Nikon D5100 Reference Manual
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Nikon D5100 Reference Manual

Nikon d5100: user guide
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Summary of Contents for Nikon D5100

  • Page 1 DIGITAL CAMERA Reference Manual...
  • Page 2 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 3 Where to Find It Find what you’re looking for from: The Table of Contents .... 0 iv Error Messages......0 224 The Q&A Index......0 ii Troubleshooting ..... 0 220 The Index ........ 0 237 Introduction 0 25 Basic Photography 0 35 More on Photography (All Modes) P, S, A, and M Modes...
  • Page 4 Q&A Index Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index. Taking Photographs Shooting Modes and Framing Options Is there a quick and easy way to take snapshots i? 26–29 How do I quickly adjust settings for different scenes? 30–34 Can I use special effects during shooting? 115–121...
  • Page 5 Retouching Photographs How do I create retouched copies of photos? 176–191 How do I remove “red-eye”? How do I make JPEG copies of RAW (NEF) photos? Can I overlay two NEF (RAW) photos to make a single image? 181–182 Can I create a copy of a photo that looks like a painting? Can I trim movie footage on the camera or save movie stills? 111–113 Menus and Settings...

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Q&A Index ............................ ii For Your Safety ........................... x Notices............................xii Introduction Getting to Know the Camera....................1 The Camera Body ........................1 The Mode Dial..........................3 The Monitor ..........................4 The Information Display......................5 The Command Dial ........................7 The Viewfinder......................... 10 Camera Menus..........................11 Using Camera Menus ......................
  • Page 7 w Pet Portrait........................33 x Candlelight........................34 y Blossom..........................34 z Autumn Colors .......................34 0 Food ............................34 More on Photography (All Modes) Release Mode ..........................35 Self-Timer and Remote Control Modes................37 Focus ............................39 Focus Mode..........................39 AF-Area Mode ..........................42 Focus Point Selection ......................43 Focus Lock ..........................44 Manual Focus ...........................45 Image Quality and Size ......................47 Image Quality ...........................47...
  • Page 8 Multiple Exposure ........................78 White Balance ...........................81 Fine-Tuning White Balance....................83 Preset Manual .......................... 84 Bracketing ..........................88 Picture Controls........................91 Selecting a Picture Control....................91 Modifying Picture Controls ....................92 Creating Custom Picture Controls..................95 Sharing Custom Picture Controls ..................97 Live View Framing Photographs in the Monitor ................99 Focusing in Live View......................100 Recording and Viewing Movies...
  • Page 9 Deleting Photographs......................133 Full-Frame, Thumbnail, and Calendar Playback ............133 The Playback Menu ......................134 Slide Shows ..........................136 Connections Connecting to a Computer ....................137 Before Connecting the Camera ..................137 Connecting the Camera ....................138 Printing Photographs......................139 Connecting the Printer ......................
  • Page 10 c3: Self-Timer ........................160 c4: Remote on Duration....................161 d: Shooting/Display ......................161 d1: Beep..........................161 d2: ISO Display ........................161 d3: File Number Sequence ...................162 d4: Exposure Delay Mode .....................162 d5: Print Date........................163 e: Bracketing/Flash.......................164 e1: Flash Cntrl for Built-in Flash ..................164 e2: Auto Bracketing Set ....................165 f: Controls ..........................165 f1: Assign E/Fn Button ....................165 f2: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button ..................166...
  • Page 11 Compatible CPU Lenses ....................197 Compatible Non-CPU Lenses ..................199 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)................. 202 The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) ..............203 Other Accessories ......................... 206 Approved Memory Cards....................207 Attaching a Power Connector and AC Adapter ............208 Caring for the Camera......................

  • Page 12: 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 13 • The battery may be hot immediately provided or sold by Nikon for the after use or when the product has been purpose to maintain compliance with used on battery power for an extended product regulations.

  • Page 14: Notices

    Notices • No part of the manuals included with this • Nikon will not be held liable for any product may be reproduced, transmitted, damages resulting from the use of this transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or product. translated into any language in any form, •...
  • Page 15 Nikon may cause harmful interference to radio Corporation may void the user’s authority to communications.
  • Page 16 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 •...
  • Page 17 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 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........3 Infrared receiver (front) ..
  • Page 20 The Camera Body (Continued) A (AE-L/AF-L) Viewfinder eyepiece..... 38 Power connector cover for button ....44, 69, 166 optional power connector Rubber eyecup ...... 38 L (protect) button...132 ..........208 G (menu) button ..11, 149 Command dial......7 Battery-chamber cover latch Two-button reset button ..

  • Page 21: 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 Auto Modes camera settings. Select these modes for simple, point- • P—Programmed auto (0 62) and-shoot photography.

  • Page 22: The Monitor

    The Monitor The monitor can be angled and rotated as shown below. 180° 90° 180° Normal use Fold the monitor against the camera face out. This position is recommended for normal photography. Low-angle shots Frame live view shots with the camera close to the ground.

  • Page 23: The Information Display

    The Information Display Camera settings can be viewed and adjusted in the information display. Press the P button once to view settings, and again to make changes to settings. Highlight items using the multi selector and press J to view options for the highlighted item. P button 9 10 11 12 13 Shooting mode...
  • Page 24 Hiding Shooting Information To turn the monitor off, press the R button. Note that the monitor turns off automatically while the shutter-release button is pressed or if no operations are performed for about 8 s (for information on choosing how long the monitor stays on, see Custom Setting c2 (Auto off timers, 0 160)).

  • Page 25: 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 E button Fn button Mode dial Command dial Choose a scene (h mode; 0 32).
  • Page 26 Choose an aperture (mode A; 0 64). Mode A Command dial Information display Choose an aperture (mode M; 0 65). E button Mode M Command dial Information display Set exposure compensation (mode P, S, or A; 0 70). E button Command dial Information display Mode P, S, or A...
  • Page 27 The role of the Fn button can be selected using Custom Setting f1 (Assign E/Fn button; 0 165), allowing the following settings to be adjusted by pressing the Fn (E) button and rotating the command dial: Fn (E) button Command dial Release mode (0 35) Image quality/size (0 47) ISO sensitivity (0 54)

  • Page 28: The Viewfinder

    The Viewfinder Focus points ..............43 Flash compensation indicator......72 Focus indicator ..........27, 46 Exposure compensation indicator ...... 70 Autoexposure (AE) lock indicator ......69 Auto ISO sensitivity indicator......155 Shutter speed ............ 63, 65 Number of exposures remaining ....... 25 Number of shots remaining before memory Aperture (f-number) ........

  • Page 29: 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. G button Tabs Choose from the following menus: • : Playback (0 149) • : Retouch (0 176) •...

  • Page 30: Using Camera Menus

    Using Camera Menus The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the camera menus. Move cursor up J button: select highlighted item Cancel and return to Select highlighted item or previous menu display sub-menu Move cursor down Follow the steps below to navigate the menus. Display the menus.
  • Page 31 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 32: First Steps

    First Steps Charge the Battery The camera is powered by an EN-EL14 rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied). To maximize shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-24 battery charger before use. About 1 hour and 30 minutes are required to fully recharge the battery when no charge remains.

  • Page 33: 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 in the orientation shown (e), using the battery to keep the orange battery latch pressed to one side.
  • Page 34 If the problem persists, cease use immediately and take battery and charger to your retailer or a Nikon-authorized service representative. Do not attempt to charge a fully-charged battery. Failure to observe this precaution will result in reduced battery performance.

  • Page 35: Attach A Lens

    Attach a Lens Care should be taken to prevent dust from entering the camera when the lens is removed. The lens generally used in this manual for illustrative purposes is an AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR. Focal length mark Focal length scale Mounting mark CPU contacts (0 198)
  • Page 36 3 EV at a focal length of 55 mm (Nikon measurements; effects vary with the user and shooting conditions). To use vibration reduction, slide the VR switch to ON. Vibration...

  • Page 37: 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 38 The Setup Menu Language and date/time settings can be changed at any time using the Language (0 171) and Time zone and date (0 170) options in the setup menu. The Clock Battery The camera clock is powered by an independent, rechargeable power source, which is charged as necessary when the main battery is installed or the camera is powered by an optional EP-5A power connector and EH-5b AC adapter (0 208).

  • Page 39: Insert A Memory Card

    Insert a Memory Card The camera stores pictures on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (available separately; 0 207). 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 40: Format The Memory Card

    Format the Memory Card Memory cards must be formatted before first use or after being 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 (0 137).

  • Page 41: 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. Turn the camera on. Focus the viewfinder.

  • Page 43: Basic Photography

    Basic Photography Battery Level and Card Capacity Before shooting, turn the camera on and check the battery level and number of exposures remaining in the information display or viewfinder (if the monitor is off, press the P button to view the information display; if the monitor does not turn on, the battery is exhausted and must be recharged).

  • Page 44: 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 and j modes, automatic “point-and-shoot” modes in which the majority of settings are controlled by the camera in response to shooting conditions. Turn the camera on. Remove the lens cap and turn the camera on.
  • Page 45 Press the shutter-release button halfway. Press the shutter-release button halfway to focus. The camera will select the focus points automatically. If the subject is poorly lit, the flash may pop up and the AF-assist illuminator may light. Check the indicators in the viewfinder. When the focus operation is complete, the selected focus points will be briefly highlighted, a beep will sound (a beep may not sound if the...
  • Page 46 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: press halfway Shoot: press all the way down Auto Meter-Off The viewfinder and information display will turn off if no operations are performed for about 8 seconds (auto meter-off ), reducing the drain on the battery.
  • Page 47 Using a Zoom Lens Use the zoom ring to zoom in on the subject so that it fills a Zoom in larger area of the frame, or zoom out to increase the area visible in the final photograph (select longer focal lengths Zoom ring on the lens focal length scale to zoom in, shorter focal lengths to zoom out).

  • Page 48: 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 26–29. The Mode Dial The following scenes can be selected with the mode Mode dial...

  • Page 49: Child

    Child Use for snapshots of children. Clothing and background details are vividly rendered, while skin tones remain soft and natural. Sports Fast shutter speeds freeze motion for dynamic sports shots in which the main subject stands out clearly. The built-in flash and AF-assist illuminator turn off.

  • Page 50: Other Scenes

    Other Scenes The following scenes can be selected by rotating the mode dial to h and rotating the command dial until the desired scene appears in the monitor. Mode dial Command dial Monitor Night Portrait Use for a natural balance between the main subject and the background in portraits taken under low light.

  • Page 51: Beach/Snow

    Beach/Snow Capture the brightness of sunlit 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 52: 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 53: More On Photography (All Modes)

    More on Photography (All Modes) Release Mode Choose from the following release modes: Mode Description Single frame: Camera takes one photograph each time shutter-release button is pressed. Continuous: While shutter-release button is held down, camera records up to 4 frames per second.
  • Page 54 Choose a release mode. Highlight a release mode and press J. To return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. 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;...

  • Page 55: Self-Timer And Remote Control Modes

    Self-Timer and Remote Control Modes The self-timer and optional ML-L3 remote control (0 207) 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.
  • Page 56 Before Using the Remote Control Before using the remote control for the first time, remove the clear plastic battery-insulator sheet. Cover the Viewfinder When taking photos without your eye to the DK-20 rubber eyecup DK-5 eyepiece cap viewfinder, remove the DK-20 rubber eyecup (q) and insert the supplied DK-5 eyepiece cap as shown (w).

  • Page 57: Focus

    Focus This section describes the focus options available when photographs are framed in the viewfinder. 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 45) or use focus lock to focus to recompose photographs after focusing (0 44).
  • Page 58 Choose a focus mode. Highlight a focus mode and press J. To return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. Predictive Focus Tracking In AF-C mode or when continuous-servo autofocus is selected in AF-A mode, 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.
  • Page 59 The AF-Assist Illuminator If the subject is poorly lit, the AF-assist illuminator will light AF-assist illuminator automatically to assist the autofocus operation when the shutter- release button is pressed halfway. The AF-assist illuminator will not light: • In live view or during movie recording •...

  • Page 60: Af-Area Mode

    AF-Area Mode Choose how the focus point for autofocus is selected. Note that d (Dynamic-area AF) and f (3D-tracking (11 points)) are not available when AF-S is selected for focus mode. Option Description User selects focus point using multi selector (0 43); camera focuses c Single-point AF on subject in selected focus point only.

  • Page 61: Focus Point Selection

    AF-Area Mode AF-area mode selections made in shooting modes other than P, S, A, or M are reset when another shooting mode is selected. 3D-tracking (11 Points) When the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, the colors in the area surrounding the focus point are stored in the camera.

  • Page 62: Focus Lock

    Focus Lock Focus lock can be used to change the composition after focusing in AF-A, AF-S, and AF-C focus modes (0 39), making it possible to focus on a subject that will not be in a focus point in the final composition. If the camera is unable to focus using autofocus (0 40), you can also focus on another subject at the same distance and then use focus lock to recompose the photograph.

  • Page 63: 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 40). Set the lens focus-mode switch. A-M mode M/A-M switch switch If the lens is equipped with an M/A-M or A-M mode switch, slide the switch to M.
  • Page 64 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 65: 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 (0 218).
  • Page 66 Choose a file type. Highlight an option and press J. To return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. NEF (RAW) Images Note that the option selected for image size does not affect the size of NEF (RAW) images. White balance bracketing (0 88), high dynamic range (HDR, 0 76), and print date (0 163) are not available at image quality settings of NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW)+JPEG.

  • Page 67: Image Size

    Image Size Image size is measured in pixels. Choose from the following options: Image size Size (pixels) Print size (cm/in.) # Large 4,928 × 3,264 41.7 × 27.6/16.4 × 11.4 $ Medium 3,696 × 2,448 31.3 × 20.7/12.3 × 8.2 % Small 2,464 ×...

  • Page 68: 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, w, and g Modes Choose a flash mode (0 51). 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 69: Flash Mode

    Flash Mode The flash modes available vary with shooting mode: i, k, p, n, s, w, g Auto Fill flash Auto+slow sync+ red-eye reduction Njo Auto+red-eye reduction Auto+slow sync P, A S, M Fill flash Fill flash Red-eye reduction Red-eye reduction Slow sync+red-eye reduction Rear-curtain sync Slow sync...
  • Page 70 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 71 Shutter Speeds Available with the Built-in Flash Shutter speed is restricted to the following ranges when the built-in flash is used: Mode Shutter speed Mode Shutter speed i, k, p, s, w, g, P, A – –30 s n, 0 –...

  • Page 72: 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, but the more likely the image is to be affected by noise (randomly-spaced bright pixels, fog, or lines;...
  • Page 73 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. The Shooting Menu ISO sensitivity can also be adjusted using the ISO sensitivity settings option in the shooting menu (0 155).

  • Page 74: Interval Timer Photography

    Interval Timer Photography The camera is equipped to take photographs automatically at preset intervals. Before Shooting Before beginning interval timer photography, take a test shot at current settings and view the results in the monitor. To ensure that shooting starts at the desired time, check that the camera clock is set correctly (0 170).
  • Page 75 Choose the number of intervals. Press 4 or 2 to highlight number of intervals (i.e., the number of times the camera shoots); press 1 or 3 to change. Press 2 to continue. Start shooting. Highlight On and press J (to return to the shooting menu without starting the interval timer, highlight Off and press J).

  • Page 76: Restoring Default Settings

    Restoring Default Settings The camera settings listed below and on page 59 can be restored to default values by holding the G 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 77 Other Settings Option Default Option Default Focus point Center Special effects mode AE/AF lock hold Shooting modes other Vividness than i and j Outlines Flexible program Orientation Landscape HDR (High Dynamic Range) Width Normal HDR mode P, S, A, M Color Multiple exposure Color range...

  • Page 79: P, S, A, And M Modes

    P, S, A, and M Modes Shutter Speed and Aperture P, S, A, and M modes offer different degrees of control over shutter speed and aperture: Mode Description Camera sets shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure. Programmed auto Recommended for snapshots and in other situations in which (0 62) there is little time to adjust camera settings.

  • Page 80: 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 81: 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 82: 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 83: 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. Mode dial Choose aperture and shutter speed. Checking the exposure indicator (see below), adjust shutter speed and aperture.
  • Page 84 Long Time-Exposures (M Mode Only) Select the following shutter speeds for long time-exposures of moving lights, the stars, night scenery, or fireworks. • Bulb (A): The shutter remains open while the shutter- release button is held down. To prevent blur, use a tripod or an optional MC-DC2 remote cord (0 207).
  • Page 85 Open the shutter. Bulb: After focusing, press the shutter-release button on the camera or optional remote cord all the way down. Keep the shutter-release button pressed until the exposure is complete. Time: Press the ML-L3 shutter-release button all the way down. Close the shutter.

  • Page 86: 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). Method Description Produces natural results in most situations. Camera uses 420-pixel RGB sensor to meter a wide area of the frame and set exposure according to tone Matrix distribution, color, composition, and, with type G or D lenses (0 198), distance metering...

  • Page 87: Autoexposure Lock

    Autoexposure Lock Use autoexposure lock to recompose photographs after using M (Center-weighted metering) and N (Spot metering) to meter exposure; note that autoexposure lock is not available in i or j mode. Meter exposure. Position the subject in the center of the frame (center-weighted metering) or the selected focus point (spot metering) and press the shutter-release button halfway to set focus and...

  • Page 88: 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 M (Center-weighted metering) or N (Spot metering) (0 68). Choose from values between –5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure) in increments of EV.
  • Page 89 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. E button Command dial –0.3 EV +2 EV Mode M In mode M, exposure compensation affects only the exposure indicator;...

  • Page 90: 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. Choose from values between –3 EV (darker) and +1 EV (brighter) in increments of EV;...
  • Page 91 +1 EV Optional Flash Units Flash compensation is also available with optional flash units that support the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS; see page 203). The SB-900, SB-800, SB-700, and SB-600 also allow flash compensation to be set using the controls on the flash unit. The flash compensation selected with the optional flash unit is added to the flash compensation selected with the camera.

  • Page 92: Preserving Detail In Highlights And Shadows

    Preserving Detail in Highlights and Shadows 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.
  • Page 93 Choose an option. Highlight Y Auto, Z Extra high, P High, Q Normal, R Low, or ! Off and press J. If Y Auto is selected, the camera will automatically adjust Active D-Lighting according to shooting conditions. To return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway.

  • Page 94: High Dynamic Range (Hdr)

    High Dynamic Range (HDR) High Dynamic Range (HDR) combines two exposures to form a single image that captures a wide range of tones from shadows to highlights, even with high-contrast subjects. HDR is most effective when used with L (Matrix metering) (0 68; with other metering methods, an exposure differential of Auto is equivalent to about 2 EV).
  • Page 95 Choose the exposure differential. To choose the difference in exposure between the two shots, highlight Exposure differential and press 2. The options shown at right will be displayed. Highlight an option and press J. Choose higher values for high-contrast subjects, but note that choosing a value higher than required may not produce the desired results;...

  • Page 96: Multiple Exposure

    Multiple Exposure Follow the steps below to record a series of two or three exposures in a single photograph. Multiple exposures can make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor to produce colors noticeably superior to those in software-generated photographic overlays.
  • Page 97 Choose the number of shots. Highlight Number of shots and press 2. The dialog shown at right will be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to choose the number of exposures that will be combined to form a single photograph and press J. Choose the amount of gain.
  • Page 98 Interrupting Multiple Exposures To interrupt a multiple exposure before the specified number of exposures have been taken, select Off for Multiple exposure > Multiple exposure mode in the shooting menu. A multiple exposure will be created from the exposures that have been recorded to that point.

  • Page 99: 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: Option Description v Auto...
  • Page 100 The Shooting Menu White balance can be selected using the White balance option in the shooting menu (0 151), which also can be used to fine-tune white balance (0 83) or measure a value for preset white balance (0 84). 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 101: 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 102: 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 Description Neutral gray or white object is placed under lighting that will be used in final photo Measure...
  • Page 103 When the camera is ready to measure white balance, a flashing L (D) 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 104 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; 0 160). The default setting is eight seconds. Preset White Balance The camera can store only one value for preset white balance at a time;...
  • Page 105 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 106: Bracketing

    Bracketing Bracketing automatically varies exposure, white balance, or Active D-Lighting (ADL) slightly with each shot, “bracketing” the current value. Choose in situations in which it is difficult to set exposure, white balance, or Active D-Lighting 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 107 Display bracketing options. Highlight the current bracketing setting and press J. Select a bracketing increment. Highlight a bracketing increment and press J. Choose from values between 0.3 and 2 EV (AE bracketing) or 1 to 3 (WB bracketing), or select ADL (ADL bracketing).
  • Page 108 The Bracketing Progress Indicator During AE bracketing, progress is shown by the bracketing indicator in the information display: • v: Camera ready to take first shot. • w: Camera ready to take second shot. • x: Camera ready to take third shot. During ADL bracketing, the amount of Active D-Lighting that will be used with the next shot is underlined in the information display.

  • Page 109: 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 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 110: Modifying Picture Controls

    Modifying Picture Controls Existing preset or custom Picture Controls (0 95) 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 111 In addition, custom Picture Controls can be saved to a memory card for sharing among other cameras of the same model and compatible software (0 97). Optional Picture Controls Additional optional Picture Controls may be available for download from Nikon websites (0 xv).
  • Page 112 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 113: Creating Custom Picture Controls

    Creating Custom Picture Controls The 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. G button Select Save/edit.
  • Page 114 Name the Picture Control. The text-entry dialog shown at right will be Keyboard displayed. By default, new Picture Controls area are named by adding a two-digit number Name area (assigned automatically) to the name of the existing Picture Control; to use the default name, proceed to Step 7.

  • Page 115: Sharing Custom Picture Controls

    Sharing Custom Picture Controls Custom Picture Controls created using the Picture Control Utility available with ViewNX 2 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 117: Live View

    Live View Framing Photographs in the Monitor Follow the steps below to take photographs in live view. Rotate the live view switch. 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 118: Focusing In Live View

    Focusing in Live View Follow the steps below to choose focus and AF-area modes and position the focus point. Choosing a Focus Mode The following focus modes are available in live view: Option Description Single-servo For stationary subjects. Focus locks when shutter-release button is AF-S pressed halfway.
  • Page 119 Choosing an AF-Area Mode In modes other than i and j, the following AF-area modes can be selected in live view: Option Description The camera automatically detects and focuses on portrait subjects 6 Face-priority AF facing the camera. Use for portraits. Use for hand-held shots of landscapes and other non-portrait 7 Wide-area AF subjects.
  • Page 120 Choosing the Focus Point The method for selecting the focus point for autofocus varies with the option selected for AF-area mode (0 101). 6 (face-priority AF): A double yellow border will be displayed when the camera detects a portrait subject Focus facing the camera (if multiple faces, up to a maximum point...
  • Page 121 The Live View Display Item Description 26, 30, The mode currently selected with the mode dial. Select i or j q Shooting mode for automatic scene selection (autofocus only; 0 104). w “No movie” icon Indicates that movies can not be recorded. Audio recording Indicates whether sound is being recorded with movies.
  • Page 122 Automatic Scene Selection (Scene Auto Selector) If live view is selected in i or j mode, the camera will automatically analyze the subject and select the appropriate shooting mode when autofocus is enabled. The selected mode is shown in the monitor. Human portrait subjects Portrait Landscapes and cityscapes...
  • Page 123 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 (0 38). Although they will not appear in the final picture, flicker, 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 124 Using Autofocus in Live View Autofocus is slower in live view and the monitor may brighten or darken while the camera focuses. The camera may be unable to focus in the following situations: • The subject contains lines parallel to the long edge of the frame •...

  • Page 125: Recording And Viewing Movies

    Recording and Viewing Movies Recording Movies Movies can be recorded in live view. Rotate the live view switch. 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 (0 103) indicates that movies can not be recorded.
  • Page 126 End recording. Press the movie-record button again to end recording. Recording will end automatically when the maximum length is reached, the memory card is full, another mode is selected, the lens is removed, or the monitor is closed (closing the monitor does not end recording on televisions or other external displays). Taking Photographs During Movie Recording To end movie recording, take a photograph, and exit to live view, press the shutter-release button all the way down and hold it in this position until the shutter is released.
  • Page 127 Movie Settings Choose movie quality and sound options. • Movie quality: Choose from the following options. The frame rate depends on the option currently selected for Video mode in the setup menu (0 170): Movie quality Maximum Bit rate Quality length Frame size (pixels) Frame rate...

  • Page 128: Viewing Movies

    Viewing Movies Movies are indicated by a 1 icon in full-frame playback (0 123). Press J to start playback. 1 icon Length Current position/total length Volume Guide The following operations can be performed: Description Pause Pause playback. Resume playback when movie is paused or during rewind/ Play advance.

  • Page 129: Editing Movies

    Editing Movies Trim footage to create edited copies of movies or save selected frames as JPEG stills. Option Description Choose start point Create a copy from which the opening footage has been removed. Choose end point Create a copy from which the ending footage has been removed. Save selected frame Save a selected frame as a JPEG still.
  • Page 130 Choose an option. To create a copy that includes the current frame and all following frames, highlight Choose start point in the edit movie menu and press J. Select Choose end point create a copy that includes the current frame and all preceding frames.

  • Page 131: Saving Selected Frames

    Saving Selected Frames To save a copy of a selected frame as a JPEG still: View the movie and choose a frame. Play the movie back as described on page 110. Pause the movie at the frame you intend to copy. Display the retouch menu.

  • Page 133: Special Effects

    Special Effects Special effects can be used when recording images. Shooting with Special Effects The following effects can be selected by rotating the mode dial to q and rotating the command dial until the desired option appears in the monitor. Mode dial Command dial Monitor...

  • Page 134: Night Vision

    Night Vision Use under conditions of darkness to record monochrome images at high ISO sensitivities (with some noise in the form of randomly-spaced bright pixels, fog, or lines). Autofocus is available in live view only; manual focus can be used if the camera is unable to focus.

  • Page 135: Selective Color

    Selective Color All colors other than the selected colors are recorded in black and white. The effect can be chosen during live view (0 120). The built-in flash turns off; use of a tripod is recommended when lighting is poor. Silhouette Silhouette subjects against bright backgrounds.

  • Page 136: Options Available In Live View

    Options Available in Live View g Color Sketch Select live view. Rotate the live view switch to raise the mirror and display the view through the lens in the monitor. Live view switch Adjust options. Press J to display the options shown at right (note that the options temporarily clear from the display during autofocus).
  • Page 137 ( Miniature Effect Select live view. Rotate the live view switch to raise the mirror and display the view through the lens in the monitor. Live view switch Position the focus point. Use the multi selector to position the focus point in the area that will be in focus and then press the shutter-release button halfway to focus (note that the options temporarily clear from the...
  • Page 138 3 Selective Color Select live view. Rotate the live view switch to raise the mirror and display the view through the lens in the monitor. Live view switch Display options. Press J to display selective color options. Select a color. Selected color Frame an object in the white square in the center of the display and press 1 to choose the color of...
  • Page 139 Return to the live view display. Press J to return to live view. During shooting, only objects of the selected hues will be recorded in color; all others will be recorded in black-and-white. To exit live view, rotate the live view switch. The selected settings will continue in effect and will apply to photographs taken using the viewfinder.

  • Page 141: More On Playback

    More on Playback Full-Frame Playback To play photographs back, press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor. K button Description Press 2 to view photographs in order recorded, 4 to view View additional photographs photographs in reverse order.

  • Page 142: Photo Information

    – 1. 3 + 1. 0 AUTO A6, M1 100D5100 0001. JPG N N OR ORMAL AL 100D5100 DSC_0001. JPG NOR ORMAL AL N I KON D5100 15/04/2011 10 4928x3264 1/12 15/04/2011 10 4928x3264 File information None (image only) Overview GPS data MTR , SPD , AP .
  • Page 143 Camera name Frame number/total number of images * Blinking areas indicate highlights. H i g h l i g ht s 1/12 N I KON D5100 RGB Histogram Protect status............132 Retouch indicator ..........177 White balance............81 White balance fine-tuning ....... 83 Preset manual ............
  • Page 144 FLASH TYPE SYNC MODE, ISO sensitivity ............54 TTL-BL , + 1 . 0 Exposure compensation ........70 Focal length ............201 N I KON D5100 1/12 Lens data Focus mode ............. 39, 100 Lens VR (vibration reduction) ......18 Flash type ..............164 Commander mode Flash mode..............51...
  • Page 145 Color space............... 153 SHARPEN ING CONTRAST Picture Control ............91 BR I GHTNESS SATURAT ION Quick adjust ..............93 Original Picture Control ........92 Sharpening..............93 N I KON D5100 1/12 Contrast ................93 Brightness..............93 Saturation ..............93 Filter effects ..............93 ................93 Toning .................93 High ISO noise reduction ........154 Long exposure noise reduction......
  • Page 146 43. 696' Altitude : 35m ALTITUDE : 15/04/2011 TIME(UTC) Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) : 01 : 15 : 29 Camera name Frame number/total number of images * Data for movies are for start of recording. N I KON D5100 1/12...

  • Page 147: Thumbnail Playback

    Thumbnail Playback To display images in “contact sheets” of four, nine, or 72 images, press the W button. Full-frame Calendar playback playback Thumbnail playback Description Display more Press W button to increase the number of images displayed. images Press X button to reduce the number of images displayed. Display fewer When four images are displayed, press to view highlighted images...

  • Page 148: Calendar Playback

    Calendar Playback To view images taken on a selected date, press the W button when 72 images are displayed. Full-frame Calendar playback playback Thumbnail playback Press the W button to toggle between the date list Thumbnail 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 149: 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: Description Press X to zoom in to maximum of approximately 31×...

  • Page 150: 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 22).

  • Page 151: 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 152: 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 Description 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 (0 149).
  • Page 153 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 154: 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 ( 149). Select Slide show. To display the slide show menu, press the G button and select Slide show in the playback menu.

  • Page 155: Connections

    Do not turn the camera off or disconnect the USB cable while transfer is in progress. Windows To visit the Nikon website after installing ViewNX 2, select All Programs > Link to Nikon from the Windows start menu (Internet connection required).

  • Page 156: Connecting The Camera

    Start Transfer Turn the camera off and disconnect the USB cable when transfer ends. Nikon Transfer 2 will close automatically when transfer is complete. Camera Control Pro 2 Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately; 0 206) can be used to control the camera from a computer.

  • Page 157: Printing Photographs

    Printing Photographs To print selected JPEG pictures on a PictBridge printer via a direct USB connection, follow the steps below. Take photographs Select photographs for printing using DPOF print order (0 144) Connect camera to printer (see below) Print photographs one at a Print multiple photographs Create index prints time (0 140)

  • Page 158: 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 (0 124). Press the X button to zoom in on the current frame (0 131;...

  • Page 159: Start Printing

    Option Description 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 160: Printing Multiple Pictures

    Printing Multiple Pictures Display the PictBridge menu. Press the G button in the PictBridge playback display (see Step 3 on page 140). G button Choose an option. Highlight one of the following options and press 2. • Print select: Select pictures for printing. •...
  • Page 161 If you chose Select date in Step 2, press 1 or 3 to highlight a date and press 2 to toggle the highlighted date on or off. To view the pictures taken on the selected date, press W. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures, or press and hold X to view the W button: View current picture full screen.

  • Page 162: Creating A Dpof Print Order: Print Set

    Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set The DPOF print order option in the playback menu is used to create digital “print orders” for PictBridge-compatible printers and devices that support DPOF. Choose Select/set for the DPOF print order item in the playback menu. Press the G button and select DPOF print order in the playback menu.
  • Page 163 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). • Print shooting data: Print shutter speed and aperture on all pictures in print order. •...

  • Page 164: 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 video recorder 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 165: 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 Connect to high-definition device camera...
  • Page 166 HDMI Options The HDMI option in the setup menu controls output resolution and can be used to enable the camera for remote control from devices that support HDMI-CEC (High- Definition Multimedia Interface–Consumer Electronics Control, a standard that allows HDMI devices to be used to control peripherals to which they are connected). Output Resolution Choose the format for images output to the HDMI device.

  • Page 167: Menu Guide

    Menu Guide 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 Default Option Default Delete — Rotate tall Playback folder Current 149 Slide show —...

  • Page 168: Playback Display Options

    Playback Display Options G button D playback menu Choose the information available in the playback photo information display (0 124). Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option, then press 2 to select the option for the photo information display. A M appears next to selected items; to deselect, highlight and press 2.

  • Page 169: 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 Default Option Default Reset shooting menu — Long exposure NR Storage folder —...

  • Page 170: Reset Shooting Menu

    (e.g., 101D5100). 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 Storage folder, photographs in all folders named NIKON (100NIKON, 101NIKON, 102NIKON, etc.) will be visible when Current is selected for Playback folder (0 149).

  • Page 171: 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 2 (supplied) and Capture NX 2 (available separately) automatically select the correct color space when opening photographs created with this camera.

  • Page 172: Long Exposure Nr

    Long Exposure NR G button C shooting menu If On is selected, photographs taken at shutter speeds slower than 1 s will be processed to reduce noise (bright spots, randomly-spaced bright pixels, or fog), increasing the time required to record images by roughly 1.5 to 2 times. During processing, “l m” will blink in the viewfinder and pictures can not be taken (if the camera is turned off before processing is complete, the picture will be saved but noise reduction will not be performed).

  • Page 173: Iso Sensitivity Settings

    ISO Sensitivity Settings G button C shooting menu Adjust ISO sensitivity (0 54). Auto ISO sensitivity control If Off is chosen for Auto ISO sensitivity control in P, S, A, and M modes, ISO sensitivity will remain fixed at the value selected by the user (0 54).

  • Page 174: 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 Reset custom settings (0 157)

  • Page 175: Reset Custom Settings

    The following Custom Settings are available: Custom Setting Default Reset custom settings a Autofocus a1 AF-C priority selection Focus a2 Built-in AF-assist illuminator a3 Rangefinder b Exposure b1 EV steps for exposure cntrl. 1/3 step c Timers/AE lock c1 Shutter-release button AE-L c2 Auto off timers Normal c3 Self-timer...

  • Page 176: A: Autofocus

    a: Autofocus a1: AF-C Priority Selection G button A Custom Settings menu When AF-C is selected for viewfinder photography (0 39), this option controls whether photographs can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed (release priority) or only when the camera is in focus (focus priority). Option Description G Release...

  • Page 177: A3: Rangefinder

    a3: Rangefinder G button A Custom Settings menu Choose On to use the exposure indicator to determine whether the camera is correctly focused in manual focus mode (0 65; note that this function is not available in shooting mode M, when the exposure indicator instead shows whether the subject is correctly exposed).

  • Page 178: C2: Auto Off Timers

    c2: Auto off Timers G button A Custom Settings menu 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 during live view (Live view), and how long the exposure meters, viewfinder, and information display remain on when no operations are performed (Auto meter-off ).

  • Page 179: C4: Remote On Duration

    c4: Remote on Duration G button A Custom Settings menu Choose how long the camera will remain before cancelling the currently selected remote control release mode and restoring the previously selected release mode (0 37). Choose shorter times for longer battery life. d: Shooting/Display d1: Beep G button...

  • Page 180: D3: File Number Sequence

    d3: File Number Sequence G button A Custom Settings menu 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 181: D5: Print Date

    d5: Print Date G button A Custom Settings menu Choose the date information imprinted on photographs as they are taken. Option Description The time and date do not appear on photographs. The date or date and time are imprinted on a Date 15 .

  • Page 182: E: Bracketing/Flash

    e: Bracketing/Flash e1: Flash Cntrl for Built-in Flash G button A Custom Settings menu Choose the flash mode for the built-in flash in P, S, A, and M modes. Option Description 1 TTL Flash output is adjusted automatically in response to shooting conditions. Choose a flash level between Full and 1/32 ( of full power).

  • Page 183: E2: Auto Bracketing Set

    e2: Auto Bracketing Set G button A Custom Settings menu Choose the setting (exposure, white balance, or Active D-Lighting) varied when bracketing is in effect (P, S, A, and M modes only; 0 88). f: Controls f1: Assign E/Fn Button G button A Custom Settings menu Choose the role played by the Fn (E) button.

  • Page 184: F2: Assign Ae-L/Af-L Button

    f2: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button G button A Custom Settings menu Choose the role played by the AE-L/AF-L button. Option Description Focus and exposure lock while the AE-L/AF-L button is AE/AF lock pressed. AE lock Exposure locks while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed. only AE-L/AF-L button AF lock...

  • Page 185: 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 Option Default Format memory card — Time zone and date Monitor brightness Daylight saving time Info display format...

  • Page 186: Monitor Brightness

    Monitor Brightness G button B setup menu Press 1 or 3 to choose monitor brightness. Choose higher values for increased brightness, lower values for reduced brightness. Info Display Format G button B setup menu Choose from the following two formats for the information display (0 5). Classic (0 169) Graphic (0 5) Select a format.
  • Page 187 The “Classic” display is shown below. 22 23 25 26 28 29 30 Shooting mode Active D-Lighting ....74 Auto-area AF indicator ..42 i auto/ 3D-tracking indicator... 42 Bracketing increment...89 j auto (flash off) ....26 Focus point ......43 Manual flash indicator..164 Scene modes ......

  • Page 188: Auto Info Display

    Auto Info Display G button B setup menu If On is selected, the information display will appear after the shutter-release button is pressed halfway; if image review (0 150) is off, it will also be displayed immediately after shooting. Choose On if you find yourself frequently referring to the information display during shooting.

  • Page 189: Language

    Language G button B setup menu Choose a language for camera menus and messages. The following options are available: Option Description Option Description Option Description Czech Dutch Arabic Danish Norwegian Traditional Chinese German Polish Simplified English Portuguese Chinese Spanish Russian Japanese French Finnish...

  • Page 190: Auto Image Rotation

    Auto Image Rotation G button B setup menu Photographs taken while On is selected contain information on camera orientation, allowing them to be rotated automatically during playback or when viewed in ViewNX 2 or Capture NX 2 (available separately; 0 206). The following orientations are recorded: Landscape (wide) orientation Camera rotated 90°...
  • Page 191 • Start: The message shown at right will be displayed and “rEF” will appear in the viewfinder. • Clean sensor and then start: Select this option to clean the image sensor before starting. The message shown at right will be displayed and “rEF”...

  • Page 192: Gps

    G button B setup menu This item is used to adjust settings for optional GP-1 GPS units. The GP-1 can be connected to the camera’s accessory terminal (0 207) 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 193: Eye-Fi Upload

    Eye-Fi Upload G button B setup menu 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.

  • Page 194: 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 options in the retouch menu are used to create trimmed or retouched copies of existing pictures, and are only available when a memory card containing photographs is inserted in the camera.

  • Page 195: Creating Retouched Copies

    Creating Retouched Copies To create a retouched copy: Display retouch options. Highlight the desired item in the retouch menu and press 2. Select a picture. Highlight a picture and press J. Retouch The camera may not be able to display or retouch images created with other devices.

  • Page 196: D-Lighting

    D-Lighting G button N retouch menu D-Lighting brightens shadows, making it ideal for dark or backlit photographs. Before After 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.

  • Page 197: Trim

    Trim G button N retouch menu 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. Description Press the X button to increase the size of the crop. Increase size of crop Reduce size of crop Press the W button to reduce the size of the crop.

  • Page 198: Filter Effects

    Filter Effects G button N retouch menu Choose from the following 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 Skylight picture less blue. The effect can be previewed in the monitor as shown at right.

  • Page 199: Color Balance

    Color Balance G button N retouch menu 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 (0 125) giving the distribution of tones in the copy. Increase amount of green Create retouched copy Increase amount of blue...
  • Page 200 Select the first image. Use the multi selector to highlight the first photograph in the overlay. To view the highlighted photograph full frame, press and hold the X button. Press J to select the highlighted photograph and return to the preview display.

  • Page 201: Nef (Raw) Processing

    NEF (RAW) Processing G button N retouch menu 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.

  • Page 202: Resize

    Resize G button N retouch menu Create small copies of selected photographs. Select Resize. To resize selected images, press G to display the menus and select Resize in the retouch menu. Choose a size. Highlight Choose size and press 2. The options shown at right will be displayed;...

  • Page 203: Quick Retouch

    Viewing Resized Copies Playback zoom may not be available when resized copies are displayed. Image Quality Copies created from NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW) + JPEG photos have an image quality (0 47) of JPEG fine; copies created from JPEG photos have the same image quality as the original. Quick Retouch G button N retouch menu...

  • Page 204: Fisheye

    Fisheye G button N retouch menu Create copies that appear to have been taken with a fisheye lens. Press 2 to increase the effect (this also increases the amount that will be cropped out at the edges of the image), 4 to reduce it.

  • Page 205: Perspective Control

    Perspective Control G button N retouch menu Create copies that reduce the effects of perspective taken from the base of a tall object. Use the multi selector to adjust perspective (note that greater amounts of perspective control result in more of the edges being cropped out). The results can be previewed in the edit display.

  • Page 206: Miniature Effect

    Miniature Effect G button N retouch menu Create a copy that appears to be a photo of a diorama. Works best with photos taken from a high vantage point. Press Description Choose Press W to choose orientation of area that is in focus. orientation If photo is displayed in wide orientation, press 1 or 3 to position frame showing area of copy...

  • Page 207: Selective Color

    Selective Color G button N retouch menu Create a copy in which only selected hues appear in color. Select Selective color. Highlight Selective color in the retouch menu and press 2 to display a picture selection dialog. Select a photograph. Highlight a photograph (to view the highlighted photograph full frame, press and hold the X button).
  • Page 208 Choose the color range. Press 1 or 3 to increase or decrease the range of similar hues that will be included in the final photograph or movie. Choose from values between 1 and 7; note that higher values may include hues from other colors. The effect can be previewed in the edit display.

  • Page 209: 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. 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 210: Recent Settings/O My Menu

    m Recent Settings/O My Menu To display the recent settings menu, press G and select the m (recent settings) tab. G button The recent settings menu lists the twenty most recently used settings, with the most recently-used items first. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select.
  • Page 211 Adding Options to My Menu Select Add items. In My Menu (O), highlight Add items and press 2. Select a menu. Highlight the name of the menu containing the option you wish to add and press 2. Select an item. Highlight the desired menu item and press Position the new item.
  • Page 212 Deleting Options from My Menu Select Remove items. In My Menu (O), highlight Remove items and press 2. Select items. Highlight items and press 2 to select or deselect. Selected items are indicated by a check mark. Select Done. Highlight Done and press J. A confirmation dialog will be displayed.
  • Page 213 Reordering Options in My Menu Select Rank items. In My Menu (O), highlight Rank items and press 2. Select an item. Highlight the item you wish to move and press J. Position the item. Press 1 or 3 to move the item up or down in My Menu and press J.

  • Page 215: Technical Notes

    Technical Notes Read this chapter for information on compatible accessories, cleaning and storing the camera, and what to do if an error message is displayed or you encounter problems using the camera. Compatible Lenses Compatible CPU Lenses This camera supports autofocus with AF-S and AF-I CPU lenses only. AF-S lenses have names beginning with AF-S, AF-I lenses names beginning with AF-I.
  • Page 216 Identifying 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 Aperture ring CPU lens...

  • Page 217: Compatible Non-Cpu Lenses

    “Incompatible Accessories and Non-CPU Lenses, ” below. Camera setting Focus Mode Metering MF (with electronic Other modes L, M, N Lens/accessory rangefinder) AI-, AI-modified NIKKOR or Nikon Series E lenses — — — 2, 3 Medical NIKKOR 120mm f/4 — — —...
  • Page 218 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 219 The size of the area exposed by a 35mm camera is 36 × 24 mm. The size of the area exposed by the D5100, in contrast, is about 23.6 × 15.6 mm, meaning that the angle of view of a 35mm camera is approximately 1.5 times that of the D5100.

  • Page 220: 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 221: The Nikon Creative Lighting System (Cls)

    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. CLS-Compatible Flash Units The camera can be used with the following CLS-compatible flash units: •...
  • Page 222 The following features are available with CLS-compatible flash units: Flash unit Advanced Wireless Lighting Master/commander Remote SB-900 SB-900 SB-900 SB-700 Flash mode/feature SB-800 SB-700 SB-600 SB-400 SB-800 SB-700 SU-800 SB-800 SB-600 SB-R200 i-TTL i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR AA Auto aperture —...
  • Page 223 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 D5100 is not included in the “digital SLR” category in the SB-80DX, SB-28DX, and SB-50DX manuals.

  • Page 224: Other Accessories

    • Filters intended for special-effects photography may interfere with autofocus or the electronic rangefinder. • The D5100 can not be used with linear polarizing filters. Use C-PL or C-PL II circular polarizing filters instead. • NC filters are recommended for protecting the lens.

  • Page 225: Approved Memory Cards

    Approved Memory Cards The following SD memory cards have been tested and approved for use in the D5100. Cards with class 6 or faster write speeds are recommended for movie recording.

  • Page 226: 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-5A power connector. Be sure to insert the connector in the orientation shown, using the connector to keep the orange battery latch pressed to one side.

  • Page 227: 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-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).

  • Page 228: 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 229 Cleaning is performed by vibrating the low-pass filter. If dust can not be fully removed using the options in the Clean image sensor menu, clean the image sensor manually (0 212) 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 230 (0 210), 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 231 Nikon takes every possible precaution to prevent foreign matter from coming into contact with the low-pass filter during production and shipping. The D5100, however, is designed to be used with interchangeable lenses, and foreign matter may enter the camera when lenses are removed or exchanged.

  • Page 232: 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 233 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. Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Replace the terminal cover before putting the battery away.

  • Page 234: Available Settings

    Available Settings The following table lists the settings that can be adjusted in each mode. x, y, k, p, l, m, z, 0, n, o, r, t, 3, 1, S, A, i j P u, v w % g ( 2, 3 Image quality Image size...
  • Page 235 x, y, k, p, l, m, z, 0, n, o, r, t, 3, 1, S, A, i j P u, v w % g ( 2, 3 d1: Beep d2: ISO display d3: File number sequence d4: Exposure delay mode d5: Print date e1: Flash cntrl for built-in flash —...

  • Page 236: Memory Card Capacity

    Memory Card Capacity The following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on an 8 GB Toshiba R95 W80MB/s UHS-I SDHC card at different image quality and size settings. Image quality Image size File size No. of images Buffer capacity Large 23.9 MB...

  • Page 237: Exposure Program (Mode P)

    Exposure Program (Mode P) The exposure program for mode P is shown in the following graph: F (lens focal length) ≤ 55 mm 55mm < F ≤ 135 mm 135 mm < F f1.4 f2.8 f5.6 1000 2000 4000 8000 Shutter speed (seconds) The maximum and minimum values for EV vary with ISO sensitivity;...

  • Page 238: Troubleshooting

    AC adapter (available separately), disconnect and reconnect the adapter and turn the camera on again. If the problem persists after removing the battery from the camera, contact your retailer or Nikon-authorized service representative.
  • Page 239 Photos are out of focus: • AF-S or AF-I lens is not attached: use AF-S or AF-I lens or focus manually. • Camera unable to focus using autofocus (0 40): use manual focus or focus lock (0 44, 45). • Camera is in manual focus mode: focus manually (0 45). Focus does not lock when shutter-release button is pressed halfway: Use AE-L/AF-L button to lock focus when live view is off and AF-C is selected for focus mode or when photographing moving subjects in AF-A mode (0 44).

  • Page 240: Shooting (P, S, A, M)

    Can not measure white balance: Subject is too dark or too bright (0 85). Image can not be selected as source for preset white balance: Image was not created with D5100 (0 87). Effects of Picture Control differ from image to image: A (auto) is selected for sharpening, contrast, or saturation.

  • Page 241: Playback

    Playback NEF (RAW) image is not played back: Photo was taken at image quality of NEF (RAW)+JPEG (0 48). Some pictures are not displayed during playback: Select All for Playback folder. Note that Current is automatically selected after photograph is taken (0 149). “Tall”...

  • Page 242: Error Messages

    (blinks) card write-protect switch to “write” position. • Use approved card. • Format card. If problem persists, card may be damaged. Contact Nikon-authorized service representative. This memory card cannot be • Error creating new folder. Delete files or insert new memory card.
  • Page 243 Indicator Monitor Viewfinder Solution Not available if Eye-Fi card is Eye-Fi card is locked (write protected). Slide card (blinks) write-protect switch to “write” position. locked. This card is not formatted. Format card or turn camera off and insert new (blinks) memory card.
  • Page 244 Indicator Monitor Viewfinder Solution Error occurred updating firmware for optional flash unit. Contact Nikon-authorized service — Flash error (blinks) representative. Release shutter. If error persists or appears Error. Press shutter release frequently, consult Nikon-authorized service — button again. representative. Start-up error. Contact a...

  • Page 245: Specifications

    Nikon D5100 Digital Camera Type Single-lens reflex digital camera Type Nikon F mount (with AF contacts) Lens mount Effective angle of view Approx. 1.5 × lens focal length (Nikon DX format) Effective pixels 16.2 million Effective pixels Image sensor Image sensor 23.6 ×...
  • Page 246 Lens Compatible lenses Autofocus is available with AF-S and AF-I lenses. Autofocus is not available with other type G and D lenses, AF lenses (IX NIKKOR and lenses for the F3AF are not supported), and AI-P lenses. Non-CPU lenses can be used in mode M, but the camera exposure meter will not function.
  • Page 247 Auto, extra high, high, normal, low, off Focus Autofocus Nikon Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus sensor 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.) Detection range –1 –...
  • Page 248 White balance White balance Auto, incandescent, fluorescent (7 types), direct sunlight, flash, cloudy, shade, preset manual, all except preset manual with fine tuning. Live view Lens servo • Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); full-time-servo AF (AF-F) • Manual focus (MF) AF-area mode Face-priority AF, wide-area AF, normal-area AF, subject-tracking AF Autofocus...
  • Page 249 • 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 250 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 251 The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR is for use exclusively with Nikon DX format digital cameras. If the camera is equipped with an AF-ON button, vibration reduction will not be activated when the AF-ON button is pressed.
  • Page 252 Supplied Accessories • 52 mm Snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-52 Optional Accessories • 52 mm screw-on filters • LF-1 and LF-4 rear lens caps • Flexible Lens Pouch CL-0815 • Lens Hood HB-45 (attaches as shown at right) A Note on Wide-Angle Lenses Autofocus may not provide the desired results with wide–...
  • Page 253 • 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 2.3: The D5100 supports Exif (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital Still Cameras) version 2.3, a standard in which information stored with photographs is used for optimal color reproduction when the images are output on Exif-compliant printers.

  • Page 254: 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-EL14 batteries: • Keep the battery contacts clean. Soiled contacts can reduce battery performance. • Use batteries immediately after charging. Batteries will lose their charge if left...

  • Page 255: Index

    Index Symbols Y (Flash compensation) .... 72 Auto ISO sensitivity control..155 E (Exposure compensation)..70 Auto meter-off ....... 28, 160 i (Auto mode) ........26 d (Help)..........11 Auto off timers ......160 j (Auto (flash off ) mode) ....26 I (focus indicator) ..27, 44, 46, 69 Auto-area AF (AF-area mode)..
  • Page 256 Flexible program ......62 Information ......5, 124, 168 Flicker reduction..104, 108, 170 Information display ..5, 168, 170 Date and time......19, 170 Fluorescent (White balance) 81, 82 Infrared receiver ......37 Date counter ........163 Fn button ........9, 165 Interval timer shooting ....56 Date format ......19, 170 f-number ........64, 197 ISO display ........161...
  • Page 257 NEF (RAW) processing....183 camera ..........18 Neutral (Set Picture Control)..91 Television ........146 Reset .........58, 152, 157 Nikon Transfer 2....137, 138 Thumbnail playback ....129 Reset custom settings ....157 Non-CPU lens ........ 199 Time ............ 66 Reset shooting menu ....152 Number of shots......
  • Page 260 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. SB1C01(11) 6MB11311-01...

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