Nikon D5000 User Manual

Nikon D5000 User Manual

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Summary of Contents for Nikon D5000

  • Page 1 DIGITAL CAMERA User's Manual...
  • Page 2 Where to Find It Find what you’re looking for from: The Table of Contents Find items by function or menu name. The Q&A Index Know what you want to do but don’t know the function name? Find it from the “question and answer” index. The Index Search by key word.
  • Page 3 Q&A Index Table of Contents Introduction Basic Photography and Playback Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) Recording and Viewing Movies More on Photography (All Modes) P, S, A, and M Modes More on Playback Connections The Playback Menu The Shooting Menu Custom Settings The Setup Menu The Retouch Menu...
  • Page 4 Q&A Index Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index. Camera Displays Question What do these icons mean? How many more shots can I take with this card? How much charge does the battery have left? How do I keep the displays from turning off? How do I display the menus in another language? How do I adjust monitor brightness? Can I display a framing grid in the viewfinder?
  • Page 5 Taking Photographs Question Is there a quick and easy way to take snapshots? How do I quickly adjust settings for different scenes? Can I frame photos in the monitor? Can I angle the monitor for easier framing? Can I shoot movies? How do I take pictures for printing at large sizes? How can I get more pictures on the memory card? Can I take pictures with a small file size for e-mail?
  • Page 6 Viewing, Retouching, and Printing Photographs Question How do I view photographs on the camera? How do I delete unwanted photos? Can I zoom in on photos during playback? Can I protect photos from accidental deletion? Can I view photos in an automatic slide show? Can I view photos on HD or standard TVs? How do I copy photos to a computer? How do I print photos?
  • Page 7 Menus and Settings Question How do I use the menus? How do I get help for a menu or message? How do I adjust settings? How do I restore default settings? How do I set the camera clock? 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? Is there a quick way to access frequently-used settings?
  • Page 8: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Q&A Index ... ii For Your Safety ... xii Notices... xiv Introduction Overview... 2 Getting to Know the Camera... 3 The Camera Body ...3 The Mode Dial...5 The Viewfinder...6 The Monitor ...7 The Information Display...8 The Command Dial ... 10 The Power Switch...
  • Page 9 s Party/Indoor ...35 t Beach/Snow ...36 u Sunset...36 v Dusk/Dawn ...36 w Pet Portrait...36 x Candlelight...37 y Blossom...37 z Autumn Colors ...37 0 Food...37 1 Silhouette...38 2 High Key...38 3 Low Key...38 Basic Playback ...39 Deleting Unwanted Photographs...40 Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) Framing Photographs in the Monitor ...42 Recording and Viewing Movies Recording Movies ...50...
  • Page 10 P, S, A, and M Modes Shutter Speed and Aperture ...80 Mode P (Programmed Auto) ... 81 Mode S (Shutter-Priority Auto)... 82 Mode A (Aperture-Priority Auto) ... 83 Mode M (Manual) ... 84 Exposure ...88 Metering ... 88 Autoexposure Lock... 89 Exposure Compensation...
  • Page 11 Connecting to a Computer ... 134 Before Connecting the Camera ... 134 Connecting the Camera ... 135 Printing Photographs... 136 Connecting the Printer ... 136 Printing Pictures One at a Time ... 137 Printing Multiple Pictures ... 139 Creating Index Prints ... 142 Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set...
  • Page 12 d7: Live View Display Options ...161 e: Bracketing/Flash...162 e1: Flash Cntrl for Built-in Flash ...162 e2: Auto Bracketing Set ...162 f: Controls ...163 f1: Assign E/Fn Button ...163 f2: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button ...164 f3: Reverse Dial Rotation...164 f4: No Memory Card? ...164 f5: Reverse Indicators...164 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup...
  • Page 13 Compatible CPU Lenses ... 194 Compatible Non-CPU Lenses ... 195 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)... 198 The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) ... 198 Other Accessories ... 202 Approved Memory Cards... 203 Attaching a Power Connector and AC Adapter ... 204 Caring for the Camera...
  • Page 14: For Your Safety

    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.
  • Page 15 Use appropriate cables When connecting cables to the input and output jacks, use only the cables provided or sold by Nikon for the purpose to maintain compliance with product regulations. CD-ROMs CD-ROMs containing software or manuals should not be played back on audio CD equipment.
  • Page 16: Notices

    • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help. • Nikon will not be held liable for any damages resulting from the use of this product. • While every effort has been made to...
  • Page 17 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.
  • Page 18 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.
  • Page 19: Introduction

    Introduction This chapter covers information you will need to know before using the camera, including the names of camera parts, how to use the camera menus, and how to ready the camera for use. Overview ... Getting to Know the Camera... The Camera Body...
  • Page 20: Overview

    Overview Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. To get the most from your camera, please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly and keep them where they will be read by all who use the product.
  • Page 21: Getting To Know The Camera

    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. The Camera Body Mode dial...5 Focal plane mark (E) ...61 R (information) button...8...
  • Page 22 Viewfinder eyepiece... 25 DK-24 rubber eyecup Monitor Viewing settings ...8 Live view ... 41 Viewing pictures ... 39 Full-frame playback... 116 O (delete) button Deleting pictures ... 40 Deleting pictures during playback... 126 K (playback) button .. 39, 116 G (menu) button ... 13, 145 W (thumbnail/playback zoom out) button...122 Q (help) button...13...
  • Page 23: The Mode Dial

    The Mode Dial The camera offers a choice of the following shooting modes: P, S, A, and M Modes Select these modes for full control over camera settings. P—Programmed auto (0 81): Camera chooses shutter speed and aperture, user controls other settings.
  • Page 24: The Viewfinder

    The Viewfinder Framing grid (displayed when is selected for Custom Setting d2)... 158 Reference circle for center- weighted metering ... 88 “No memory card” indicator Battery indicator ... 28 Focus points ... 58 Focus indicator ...31, 61 Autoexposure (AE) lock indicator...
  • Page 25: The Monitor

    The Monitor The monitor opens outwards 180° and can be rotated 180° left or 90° right as shown below, allowing the monitor to be angled for high- and low-angle photography or rotated to face the user for self-portraits (0 45). Shooting Position In other situations, the monitor can be stowed on the camera body by opening it outward and...
  • Page 26: The Information Display

    The Information Display Shooting information, including shutter speed, aperture, and the number of exposures remaining, is displayed in the monitor when the R button is pressed. Camera in normal orientation 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 P Set Shooting mode i auto/ j auto (flash off) ...
  • Page 27 Changing Settings in the Information Display To change settings for the items listed in the information display, press the P button. Highlight items using the multi selector and press J to view options for the highlighted item. Some items can also be adjusted using the command dial and camera buttons (0 10).
  • Page 28: The Command Dial

    The Command Dial The command dial can be used with other controls to adjust a variety of settings when shooting information is displayed in the monitor. M button: flash mode and flash compensation Fn (E) button: release mode, image quality and size, ISO sensitivity, white balance, Active D-Lighting,...
  • Page 29 Choose an aperture (mode M; 0 84). Mode M Set exposure compensation (mode P, S, or A; 0 90). Mode P, S, or A Choose a flash mode (0 71). Adjust flash compensation (mode P, S, A, or M; 0 92). M button P, S, A, or M E button...
  • Page 30: The Power Switch

    The role of the Fn (E) button can be selected using Custom Setting f1 (Assign allowing the following settings to be adjusted by pressing the Fn (E) button and rotating the command dial: Release mode (0 65) ISO sensitivity (0 74) Active D-Lighting (0 94) The Power Switch Rotate the power switch as shown to turn the camera...
  • Page 31: Camera Menus

    Camera Menus Most shooting, playback, and setup options can be accessed from the camera menus. To view the menus, press the G button. Tabs Choose from the following menus: • : Playback (0 146) • : Shooting (0 148) • : Custom Settings (0 153) If a d icon is displayed at the bottom left corner of the monitor, help can be displayed by pressing the Q button.
  • Page 32: Using Camera Menus

    Using Camera Menus The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the camera menus. Cancel and return to Follow the steps below to navigate the menus. Display the menus. Press the G button to display the menus. Highlight the icon for the current menu. Press 4 to highlight the icon for the current menu.
  • Page 33 Position the cursor in the selected menu. Press 2 to position the cursor in the selected menu. Highlight a menu item. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a menu item. Display options. Press 2 to display options for the selected menu item.
  • Page 34: First Steps

    First Steps Charge the Battery The camera is powered by an EN-EL9a rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied). To maximize shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-23 quick charger before use. About one hour and forty minutes are required to fully recharge the battery when no charge remains.
  • Page 35: Insert The Battery

    Insert the Battery Turn the camera off. Inserting and Removing Batteries Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing batteries. Open the battery-chamber cover. Unlatch (q) and open (w) the battery-chamber cover. Insert the battery. Insert the battery as shown at right. Close the battery-chamber cover.
  • Page 36: Attach A Lens

    Attach a Lens Care should be taken to prevent dust from entering the camera when the lens is removed. An AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR lens is used in this manual for illustrative purposes. Focal length scale Lens cap Focus ring (0 60, 229) Turn the camera off.
  • Page 37 3 EV at a focal length of 55mm (Nikon measurements; effects vary with the user and shooting conditions). To use vibration reduction, slide the VR switch to ON. Vibration...
  • Page 38: Basic Setup

    Basic Setup A language-selection dialog will be displayed the first time the camera is turned on. Choose a language and set the time and date. Photographs can not be taken until you have set the time and date. Turn the camera on. A language-selection dialog will be displayed.
  • Page 39 Set the date and time. The dialog shown at right will be displayed. Press 4 or 2 to select an item, 1 or 3 to change. Press J to set the clock and exit to shooting mode. The Setup Menu Language and date/time settings can be changed at any time using the Language (0 169) and Time zone and date (0 169) options in the setup menu.
  • Page 40: Insert A Memory Card

    Insert a Memory Card The camera stores pictures on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (available separately). Turn the camera off. Inserting and Removing Memory Cards Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing memory cards. Open the card slot cover. Slide the card slot cover out (q) and open the card slot (w).
  • Page 41: Format The Memory Card

    Format the Memory Card Memory cards must be formatted after being used or formatted in other devices. Format the card as described below. 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 (0 134).
  • Page 42 Memory Cards • Memory cards may be hot after use. Observe due caution when removing memory cards from the camera. • 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.
  • Page 43: Adjust Viewfinder Focus

    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 framing pictures in the viewfinder. Remove the lens cap and turn the camera Focus the viewfinder.
  • Page 45: Basic Photography And Playback

    Basic Photography and Playback This chapter outlines the basics of taking and viewing photographs in auto and scene modes. “Point-and-Shoot” Photography (i and j Modes)... 28 Step 1: Turn the Camera On ... Step 2: Select i or j Mode... Step 3: Frame the Photograph ...
  • Page 46: Point-And-Shoot" Photography (I And J Modes)

    “Point-and-Shoot” Photography (i and j Modes) This section describes how to take photographs in i (auto) mode, an automatic “point-and-shoot” mode in which the majority of settings are controlled by the camera in response to shooting conditions, and in which the flash will fire automatically if the subject is poorly lit. To take photographs with the flash off while leaving the camera in control of other settings, rotate the mode dial to j to select auto (flash off ) mode.
  • Page 47 Check the number of exposures remaining. The information display and viewfinder show the number of photographs that can be stored on the memory card. Check the number of exposures remaining. If there is not enough memory to store additional photographs at current settings, a warning will be displayed.
  • Page 48: Step 2: Select I Or J Mode

    Step 2: Select i or j Mode To shoot where use of a flash is prohibited, photograph infants, or capture natural lighting under low light conditions, rotate the mode dial to j. Otherwise, rotate the mode dial to i. j mode Step 3: Frame the Photograph Ready the camera.
  • Page 49: Step 4: Focus

    Using a Zoom Lens Use the zoom ring to zoom in on the subject so that it fills a larger area of the frame, or zoom out to increase the area visible in the final photograph (select longer focal lengths on the lens focal length scale index to zoom in, shorter focal lengths to zoom out).
  • Page 50: Step 5: Shoot

    Step 5: Shoot Smoothly press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to release the shutter and record the photograph. The access lamp next to the memory card slot cover will light and the photograph will be displayed in the monitor for a few seconds (to resume shooting before the photograph clears from the display, press the shutter-release button halfway).
  • Page 51: Creative Photography (Scene Modes)

    Creative Photography (Scene Modes) The camera offers a choice of “scene” modes. Choosing a scene mode automatically optimizes settings to suit the selected scene, making creative photography as simple as selecting a mode, framing a picture, and shooting as described on pages 28–32. The Mode Dial The following scenes can be selected with the mode dial:...
  • Page 52: Portrait

    Scene Modes Portrait Use for portraits with soft, natural- looking skin tones. If the subject is far from the background or a telephoto lens is used, background details will be softened to lend the composition a sense of depth. Landscape Use for vivid landscape shots in daylight.
  • Page 53: Close Up

    Close Up Use for close-up shots of flowers, insects, and other small objects (a macro lens can be used to focus at very close ranges). Use of a tripod is recommended to prevent blur. Night Portrait Use for a natural balance between the main subject and the background in portraits taken under low light.
  • Page 54: Beach/Snow

    Beach/Snow Capture the brightness of sunlight expanses of water, snow, or sand. The built-in flash and AF-assist illuminator turn off. Sunset Preserves the deep hues seen in sunsets and sunrises. The built-in flash and AF- assist illuminator turn off; use of a tripod is recommended to prevent blur when lighting is poor.
  • Page 55: Candlelight

    Candlelight For photographs taken by candlelight. The built-in flash turns off; use of a tripod is recommended to prevent blur when lighting is poor. Blossom Use for fields of flowers, orchards in bloom, and other landscapes featuring expanses of blossoms. The built-in flash turns off;...
  • Page 56: Silhouette

    Silhouette Silhouette subjects against bright backgrounds. The built-in flash turns off; use of a tripod is recommended to prevent blur when lighting is poor. High Key Use to create bright images that seem filled with light when shooting bright scenes. The built-in flash turns off. Low Key Use to create dark, somber images that bring out highlights when shooting dark...
  • Page 57: Basic Playback

    1 and 3 (0 117). To end playback and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. K button 1/ 12 1 250 AUTO 0, 0 100D5000 DSC_0001. JPG 15/04/2009 10 NIKON D5000 35mm NOR ORMAL AL 4288x2848...
  • Page 58: Deleting Unwanted Photographs

    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. Display the photograph. Display the photograph you wish to delete as described on the preceding page. Delete the photograph.
  • Page 59: Framing Pictures In The Monitor (Live View)

    Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) This chapter describes how to frame pictures in the monitor using live view. Framing Photographs in the Monitor... 42...
  • Page 60: Framing Photographs In The Monitor

    Framing Photographs in the Monitor Follow the steps below to take photographs in live view. Press the a button. 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.
  • Page 61 Choose an autofocus mode. Press the P button and use the multi selector to highlight the current autofocus mode in the monitor. Press J to display the following options (the default option differs depending on the shooting mode; 0 78). Highlight an option and press J.
  • Page 62 Focus. Press the shutter-release button halfway to focus. Face priority: The camera sets focus and exposure for the face in the double yellow border while the shutter-release button is pressed halfway; if the camera can no longer detect the subject (because, for example, the subject has looked away), borders will no longer be displayed.
  • Page 63 Live View Display Options Press the R button to cycle through display options as shown below. The options available depend on the setting selected for Custom Setting d7 (Live view display options; 0 161). Show indicators Hide indicators Positioning the Monitor The monitor can be adjusted for self-portraits or for low- or high-angle shots.
  • Page 64 Shooting in Live View Mode To prevent light entering via the viewfinder from interfering with exposure, remove the rubber eyecup and cover the viewfinder with the supplied DK-5 eyepiece cap before shooting. 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 an object moves at high speed through frame.
  • Page 65 Manual Focus To focus in manual focus mode (0 60), rotate the lens focus ring until the subject is in focus. × To magnify the view in the monitor up to about 6.7 for precise focus, press the X button. While the view through the lens is zoomed in, a navigation window will appear in a gray frame at the bottom right corner of the display.
  • Page 67: Recording And Viewing Movies

    Recording and Viewing Movies This chapter describes how to record movies in live view. Recording Movies... 50 Viewing Movies... 52...
  • Page 68: Recording Movies

    Recording Movies Movies can be recorded at 24 fps in live view mode. Press the a button. The mirror is raised and the view through the lens is displayed in the monitor instead of the viewfinder. The 0 Icon A 0 icon (0 42) indicates that movies can not be recorded.
  • Page 69 Movie Settings To choose movie frame size and sound options: Select Movie settings. Press the G button to display the menus. Highlight Movie settings in the shooting menu and press 2. Choose frame size and sound recording options. To choose a frame size, highlight Quality and press 2.
  • Page 70: Viewing Movies

    Viewing Movies Movies are indicated by a 1 icon in full-frame playback (0 116). The following operations can be performed while a movie is displayed: 1 icon Start/pause/ resume Advance/ rewind Adjust volume Exit to shooting mode Display menus Return to full- frame playback Press J to start, pause, or resume playback.
  • Page 71: More On Photography (All Modes)

    More on Photography (All Modes) This and the following two chapters build on the Tutorial to cover more advanced shooting and playback options. Focus ... 54 Focus Mode... AF-Area Mode ... Focus Point Selection ... Focus Lock ... Manual Focus... Image Quality and Size...
  • Page 72: Focus

    Focus Focus can be adjusted automatically or manually (see “Focus Mode, ” below). The user can also select the focus point for automatic or manual focus (0 60) or use focus lock to focus to recompose photographs after focusing (0 58). Focus Mode Choose from automatic and manual focus modes.
  • Page 73 Continuous-servo Autofocus In AF-C mode or when continuous-servo autofocus is selected in AF-A mode, the camera gives priority to shutter response and the shutter may be released before the in-focus indicator is displayed. 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 (I) may be displayed and the camera may sound a beep, allowing the shutter to be released even when the subject is not in focus.
  • Page 74: Af-Area Mode

    AF-Area Mode Choose how the focus point for autofocus is selected. Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display. R button Display AF-area mode options.
  • Page 75 Choose an AF-area mode. Highlight one of the following options and press Option User selects focus point using multi selector (0 58); camera focuses c Single point on subject in selected focus point only. Use with stationary subjects. In AF-A and AF-C focus modes, user selects focus point manually (0 58), but camera will focus based on information from surrounding focus Dynamic points if subject briefly leaves selected point.
  • Page 76: Focus Point Selection

    Focus Point Selection In manual focus mode or when autofocus is combined with AF-area modes other than e Auto-area, you can choose from 11 focus points, making it possible to compose photographs with the main subject almost anywhere in the frame. Choose an AF-area mode other than e Auto area Select the focus point.
  • Page 77 Lock focus. AF-A and AF-C focus modes: With the shutter-release button pressed halfway (q), press the AE-L/AF-L button (w) to lock both focus and exposure (an AE-L icon will be displayed in the viewfinder). Focus will remain locked while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed, even if you later remove your finger from the shutter-release button.
  • Page 78: Manual Focus

    Manual Focus Manual focus can be used when you are not using an AF-S or AF-I lens or when autofocus does not produce the desired results (0 55). Set the lens focus-mode switch. If the lens is equipped with an A-M or M/A-M switch, slide the switch to M.
  • Page 79 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 11 focus points). After positioning the subject in the selected focus point, press the shutter-release button halfway and rotate the lens focus ring until the in-focus indicator (I) is displayed.
  • Page 80: Image Quality And Size

    Image Quality and Size Together, image quality and size determine how much space each photograph occupies on the memory card. Larger, higher quality images can be printed at larger sizes but also require more memory, meaning that fewer such images can be stored on the memory card (0 215).
  • Page 81 Option File type Two images are recorded: one NEF (RAW) image and one fine- NEF (RAW) + JPEG fine quality JPEG image. NEF/ Two images are recorded: one NEF (RAW) image and one normal- NEF (RAW) + JPEG normal JPEG quality JPEG image.
  • Page 82: Image Size

    Image Size Image size is measured in pixels. Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display. R button Display image size options.
  • Page 83: Release Mode

    Release Mode Release mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time, in a continuous sequence, with a timed shutter-release delay or remote control, or with reduced camera noise. Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display.
  • Page 84 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 100 photographs can be taken in succession; note, however, that frame rate will drop when the buffer is full. While photographs are being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the memory card slot will light.
  • Page 85: Self-Timer And Remote Modes

    Self-Timer and Remote Modes The self-timer and optional ML-L3 wireless remote control (0 203) can be used to reduce camera shake or for self-portraits. Mount the camera on a tripod. Mount the camera on a tripod or place the camera on a stable, level surface. Select a release mode (0 65).
  • Page 86 Take the photograph. Self-timer mode: Press the shutter- release button halfway to focus, and then press the button the rest of the way down to start the self-timer. The self-timer lamp will start to blink and a beep will begin to sound. Two seconds before the photograph is taken, the self-timer lamp will stop blinking and the beeping will become...
  • Page 87 Before Using the Remote Control Before using the remote control for the first time, remove the clear plastic battery insulator sheet. Using the Built-in Flash Before taking a photograph with the flash in P, S, A, M, or 0 modes, press the M button to raise the flash and wait for the M indicator to be displayed in the viewfinder (0 70).
  • Page 88: Using The Built-In Flash

    Using the Built-in Flash The camera supports a variety of flash modes for photographing poorly lit or backlit subjects. Using the Built-in Flash: i, k, p, n, o, s, and w Modes Choose a flash mode (0 71). Take pictures. The flash will pop up as required when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, and fire when a photograph is taken.
  • Page 89: Flash Mode

    Flash Mode To choose a flash mode: Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display. R button Information display Display flash mode options.
  • Page 90 Flash Modes The flash modes listed on the previous page may combine one or more of the following settings, as shown by the flash mode icon: • AUTO (auto flash): When lighting is poor or subject is back lit, flash pops up automatically when shutter-release button is pressed halfway and fires as required.
  • Page 91 Aperture, Sensitivity, and Flash Range Flash range varies with sensitivity (ISO equivalency) and aperture. Aperture at ISO equivalent of — 1600 3200 1.0–12 0.7–8.5 0.6–6.1 0.6–4.2 0.6–3.0 0.6–2.1 — 0.6–1.5 — — 0.6–1.1 — — 0.6–0.8 Range 3ft. 3in.–39ft. 4in. 2ft.
  • Page 92: Iso Sensitivity

    ISO Sensitivity “ISO sensitivity” is the digital equivalent of film speed. The higher the ISO sensitivity, the less light needed to make an exposure, allowing higher shutter speeds or smaller apertures. Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display.
  • Page 93 AUTO If the mode dial is rotated to P, S, A, or M after AUTO is selected for ISO sensitivity in another mode, the ISO sensitivity last selected in P, S, A, or M mode will be restored. Hi 0.3–Hi 1 Pictures taken at these settings are more likely to be subject to noise and color distortion.
  • Page 94: Interval Timer Photography

    Interval Timer Photography The camera is equipped to take photographs automatically at preset intervals. Select Interval timer shooting. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight the shooting menu tab (C) and press 2 to display the shooting menu, then highlight Interval timer shooting and press 2.
  • Page 95 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 shot will be taken at the specified starting time, or after about three seconds if Now was selected for Choose start time in Step 2.
  • Page 96: Two-Button Reset

    Two-Button Reset The camera settings listed below can be restored to default values by holding the R and P buttons down together for more than two seconds (these buttons are marked by a green dot). The information display turns off briefly while settings are reset.
  • Page 97: P, S, A, And M Modes

    P, S, A, and M Modes P, S, A, and M modes offer control over a variety of advanced settings, including shutter speed and aperture, metering, flash compensation, and white balance. Shutter Speed and Aperture ... 80 Mode P (Programmed Auto)... Mode S (Shutter-Priority Auto)...
  • Page 98: Shutter Speed And Aperture

    Shutter Speed and Aperture P, S, A, and M modes offer different degrees of control over shutter speed and aperture: Mode Programmed auto (0 81) Shutter-priority auto (0 82) Aperture-priority auto (0 83) M Manual (0 84) Lens Aperture Rings When using a CPU lens equipped with an aperture ring (0 194), lock the aperture ring at the minimum aperture (highest f-number).
  • Page 99: Mode P (Programmed Auto)

    Mode P (Programmed Auto) In this mode, the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture for 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.
  • Page 100: Mode S (Shutter-Priority Auto)

    Mode S (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. Use slow shutter speeds to suggest motion by blurring moving subjects, fast shutter speeds to “freeze”...
  • Page 101: Mode A (Aperture-Priority Auto)

    Mode A (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. Large apertures (low f-numbers) reduce depth of field, blurring objects behind and in front of the main subject.
  • Page 102: Mode M (Manual)

    Mode M (Manual) In manual exposure mode, you control both shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in manual exposure mode: Rotate the mode dial to M. Choose aperture and shutter speed. Checking the exposure indicator (0 85), adjust shutter speed and aperture. Shutter speed is selected by rotating the command dial: choose from values between 30 s and for a long time-exposure (0 86).
  • Page 103 The Exposure Indicator If a CPU lens is attached and a shutter speed other than “bulb” or “time” is selected, the exposure indicator in the viewfinder and information display shows whether the photograph would be under- or over-exposed at current settings. Depending on the option chosen for Custom Setting b1 (EV steps for exposure cntrl.;...
  • Page 104: Long Time-Exposures (M Mode Only)

    Long Time-Exposures (M Mode Only) Shutter speeds of “bulb” and “time” can be used for long time-exposure photographs of moving lights, the stars, night scenery, or fireworks. To prevent blurring caused by camera shake, use a tripod and an optional remote control or remote cord (0 203).
  • Page 105 Open the shutter. Bulb: After focusing, press the shutter-release button on the camera or remote cord all the way down. Keep the shutter-release button pressed until the exposure is complete. If you are using a remote cord, see the manual provided with the product for more information.
  • Page 106: Exposure

    Exposure Metering Choose how the camera sets exposure in P, S, A, and M modes (in other modes, the camera selects the metering method automatically). Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display.
  • Page 107: Autoexposure Lock

    Autoexposure Lock Use autoexposure lock to recompose photographs after metering exposure: Select center-weighted (M) or spot (N) metering (0 88). Matrix metering (L) will not produce the desired results. Lock exposure. Position the subject in the selected focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway.
  • Page 108: Exposure Compensation

    Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker. It is most effective when used with center-weighted or spot metering (0 88). Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button.
  • Page 109 The E Button Exposure compensation can also be set by pressing the E button and rotating the command dial. The selected value is shown in the viewfinder and information display. Mode M In mode M, exposure compensation affects only the exposure indicator; shutter speed and aperture do not change.
  • Page 110: Flash Compensation

    Flash Compensation Flash compensation is used to alter flash output from the level suggested by the camera, changing the brightness of the main subject relative to the background. Flash output can be increased to make the main subject appear brighter, or reduced to prevent unwanted highlights or reflections.
  • Page 111 The Y (M) and E Buttons Flash compensation can also be set by rotating the command dial while pressing the Y (M) and E buttons. The selected value is shown in the viewfinder and information display. Optional Flash Units Flash compensation is also available with an optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, or SB-R200 flash units.
  • Page 112: Active D-Lighting

    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. It is most effective when used with matrix metering (L;...
  • Page 113 Active D-Lighting Noise (graininess, banding, and mottling) may appear in photographs taken with Active D-Lighting at high ISO sensitivities. If center-weighted or spot metering is selected, settings other than X Off are equivalent to Q Normal. In mode M, an Active D-Lighting setting of G Auto is equivalent to Q Normal.
  • Page 114: White Balance

    White Balance White balance ensures that colors are unaffected by the color of the light source. Auto white balance is recommended for most light sources; in P, S, A, and M modes, other values can be selected if necessary according to the type of source: Place the cursor in the information display.
  • Page 115 The Shooting Menu White balance can be selected using the White balance option in the shooting menu (0 148), which also can be used to fine-tune white balance (0 98) or measure a value for preset white balance (0 99). The I Fluorescent option in the White balance menu can be used to select the light source from the bulb types shown at right.
  • Page 116: Fine-Tuning White Balance

    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. Display white balance options.
  • Page 117: Preset Manual

    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 Neutral gray or white object is placed under lighting that will be used in final photo Measure and white balance measured by camera (see below).
  • Page 118 When the camera is ready to measure white balance, a flashing D (L) will appear in the viewfinder and information display. Measure white balance. Before the indicators stop flashing, frame the reference object so that it fills the viewfinder and press the shutter-release button all the way down.
  • Page 119 Measuring Preset White Balance If no operations are performed while the displays are flashing, direct measurement mode will end when the exposure meters turn off. The auto meter-off delay can be changed using Custom Setting c2 (Auto off timers; 0 157). The default setting is eight seconds. Preset White Balance The camera can store only one value for preset white balance at a time;...
  • Page 120 Copying White Balance from a Photograph Follow the steps below to copy a value for white balance from a photograph on the memory card. Select Preset manual. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight White balance in the shooting menu and press 2 to display white balance options.
  • Page 121: Bracketing

    Bracketing Bracketing automatically varies exposure, Active D-Lighting, or white balance slightly with each shot, “bracketing” the current value. Choose in situations in which it is difficult to set exposure, Active D-Lighting, or white balance and there is not time to check results and adjust settings with each shot, or to experiment with different settings for the same subject.
  • Page 122 Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display. R button Display bracketing options. Highlight the indicator for the selected bracketing mode and press J.
  • Page 123 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. AE bracketing: The camera will vary exposure with each shot. The first shot will be taken at the value currently selected for exposure compensation. The bracketing increment will be subtracted from the current value in the second shot and added in the third shot, “bracketing”...
  • Page 124: Picture Controls

    Picture Controls Nikon’s unique Picture Control system makes it possible to share image processing settings, including sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue, among compatible devices and software. Selecting a Picture Control The camera offers six preset Picture Controls. In P, S, A, and M modes, you can choose a Picture Control according to the subject or type of scene (in other modes, the camera selects a Picture Control automatically).
  • Page 125 Choose a Picture Control. Highlight one of the following options and press Option Standard processing for balanced results. Recommended for most Q Standard situations. Minimal processing for natural results. Choose for photographs that R Neutral will later be extensively processed or retouched. Pictures are enhanced for a vivid, photoprint effect.
  • Page 126: Modifying Existing Picture Controls

    Modifying Existing Picture Controls Existing preset 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. Display the Picture Control menu. To display the menus, press the G button.
  • Page 127 Picture Control Settings Option 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). Quick adjust For example, choosing positive values for Vivid makes pictures more vivid. Not available with Neutral, Monochrome, or custom Picture Controls.
  • Page 128 The Picture Control Grid Pressing the X button in Step 3 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 X button to return to the Picture Control menu.
  • Page 129: Creating Custom Picture Controls

    Creating Custom Picture Controls The preset Picture Controls supplied with the camera can be modified and saved as custom Picture Controls. Select Manage Picture Control. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight Manage Picture Control in the shooting menu and press 2. Select Save/edit.
  • Page 130 Name the Picture Control. The text-entry dialog shown at right will be displayed. By default, new Picture Controls are named by adding a two-digit number (assigned automatically) to the name of the existing Picture Control. This name can be edited to create a new name of up to 19 characters as described on page 152.
  • Page 131: Sharing Custom Picture Controls

    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 and then deleted when no longer needed.
  • Page 132: The Gp-1 Gps Unit

    The GP-1 GPS Unit The GP-1 GPS unit (available separately) can be connected to the camera’s accessory terminal using the cable supplied with the GP-1, allowing information on the camera’s current position to be recorded when photographs are taken. Turn the camera off before connecting the GP-1;...
  • Page 133: More On Playback

    More on Playback This chapter describes how to view photographs and details the operations that can be performed during playback. Full-Frame Playback... 116 Photo Information ... 117 Thumbnail Playback ... 122 Calendar Playback... 123 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom ... 124 Protecting Photographs from Deletion ...
  • Page 134: Full-Frame Playback

    Full-Frame Playback To play photographs back, press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor. View additional photographs View photo information View thumbnails Zoom in on photograph Delete images Change protect L (A) status Return to shooting mode Display menus Retouch photo...
  • Page 135: Photo Information

    0001. JPG N N OR ORMAL AL 15/04/2009 10 15/04/2009 10 4288x2848 File information Overview data Hi gh l i gh t s N I KON D5000 1/ 12 N I KON D5000 RGB histogram Highlights File Information 100D5000 0001. JPG...
  • Page 136 RGB Histogram N I KON D5000 * Displayed only if RGB histogram is selected for Display mode (0 146). Playback Zoom To zoom in on the photograph when the histogram is displayed, press X. Use the X and W buttons to zoom in and out and scroll the image with the multi selector.
  • Page 137 Highlights Highlights N I KON D5000 * Displayed only if Highlights is selected for Display mode (0 146). Blinking areas indicate highlights. Shooting Data Page 1 MTR , SPD , AP . , 1 250 EXP. MODE, I SO , 200 0 .
  • Page 138 PI CTURE CTRL : STANDARD QUICK ADJUST SHARPENING CONTRAST BRI GHTNESS SATURATION N I KON D5000 Protect status ...125 Retouch indicator...175 White balance... 96 Color temperature... 97 White balance fine-tuning ... 98 Preset manual ... 99 1 Displayed only if Data is selected for Display mode (0 146).
  • Page 139 43. 696' : 35m ALTITUDE : 15/04/2009 TIME(UTC) : 01 : 15 : 29 N I KON D5000 * Displayed only if GPS device was used when photo was taken (0 114). Overview Data 1/ 12 NIKON D5000 F5 . 6 1 250 + 1 .
  • Page 140: Thumbnail Playback

    Thumbnail Playback To display images in “contact sheets” of four, nine, or 72 images, press the W button. Full-frame playback Display more images Display fewer images Highlight images View highlighted image Delete highlighted photo Change protect status of L (A) highlighted photo Return to...
  • Page 141: Calendar Playback

    Calendar Playback To view images taken on a selected date, press the W button when 72 images are displayed. Full-frame playback Press the W button to toggle between the date list and the list of thumbnails for the selected date. Use the multi selector to highlight dates in the date list or to highlight pictures in the thumbnail list.
  • Page 142: Taking A Closer Look: Playback Zoom

    Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom Press the X button to zoom in on the image displayed in full-frame playback or on the image currently highlighted in thumbnail or calendar playback. The following operations can be performed while zoom is in effect: X / W Zoom in or out View other...
  • Page 143: Protecting Photographs From Deletion

    Protecting Photographs from Deletion In full-frame, zoom, thumbnail, and calendar 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 (0 23).
  • Page 144: Deleting Photographs

    Deleting Photographs To delete the photograph displayed in full-frame playback or the photograph highlighted in the thumbnail list, press the O button. To delete multiple selected photographs, all photographs taken on a selected date, or all photographs in the current playback folder, use the Delete option in the playback menu. Once deleted, photographs can not be recovered.
  • Page 145: The Playback Menu

    The Playback Menu The Delete option in the playback menu contains the following options. Note that depending on the number of images, some time may be required for deletion. Option Q Selected Delete selected pictures. n Select date Delete all pictures taken on a selected date. R All Delete all pictures in the folder currently selected for playback (0 146).
  • Page 146 Select Date: Deleting Photographs Taken on a Selected Date Choose Select Date. In the delete menu, highlight Select date and press 2. Highlight a date. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a date. To view the pictures taken on the highlighted date, press W.
  • Page 147: Slide Shows

    Slide Shows The Slide show option in the playback menu is used to display a slide show of the pictures in the current playback folder ( To display the slide show menu, press the G button and select Slide show in the playback menu.
  • Page 149: Connections

    Connections This chapter describes how to copy photographs to a computer, how to print pictures, and how to view them on a television set. Viewing Photographs on TV... 132 Standard Definition Devices ... 132 High-Definition Devices ... 133 Connecting to a Computer ... 134 Before Connecting the Camera ...
  • Page 150: Viewing Photographs On Tv

    Viewing Photographs on TV The supplied EG-CP14 audio video (A/V) cable can be used to connect the camera to a television or VCR for playback or recording. A type C mini-pin High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable (available separately from third-party suppliers) can be used to connect the camera to high-definition video devices.
  • Page 151: High-Definition Devices

    High-Definition Devices The camera can be connected to HDMI devices using a type C mini-pin HDMI cable (available separately from third-party suppliers). Turn the camera off. Always turn the camera off before connecting or disconnecting an HDMI cable. Connect the HDMI cable as shown. Connect to high-definition device (choose cable with connector for HDMI device)
  • Page 152: Connecting To A Computer

    Nikon Transfer is used to copy photographs from the camera to the computer, where they can be viewed using ViewNX (Nikon Transfer can also be used to back up photographs and embed information in photographs as they are transferred, while ViewNX can be used to sort photographs, convert images to different file formats, and perform simple editing on NEF/RAW photographs).
  • Page 153: Connecting The Camera

    (for more information on using Nikon Transfer, select Nikon Transfer help from the Nikon Transfer Help menu). Turn the camera off and disconnect the USB cable when transfer ends. Nikon Transfer will close automatically when transfer is complete. Start Transfer button...
  • Page 154: Printing Photographs

    Printing Photographs To print selected JPEG pictures on a PictBridge printer via a direct USB connection, follow the steps below. Select photographs for printing using Print set (DPOF) Print photographs one at a time (0 137) Printing Via Direct USB Connection Be sure the EN-EL9a battery is fully charged or use an optional EH-5a AC adapter and EP-5 power connector.
  • Page 155: Printing Pictures One At A Time

    Turn the camera on. A welcome screen will be displayed in the monitor, followed by a PictBridge playback display. Printing Pictures One at a Time Select a picture. Press 4 or 2 to view additional pictures, or press 1 or 3 to view photo information (0 117). Press the X button to zoom in on the current frame (0 124;...
  • Page 156 Option This option is available only if supported by current printer. Menu shown at right will be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to choose print style from Printer default (print Border using current printer settings), Print with border (print photo with white border), or No border, then press to select and return to previous menu.
  • Page 157: Printing Multiple Pictures

    Printing Multiple Pictures Display the PictBridge menu. Press the G button in the PictBridge playback display (see Step 3 on page 137). Choose an option. Highlight one of the following options and press 2. • Print select: Select pictures for printing. •...
  • Page 158 Select pictures or choose a date. If you chose Print select or Print (DPOF) in Step 2, use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture full screen, press and hold the X button. To select the current picture for printing, press the W button and press 1.
  • Page 159 Display printing options. Press J to display PictBridge printing options. Adjust printing options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. Option Menu of page sizes will be displayed (0 137; options not supported by current printer are not listed).
  • Page 160: Creating Index Prints

    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” (0 139). Note that if the memory card contains more than 256 pictures, only the first 256 images will be printed. Select Index print.
  • Page 161: Creating A Dpof Print Order: Print Set

    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. Choose Select/set.
  • Page 162 Select imprint options. Highlight the following options and press 2 to toggle the highlighted option on or off (to complete the print order without including this information, proceed to Step 5). • Data imprint: Print shutter speed and aperture on all pictures in print order. •...
  • Page 163: Menu Guide

    Menu Guide The current menu is displayed by pressing the G button; to select from the menus listed below, press 4. This chapter describes the options available in the menus below. D The Playback Menu: Managing Images... 146 C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options... 148 A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings ...
  • Page 164: O The Playback Menu 0

    D The Playback Menu: Managing Images To display the playback menu, press G and select the D (playback menu) tab. G button The playback menu contains the following options: Option Delete Playback folder Display mode Image review Playback Folder Choose a folder for playback: Option Only photos in the folder currently selected for Active folder in the shooting menu are displayed during playback.
  • Page 165: Image Review

    Image Review Choose whether pictures are automatically displayed in the monitor immediately after shooting. If Off is selected, pictures can only be displayed by pressing the K button. Rotate Tall Choose whether to rotate “tall” (portrait-orientation) pictures for display during playback.
  • Page 166: C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options

    C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options To display the shooting menu, press G and select the C (shooting menu) tab. G button The shooting menu contains the following options: Option Scene mode Night landscape Set Picture Control Manage Picture Control Image quality Image size White balance...
  • Page 167: Iso Sensitivity Settings

    ISO Sensitivity Settings Adjust ISO sensitivity (0 74). ISO Sensitivity Auto Control If Off is chosen for ISO sensitivity auto control in P, S, A, and M modes, ISO sensitivity will remain fixed at the value selected by the user (0 74). When 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).
  • Page 168: Auto Distortion Control

    DCF, select the appropriate color space manually. For more information, see the documentation provided with the application or device. Nikon Software ViewNX (supplied) and Capture NX 2 (available separately) automatically select the correct color space when opening photographs created with this camera.
  • Page 169: Long Exp. Nr

    Long Exp. NR If On is selected, photographs taken at shutter speeds slower than 8 s will be processed to reduce noise. The time required for processing is roughly equal to the current shutter speed; during processing, “l m” will blink in the viewfinder and photographs can not be taken.
  • Page 170: Active Folder

    (e.g., 101D5000). The camera treats folders with the same name but different folder numbers as the same folder. For example, if the folder NIKON is selected for Active folder, photographs in all folders named NIKON (100NIKON, 101NIKON, 102NIKON, etc.) will be visible when Current is selected for Playback folder (0 146).
  • Page 171: A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings

    A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings To display the Custom Settings menu, press G and select the A (Custom Settings menu) tab. G button Custom Settings are used to customize camera settings Custom Setting groups to suit individual preferences. Main menu A: Reset custom settings (0 154)
  • Page 172: A: Reset Custom Settings

    The following Custom Settings are available: Custom Setting A Reset custom settings a Autofocus a1 AF-area mode a2 Built-in AF-assist illuminator a3 Live view autofocus a4 Rangefinder b Exposure b1 EV steps for exposure cntrl. c Timers/AE lock c1 Shutter-release button AE-L c2 Auto off timers c3 Self-timer c4 Remote on duration...
  • Page 173: A: Autofocus

    a: Autofocus a1: AF-area Mode This option determines how the focus point for autofocus is selected (0 56). a2: Built-in AF-assist Illuminator If On is selected and lighting is poor, the built-in AF-assist illuminator (0 55) will light to assist the focus operation in single-servo AF (AF-S selected for focus mode, or single-servo AF selected in AF-A focus mode) when Auto-area is selected for AF- area mode or when Single point, Dynamic area, or 3D-...
  • Page 174: A4: Rangefinder

    a4: Rangefinder Choose On to use the exposure indicator to determine whether the camera is correctly focused in manual focus mode (0 54; note that this function is not available in shooting mode M, when the exposure indicator instead shows whether the subject is correctly exposed).
  • Page 175: C2: Auto Off Timers

    c2: Auto off Timers This option determines how long the monitor remains on if no operations are performed during menu display and playback (Playback/menus), while photographs are displayed in the monitor after shooting (Image review), and how long the exposure meters, viewfinder, and information display remain on when no operations are performed (Auto meter-off ).
  • Page 176: D: Shooting/Display

    d: Shooting/Display d1: Beep If High (high pitch) or Low (low pitch) is selected, a beep will sound at the selected pitch when the camera focuses in single- servo AF (AF-S or when shooting stationary subjects in AF-A focus mode), while the release timer is counting down in self- timer and delayed remote modes (0 65, 67), or when a photograph is taken in quick-response remote mode (0 67).
  • Page 177: D4: File Number Sequence

    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.
  • Page 178: D6: Date Imprint

    d6: Date Imprint Choose the date information imprinted on photographs as they are taken. Option The time and date do not appear on photographs. a Date The date or date and time are imprinted on photographs taken while this option is in effect. b Date and time New photos are imprinted with a time stamp showing the number of c Date counter...
  • Page 179: D7: Live View Display Options

    Date Counter Pictures taken while this option is in effect are imprinted with the number of days remaining until a future date or the number days elapsed since a past date. Use it to track the growth of a child or count down the days until a birthday or wedding. 02 / 20 .
  • Page 180: E: Bracketing/Flash

    e: Bracketing/Flash e1: Flash Cntrl for Built-in Flash Choose the flash mode for the built-in flash in P, S, A, and M modes. Option 1 TTL Flash output is adjusted automatically in response to shooting conditions. Choose a flash level between Full and 1/32 ( 2 Manual the built-in flash has a Guide Number of 18/59 (m/ft., ISO 200, 20 °C/68 °F).
  • Page 181: F: Controls

    f: Controls f1: Assign E/Fn Button Choose the role played by the Fn (E) button. Option E Self-timer Press the Fn (E) button to toggle self-timer mode on and off (0 69). Press the Fn (E) button and rotate the command dial to select the I Release mode release mode (0 65).
  • Page 182: F2: Assign Ae-L/Af-L Button

    f2: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button Choose the role played by the AE-L/AF-L button. Option B AE/AF lock Focus and exposure lock while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed. C AE lock only Exposure locks while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed. F AF lock only Focus locks while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed.
  • Page 183: B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup

    B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup To display the setup menu, press G and select the B (setup menu) tab. G button The setup menu contains the following options: Option Default Format memory — card LCD brightness 0; Auto dim: on Graphic;...
  • Page 184: Lcd Brightness

    LCD Brightness The LCD brightness menu contains the following options: • LCD brightness: The menu at right will be displayed; press 1 or 3 to choose monitor brightness. Choose higher values for increased brightness, lower values for reduced brightness. • Auto dim: If On is selected, the monitor will gradually dim while shooting information is displayed.
  • Page 185 The “Classic” display is shown below. Camera in normal orientation Programmed auto P Set Shooting mode i auto/ j auto (flash off) ... 28 Scene modes ... 33 P, S, A, and M modes... 80 Help icon ... 221 Flash mode ... 71 Exposure compensation...
  • Page 186: Auto Information Display

    Auto Information Display This option can be set separately for auto and scene modes and for P, S, A, and M modes. If On is selected, the information display will appear after the shutter-release button is pressed halfway; if image review (0 147) is off, it will also be displayed immediately after shooting.
  • Page 187: Time Zone And Date

    Time Zone and Date Change time zones, set the camera clock, choose the date display order, and turn daylight saving time on or off. Option Choose a time zone. The camera clock is automatically set to the time in the Time zone new time zone.
  • Page 188: Auto Image Rotation

    Auto Image Rotation Photographs taken while On is selected contain information on camera orientation, allowing them to be rotated automatically during playback or when viewed in ViewNX or Capture NX 2 (available separately; 0 202). The following orientations are recorded: Landscape (wide) orientation Camera orientation is not recorded when Off is selected.
  • Page 189: Image Dust Off Ref Photo

    Image Dust off Ref Photo Acquire reference data for the Image Dust Off option in Capture NX 2 (available separately; for more information, see the Capture NX 2 manual). Image dust off ref photo is available only when a CPU lens is mounted on the camera.
  • Page 190 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. Note that noise reduction will be performed if the subject is poorly lit, increasing recording times.
  • Page 191: Eye-Fi Upload

    Eye-Fi Upload This option is displayed only when an Eye-Fi memory card (available separately from third-party suppliers) is inserted in the camera. Choose Enable to upload photographs to a preselected destination. Note that pictures will not be uploaded if signal strength is insufficient. Observe all local laws concerning wireless devices and choose Disable where wireless devices are prohibited.
  • Page 192: N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies

    N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies To display the retouch menu, press G and select the N (retouch menu) tab. G button The retouch menu is used to create trimmed or retouched copies of the photographs on the memory card, and is only available when a memory card containing photographs is inserted in the camera.
  • Page 193: Creating Retouched Copies

    Creating Retouched Copies To create a retouched copy: Display a photo full frame (0 116). Retouch The camera may not be able to display or retouch images created with other devices. Press J to display the retouch menu. Monitor off Delay The monitor will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for the length of time selected for Custom Setting c2 (Auto off timers).
  • Page 194: D-Lighting

    D-Lighting D-Lighting brightens shadows, making it ideal for dark or backlit photographs. Press 1 or 3 to choose the amount of correction performed. The effect can be previewed in the edit display. Press J to copy the photograph. Red-Eye Correction This option is used to correct “red-eye”...
  • Page 195: Trim

    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. Increase size of crop Reduce size of crop Change crop aspect ratio Move crop Create copy...
  • Page 196: Monochrome

    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 1 to increase color saturation, 3 to decrease. Press J to create a monochrome copy. Filter Effects Choose from the following filter effects.
  • Page 197: Color Balance

    Option Add a soft filter effect. Use the multi selector to choose Soft from 1 (high), 2 (normal), or 3 (low). 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 (0 118) giving the distribution of tones in the copy.
  • Page 198: Small Picture

    Small Picture Create a small copy of the selected picture. The following sizes are available: Option 640×480 Suited to television playback. 320×240 Suited to display on Web pages. 160×120 Suitable for e-mail. The small picture option can be used during full-frame playback as described on page 175.
  • Page 199 Press J to complete the operation. Press J. A confirmation dialog will be displayed; highlight Yes and press J to copy pictures at the selected size and return to playback. To exit without creating copies, highlight No and press J, or press G to exit to the retouch menu.
  • Page 200: Image Overlay

    Image Overlay Image overlay combines two existing NEF (RAW) photographs to create a single picture that is saved separately from the originals; the results, which make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor, are noticeably better than overlays created in an imaging application.
  • Page 201 Set gain. Highlight Image 1 or Image 2 and optimize exposure for the overlay by pressing 1 or 3 to set gain for the selected image to values between 0.1 and 2.0. Repeat for the second image. The default value is 1.0; selecting 0.5 cuts gain in half, while selecting 2.0 doubles gain.
  • Page 202: Nef (Raw) Processing

    NEF (RAW) Processing Create JPEG copies of NEF (RAW) photographs. Select NEF (RAW) processing. Highlight NEF (RAW) processing in the retouch menu and press 2 to display a picture selection dialog listing only NEF (RAW) images created with this camera. Select a photograph.
  • Page 203: Quick Retouch

    Quick Retouch Create copies with enhanced saturation and contrast. D-Lighting is applied as required to brighten dark or backlit subjects. Press 1 or 3 to choose the amount of enhancement. The effect can be previewed in the edit display. Press J to copy the photograph.
  • Page 204: Color Outline

    Color Outline Create an outline copy of a photograph to use as a base for painting. The effect can be previewed in the edit display. Press J to copy the photograph. Before Perspective Control Create copies that reduce the effects of perspective taken from the base of a tall object.
  • Page 205: Stop-Motion Movie

    Stop-Motion Movie Selecting Stop-motion movie from the retouch menu displays the menu shown in Step 1. Follow the steps below to create a stop-motion movie from photographs taken with the camera. Choose the frame size. Highlight Frame size and press 2 to display a menu of frame size options.
  • Page 206 Select Save. The menu shown at right will be displayed; if no further edits are necessary, highlight Save and press J to proceed to Step 7. To edit the movie, highlight Edit and press J. The following options will be displayed: •...
  • Page 207: Side-By-Side Comparison

    Side-by-Side Comparison Compare retouched copies to the original photographs. This option is only available if the J button is pressed to display the retouch menu when a copy or original is played back full frame. Making a Side-by-Side Comparison Select a picture. Select a retouched copy (shown by a N icon) or a photograph that has been retouched in full- frame playback and press J.
  • Page 208: Recent Settings/O My Menu

    m Recent Settings/O My Menu The camera offers a choice of two custom menus: a recent settings menu consisting of the twenty most recently used settings, added to the top of the menu in the order they are used, and My Menu, a customized list of options from the playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, and retouch menus.
  • Page 209: O My Menu: Creating A Custom Menu

    O My Menu: Creating a Custom Menu The My Menu option can be used to create and edit a customized list of up to 20 options from the playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, and retouch menus. Options can be added, deleted, and reordered as described below. Adding Options to My Menu Select Add items.
  • Page 210 Select Done. Highlight Done and press J. Delete the selected items. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. Press J to delete the selected items. Deleting Items in My Menu To delete the item currently highlighted in My Menu, press the O button. A confirmation dialog will be displayed;...
  • Page 211: Technical Notes

    Compatible Lenses... 194 Compatible CPU Lenses... 194 Compatible Non-CPU Lenses... 195 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights) ... 198 The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)... 198 Other Accessories ... 202 Approved Memory Cards... 203 Attaching a Power Connector and AC Adapter ... 204 Caring for the Camera ...
  • Page 212: Compatible Lenses

    Compatible Lenses Compatible CPU Lenses Autofocus is available with AF-S and AF-I CPU lenses only; autofocus is not supported with other autofocus (AF) lenses. IX NIKKOR lenses can not be used. The features available with compatible CPU lenses are listed below: Lens/accessory AF-S, AF-I NIKKOR Other type G or D AF NIKKOR...
  • Page 213: Compatible Non-Cpu Lenses

    CPU lens can not be used. Some non-CPU lenses can not be used; see “Incompatible Accessories and Non-CPU Lenses, ” below. Lens/accessory AI-, AI-modified NIKKOR or Nikon Series E lenses Medical NIKKOR 120mm f/4 Reflex NIKKOR PC NIKKOR...
  • Page 214 The Built-in Flash The built-in flash can be used with lenses with focal lengths of 18–300 mm, although in some cases the flash may be unable to entirely light the subject at some ranges or focal lengths due to shadows cast by the lens, while lenses that block the subject’s view of the red- eye reduction lamp may interfere with red-eye reduction.
  • Page 215 The size of the area exposed by a 35mm camera is 36 × 24 mm. The size of the area exposed by the D5000, in contrast, is 23.6 × 15.8 mm, meaning that the picture angle of a 35mm camera is approximately 1.5 times that of the D5000. The approximate focal length of lenses for the D5000 in 35mm format can be calculated by multiplying the focal length of the lens by about 1.5.
  • Page 216: Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)

    Use Only Nikon Flash Accessories Use only Nikon flash units. 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.
  • Page 217 CLS-Compatible Flash Units The camera can be used with the following CLS-compatible flash units: • The SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200: Flash unit Feature SB-900 34/111 Guide ISO 100 ISO 200 48/157 1 If a color filter is attached to the SB-900 when AUTO or N (flash) is selected for white balance, the camera will automatically detect the filter and adjust white balance appropriately.
  • Page 218 Refer to the Speedlight manual for detailed instructions. If the flash unit supports CLS, refer to the section on CLS-compatible digital SLR cameras. The D5000 is not included in the “digital SLR” category in the SB-80DX, SB-28DX, and SB-50DX manuals.
  • Page 219 Notes on Optional Flash Units (Continued) The SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400 provide red-eye reduction, while the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SU-800 provide AF-assist illumination with the following restrictions: • SB-900: Active AF-assist illumination is available for all focus points; with 17–135 mm AF lenses, however, autofocus is not available with the focus points shown in gray.
  • Page 220: Other Accessories

    • Nikon filters can be divided into three types: screw-on, slip-in, and rear- interchange. Use Nikon filters; filters manufactured by other makers may interfere with autofocus or the electronic rangefinder. • The D5000 can not be used with linear polarizing filters. Use the C-PL circular polarizing filter instead. Filters •...
  • Page 221: Approved Memory Cards

    Approved Memory Cards The following SD memory cards have been tested and approved for use in the D5000. All cards of the designated make and capacity can be used, regardless of speed.
  • Page 222: Attaching A Power Connector And Ac Adapter

    Attaching a Power Connector and AC Adapter Turn the camera off before attaching an optional power connector and AC adapter. Ready the camera. Open the battery-chamber (q) and power connector (w) covers. Insert the EP-5 power connector. Be sure to insert the connector in the correct orientation. Close the battery-chamber cover.
  • Page 223: Caring For The Camera

    Do not use alcohol, thinner, or other volatile chemicals. 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).
  • Page 224: The Low-Pass Filter

    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 using the Clean image sensor option in the setup menu.
  • Page 225 Cleaning is performed by vibrating the image sensor. If dust can not be fully removed using the options in the Clean image sensor menu, clean the image sensor manually (0 208) or consult a Nikon-authorized service representative. If image sensor cleaning is performed several times in succession, image sensor cleaning may be temporarily disabled to protect the camera’s internal circuitry.
  • Page 226 (0 206), the filter can be cleaned manually 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.
  • Page 227 Nikon takes every possible precaution to prevent foreign matter from coming into contact with the low-pass filter during production and shipping. The D5000, however, is designed to be used with interchangeable lenses, and foreign matter may enter the camera when lenses are removed or exchanged.
  • Page 228: Caring For The Camera And Battery: Cautions

    Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions Do not drop: The product may malfunction if subjected to strong shocks or vibration. Keep dry: This product is not waterproof, and may malfunction if immersed in water or exposed to high levels of humidity. Rusting of the internal mechanism can cause irreparable damage. Avoid sudden changes in temperature: Sudden changes in temperature, such as those that occur when entering or leaving a heated building on a cold day, can cause condensation inside the device.
  • Page 229 Storage: To prevent mold or mildew, store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area. 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.
  • Page 230: Available Settings

    Available Settings The following tables list the settings that can be adjusted in each mode. Modes Available from the Mode Dial Set Picture Control Image quality Image size White balance ISO sensitivity settings Active D-Lighting Auto distortion control Color space Long exp.
  • Page 231 e1: Flash cntrl for built-in flash e2: Auto bracketing set f1: Assign E/Fn button f2: Assign AE-L/AF-L button f3: Reverse dial rotation f4: No memory card? f5: Reverse indicators 1 Reset with two-button reset (0 78). 2 Reset with when mode dial is rotated to new setting. 3 Reset with Custom Setting A (Reset Custom Settings).
  • Page 232 c1: Shutter-release button AE-L c2: Auto off timers c3: Self-timer c4: Remote on duration d1: Beep d2: Viewfinder grid display d3: ISO display d4: File number sequence d5: Exposure delay mode d6: Date imprint d7: Live view display options e1: Flash cntrl for built-in flash e2: Auto bracketing set f1: Assign E/Fn button f2: Assign AE-L/AF-L button...
  • Page 233: Memory Card Capacity

    Memory Card Capacity The following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on a 4 GB SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC card at different image quality and size settings. Image quality Image size NEF + JPEG fine NEF + JPEG normal...
  • Page 234: Exposure Program

    Exposure Program The exposure program for programmed auto is shown in the following graph: f1.4 f2.8 f5.6 The maximum and minimum values for EV vary with ISO sensitivity; the above graph assumes an ISO sensitivity of ISO 200 equivalent. When matrix metering is used, values over 17 EV are reduced to 17 F (lens focal length) ≤...
  • Page 235: Troubleshooting

    Data already recorded to the card will not be affected. In the event of continued malfunction, contact your retailer or Nikon-authorized service representative. Memory card...
  • Page 236: Shooting (All Modes)

    Shooting (All Modes) Camera takes time to turn on: Delete files or folders. Shutter-release disabled: • Memory card is locked, full, or not inserted (0 24, 29, 22). • Built-in flash is charging (0 32). • Camera is not in focus (0 31). •...
  • Page 237: Shooting (P, S, A, M)

    • Adjust Set Picture Control settings (0 106). Can not measure white balance: Subject is too dark or too bright (0 100). Image can not be selected as source for preset white balance: Image was not created with D5000 (0 102).
  • Page 238: Playback

    • Picture is protected: remove protection (0 125). • Memory card is locked (0 24). Can not retouch picture: • Photo can not be further edited with D5000 (0 175). • Picture is a movie: movies can not be retouched (0 174). Can not change print order: •...
  • Page 239: Error Messages

    • Attach non-IX NIKKOR lens. • If non-CPU lens is attached, select mode M. Turn camera off and recharge or replace battery. Use Nikon-approved battery (EN-EL9a). Turn camera off, remove and replace battery, and then turn camera on again. End cleaning and turn camera off and recharge or replace battery.
  • Page 240 Continue shooting; if necessary, increase focus (blinks) distance to prevent shadows from appearing in photograph. Error occurred updating firmware for optional flash unit. Contact Nikon-authorized service representative. The Eye-Fi card is still transmitting data after Disable has been selected for Eye-Fi upload. To —...
  • Page 241 — * See printer manual for more information. Solution Release shutter. If error persists or appears frequently, consult Nikon-authorized service representative. Consult Nikon-authorized service representative. Folder selected for playback contains no images. Insert another memory card or select a different folder.
  • Page 242: Specifications

    Nikon D5000 Digital Camera Type Single-lens reflex digital camera Type Nikon F mount (with AF contacts) Lens mount Effective picture angle Approx. 1.5 × lens focal length (Nikon DX format) Effective pixels 12.3 million Effective pixels Image sensor Image sensor 23.6 ×...
  • Page 243 Lens Compatible lenses • AF-S or AF-I: All functions supported. • Type G or D AF NIKKOR without built-in autofocus motor: All functions except autofocus supported. IX NIKKOR lenses not supported. • Other AF NIKKOR: All functions supported except autofocus and 3D color matrix metering II.
  • Page 244 Can be selected from Auto, Extra high, High, Normal, Low, or Off Focus Autofocus Nikon Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus module with TTL phase detection, 11 focus points (including one cross-type sensor), and AF-assist illuminator (range approx. 0.5–3 m/1 ft. 8 in.–9 ft. 10 in.) –1 –...
  • Page 245 3 s after flash is fired at full output Accessory shoe Standard ISO 518 hot-shoe contact with safety lock Nikon Creative Lighting Advanced Wireless Lighting supported with built-in flash, SB-900, SB-800, or SU-800 as commander; Flash Color Information System (CLS)
  • Page 246 • 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.
  • Page 247 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.
  • Page 248 • 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 D5000 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.
  • Page 249: Battery Life

    • Using a GP-1 GPS unit • Using VR (vibration reduction) mode with VR lenses To ensure that you get the most from rechargeable Nikon EN-EL9a 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.
  • Page 250: Index

    Index Symbols i (Auto mode)... 28 j (Auto (flash off) mode) ... 28 k (Portrait) ... 34 l (Landscape)... 34 p (Child)... 34 m (Sports)... 34 n (Close up) ... 35 o (Night portrait)... 35 r (Night landscape)... 35 s (Party/indoor)... 35 t (Beach/snow)...
  • Page 251 MY MENU ... 190 NEF ... 62 NEF (RAW)...62, 134, 184 NEF (RAW) processing... 184 Neutral (Set Picture Control)... 107 Nikon Transfer ...134, 135 No memory card? ...164 Noise reduction ... 151 Non-CPU lens ... 195 Normal area... 43 Number of shots... 157 Optional flash ...
  • Page 252 Photo info ... 117, 146 PictBridge... 136, 230 Picture angle...197 Picture Controls ... 106, 108 Playback ...39, 116 Playback folder...146 Playback information... 117, 146 Playback menu...146 Playback zoom ...124 Portrait (Set Picture Control)...107 Preset manual (White balance) 96, Press the shutter-release button all the way down ...
  • Page 256 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 Thailand 6MB04911-01 © 2009 Nikon Corporation...

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