric patterns  
(e.g., blinds or a row of windows in a skyscraper)  
The subject is moving  
Note that the focus point may sometimes be displayed in green when the  
camera is unable to focus.  
Use an AF-S lens. The desired results may not be achieved with other  
lenses or teleconverters.  
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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. Failure to observe this precaution could result  
in damage to the camera’s internal circuitry.  
Live view shooting ends automatically if the lens is removed.  
Live view mode can be used for up to an hour.  
27s  
Note, however, that when used in live view mode  
for extended periods, the camera may become  
noticeably warm and the temperature of its  
k
internal circuits may rise, resulting in image noise  
and unusual colors. To prevent damage to the  
camera’s internal circuits, live view shooting will  
end automatically before the camera overheats. A count-down display  
will appear in the monitor 30 s before shooting ends. At high ambient  
temperatures, this display may appear immediately when live view mode  
is selected.  
In exposure modes other than manual, close the viewfinder eyepiece  
shutter after focusing. This prevents light entering via the viewfinder  
from interfering with exposure (pg. 100).  
Some noise may be audible when zoom lenses are zoomed in or out or  
shutter speed is changed in exposure mode eor f.  
To reduce blur in tripod mode, choose [On] for Custom Setting d8  
([Exposure delay mode], pg. 325).  
If a CPU lens with an aperture ring is attached and [Aperture ring] selected  
for Custom Setting f7 ([Customize command dials]) > [Aperture setting]  
(pp. 341–342), live view will not start and the shutter release will be  
disabled. Select [Sub-command dial] when using a CPU lens equipped  
with an aperture ring.  
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A The Shooting Information Display  
To hide or display indicators in the monitor in live view mode, press the R  
button.  
Shooting information  
display  
k
Shootinginformation  
Virtual horizon 2  
off  
Shooting info + histogram 1, 2  
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. Press 1or 3to adjust brightness  
(note that monitor brightness has no effect on pictures taken in live view  
mode). To return to live view, release the K button. Monitor brightness  
can not be adjusted during exposure preview (pg. 96).  
A HDMI  
When the camera is attached to an  
HDMI video device, the camera monitor  
will turn off and the video device will  
display the view through the lens as  
shown at right.  
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Self-Timer Mode  
The self-timer can be used to reduce camera shake or for self-  
portraits. 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.  
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Release mode dial  
2 Frame the photograph and Focus-mode  
selector  
focus.  
In single-servo autofocus  
(pg. 74), photographs can only  
be taken if the in-focus (I)  
indicator appears in the  
viewfinder.  
AClose the Viewfinder Eyepiece Shutter  
In exposure modes other than manual,  
close the viewfinder eyepiece shutter after  
focusing. This prevents light entering via  
the viewfinder from interfering with  
exposure.  
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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 Ais 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). For information on setting a beep to sound  
during the timer count-down, see Custom Setting d1 ([Beep], pg. 320).  
101  
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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.  
D Using the Viewfinder  
Note that autofocus, metering, and framing can not be confirmed in  
the viewfinder while mirror is raised.  
3 Take a picture.  
Press the shutter-release button all the  
way down again to take a picture. To  
prevent blurring caused by camera  
movement, press the shutter-release button smoothly or use  
an optional remote cord (pg. 392). The mirror lowers when  
shooting ends.  
A Mirror up Mode  
A picture will be taken automatically if no operations are performed for  
about 30 s after the mirror is raised.  
102  
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S
ISO 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.  
S
Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually............................ pg. 104  
Auto ISO Sensitivity Control........................................ pg. 106  
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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.  
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.  
S
Main command  
dial  
ISO button  
Top control panel  
Rear control panel  
Viewfinder  
ISO sensitivity: 1600  
A The ISO Sensitivity Menu  
ISO sensitivity can also be adjusted using the [ISO sensitivity] option in the  
shooting menu (pg. 290).  
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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 settings available  
(ISO sensitivity step value)  
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  
1/3 step  
(default)  
Lo 1, Lo 0.5, 100,140, 200, 280, 400, 560, 800,  
1100, 1600, Hi 0.5, Hi 1, Hi 2  
1/2 step  
1 step  
Lo 1, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, Hi 1, Hi 2  
* If possible, the current ISO sensitivity setting is maintained when the  
step value is changed. If the current ISO sensitivity setting is not  
available at the new step value, ISO sensitivity will be rounded up to the  
nearest available setting.  
S
A Hi 0.3–Hi 2  
The settings [Hi 0.3] through [Hi 2] correspond to ISO sensitivities 0.3–2 EV  
over ISO 1600 (ISO 2000–6400 equivalent). Pictures taken at these  
settings are more likely to be subject to noise and color distortion.  
A Lo 0.3–Lo 1  
The settings [Lo 0.3] through [Lo 1] correspond to ISO sensitivities 0.3–  
1 EV below ISO 100 (ISO 80–50 equivalent). Use for larger apertures when  
lighting is bright. Contrast is slightly higher than normal; in most cases,  
ISO sensitivities of ISO 100 or above are recommended.  
A See Also  
For information on Custom Setting b1 ([ISO sensitivity step value]), see  
page 314. For information using the [High ISO NR] option in the shooting  
menu to reduce noise at high ISO sensitivities, see page 300.  
105  
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Auto ISO Sensitivity Control  
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). The maximum value for  
auto ISO sensitivity can be selected using the [Maximum  
sensitivity] option in the [ISO sensitivity auto control] menu (the  
minimum value for auto ISO sensitivity is automatically set to ISO  
100; note that if the value selected for [Maximum sensitivity] is  
lower than the value currently selected for [ISO sensitivity], the  
value selected for [Maximum sensitivity] will be used). In exposure  
modes eand g, sensitivity will only be adjusted if underexposure  
would result at the shutter speed selected for [Minimum shutter  
speed] (1/4000–1 s). Slower shutter speeds may be used if optimum  
exposure can not be achieved at the ISO sensitivity value selected  
for [Maximum sensitivity].  
S
When [On] is selected, the viewfinder and  
rear control panel show ISO-AUTO. When  
sensitivity is altered from the value selected  
by the user, these indicators blink and the  
altered value is shown in the viewfinder.  
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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. Choose a  
flash mode other than slow sync or select exposure mode gor hand  
choose a larger aperture.  
S
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S
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V
Exposure  
– 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  
Z
e: Programmed Auto................................................................... pg. 114  
f: Shutter-Priority Auto .............................................................. pg. 116  
g: Aperture-Priority Auto........................................................... pg. 118  
h: Manual......................................................................................... pg. 120  
Shutter-Speed and Aperture Lock ............................. pg. 123  
Autoexposure (AE) Lock............................................... pg. 125  
Exposure Compensation.............................................. pg. 128  
Bracketing....................................................................... pg. 130  
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Metering  
Metering determines how the camera sets exposure. The  
following options are available:  
Method  
Description  
Recommended in most situations. Camera meters a wide  
area of the frame and sets exposure according to distribution  
of brightness, color, distance, and composition for natural  
results.  
a
3D color  
matrix II  
Camera meters entire frame but  
assigns greatest weight to area in  
center of frame (defaults to 12-mm  
Z
Center-  
weighted  
circle in center of viewfinder; if CPU  
lens is attached, area can be selected  
using Custom Setting b5, [Center-  
Center weight area 3  
weighted area], pg. 316 1). Classic  
Z
meter for portraits. 2  
Camera meters circle 4 mm (0.16 in.) in  
diameter (approximately 1.5% of  
frame). Circle is centered on current  
focus point, making it possible to  
meter off-center subjects (if non-CPU  
lens is used or if auto-area AF is in  
b
Spot  
Spot metering area 3  
effect (pg. 76), camera will meter  
center focus point). Ensures that  
subject will be correctly exposed, even  
when background is much brighter or darker. 2  
1 When non-CPU lens is attached, average for entire frame will be used if  
[Average] is selected for Custom Setting b5; otherwise, center-weighted  
metering for non-CPU lenses will use 12-mm circle in center of viewfinder,  
regardless of setting selected for [Non-CPU lens data].  
2 For improved precision with non-CPU lenses, specify lens focal length and  
maximum aperture in [Non-CPU lens data] menu (pg. 218).  
3 Metered area is not actually displayed in viewfinder.  
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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). Color matrix metering is available when focal length and maximum  
aperture of non-CPU lens are specified using [Non-CPU lens data] item in  
setup menu (see page 218; center-weighted metering is used if focal  
length or aperture is not specified).  
A See Also  
For information on choosing the size of the area assigned the greatest  
weight in center-weighted metering, see Custom Setting b5 ([Center-  
weighted area], pg. 316). For information on making separate  
adjustments to optimal exposure for each metering method, see Custom  
Setting b6 ([Fine tune optimal exposure], pg. 316).  
111  
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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  
Description  
Camera sets shutter speed and aperture for  
optimal exposure. Recommended for snapshots  
and in other situations in which there is little time  
to adjust camera settings.  
Programmed  
auto  
(pg. 114)  
e
f
g
h
Shutter-priority User chooses shutter speed; camera selects  
auto  
(pg. 116)  
aperture for best results. Use to freeze or blur  
motion.  
User chooses aperture; camera selects shutter  
speed for best results. Use to blur background for  
portraits or bring both foreground and  
background into focus for landscape shots.  
User controls both shutter speed and aperture.  
Set shutter speed to “A” for long time-  
exposures.  
Aperture-  
priority auto  
(pg. 118)  
Z
Manual  
(pg. 120)  
A Lens Types  
When using a CPU lens equipped with an aperture ring, lock the aperture  
ring at the minimum aperture (highest f-number). Type G lenses are not  
equipped with an aperture ring.  
Non-CPU lenses can only be used in exposure mode g(aperture-priority  
auto) and h(manual). In other modes, exposure mode gis automatically  
selected when a non-CPU lens is attached. The exposure mode indicator  
(eor f) in the top control panel will blink and gwill be displayed in the  
viewfinder.  
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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 eand f) or the value  
chosen by the user (modes gand h), allowing  
depth of field to be previewed in the viewfinder.  
Preview button  
Z
A Custom Setting e3—Modeling Flash  
This setting controls whether the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-R200, and  
other optional flash units that support the Creative Lighting System (CLS;  
see page 186) will emit a modeling flash when the depth-of-field preview  
button is pressed. See page 327 for more information.  
A See Also  
See page 106 for information on auto ISO sensitivity control. For  
information on using the [Long exp. NR] option in the shooting menu for  
reducing noise at slow shutter speeds, see page 300. For information on  
choosing the size of the increments available for shutter speed and  
aperture, see Custom Setting b2 ([EV steps for exposure cntrl.], pg. 314).  
For information on changing the roles of the main and sub-command  
dials, see Custom Setting f7 ([Customize command dials] > [Change main/  
sub], pg. 341).  
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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  
I button  
mode e.  
Press the I button  
and rotate the main  
command dial until e  
is displayed in the  
viewfinder and top  
control panel.  
Z
Main command dial  
2 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot.  
Shutter speed: 1/320 s  
Aperture: f/9  
114  
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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  
left for small apertures (large f-numbers) that  
increase depth of field or slow shutter speeds  
that blur motion. All combinations produce the  
same exposure. While flexible program is in  
effect, an asterisk (“*”) appears in the top control  
panel. To restore default shutter speed and  
Main command dial  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
aperture settings, rotate the command dial until the asterisk is no longer  
displayed, choose another mode, or turn the camera off.  
Z
Shutter speed: 1/2,000 s  
Aperture: f/3.5  
Shutter speed: 1/50 s  
Aperture: f/22  
A See Also  
See page 430 for information on the built-in exposure program.  
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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  
I button  
mode f.  
Press the I button  
and rotate the main  
command dial until f  
is displayed in the  
viewfinder and top  
control panel.  
Main command dial  
Z
2 Choose a shutter speed.  
Rotate the main command dial to  
choose the desired shutter speed.  
Shutter speed can be set to “p” (the  
flash sync speed limit) or to values  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
between 30 s (q) and 1/8,000 s (o). Use slow shutter  
speeds to suggest motion by blurring moving objects, high  
shutter speeds to “freeze” motion.  
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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.  
117  
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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  
I button  
mode g.  
Press the I button  
and rotate the main  
command dial until gis  
displayed in the  
viewfinder and top  
control panel.  
Main command dial  
Z
2 Choose an aperture.  
Rotate the sub-  
command dial to  
choose the desired  
aperture from values  
between the minimum  
and maximum for the  
lens.  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
Sub-command dial  
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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.  
Z
A Non-CPU Lenses  
If the maximum aperture of the lens has been  
specified using the [Non-CPU lens data] item in  
setup menu (pg. 218) when a non-CPU lens is  
attached, the current f-number will be  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
displayed in the viewfinder and top control  
panel, rounded to the nearest full stop.  
Otherwise the aperture displays will show only  
the number of stops (F, with maximum  
aperture displayed as FA) and the f-number  
must be read from the lens aperture ring.  
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h: Manual  
In manual exposure mode, you control both shutter speed and  
aperture. To take photographs in manual exposure mode:  
1 Select exposure  
I button  
mode h.  
Press the I button  
and rotate the main  
command dial until h  
is displayed in the  
viewfinder and top  
control panel.  
Main command dial  
2 Choose aperture and shutter speed.  
Z
Rotate the main command dial to choose a shutter speed, and  
the sub-command dial to set aperture. Shutter speed can be  
set to “p” (the flash sync speed limit) or to values  
between 30 s and 1/8,000 s, or the shutter can be held open  
indefinitely for a long time-exposure (A, pg. 122).  
Aperture can be set to values between the minimum and  
maximum values for the lens. Check exposure in the  
electronic analog exposure displays (see page 122), and  
continue to adjust shutter speed and aperture until the  
desired exposure is achieved.  
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Sub-command  
dial  
Setting  
aperture  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
Setting  
shutter  
speed  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
Main command  
dial  
Z
Shutter speed and aperture can be locked at the selected  
setting (see pages 123, 124).  
3 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.  
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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 over-  
exposure 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.  
Custom Setting b2 set to [1/3 step]  
Optimal exposure  
Underexposed by 1/3 EV Overexposed by over 3 EV  
Control panel  
Viewfinder  
A Long Time-Exposures  
At a shutter speed of A, the shutter will  
remain open while the shutter-release button  
is held down. Use for long time-exposure  
photographs of moving lights, the stars, night  
scenery, or fireworks. Nikon recommends  
using a fully-charged EN-EL4a battery or an  
optional EH-6 AC adapter to prevent loss of  
power while the shutter is open. Note that  
noise and distortion may be present in long  
exposures; before shooting, choose [On] for  
the [Long exp. NR] option in the shooting  
menu (pg. 300).  
Z
Shutter speed: 35 s  
Aperture: f/25  
A See Also  
See Custom Setting f10 ([Reverse indicators], pg. 345) for information on  
reversing the electronic analog exposure display.  
122  
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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 Ricons appear in the  
viewfinder and the top control panel.  
Z
Main command dial  
F button  
To unlock shutter speed, press the F button  
and rotate the main command dial until the  
Ricons disappear from the displays.  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
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Aperture Lock  
To lock aperture at the selected value, press the F button and  
rotate the sub-command dial until Ricons 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.  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
Z
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Autoexposure (AE) Lock  
Use autoexposure lock to recompose photographs after metering  
exposure.  
1 Select center-weighted or  
Metering selector  
spot metering (pg. 110).  
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).  
Z
2 Lock exposure.  
Shutter-release  
button  
Position the subject in the selected  
focus point and press the shutter-  
q
release button halfway. With the  
shutter-release button pressed halfway  
and the subject positioned in the focus  
point, press the AE-L/AF-L button to lock  
exposure (and focus, except in manual  
w
focus mode). Confirm that the in-focus  
indicator (I) appears in the viewfinder.  
AE-L/AF-L button  
While exposure lock is in effect, an AE-L  
indicator will appear in the viewfinder.  
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3 Recompose the  
photograph.  
Keeping the AE-L/AF-L button  
pressed, recompose the  
photograph and shoot.  
Z
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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).  
A Adjusting Shutter Speed and Aperture  
While exposure lock is in effect, the following settings can be changed  
without altering the metered value for exposure:  
Exposure mode  
Settings  
e
f
g
Shutter speed and aperture (flexible program; pg. 115)  
Shutter speed  
Aperture  
The new values can be confirmed in the viewfinder and top control panel.  
Note that the metering method can not be changed while exposure lock  
is in effect (changes to metering take effect when the lock is released).  
Z
A See Also  
If [On] is selected for Custom Setting c1 ([Shutter-release button AE-L], pg.  
318), exposure will lock when the shutter-release button is pressed  
halfway. For information on changing the role of the AE-L/AF-L button, see  
Custom Setting f6 ([Assign AE-L/AF-L button], pg. 340).  
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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.  
E button  
Z
Main command dial  
0 EV  
–0.3 EV  
+2.0 EV  
(E button pressed)  
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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  
+1 EV  
compensation  
At values other than 0, the 0 at the center of the electronic  
analog exposure displays will flash and a Eicon will be displayed  
in the viewfinder and top control panel after you release the E  
button. The current value for exposure compensation can be  
confirmed in the electronic analog exposure display by pressing  
the E button.  
Z
Normal exposure can be restored by setting exposure  
compensation to 0. Exposure compensation is not reset when  
the camera is turned off.  
A See Also  
For information on choosing the size of the increments available for  
exposure compensation, see Custom Setting b3 ([EV steps for exposure  
comp.], pg. 314). For information on making adjustments to exposure  
compensation without pressing the E button, see Custom Setting b4  
([Easy exposure compensation], pg. 315).  
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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). Only one photograph is produced each time the shutter  
is released, meaning that several shots are required to complete  
the bracketing sequence. Exposure and flash bracketing are  
recommended in situations in which it is difficult to set exposure  
and there is not enough time to check results and adjust settings  
with each shot.  
In white balance bracketing (pg. 135), the camera creates multiple  
images each time the shutter is released, each with a different  
white balance adjustment. Only one shot is required to complete  
the bracketing sequence. White balance bracketing is  
recommended when shooting under mixed lighting or  
experimenting with different white balance settings.  
Z
A See Also  
At default settings, the camera varies both exposure and flash level.  
Custom Setting e4 ([Auto bracketing set], pg. 328) is used to choose the  
type of bracketing performed.  
130  
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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. The  
number of shots is shown in the top control panel.  
Z
Number of shots  
Top control panel  
BKT button  
Main command  
dial  
Exposure and flash  
bracketing indicator  
At settings other than zero, a Micon and exposure and  
flash bracketing indicator will be displayed in the  
viewfinder and top control panel.  
131  
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3 Select an exposure increment.  
Pressing the BKT button, rotate the sub-command dial to  
choose the exposure increment.  
Exposure increment  
Top control panel  
BKT button  
Sub-command  
dial  
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  
Bracketing order (EVs)  
0
0
3
3
2
2
3
5
+0.3/0/+0.7  
–0.3/–0.7/0  
0/+0.3  
0/–0.3  
0/–0.3/+0.3  
0/–0.7/–0.3/+0.3/+0.7  
0/–1.0/–0.7/–0.3/+0.3/  
+0.7/+1.0  
0/–1.3/–1.0/–0.7/–0.3/  
+0.3/+0.7/+1.0/+1.3  
7
9
A See Also  
For information on choosing the size of the exposure increment, see  
Custom Setting b2 ([EV steps for exposure cntrl.], pg. 314). For  
information on choosing the order in which bracketing is performed, see  
Custom Setting e6 ([Bracketing order], pg. 330).  
132  
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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  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
segment will disappear from the  
indicator after each shot.  
Z
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
Exposure increment:  
0 EV  
Exposure increment:  
–1 EV  
Exposure increment:  
+1 EV  
133  
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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 Mis 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.  
A Exposure and Flash Bracketing  
In single frame and self-timer modes, one shot will be taken each time the  
shutter-release button is pressed. In continuous low speed and  
continuous high speed modes, shooting will pause after the number of  
shots specified in the bracketing program have been taken. Shooting will  
resume the next time the shutter-release button is pressed.  
Z
If the memory card fills before all shots in the sequence have been taken,  
shooting can be resumed from the next shot in the sequence after the  
memory card has been replaced or shots have been deleted to make  
room on the memory card. If the camera is turned off before all shots in  
the sequence have been taken, bracketing will resume from the next shot  
in the sequence when the camera is turned on.  
A Exposure Bracketing  
The camera modifies exposure by varying shutter speed and aperture  
(programmed auto), aperture (shutter-priority auto), or shutter speed  
(aperture-priority auto, manual exposure mode). When [On] is selected  
for [ISO sensitivity settings] > [ISO sensitivity auto control] in shooting  
menu and no flash is attached, the camera will automatically vary ISO  
sensitivity for optimum exposure when the limits of the camera exposure  
system are exceeded.  
Custom Setting e5 ([Auto bracketing (mode M)], pg. 329) can be used to  
change how the camera performs exposure and flash bracketing in  
manual exposure mode. Bracketing can be performed by varying flash  
level together with shutter speed and/or aperture, or by varying flash  
level alone.  
134  
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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.  
Number of shots  
Z
Top control panel  
BKT button  
Main command  
dial  
WB bracketing  
indicator  
At settings other than zero, a WB  
bracketing indicator will appear in the  
top control panel and a Wicon will  
be displayed in the top and rear  
control panels.  
135  
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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  
Top control panel  
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.  
Z
No. of White balance  
Control panel display  
shots increment  
Bracketing order (EVs)  
0
0
3
3
2
2
3
5
1
1 B  
1 B / 0 / 2 B  
1 A / 2 A / 0  
0 / 1 B  
1 A  
1 B  
1 A  
0 / 1 A  
1 A, 1 B  
1 A, 1 B  
0 / 1 A / 1 B  
0 / 2 A / 1 A / 1 B / 2 B  
0 / 3 A / 2 A / 1 A /  
1 B / 2 B / 3 B  
0/4A/3A/2A/1A/  
1 B / 2 B / 3 B / 4 B  
7
9
1 A, 1 B  
1 A, 1 B  
A See Also  
See page 145 for a definition of “mired.”  
136  
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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.  
If the number of shots in the  
bracketing program is greater than  
the number of exposures remaining,  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
the number of exposures remaining,  
frame count, and Nicon will flash in  
the top control panel, a flashing g  
Z
icon will appear in the viewfinder, and  
the shutter release will be disabled. Shooting can begin when  
a new memory card is inserted.  
137  
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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 Ware 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.  
Z
A White Balance Bracketing  
White balance bracketing is not available at an image quality of NEF  
(RAW). Selecting [NEF (RAW)], [NEF (RAW)+JPEG fine], [NEF (RAW)+JPEG  
normal], or [NEF (RAW)+JPEG basic] cancels white balance bracketing.  
White balance bracketing affects only color temperature (the amber-blue  
axis in the white balance fine-tuning display, pg. 144). No adjustments are  
made on the green-magenta axis.  
In self-timer mode (pg. 100), the number of copies specified in the white-  
balance program will be created each time the shutter is released.  
If the camera is turned off while the memory card access lamp is lit, the  
camera will power off only after all photographs in the sequence have  
been recorded.  
138  
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White 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.This chapter covers white balance settings.  
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White Balance Options................................................. pg. 140  
Fine-Tuning White Balance.......................................... pg. 143  
Choosing a Color Temperature................................... pg. 147  
Preset Manual ................................................................ pg. 148  
139  
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White Balance Options  
For natural coloration, choose a white balance setting that  
matches the light source before shooting. The following options  
are available:  
Color temp.  
Option  
(K)  
Description  
White balance is adjusted  
automatically using color  
temperature measured by image  
Auto  
(default)  
3,500– sensor and 1,005-segment RGB  
8,000* sensor. For best results, use type G or  
D lens. If optional flash unit is used,  
white balance reflects conditions in  
effect when the flash goes off.  
3,000* Use under incandescent lighting.  
Use under following seven light  
sources:  
v
J Incandescent  
I
Fluorescent  
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Use under sodium-vapor lighting  
(found in sports venues).  
Sodium-vapor lamps  
2,700*  
Warm-white  
fluorescent  
White fluorescent  
Use under warm-white fluorescent  
3,000*  
lights.  
3,700* Use under white fluorescent lights.  
Use under cool-white fluorescent  
Cool-white fluorescent 4,200*  
lights.  
Use under daylight white fluorescent  
lights.  
6,500* Use under daylight fluorescent lights.  
Use under high color temperature  
7,200* light sources (e.g. mercury-vapor  
lamps).  
Day white fluorescent  
Daylight fluorescent  
5,000*  
High temp. mercury-  
vapor  
Use with subjects lit by direct  
sunlight.  
H Direct sunlight  
5,200*  
140  
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Color temp.  
(K)  
Option  
Description  
N
Flash  
5,400* Use with optional flash units.  
G Cloudy  
6,000* Use in daylight under overcast skies.  
Use in daylight with subjects in the  
shade.  
M Shade  
8,000*  
2,500– Choose color temperature from list of  
10,000 values (pg. 147).  
K
Choose color temp.  
Use subject, light source, or existing  
L Preset manual  
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. If  
the desired results can not be achieved with auto white balance,  
choose an option from the list above or use preset white balance.  
White balance can be selected by pressing the WB button and  
rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is  
displayed in the rear control panel.  
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Rear control panel  
WB button  
Main command  
dial  
A The White Balance Menu  
White balance can also be adjusted using the [White balance] option in  
the shooting menu (pg. 290).  
A I (Fluorescent)  
Selecting I (fluorescent) with the WB button and main command dial  
selects the type of bulb chosen for the [Fluorescent] option in the white  
balance menu (pg. 290).  
141  
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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. Color temperature is an objective measure of the color of a  
light source, defined with reference to the temperature to which an object  
would have to be heated to radiate light in the same wavelengths. While  
light sources with a color temperature in the neighborhood of 5,000–  
5,500K appear white, light sources with a lower color temperature, such as  
incandescent light bulbs, appear slightly yellow or red. Light sources with  
a higher color temperature appear tinged with blue.  
A See Also  
When [WB bracketing] is selected for Custom Setting e4 ([Auto bracketing  
set], pg. 328), the camera will create several images each time the shutter  
is released. White balance will be varied with each image, “bracketing”  
the value currently selected for white balance. See page 130 for more  
information.  
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142  
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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. If an option other than [Fluorescent],  
[Choose color temp.], or [Preset manual] is selected, proceed  
to Step 2. If [Fluorescent] is selected, highlight a lighting type  
and press 2. If [Choose color temp.] is selected, highlight a  
color temperature and press 2. If [Preset manual] is selected,  
choose a preset as described on page 157 before proceeding.  
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143  
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2 Fine tune white balance.  
Use the multi selector to fine-  
tune white balance. White  
balance can be fine tuned on  
the amber (A)–blue (B) axis and  
the green (G)–magenta (M)  
axis. The horizontal (amber-  
Coordinates Adjustment  
blue) axis corresponds to color temperature, with each  
increment equivalent to about 5 mired. The vertical (green-  
magenta) axis has the similar effects to the corresponding  
color compensation (CC) filters.  
Increase green  
Green (G)  
Blue (B)  
Amber (A)  
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Increase magenta  
Magenta (M)  
Increase blue  
Increase amber  
3 Press J.  
Press J to save settings and return to  
the shooting menu. If white balance  
has been fine-tuned on the A-B axis, a  
E icon will be displayed in the rear  
control panel.  
J button  
144  
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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. For example, a change of 1000 K produces a much greater  
change in color at 3000 K than at 6000 K. Mired, calculated by multiplying  
the inverse of the color temperature by 10 6, is a measure of color  
temperature that takes such variation into account, and as such is the unit  
used in color-temperature compensation filters. E.g.:  
4000 K–3000 K (a difference of 1000 K)=83 mired  
7000 K–6000 K (a difference of 1000 K)=24 mired  
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145  
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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. Rotating the sub-command  
dial to the left increases the amount of amber (A). Rotating the  
sub-command dial to the right increases the amount of blue (B).  
At settings other than 0, a E icon appears in the rear control  
panel.  
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Rear control panel  
WB button  
Sub-command dial  
146  
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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  
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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. With  
other light sources, take a test shot to determine if the selected value is  
appropriate.  
A The White Balance Menu  
Color temperature can also be selected in the white balance menu. Note  
that the color temperature with the WB button and the sub-command dial  
replaces the value selected in the white balance menu.  
147  
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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  
lighting that will be used in final photograph and  
white balance is measured by camera (pg. 150).  
Direct  
measurement  
Copy from existing White balance is copied from photo on memory  
photograph card (pg. 155).  
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148  
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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  
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memory card (pg. 155).  
A White Balance Presets  
Changes to white balance presets apply to all shooting menu banks (pg.  
291). A confirmation dialog will be displayed if the user attempts to  
change a white balance preset created in another shooting menu bank  
(no warning is displayed for preset d-0).  
149  
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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]).  
Press the WB button and rotate the main command dial until  
L is displayed in the rear control panel.  
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WB button  
Main command dial Rear control panel  
150  
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3 Select direct measurement mode.  
Release the WB button briefly and then  
press the button until the L icon  
starts to flash. A flashing Dwill 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  
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press the shutter-release button all the way down. The camera  
will measure a value for white balance and store it in preset  
d-0. No photograph will be recorded; white balance can be  
measured accurately even when the camera is not in focus.  
151  
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5 Check the results.  
If the camera was able to measure a  
value for white balance, Cwill  
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). Press the shutter-release  
button halfway to return to Step 4 and  
measure white balance again.  
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Top control panel  
Rear control panel  
Viewfinder  
6 Select preset d-0.  
If the new value for preset white balance will be used  
immediately, select preset d-0 by pressing the WB button and  
rotating the sub-command dial until d-0 is displayed in the  
rear control panel.  
152  
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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.  
To use the new value for white balance, select preset d-0 (if no value has  
been measured for white balance before d-0 is selected, white balance  
will be set to a color temperature of 5,200 K, the same as [Direct sunlight]).  
The new white balance value will remain in preset d-0 until white balance  
is measured again. By copying preset d-0 to one of the other presets  
before measuring a new value for white balance, up to five white balance  
values can be stored (pg. 154).  
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153  
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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.  
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3 Copy d-0 to the selected  
preset.  
Highlight [Copy d-0] and  
press J. If comment has  
been created for d-0 (pg. 159),  
the comment will be copied  
to the comment for the selected preset.  
154  
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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.  
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3 Choose [Select image].  
Highlight [Select image] and  
press 2.  
155  
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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 Copy white balance.  
Press the center of the multi selector to  
copy the white balance value for the  
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highlighted photograph to the selected preset. If the  
highlighted photograph has a comment (pg. 350), the  
comment will be copied to the comment for the selected  
preset.  
A Choosing a White Balance Preset  
Press 1to highlight the current white balance  
preset (d-0d-4) and press 2to select another  
preset.  
156  
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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.  
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3 Select [Set].  
Highlight [Set] and press 2.  
Fine tuning menu for the  
selected white balance preset  
is displayed (pg. 143).  
157  
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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.  
Rear control panel  
WB button  
Sub-command dial  
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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.  
r
3 Select [Edit comment].  
Highlight [Edit comment] and  
press 2.  
4 Edit the comment.  
Edit the comment as described on page  
292.  
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Image 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..................................................................... pg. 183  
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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.  
Custom Picture Controls can also be saved to the memory card for  
use in compatible software, and software-created Picture Controls  
can be loaded into the camera. Any given set of Picture Controls  
will produce nearly the same results on all cameras that support  
the Nikon Picture Control system.  
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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.  
Share custom Picture Controls (pg. 174): Custom Picture Controls  
created with the camera can be saved to the memory card for  
use in ViewNX (supplied) and other compatible software, or  
software-created custom Picture Controls can be loaded into the  
camera.  
Manage custom Picture Controls (pg. 177): Rename or delete custom  
Picture Controls.  
J
A Nikon Picture Controls Versus Custom Picture Controls  
The Picture Controls supplied by Nikon are referred to as Nikon Picture  
Controls. In addition to the Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the  
camera, optional Picture Controls are available for download from Nikon  
websites. Custom Picture Controls are created through modifications to  
existing Nikon Picture Controls. Both Nikon and custom Picture Controls  
can be shared among compatible devices and software.  
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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  
Description  
Standard processing for balanced results.  
Recommended for most situations.  
Minimal processing for natural results. Choose for  
photographs that will later be extensively  
processed or retouched.  
Q Standard  
R Neutral  
Pictures are enhanced for a vivid, photoprint effect.  
Choose for photographs that emphasize primary  
colors.  
S Vivid  
T Monochrome Take monochrome photographs.  
Choosing a Picture Control  
1 Select [Set Picture Control].  
In the shooting menu (pg. 290),  
highlight [Set Picture Control]  
and press 2.  
J
2 Select a Picture Control.  
Highlight the desired Picture  
Control and press J.  
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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 1or 3, then press 2to display Picture  
Control options and press J.  
A The Picture Control Indicator  
The current Picture Control is shown in the  
shooting information display when the R button  
is pressed.  
Picture Control  
indicator  
J
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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 1or 3to highlight the  
desired setting and press 4or  
2to choose a value (pg. 167).  
Repeat this step until all  
J
settings have been adjusted, or  
select [Quick adjust] (pg. 167) to choose a preset combination  
of settings. Default settings can be restored by pressing the O  
button.  
3 Press J.  
A Modifications to Original Picture Controls  
Picture Controls that have been modified from  
default settings are indicated by an asterisk (“U”)  
in the [Set Picture Control] menu.  
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Picture Control Settings  
Option  
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  
example, choosing positive values for [Vivid] makes  
pictures more vivid. Not available with [Neutral],  
[Monochrome], or custom Picture Controls.  
Quick adjust  
Control the sharpness of outlines. Select [A] to adjust  
sharpening automatically according to the type of  
Sharpening scene, or choose from values between [0] (no  
sharpening) and [9] (the higher the value, the greater  
the sharpening).  
Select [A] to adjust contrast automatically according to  
the type of scene, or choose from values between [–3]  
and [+3] (choose lower values to prevent highlights in  
portrait subjects from being “washed out” in direct  
Contrast  
sunlight, higher values to preserve detail in misty  
landscapes and other low-contrast subjects).  
Choose [–1] for reduced brightness, [+1] for enhanced  
brightness. Does not affect exposure.  
Brightness  
J
Control the vividness of colors. Select [A] to adjust  
saturation automatically according to the type of scene,  
or choose from values between [–3] and [+3] (lower  
Saturation  
values reduce saturation and higher values increase it).  
Choose negative values (to a minimum of [–3]) to make  
reds more purple, blues more green, and greens more  
yellow, positive values (up to [+3]) to make reds more  
Hue  
orange, greens more blue, and blues more purple.  
Simulate the effect of color filters on monochrome  
photographs. Choose from [Off] (the default setting),  
yellow, orange, red, and green (pg. 169).  
Filter  
effects  
Choose the tint used in monochrome photographs from  
[B&W] (black-and-white, the default setting), [Sepia],  
[Cyanotype] (blue-tinted monochrome), [Red], [Yellow],  
[Green], [Blue Green], [Blue], [Purple Blue], and [Red  
Purple] (pg. 169).  
Toning  
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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. The  
icons for Picture Controls that use auto contrast  
and saturation are displayed in green in the  
Picture Control grid, and lines appear parallel to  
the axes of the grid.  
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). Release the N button to return to the  
Picture Control menu.  
J
A Previous Settings  
The line under the value display in the Picture  
Control setting menu indicates the previous value  
for the setting. Use this as a reference when  
adjusting settings.  
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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:  
Option  
Yellow  
Description  
Y
O
R
G
Enhances contrast. Can be used to tone down the brightness  
Orange of the sky in landscape photographs. Orange produces more  
contrast than yellow, red more contrast than orange.  
Green Softens skin tones. Can be used for portraits.  
Red  
Note that the effects achieved with [Filter effects] are more pronounced  
than those produced by physical glass filters.  
A Toning (Monochrome Only)  
Pressing 3when [Toning] is selected displays  
saturation options. Press 4or 2to adjust  
saturation. Saturation control is not available  
when [B&W] (black-and-white) is selected.  
A Custom Picture Controls  
The options available with custom Picture Controls are the same as those  
on which the custom Picture Control was based.  
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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.  
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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.  
J
Choose a destination for the  
custom Picture Control (C-1  
through C-9) and press 2.  
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6 Name the Picture  
Control.  
Keyboard  
area  
The text-entry dialog shown  
at right will be displayed. By  
default, new Picture  
Name area  
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 4or 2. To enter a new letter at  
the current cursor position, use the multi selector 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.  
Custom Picture Control names can be up to 19 characters  
long. Any characters after the 19th will be deleted.  
J
After entering the name, press J. The  
new Picture Control will appear in the  
Picture Control list.  
Custom Picture Controls can be renamed  
at any time using the [Rename] option in  
the [Manage Picture Control] menu.  
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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.  
Original Picture  
Control icon  
J
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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.  
2 Select [Copy to camera].  
Highlight [Copy to camera] and  
press 2.  
J
3 Select a Picture Control.  
Highlight a custom Picture  
Control and either;  
press 2to view current  
Picture Control settings, or  
press J to proceed to Step 4.  
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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. Cards in slot 2 can not be  
used.  
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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.  
J
A Saving Custom Picture Controls  
Up to 99 custom Picture Controls can be stored on the memory card at  
any one time. The memory card can only be used to store user-created  
custom Picture Controls. The Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the  
camera can not be copied to the memory card.  
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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.  
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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.  
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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.  
J
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3 Select a Picture Control.  
Highlight a custom Picture  
Control (slot1 through 99) and  
either:  
press 2to view current  
Picture Control settings, or  
press J to display  
confirmation dialog shown at  
right.  
4 Select [Yes].  
J
Highlight [Yes] and press J to  
delete the selected Picture  
Control.  
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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.  
Active D-Lighting off  
Active D-Lighting:  
Auto  
J
Active D-Lighting off  
Active D-Lighting:  
High  
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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). Although exposure is in fact reduced  
to prevent loss of detail in highlights and shadows, highlights,  
underexposed areas, and mid-tones are automatically adjusted to prevent  
the resulting photograph from being underexposed. The [Brightness] and  
[Contrast] Picture Control settings (pg. 167) can not be adjusted while  
Active D-Lighting is in effect. Noise, distortion, or banding may be visible  
at high ISO sensitivities. In exposure mode h, an Active D-Lighting setting  
of [Auto] is equivalent to [Normal].  
D “Active D-Lighting” versus “D-Lighting”  
The [Active D-Lighting] option in the shooting menu adjusts exposure  
before shooting to optimize the dynamic range, while the [D-Lighting]  
option in the retouch menu optimizes dynamic range in images after  
shooting.  
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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  
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  
choice for images that will be extensively  
processed or retouched.  
W sRGB (default)  
X Adobe RGB  
1 Select [Color space].  
Highlight [Color space] in the  
shooting menu (pg. 290) and  
press 2.  
J
2 Select a color space.  
Highlight the desired option  
and press J.  
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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. sRGB is recommended when taking  
photographs that will be printed without modification or viewed in  
applications that do not support color management, or when taking  
photographs that will be printed with ExifPrint, the direct printing option  
on some household printers, or kiosk printing or other commercial print  
services. Adobe RGB photographs can also be printed using these  
options, but colors will not be as vivid.  
JPEG photographs taken in the Adobe RGB color space are Exif 2.21 and  
DCF 2.0 compliant; applications and printers that support Exif 2.21 and  
DCF 2.0 will select the correct color space automatically. If the application  
or device does not support Exif 2.21 and DCF 2.0, select the appropriate  
color space manually. An ICC color profile is embedded in TIFF  
photographs taken in the Adobe RGB color space, allowing applications  
that support color management to automatically select the correct color  
space. For more information, see the documentation provided with the  
application or device.  
A Nikon Software  
J
The following Nikon software automatically selects the correct color space  
when opening photographs created with the D3X: ViewNX (supplied) and  
Capture NX 2 (available separately).  
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Flash 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. 191  
i-TTL Flash Control......................................................... pg. 193  
Flash Modes.................................................................... pg. 194  
FV Lock ............................................................................ pg. 198  
Flash Contacts................................................................ pg. 201  
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The Nikon Creative Lighting  
System (CLS)  
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). Flash level is set using monitor  
pre-flashes to measure the light reflected by the subject,  
ensuring that the level is adjusted appropriately for ambient  
lighting.  
Advanced Wireless Lighting: Allows i-TTL flash control with remote  
wireless flash units.  
FV lock (pg. 198): Locks flash level at the metered value, allowing a  
series of photographs to be taken at the same flash level.  
Auto FP High-Speed Sync (pg. 197): Allows the flash to be used at the  
highest shutter speed supported by the camera, making it  
possible to choose the maximum aperture for reduced depth of  
field.  
l
The CLS-compatible D3X can be used for flash photography when  
an optional Speedlight is mounted on the camera’s accessory  
shoe. A flash can be used not only when natural lighting is  
inadequate, but also to fill in shadows, illuminate back-lit subjects,  
and even to add a catch light to the eyes of a portrait subject. See  
the Speedlight manual for details.  
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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  
Guide No. 3  
SB-900 1  
34/111  
SB-800  
38/125  
SB-600  
30/98  
SB-400  
21/69  
SB-R200 2  
10/33  
Auto power zoom  
(mm)  
Wide panel (mm) 12, 14, 17 14, 17  
4
5
17–200 24–105  
24–85  
14  
60 ° down  
(toward lens  
light axis),  
45 ° up  
(away from  
light axis)  
7 ° down, 7 ° down,  
90 ° up, 90 ° up,  
180 ° left, 180 ° left,  
and right 90 ° right  
90 ° up,  
180 ° left, 90 ° up  
90 ° right  
Head rotation  
1 If a color filter is attached to the SB-900 when v or N (flash) is selected for  
white balance, the camera will automatically detect the filter and adjust  
white balance appropriately.  
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2 Controlled remotely using optional SB-900 or SB-800 flash unit or SU-800  
wireless Speedlight commander.  
3 ISO 100, m/ft., 20 °C (68 °F), SB-900, SB-800, and SB-600 at 35 mm zoom  
head position; SB-900 with standard illumination.  
4 27 mm zoom coverage.  
5 24 mm zoom coverage.  
SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander  
When mounted on a CLS-compatible camera, the SU-800 can be  
used as a commander for remote SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or  
SB-R200 flash units. The SU-800 itself is not equipped with a flash.  
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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).  
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The following features are available with the SB-900, SB-800, SB-  
600, SB-400, SB-R200, and SU-800:  
Flash unit  
Advanced Wireless Lighting  
Commander Remote  
SB-900  
SB-800 SB-600 SB-400 SB-800 SU-800 1 SB-800 SB-600 SB-R200  
SB-900  
SB-900  
Flash mode/feature  
i-TTL balanced fill-flash  
for digital SLR  
Auto aperture  
Non-TTL auto  
GN Range-priority manual  
Manual  
Repeating flash  
Auto FP High-Speed Sync 7  
FV lock  
AF-assist for multi-area AF 8  
Flash Color Information  
Communication  
2
2
3
i-TTL  
4
6
5
5
5
AA  
A
5
5
M
RPT  
REAR  
Y
Rear-curtain sync  
Red-eye reduction  
Auto zoom  
1 Only available when SU-800 is used to control other flash units.  
2 Standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR is used with spot metering or when selected  
with flash unit.  
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3 Standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR is used with spot metering.  
4 Selected with flash unit. Non-TTL auto (A) selected automatically if non-CPU lens  
is attached without specifying lens data using [Non-CPU lens data].  
5 Auto aperture (AA) is used regardless of mode selected with flash unit. Non-TTL  
auto (A) selected automatically if non-CPU lens is attached without specifying  
lens data using [Non-CPU lens data].  
6 Selected with flash unit.  
7 Select [1/250 s (Auto FP)] for Custom Setting e1 ([Flash sync speed], pg. 326).  
8 CPU lens required.  
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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. This feature can be used with Advanced Wireless Lighting to  
preview the total lighting effect achieved with multiple flash units.  
Modeling illumination can be turned off using Custom Setting e3  
[Modeling flash] (pg. 327).  
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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.  
Speedlight SB-80DX,  
SB-28DX,  
SB-30,SB-27 1,  
SB-22s, SB-22,  
SB-20,  
SB-16B, SB-15  
SB-23,SB-29 2,  
SB-21B 2,  
SB-29s 2  
SB-50DX  
SB-28, SB-26,  
SB-25, SB-24  
Flash mode  
A
Non-TTL auto  
M
G
Manual  
Repeating flash  
REAR Rear-curtain sync  
1 Flash mode is automatically set to TTL and shutter-release is disabled. Set flash  
unit to A (non-TTL auto flash).  
2 Autofocus is only available with AF-Micro lenses (60 mm, 105 mm, or 200 mm).  
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D Notes on Optional Speedlights  
Refer to the Speedlight manual for detailed instructions. If the Speedlight  
supports the Nikon Creative Lighting System, refer to the section on CLS-  
compatible digital SLR cameras. The D3X is not included in the “digital  
SLR” category in the SB-80DX, SB-28DX, and SB-50DX manuals.  
i-TTL flash control can be used at ISO sensitivities between 100 and 1600.  
At values over 1600, the desired results may not be achieved at some  
ranges or aperture settings. If the flash-ready indicator blinks for about  
three seconds after a photograph is taken, the flash has fired at full power  
and the photograph may be underexposed.  
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The SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400 provide red-eye reduction in red-  
eye 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. When used with AF  
lenses with focal lengths of 17–135 mm, the SB-900 provides AF-assist  
illumination (active AF-assist illumination) for all focus points; note,  
however, that autofocus is available only with the following focus points:  
17–19 mm  
20–105 mm  
106–135mm  
When used with AF lenses with focal lengths of 24–105 mm, the SB-800,  
SB-600, and SU-800 provide AF-assist illumination to assist autofocus for  
the following focus points:  
24–34 mm  
35–49 mm  
50–105mm  
In programmed auto, the maximum aperture (minimum f-number) is  
limited according to sensitivity (ISO equivalency), as shown below:  
Maximum aperture at ISO equivalent of:  
100  
200  
400  
800  
1600  
4
4.8  
5.6  
6.7  
8
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For each one-step increase in sensitivity (e.g., from 200 to 400), aperture is  
stopped down by half an f-stop. If the maximum aperture of the lens is  
smaller than given above, the maximum value for aperture will be the  
maximum aperture of the lens.  
When an SC-series 17, 28, or 29 sync cable is used for off-camera flash  
photography, correct exposure may not be achieved in i-TTL mode. We  
recommend that you choose spot metering to select standard i-TTL flash  
control. Take a test shot and view the results in the monitor.  
In i-TTL, use the flash panel or bounce adapter provided with the flash  
unit. Do not use other panels such as diffusion panels, as this may  
produce incorrect exposure.  
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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.  
Preflashes reflected from objects in all areas of frame are picked up by  
1,005-segment RGB sensor and are analyzed in combination with range  
information from matrix metering system to adjust flash output for  
natural balance between main subject and ambient background  
lighting. If type G or D lens is used, distance information is included  
when calculating flash output. Precision of calculation can be increased  
for non-CPU lenses by providing lens data (focal length and maximum  
aperture; see pg. 218). Not available when spot metering is used.  
Standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR: Flash output adjusted to bring lighting in  
frame to standard level; brightness of background is not taken into  
account. Recommended for shots in which main subject is emphasized  
at expense of background details, or when exposure compensation is  
used. Standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR is activated automatically when  
spot metering is selected.  
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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  
between 1/250 and 1/60 s (1/8,000 to 1/60 s with Auto FP  
High-Speed Sync).  
Front-curtain  
sync  
Flash is combined with shutter speeds as slow as 30 s to  
capture both subject and background at night or under  
dim light. This mode is only available in exposure modes  
eand g. Tripod is recommended to prevent blurring  
caused by camera shake.  
Slow sync  
In exposure modes fand h, flash fires just before the  
shutter closes. Use to create effect of a stream of light  
behind moving objects. In exposure modes eand g,  
slow rear-curtain sync is used to capture both subject  
and background. Tripod is recommended to prevent  
blurring caused by camera shake.  
Rear-curtain  
sync  
In this mode (available only with SB-900, SB-800, SB-600,  
and SB-400), red-eye reduction pre-flash lights for  
approximately one second before main flash. Pupils in  
subject’s eyes to contract, reducing “red-eye” effect  
sometimes caused by flash. Owing to one-second  
shutter-release delay, this mode is not recommended  
with moving subjects or in other situations in which  
quick shutter response is required. Avoid moving  
camera while red-eye reduction pre-flash is lit.  
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Red-eye  
reduction  
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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  
in exposure modes eand g. Tripod is recommended to  
prevent blurring caused by camera shake.  
Red-eye  
reduction with  
slow sync  
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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:  
Main-command  
dial  
M button  
Front-curtain sync  
Slow sync 1  
Rear-curtain sync 2  
Red-eye reduction with  
slow sync 3, 4  
Red-eye reduction 3  
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1 Available only in exposure modes eand g. In modes fand h, front-  
curtain sync is selected when M button is released.  
2 In exposure modes eand g, flash-sync mode will be set to slow  
rear-curtain sync when the M button is released.  
3 Yicon blinks if flash unit does not support red-eye reduction.  
4 Red-eye reduction with slow sync is available only in exposure  
modes eand g. In modes fand h, red-eye reduction is selected when  
the M button is released.  
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A Studio Flash Systems  
Rear-curtain sync can not be used with studio flash systems, as the correct  
synchronization can not be obtained.  
A Shutter Speed and Aperture  
Shutter speed and aperture can be set as follows when a Speedlight is  
used:  
Mode  
Shutter speed  
Aperture  
See page  
Set automatically by camera  
(1/250 s–1/60 s) 1, 2  
e
114  
Set automatically  
by camera  
Value selected by user  
(1/250 s–30 s) 2  
f
g
h
116  
118  
120  
Set automatically by camera  
(1/250 s–1/60 s) 1, 2  
Value selected  
by user 3  
Value selected by user  
(1/250 s–30 s) 2  
1
2
Shutter speed may be set as slow as 30s in slow sync, slow rear-curtain  
sync, and slow sync with red-eye reduction flash modes.  
Speeds as fast as 1/8,000 s are available with optional SB-900, SB-800, and  
SB-600 flash units when [1/250 s (Auto FP)] is selected for Custom Setting  
e1 ([Flash sync speed], pg. 326).  
3
Flash range varies with aperture and ISO sensitivity. When setting aperture  
in exposure modes gand h, consult the table of flash ranges provided with  
optional Speedlight.  
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A See Also  
For information on choosing a flash sync speed, see Custom Setting e1  
([Flash sync speed], pg. 326). For information on choosing the slowest  
shutter speed available when using the flash, see Custom Setting e2  
([Flash shutter speed], pg. 327).  
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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. button] > [FUNC. button  
press], pg. 333).  
2 Attach a CLS-compatible flash unit.  
Mount an SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, or SU-800 on the  
camera accessory shoe.  
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3 Set the flash unit to TTL or AA mode.  
Turn the flash unit on and set the flash mode to TTL or AA. See  
the Speedlight instruction manual for details.  
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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 (Pand e) will  
appear in the top control panel and  
viewfinder.  
Fn button  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
6 Recompose the photograph.  
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7 Take the photograph.  
Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to  
shoot. If desired, additional pictures can be taken without  
releasing FV lock.  
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8 Release FV lock.  
Press the Fn button to release FV lock. Confirm that the FV lock  
icons (Pand e) are no longer displayed in the top control  
panel and viewfinder.  
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A Metering  
The metering areas for FV lock are as follows:  
Speedlight  
Flash mode  
i-TTL  
Metered area  
5-mm circle in center of frame  
Area metered by flash exposure  
meter  
Stand-alone flash unit  
AA  
i-TTL  
AA  
A (master  
flash)  
Entire frame  
Used with other flash  
units (Advanced  
Wireless Lighting)  
Area metered by flash exposure  
meter  
A See Also  
For information on using the depth-of-field preview or AE-L/AF-L button for  
FV lock, see Custom Setting f5 ([Assign preview button], pg. 339) or  
Custom Setting f6 ([Assign AE-L/AF-L button], pg. 340).  
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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). The accessory shoe is  
equipped with a safety lock for Speedlights  
with a locking pin, such as the SB-900, SB-800,  
SB-600, and SB-400.  
The Sync Terminal  
A sync cable can be connected to the sync  
terminal as required. Do not connect  
another flash unit via a sync cable when  
performing rear-curtain sync flash  
photography with a flash unit mounted on  
the camera accessory shoe.  
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D Use Only Nikon Flash Accessories  
Use only Nikon Speedlights. Negative voltages or voltages over 250 V  
applied to the accessory shoe could not only prevent normal operation,  
but damage the sync circuitry of the camera or flash. Before using a Nikon  
Speedlight not listed in this section, contact a Nikon-authorized service  
representative for more information.  
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t
Other 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............................................................ pg. 221  
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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.  
ISO WB  
button button  
Default  
Off  
Option  
Focus point  
Default  
Center  
Option  
Shutter-speed  
lock  
Programmed  
auto  
Exposure mode  
Flexible program  
Bracketing  
Flash mode  
FV lock  
Off 2  
Off  
Front-curtain  
sync  
Exposure  
compensation  
Off  
Off  
AE hold  
Off 1  
Off  
Multiple  
exposure  
Off  
Aperture lock  
1 Custom Setting f6 ([Assign AE-L/AF-L button], pg. 340) is unaffected.  
2 Number of shots is reset to zero. Bracketing increment is reset to 1EV  
(exposure/flash bracketing) or 1 (white balance bracketing).  
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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  
Default  
Auto *  
100  
White balance  
ISO sensitivity  
* Fine-tuning off.  
If the current Picture Control has been modified, existing settings  
for the Picture Control will also be restored.  
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A See Also  
See page 422 for a list of default settings.  
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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.  
Creating a Multiple Exposure  
Note that at default settings, shooting will end and a multiple  
exposure will be recorded automatically if no operations are  
performed for 30 s.  
1 Select [Multiple exposure].  
Highlight [Multiple exposure]  
in the shooting menu (pg. 290)  
and press 2.  
2 Select [Number of shots].  
Highlight [Number of shots]  
and press 2.  
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A Extended Recording Times  
For an interval between exposures of more than 30 s, select [On] for the  
[Image review] (pg. 287) option in the playback menu and extend the  
monitor-off delay using Custom Setting c4 ([Monitor off delay], pg. 319).  
The maximum interval between exposures is 30 s longer than the option  
selected for Custom Setting c4.  
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3 Select the number of shots.  
Press 1or 3to 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  
recorded (gain for each exposure is set to 1/2 for 2  
exposures, 1/3 for 3 exposures, etc.).  
On  
(default)  
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Gain is not adjusted when recording multiple exposure.  
Recommended if background is dark.  
Off  
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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 Frame a photograph,  
focus, and shoot.  
In continuous high-speed and continuous low-  
speed release modes (pg. 86), the camera will  
record all exposures in a single burst. In single-frame release  
mode, one photograph will be taken each time the shutter-  
release button is pressed; continue shooting until all  
exposures have been recorded (for information on  
interrupting a multiple exposure before all photographs are  
recorded, see page 210).  
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The n icon will blink until shooting  
ends. When shooting ends, multiple  
exposure mode will end and the n  
icon will no longer be displayed.  
Repeat steps 1–7 to take additional  
multiple exposures.  
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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.  
If no operations are performed for 30 s after the monitor has turned off  
during playback or menu operations, shooting will end and a multiple  
exposure will be created from the exposures that have been recorded to  
that point.  
A Voice Memos  
The camera stores only the last voice memo created during a multiple  
exposure.  
A Interval Timer Photography  
If interval timer photography is activated before the first exposure is  
taken, the camera will record exposures at the selected interval until the  
number of exposures specified in the multiple exposure menu have been  
taken (the number of shots listed in the interval timer shooting menu is  
ignored). These exposures will then be recorded as a single photograph  
and multiple exposure mode and interval timer shooting will end.  
Cancelling multiple exposure cancels interval timer shooting.  
A Other Settings  
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While multiple exposure mode is in effect, memory cards can not be  
formatted and the following can not be changed: image area, bracketing,  
and shooting menu options other than [White balance] and [Interval  
timer shooting] (note that [Interval timer shooting] can only be adjusted  
before the first exposure is taken). The [Lock mirror up for cleaning] and  
[Dust off ref photo] options in the setup menu can not be used.  
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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. If [Auto gain] is on, gain will be adjusted to  
reflect the number of exposures actually recorded. Note that  
shooting will end automatically if:  
A two-button reset is performed (pg. 204)  
The camera is turned off  
The battery is exhausted  
Pictures are deleted  
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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).  
D Before Shooting  
Choose single-frame (S), continuous low speed (CL), or continuous high  
speed (CH) release mode when using the interval timer. Before beginning  
interval timer photography, take a test shot at current settings and view  
the results in the monitor. Remember that the camera will focus before  
each shot—no shots will be taken if the camera is unable to focus in  
single-servo AF.  
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Before choosing a starting time, select [World time] in the setup menu  
and make sure that the camera clock is set to the correct time and date  
(pg. 40).  
Use of a tripod is recommended. Mount the camera on a tripod before  
shooting begins.  
To ensure that shooting is not interrupted, be sure the battery is fully  
charged.  
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3 Choose a start time.  
Press 4or 2to highlight  
hours or minutes; press 1or  
3to change. The starting  
time is not displayed if [Now]  
is selected for [Choose start  
time].  
4 Choose an interval.  
Press 4or 2to highlight  
hours, minutes, or seconds;  
press 1or 3to 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.  
5 Choose the number of  
intervals and number of  
shots per interval.  
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Press 4or 2to highlight  
number of intervals or  
number of shots; press 1or  
3to change. The total  
number of shots that will be  
taken is displayed to the right.  
Total  
number of  
shots  
Number  
of shots/  
interval  
Number of  
intervals  
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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. If shooting can not proceed at  
current settings (for example, if a shutter speed of Ais  
currently selected in manual exposure mode or the start time  
is in less than a minute), a warning will be displayed in the  
monitor.  
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A The Viewfinder Eyepiece  
In exposure modes other than manual, close the  
viewfinder eyepiece shutter to prevent light  
entering via the viewfinder from interfering with  
exposure.  
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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. If  
exposure and/or flash bracketing is active while interval timer  
photography is in effect, the camera will take the number of shots in the  
bracketing program at each interval, regardless of the number of shots  
specified in the interval timer menu. If white balance bracketing is active  
while interval timer photography is in effect, the camera will take one shot  
at each interval and process it to create the number of copies specified in  
the bracketing program.  
A During Shooting  
During interval timer photography, the Q  
icon in the top control panel will blink.  
Immediately before the next shooting interval  
begins, the shutter speed display will show the  
number of intervals remaining, and the aperture  
display will show the number of shots remaining in the current interval.  
At other times, the number of intervals remaining and the number of  
shots in each interval can be viewed by pressing the shutter-release  
button halfway (once the button is released, the shutter speed and  
aperture will be displayed until the exposure meters turn off).  
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To view current interval timer settings, select  
[Interval timer shooting] between shots. While  
interval timer photography is in progress, the  
interval timer menu will show the starting time,  
the shooting interval, and the number of  
intervals and shots remaining. None of these  
items can be changed while interval timer  
photography is in progress.  
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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.  
Choose a new starting trigger  
and start time as described  
on page 211.  
2 Resume shooting.  
Highlight [Start] > [Restart]  
and press J. Note that if  
interval timer photography  
was paused during shooting,  
any shots remaining in the  
current interval will be canceled.  
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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.  
No Photograph  
Photographs will not be taken if the previous photograph is yet to  
be taken, the memory buffer or memory card is full, or the camera  
is unable to focus in single-servo AF (note that the camera focuses  
again before each shot).  
A Release Mode  
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Regardless of the release mode selected, the camera will take the  
specified number of shots at each interval. In CH (continuous high speed)  
mode, photographs will be taken at a rate of five shots per second or, if  
[DX format (24 × 16)] is selected for [Image area], at the frame rate  
selected for Custom Setting d2 [Shooting speed] (pg. 321) > [Continuous  
high-speed]. In S (single frame) and CL (continuous low-speed),  
photographs will be taken at the rate chosen for Custom Setting d2  
[Shooting speed] (pg. 321) > [Continuous low-speed].  
A Using the Monitor  
Pictures can be played back and shooting and menu settings can be  
adjusted freely while interval timer photography is in progress. The  
monitor will turn off automatically about four seconds before each  
interval.  
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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. 290), interval timer settings will be  
reset as follows:  
Choose start time: Now  
Interval: 00:01':00"  
Number of intervals: 1  
Number of shots: 1  
Start shooting: Off  
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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. If the focal length of the lens is known:  
Automatic power zoom can be used with SB-900, SB-800, and  
SB-600 Speedlights (available separately)  
Lens focal length is listed (with an asterisk) in the playback photo  
info display  
When the maximum aperture of the lens is known:  
The aperture value is displayed in the top control panel and  
viewfinder  
Flash level is adjusted for changes in aperture  
Aperture is listed (with an asterisk) in the playback photo info  
display  
Specifying both the focal length and maximum aperture of the  
lens:  
Enables color matrix metering (note that it may be necessary to  
use center-weighted or spot metering to achieve accurate results  
with some lenses, including Reflex-Nikkor lenses)  
Improves the precision of center-weighted and spot metering  
and i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR  
t
A Focal Length Not Listed  
If the correct focal length is not listed, choose the closest value greater  
than the actual focal length of the lens.  
A Zoom Lenses  
Lens data are not adjusted when non-CPU lenses are zoomed in or out.  
After changing the zoom position, select new values for lens focal length  
and maximum aperture.  
218  
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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 4or 2to choose a lens  
number between 1 and 9.  
3 Select a focal length.  
Highlight [Focal length (mm)]  
and press 4or 2to choose a  
focal length between 6 and  
4,000 mm.  
4 Select a maximum  
aperture.  
t
Highlight [Maximum aperture]  
and press 4or 2to choose a  
maximum aperture between  
f/1.2 and f/22. The maximum aperture for teleconverters is the  
combined maximum aperture of the teleconverter and lens.  
219  
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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. Non-CPU lens number selection can be assigned to the  
Fn button (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).  
2 Use the selected control to choose a lens number.  
t
Press the selected button and rotate the main command dial  
until the desired lens number is displayed in the top control  
panel.  
Focal length Maximum aperture  
Main command dial  
Lens number  
220  
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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).  
The GP-1 GPS Unit  
The GP-1 is an optional GPS unit designed for use with Nikon  
digital cameras. For information on connecting the unit, see the  
manual provided with the GP-1.  
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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.  
These devices connect to the MC-35 using a cable with a D-sub 9-  
pin connector provided by the manufacturer of the GPS device.  
See the MC-35 instruction manual for details. Before turning the  
camera on, set the GPS device to NMEA mode (4800 baud).  
MC-35  
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The kIcon  
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  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
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.  
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A GPS Data  
GPS data are only recorded when the k icon is  
displayed. Confirm that the k icon is displayed  
in the top control panel before shooting. A  
flashing k icon indicates that the GPS device is  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
searching for a signal; pictures taken while the k  
icon is flashing will not include GPS data.  
223  
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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]. This reduces the drain on the  
(default) battery but may prevent GPS data from being recorded if  
the shutter-release button is pressed all the way down  
without pausing.  
Exposure meters will not turn off while a GPS unit is  
connected; GPS data will always be recorded.  
Disable  
[Position]: This item is only available if a GPS device is connected,  
when it displays the current latitude, longitude, altitude,  
Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and heading (if supported) as  
reported by the GPS device.  
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A Heading  
The heading is only recorded if the GPS device is  
equipped with a digital compass (note that the  
GP-1 is not equipped with a compass). Keep the  
GPS device pointing in the same direction as the  
lens and at least 20 cm (8 in.) from the camera.  
A Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)  
UTC data is provided by the GPS device and is independent of the camera  
clock.  
224  
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I
More 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. 244  
Deleting Individual Photographs............................... pg. 245  
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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). Note that because the camera itself is  
already in the appropriate orientation during  
shooting, images are not rotated automatically  
during image review (pg. 228).  
226  
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To  
Use  
Description  
View  
additional  
photographs  
Press 2 to view photographs in order  
recorded, 4to view photographs in  
reverse order.  
View photo  
information  
Press 1or 3to view information  
about current photograph (pg. 229).  
View  
thumbnails  
See page 241 for more information on  
the thumbnail display.  
N +  
Zoom in on  
photograph  
See page 243 for more information on  
playback zoom.  
N +  
Confirmation dialog will be displayed.  
Press O again to delete photo  
(pg. 245).  
Delete images  
O
H
If voice memo has not been recorded,  
voice memo will be recorded while H  
button is pressed. If voice memo has  
been recorded, pressing H button will  
start playback (pg. 248).  
Record/play  
voice memo  
Change  
protect  
status  
To protect image, or to remove  
protection from protected image, press  
L
L
button (pg. 244).  
I
View images  
on other  
memory card  
If two memory cards are inserted,  
choose memory card from which  
pictures are played back (pg. 228).  
N +  
Return to  
shooting  
mode  
Monitor will turn off. Photographs  
can be taken immediately.  
/
K
Display menus  
See page 277 for more information.  
G
227  
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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. In continuous  
release mode, display begins when shooting ends, with the first  
photograph in the current series displayed.  
A Two Memory Cards  
If two memory cards are inserted, holding the N  
button and pressing 1in full-frame or thumbnail  
playback will display the menu shown at right.  
Highlight the desired slot and press J. The same  
method can be used to choose a slot when  
selecting images for operations in the playback  
(pg. 278) or retouch menus (pg. 363) or when  
choosing an image as the source for preset white balance (pg. 156).  
A See Also  
For information on choosing how long the monitor will remain on when  
no operations are performed, see Custom Setting c4 [Monitor off delay]  
(pg. 319).  
The roles of the multi selector buttons can be reversed, so that the 1and  
3buttons display other images and the 4and 2buttons control photo  
information. See Custom Setting f3 [Photo info/playback] (pg. 332) for  
details.  
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Photo Information  
Photo information is superimposed on images displayed in full-  
frame playback. There are up to 9 pages of information for each  
photo. Press 1or 3to 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). GPS data are only displayed if a GPS device was used  
when the photo was taken.  
1/  
10  
1/  
10  
N
I
KO  
N
D3X  
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
L
AT I TUDE  
N
.
35  
E
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35 971'  
LONGI TUDE  
.
139  
35  
º
43 696  
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ALT I TUDE  
T I  
M
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UTC  
15  
/
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2008  
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6
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:
01 15 00  
0. 0  
AUTO 0,  
100NCD  
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105 17º  
0
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604N8Ox4R032  
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N
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KON  
D3X  
File information  
Overview data  
GPS data  
-
100  
1
I
Highlights  
,
,
.
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
,
,
,
.
TR SPDD AP  
1
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6
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O
100  
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ARTIST  
PYRI GHT  
NIKON TARO  
NI KON  
E
, EXP. TUN  
OCAL LE  
I
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0, 0,  
85mm  
85  
C
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F
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T
H
LE  
S
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1. 4  
A
FN  
VM  
R
S
FL  
A
S
H
ODE,  
100-1  
-
100 1  
N
I
KON  
D3  
X
-
100 1  
N
I
KO  
N
D
3X  
Shooting data pages 1–3  
RGB histogram  
Shooting data page 4  
229  
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File Information  
1
2
3
4
5
6
1/  
10  
15  
14  
13  
_
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100NCD  
3X  
D
S
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7
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12  
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2008 10 15 00  
12  
11  
10  
9
8
1 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 8 Image size ..................................... 70  
2 Protect status ............................ 244 9 Image area 2 ................................. 60  
3 Retouch indicator .................... 363 10 Image authentication .............356  
4 Focus point 1.............................. 282 11 Time of recording....................... 40  
5 AF area brackets...................47, 92 12 Date of recording ....................... 40  
6 Frame number/  
total number of frames  
7 Image quality ...............................66  
13 Slot number.................................. 42  
14 Folder name ...............................293  
15 File name.....................................296  
1
2
Displayed only if [Focus point] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 282).  
Displayed in yellow if [DX format (24 × 16)] or [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] was selected  
for the [Image area] option (pg. 60) in the shooting menu.  
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Highlights 1  
1
2
3
5
6
-
100 1  
4
7
1 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 5 Image highlights 2...................282  
2 Protect status ............................ 244 6 Folder number–frame  
number 3......................................293  
7 Current channel 2  
3 Retouch indicator .................... 363  
4 Highlight display indicator... 282  
1
2
Displayed only if [Highlights] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 282).  
Blinking areas indicate highlights (areas that may be  
overexposed) for current channel. Press 4or 2while  
pressing N button to cycle through channels as  
follows:  
RGB  
R
G
B
(all channels)  
(red)  
(green)  
(blue)  
I
3
Displayed in yellow if [DX format (24 × 16)] (a) or [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] (b) was  
selected for the [Image area] option (pg. 60) in the shooting menu.  
231  
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RGB Histogram 1  
1
2
3
8
4
5
9
100-1  
10  
6
7
1 Voice memo icon ...................... 248 6 Histogram (RGB channel) 4. In all  
histograms, horizontal axis gives  
pixel brightness, vertical axis  
number of pixels.  
7 Current channel 2  
8 Histogram (red channel) 4  
9 Histogram (green channel) 4  
10 Histogram (blue channel) 4  
2 Protect status ............................. 244  
3 Retouch indicator ..................... 363  
4 Image highlights 2 .................. 282  
5 Folder number–frame  
number 3 ...................................... 293  
1
2
Displayed only if [RGB histogram] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 282).  
Blinking areas indicate highlights (areas that may be  
overexposed) for current channel. Press 4or 2while  
pressing N button to cycle through channels as  
follows:  
I
RGB  
R
G
B
(all channels)  
(red)  
(green)  
(blue)  
Highlight display off  
3
Displayed in yellow if [DX format (24 × 16)] (a) or [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] (b) was  
selected for the [Image area] option (pg. 60) in the shooting menu.  
232  
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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.  
Histograms can provide a rough idea of overall exposure when bright ambient  
lighting makes it difficult to see photographs in the monitor.  
I
A Histograms  
Camera histograms are intended as a guide only and may differ from  
those displayed in imaging applications.  
233  
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Shooting Data Page 1 1  
3
1
2
,
,
.
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
.
,
,
.
,
TR SPDD AP  
1 8000 F2 8  
MXP.  
M
O
E, NI SN  
O
4
.
E
Hi 0 3  
5
6
+
+
, EXP. TUN  
I
G
1mm3,  
5 6  
1. 4  
+ .  
F
OCAL LE  
G
T
H
85  
85  
C
7
LE  
S
FN VM  
R
8
A
9
FL  
A
S
H
O
D
E,  
,
,
Optional TTL 1 3  
10  
SLOW  
-
N
I
KON  
D3X  
100 1  
11  
12 13  
1 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 8 Lens data .....................................218  
2 Protect status ............................ 244 9 Focus mode.................................. 74  
Lens VR  
3 Retouch indicator .................... 363  
(vibration reduction) 4 ...........382  
4 Metering method .................... 110  
Shutter speed...................116, 120  
Aperture.............................118, 120  
10 Flash mode .................................194  
Flash compensation  
Commander mode 5  
5 Exposure mode ........................ 112  
ISO sensitivity 2 ......................... 104  
11 Camera name  
12 Image area 6 ................................. 60  
6 Exposure compensation ....... 128  
Optimal exposure tuning 3 ... 316 13 Folder number–frame  
number 6......................................293  
7 Focal length ............................... 386  
1
2
3
Displayed only if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 282).  
Displayed in red if photo was taken with ISO sensitivity auto control on.  
Displayed if Custom Setting b6 ([Fine tune optimal exposure]) has been set  
to a value other than zero for any metering method.  
Displayed only if VR lens is attached.  
I
4
5
Displayed only if optional flash unit SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 is  
used.  
6
Displayed in yellow if [DX format (24 × 16)] or [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] was selected  
for the [Image area] option (pg. 60) in the shooting menu.  
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Shooting Data Page 2 1  
1
2
3
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
4
5
W
HI TE BALANCE  
, A6,  
M1  
COLOR SPACE  
P ICTURE CTRL  
QU I CK AD J US T  
SHARPENING  
CONTRAST  
Adobe RGB  
6
STANDARD  
7
0
3
0
0
0
0
8
9
10  
11  
12  
BRIGHTNESS  
SATURAT ION  
HUE  
-
N
I
KON  
D3X  
100 1  
13  
14 15  
1 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 8 Sharpening .................................167  
2 Protect status ............................ 244 9 Contrast .......................................167  
3 Retouch indicator .................... 363 10 Brightness ...................................167  
4 White balance ........................... 140 11 Saturation 4 .................................167  
Color temperature................... 147  
White balance fine-tuning ... 143  
Preset manual .......................... 148  
Filter effects 5..............................167  
12 Hue 4..............................................167  
Toning 5 ........................................167  
5 Color space................................. 183  
13 Camera name  
14 Image area 6 ................................. 60  
6 Picture Control.......................... 162  
7 Quick adjust 2 ............................ 167  
15 Folder number–frame  
Original Picture Control 3 ...... 173  
number 6......................................293  
1
2
3
4
5
6
Displayed only if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 282).  
[Standard] and [Vivid] Picture Controls only.  
[Neutral], [Monochrome], and custom Picture Controls.  
Not displayed with monochrome Picture Controls.  
Monochrome Picture Controls only.  
I
Displayed in yellow if [DX format (24 × 16)] or [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] was selected  
for the [Image area] option (pg. 60) in the shooting menu.  
235  
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Shooting Data Page 3 1  
1
2
3
.
:
:
:
.
.
N
OI SE REDUC  
HI I SO/LONG EXP  
4
5
6
7
-
.
.
ACT D L IGHT  
NORMAL  
VIGNETTE CTRL NORMAL  
-
:
:
:
:
:
:
RETOUCH  
D L IGHT ING  
W
AR  
CYANOTYPE  
TRI  
SPRING HAS CO  
M
F I LTER  
M
COMMENT  
M
E
SP  
8
.
RING HAS CO  
M
E
3636  
-
N
I
KO  
N
D3  
X
100 1  
9
10 11  
1 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 6 Vignette control........................299  
2 Protect status ............................ 244 7 Retouch history.........................363  
3 Retouch indicator .................... 363 8 Image comment .......................350  
4 High ISO noise reduction...... 300 9 Camera name  
10 Image area 2 ................................. 60  
Long exposure noise  
reduction .................................... 300  
5 Active D-Lighting..................... 181  
11 Folder number–frame  
number 2......................................293  
1
2
Displayed only if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 282).  
Displayed in yellow if [DX format (24 × 16)] or [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] was selected  
for the [Image area] option (pg. 60) in the shooting menu.  
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Shooting Data Page 4 1  
1
2
3
:
:
4
5
ARTIST  
NIKON TARO  
NI KON  
COPYRI GHT  
-
N
I
KON  
D3  
X
100 1  
6
7
8
1 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 6 Camera name  
2 Protect status ............................ 244 7 Image area 2 ................................. 60  
3 Retouch indicator .................... 363 8 Folder number–frame  
number 2......................................293  
4 Name of photographer......... 357  
5 Copyright holder..................... 357  
1
Displayed only if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 282) and  
copyright information was appended to photograph (pg. 357).  
Displayed in yellow if [DX format (24 × 16)] or [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] was selected  
for the [Image area] option (pg. 60) in the shooting menu.  
2
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GPS Data 1  
1
2
3
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
L
AT I TUDE  
N
4
5
.
35  
E
º
35 971'  
LONG I TUDE  
.
139  
35  
º
43 696  
'
ALT I TUDE  
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1 Voice memo icon ..................... 248 7 Coordinated Universal Time  
(UTC)  
8 Heading 2  
9 Camera name  
10 Image area 3 ................................. 60  
2 Protect status ............................ 244  
3 Retouch indicator .................... 363  
4 Latitude  
5 Longitude  
11 Folder number-frame  
6 Altitude  
number 3......................................293  
1
2
3
Displayed only if GPS device was used when photo was taken (pg. 221).  
Displayed only if GPS device is equipped with electronic compass.  
Displayed in yellow if [DX format (24 × 16)] or [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] was selected  
for the [Image area] option (pg. 60) in the shooting menu.  
I
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Overview Data  
1
2
3
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1/10  
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1 Frame number/  
total number of frames  
2 Voice memo icon ..................... 248  
3 Protect status ............................ 244  
4 Camera name  
7 ISO sensitivity 1 ..........................104  
8 Focal length................................386  
9 GPS data indicator ...................221  
10 Image comment indicator ....350  
11 Flash mode .................................194  
12 Flash compensation  
5 Retouch indicator .................... 363  
6 Histogram showing the  
distribution of tones in the  
image (pg. 233). Horizontal axis  
corresponds to pixel brightness,  
vertical axis shows number of  
pixels of each brightness in  
image.  
13 Exposure compensation........128  
14 Metering method.....................110  
15 Exposure mode.........................112  
16 Shutter speed .................. 116, 120  
17 Aperture ............................ 118, 120  
I
1
Displayed in red if photo was taken with ISO sensitivity auto control on.  
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1/  
10  
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D3X  
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19  
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26 25  
24 23  
22 21  
18 Picture Control........................... 162 26 Folder name ................................293  
19 Active D-Lighting...................... 181 27 Date of recording ........................ 40  
20 File name ..................................... 296 28 Slot number................................... 42  
21 Image quality ................................66 29 White balance.............................140  
Color temperature ....................147  
White balance fine-tuning.....143  
Preset manual ............................148  
22 Image size.......................................70  
23 Image area 2...................................60  
24 Image authentication  
30 Color space ..................................183  
indicator....................................... 356  
25 Time of recording ........................40  
2
Displayed in yellow if [DX format (24 × 16)] or [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] was selected  
for the [Image area] option (pg. 60) in the shooting menu.  
I
240  
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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.  
Full-frame playback  
Thumbnail playback  
I
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The following operations can be performed while thumbnails are  
displayed:  
To  
Use  
Description  
Press N button and rotate main  
command to left to display one,  
four, or nine images per page.  
Change number of  
images displayed  
N +  
Press center of multi selector to  
switch back and forth between full  
frame and thumbnail playback.  
Toggle full frame  
playback  
Use multi selector to highlight  
images for full-frame playback,  
playback zoom (pg. 243), or deletion  
(pg. 245).  
Highlight images  
Press N button and rotate sub-  
command dial to scroll through  
images a page at a time.  
Page through  
images  
N +  
Delete highlighted  
photo  
Record/play voice  
memo  
Change protect status  
of highlighted photo  
See page 245 for more information.  
See page 248 for more information.  
See page 244 for more information.  
O
H
L
View images on  
other memory N +  
If two memory cards are inserted,  
choose memory card from which  
pictures are played back (pg. 228).  
I
card  
Return to shooting  
mode  
Monitor will turn off. Photographs  
can be taken immediately.  
/
K
Display menus  
See page 277 for more information.  
G
A See Also  
For information on choosing the role played by the center of the multi  
selector, see Custom Setting f1 [Multi selector center button] (pg. 331).  
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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  
Use  
Description  
Press N button to  
display frame  
showing area  
currently zoomed  
in. While N  
Zoom in or  
out  
button is pressed, main command dial  
can be used to control size of frame—  
rotate dial left to zoom out, right to zoom  
36 × 24 (3 : 2) format images in up to 27 ×  
(large images), 20 × (medium images) or  
13 × (small images). Release N button  
to magnify selected area to fill monitor.  
N +  
Use multi selector to view area not visible  
in monitor. Keep multi selector pressed  
to scroll rapidly to other areas of frame.  
View other  
areas of image  
N +  
Rotate main command dial to view same  
location in other images at current zoom  
ratio.  
View other  
images  
I
Change  
protect status  
See page 244 for more information.  
L
Return to  
shooting  
mode  
Monitor will turn off. Photographs can be  
taken immediately.  
/
K
Display  
menus  
See page 277 for more information.  
G
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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 full-  
frame playback or  
playback zoom or  
highlight it in the  
thumbnail list.  
2 Press the L button.  
The photograph will be  
marked with a a icon. To  
remove protection from the  
photograph so that it can be  
deleted, display the  
photograph or highlight it in the thumbnail list and then press  
the L button.  
I
A Voice Memos  
Changes to the protect status of images also apply to any voice memos  
that may have been recorded with the images. Voice memo overwrite  
status can not be set separately.  
A Removing Protection from All Images  
To remove protection from all images in the folder or folders currently  
selected in the [Playback folder] menu, press the L and O buttons  
together for about two seconds.  
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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.  
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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). The [After delete] option in the playback menu determines  
whether the next image or the previous image is displayed after an image  
is deleted (pg. 287).  
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e
Voice 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. 253  
e
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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. The  
following options are available:  
Option  
Description  
Y
Off (default) Voice memos can not be recorded in shooting mode.  
Selecting this option displays  
menu shown at right; select  
maximum recording time  
from 5 (default), 10, 20, 30, 45,  
or 60 s. Unless [On] is  
On  
Z
(Auto and selected for [Image review] in  
manual)  
playback menu (pg. 287),  
recording will begin when shutter-release button is  
released after shooting. Recording ends when H  
button is pressed or after specified recording time has  
ended.  
e
Manual  
only  
Memo can be recorded for most recent photograph  
by pressing and holding H button (pg. 250).  
a
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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  
shooting mode if one already exists for  
most recent image.  
Disable  
(default)  
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.  
Voice Memo Button  
This option controls manual recording. The  
following options are available:  
Option  
Description  
Pressand Voice memo is recorded while H  
b hold  
button is held down. Recording  
(default) will end automatically after 60 s.  
Recording begins when H  
Press to button is pressed and ends  
c start/  
when H button is pressed again.  
Recording will end  
stop  
automatically after 60 s.  
e
A Voice Memo  
The option selected for [Voice memo] is indicated by an icon in the rear  
control panel.  
On (auto and manual)  
Manual only  
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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. A voice memo will be recorded while  
the button is held down (note that no voice  
memo will be recorded if the H button is not  
H button  
held down for at least one second).  
D Automatic Recording  
e
Voice memos will not be recorded automatically if [On] is selected for the  
[Image review] option (pg. 287) in the playback menu. A voice memo can  
however be added to the photograph displayed during image review  
even if [Off] is selected for the [Voice memo] option in the setup menu.  
D Slot 2  
If two memory cards are inserted and [Backup] or [RAW Slot 1-JPEG Slot 2]  
is selected for the [Slot 2] option (pg. 72) in the shooting menu, voice  
memos will be associated with the images recorded to the memory card  
in slot 1.  
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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 voice memo will be recorded while  
the H button is held down (note that no  
voice memo will be recorded if the H  
button is not held down for at least one  
H button  
second).  
A During Recording  
During recording, the C icons in the rear  
control panel will blink. A countdown timer in  
the rear control panel shows the length of the  
voice memo that can be recorded (in  
seconds).  
e
Rear control panel  
In playback mode, a C icon is displayed in the  
monitor during recording.  
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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.  
Rear control panel  
If a voice memo exists for the photograph  
currently selected in playback mode, a h icon  
will be displayed in the monitor.  
A Voice Memo File Names  
Voice memos are stored as WAV files with names of the form  
xxxxnnnn.WAV,” where “xxxxnnnn” is a file name copied from the image  
with which the voice memo is associated. For example, the voice memo  
for the image “DSC_0002.JPG” would have the file name “DSC_0002.WAV.”  
Voice memo file names can be viewed on a computer.  
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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  
Description  
Press H to start playback. Playback will end when H  
button is pressed again or entire memo has been  
played back.  
Start/end  
playback  
H
Confirmation dialog will be  
displayed. Press 1or 3to  
highlight option, press O to  
select.  
[Image/sound]: Delete both  
photo and voice memo.  
Delete  
voice  
memo  
O
[Sound only]: Delete voice  
memo only.  
To exit without deleting image or voice memo, press  
the K button.  
e
A Interrupting Playback  
Playback will end automatically if:  
The G button is pressed to display the menus  
The monitor is turned off by pressing the K button or by pressing the  
shutter-release button halfway  
The camera is turned off  
Another image is selected  
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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  
Description  
Voice memos are played  
back over built-in speaker.  
Selecting this option  
displays menu shown at  
right. Press 1or 3to  
change volume. Beep will  
sound when option is  
Via speaker  
(default)  
d
selected. Press J to make selection and return to  
setup menu.  
HDMI/audio-  
video output  
e
f
Audio signal output to HDMI or A/V-OUT terminal.  
Voice memos are not played back. b icon is  
displayed when photo for which voice memo exists  
is viewed in monitor.  
Off  
e
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Q
Connections  
– 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. 262  
Direct USB Connection................................................................ pg. 263  
Viewing Photographs on TV ........................................ pg. 274  
Standard Definition Devices...................................................... pg. 274  
High-Definition Devices.............................................................. pg. 276  
Q
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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.  
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.  
Q
A Camera Control Pro 2  
Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately; pg. 391) can be used to control  
the camera from a computer. Before connecting the camera, set the  
camera [USB] option (pg. 257) to [MTP/PTP]. When Camera Control Pro 2  
is running, “c” will be displayed in the top control panel.  
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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.  
Operating system *  
Windows Vista Service Pack 1 (32-bit  
Home Basic/Home Premium/  
Business/Enterprise/Ultimate  
editions)  
Windows XP Service Pack 3  
(Home Edition/Professional)  
Mac OS X  
Nikon Transfer Camera Control Pro 2  
Choose  
Choose  
[MTP/PTP] or  
[MTP/PTP]  
[Mass Storage]  
(version 10.3.9, 10.4.11, or 10.5.5)  
* See the websites listed on page xxiv for the latest information on supported  
operating systems.  
Q
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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.  
Power switch  
3 Turn the computer on.  
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.  
Q
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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.  
Power switch  
5 Turn the camera on.  
If [Mass Storage] is selected for [USB]  
(pg. 257), cwill 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.  
Transfer photographs to the computer as described in the  
online help for Nikon Transfer. To view the online help, start  
Nikon Transfer and select [Nikon Transfer help] from the Nikon  
Transfer [Help] menu.  
Q
D During Transfer  
Do not turn the camera off or disconnect the USB cable while transfer is in  
progress.  
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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.  
Windows XP Home Edition / Windows XP Professional  
Click the “Safely Remove Hardware” icon  
(
) in the taskbar and select [Safely  
remove USB Mass Storage Device] from  
the menu that appears.  
Mac OS X  
Drag the camera volume (“NIKON D3X”)  
into the Trash.  
Q
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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  
server.  
Transfer mode  
Thumbnail Preview photographs on computer monitor before  
select mode upload.  
Control camera from computer using Camera Control  
Pro 2 (available separately).  
PC mode  
Print JPEG photographs on printer connected to network  
Print mode  
computer.  
For more information, see the WT-4 user’s manual. Be sure to  
update to the latest versions of the WT-4 firmware and supplied  
software.  
Q
D USB  
Select [MTP/PTP] for the camera [USB] option (pg. 257) before connecting  
a WT-4 wireless transmitter.  
D WT-4A/B/C/D/E  
The principal difference between the WT-4 and WT-4A/B/C/D/E is in the  
number of channels supported; unless otherwise stated, all references to  
the WT-4 also apply to the WT-4A/B/C/D/E.  
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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. 440), photographs can  
be selected for printing using [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 272).  
Print JPEG photographs on a printer connected to a network  
computer using the WT-4 wireless transmitter (available  
separately; see the WT-4 user’s manual for details).  
Transfer pictures (pg. 256) and print them from a computer using  
ViewNX (supplied) or Capture NX 2 (available separately; pg.  
391). Note that this is the only method available for printing  
RAW (NEF) pictures.  
Q
A TIFF Photographs  
TIFF photographs can be printed from a computer. Some digital print  
services may also support TIFF; check with the service before ordering.  
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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 multiple  
photographs  
(pg. 268)  
Create index prints  
(pg. 271)  
Print photographs  
one at a time  
(pg. 265)  
Disconnect USB cable  
D USB Hubs  
Q
Connect the camera directly to the computer; do not connect the cable  
via a USB hub or keyboard.  
A Printing Via Direct USB Connection  
Be sure the battery is fully charged or use an optional EH-6 AC adapter.  
When taking photographs to be printed via direct USB connection, set  
[Color space] to [sRGB] (pg. 183).  
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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 Turn the camera on.  
A welcome screen will be displayed in the monitor, followed  
by a PictBridge playback display.  
Q
q
w
264  
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Printing Pictures One at a Time  
1 Select a picture.  
Press 4or 2to 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.  
Press J to display PictBridge printing  
options.  
J button  
Q
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3 Adjust printing options.  
Press 1or 3to highlight an option and press 2to select.  
Option  
Description  
Menu shown at right will be  
displayed. Press 1or 3to  
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 1or 3to  
No. of choose number of copies  
copies (maximum 99), then press J to  
select and return to previous  
menu.  
Menu shown at right will be  
displayed. Press 1or 3to  
choose print style from [Printer  
default] (default for current  
printer), [Print with border] (print  
Border  
photo with white border), or [No  
border], then press J to select  
and return to previous menu.  
Menu shown at right will be  
displayed. Press 1or 3to  
choose [Printer default] (default  
Time for current printer), [Print time  
stamp stamp] (print time and date of  
recording on photo), or [No time  
stamp], then press J to select  
and return to previous menu.  
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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. To cancel  
before all copies have been  
printed, press J.  
Q
D Selecting Photographs for Printing  
Images created at image quality settings of NEF (RAW) or TIFF (RGB)  
(pg. 66) can not be selected for printing.  
A See Also  
See page 420 for information on what to do if an error occurs during  
printing.  
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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.  
To create an index print of all JPEG pictures on the memory  
card, select [Index print]. See page 271 for more information.  
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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  
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.  
L button  
Keeping the L button  
pressed, press 1or 3to specify the number of prints (up to  
99; to deselect the picture, press 3when the number of prints  
is 1). Continue until all the desired pictures have been  
selected.  
4 Display printing options.  
Press J to display PictBridge printing  
options.  
J button  
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5 Adjust printing options.  
Press 1or 3to highlight an  
option and press 2to select.  
Option  
Description  
Menu of page size options will be displayed (pg. 266).  
Press 1or 3to choose page size (to print at default  
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). Press  
1or 3to choose print style from [Printer default]  
Page size  
Border (default for current printer), [Print with border] (print  
photo with white border), or [No border], then press J  
to select and return to previous menu.  
Menu of time stamp options will be displayed (pg. 266).  
Press 1or 3to choose [Printer default] (default for  
current printer), [Print time stamp] (print time and date  
of recording on photo), or [No time stamp], then press J  
Time  
stamp  
to select and return to previous menu.  
6 Start printing.  
Select [Start printing] and press J to  
start printing. To cancel before all copies  
have been printed, press J.  
A Page Size, Border, Time Stamp, and Cropping  
Q
Choose printer default to print at current printer settings. Only options  
supported by the current printer can be selected. Note that print quality may  
drop if small crops are printed at large sizes.  
A See Also  
See page 420 for information on what to do if an error occurs during  
printing.  
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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.  
3 Adjust printing options.  
Choose page size, border, and time  
stamp options as described on page 270  
(a warning will be displayed if the  
selected page size is too small).  
Q
4 Start printing.  
Highlight [Start printing] and press J to  
start printing. To cancel before printing  
is complete, press J.  
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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 Select pictures.  
Use the multi selector to scroll  
through the pictures on the  
memory card. To display the  
current picture in full screen,  
press N button. To select the  
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.  
L button  
Keeping the L button  
pressed, press 1or 3to specify the number of prints (up to  
99; to deselect the picture, press 3when the number of prints  
is 1). Press J when all the desired pictures have been  
selected.  
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3 Select imprint options.  
Highlight the following options and  
press 2to 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.  
D Print Set  
To print the current print order when the camera is connected to a  
PictBridge printer, select [Print (DPOF)] in the PictBridge menu and follow  
the steps in “Printing Multiple Pictures” to modify and print the current  
order (pg. 268). DPOF date and data imprint options are not supported  
when printing via direct USB connection; to print the date of recording on  
photographs in the current print order, use the PictBridge [Time stamp]  
option.  
The Print Set option can not be used if there is not enough space on the  
memory card to store the print order.  
Q
Images created at image quality settings of NEF (RAW; pg. 66) can not be  
selected for printing using this option.  
Print orders may not print correctly if images are deleted using a  
computer or other device after the print order is created.  
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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.  
2 Connect the supplied A/V cable as shown.  
Connect to  
camera  
Video  
Audio  
(yellow)  
(white)  
Q
Connect to video  
device  
3 Tune the television to the video channel.  
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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. When the EH-6 is connected, the camera monitor-off  
delay will be fixed at ten minutes and the exposure meters will no longer  
turn off automatically. Note that the edges may not be visible when  
photographs are viewed on a television screen.  
Q
A Audio Output (pg. 254)  
Set [HDMI/audio-video output] to play back or record voice memos on the  
video device.  
A Slide Shows  
The [Slide show] option in the playback menu can be used for automated  
playback (pg. 288).  
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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 high-  
definition device  
3 Tune the device to the HDMI channel.  
4 Turn the camera on and press K button.  
During playback, images will be displayed on the high-  
definition television or monitor screen; the camera monitor  
will remain off.  
Q
A HDMI (pg. 348)  
At the default setting of [Auto], the camera automatically selects the  
appropriate HDMI format for the high-definition device. The HDMI format  
can be chosen using the [HDMI] option in the setup menu (pg. 348).  
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U
Menu 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. 363  
O My Menu: Creating a Custom Menu....................... pg. 376  
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DThe 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).  
Option  
See page  
281  
Delete  
Playback folder  
Hide image  
281  
281  
Display mode  
Copy image(s)  
Image review  
After delete  
Rotate tall  
282  
283  
287  
287  
287  
Slide show  
288  
Print set (DPOF)  
289  
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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.  
2 Press the center of the  
multi selector to select the  
highlighted picture.  
Selected pictures are marked  
by an icon. When selecting  
pictures for printing, press the  
L button and press 1or 3  
to choose the number of copies.  
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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.  
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Delete  
Select this option to delete pictures and their associated voice  
memos. Protected and hidden images will not be deleted.  
Option  
Selected  
Description  
Delete selected pictures.  
Q
R
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.  
All  
Playback Folder  
Choose a folder for playback.  
Option  
Description  
NCD3X  
(default)  
All  
Pictures in all folders created with the D3X will be  
visible during playback.  
Pictures in all folders will be visible during playback.  
Only pictures in the current folder will be visible  
during playback.  
Current  
Hide Image  
Hide or reveal selected pictures. Hidden pictures are visible only in  
the [Hide image] menu and can only be deleted by formatting the  
memory card.  
Option  
Description  
Select/set  
Hide or reveal selected pictures.  
Deselect all? Reveal all pictures.  
D Protected and Hidden Images  
Revealing a protected image will also remove protection from the image.  
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Display Mode  
Choose the information available in the  
playback photo information display  
(pg. 229). Press 1or 3to highlight an  
option, then press 2to 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. No focus point is displayed if  
camera was unable to focus using continuous-servo  
autofocus or if continuous-servo autofocus was used  
with auto-area AF.  
Focus point  
Detailed photo info  
Highlights for master RGB channel and for individual  
Highlights red, green, and blue channels are shown in photo  
information display. Very bright areas blink on and off.  
RGB  
histogram information display.  
Shooting data pages (including camera name,  
Red, green, and blue histograms are displayed in photo  
Data  
metering, exposure, focal length, white balance, and  
image options) appear in photo information display.  
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Copy Image(s)  
Copy photographs from the memory card in slot 1 to the memory  
card in slot 2.  
Option  
Description  
Select image(s)  
Selectdestination Select destination folder on memory card in  
folder  
Select photographs from memory card in slot 1.  
i
j
slot 2.  
Copy selected photographs to specified  
destination.  
Copy image(s)?  
1 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.  
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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. To  
select additional images or  
deselect preselected pictures,  
highlight the image and press  
the center of the multi selector. Press J to return to the [Copy  
image(s)] menu when selection is complete.  
5 Choose [Select destination  
folder].  
Highlight [Select destination  
folder] and press 2.  
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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.  
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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. Hidden or  
protected files in the destination  
folder will not be replaced.  
Select [Skip] to cancel replacement and proceed to copy remaining files.  
Select [Cancel] to cancel before copying is complete.  
Copies have the same protect marking as the original; print marking is not  
copied. Voice memos will be copied with their associated images.  
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Image Review  
Choose whether pictures are automatically displayed in the  
monitor immediately after shooting.  
Option  
On  
Description  
Pictures are automatically displayed in the monitor after  
shooting.  
Off (default) Pictures can only be displayed by pressing K button.  
After Delete  
Choose the picture displayed after an image is deleted.  
Option  
Description  
Show next Display following picture. If deleted picture was last  
S
T
(default)  
Show  
frame, previous picture will be displayed.  
Display previous picture. If deleted picture was first  
frame, following picture will be displayed.  
previous  
If user was scrolling through pictures in order  
recorded, following picture will be displayed as  
described for [Show next]. If user was scrolling  
through pictures in reverse order, previous picture  
will be displayed as described for [Show previous].  
Continueas  
before  
U
Rotate Tall  
Choose whether to rotate “tall” (portrait-orientation) pictures for  
display during playback. Note that because the camera itself is  
already in the appropriate orientation during shooting, images are  
not rotated automatically during image review (pg. 228).  
Option  
Description  
Tall” (portrait-orientation) pictures are automatically  
rotated for display in the camera monitor. Pictures taken  
with [Off] selected for [Auto image rotation] (pg. 351) will  
be displayed in “wide” (landscape) orientation.  
Tall” (portrait-orientation) pictures are displayed in  
On  
U
Off  
(default) “wide” (landscape) orientation.  
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Slide Show  
Create a slide show of the pictures in the current playback folder  
(pg. 281). Hidden images (pg. 281) are not displayed.  
Option  
Start  
Description  
Start slide show.  
Frame interval Choose how long each picture will be displayed.  
Display menu of voice memo playback options  
(pg. 289).  
Audio playback  
To start the slide show, highlight [Start] and press J. The  
following operations can be performed while the slide show is in  
progress:  
To  
Press  
Description  
Skip back/skip  
ahead  
Press 4to return to previous frame, 2to skip  
to next frame.  
View additional  
photo info  
Change photo info displayed (pg. 229).  
Pause slide show (see following page). Voice  
memo playback may continue after J button  
has been pressed.  
Pause slide show  
J
Exit to playback  
menu  
Exit to playback  
mode  
G
K
End slide show and return to playback menu.  
End slide show and exit to full-frame (pg. 226)  
or thumbnail playback (pg. 241).  
Exit to shooting  
mode  
Press shutter-release button halfway to return  
to shooting mode.  
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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  
entire memo has not been played.  
Frame interval  
Next frame is not displayed until entire memo has been  
played, even if frame interval is shorter than voice  
memo.  
Length of  
voice memo  
Choose [Off] (the default option) to disable voice memo playback  
during slide shows.  
Print Set (DPOF)  
Choose [Select/set] to select pictures for printing on a DPOF-  
compatible device (pg. 272). Choose [Deselect all?] to remove all  
pictures from the current print order.  
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C TheShootingMenu: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  
See page  
291  
293  
293  
296  
72  
Image quality  
66  
Image size  
70  
Image area  
60  
JPEG compression  
NEF (RAW) recording  
White balance  
Set Picture Control  
Manage Picture Control  
Color space  
Active D-Lighting  
Vignette control  
Long exp. NR  
68  
69  
140  
162  
170  
183  
181  
299  
300  
300  
104  
90  
High ISO NR  
ISO sensitivity settings  
Live view  
Multiple exposure  
Interval timer shooting  
206  
211  
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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. 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. Different combinations of settings can be stored  
in the other banks, allowing the user to switch instantly from one  
combination to another by selecting the appropriate bank from  
the bank menu.  
The default names for the four shooting menu banks are A, B, C,  
and D. A descriptive caption can be added using the [Rename]  
option as described below.  
A Shooting Menu Bank  
The top control panel and shooting information  
displays show the current shooting menu bank.  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
Renaming Shooting Menu Banks  
Selecting [Rename] in the [Shooting menu bank] menu displays  
the list of shooting menu banks shown in Step 1.  
1 Select a bank.  
U
Highlight the desired bank and  
press 2.  
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Keyboard area  
2 Enter a name.  
To move the cursor in the name  
area, press the N button and  
press 4or 2. To enter a new  
letter at the current cursor  
position, use the multi selector  
to highlight the desired  
Name area  
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. Any  
characters after the twentieth will be deleted.  
3 Save changes and exit.  
After editing the name, press J to save  
changes and exit.  
J button  
The [Shooting menu bank] menu will  
be displayed.  
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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  
Yes  
Description  
Restore defaults for the current shooting menu bank.  
No (default) Exit without changing shooting menu settings.  
Active Folder  
Select the folder in which subsequent images will be stored.  
New Folder Number  
1 Select [New folder  
number].  
Highlight [New folder number]  
and press 2.  
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2 Choose a folder number.  
Press the 4or 2to highlight a digit, press 1or 3to 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.  
Press J to complete the operation and return to the shooting  
menu (to exit without changing the active folder, press the  
G button). If a folder with the specified number does not  
already exist, a new folder will be created. Subsequent  
photographs will be stored in the selected folder unless it is  
already full.  
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Select Folder  
1 Choose [Select folder].  
Highlight [Select folder] and press 2.  
2 Highlight a folder.  
Press 1or 3to 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.  
D Folder and File Numbers  
If the current folder is numbered 999 and contains 999 pictures or a  
picture numbered 9999, the shutter-release will be disabled and no  
further photographs can be taken. To continue shooting, create a folder  
with a number less than 999, or select an existing folder with a number  
less than 999 and less than 999 images.  
A Number of Folders  
Additional time may be required for camera startup if the memory card  
contains a very large number of folders.  
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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). Note that the portion of the  
name that can be edited is a maximum of three characters long.  
A Extensions  
The following extensions are used: .NEF” for NEF (RAW) images, .TIF” for  
TIFF (RGB) images, .JPG” for JPEG images, and .NDF” for dust off reference  
data.  
Slot 2  
Choose the role played by the secondary card slot when two  
memory cards are inserted in the camera (pg. 72).  
Image Quality  
Choose image quality (pg. 66).  
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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).  
NEF (RAW) Recording  
Choose compression and bit-depth options for NEF (RAW) images  
(pg. 69).  
White Balance  
Adjust white balance settings (pg. 140).  
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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].  
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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].  
A Vignette Control  
Depending on the scene, shooting conditions, and type of lens, TIFF and  
JPEG images may exhibit unevenness or variations in peripheral  
brightness, while custom Picture Controls and Nikon Picture Controls that  
have been modified from default settings may not produce the desired  
effect. Take test shots and view the results in the monitor. Vignette  
control does not apply to multiple exposures (pg. 206), DX-format images  
(pg. 60), or images created with [Image overlay] (pg. 371). The effects of  
vignette control can not be previewed in live view (pg. 90).  
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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  
approximately equal to the  
current shutter speed. In  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
On  
continuous release mode, frame  
rates will slow and the capacity of the memory buffer will  
drop. Photographs can not be taken until processing is  
complete and “l m” has cleared from the displays.  
Noise reduction will not be performed if the camera is  
turned off before processing is complete.  
Off (default) Long exposure noise reduction off.  
High ISO NR  
Photographs taken at high ISO sensitivities can be processed to  
reduce “noise.”  
Option  
Description  
S
High  
Normal  
(default)  
Noise reduction is performed at ISO sensitivities of  
ISO 500 and higher. While photographs are being  
processed, the capacity of the memory buffer will drop.  
Choose the amount of noise reduction performed from  
[High], [Normal], and [Low].  
T
U
Low  
Noise reduction is only performed at sensitivities of  
Hi 0.3 and higher. The amount of noise reduction is less  
than the amount performed when [Low] is selected for  
[High ISO NR].  
U
Off  
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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).  
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ACustom Settings:  
Fine-Tuning Camera Settings  
Custom Setting groups  
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  
B: Custom setting A: Reset custom  
bank (pg. 304)  
settings (pg. 304)  
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The following Custom Settings are available:  
Custom Setting  
Custom setting bank  
Reset custom settings  
Autofocus  
Page  
304  
304  
Custom Setting  
Shooting/display  
Page  
B
A
a
d
d1 Beep  
320  
321  
321  
322  
323  
324  
325  
325  
d2 Shooting speed  
a1 AF-C priority selection  
a2 AF-S priority selection  
a3 Dynamic AF area  
a4 Focus tracking with lock-on 309  
a5 AF activation  
a6 Focus point illumination  
a7 Focus point wrap-around  
a8 AF point selection  
a9 B button  
305  
306  
307  
d3 Max. continuous release  
d4 File number sequence  
d5 Control panel/viewfinder  
d6 Shooting info display  
d7 LCD illumination  
d8 Exposure delay mode  
Bracketing/flash  
e1 Flash sync speed  
e2 Flash shutter speed  
e3 Modeling flash  
e4 Auto bracketing set  
e5 Auto bracketing (Mode M)  
e6 Bracketing order  
309  
310  
311  
311  
312  
313  
e
326  
327  
327  
328  
329  
330  
a10 Vertical B button  
Metering/exposure  
b1 ISO sensitivity step value  
b
314  
314  
b2 EV steps for exposure cntrl.  
b3 EV steps for exposure comp. 314  
f
Controls  
b4 Easy exposure compensation 315  
f1 Multi selector center button 331  
b5 Center-weighted area  
b6 Fine tune optimal exposure 316  
Timers/AE lock  
c1 Shutter-release button AE-L 318  
316  
f2 Multi selector  
332  
332  
333  
339  
340  
341  
343  
344  
345  
f3 Photo info/playback  
f4 Assign FUNC. button  
f5 Assign preview button  
f6 Assign AE-L/AF-L button  
f7 Customize command dials  
f8 Release button to use dial  
f9 No memory card?  
c
c2 Auto meter-off delay  
c3 Self-timer delay  
318  
319  
319  
c4 Monitor off delay  
f10 Reverse indicators  
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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.  
Different combinations of settings can be stored in the other  
banks, allowing the user to switch instantly from one combination  
to another by selecting the appropriate bank from the bank menu.  
The default names for the four Custom Settings banks are A, B, C,  
and D. A descriptive caption can be added using the [Rename]  
option as described on page 291.  
A Custom Settings Bank  
The bank letter appears in the top control panel  
and shooting information displays. If settings in  
the current bank have been modified from  
default values, an asterisk will be displayed  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
adjacent to the altered settings in the second  
level of the Custom Settings menu.  
A: Reset Custom Settings  
Choose whether to restore default settings for the current Custom  
Settings bank. See page 424 for a list of default settings. Custom  
Settings are not reset when a two-button reset is performed.  
Option  
Yes  
Description  
U
Restore defaults for the current Custom Settings bank.  
No (default) Exit without changing Custom Settings.  
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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  
Description  
Release Photos can be taken whenever the shutter-release  
(default) button is pressed.  
G
Photos can be taken even when the camera is not in  
focus. In continuous mode, frame rate slows for  
improved focus if the subject is dark or low contrast.  
Photos can only be taken when the in-focus indicator  
Release +  
focus  
E
F
Focus  
(I) is displayed.  
Regardless of the option selected, focus will not lock when the in-  
focus indicator (I) is displayed. The camera will continue to adjust  
focus until the shutter is released.  
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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 shutter-  
release button is pressed (release  
priority) in single-servo AF. To  
select single-servo AF, rotate the  
focus mode selector to S.  
Focus mode selector  
Option  
Description  
Photos can be taken whenever the shutter-release  
button is pressed.  
Photos can only be taken when the in-focus indicator  
G
Release  
Focus  
F
(default) (I) is displayed.  
Regardless of the option selected, if the in-focus indicator (I) is  
displayed focus will lock while the shutter-release button is  
pressed halfway. Focus lock continues until the shutter is released.  
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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 focus based on information from the  
surrounding eight focus points. Choose when  
there is time to compose the photograph or when  
photographing subjects that are moving  
predictably (e.g., runners or race cars on a track).  
If the subject leaves the selected focus point, the  
camera will focus based on information from the  
surrounding 20 focus points. Choose when  
photographing subjects that are moving  
unpredictably (e.g., players at a football game).  
If the subject leaves the selected focus point, the  
camera will focus based on information from the  
surrounding 50 focus points. Choose when  
photographing subjects that are moving quickly  
and can not be easily framed in the viewfinder  
(e.g., birds).  
9 points  
(default)  
c
21 points  
51 points  
d
e
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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  
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.  
51 points  
(3D-tracking)  
f
A 3D-Tracking  
When the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, the colors in the area  
surrounding the focus point are stored in the camera. Consequently 3D-  
tracking may not produce the desired results with subjects that are the  
same color as the background or that occupy a very small area of the  
frame.  
A See Also  
For information on using the Fn button and command dials to select the  
number of focus points for dynamic-area AF, see Custom Setting f4  
([Assign FUNC. button]) > [FUNC. button+dials] > [Dynamic AF area] (pg.  
336).  
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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  
camera waits for the specified period (long, normal, or  
short) before adjusting the distance to the subject. This  
prevents the camera from refocusing when the subject is  
briefly obscured by objects passing through the frame.  
The camera immediately adjusts focus when the distance  
to the subject changes. Use when photographing a series  
of subjects at varying distances in quick succession.  
Normal  
(default)  
D
E Short  
Off  
a5: AF Activation  
This option controls whether both the shutter-release button and  
the B button can be used to initiate autofocus, or whether  
autofocus is only initiated when the B button is pressed.  
Option  
Shutter/  
AF-ON  
Description  
Autofocus can be performed with the B button or by  
pressing the shutter-release button halfway.  
(default)  
B only Autofocus can only be performed using the B button.  
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a6: Focus Point Illumination  
The options in this menu control whether or not the focus points  
are illuminated.  
Option  
Manual  
Description  
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  
focus point in CH (continuous high-speed) and CL  
(continuous low-speed) modes.  
Continuous  
mode  
Choose the brightness of the focus point display in the  
viewfinder from [Extra high], [High], [Normal] (the default  
setting), and [Low].  
Focus point  
brightness  
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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,  
bottom to top, right to left, and left  
to right, so that, for example,  
pressing 2when a focus point at  
w
q
Wrap  
the right edge of the viewfinder display is highlighted (q)  
selects the corresponding focus point at the left edge of the  
display (w).  
The focus-area display is bounded by the outermost focus  
points so that, for example, pressing 2when a focus point at  
the right edge of the display is selected has no effect.  
No wrap  
(default)  
a8: AF Point Selection  
Choose the number of focus points available for manual focus-  
point selection.  
Option  
Description  
Choose from the 51 focus points  
shown at right.  
51 points  
B
(default)  
Choose from the 11 focus points  
shown at right. Use for quick  
focus-point selection.  
A 11 points  
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a9: AF-ON Button  
Choose the function performed when the  
B button is pressed.  
Option  
B
Description  
A
Pressing the B button initiates autofocus.  
(default)  
Focus and exposure lock while the B button is  
pressed.  
AE lock only Exposure locks while the B button is pressed.  
B
C
AE/AF lock  
Exposure locks when the B button is pressed, and  
remains locked until the button is pressed a second  
time, the shutter is released, or the exposure meters  
turn off.  
AE lock  
D (Reset on  
release)  
Exposure locks when the B button is pressed, and  
remains locked until the button is pressed a second  
time or the exposure meters turn off.  
AE lock  
E
(Hold)  
F
AF lock only Focus locks while the B button is pressed.  
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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  
for Custom Setting a9.  
Pressing the vertical B button initiates  
autofocus.  
Focus and exposure lock while the vertical B  
button is pressed.  
G
A
B
Same as AF-ON  
AF-ON  
(default)  
AE/AF lock  
Exposure locks while the vertical B button is  
pressed.  
C
AE lock only  
Exposure locks when the vertical B button is  
AE lock (Reset pressed, and remains locked until the button is  
D
on release)  
pressed a second time, the shutter is released, or  
the exposure meters turn off.  
Exposure locks when the vertical B button is  
pressed, and remains locked until the button is  
pressed a second time or the exposure meters  
turn off.  
E AE lock (Hold)  
Focus locks while the vertical B button is  
pressed.  
F
AF lock only  
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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  
(default)  
H
I 1/2 step  
1 step  
J
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  
equivalent to 1/3 EV. The bracketing increment can be  
selected from 1/3, 2/3, and 1 EV.  
1/3 step  
(default)  
H
Changes to shutter speed and aperture are in increments  
I 1/2 step equivalent to 1/2 EV. The bracketing increment can be  
selected from 1/2 and 1 EV.  
Changes to shutter speed and aperture are in increments  
equivalent to 1 EV. The bracketing increment is set to 1 EV.  
J
1 step  
b3: EV Steps for Exposure Comp.  
This option determines whether adjustments  
to exposure compensation are made in  
Option  
1/3 step  
(default)  
H
increments equivalent to 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, or 1 EV.  
I 1/2 step  
1 step  
J
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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  
Description  
Exposure compensation is set by rotating one of the  
command dials (see note below). The setting  
selected using the command dial is reset when the  
camera or exposure meters turn off (exposure  
compensation settings selected using the E button  
are not reset).  
On (Auto  
reset)  
K
As above, except that the exposure compensation  
value selected using the command dial is not reset  
when the camera or exposure meters turn off.  
Exposure compensation is set by pressing the E  
button and rotating the main command dial.  
On  
Off  
(default)  
A Change Main/Sub  
The dial used to set exposure compensation when [On (Auto reset)] or  
[On] is selected for Custom Setting b4 ([Easy exposure compensation])  
depends on the option selected for Custom Setting f7 ([Customize  
command dials]) > [Change main/sub] (pg. 341).  
Customize command dials > Change main/sub  
Off (default)  
On  
e
f
g
h
Sub-command dial  
Sub-command dial  
Main command dial  
Sub-command dial  
Main command dial  
Sub-command dial  
N/A  
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b5: Center-Weighted Area  
When calculating exposure, center-  
Option  
L φ 8 mm  
M φ 12 mm (default)  
N φ 15 mm  
weighted 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 O φ 20 mm  
P Average  
entire frame.  
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).  
When [Average] is selected, the average of the entire frame will be  
used for both CPU and non-CPU lenses.  
b6: Fine Tune Optimal Exposure  
Use this option to fine-tune the exposure value selected by the  
camera. Exposure can be fine tuned separately for each metering  
method by from +1 to –1 EV in steps of 1/6 EV.  
1 Select Custom Setting b6.  
Highlight Custom Setting b6  
([Fine tune optimal exposure])  
and press 2.  
2 Select [Yes].  
The message shown at right  
will be displayed; highlight  
[Yes] and press 2 to proceed,  
or select [No] to exit without  
altering exposure.  
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3 Select a metering method.  
Highlight [Matrix metering],  
[Center-weighted], or [Spot  
metering] and press 2.  
4 Choose an exposure value.  
Press 1or 3to 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. Note that as the exposure  
compensation (E) icon is not displayed, the only way to determine how  
much exposure has been altered is to view the amount in the fine-tuning  
menu. Exposure compensation (pg. 128) is preferred in most situations.  
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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]). The shutter-speed and  
aperture displays in the top control panel and  
viewfinder turn off automatically when the  
exposure meters turn off.  
Option  
4 s  
6 s (default)  
8 s  
Q
R
S
T 16 s  
U 30 s  
V
1 min.  
5 min.  
X 10 min.  
Y 30 min.  
Z No limit  
W
Choose a shorter meter-off delay for longer battery life.  
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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  
2 s  
5 s  
a
b
c 10 s (default)  
d 20 s  
c4: Monitor off Delay  
This option controls how long the monitor  
remains on when no operations are  
Option  
e 10 s  
performed. Choose from 10 s, 20 s, 1 minute, 5  
minutes, or 10 minutes. Choose a shorter  
monitor-off delay for longer battery life.  
Regardless of the setting chosen, the monitor  
remains on if no operations are performed for  
about ten minutes when the camera is  
powered by an optional EH-6 AC adapter.  
f 20 s (default)  
g
1 min.  
5 min.  
h
i 10 min.  
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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  
y High  
Description  
Choose the pitch of the beep  
from [High] and [Low]. A c  
icon is displayed in the top  
control panel and shooting  
information displays.  
SHOOT  
CUSTOM  
z Low  
Off (default) Turn the beep speaker off.  
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d2: Shooting Speed  
Choose the maximum frame advance rate for CH (continuous high-  
speed) 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  
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).  
Regardless of the setting chosen, the maximum frame rate  
for other formats is fixed at 5 fps.  
Continuous  
high-speed  
Choose the frame advance rate for CL (continuous low-  
speed) mode from values between 1 and 5 fps. The default  
setting is 3 fps.  
Continuous  
low-speed  
d3: Max. Continuous Release  
The maximum number of shots that can be taken in a single burst  
in continuous mode can be set to any value between 1 and 130.  
A The Memory Buffer  
Regardless of the option selected for Custom Setting d3, shooting will  
slow when the memory buffer fills. See page 427 for more information on  
the capacity of the memory buffer.  
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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.  
Option  
Description  
When a new folder is created, the memory card  
formatted, or a new memory card inserted in the  
camera, file numbering continues from the last number  
used or from the largest file number in the current  
folder, whichever is higher. If a photograph is taken  
when the current folder contains a photograph  
numbered 9999, a new folder will be created  
automatically and file numbering will begin again from  
0001.  
On  
(default)  
File numbering is reset to 0001 when a new folder is  
created, the memory card is formatted, or a new  
memory card is inserted in the camera. Note that a  
new folder is created automatically if a photograph is  
taken when the current folder contains 999  
photographs.  
Off  
Same as for [On], except that the next photograph  
taken is assigned a file number by adding one to the  
largest file number in the current folder. If the folder is  
empty, file numbering is reset to 0001.  
Reset  
J
D File Number Sequence  
If the current folder is numbered 999 and contains either 999  
photographs or a photograph numbered 9999, the shutter-release button  
will be disabled and no further photographs can be taken. Choose [Reset]  
for Custom Setting d4 ([File number sequence]) and then either format  
the current memory card or insert a new memory card.  
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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). Note that regardless of the  
display  
option selected, memory buffer capacity will be shown  
while the shutter-release button is pressed.  
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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.  
Dark on light  
Light on dark  
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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 shutter-  
release button is pressed. When shooting with [Tripod] selected in  
live view mode (pg. 94) or in situations where the slightest camera  
movement can blur pictures, [On] can be selected to delay shutter  
release until about 1 s after the shutter-release button is pressed  
and the mirror is raised.  
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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 eor 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.  
1/200 s  
1/160 s  
1/125 s  
1/100 s  
1/80 s  
Flash sync speed set to 1/200 s.  
Flash sync speed set to 1/160 s.  
Flash sync speed set to 1/125 s.  
Flash sync speed set to 1/100 s.  
Flash sync speed set to 1/80 s.  
Flash sync speed set to 1/60 s.  
1/60 s  
A Fixing Shutter Speed at the Flash Sync Speed Limit  
To fix shutter speed at the sync speed limit in shutter-priority auto or  
manual exposure modes, select the next shutter speed after the slowest  
possible shutter speed (30 s or bulb). An X (flash sync indicator) will be  
displayed in the viewfinder and top control panel.  
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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]).  
e3: Modeling Flash  
If [On] (the default setting) is selected when the camera is being  
used with an optional flash unit that supports the Nikon Creative  
Lighting System (CLS; pg. 186), the flash unit mounted on the  
camera and any CLS-compatible remote flash units will emit a  
modeling flash when the camera depth-of-field preview button is  
pressed (pg. 113). No modeling flash is emitted if [Off] is selected.  
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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.  
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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  
Description  
Camera varies shutter speed (Custom Setting e4 set  
to [AE only]) or shutter speed and flash level  
(Custom Setting e4 set to [AE & flash]).  
Flash/speed  
(default)  
F
G
Camera varies shutter speed and aperture (Custom  
Flash/speed/ Setting e4 set to [AE only]) or shutter speed,  
aperture  
aperture, and flash level (Custom Setting e4 set to  
[AE & flash]).  
Camera varies aperture (Custom Setting e4 set to  
[AE only]) or aperture and flash level (Custom  
Setting e4 set to [AE & flash]).  
Camera varies flash level only (Custom Setting e4  
set to [AE & flash]).  
Flash/  
aperture  
H
I
Flash only  
Flash bracketing is performed only with i-TTL or AA flash control. If  
a setting other than [Flash only] is selected and a flash is not used,  
ISO sensitivity will be fixed at the value for the first shot, regardless  
of the setting selected for ISO sensitivity auto control (pg. 106).  
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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.  
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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:  
Option  
Description  
Select center  
focus point  
(default)  
Pressing the center of the multi selector in  
shooting mode selects the center focus point.  
J
Pressing the center of the multi selector has no  
effect when the camera is in shooting mode.  
Not used  
Playback Mode  
Selecting [Playback mode] displays the following options:  
Option  
Thumbnail  
on/off  
Description  
Press the center of the multi selector to toggle between  
full-frame and thumbnail playback.  
n
o
(default)  
In both full-frame and thumbnail playback, a histogram  
is displayed while the center of the multi selector is  
pressed.  
View  
histograms  
Press the center of the multi selector to toggle between  
full-frame or thumbnail playback and playback zoom.  
Zoom on/ Choose the initial zoom setting from [Low  
p
off  
magnification], [Medium magnification], and [High  
magnification]. The zoom display will center on the  
active focus point.  
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Live View  
Selecting [Live view] displays the following options:  
Option  
Description  
Select center  
focus point  
(default)  
Pressing the center of the multi selector in live  
view selects the center focus point.  
J
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.  
Zoom on/off  
Not used  
p
Pressing the center of the multi selector has no  
effect in live view.  
f2: Multi Selector  
If [Reset meter-off delay] is selected, operating the multi selector  
when the exposure meters are off (pg. 50) will activate the  
exposure meters. If [Do nothing] (the default option) is selected,  
the exposure meters will not be activated when the multi selector  
is pressed.  
f3: Photo Info/Playback  
At the default setting of [Info13/Playback42], pressing 1or 3  
in full-frame playback changes the photo information displayed,  
while pressing 4or 2displays additional images. To reverse the  
role of the multi selector buttons so that pressing 1or 3displays  
additional images and pressing 4or 2changes the photo  
information displayed, select [Info42/Playback13].  
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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  
(pg. 113).  
Preview *  
q
Press the Fn button to lock flash value (SB-900,  
SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 flash units only,  
pg. 198). Press again to cancel FV lock.  
Focus and exposure lock while the Fn button is  
pressed.  
FV lock *  
r
AE/AF lock  
B
C
AE lock only Exposure locks while the Fn button is pressed.  
Exposure locks when the Fn button is pressed, and  
remains locked until the button is pressed a second  
time, the shutter is released, or the exposure meters  
turn off.  
AE lock  
(Reset on  
D
release) *  
Exposure locks when the Fn button is pressed, and  
remains locked until the button is pressed a second  
time or the exposure meters turn off.  
AE lock  
E
(Hold) *  
AF lock only Focus locks while the Fn button is pressed.  
F
s
The flash will not fire in photos taken while the Fn  
Flash off  
button is pressed.  
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Option  
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  
Bracketing at 5 fps while the shutter-release button is pressed. If  
t
burst  
white balance bracketing is active or continuous  
release mode (mode CH or CL) is selected, the camera  
will repeat the bracketing burst while the shutter-  
release button is held down.  
Matrix  
Matrix metering is activated while the Fn button is  
pressed.  
Center-weighted metering is activated while the Fn  
button is pressed.  
Spot metering is activated while the Fn button is  
pressed.  
The electronic analog exposure displays act as a tilt  
meter (pg. 335).  
L
M
N
u
metering  
Center-  
weighted  
Spot  
metering  
Virtual  
horizon *  
The Fn button performs the same function as the K  
button. Choose when using a long lens or in other  
situations in which it is difficult to operate the K  
button with your left hand.  
D
O
Playback *  
Access top Press the Fn button to jump to the top item in “MY  
item in My MENU.” Select this option for quick access to a  
Menu *  
None  
(default)  
frequently-used menu item.  
No operation is performed when the Fn button is  
pressed.  
* This option can not be used in combination with [FUNC. button+dials] (pg. 336).  
Selecting this options displays a message and sets [FUNC. button+dials] to  
[None]. If another option is selected for [FUNC. button+dials] while this setting is  
active, [FUNC. button press] will be set to [None].  
Note that none of these options can be combined with [FUNC.  
button+dials] > [Dynamic AF area]; see page 336.  
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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.  
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FUNC. Button+Dials  
Selecting [FUNC. button+dials] for Custom Setting f4 displays the  
following options:  
Option  
Choose  
Description  
The Fn button and main command dial can be used  
image area to select the image area from FX, DX, and 5 : 4 (pg.  
(FX/DX/5:4) 60). The image area can not be changed while  
i
m
(default)  
shooting a multiple exposure (pg. 206).  
The Fn button and main command dial can be used  
to switch between FX and DX image areas. The  
image area can not be changed while shooting a  
multiple exposure.  
Choose  
image area  
(FX/DX)  
If the Fn button is pressed when the command dials  
are rotated, changes to shutter speed (exposure  
1 step spd/ modes fand h) and aperture (exposure modes g  
v
aperture  
and h) are made in increments of 1 EV, regardless of  
the option selected for Custom Setting b2 ([EV steps  
for exposure cntrl.], pg. 314).  
Choose non- Press the Fn button and rotate a command dial to  
CPU lens  
number  
choose a lens number specified using the [Non-CPU  
lens data] option (pg. 218).  
Press the Fn button and rotate the command dials  
for vertical shooting to choose a focus point  
(pg. 337).  
w
x
Focus point-  
selection  
If this option is selected, the shooting menu bank  
can be selected by pressing the Fn button and  
rotating a command dial.  
Shooting  
menu bank  
n
When I (dynamic-area AF) is selected in focus  
mode C (continuous-servo autofocus), the number  
of focus points (pg. 307) can be selected by pressing  
Dynamic AF the Fn button and rotating a command dial. The  
z
area  
focus points used for dynamic-area AF are displayed  
in the viewfinder while the Fn button is pressed; if  
[51 points (3D-tracking)] is selected, “3D” will be  
displayed in the viewfinder.  
U
No operation is performed when the command  
dials are rotated while the Fn button is pressed.  
None  
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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.  
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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.  
Main command dial for vertical shooting  
+
Fn button  
Main command dial  
for vertical shooting  
Sub-command dial for vertical shooting  
+
Fn button  
Sub-command dial  
for vertical shooting  
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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. 336), except that the  
default option for [Preview button press] is [Preview] and that  
[Preview + command dials] lacks a [Focus point-selection] option  
(the default setting for [Preview + command dials] is [None]).  
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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. 333), except that [AE-L/AF-L button press]  
defaults to [AE/AF lock] and has an additional B option (if this  
option is selected, pressing the AE-L/AF-L button has the same effect  
as pressing the B button to initiate autofocus). The options  
available for [AE-L/AF-L+command dials] are the same as for  
[FUNC. button+dials] (pg. 336), except that [AE-L/AF-L +command  
dials] defaults to [None] and lacks [1 step spd/aperture] and [Focus  
point-selection] options.  
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f7: Customize Command Dials  
This option controls the operation of the main and sub-command  
dials.  
Option  
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.  
Reverse  
rotation  
At the default setting of [Off], the main command dial  
controls shutter speed and the sub-command dial controls  
aperture. If [On] is selected, the main command dial will  
control aperture and the sub-command dial shutter speed.  
If [On (Mode A)] is selected, the main command dial will be  
used to set aperture in exposure mode gonly. This setting  
also applies to the command dials for vertical shooting.  
Change  
main/sub  
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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). If  
[Aperture ring] is selected and a CPU lens with an aperture  
ring is attached when the mode dial is rotated to a, live view  
will not start and the shutter release will be disabled. Note  
that regardless of the setting chosen, the aperture ring must  
be used to adjust aperture when a non-CPU lens is attached.  
At the default setting of [Off], the multi selector is used to  
choose the picture displayed during full-frame playback,  
highlight thumbnails, and navigate menus. If [On] is selected,  
the main command dial can be used to choose the picture  
displayed during full-frame playback, move the cursor left or  
right during thumbnail playback, and move the menu  
highlight bar up or down. The sub-command dial is used to  
display additional photo information in full-frame playback  
and to move the cursor up or down during thumbnail  
Menus  
and  
playback  
playback. While menus are displayed, rotating the sub-  
command dial right displays the sub-menu for the selected  
option, while rotating it left displays the previous menu. To  
make a selection, press 2, the center of the multi selector, or  
J.  
D Live View  
When using a CPU lens equipped with an aperture ring in live view, select  
[Sub-command dial] for [Aperture setting].  
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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. Setting ends when  
the button is pressed again, the shutter-release button is pressed  
halfway, or any of the I, E, t, M, ISO, QUAL, or WB button is  
pressed. Except when [No limit] is selected for Custom Setting c2  
[Auto meter-off delay], setting will also end when the exposure  
meters turn off.  
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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. Note that when photographs are being captured to a  
computer using Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately),  
photographs are not recorded to the camera memory card and the  
shutter will be enabled regardless of the setting chosen for this  
option.  
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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  
values on the right. Select  
(W) to display  
negative values on the left and positive values on the right.  
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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).  
Option  
Format memory card  
LCD brightness  
Lock mirror up for cleaning 1  
Video mode  
HDMI  
World time  
Language  
Image comment  
Auto image rotation  
Voice memo  
Voice memo overwrite  
Voice memo button  
Audio output  
See page  
347  
347  
400  
348  
348  
349  
349  
350  
351  
248  
249  
249  
254  
352  
353  
355  
261  
356  
357  
358  
221  
360  
218  
361  
362  
USB  
Dust off ref photo  
Battery info  
Wireless transmitter 2  
Image authentication  
Copyright information  
Save/load settings  
GPS  
Virtual horizon  
Non-CPU lens data  
AF fine tune  
Firmware version  
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1
Not available when battery is low.  
2
Only available when optional WT-4 wireless transmitter is connected and  
[MTP/PTP] selected for [USB] (pg. 352).  
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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 1or 3to choose from seven settings  
for monitor brightness. Choose higher  
values for increased brightness, lower values  
for reduced brightness.  
A See Also  
For information on adjusting monitor brightness  
in live view, see page 99.  
Lock Mirror up for Cleaning  
Lock the mirror in the up position to allow inspection or manual  
cleaning of the low-pass filter that protects the camera image  
sensor (pg. 400).  
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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.  
Option  
Description  
The camera automatically selects the  
appropriate format.  
v Auto (default)  
J 480p (progressive) 640 × 480 (progressive) format  
K 576p (progressive) 720 × 576 (progressive) format  
L 720p (progressive) 1,280 × 720 (progressive) format  
M 1080i (interlaced)  
1,920 × 1,080 (interlaced) format  
The camera monitor turns off automatically when an HDMI device  
is connected.  
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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  
set to the time in the new time zone.  
Time zone  
Date and time Set the camera clock (pg. 40).  
Choose the order in which the day, month, and year are  
displayed.  
Date format  
Turn daylight saving time on or off. The camera clock  
will automatically be advanced or set back one hour.  
The default setting is [Off].  
Daylight  
saving time  
Language  
Choose a language for camera menus and messages. The  
following options are available.  
German  
English  
Spanish  
Finnish  
French  
Italian  
Dutch  
Portuguese  
Russian  
Swedish  
Traditional Chinese  
Simplified Chinese  
Japanese  
Korean  
Polish  
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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. [Attach comment] can be  
turned on and off by highlighting it and  
pressing 2.  
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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. Choose  
this option when taking photographs with the lens pointing up or  
down.  
A Rotate Tall  
To automatically rotate “tall” (portrait-orientation) photographs for  
display during playback, select [On] for the [Rotate tall] option in the  
playback menu (pg. 287). Note that because the camera itself is already in  
the appropriate orientation during shooting, images are not rotated  
automatically during image review (pg. 228).  
Voice Memo  
The voice memo menu contains options for recording voice  
memos during shooting. See “Voice Memos: Recording Voice  
Memos” (pg. 248).  
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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).  
USB  
Choose a USB option for connection to a computer or PictBridge  
printer. Choose [MTP/PTP] (the default setting) when connecting  
to a PictBridge printer or an optional WT-4 wireless transmitter or  
when using Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately; see page  
391). See page 257 for information on selecting a USB option for  
use with Nikon Transfer (supplied).  
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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. To exit  
without acquiring image dust off data,  
press G.  
2 Frame a featureless white object in the viewfinder.  
With the lens about ten centimeters (four inches) from a well-  
lit, featureless white object, frame the object so that it fills the  
viewfinder and then press the shutter-release button halfway.  
U
In autofocus mode, focus will automatically be set to infinity;  
in manual focus mode, set focus to infinity manually.  
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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.  
D Image Dust Off Reference Data  
The same reference data can be used for  
photographs taken with different lenses or at  
different apertures. Reference images can not be  
viewed using computer imaging software. A grid  
pattern is displayed when reference images are  
viewed on the camera; histograms and highlights  
are not displayed.  
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Battery Info  
View information on the battery currently  
inserted in the camera.  
Item  
Description  
Bat. meter 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.  
[j]: Due to repeated use and recharging, calibration is  
required to ensure that battery level can be measured  
accurately; recalibrate battery before charging (pg. 437).  
Calibration  
[—]: Calibration not required.  
A five-level display showing battery age. 0 (k) indicates  
that battery performance is unimpaired, 4 (l) that the  
battery has reached the end of its charging life and should  
be replaced. Note that batteries charged at temperatures  
under about 5 °C (41 °F) may show a temporary drop in  
Charging life  
charging life; the charging life display will however return to  
normal once the battery has been recharged at a  
temperature of about 20 °C (68 °F) or higher.  
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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. Photographs taken with image  
authentication on are marked with a p icon on the file information  
and overview data pages of the photo information display (pp.  
230, 240).  
Option  
s On  
Off  
Description  
Image authentication information embedded in new  
photographs as they are taken.  
Image authentication information not embedded in  
(default) new photographs.  
D Camera Control Pro 2  
Image authentication information is not embedded in TIFF (RGB)  
photographs recorded directly to a computer using Camera Control Pro 2  
(available separately).  
A Copies  
Image authentication information is not embedded in copies created  
using the options in the retouch menu (pg. 363).  
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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.  
[Copyright]: Enter the name of the copyright holder as described  
on page 292. Copyright holder names can be up to 54 characters  
long.  
[Attach copyright information]: Select this  
option to attach copyright information to  
all subsequent photographs. [Attach  
copyright information] can be turned on  
and off by highlighting it and pressing 2.  
D Copyright Information  
To prevent unauthorized use of the artist or copyright holder names,  
make sure that [Attach copyright information] is not selected and that the  
[Artist] and [Copyright] fields are blank before lending or transferring the  
camera to another person. Nikon does not accept liability for any  
damages or disputes arising from the use of the [Copyright information]  
option.  
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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  
Option  
Display mode  
Image review  
After delete  
Playback  
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  
Shooting  
(all banks)  
Active D-Lighting  
Vignette control  
Long exp. NR  
High ISO NR  
ISO sensitivity settings  
Live view  
Customsettings  
(all banks)  
All Custom Settings except [Reset custom settings]  
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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  
All recent settings  
Choose tab  
My Menu/  
Recent Settings  
Settings saved using the D3X can be restored by selecting [Load  
settings]. Note that [Save/load settings] is only available when a  
memory card is inserted in slot 1, and that the [Load settings]  
option is only available if the card in slot 1 contains saved settings  
(the memory card in slot 2 can not be used to save or load  
settings).  
A Saved Settings  
Settings are saved in a file named NCSETUP3. The camera will not be able  
to load settings if the file name is changed.  
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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). For information on displaying a virtual horizon in live  
view, see page 99.  
Non-CPU Lens Data  
By specifying lens data (lens focal length and maximum aperture)  
for up to nine non-CPU lenses, the user can gain access to a variety  
of CPU lens functions (pg. 218).  
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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  
AF fine  
tune  
Description  
[On]: Turn AF tuning on.  
[Off] (default): Turn AF tuning off.  
(On/Off)  
Tune AF for the current lens (CPU  
lenses only). Press 1or 3to  
Saved choose a value between +20 and  
value –20. Values for up to 20 lens types  
can be stored. Only one value can  
Move focal  
point away  
from camera.  
Current  
value  
be stored for each type of lens.  
Choose the AF tuning value used  
when no previously saved value  
exists for the current lens (CPU  
Default  
Move focal  
Previous  
point toward value  
camera.  
lenses only).  
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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. To change  
a lens identifier (for example, to choose an identifier that is the  
same as the last two digits of the lens serial number to  
distinguish it from other lenses of the same type in light of the  
fact that [Saved value] can be used with only one lens of each  
type), highlight the desired lens and press 2.  
The menu shown at right will be  
List  
saved  
values  
displayed; press 1or 3to choose an  
identifier and press J to save changes  
and exit.  
D AF Tuning  
The camera may be unable to focus at minimum range or at infinity when  
AF tuning is applied.  
D Live View (Tripod) Mode  
Tuning is not applied to contrast-detect autofocus when [Tripod] is  
selected in live view mode (pg. 94).  
A Saved Value  
Only one value can be stored for each type of lens. If a teleconverter is  
used, separate values can be stored for each combination of lens and  
teleconverter.  
Firmware Version  
View the current camera firmware version.  
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NThe 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).  
Option  
See page  
366  
i
j
k
D-Lighting *  
Red-eye correction *  
Trim  
367  
368  
369  
370  
l
m
Monochrome *  
Filter effects *  
n Color balance *  
370  
o
Image overlay  
371  
p Side-by-side comparison  
374  
* Not available with photographs taken with [Monochrome] selected for [Set  
Picture Control] (pg. 164).  
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Creating Retouched Copies  
1 Select an item in the  
retouch menu.  
Press 1or 3to highlight an  
item, 2to 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. The menu  
shown at right will be displayed  
(pg. 228); highlight the desired slot and  
press J.  
3 Display retouch options.  
Press J to display retouch options (see  
the section for the selected option for  
details). To exit without creating a  
retouched copy, press G.  
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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. 369) and [Image  
overlay], copies created from JPEG images are the same size and quality as  
the original, copies created from NEF (RAW) photos are saved as large  
fine-quality JPEG images, and copies created from TIFF (RGB) photos are  
saved as fine-quality JPEG images of the same size as the original. Size-  
priority compression is used when copies are saved in JPEG format.  
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D-Lighting  
D-Lighting brightens shadows, making it ideal for dark or backlit  
photographs.  
Before  
After  
Press 1or 3to choose the amount of  
correction performed. The effect can be  
previewed in the edit display. Press J to  
copy the photograph.  
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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. Note that red-eye  
correction may not always produce the expected results and may  
in very rare circumstances be applied to portions of the image that  
are not affected by red-eye; check the preview thoroughly before  
proceeding.  
To  
Use  
Description  
Press N button  
and rotate main  
command dial right  
Zoom in  
N +  
to zoom in, left to  
zoom out. While  
photo is zoomed in,  
press N and use  
multi selector to view areas of image not  
visible in monitor. Keep multi selector  
pressed to scroll rapidly to other areas of  
frame. While N button is pressed, area  
currently visible in monitor is indicated by  
yellow border. Press J to cancel zoom.  
Zoom out  
View other  
areas of N +  
image  
N +  
Cancel  
zoom  
J
If the camera detects red-eye in the  
selected photograph, a copy will be created  
that has been processed to reduce its  
effects. No copy will be created if the  
camera is unable to detect red-eye.  
Create  
copy  
J
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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  
Description  
Press N button and rotate main  
command dial right to reduce the size of  
the crop.  
Reduce size  
of crop  
N +  
Press N button and rotate main  
command dial left to increase the size of  
the crop.  
Increase size  
of crop  
N +  
Rotate the main command dial to switch  
between aspect ratios of 3 : 2, 4 : 3, and  
5 : 4.  
Change crop  
aspect ratio  
Use multi selector to move crop to other  
area of image.  
Move crop  
Press center of multi selector to preview  
cropped image.  
Preview crop  
Create copy  
Save the current crop as a separate file.  
J
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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.  
Aspect ratio  
Possible sizes  
4,864 × 3,240, 3,424 × 2,280, 2,560 × 1,704, 1,920 × 1,280,  
1,280 × 856, 960 × 640, 640 × 424  
3 : 2  
4,864 × 3,648, 3,424 × 2,568, 2,560 × 1,920, 1,920 × 1,440,  
1,280 × 960, 960 × 720, 640 × 480  
4,560 × 3,648, 3,216 × 2,568, 2,400 × 1,920, 1,808 × 1,440,  
1,200 × 960, 896 × 720, 608 × 480  
4 : 3  
5 : 4  
Monochrome  
Copy photographs in [Black-and-white],  
[Sepia], or [Cyanotype] (blue and white  
monochrome).  
Selecting [Sepia] or [Cyanotype]  
displays a preview of the selected  
image; press 1to increase color  
saturation, 3to decrease. Press J  
to create a monochrome copy.  
Increase  
saturation  
Decrease  
saturation  
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Filter Effects  
Choose from the following color filter effects. After adjusting filter  
effects as described below, press J to copy the photograph.  
Option  
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.  
Skylight  
Creates a copy with warm tone filter effects, giving the  
Warm filter copy a “warm” red cast. The effect can be previewed in  
the monitor.  
Color Balance  
Use the multi selector to create a copy with  
modified color balance as shown below. The  
effect is displayed in the monitor together  
with red, green, and blue histograms  
(pg. 232) giving the distribution of tones in  
the copy. Press J to copy the photograph.  
Increase amount of green  
Increase  
amount of  
blue  
Increase  
amount of  
amber  
Increase amount of magenta  
A Creating JPEG Copies of NEF (RAW) Pictures  
To create a JPEG copy of an NEF (RAW) picture, select the NEF (RAW)  
picture for [Color balance] and press J without modifying color balance.  
The JPEG copy will have an image quality of “fine” and a size of [L].  
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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). To create a NEF (RAW) copy, choose an image quality of  
[NEF (RAW)].  
1 Select [Image overlay].  
Highlight [Image overlay] in  
the retouch menu and press 2.  
The dialog shown at right will  
be displayed, with [Image 1]  
highlighted.  
2 Display NEF (RAW) images.  
Press J. A picture selection  
dialog will be displayed.  
3 Highlight a photograph.  
Press 134or 2to highlight  
the first photograph in the  
overlay. To view the  
highlighted photograph full  
frame, press and hold the N  
button.  
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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 1or 3to  
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.  
Press 4or 2to highlight  
[Image 2]. Repeat Steps 2–5 to  
select the second photo and  
adjust gain.  
7 Highlight the [Preview]  
column.  
Press 4or 2to highlight the  
[Preview] column.  
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8 Preview the overlay.  
Press 1or 3to 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. Other images are not displayed in the selection screen.  
Only NEF (RAW) photographs with the same image area and bit-depth can  
be combined.  
The overlay has the same photo info (including date of recording,  
metering, shutter speed, aperture, exposure mode, exposure  
compensation, focal length, and image orientation) and values for white  
balance and picture control as the photograph selected for [Image 1].  
Overlays saved in NEF (RAW) format use the compression selected for  
[Type] in the [NEF (RAW) recording] menu and have the same bit depth as  
the original images; JPEG overlays are saved using size-priority  
compression.  
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Side-by-Side Comparison  
Compare retouched copies to the original photographs.  
1 Select [Side-by-side  
comparison].  
Highlight [Side-by-side  
comparison] and press 2to  
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.  
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3 Compare the copy with the  
Options used to  
create copy  
original.  
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 (134or 2) to switch between the  
source image and the retouched copy. To view the  
highlighted picture full frame, press and hold the N button.  
If the copy was created from two images using [Image  
overlay], press 1or 3to view the other source image. To exit  
to playback mode, press the G button. To return to Step 2  
with the highlighted image selected, press J or the center of  
the multi selector.  
D Side-by-Side Comparison  
The source image will not be displayed if the copy was created from a  
photograph that has since been deleted, is currently protected (pg. 244)  
or hidden (pg. 281), or contains embedded image authentication  
information (pg. 356).  
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OMy 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].  
In My Menu (O), highlight [Add  
items] and press 2  
2 Select a menu.  
Highlight the name of the  
menu containing the option  
you wish to add and press 2.  
3 Select an item.  
Highlight the desired menu  
U
item and press J.  
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4 Position the new item.  
Press 1or 3to 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.  
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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 2to  
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.  
A confirmation dialog will be displayed; press O again to remove the  
selected item from My Menu.  
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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 1or 3to 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 1or 3. Release the N button  
when the operation is complete.  
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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].  
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n
Technical 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............................................................................................ pg. 395  
Replacing the Focusing Screen ................................................ pg. 396  
Replacing the Clock Battery....................................................... pg. 398  
The Low-Pass Filter........................................................................ pg. 400  
Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions........... pg. 403  
Troubleshooting............................................................. pg. 407  
Error Messages................................................................ pg. 414  
Appendix ......................................................................... pg. 421  
Specifications.................................................................. pg. 431  
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Compatible Lenses  
Camera setting  
Exposure  
mode  
Focus mode  
Metering system  
M (with  
a
Z
b
S
P
S
A
M
electronic  
C
M
3D Color  
Lens/accessory  
Type G or D AF Nikkor2  
rangefinder)  
3
AF-S, AF-I Nikkor  
PC-E NIKKOR series  
PC Micro 85mm  
f/2.8D4  
AF-S / AF-I Teleconverter7  
Other AF Nikkor  
(except lenses for F3AF)  
AI-P Nikkor  
AI-, AI-modified, Nikkor or  
Nikon Series E lenses12  
Medical-Nikkor 120mm  
f/4  
Reflex-Nikkor  
PC-Nikkor  
AI-type Teleconverter18  
PB-6 Bellows Focusing  
Attachment19  
5
5
5
5
3,5  
5
6
3
3
8
8
9
9
3
10  
3
10  
14  
15  
13  
16  
15  
13  
17  
13  
5
15  
8
14  
8
20  
Auto extension rings  
(PK-series 11A, 12, or 13;  
PN-11)  
8
13  
1 IX-Nikkor lenses can not be used.  
2 Vibration Reduction (VR) supported with VR lenses.  
3 Spot metering meters selected focus point.  
4 The camera’s exposure metering and flash control systems do not work  
properly when shifting and/or tilting the lens, or when an aperture other than  
the maximum aperture is used.  
5 Can not be used with shifting or tilting.  
6 Manual exposure mode only.  
7 Can be used with AF-S and AF-I lenses only (pg. 385).  
8 With maximum effective aperture of f/5.6 or faster.  
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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 <New>, 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. Filters can not be exchanged while AI 200–400mm f/4 ED is mounted on  
camera.  
13 If maximum aperture is specified using [Non-CPU lens data] (pg. 218), aperture  
value will be displayed in viewfinder and top control panel.  
14 Can be used only if lens focal length and maximum aperture are specified using  
[Non-CPU lens data] (pg. 218). Use spot or center-weighted metering if desired  
results are not achieved.  
15 For improved precision, specify lens focal length and maximum aperture using  
[Non-CPU lens data] (pg. 218).  
16 Can be used in manual exposure modes at shutter speeds slower than 1/125 s.  
17 Exposure determined by presetting lens aperture. In aperture-priority auto  
exposure mode, preset aperture using lens aperture ring before performing AE  
lock and shifting lens. In manual exposure mode, preset aperture using lens  
aperture ring and determine exposure before shifting lens.  
18 Exposure compensation required when used with AI 28–85mm f/3.5–4.5, AI 35–  
105mm f/3.5–4.5, AI 35–135mm f/3.5–4.5, or AF-S 80–200mm f/2.8D. See  
teleconverter manual for details.  
19 Requires PK-12 or PK-13 auto extension ring. PB-6D may be required  
depending on camera orientation.  
20 Use preset aperture. In aperture-priority auto exposure mode, set aperture  
using focusing attachment before determining exposure and taking  
photograph.  
PF-4 Reprocopy Outfit requires PA-4 Camera Holder.  
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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  
AF lenses for the F3AF (AF 80mm f/  
2.8, AF 200mm f/3.5 ED, AF  
Teleconverter TC-16)  
focusing unit (400mm f/4.5, 600mm PC 28mm f/4 (serial number 180900  
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  
or earlier)  
PC 35mm f/2.8 (serial numbers  
851001–906200)  
PC 35mm f/3.5 (old type)  
Reflex 1000mm f/6.3 (old type)  
Extension Ring K2  
180–600mm f/8 ED (serial numbers Reflex 1000mm f/11 (serial numbers  
174041–174180)  
142361–143000)  
360–1200mm f/11 ED (serial  
numbers 174031–174127)  
200–600mm f/9.5 (serial numbers  
280001–300490)  
Reflex 2000mm f/11 (serial numbers  
200111–200310)  
A Lens f-number  
The f-number given in lens names is the maximum aperture of the lens.  
A Recognizing CPU and Type G and D Lenses  
CPU lenses can be identified by the presence of CPU contacts, type G and  
D lenses by a letter on the lens barrel. Type G lenses are not equipped  
with a lens aperture ring.  
CPU contacts  
CPU lens  
Aperture ring  
Type G lens  
Type D lens  
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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/2.8D ED  
AF-S 500mm f/4D ED II 2  
1 Autofocus not supported.  
AF-S 500mm f/4D ED 2  
AF-I 500mm f/4D ED 2  
AF-S 600mm f/4D ED II 2  
AF-S 600mm f/4D ED 2  
AF-I 600mm f/4D ED 2  
AF-S VR 70–200mm f/2.8G ED  
AF-S 80–200mm f/2.8D ED  
AF-S VR 200–400mm f/4G ED 2  
AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8G ED VR  
AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4G ED VR 2  
AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4G ED VR 2  
2 Autofocus not supported when used with AF-S Teleconverter TC-17E II/TC-20E II.  
A Compatible Non-CPU Lenses  
If lens data are specified using [Non-CPU lens data] (pg. 218), many of the  
features available with CPU lenses can also be used with non-CPU lenses.  
If lens data are not specified, color matrix metering can not be used, and  
center-weighted metering is used when matrix metering is selected.  
Non-CPU lenses can only be used in exposure modes gand h, when  
aperture must be set using the lens aperture ring. If the maximum  
aperture has not been specified using [Non-CPU lens data], the camera  
aperture display will show the number of stops from maximum aperture;  
the actual aperture value must be read off the lens aperture ring.  
Aperture-priority auto will be selected automatically in exposure modes e  
and f. The exposure-mode indicator (eor f) in the top control panel will  
blink, and gwill be displayed in the viewfinder.  
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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).  
To choose a picture angle different from that of the current lens, turn  
[Auto DX crop] off and select from [FX format (36 × 24)], [DX format  
(24 × 16)], and [5 : 4 (30 × 24)]. If a 35mm format lens is attached, the  
picture angle could be reduced by 1.5 × by selecting [DX format (24 × 16)],  
exposing a smaller area, or the aspect ratio could be changed by selecting  
[5 : 4 (30 × 24)].  
[FX format (36 × 24)] picture size (35.9 × 24.0 mm,  
equivalent to 35mm format camera)  
Picture diagonal  
Lens  
[DX format (24 × 16)] picture size  
(23.6 × 15.7 mm, equivalent to DX  
format camera)  
[5 : 4 (30 × 24)] picture size  
(30.0 × 24.0 mm)  
Picture angle ([FX format (36 × 24)];  
35mm format)  
Picture angle ([DX format (24 × 16)]; DX format)  
Picture angle ([5 : 4 (30 × 24)])  
The [DX format (24 × 16)] picture angle is about 1.5 times smaller than the  
35mm format picture angle, while the [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] picture angle is  
about 1.1 times smaller. To calculate the focal length of lenses in 35mm  
format when [DX format (24 × 16)] is selected, multiply the focal length of  
the lens by about 1.5, or by about 1.1 when [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] is selected (for  
example, the effective focal length of a 50mm lens in 35mm format would  
be 75 mm when [DX format (24 × 16)] is selected, or 55 mm when [5 : 4  
(30 × 24)] is selected).  
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Other Accessories  
At the time of writing, the following accessories were available for  
the D3X.  
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  
Power  
charger.  
sources  
Quick Charger MH-22, MH-21 (pp. 32, 437): The MH-22, MH-21 can  
be used to recharge and calibrate EN-EL4a and EN-EL4  
batteries.  
AC Adapter EH-6: The EH-6 can be used to power the camera for  
extended periods.  
Wireless Transmitter WT-4: Connects the camera to wireless and  
Ethernet networks. The photographs on the camera  
memory card can be viewed by computers on the same  
network or copied to a computer for long-term storage. The  
camera can also be controlled from any computer on the  
network using Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately).  
Note that the WT-4 requires an independent power source;  
an EH-6 AC adapter or an EN-EL3e battery is recommended.  
See the WT-4 manual for details.  
Wireless  
LAN  
adapters  
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Focusing Screens (pg. 396): The focusing screens available for  
the D3X are listed below.  
Type B  
Brite View  
clear-matte  
VI focusing  
screen  
A type B focusing screen  
is supplied with the  
camera.  
Type E focusing screens  
are etched with a grid,  
making them suitable  
for copying and  
Type E  
clear-matte  
VI focusing  
screen  
architectural  
Viewfinder  
eyepiece  
accessories  
photography. Best  
results are achieved with  
PC-Nikkor lenses.  
Magnifier DG-2: The DG-2 magnifies the scene displayed in the  
viewfinder. Use for close-up photography, copying,  
telephoto lenses, and other tasks that call for added  
precision. DK-18 eyepiece adapter (available separately)  
required.  
Antifog Finder Eyepiece DK-14, DK-17A: These viewfinder eyepieces  
prevent fogging in humid or cold conditions. The DK-17A is  
equipped with a safety lock.  
Rubber Eyepiece Cup DK-19: The DK-19 makes the image in the  
viewfinder easier to see, preventing eye fatigue.  
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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.  
Magnifying Eyepiece DK-17M: The DK-17M magnifies the view  
Viewfinder through the viewfinder by approximately 1.2 × for greater  
eyepiece  
precision when framing.  
accessories Right-Angle Magnifying Viewing Attachment DR-5/Right-Angle Viewing  
Attachment DR-4: The DR-5 and DR-4 attach to the viewfinder  
eyepiece at a right angle, allowing the image in the  
viewfinder to be viewed from above when the camera is in  
the horizontal shooting position. The DR-5 can also magnify  
the view through the viewfinder by 2 × for greater precision  
when framing (note that the edges of the frame will not be  
visible when the view is magnified).  
Eyepiece Adapter DK-18: The DK-18 is used when attaching the  
DG-2 Magnifier or DR-3 Right-Angle Viewing Attachment to  
the D3X.  
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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.  
Filters  
To prevent moiré, use of a filter is not recommended when  
the subject is framed against a bright light, or when a bright  
light source is in the frame.  
Center-weighted metering is recommended with filters with  
exposure factors (filter factors) over 1× (Y44, Y48, Y52, O56,  
R60, X0, X1, C-PL, ND2S, ND4, ND4S, ND8, ND8S, ND400, A2,  
A12, B2, B8, B12).  
Nikon Speedlights SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400  
Nikon Wireless Remote Speedlight SB-R200 (Controlled remotely  
using the SB-900, SB-800 flash unit or SU-800 wireless  
Optional  
flash units Speedlight commander.)  
Wireless Speedlight Commander SU-800  
See page 187 for more information.  
Water Guard WG-AS1: The optional WG-AS1 is a water guard that  
Water  
guards  
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.  
EC-AD1 PC Card Adapter: The EC-AD1 PC card adapter allows  
Type I CompactFlash memory cards to be inserted in  
PCMCIA card slots.  
PC card  
adapters  
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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.  
Software  
Body cap  
Note: Use the latest versions of Nikon software. Most Nikon  
software offers an auto update feature when the computer is  
connected to the Internet.  
BF-1B and BF-1A Body Caps: The body cap keeps the mirror,  
viewfinder screen, and low-pass filter free of dust when a  
lens is not in place.  
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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 shutter-  
triggering device, allowing control via sound or electronic  
signals (length 1 m /3 ft. 3 in.).  
Remote  
terminal  
Remote Cord MC-30: Remote shutter release; can be used to  
reduce camera shake or keep the shutter open during a time  
accessories exposure (length 80 cm /2 ft. 7 in.).  
Remote Cord MC-36: Remote shutter release; can be used for  
interval timer photography or to reduce camera shake or  
keep the shutter open during a time exposure. Equipped  
with back-lit control panel, shutter-release lock for use in  
bulb photography, and timer that beeps at one-second  
intervals (length 85 cm /2 ft. 9 in.).  
Extension Cord MC-21: Can be connected to ML-3 or MC-series  
20, 22, 23, 25, 30, or 36. Only one MC-21 can be used at a  
time (length 3 m /9 ft. 10 in.).  
Connecting Cord MC-23: Connects two cameras for simultaneous  
operation (length 40 cm /1 ft. 4 in.).  
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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  
via PC cable supplied by manufacturer of GPS device,  
allowing latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal  
Remote  
terminal  
accessories Time (UTC, pg. 224), and heading to be recorded with  
photographs (length 35 cm /14 in.).  
GPS Unit GP-1 (pg. 221): Record latitude, longitude, altitude,  
and UTC time with pictures.  
Modulite Remote Control Set ML-3: Allows infrared remote control  
at ranges of up to 8 m (26 ft.).  
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Approved Memory Cards  
The following cards have been tested and approved for use in the  
D3X:  
SanDisk  
Lexar Media  
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  
8 GB  
4 GB  
2 GB  
2 GB  
1 GB  
512 MB  
4 GB  
8 GB  
4 GB  
2 GB  
Professional  
UDMA  
Extreme IV  
SDCFX4  
SDCFX3  
300 ×  
80 ×  
60 ×  
Extreme III  
Platinum II  
Ultra II  
SDCFH  
SDCFB  
133 × WA  
80 × Lt  
Professional  
1 GB  
2 GB  
512 MB  
Standard  
Microdrive  
DSCM-11000  
3K4-2  
3K4-4  
3K6  
1 GB  
2 GB  
4 GB  
6 GB  
Other cards have not been tested. For more details on the above  
cards, please contact the manufacturer.  
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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. Do not store your camera  
with naphtha or camphor moth balls or in locations that:  
are poorly ventilated or subject to humidities of over 60%  
are next to equipment that produces strong electromagnetic  
fields, such as televisions or radios  
are exposed to temperatures above 50 °C (122 °F) or below  
–10 °C (14 °F)  
Cleaning  
Use a blower to remove dust and lint, then wipe gently with a  
soft, dry cloth. After using the camera at the beach or seaside,  
wipe off sand or salt with a cloth lightly dampened in distilled  
water and dry thoroughly. Important: Dust or other foreign  
matter inside the camera may cause damage not covered under  
warranty.  
Camera  
body  
These glass elements are easily damaged. Remove dust and  
lint with a blower. If using an aerosol blower, keep the can  
Lens,  
mirror, and vertical to prevent the discharge of liquid. To remove  
viewfinder fingerprints and other stains, apply a small amount of lens  
cleaner to a soft cloth and clean with care.  
Remove dust and lint with a blower. When removing  
fingerprints and other stains, wipe the surface lightly with a  
soft cloth or chamois leather. Do not apply pressure, as this  
Monitor  
could result in damage or malfunction.  
Do not use alcohol, thinner, or other volatile chemicals.  
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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.  
Remove the existing screen, using the  
supplied tweezers and being careful to  
handle the screen by the tab to avoid  
scratches.  
4 Insert the replacement screen.  
Using the tweezers and handling the  
screen by the tab, set the replacement  
screen in the holder.  
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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.  
n
A Framing Grids  
The display in type E focusing screens may be slightly out of position  
depending on how the focusing screen is placed.  
397  
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Replacing the Clock Battery  
The camera clock is powered by a CR1616 lithium battery with a  
life of about four years. If the Bicon 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 Bicon 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. Replace the battery as described below.  
1 Remove the main battery.  
The clock battery chamber is located on the roof of the main  
battery chamber. Turn the camera off and remove the  
EN-EL4a battery.  
2 Open the clock battery chamber.  
Slide the clock battery chamber cover  
toward the front of the main battery  
chamber.  
3 Remove the clock battery.  
4 Insert the replacement battery.  
Insert a new CR1616 lithium battery so  
that the positive side (the side marked  
with “+” and the battery name) is visible.  
n
398  
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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 Bicon 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.  
D Inserting the Clock Battery  
n
Insert the clock battery in the correct orientation. Inserting the battery  
incorrectly could not only prevent the clock from functioning but could  
damage the camera.  
399  
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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.  
A reliable power source is required when inspecting or  
cleaning the low-pass filter. If the battery level is below J  
(60%), turn the camera off and insert a fully-charged EN-EL4a  
battery or connect an optional EH-6 AC adapter.  
2 Select [Lock mirror up for cleaning].  
Remove the lens and turn the camera on.  
Highlight [Lock mirror up for cleaning] in  
the setup menu (pg. 346) and press 2  
(note that this option is not available at  
battery levels of Jor below).  
3 Press J.  
The message shown at right will be  
displayed in the monitor and a row of  
dashes will appear in the top control  
panel and viewfinder. To restore  
normal operation without inspecting  
the low-pass filter, turn the camera off.  
n
400  
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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.  
Remove any dust and lint from the filter  
with a blower. Do not use a blower-  
brush, as the bristles could damage the  
filter. Dirt that can not be removed with  
a blower can only be removed by Nikon-  
authorized service personnel. Under no circumstances should  
you touch or wipe the filter.  
7 Turn the camera off.  
The mirror will return to the down position and the shutter  
curtain will close. Replace the lens or body cap.  
n
401  
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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.  
If the battery runs low while the mirror is raised, a beep will sound and  
the self-timer lamp will blink to warn that the shutter curtain will close  
and the mirror will be lowered after about two minutes. End cleaning or  
inspection immediately.  
D Foreign Matter on the Low-Pass Filter  
Nikon takes every possible precaution to prevent foreign matter from  
coming into contact with the low-pass filter during production and  
shipping. The D3X, however, is designed to be used with interchangeable  
lenses, and foreign matter may enter the camera when lenses are  
removed or exchanged. Once inside the camera, this foreign matter may  
adhere to the low-pass filter, where it may appear in photographs taken  
under certain conditions. To protect the camera when no lens is in place,  
be sure to replace the body cap provided with the camera, being careful  
to first remove all dust and other foreign matter that may be adhering to  
the body cap.  
Should foreign matter find its way onto the low-pass filter, clean the filter  
as described above, or have the filter cleaned by authorized Nikon service  
personnel. Photographs affected by the presence of foreign matter on the  
filter can be retouched using Capture NX 2 (available separately; pg. 391)  
or the clean image options available in some third-party imaging  
applications.  
D Servicing the Camera and Accessories  
The camera is a precision device and requires regular servicing. Nikon  
recommends that the camera be inspected by the original retailer or  
Nikon service representative once every one to two years, and that it be  
serviced once every three to five years (note that fees apply to these  
services). Frequent inspection and servicing are particularly  
recommended if the camera is used professionally. Any accessories  
regularly used with the camera, such as lenses or optional Speedlights,  
should be included when the camera is inspected or serviced.  
n
402  
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Caring for the Camera and  
Battery: Cautions  
Do not drop: The product may  
malfunction if subjected to strong  
shocks or vibration.  
Keep away from strong magnetic fields:  
Do not use or store this device in  
the vicinity of equipment that  
generates strong electromagnetic  
radiation or magnetic fields.  
Strong static charges or the  
magnetic fields produced by  
equipment such as radio  
transmitters could interfere with  
the monitor, damage data stored  
on the memory card, or affect the  
product’s internal circuitry.  
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. To prevent  
condensation, place the device in a  
carrying case or plastic bag before  
exposing it to sudden changes in  
temperature.  
Do not leave the lens pointed at the sun:  
Do not leave the lens pointed at  
the sun or other strong light  
source for an extended period.  
Intense light may cause the image  
sensor to deteriorate or produce a  
white blur effect in photographs.  
n
403  
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Cleaning: When cleaning the camera Do not touch the shutter curtain: The  
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  
shutter curtain is extremely thin  
and easily damaged. Under no  
circumstances should you exert  
pressure on the curtain, poke it  
with cleaning tools, or subject it to  
powerful air currents from a  
blower. These actions could  
scratch, deform, or tear the curtain.  
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 shutter curtain may appear to  
be unevenly colored, but this has  
no affect on pictures and does not  
indicate a malfunction.  
Storage: To prevent mold or mildew,  
store the camera in a dry, well-  
ventilated area. If you are using an  
AC adapter, unplug the adapter to  
prevent fire. If the product will not  
be used for an extended period,  
remove the battery to prevent  
leakage and store the camera in a  
plastic bag containing a desiccant.  
Do not, however, store the camera  
case in a plastic bag, as this may  
cause the material to deteriorate.  
Note that desiccant gradually loses  
its capacity to absorb moisture and  
should be replaced at regular  
intervals.  
The lens and mirror are easily  
damaged. Dust and lint should be  
gently removed with a blower.  
When using an aerosol blower,  
keep the can vertical to prevent  
discharge of liquid. To remove  
fingerprints and other stains from  
the lens, apply a small amount of  
lens cleaner to a soft cloth and  
wipe the lens carefully.  
See “The Low-Pass Filter” (pg. 400)  
for information on cleaning the  
low-pass filter.  
Lens contacts: Keep the lens contacts  
clean.  
To prevent mold or mildew, take  
the camera out of storage at least  
once a month. Turn the camera on  
and release the shutter a few times  
before putting it away.  
n
Store the battery in a cool, dry  
place. Replace the terminal cover  
before putting the battery away.  
404  
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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  
Notes on the monitor: The monitor  
may contain a few pixels that are  
always lit or that do not light. This  
is common to all TFT LCD monitors  
while images are being recorded or and does not indicate a  
deleted. Forcibly cutting power in malfunction. Images recorded  
these circumstances could result in with the product are unaffected.  
loss of data or in damage to  
Images in the monitor may be  
product memory or internal  
difficult to see in a bright light.  
circuitry. To prevent an accidental  
interruption of power, avoid  
carrying the product from one  
location to another while the AC  
adapter is connected.  
Do not apply pressure to the  
monitor, as this could cause  
damage or malfunction. Dust or  
lint on the monitor can be removed  
with a blower. Stains can be  
removed by wiping lightly with a  
soft cloth or chamois leather.  
Should the monitor break, care  
should be taken to avoid injury  
from broken glass and to prevent  
liquid crystal from the monitor  
touching the skin or entering the  
eyes and mouth.  
Dry the accessory shoe cover: If the  
camera is used in the rain, water  
may penetrate the supplied BS-2  
accessory shoe cover. Remove and  
dry the accessory shoe cover after  
using the camera in the rain.  
n
405  
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Batteries: Dirt on the battery  
terminals can prevent the camera  
from functioning and should be  
removed with a soft, dry cloth  
before use.  
Charge the battery before use.  
When taking photographs on  
important occasions, ready a spare  
EN-EL4a/EN-EL4 battery and keep  
it fully charged. Depending on  
your location, it may be difficult to  
purchase replacement batteries on  
short notice.  
Batteries may leak or explode if  
improperly handled. Observe the  
following precautions when  
handling batteries:  
On cold days, the capacity of  
batteries tends to decrease. Be  
sure the battery is fully charged  
before taking photographs outside  
in cold weather. Keep a spare  
battery in a warm place and  
exchange the two as necessary.  
Once warmed, a cold battery may  
recover some of its charge.  
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.  
Continuing to charge the battery  
after it is fully charged can impair  
battery performance.  
Do not expose the battery to flame  
or excessive heat.  
Used batteries are a valuable  
resource. Please recycle used  
batteries in accord with local  
regulations.  
After removing the battery from  
the camera, be sure to replace the  
terminal cover.  
n
406  
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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  
47, 389  
48  
Adjust viewfinder focus or use  
optional diopter adjustment lenses.  
Insert a fully-charged battery.  
Choose longer delays for Custom  
Setting c2 ([Auto meter-off delay]) 318, 319  
or c4 ([Monitor off delay]).  
Viewfinder is out of focus.  
Viewfinder is dark.  
Displays turn off without  
warning.  
Unusual characters  
appear in control panels. Controlled Cameras,below.  
See “A Note on Electronically-  
407  
Control panel or  
viewfinder displays are  
unresponsive and dim.  
The response times and brightness  
of these displays varies with  
temperature.  
A A Note on Electronically-Controlled Cameras  
In extremely rare instances, unusual characters may appear in the monitor  
or control panels and the camera may stop functioning. In most cases,  
this phenomenon is caused by a strong external static charge. Turn the  
camera off, remove and replace the battery, and turn the camera on again,  
or, if you are using an AC adapter (available separately), disconnect and  
reconnect the adapter and turn the camera on again. In the event of  
continued malfunction, contact your retailer or Nikon-authorized service  
representative. Note that disconnecting the power source as described  
above may result in loss of any data not recorded to the memory card at  
the time the problem occurred. Data already recorded to the card will not  
be affected.  
n
407  
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Shooting  
Problem  
Solution  
Page  
Camera takes time to turn  
on.  
Delete files or folders.  
Memory card is full or not  
inserted.  
42, 49  
CPU lens with aperture ring  
attached but aperture not locked  
at highest f-number. If B is  
displayed in the top control panel,  
select [Aperture ring] for Custom  
Setting f7 ([Customize command  
dials]) > [Aperture setting] to use  
lens aperture ring to adjust  
aperture.  
384  
Shutter-release disabled.  
Exposure mode S selected with  
Aselected for shutter speed.  
116  
Rotate focus-mode selector to S  
or C.  
Camera unable to focus using  
autofocus: use manual focus or  
focus lock.  
74  
80, 83  
Photos are out of focus.  
n
408  
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Problem  
Solution  
Page  
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.  
Full range of shutter  
speeds not available.  
326  
Focus does not lock when  
shutter-release button is  
pressed halfway.  
Image size can not be  
changed.  
Camera is in focus mode C: use AE-L/  
AF-L button to lock focus.  
81  
70  
[Image quality] set to [NEF (RAW)].  
78  
76  
Unlock focus selector lock.  
Auto-area AF selected for focus  
mode: choose another mode.  
The camera is in playback mode.  
The camera is in menu operation.  
Press shutter-release button  
halfway to turn monitor off or  
activate exposure meters.  
225  
277  
50  
Can not select focus point  
Camera is slow to record Turn long exposure noise reduction  
300  
93  
photos.  
off.  
Sound of mirror clicking down  
when shutter-release button was  
pressed halfway in hand-held  
mode was mistaken for sound of  
shutter.  
Unless [Release] is chosen for  
Custom Setting a2 ([AF-S priority  
selection]), shutter release is  
disabled if camera is unable to  
focus when focus mode S is  
selected in hand-held mode.  
Photos not recorded in  
live view mode.  
93, 306  
n
409  
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Problem  
Solution  
Page  
Choose lower ISO sensitivity or  
turn high ISO noise reduction on.  
Shutter speed is slower than 8 s:  
use long exposure noise  
104, 300  
Randomly-spaced bright  
pixels (“noise”) appear in  
photos.  
300  
reduction.  
Photos are blotched or  
smeared.  
Clean lens.  
Clean low-pass filter.  
400  
Adjust white balance to match  
light source.  
Adjust [Set Picture Control]  
settings.  
140  
Colors are unnatural.  
162  
Can not measure white  
balance.  
Subject is too dark or too bright.  
152  
Image can not be selected  
as source for preset white Image was not created with D3X.  
balance.  
155  
66  
NEF (RAW) or NEF+JPEG image  
quality option selected for image  
White balance bracketing  
unavailable.  
quality.  
Multiple exposure mode is in  
209  
effect.  
n
410  
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Problem  
Solution  
Page  
“A” (auto) is selected for  
Effects of Picture Control sharpening, contrast, or saturation.  
differ from image to  
image.  
For consistent results over a series  
of photographs, choose a setting  
other than “A” (auto).  
168  
Metering can not be  
changed.  
Exposure compensation  
can not be used.  
Autoexposure lock is in effect.  
127  
128  
Choose exposure mode e, f, or g.  
Reddish areas appear in Reddish areas and uneven textures  
photos.  
may appear in long time-  
exposures. Turn long exposure  
noise reduction on when shooting  
at shutter speeds of “A.  
300  
Textures are uneven.  
n
411  
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Playback  
Problem  
Solution  
Page  
Flashing areas appear  
in images.  
Shooting data appear Press 1or 3to choose photo  
229, 282  
on images.  
information displayed.  
A graph appears  
during playback.  
NEF (RAW) image is Photo was taken at image quality of NEF  
67  
not played back.  
Some photos are not  
displayed during  
playback.  
+ JPEG.  
Select [All] for [Playback folder].  
281  
Tall” (portrait)  
orientation photos  
are displayed in  
“wide” (landscape)  
orientation.  
Can not delete photo. Photo is protected: remove protection.  
Message is displayed  
Select [On] for [Rotate tall].  
Photo was taken with [Off] selected  
for [Auto image rotation].  
Camera was pointed up or down  
when photo was taken.  
287  
351  
351  
244  
stating that no  
images are available  
Select [All] for [Playback folder].  
281  
for playback.  
Can not change print  
Memory card is full: delete photos.  
order.  
49  
Photo is in NEF (RAW) format. Transfer  
Can not select photo  
to computer and print using supplied  
for printing.  
262  
software or Capture NX 2  
.
Set [USB] to [MTP/PTP].  
352  
262  
NEF (RAW) and TIFF photos can not be  
printed by direct USB connection. Use  
DPOF print service (TIFF images only)  
or transfer to computer and print using  
supplied software or Capture NX 2.  
Can not print photos.  
Photo is not  
displayed on TV.  
Choose correct video mode.  
348  
n
412  
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Problem  
Photo is not  
displayed on high-  
definition video  
device.  
Solution  
Page  
Confirm that HDMI cable (available  
separately) is connected.  
276  
Can not copy photos  
to computer.  
Photos not displayed  
in Capture NX 2.  
Can not use Camera  
Control Pro 2.  
Choose correct [USB] option.  
Update software to latest version.  
Set [USB] to [MTP/PTP].  
257  
391  
257  
Third-party software does not display  
effects of Picture Controls, active  
D-Lighting, or vignette control. Use  
ViewNX (supplied) or Capture NX 2  
(available separately).  
Computer displays  
NEF (RAW) images  
differently from  
camera.  
Miscellaneous  
Problem  
Solution  
Page  
Date of recording is  
not correct.  
Set camera clock.  
40  
Some options are not available at  
certain combinations of settings. Note  
that [Battery info] option is not available  
when camera is powered by optional  
EH-6 AC adapter.  
Menu item can not be  
selected.  
355  
n
413  
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Error Messages  
This section lists the indicators and error messages that appear in  
the viewfinder, top control panel, and monitor.  
Indicator  
Control View-  
panel finder  
Problem  
Lens aperture ring is  
not set to minimum  
aperture.  
Solution  
Set ring to minimum  
aperture (largest  
f-number).  
Page  
B
38  
(blinks)  
Ready a fully-charged  
spare battery.  
H
H
d
d
Low battery.  
48  
Battery exhausted.  
Replace battery.  
32, 34  
(blinks) (blinks)  
Contact Nikon-  
authorized service  
representative.  
G
d
Battery can not be  
40  
(blinks) (blinks) used.  
B
Camera clock is not set. Set camera clock.  
(blinks)  
No lens attached, or  
non-CPU lens attached  
without specifying  
maximum aperture.  
Aperture shown in  
stops from maximum  
aperture.  
Aperture value will be  
displayed if maximum  
aperture is specified.  
F
218  
83  
2 4 Camera unable to focus  
(blinks) using autofocus.  
Focus manually.  
n
414  
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Indicator  
Control View-  
panel finder  
Problem  
Solution  
Page  
Use a lower ISO  
sensitivity.  
UseoptionalNDfilter.  
In exposure mode:  
f Increase shutter  
speed  
g Choose a smaller  
aperture (larger  
f-number)  
104  
390  
116  
118  
Subject too bright;  
photo will be  
q
overexposed.  
n
415  
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Indicator  
Control View-  
panel finder  
Problem  
Solution  
Page  
Use a higher ISO  
sensitivity.  
Use optional flash. In  
exposure mode:  
f Lower shutter  
speed  
g Choose a larger  
aperture (smaller  
f-number)  
104  
187  
116  
118  
Subject too dark; photo  
will be underexposed.  
r
Change shutter speed  
or select manual  
exposure mode.  
A
(blinks)  
Aselected in  
exposure mode f.  
116, 120  
191  
Optional flash unit that  
does not support i-TTL  
Change flash mode  
setting on optional  
flash unit.  
c
(blinks) flash control attached  
(blinks)  
and set to TTL.  
Check photo in  
monitor; if  
underexposed, adjust  
settings and try again.  
If indicator blinks for 3s  
c
after flash fires, photo  
(blinks)  
191  
may be underexposed.  
n
416  
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Indicator  
Control View-  
panel finder  
Problem  
Flash unit that does not  
support red-eye  
reduction attached and  
flash sync mode set to  
red-eye reduction.  
Solution  
Page  
189  
Change flash sync  
mode or use flash unit  
that supports red-eye  
reduction.  
Y
(blinks)  
Memory insufficient to Reduce quality or  
66, 70  
record further photos  
at current settings, or  
camera has run out of  
file or folder numbers.  
size.  
A
g
Delete photographs.  
Insert new memory  
card.  
281  
42  
(blinks) (blinks)  
Release shutter. If error  
persists or appears  
Camera malfunction. frequently, consult  
Nikon-authorized  
O
(blinks)  
service representative.  
n
417  
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Indicator  
Control  
panel  
Monitor  
Problem  
Solution  
Page  
Camera cannot  
S detect memory  
card.  
Turn camera off and  
confirm that card is  
correctly inserted.  
No memory  
card.  
42  
Error accessing  
memory card.  
Use Nikon-  
approved card.  
Check that contacts  
are clean. If card is  
damaged, contact  
retailer or Nikon  
representative.  
394  
This memory  
card cannot  
be used.  
Card may be  
damaged.  
Insertanother  
card.  
(blinks)  
Unable to create Delete files or insert 42, 281  
new folder. new memory card.  
This card is  
not  
formatted.  
Format the  
card.  
Memory card has Format memory card  
not been formatted or insert new  
for use in camera. memory card.  
C
42, 45  
(blinks)  
n
418  
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Indicator  
Control  
Monitor  
panel  
Problem  
Solution  
Select folder  
containing images  
Page  
No images on  
memory card or in from [Playback folder]  
folder(s) selected menu or insert  
Folder  
contains no  
images.  
42, 281  
for playback.  
different memory  
card.  
No images can be  
played back until  
another folder has  
been selected or  
[Hide image] used to  
allow at least one  
image to be  
All photos in  
current folder are  
hidden.  
All images are  
hidden.  
281  
displayed.  
File has been  
created or modified  
File does not  
contain image  
data.  
using a computer File can not be played  
or different make of back on camera.  
camera, or file is  
corrupt.  
Memory card does  
Images created with  
not contain images  
other devices can not  
that can be  
Cannot select  
this file  
364  
be retouched.  
retouched.  
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419  
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Indicator  
Control  
Monitor  
panel  
Problem  
Solution  
Check printer. To  
resume, select  
[Continue] (if  
available).  
Page  
Check printer.  
Printer error.  
263 *  
Insert paper of  
Paper in printer is  
not of selected size.  
Check paper.  
Paper jam.  
correct size and select 263 *  
[Continue].  
Paper is jammed in Clear jam and select  
263 *  
printer.  
[Continue].  
Insert paper of  
Printer is out of  
paper.  
Out of paper.  
selected size and  
select [Continue].  
Check ink. To resume,  
select [Continue].  
Replace ink and  
select [Continue].  
263 *  
Check ink  
supply.  
Ink error.  
263 *  
263 *  
Out of ink.  
Printer is out of ink.  
* See printer manual for more information.  
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Appendix  
The Appendix covers the following topics:  
Defaults ................................................................................................ pg. 422  
Memory Card Capacity ................................................................. pg. 427  
Exposure Program .......................................................................... pg. 430  
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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)  
[Image size] (pg. 70)  
Default  
100  
JPEG normal  
L
Shooting  
menu 2  
[White balance] (pg. 140)  
Fine tuning (pg. 143)  
Auto  
Off  
[Choose color temp.] (pg. 147)  
Focus point (pg. 78)  
5000 K  
Center  
Exposure mode (pg. 112)  
Flexible program (pg. 115)  
Shutter speed and aperture lock (pg. 123)  
AE lock hold (pg. 125)  
Programmed auto  
Off  
Off  
Off  
Other  
settings  
Exposure compensation (pg. 128)  
Bracketing (pg. 130)  
Off  
Off  
Flash mode (pg. 194)  
Front-curtain sync  
FV lock (pg. 198)  
Multiple exposure (pg. 206)  
Off  
Off  
1 If the current Picture Control has been modified, existing settings for  
the Picture Control will also be restored.  
2 Only the settings in the bank currently selected using the [Shooting  
menu bank] option will be reset (pg. 291). Settings in all other banks  
are unaffected.  
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Defaults Restored with [Reset Shooting Menu] (pg. 293) 1  
Option  
[File naming] (pg. 296)  
Default  
DSC  
[Slot 2] (pg. 72)  
[Image quality] (pg. 66)  
[Image size] (pg. 70)  
Overflow  
JPEG normal  
Large  
[Image area] (pg. 60)  
[Auto DX crop] (pg. 60)  
On  
[Choose image area] (pg. 61)  
[JPEG compression] (pg. 68)  
[NEF (RAW) recording] (pg. 69)  
[Type] (pg. 69)  
FX format (36 × 24)  
Size priority  
Lossless compressed  
[NEF (RAW) bit depth] (pg. 69)  
[White balance] (pg. 140)  
Fine tuning (pg. 143)  
12-bit  
Auto  
Off  
[Choose color temp.] (pg. 147)  
[Set Picture Control] (pg. 162)  
[Color space] (pg. 183)  
5000K  
Standard  
sRGB  
[Active D-Lighting] (pg. 181)  
[Vignette control] (pg. 299)  
[Long exp. NR] (pg. 300)  
[High ISO NR] (pg. 300)  
Off  
Normal  
Off  
Normal  
[ISO sensitivity settings] (pg. 104)  
[ISO sensitivity] (pg. 104)  
[ISO sensitivity auto control] (pg. 106)  
[Live view] (pg. 90)  
100  
Off  
[Live view mode] (pg. 91)  
[Release mode] (pg. 91)  
[Multiple exposure] (pg. 206)  
[Interval timer shooting] (pg. 211)  
Hand-held  
Single frame  
Reset 2  
Reset 3  
1 With the exception of [Multiple exposure] and [Interval timer  
shooting], only settings in the current shooting menu bank will be  
reset.  
2 Applies to all banks. [Reset shooting menu] can not be selected while  
shooting is in progress.  
n
3 Applies to all banks. Shooting ends when reset is performed.  
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Defaults Restored with [Reset Custom Settings] (pg. 304) *  
Option  
Default  
Release  
Focus  
9 points  
Normal  
a1 [AF-C priority selection] (pg. 305)  
a2 [AF-S priority selection] (pg. 306)  
a3 [Dynamic AF area] (pg. 307)  
a4 [Focus tracking with lock-on] (pg. 309)  
a5 [AF activation] (pg. 309)  
Shutter/AF-ON  
[Focus point illumination] (pg. 310)  
[Manual focus mode]  
[Continuous mode]  
On  
On  
a6  
[Focus point brightness]  
a7 [Focus point wrap-around] (pg. 311)  
a8 [AF point selection] (pg. 311)  
Normal  
No wrap  
51 points  
AF-ON  
AF-ON  
1/3 step  
1/3 step  
1/3 step  
Off  
a9 [AF-ON button] (pg. 312)  
a10 [Vertical AF-ON button] (pg. 313)  
b1 [ISO sensitivity step value] (pg. 314)  
b2 [EV steps for exposure cntrl.] (pg. 314)  
b3 [EV steps for exposure comp.] (pg. 314)  
b4 [Easy exposure compensation] (pg. 315)  
b5 [Center-weighted area] (pg. 316)  
[Fine tune optimal exposure] (pg. 316)  
ø 12 mm  
[Matrix metering]  
[Center-weighted]  
0
0
b6  
[Spot metering]  
0
c1 [Shutter-release button AE-L] (pg. 318)  
c2 [Auto meter-off delay] (pg. 318)  
c3 [Self-timer delay] (pg. 319)  
c4 [Monitor off delay] (pg. 319)  
Off  
6 s  
10 s  
20 s  
* Only the settings in the bank currently selected using the [Custom  
setting bank] option will be reset (pg. 304). Settings in all other banks  
are unaffected.  
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Option  
d1 [Beep] (pg. 320)  
Default  
Off  
[Shooting speed] (pg. 321)  
[Continuous high-speed]  
[Continuous low-speed]  
d2  
5 fps  
3 fps  
130  
On  
d3 [Max. continuous release] (pg. 321)  
d4 [File number sequence] (pg. 322)  
[Control panel/viewfinder] (pg. 323)  
d5  
[Rear control panel]  
[Viewfinder display]  
ISO sensitivity  
Frame count  
Auto  
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)  
Off  
Off  
1/250 s  
1/60 s  
On  
e4 [Auto bracketing set] (pg. 328)  
e5 [Auto bracketing (Mode M)] (pg. 329)  
e6 [Bracketing order] (pg. 330)  
AE & flash  
Flash/speed  
MTR > under > over  
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Option  
[Multi selector center button] (pg. 331)  
[Shooting mode]  
Default  
Select center focus point  
Thumbnail on/off  
Select center focus point  
Do nothing  
f1  
[Playback mode]  
[Live view]  
f2 [Multi selector] (pg. 332)  
f3 [Photo info/playback] (pg. 332)  
[Assign FUNC. button] (pg. 333)  
Info /Playback  
[FUNC. button press]  
None  
Choose image area  
(FX/DX/5:4)  
f4  
[FUNC. button+dials]  
[Assign preview button] (pg. 339)  
f5  
f6  
[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. 341)  
[Change main/sub] (pg. 341)  
[Aperture setting] (pg. 342)  
[Menus and playback] (pg. 342)  
Preview  
None  
AE/AF lock  
None  
No  
f7  
Off  
Sub-command dial  
Off  
f8 [Release button to use dial] (pg. 343)  
f9 [No memory card?] (pg. 344)  
No  
Enable release  
f10 [Reverse indicators] (pg. 345)  
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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.  
FX format (36 × 24) Image Area  
Image quality  
NEF (RAW), Lossless  
compressed, 12-bit  
NEF (RAW), Lossless  
compressed, 14-bit  
NEF (RAW),  
Image size  
File size 1 No. of images 1 Buffer capacity 2  
27.6 MB  
35.6 MB  
23.0 MB  
29.4 MB  
100  
77  
24  
28  
26  
34  
137  
114  
Compressed, 12-bit  
NEF (RAW),  
Compressed, 14-bit  
NEF (RAW),  
Uncompressed,  
12-bit  
NEF (RAW),  
Uncompressed,  
14-bit  
38.9 MB  
50.6 MB  
100  
77  
22  
21  
L
M
S
L
M
S
L
M
S
L
M
S
73.5 MB  
41.5 MB  
18.6 MB  
14.1 MB  
7.9 MB  
3.6 MB  
7.1 MB  
4.0 MB  
1.8 MB  
3.6 MB  
2.1 MB  
0.9 MB  
53  
94  
210  
277  
491  
1000  
552  
22  
23  
30  
44  
78  
80  
61  
80  
83  
69  
82  
83  
TIFF (RGB)  
JPEG fine 3  
JPEG normal 3  
JPEG basic 3  
976  
2100  
1000  
1800  
4100  
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DX Format (24 × 16) Image Area  
Image quality  
NEF (RAW), Lossless  
compressed, 12-bit  
NEF (RAW), Lossless  
compressed, 14-bit  
NEF (RAW),  
Image size  
File size 1 No. of images 1 Buffer capacity 2  
12.1 MB  
15.5 MB  
10.1 MB  
12.9 MB  
229  
176  
313  
260  
32  
52  
38  
83  
Compressed, 12-bit  
NEF (RAW),  
Compressed, 14-bit  
NEF (RAW),  
Uncompressed,  
12-bit  
NEF (RAW),  
Uncompressed,  
14-bit  
17.0 MB  
22.1 MB  
229  
176  
29  
32  
L
M
S
L
M
S
L
M
S
L
M
S
31.7 MB  
17.9 MB  
8.1 MB  
6.1 MB  
3.4 MB  
1.6 MB  
3.1 MB  
1.8 MB  
0.8 MB  
1.6 MB  
0.9 MB  
0.4 MB  
123  
218  
484  
24  
29  
40  
TIFF (RGB)  
JPEG fine 3  
644  
76  
1100  
2400  
1200  
2200  
4800  
2400  
4100  
8900  
130  
130  
130  
130  
130  
130  
130  
130  
JPEG normal 3  
JPEG basic 3  
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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]. Selecting [Optimal  
quality] increases the file size of JPEG images; number of images and buffer  
capacity drop accordingly.  
n
A d3—Max. Continuous Release (pg. 321)  
The maximum number of photographs that can be taken in a single burst  
can be set to any amount between 1 and 130.  
429  
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Exposure Program  
The exposure program for programmed auto is shown in the  
following graph:  
ISO 100; lens with maximum aperture of f/1.4 and minimum  
aperture of f/16 (e.g., AF 50mm f/1.4 D)  
f/1  
f/1.4  
f/2  
f/2.8  
f/4  
f/5.6  
f/8  
f/11  
f/16  
f/22  
f/32  
8"  
30" 15"  
4" 2" 1"  
2
4
8
15 30 60 125 250 500 1000 2000 4000 8000  
Shutter speed  
The maximum and minimum values for EV vary with ISO  
sensitivity; the above graph assumes an ISO sensitivity of ISO 100  
equivalent. When matrix metering is used, values over 161/3 EV  
are reduced to 161/3 EV.  
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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  
Total pixels  
35.9 × 24.0 mm CMOS sensor (Nikon FX format)  
25.72 million  
Dust-reduction System Image Dust Off reference data (optional Capture NX 2  
software required)  
Storage  
Image size (pixels)  
FX format (36 × 24) image area  
6,048 × 4,032 (L) 4,544 × 3,024 (M) 3,024 × 2,016 (S)  
DX format (24 × 16) image area  
3,968 × 2,640 (L) 2,976 × 1,976 (M) 1,984 × 1,320 (S)  
5 : 4 (30 × 24) image area  
5,056 × 4,032 (L) 3,792 × 3,024 (M) 2,528 × 2,016 (S)  
File format  
NEF (RAW): 12 or 14 bit, lossless compressed,  
compressed, or uncompressed  
TIFF (RGB)  
JPEG: JPEG-Baseline compliant with fine (approx. 1 : 4),  
normal (approx. 1 : 8), or basic (approx. 1 : 16)  
compression ([Size priority]); [Optimal quality]  
compression available  
NEF (RAW)+JPEG: Single photograph recorded in both  
NEF (RAW) and JPEG formats  
Picture Control System Can be selected from Standard, Neutral, Vivid,  
Monochrome; storage for up to nine custom Picture  
Controls  
Media  
Type I and II CompactFlash memory cards (UDMA  
compliant); microdrives  
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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. 97% horizontal and 97% vertical  
5 : 4: Approx. 97% horizontal and 100% vertical  
Magnification  
Eyepoint  
Approx. 0.7 × (50-mm f/1.4 lens at infinity, –1.0 m–1  
)
18 mm (–1.0 m–1  
–3–+1 m–1  
)
Diopter adjustment  
Focusing screen  
Reflex mirror  
Ships with type B BriteView Clear Matte VI screen  
Quick return  
Depth-of-field preview When depth of field preview button is pressed, lens  
aperture is stopped down to value selected by user (g  
and hmodes) or by camera (eand fmodes)  
Lens aperture  
Instant return, electronically controlled  
Lens  
Compatible lenses  
DX AF Nikkor: All functions supported  
Type G or D AF Nikkor: All functions supported (PC Micro-  
Nikkor does not support some functions). IX Nikkor  
lenses not supported.  
Other AF Nikkor: All functions supported except 3D  
color matrix metering II. Lenses for F3AF not  
supported.  
AI-P Nikkor: All functions supported except 3D color  
matrix metering II  
Non-CPU: Can be used in exposure modes gand h;  
electronic rangefinder can be used if maximum  
aperture is f/5.6 or faster; color matrix metering and  
aperture value display supported if user provides  
lens data (AI lenses only)  
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Shutter  
Type  
Electronically-controlled vertical-travel focal-plane  
shutter  
Speed  
1/8000 – 30 s in steps of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV, bulb, X250  
Flash sync speed  
X=1/250 s; synchronizes with shutter at 1/250 s or slower  
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  
Self-timer  
DX format (24 × 16): Up to 5 fps (CL) or 5–7 fps (CH)  
Other image areas: Up to 5 fps  
Can be selected from 2, 5, 10, and 20 s duration  
Exposure  
Metering  
TTL exposure metering using 1,005-segment RGB  
sensor  
Metering method  
Matrix: 3D color matrix metering II (type G and D  
lenses); color matrix metering II (other CPU lenses);  
color matrix metering available with non-CPU lenses  
if user provides lens data  
Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given to12-mm circle  
in center of frame. Diameter of circle can be changed  
to 8, 15, or 20 mm, or weighting can be based on  
average of entire frame (non-CPU lenses use 12-mm  
circle or average of entire frame)  
Spot: Meters 4-mm circle (about 1.5% of frame)  
centered on selected focus point (on center focus  
point when non-CPU lens is used)  
Range (ISO 100, f/1.4  
lens, 20 °C/68 °F)  
Matrix or center-weighted metering: 0–20 EV  
Spot metering: 2–20 EV  
Exposure meter coupling Combined CPU and AI  
Exposure mode Programmed auto with flexible program (e); shutter-  
priority auto (f); aperture priority auto (g); manual (h)  
Exposure compensation –5 – +5 EV in increments of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV  
Exposure bracketing  
Flash bracketing  
2–9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV  
2–9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV  
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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.  
Active D-Lighting  
Can be selected from [Auto], [Extra high], [High],  
[Normal], [Low], or [Off]  
Focus  
Autofocus  
Nikon Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus sensor module  
with TTL phase detection, fine-tuning, 51 focus points  
(including 15 cross-type sensors)  
Detection range  
Lens servo  
–1 – +19 EV (ISO 100, 20 °C/68 °F)  
Autofocus: Single-servo AF (S); continuous-servo AF (C);  
predictive focus tracking automatically activated  
according to subject status  
Manual (M): Electronic range finding supported  
Focus point  
AF-area mode  
Focus lock  
Can be selected from 51 or 11 focus points  
Single-point AF, dynamic-area AF, auto-area AF  
Focus can be locked by pressing shutter-release button  
halfway (single-servo AF) or by pressing AE-L/AF-L  
button  
Flash  
Flash control  
TTL: i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL flash  
for digital SLR using combined 1,005-segment RGB  
sensor are available with SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or  
SB-400  
Auto aperture: Available with SB-900 or SB-800 and CPU  
lens  
Non-TTL auto: Supported flash units include SB-900,  
SB-800, SB-28, SB-27, and SB-22s  
n
Distance-priority manual: Available with SB-900 and SB-800  
Flash mode  
Front curtain sync, slow sync, rear-curtain sync, red-eye  
reduction, red-eye reduction with slow sync  
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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-compatible flash units except SB-400; Flash Color  
Information Communication and FV lock supported  
with all CLS-compatible flash units  
Sync terminal  
ISO 519 sync terminal with locking thread  
White balance  
White balance  
Auto (TTL white-balance with main image sensor and  
1,005 segment RGB sensor); 7 manual modes with fine-  
tuning; color temperature setting  
Live view  
Modes  
Hand-held, tripod  
Autofocus  
Hand-held: Phase-detection AF with 51 focus points  
(including 15 cross-type sensors)  
Tripod: Contrast-detect AF anywhere in frame  
Monitor  
Monitor  
3-in., 920,000-dot (VGA), low-temperature polysilicon  
TFT LCD with 170 ° viewing angle, 100% frame  
coverage, and brightness adjustment  
Playback  
Playback  
Full-frame and thumbnail (four or nine images)  
playback with playback zoom, slide show, histogram  
display, highlight display, auto image rotation, image  
comment (up to 36 characters), and voice memo input  
and playback  
Interface  
USB  
n
Hi-Speed USB  
Video output  
Can be selected from NTSC and PAL  
435  
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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 3.01 (requires optional MC-35 GPS  
adapter cord and cable with D-sub 9-pin connector)  
Supported languages  
Supported languages  
Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Dutch, English,  
Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean,  
Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish  
Power source  
Battery  
One rechargeable Li-ion EN-EL4a battery  
EH-6 AC adapter (available separately)  
AC adapter  
Tripod socket  
Tripod socket  
1/4 in. (ISO 1222)  
Dimensions/weight  
Dimensions (W × H × D) Approx. 159.5 × 157 × 87.5 mm (6.3 × 6.2 × 3.4 in.)  
Weight  
Approx. 1,220 g (2 lb 11 oz.) without battery, memory  
card, body cap, or accessory shoe cover  
Operating environment  
Temperature  
0–40 °C (32–104 °F)  
Humidity  
Less than 85% (no condensation)  
Unless otherwise stated, all figures are for a camera with a fully-charged  
battery operating at an ambient temperature of 20 °C (68 °F).  
Nikon reserves the right to change the specifications of the hardware and  
software described in this manual at any time and without prior notice.  
Nikon will not be held liable for damages that may result from any mistakes  
that this manual may contain.  
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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  
Chamber  
lamps (green)  
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. The time needed to  
calibrate the battery is shown by the  
charge and calibration lamps:  
Charge lamps  
(green)  
Calibration  
lamps (yellow)  
Calibration  
buttons  
Charge lamps  
4 h  
K (glows)  
K (glows)  
K (off)  
Approximate time needed Calibration  
to recalibrate battery  
Over 6 hours  
4 – 6 hours  
lamp  
2 h  
6 h  
K (glows)  
K (glows)  
K (glows)  
K (glows)  
K (glows)  
K (glows)  
K (glows)  
K (off)  
K (glows)  
K (off)  
K (off)  
K (off)  
2 – 4 hours  
Under 2 hours  
K (off)  
When calibration is complete, the calibration and charge lamps  
will turn off and charging will begin immediately.  
Although calibration is recommended for accurate measurement  
of battery charge state, calibration need not be performed when  
the calibration lamp blinks. Once begun, calibration can be  
interrupted as desired.  
If the calibration button is not pressed while the calibration lamp  
is blinking, normal charging will begin after about ten seconds.  
To interrupt calibration, press the calibration button again.  
Calibration will end and charging will begin.  
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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.  
A Charging and Calibrating Two Batteries  
The MH-22 charges only one battery at a time. If batteries are inserted in  
both chambers, they will be charged in the order inserted. If the  
calibration button for the first battery is pressed, the second battery can  
not be calibrated or charged until calibration and charging of the first  
battery are complete.  
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MH-22 quick charger  
Rated input  
AC 100–240 V (50/60 Hz)  
Rated output  
DC 12.6 V/1,200 mA  
Supported batteries  
Charging time per  
battery  
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  
Weight  
Approx. 1800 mm (5 ft. 11 in.)  
Approx. 260 g (9.1 oz.), excluding power cable  
EN-EL4a rechargeable Li-ion battery  
Type  
Rated capacity  
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery  
11.1 V/2,500 mAh  
Dimensions (W × H × D) Approx. 56.5 × 27 × 82.5 mm (2.2 × 1.1 × 3.2 in.)  
Weight Approx. 180 g (6.3 oz.), excluding terminal cover  
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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 2.21, a standard in which  
information stored with photographs is used for optimal color  
reproduction when the images are output on Exif-compliant printers.  
PictBridge: A standard developed through cooperation with the digital  
camera and printer industries, allowing photographs to be output  
directly to a printer without first transferring them to a computer.  
HDMI: High-Definition Multimedia Interface is a standard for multimedia  
interfaces used in consumer electronics and AV devices capable of  
transmitting audiovisual data and control signals to HDMI-compliant  
devices via a single cable connection (the camera uses a type A  
connector).  
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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.  
Nikon standard: Approximately 5,300 shots. Measured at 20 °C/68 °F with an  
AF-S VR 70–200mm f/2.8 ED lens under the following test conditions: image  
quality set to JPEG normal, image size set to L (large), shutter speed 1/250 s,  
shutter-release button pressed halfway for three seconds and focus cycled  
from infinity to minimum range three times; six shots are then taken in  
succession and monitor turned on for five seconds and then turned off; cycle  
repeated once exposure meters have turned off.  
The following can reduce battery life:  
Using the monitor  
Keeping the shutter-release button pressed halfway  
Repeated autofocus operations  
Taking NEF (RAW) or TIFF (RGB) photographs  
Slow shutter speeds  
Using the optional WT-4 wireless transmitter  
Using the optional GP-1 GPS unit  
Using VR (vibration reduction) mode with VR lenses  
To ensure that you get the most from rechargeable Nikon EN-EL4a  
batteries:  
Keep the battery contacts clean. Soiled contacts can reduce battery  
performance.  
Use batteries immediately after charging. Batteries will lose their charge  
if left unused.  
Check the condition of the battery regularly using the [Battery info]  
option in the setup menu (pg. 355). If [j] is displayed for  
[Calibration], calibrate the battery using the MH-22 quick charger.  
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Index  
Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).  
Symbols  
AF-area mode, 76  
K (Single-point AF), 76, 77  
I (Dynamic-area AF), 76, 77  
H (Auto-area AF), 76, 77  
S, 86  
auto-area AF, 76, 77  
dynamic-area AF, 76, 77, 307  
single-point AF, 76, 77  
[AF-C priority selection], 305  
[AF-ON button], 312  
CL, 86, 88, 321  
CH, 86, 88, 321  
a, 90  
E (Self-timer), 100  
MUP, 102  
a(Matrix), 110, 317  
Z(Center-weighted), 110, 316, 317  
b(Spot), 110, 317  
e(Programmed auto), 114  
f(Shutter-priority auto), 116  
g(Aperture-priority auto), 118  
h(Manual), 120  
B button, 75, 94, 312  
B button for vertical shooting, 75,  
313  
[AF-S priority selection], 306  
[After delete], 287  
A-M switch, 37  
Amber, 144, 370  
Aperture, 38, 112, 118, 124  
lock, 124  
maximum, 84, 218  
minimum, 112, 430  
Q (Help), 31  
t(Memory buffer), 55, 89, 427  
L (Preset manual), 141, 148  
Aperture-priority auto, 118  
[Assign AE-L/AF-L button], 340  
[Assign FUNC. button], 333  
[Assign preview button], 339  
Audio, 254, 288, 289, 352  
[Audio output], 254, 352  
Auto bracketing, 130, 328, 329  
[Auto bracketing (Mode M)], 329  
[Auto bracketing set], 328  
[AE & flash], 131, 328  
Numerics  
1,005-segment RGB sensor, 140, 193  
3D color matrix metering II, 110, 111  
3D-tracking, 308  
A
A/V, 4, 274  
cable, i, 274  
[AE only], 131, 328  
[Flash only], 131, 328  
AC adapter, 387  
Accessories, 387  
[Active D-Lighting], 181  
[Active folder], 293  
AE-L, 81, 125, 340  
AF, 74, 305  
[AF activation], 309  
AF assist, 192  
[AF fine tune], 361  
[AF point selection], 311  
AF-area brackets, 12  
[WB bracketing], 135, 328  
Auto FP high-speed sync, 186, 194, 326  
[Auto image rotation], 351  
Auto meter off, 318  
[Auto meter-off delay], 318  
Auto-area AF, 76, 77  
Autofocus, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 305–313  
B
Backlight, 10, 325  
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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  
[Customize command dials], 341  
D
Date and time, 40, 349  
Daylight saving time, 40, 349  
DCF version 2.0, 440  
Default settings, 204, 422  
restoring, 204  
[Delete], 281  
[All], 281  
[Selected], 281  
Delete, 58, 245, 281  
all images, 281  
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  
current image, 245  
selected images, 281  
Digital Print Order Format, 262, 440  
Diopter, 3, 47, 389  
adjustment control, 47  
adjustment lens, 389  
[Display mode], 282  
[D-Lighting], 366  
DPOF, 262  
[Dust off ref photo], 353  
[Dynamic AF area], 307  
[51 points (3D-tracking)], 308  
Dynamic-area AF, 76, 77, 307  
[Adobe RGB], 183  
[sRGB], 183  
E
[Easy exposure compensation], 315  
Electronic analog exposure display,  
120, 122, 128  
Color space, 183, 240  
Color temperature, 140, 142, 147  
CompactFlash, 42  
Ethernet, 261, 387  
Computer, 256  
[EV steps for exposure cntrl.], 314  
[EV steps for exposure comp.], 314  
Exif version 2.21, 440  
Exposure, 109, 112, 125, 128, 130  
bracketing, 130  
lock, 125  
meters, 50, 318  
mode, 112  
aperture-priority auto, 118  
manual, 120  
Control panel, 8–11  
[Control panel/viewfinder], 323  
[Copy image(s)], 283  
Copying images, 283  
Copyright, 237, 357  
[Copyright information], 357  
CPU contacts, 384  
CPU lens, 38, 384  
Creative Lighting System, 186  
Crop, 267, 368  
[Custom setting bank], 304  
Custom Settings, 302  
Custom Settings Menu, 302  
programmed auto, 114  
shutter-priority auto, 116  
Exposure bracketing, 130  
443  
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Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).  
Exposure compensation, 128  
[Exposure delay mode], 325  
Exposure preview, 96, 99  
continuous-servo AF, 74, 305  
manual, 74, 83, 92  
single-servo AF, 74, 306  
point, 51, 78, 311  
contrast-detect, 90, 95, 97  
tracking, 75, 77, 309  
3D, 76, 77, 308  
F
File information, 230  
[File naming], 296  
[File number sequence], 322  
[Filter effects], 370  
[Skylight], 370  
predictive, 75  
[Focus point illumination], 310  
[Focus point wrap-around], 311  
[Focus tracking with lock-on], 309  
Focusing screen, 388, 396  
type B clear-matte VI, 388  
type E clear-matte VI, 388  
Format, 45, 347  
[Format memory card], 347  
Front-curtain sync, 194  
FV lock, 198, 333  
[Warm filter], 370  
[Fine tune optimal exposure], 316  
[Firmware version], 362  
Flash, 130, 185, 194, 327, 328  
bracketing, 130, 328  
control, 193  
i-TTL balanced-fill flash for digital  
SLR, 193  
standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR,  
193  
G
mode, 194  
[GPS], 221  
modeling, 327  
monitor pre-flash, 186  
range, 197  
ready indicator, 191, 199  
sync speed, 326  
GPS, 221, 229, 238  
connecting, 222  
data, 229, 238  
unit, 221, 393  
GPS data, 238  
sync terminal, 201  
[Flash shutter speed], 327  
[Flash sync speed], 326  
flexible, 115  
Fn button, 64, 198, 333  
f-number, 38, 112  
Focal length, 218  
Focal plane mark, 84  
Focus, 74  
autofocus, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82  
contrast-detect, 90, 95, 97  
phase-detection, 90  
electronic rangefinder, 84, 382  
indicator, 55, 74, 84, 305, 306  
lock, 80, 82, 312  
H
[HDMI], 348  
HDMI, 276, 348, 440  
Help, 31  
Hi, 105  
[Hide image], 281  
High definition, 274, 276, 348, 440  
[High ISO NR], 300  
Highlights, 231, 232, 282  
Histogram, 232, 282  
I
[Image area], 60, 63  
[5:4 (30x24)], 61  
[Auto DX crop], 60, 63  
[Choose image area], 61, 63  
[DX format (24x16)], 61  
mode, 74, 305, 306  
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[FX format (36x24)], 61  
Image area, 38, 60, 70, 297  
[Image authentication], 356  
[Image comment], 350  
Image Dust Off, 353  
focus ring, 38  
mounting index, 37, 38  
non-CPU, 218, 385  
data, 219  
removing, 38  
[Image overlay], 371  
type D, 384  
[Image quality], 66  
type G, 384  
Image quality, 66  
[Live view], 90  
[Image review], 287  
[Image size], 70  
Image size, 70  
[Live view mode], 91, 94  
[Hand-held], 91  
[Tripod], 94  
[Index print], 271  
[Release mode], 91  
Live view, 90–99  
Lo, 105  
[Lock mirror up for cleaning], 347  
[Long exp. NR], 300  
In-focus indicator, 55, 74, 84, 305, 306  
Information, 14, 229, 324  
[Interval timer shooting], 211  
Interval timer shooting, 211  
[ISO sensitivity], 104  
M
[ISO sensitivity auto control], 106  
[Maximum sensitivity], 106  
[Minimum shutter speed], 106  
[ISO sensitivity settings], 105  
ISO sensitivity, 103  
M (manual focus mode), 74, 83  
M (medium), 70  
Magenta, 144, 370  
[Manage Picture Control], 170  
Manual, 83, 92, 120  
Mass Storage, 257, 352  
Matrix, 110, 317, 334  
[Max. continuous release], 321  
Memory buffer, 88, 89  
Memory card, 42, 347, 394  
capacity of, 427  
formatting, 45, 347  
slot, 42, 156, 228  
Metering, 110, 317, 334  
center-weighted, 110  
matrix, 110  
selector, 53, 111  
spot, 110  
Microdrive, 6, 42, 394  
Mirror, 86, 102  
lock up for cleaning, 400  
[Modeling flash], 327  
Monitor, 14, 57, 90, 226, 229, 319, 395  
Monitor brightness, 99, 347  
[Monitor off delay], 319  
[Monochrome], 369  
[Black-and-white], 369  
[ISO sensitivity step value], 314  
i-TTL, 186, 193  
J
JPEG, 66, 68, 72  
[JPEG compression], 68  
[Optimal quality], 68  
[Size priority], 68  
L
L, 70  
LAN, 387  
[Language], 39, 349  
LCD, 10, 325, 347, 404, 405  
[LCD brightness], 347  
[LCD illumination], 325  
Lens, 37, 84, 382  
attaching, 37  
cap, 37, 38  
cap, rear, 37  
compatible, 382  
CPU, 38, 384  
distance information, 193  
445  
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Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).  
[Cyanotype], 369  
[Sepia], 369  
thumbnail, 241, 331  
zoom, 243  
Mounting index, 37, 38  
MTP/PTP, 257, 352  
[Playback folder], 281  
[Print (DPOF)], 268  
[Border], 270  
[Multi selector], 332  
[Multi selector center button], 331  
[Multiple exposure], 206  
Multiple exposure, 206  
[My Menu], 376  
[Page size], 270  
[Start printing], 270  
[Time stamp], 270  
Print options (PictBridge [Setup]  
menu), 266  
[Add items], 376  
[Rank items], 379  
[Border], 266  
[Remove items], 378  
[Cropping], 267  
[No. of copies], 266  
[Page size], 266  
[Start printing], 267  
[Time stamp], 266  
[Print select], 268  
[Border], 270  
N
NEF, 66, 69  
NEF (RAW), 66, 69  
[NEF (RAW) recording], 69  
[NEF (RAW) bit depth], 69  
[12-bit], 69  
[Page size], 270  
[14-bit], 69  
[Type], 69  
[Start printing], 270  
[Time stamp], 270  
[Print set (DPOF)], 272  
Printing, 262  
Programmed auto, 114  
Protecting photographs, 244  
[Compressed], 69  
[Lossless compressed], 69  
[Uncompressed], 69  
Nikon Transfer, 256, 259  
[No memory card?], 344  
[Non-CPU lens data], 218  
R
Rear-curtain sync, 194  
[Red-eye correction], 367  
Red-eye reduction, 194  
Red-eye reduction with slow sync, 195  
[Release button to use dial], 343  
Release mode, 85  
continuous, 86, 88  
high speed, 86, 88  
low speed, 86, 88  
live view, 86, 90  
mirror up, 86, 102  
self-timer, 86, 100  
single frame, 86  
O
Overview data, 239, 240  
P
PC, 222, 259  
Photo info, 229  
[Photo info/playback], 332  
PictBridge, 263, 440  
Picture angle, 60, 297, 386  
Picture Controls, 162  
Playback, 57, 225, 274  
folder, 281  
full-frame, 226  
information, 229  
menu, 278  
Remote cord, 392  
Reset, 204, 293, 304, 422  
slide show, 288  
446  
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[Reset custom settings], 304  
[Reset shooting menu], 293  
[Reverse indicators], 345  
RGB color space, 184  
RGB histogram, 232, 282  
[Rotate tall], 287  
[RAW Slot 1-JPEG Slot 2], 72  
Slot selection, 156, 228, 279, 364  
Slow sync, 194  
Speedlight, 186  
Spot, 110, 317  
T
S
Television, 274  
S (single-point AF), 76  
S (single-servo AF), 74, 80  
S (small), 70  
Ten-pin remote terminal, 4, 221, 392  
Thumbnail, 241, 331  
TIFF (RGB), 66  
[Save/load settings], 358  
Saving camera settings, 358  
[Self-timer delay], 319  
Sensitivity, 103  
Time, 40, 349  
Time exposure, 392  
Timer, 100, 211  
[Trim], 368  
[Set Picture Control], 164  
[Monochrome], 164  
[Filter effects], 167, 169  
[Toning], 167, 169  
[Neutral], 164  
[Standard], 164  
Two-button reset, 204  
U
[USB], 257, 352  
[Mass Storage], 257, 352  
[MTP/PTP], 257, 352  
USB, 256, 352  
cable, i, 256  
[Vivid], 164  
Setup menu, 346  
V
Shooting data, 234, 235, 236, 237  
[Shooting info display], 324  
Shooting menu, 290  
[Shooting menu bank], 291  
[Shooting speed], 321  
Shutter speed, 116, 123  
auto FP high-speed sync, 186, 194,  
326  
[Vertical AF-ON button], 313  
Vertical shutter-release button lock,  
337  
Video, 274, 348  
[Video mode], 348  
Viewfinder, xviii, 6, 7, 12, 47, 388, 389,  
407  
eyepiece, 47, 100, 213, 388, 389  
focus, 47  
ViewNX, 163, 350  
[Vignette control], 299  
[Virtual horizon], 360  
Virtual horizon, 99, 335, 360  
[Voice memo], 248, 351  
Voice memo, 227, 246, 247–254  
[Voice memo button], 249, 352  
[Voice memo overwrite], 249, 352  
flash sync speed, 194, 326  
lock, 123  
Shutter-priority auto, 116  
Shutter-release button, 3, 56  
[Shutter-release button AE-L], 318  
[Side-by-side comparison], 374  
Single-point AF, 76  
Size, 70  
[Slide show], 288  
[Frame interval], 288  
Slide show, 288  
W
WB, 6, 146  
[White balance], 140  
[Auto], 140  
[Slot 2], 72, 296  
[Backup], 72  
[Overflow], 72  
447  
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Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).  
[Choose color temp.], 141  
[Cloudy], 141  
[Direct sunlight], 140  
[Flash], 141  
[Fluorescent], 140  
[Incandescent], 140  
[Preset manual], 141  
[Shade], 141  
White balance, 139  
bracketing, 130, 135  
preset manual, 141, 148  
Wireless, 187, 261, 262, 356, 387  
network, 261  
transmitter, 261, 356  
[Wireless transmitter], 356  
[World time], 40, 349  
[Date and time], 349  
[Date format], 349  
[Daylight saving time], 349  
[Time zone], 349  
WT-4, 261, 262, 356, 387  
448  
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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.  
Printed in Japan  
SB1F05(11)  
6MB03911-05  
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