Page 1 DIGITAL CAMERA User's Manual...
Page 2 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: Package Contents
Package Contents Be sure all items listed here were included with your camera. Memory cards are sold separately. • D300S digital camera (0 3) • EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion battery with terminal cover (0 22, 24) • EG-D2 audio/video cable (0 239) •...
Page 4: Symbols And Conventions
Symbols and Conventions To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions are used: This icon marks cautions; information that should be read before use to prevent damage to the camera. This icon marks notes; information that should be read before using the camera.
Page 5: Table Of Contents
Q&A Index Table of Contents Introduction Tutorial Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) Recording and Viewing Movies Image Recording Options Focus Release Mode ISO Sensitivity Exposure White Balance Image Enhancement Flash Photography Other Shooting Options More About Playback Connections Menu Guide Technical Notes...
Page 6: Q&A Index
Q&A Index Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index. New Features Question How do I take high-quality NEF (RAW) photos? Can I use the monitor as a viewfinder? How do I shoot movies? How do I record photographs using two memory cards? Can I control how photos are processed? How do I preserve details in shadows...
Page 7 Can I reverse the exposure indicator? Can I display the menus in a different language? Can I save menu settings for use on a different D300S camera? How do I restore default settings? How do I restore shooting menu defaults?
Page 8 Question How do I get more information about the battery? How do I keep the file number from being reset when I insert a new memory card? How do I reset file numbering to 1? How do I clean the camera or lens? Taking Photographs Question How many more shots can I take with...
Page 9 Question Can I set both shutter speed and aperture manually? Can I make photos brighter or darker? How do I make a time exposure? Can I vary exposure or flash level automatically over a series of photos? Can I create multiple copies of a photo using different white balance settings? Can I vary Active D-Lighting automatically over a series of photos?
Page 10 Question How do I get rid of an unwanted photo? Can I delete several photos at once? Can I zoom in on pictures? Can I protect photos from accidental deletion? Can I hide selected photos? How do I tell if parts of my photos may be overexposed? How do I tell where the camera focused? Can I view photos as they are taken?
Page 11 Viewing or Printing Photographs on Other Devices Question Can I view my photos on TV? Can I view my photos in High Definition? How do I copy photos to my computer? How do I print photographs? Can I print photos without a computer? Can I print the date on my photographs? How do I order professional prints? Optional Accessories...
Page 12: Table Of Contents
Table of Contents Q&A Index ...iv For Your Safety ... xviii Notices...xxi Introduction Overview...2 Getting to Know the Camera...3 Camera Body ... 3 The Control Panel... 8 The Viewfinder Display...10 The Information Display...12 The BM-8 Monitor Cover...16 Tutorial Camera Menus... 18 Using Camera Menus ...19 Help ...21 First Steps ...
Page 13 Deleting Unwanted Photographs... 46 Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) Framing Photographs in the Monitor ... 48 Recording and Viewing Movies Recording Movies... 58 Viewing Movies ... 63 Editing Movies ... 64 Image Recording Options Image Quality... 68 Image Size ... 71 Using Two Memory Cards ...
Page 14 ISO Sensitivity Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually... 96 Auto ISO Sensitivity Control ... 98 Exposure Metering ...102 Exposure Mode...104 e: Programmed Auto ... 106 f: Shutter-Priority Auto ... 108 g: Aperture-Priority Auto ... 109 h: Manual... 111 Long Time-Exposures...114 Autoexposure (AE) Lock...116 Exposure Compensation...118 Bracketing ...120 White Balance...
Page 15 Flash Photography The Built-in Flash ...170 Using the Built-in Flash...171 Flash Modes...175 Flash Compensation...177 FV Lock ...178 Other Shooting Options Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings ...182 Multiple Exposure ...184 Interval Timer Photography ...189 Non-CPU Lenses...195 Using a GPS Unit ...198 More About Playback Full-Frame Playback ...204 Photo Information...207...
Page 16 Printing Multiple Pictures... 233 Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set ... 237 Viewing Photographs on TV...239 Standard Definition Devices... 239 High-Definition Devices... 241 Menu Guide D The Playback Menu: Managing Images...244 Playback Folder... 245 Hide Image ... 245 Display Mode... 247 Copy Image(s) ...
Page 17 b: Metering/Exposure...270 b1: ISO Sensitivity Step Value ...270 b2: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl..270 b3: Exp Comp/Fine Tune ...270 b4: Easy Exposure Compensation ...271 b5: Center-Weighted Area ...272 b6: Fine Tune Optimal Exposure...272 c: Timers/AE Lock ...273 c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L ...273 c2: Auto Meter-off Delay...273 c3: Self-Timer...273 c4: Monitor off Delay...274...
Page 18 f6: Assign Preview Button ... 296 f7: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button ... 296 f8: Customize Command Dials... 297 f9: Release Button to Use Dial... 298 f10: No Memory Card?... 299 f11: Reverse Indicators ... 299 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup...300 Format Memory Card ...
Page 19 Technical Notes Compatible Lenses ...340 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)...347 The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) ...348 Other Accessories...352 Caring for the Camera...357 Storage...357 Cleaning ...357 The Low-Pass Filter...358 “Clean Now” ...358 “Clean at Startup/Shutdown” ...359 Manual Cleaning...361 Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions...364 Defaults ...368 Exposure Program...372 Troubleshooting ...373...
Page 20: 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. The consequences that could result from failure to observe the precautions listed in this section are indicated by the following symbol: This icon marks warnings.
Page 21 Do not use in the presence of flammable Do not use electronic equipment in the presence of flammable gas, as this could result in explosion or fire. Keep out of reach of children Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury. Do not place the strap around the neck of an infant or child Placing the camera strap around...
Page 22 Observe proper precautions when handling the quick charger • Keep dry. Failure to observe this precaution could result in fire or electric shock. • Dust on or near the metal parts of the plug should be removed with a dry cloth. Continued use could result in fire.
Page 23: Notices
Nikon representative in your area (address provided separately). D300S CAUTIONS Modifications The FCC requires the user be notified that any changes or modifications made...
Page 24 Notices for Customers in Canada CAUTION This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Notices for Customers in Europe This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately. The following apply only to users in European countries: •...
Page 25 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 26 Before Taking Important Pictures Before taking pictures on important occasions (such as at weddings or before taking the camera on a trip), take a test shot to ensure that the camera is functioning normally. Nikon will not be held liable for damages or lost profits that may result from product malfunction.
Page 27: Introduction
Introduction This chapter covers information you will need to know before using the camera, including the names of camera parts. Overview... 2 Getting to Know the Camera ... 3 Camera Body ...3 The Control Panel ...8 The Viewfinder Display... 10 The Information Display...
Page 28: Overview
Use Only Nikon Brand Accessories Only Nikon brand accessories certified by Nikon specifically for use with your Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within its operational and safety requirements. T ACCESSORIES COULD DAMAGE YOUR CAMERA AND MAY VOID YOUR...
Page 29: 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. Camera Body Release mode dial...
Page 30 Camera Body (Continued) Built-in flash ... 171 Flash pop-up button ... 171 M (flash mode) button... 171 Y (flash compensation) button... 177 Built-in microphone ...59, 62 Flash sync terminal cover... 347 Ten-pin remote terminal cover... 198, 356 Flash sync terminal... 347 Ten-pin remote terminal ...
Page 31 AF-assist illuminator... 268 Self-timer lamp... 92 Red-eye reduction lamp... 175 Sub-command dial... 297 Depth-of-field preview button... 105, 296 Fn button... 121, 125, 129, 179, 292 Battery-chamber cover... 24 The Microphone and Speaker Do not place the microphone or speaker in close proximity to magnetic devices.
Page 32 Camera Body (Continued) Viewfinder eyepiece... 36 DK-23 rubber eyecup ... 91, 191 O (delete) button ... 46, 220 Q (format) button... 34 K (playback) button ... 45, 204 Monitor...45, 47, 204 G (menu) button ... 18, 243 L (protect) button ...219 ? (help) button ...
Page 33 Diopter adjustment control... 36 Metering selector... 103 A (AE/AF lock) button...80, 81, 296 B (AF-ON) button ... 50, 59, 75 Main command dial ... 297 Multi selector ... 19 Multi selector center button... 19, 59, 63, 291 Memory card slot cover... 31 Focus selector lock...
Page 34: The Control Panel
The Control Panel Color temperature indicator ... 141 Shutter speed ... 108, 112 Exposure compensation value... 118 Flash compensation value... 177 ISO sensitivity ...96 White balance fine-tuning ... 140 Color temperature... 141 White balance preset number... 151 Number of shots in exposure, flash, or white balance bracketing sequence ...
Page 35 Flash compensation indicator... 177 Exposure compensation indicator... 118 FV lock indicator ... 179 CompactFlash (CF) card indicator...32 Secure Digital (SD) card indicator...32 “Clock not set” indicator ...30, 378 Multiple exposure indicator... 186 “Beep” indicator... 275 MB-D10 battery indicator... 280 Battery indicator ...37 Number of exposures remaining ...
Page 36: The Viewfinder Display
The Viewfinder Display...
Page 37 Framing grid (displayed when On is selected for Custom Setting d2) ... 275 Focus points ... 78, 267 AF area brackets ...36, 52 Battery indicator... 37, 275 (display can be turned off with Custom Setting d3) Focus indicator ...43, 84 Metering...
Page 38: The Information Display
The Information Display Shooting information, including shutter speed, aperture, the number of exposures remaining, buffer capacity, and AF-area mode, is displayed in the monitor when the R button is pressed. Turning the Monitor Off To clear shooting information from the monitor, press the R button twice more or press the shutter-release button halfway.
Page 39 Exposure mode ... 104 Flexible program indicator... 107 Flash sync indicator... 281 Shutter speed ... 108, 111 Exposure compensation value... 118 Flash compensation value... 177 Number of shots in exposure, flash, or white balance bracketing sequence ... 121, 125 Focal length (non-CPU lenses) ... 197 Color temperature...
Page 40 The Information Display (Continued) Exposure compensation display ... 118 Flash compensation indicator... 177 Interval timer indicator ... 192 Eye-Fi connection indicator ... 313 GPS connection indicator... 200 Exposure and flash bracketing indicator ... 121 WB bracketing indicator ... 125 ADL bracketing indicator... 129 Metering ...
Page 41 Changing Settings in the Information Display To change settings for the items listed below, press the R button in the information display. Highlight items using the multi selector and press J to view options for the highlighted item. Shooting menu bank... 254 High ISO noise reduction...
Page 42: The Bm-8 Monitor Cover
The BM-8 Monitor Cover A clear plastic cover is provided with the camera to keep the monitor clean and protect it when the camera is not in use. To attach the cover, insert the projection on the top of the cover into the matching indentation above the camera monitor ( ) and press the bottom of the cover...
Page 43: Tutorial
Tutorial This section describes how to use the camera menus, how to ready the camera for use, and how to take your first pictures and play them back. Camera Menus ... 18 Using Camera Menus ... 19 Help ... 21 First Steps ...
Page 44: 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: • D: Playback (0 244) • C: Shooting (0 253) • A: Custom Settings (0 260) If d icon is displayed, help for current item can be viewed by pressing L (Q) button (0 21).
Page 45: Using Camera Menus
Using Camera Menus Menu Controls The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the menus. Multi selector Move cursor up Cancel and return to previous menu Move cursor down Navigating the Menus Follow the steps below to navigate the menus. Display the menus.
Page 46 Select a menu. Press 1 or 3 to select the desired menu. 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.
Page 47: Help
Select the highlighted item. Press J to select the highlighted item. To exit without making a selection, press the G button. Note the following points: • Menu items that are displayed in gray are not currently available. • While pressing 2 or the center of the multi selector generally has the same effect as pressing J, there are some cases in which selection can only be made by pressing J.
Page 48: First Steps
First Steps Charge the Battery The D300S is powered by an EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied). To maximize shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-18a quick charger before use. About two and a quarter hours are required to fully recharge the battery when no charge remains.
Page 49 Insert the battery. Insert the battery into the charger. The CHARGE lamp will blink while the battery charges. Remove the battery when charging is complete. Charging is complete when the CHARGE lamp stops blinking. Remove the battery and unplug the charger. Battery Charging charging...
Page 50: 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 51 Use the charger with compatible batteries only. Unplug when not in use. Incompatible Batteries The D300S can not be used with EN-EL3 or EN-EL3a rechargeable Li-ion batteries for the D100, D70 series, or D50 or with the MS-D70 CR2 battery holder.
Page 52: 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 VR Zoom-Nikkor 18–200mm f/3.5–5.6G IF-ED lens is used in this manual for illustrative purposes. Focal length scale Lens cap Zoom ring Turn the camera off.
Page 53 Attach the lens. Keeping the mounting index on the lens aligned with the mounting index on the camera body, position the lens in the camera’s bayonet mount (q). Being careful not to press the lens-release button, rotate the lens counter- clockwise until it clicks into place (w).
Page 54: Basic Setup
Basic Setup The language option in the setup menu is automatically highlighted the first time menus are displayed. Choose a language and set the time and date. Note that if the time and date are not set, B will blink in the monitor and the time and date recorded with photographs will be incorrect.
Page 55 Select Time zone and date. Select Time zone and date and press 2. Set time zone. Select Time zone and press 2. Press 4 or 2 to highlight the local time zone (the UTC field shows the difference between the selected time zone and Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC, in hours) and press J.
Page 56 Set date format. Select Date format and press 2. Press 1 or 3 to choose the order in which the year, month, and day will be displayed and press J. Exit to shooting mode. Press the shutter-release button halfway to exit to shooting mode. 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...
Page 57: Insert A Memory Card
Insert a Memory Card The camera has two memory card slots, one for Type I CompactFlash memory cards (Type II cards and microdrives can not be used) and another for Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (memory cards are available separately; 0 393). The following section describes how to insert and format a memory card.
Page 58 SD memory cards: Holding the card as shown, slide it into the SD card slot until it clicks into place. The green access lamp will light briefly. Inserting Memory Cards Inserting memory cards upside down or backwards could damage the camera or the card. Check to be sure that the card is in the correct orientation.
Page 59 Removing Memory Cards Turn the camera off. Confirm that the access lamp is off and turn the camera off. Remove the memory card. CompactFlash memory cards: Open the memory card slot cover and press the eject button (q) to partially eject the card (w).
Page 60: Format The Memory Card
Format the Memory Card Memory cards must be formatted before first use or after being used or formatted in other devices. 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 (0 224).
Page 61 When formatting is complete, the control panel and viewfinder will show the number of photographs that can be recorded at current settings. Memory Cards • Memory cards may be hot after use. Observe due caution when removing memory cards from the camera. •...
Page 62: 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 shooting. Turn the camera on. Remove the lens cap and turn the camera on. Focus the viewfinder.
Page 63: Basic Photography And Playback
Basic Photography and Playback Turn the Camera On Before taking photographs, turn the camera on and check the battery level and number of exposures remaining as described below. Turn the camera on. Turn the camera on. The control panel will turn on and the display in the viewfinder will light.
Page 64 Check the number of exposures remaining. The exposure-count displays in the control panel and viewfinder show the number of photographs that can be taken at current settings (if two memory cards are inserted, the displays show the space available on the card in the primary slot;...
Page 65 LCD Illuminators Rotating the power switch toward D activates the exposure meters and the control panel backlight (LCD illuminator), allowing the display to be read in the dark. After the power switch is released, the illuminators will remain lit for six seconds while the exposure meters are active or until the shutter is released or the power switch is rotated toward D again.
Page 66: Adjust Camera Settings
Adjust Camera Settings This tutorial describes the basic steps involved in taking photos. Choose exposure mode e. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial to select exposure mode e. The camera will automatically adjust shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure in most situations.
Page 67 Choose single-servo autofocus. Rotate the focus-mode selector until it clicks into place pointing to S (single-servo autofocus). At this setting, the camera will automatically focus on the subject in the selected focus point when the shutter- release button is pressed halfway.
Page 68: Ready The Camera
Ready the Camera When framing photographs in the viewfinder, hold the handgrip in your right hand and cradle the camera body or lens with your left. Keep your elbows propped lightly against your torso for support and place one foot half a pace ahead of the other to keep you upper body stable.
Page 69: Focus And Shoot
Focus and Shoot Press the shutter- release button halfway to focus (0 44). At default settings, the camera will focus on the subject in the center focus point. Frame a photo in the viewfinder with the main subject positioned in the center focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway.
Page 70 Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to shoot. Smoothly press the shutter- release-button the rest of the way down to take the picture. While the photograph is being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the card slot cover will light.
Page 71: Viewing Photographs
See page 217 for information on choosing a memory card slot. K button 1 125 AUTO 0, 0 20100D300S 10DSC 15/ 04/ 2009 10 : 15 : 29 1 / 10 N I KON D300S F5 . 6 35mm NOR ORMAL AL 0001. JPG 4288x2848...
Page 72: 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 in “Viewing Photographs” on the previous page. Delete the photograph.
Page 73: 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 ... 48...
Page 74: Framing Photographs In The Monitor
Framing Photographs in the Monitor Press the a button to frame pictures in the monitor. The following options are available: • Tripod (h): Choose when the camera is mounted on a tripod (0 49). You can zoom in on the image displayed in the monitor for precise focus, making this option suitable for static subjects.
Page 75 Tripod Mode (h) Frame a picture in the viewfinder. With the camera mounted on a tripod or resting on a stable, level surface, frame the subject in the viewfinder. Choose Tripod for Live view mode. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight Tripod in the Live view mode menu and press J.
Page 76 Focus. Autofocus (focus mode S or C): In tripod mode, the focus point for contrast-detect autofocus can be moved to any point in the frame using the multi selector. To focus using contrast-detect autofocus, press the B button. The focus point will blink green and the monitor may brighten while the camera focuses.
Page 77: Take The Picture
Take the picture. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to take the picture. The monitor turns off during shooting. End live view. Press the a button to end live view. Focusing with Contrast-Detect Autofocus Contrast-detect autofocus will take longer than normal (phase- detection) autofocus.
Page 78 Hand-Held Mode (g) Choose Hand-held for Live view mode. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight Hand-held in the Live view mode menu and press J. Press the a button. The mirror will be raised and the view through the lens will be displayed in the camera monitor instead of the...
Page 79 Focus. Autofocus (focus mode S or C): Press the shutter-release button halfway or press the B button. The camera will focus normally and set exposure. Note that the mirror will click back into place while either button is pressed, temporarily interrupting live view. Live view is restored when the button is released.
Page 80 No Picture After shooting, play the picture back in the monitor to ensure that the photograph has been recorded. In hand held mode, note that the sound the mirror makes when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway or the B button is pressed can be mistaken for the sound of the shutter, and that if single-servo AF is used, a photograph will only be recorded if the camera is able to focus.
Page 81 The Information Display To hide or display indicators in the monitor in live view mode, press the R button. Information on AUTO NORM 1 2 0 1 2 0 m 0 0 s 2 0 m m 0 0 s AUTO NORM 1 1 2 0...
Page 82 Monitor Brightness Monitor brightness can be adjusted by pressing the K and 2 button. The brightness indicator at the right of the display will turn yellow; keeping the K button pressed, press 1 or 3 to adjust brightness (note that monitor brightness has no effect on pictures taken in live view mode).
Page 83: Recording And Viewing Movies
Recording and Viewing Movies This chapter describes how to record movies in live view. Recording Movies... 58 Viewing Movies... 63 Editing Movies ... 64...
Page 84: Recording Movies
Recording Movies Movies can be recorded at 24 fps in live view mode. Before recording, choose a Picture Control (0 154) and color space (0 166). Choose a live view mode. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight an option in the Live view mode menu and press J: •...
Page 85 Focus. Before shooting, frame the opening shot and either press the B button (Tripod) or press the shutter-release button halfway (Hand-held) to focus on your subject. In hand- held mode, autofocus is not available after recording begins. Start recording. Press the center of the multi selector to start recording.
Page 86 End recording. Press the center of the multi selector again to end recording (to end recording and take a still picture in live view, press the shutter-release button all the way down). Recording will end automatically when the maximum size is reached or the memory card is full.
Page 87 Recording Movies Banding or distortion may be visible in the monitor and in the final movie under fluorescent, mercury vapor, or sodium lamps or if the camera is panned horizontally or an object moves at high speed through frame. Bright light sources may leave after-images when the camera is panned.
Page 88 Movie Settings Adjust movie settings before recording. Select Movie settings. Press the G button to display the menus. Highlight Movie settings in the shooting menu and press 2. Choose movie options. To choose a frame size, highlight Quality and press 2. Highlight one of the following options and press J to select: Option...
Page 89: Viewing Movies
Viewing Movies Movies are indicated by a 1 icon in full-frame playback (0204). Press the center of the multi selector to start playback. 1 icon Length The following operations can be performed: 3/J Pause playback. Pause Play Rewind/ advance Adjust volume X/W Press X to increase volume, W to decrease. Trim movie Resume shooting...
Page 90: Editing Movies
Editing Movies Trim unwanted footage to create edited copies of movies. Display retouch options. Display a movie in full-frame playback and press J to display retouch options. Select Edit movie. Highlight Edit movie and press Choose an option. To trim the opening footage from the copy, highlight Choose start point and press J.
Page 91 Save the copy. Select Yes and press J to save the edited copy. If necessary, the copy can be trimmed as described above to remove additional footage. Edited copies are indicated by a 9 icon in full-frame playback. Editing Movies Movies must be at least two seconds long.
Page 93: Image Recording Options
Image Recording Options This section describes how to choose image quality and size. Image Quality... 68 Image Size... 71 Using Two Memory Cards... 72...
Page 94: Image Quality
Image Quality The D300S supports the following image quality options. See page 394 for information on the number of pictures that can be stored at different image quality and size settings. Option File type NEF (RAW) TIFF TIFF (RGB) (RGB)
Page 95: Control Panel
Image quality is set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel. NEF (RAW) Once transferred to a computer, NEF (RAW) images can only be viewed using ViewNX (available on the supplied Software Suite CD) or Capture NX 2 (available separately;...
Page 96 The following options can be accessed from the shooting menu. Press the G button to display the menus, highlight the desired option and press 2. JPEG Compression Choose the type of compression for JPEG images. Option O Size priority Optimal quality NEF (RAW) Recording >...
Page 97: Image Size
Image Size Image size is measured in pixels. Choose from the following options: Option Size (pixels) 4,288 × 2,848 3,216 × 2,136 2,144 × 1,424 * Print size in inches equals image size in pixels divided by printer resolution in dots per inch (dpi;...
Page 98: Using Two Memory Cards
Using Two Memory Cards When two memory cards are inserted in the camera, you can choose one as the primary card using the Primary slot selection item in the shooting menu. Select CF card slot to designate the card in the CompactFlash card slot as the primary card, SD card slot to choose the SD memory card.
Page 99: Focus
Focus – Controlling How the Camera Focuses This section describes the options that control how your camera focuses. Focus Mode ... 74 AF-Area Mode ... 76 Focus Point Selection ... 78 Focus Lock ... 80 Manual Focus ... 83...
Page 100: Focus Mode
Focus Mode Focus mode is controlled by the focus-mode selector on the front of the camera. There are two autofocus (AF) modes, in which the camera focuses automatically when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, and one manual focus mode, in which focus must be adjusted manually using the focusing ring on the lens: Option Camera focuses when shutter-release button is pressed...
Page 101: The B Button
The B Button For the purpose of focusing the camera, pressing the B button has the same effect as pressing the shutter-release button halfway; note, however, that vibration reduction (available with VR lenses) can only be engaged by pressing the shutter-release button halfway. Predictive Focus Tracking In continuous-servo AF, the camera will initiate predictive focus tracking if the subject moves toward or away from the camera while the shutter-...
Page 102: Af-Area Mode
AF-Area Mode AF-area mode determines how the focus point is selected in autofocus mode (0 74). To select the AF-area mode, rotate the AF-area mode selector. The following options are available: Mode User selects focus point manually; camera focuses on subject in selected focus point only.
Page 103 AF-Area Mode AF-area mode is shown in the control panel. AF-area mode K Single-point AF Custom Setting a3 (Dynamic AF area, 0 264) Dynamic- area AF H Auto-area AF * Only active focus point is displayed in the viewfinder. Remaining focus points provide information to assist focus operation.
Page 104: Focus Point Selection
Focus Point Selection The D300S offers a choice of 51 focus points that together cover a wide area of the frame. The focus point can be selected manually, allowing photographs to be composed with the main subject positioned almost anywhere in the frame (single-point and dynamic- area AF), or automatically (auto-area AF;...
Page 105 See Also For information on choosing when the focus point is illuminated, see Custom Setting a6 (AF point illumination, 0 266). For information on setting focus-point selection to “wrap around, ” see Custom Setting a7 (Focus point wrap-around, 0 267). For information on choosing the number of focus points that can be selected using the multi selector, see Custom Setting a8 (AF point selection, 0 267).
Page 106: Focus Lock
Focus Lock Focus lock can be used to change the composition after focusing, making it possible to focus on a subject that will not be in a focus point in the final composition. It can also be used when the autofocus system is unable to focus (0 82).
Page 107 Continuous-servo AF Press the AE-L/AF-L button to lock both focus and exposure (an AE-L icon appears in the viewfinder, see page 116). Focus and exposure will remain locked while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed, even if you later remove your finger from the shutter-release button.
Page 108: Getting Good Results With Autofocus
Getting Good Results with Autofocus Autofocus does not perform well under the conditions listed below. The shutter release may be disabled if the camera is unable to focus under these conditions, or the in-focus indicator ( ) may be displayed and the camera may sound a beep, allowing the shutter to be released even when the subject is not in focus.
Page 109: Manual Focus
Manual Focus Manual focus is available for lenses that do not support autofocus (non-AF NIKKOR lenses) or when the autofocus does not produce the desired results (0 82). • AF-S lenses: Set the lens focus mode switch to M. • AF lenses: Set the lens focus mode switch (if present) and camera focus-mode selector to M.
Page 110 The Electronic Rangefinder If the lens has a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, the viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm whether the subject in the selected focus point is in focus (the focus point can be selected from any of the 51 focus points).
Page 111: Release Mode
Release Mode – Single Frame, Continuous, Quiet Shutter-Release, Self-Timer, or Mirror Up Release mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time (with or without reduced camera noise), in a continuous sequence, with a timed shutter-release delay, or with the mirror raised to enhance shutter response and minimize vibration.
Page 112: Choosing A Release Mode
Choosing a Release Mode The camera supports the following release modes: Mode Camera takes one photograph each time shutter-release Single frame button is pressed. While shutter-release button is held down, camera records Continuous 1–7 frames per second. Custom Setting d5 (CL mode shooting speed, 0 276). low speed While shutter-release button is held down, camera records Continuous...
Page 113 To choose a release mode, press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to the desired setting. Release mode dial lock release Release mode dial...
Page 114: Continuous Mode
Continuous Mode To take pictures in C low speed) modes: Select C or C Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to C Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. While the shutter-release button is pressed all the way down, pictures will be taken at about 7 fps in continuous high speed mode, or at the frame rate selected for Custom Setting d5 (CL mode shooting speed, 0 276) in...
Page 115 Power Source and Frame Rate The frame advance rate varies with the power source used. Power source Battery (EN-EL3e) AC adapter MB-D10 battery pack with EN-EL3e battery MB-D10 battery pack with EN-EL4a battery MB-D10 battery pack with AA-size batteries 1 Average frame rate with continuous-servo AF, manual or shutter-priority auto exposure, a shutter speed of and memory remaining in memory buffer.
Page 116 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 117: Self-Timer Mode
Self-Timer Mode The self-timer can be used to reduce camera shake or for self- portraits. To use the self-timer, mount the camera on a tripod (recommended) or place the camera on a stable, level surface and follow the steps below: Select self-timer mode.
Page 118 Start the timer. Press the shutter-release button all the way down to start the timer. The self-timer lamp (AF-assist illuminator) 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 more rapid.
Page 119: Mirror Up Mode
Mirror up Mode Choose this mode to minimize blurring caused by camera movement when the mirror is raised. Use of a tripod is recommended. Select mirror up mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to M Raise the mirror.
Page 121: Iso Sensitivity
ISO Sensitivity – Reacting Faster to Light “ISO sensitivity” is the digital equivalent of film speed. The higher the ISO sensitivity, the less light needed to make an exposure, allowing higher shutter speeds or smaller apertures. This chapter describes how to set ISO sensitivity manually and automatically. Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually...
Page 122: Choosing Iso Sensitivity Manually
Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually ISO sensitivity can be set to values between ISO 200 and ISO 3200 in steps equivalent to EV. Settings of from about 0.3 to 1 EV below ISO 200 and 0.3 to 1 EV above ISO 3200 are also available for special situations.
Page 123 The ISO Sensitivity Menu ISO sensitivity can also be adjusted using the ISO sensitivity option in the shooting menu (0 253). ISO Sensitivity Settings The settings available depend on the option selected for Custom Setting b1 (ISO sensitivity step value, 0 270). Custom Setting b1 (ISO sensitivity step value) 1/3 step...
Page 124: Auto Iso Sensitivity Control
Auto ISO Sensitivity Control If On is selected for ISO sensitivity settings > ISO sensitivity auto control in the shooting menu, ISO sensitivity will automatically be adjusted if optimal exposure can not be achieved at the value selected by the user (ISO sensitivity is adjusted appropriately when the flash is used).
Page 125 adjusted if underexposure would result at the shutter speed selected for Minimum shutter speed ( shutter speeds may be used if optimum exposure can not be achieved at the ISO sensitivity value selected for Maximum sensitivity. Press J to exit when settings are complete. When On is selected, the control panel and viewfinder show ISO-AUTO.
Page 127: Exposure
Exposure – Controlling How the Camera Sets Exposure This section describes the options available to control exposure, including metering, exposure mode, exposure lock, exposure compensation, and bracketing. Metering ... 102 Exposure Mode... 104 e: Programmed Auto...106 f: Shutter-Priority Auto ...108 g: Aperture-Priority Auto ...109 h: Manual...111 Long Time-Exposures ...
Page 128: Metering
Metering Metering determines how the camera sets exposure. The following options are available: Method Recommended in most situations. Camera meters a wide area of the frame and sets exposure according to distribution 3D color of brightness, color, distance, and composition for natural matrix II results.
Page 129 To choose a metering method, rotate the metering selector until the desired mode is displayed. Matrix Metering The metering method used is determined by the type of lens attached: • Type G and D lenses: Range information is included when determining exposure (3D color matrix metering II).
Page 130: Exposure Mode
Exposure Mode Exposure mode determines how the camera sets shutter speed and aperture when adjusting exposure. Four modes are available: programmed auto (e), shutter-priority auto (f ), aperture-priority auto (g), and manual (h). Mode Programmed auto (0 106) Shutter-priority auto (0 108) Aperture- priority auto...
Page 131 To choose the exposure mode, press the I button and rotate the main command dial until the desired mode is displayed in the control panel or viewfinder. Depth-of-Field Preview To preview the effects of aperture, press and hold the depth-of-field preview button. The lens will be stopped down to the aperture value selected by the camera (modes e and f ) or the value chosen by the user (modes g and h),...
Page 132: E: Programmed Auto
e: Programmed Auto In this mode, the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture according to a built-in program to ensure optimal exposure in most situations. This mode is recommended for snapshots and other situations in which you want to leave the camera in charge of shutter speed and aperture.
Page 133 Flexible Program In exposure mode e, different combinations of shutter speed and aperture can be selected by rotating the main command dial while the exposure meters are on (“flexible program”). Rotate the command dial to the right for large apertures (small f-numbers) that blur background details or fast shutter speeds that “freeze”...
Page 134: F: Shutter-Priority Auto
f: Shutter-Priority Auto In shutter-priority auto, you choose the shutter speed while the camera automatically selects the aperture that will produce the optimal exposure. To take photographs in shutter-priority auto: Select exposure mode f. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until f is displayed in the viewfinder and control...
Page 135: G: Aperture-Priority Auto
g: Aperture-Priority Auto In aperture-priority auto, you choose the aperture while the camera automatically selects the shutter speed that will produce the optimal exposure. To take photographs in aperture-priority auto: Select exposure mode g. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until g is displayed in the viewfinder and control...
Page 136 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Non-CPU Lenses (0 342) Use the lens aperture ring to adjust aperture. If the maximum aperture of the lens has been specified using the Non-CPU lens data item in setup menu (0 196) when a non-CPU lens is attached, the current f-number will be displayed in the viewfinder and control panel, rounded to the nearest full stop.
Page 137: H: Manual
h: Manual In manual exposure mode, you control both shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in manual exposure mode: Select exposure mode h. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until h is displayed in the viewfinder and control panel.
Page 138 Choose aperture and shutter speed. While the exposure meters are on, rotate the main command dial to choose a shutter speed, and the sub-command dial to set aperture. Shutter speed can be set “p” or to values between 30 s and indefinitely for a long time-exposure (A, 0 114).
Page 139 Exposure Indicators The exposure indicators in the control panel and viewfinder show whether the photograph would be under- or over-exposed at current settings (if Lo or Hi is displayed in f or g modes, the indicators show the amount of under- or over-exposure). Depending on the option chosen for Custom Setting b2 (EV steps for exposure cntrl., 0 270), the amount of under- or over-exposure is shown in increments of EV, or 1 EV.
Page 140: Long Time-Exposures
Long Time-Exposures At a shutter speed of A, the shutter will remain open while the shutter-release button is held down. Use for long time-exposure photographs of moving lights, the stars, night scenery, or fireworks. A tripod and optional remote cord (0 356) are recommended to prevent blur.
Page 141 Choose a shutter speed. While the exposure meters are active, rotate the main command dial until “A” appears in the shutter-speed displays. The exposure indicators do not appear when “A“ is selected. Press the shutter-release button all the way down. Press the shutter-release button on the camera or remote cord all the way down.
Page 142: Autoexposure (Ae) Lock
Autoexposure (AE) Lock Use autoexposure lock to recompose photographs after metering exposure. Select center-weighted or spot metering (0 102). Matrix metering will not produce the desired results with autoexposure lock. If using center-weighted metering, select the center focus point with the multi selector (0 78).
Page 143 Recompose the photograph. Keeping the AE-L/AF-L button pressed, recompose the photograph and shoot. Metered Area In spot metering, exposure will be locked at the value metered in a 3-mm (0.12 in.) circle centered on the selected focus point. In center- weighted metering, exposure will be locked at the value metered in an 8-mm circle in the center of the viewfinder.
Page 144: Exposure Compensation
Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker. In exposure mode h, only the exposure information shown in the exposure indicator is affected; shutter speed and aperture do not change.
Page 145 Exposure compensation can be set to values between –5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure) in increments of In general, choose positive values to make the subject brighter, negative values to make it darker. –1 EV At values other than ±0.0, the 0 at the center of the exposure indicators will flash and a E icon will be displayed in the control panel and viewfinder after you release the E...
Page 146: Bracketing
Bracketing Bracketing automatically varies exposure, flash level, Active D-Lighting (ADL), 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 147 Choose the number of shots. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the main command dial to choose the number of shots in the bracketing sequence. The number of shots is shown in the control panel. Fn button At settings other than zero, a M icon and exposure and flash bracketing indicator will be displayed in the control panel, and a E icon will blink in...
Page 148 Select an exposure increment. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the exposure increment. Fn button At default settings, the size of the increment can be chosen from , and 1 EV. The bracketing programs with an increment of Control panel display See Also...
Page 149: Z Exposure 0
Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. The camera will vary exposure and/or flash level shot-by-shot according to the bracketing program selected. Modifications to exposure are added to those made with exposure compensation (see page 118), making it possible to achieve exposure compensation values of more than 5 EV.
Page 150 Canceling Bracketing To cancel bracketing, press the Fn button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequence is zero ( panel. The program last in effect will be restored the next time bracketing is activated. Bracketing can also be cancelled by performing a two-button reset (0 182), although in this case the bracketing program will not be restored the next time bracketing is activated.
Page 151 White Balance Bracketing The camera creates multiple copies of each photograph, each with a different white balance. For more information on white balance, see page 133. Select white balance bracketing. Choose WB bracketing for Custom Setting e5 Auto bracketing set. Choose the number of shots.
Page 152 Select a white balance increment. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the white balance adjustment. Each increment is roughly equivalent to 5 mired. Fn button Choose from increments of 1 (5 mired), 2 (10 mired), or 3 (15 mired).
Page 153 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Each shot will be processed to create the number of copies specified in the bracketing program, and each copy will have a different white balance. Modifications to white balance are added to the white balance adjustment made with white balance fine-tuning.
Page 154 Canceling Bracketing To cancel bracketing, press the Fn button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequence is zero (r) and W is no longer displayed in the control panel. The program last in effect will be restored the next time bracketing is activated.
Page 155 ADL Bracketing The camera varies Active D-Lighting over a series of exposures. For more information on Active D-Lighting, see page 164. Select ADL bracketing. Choose ADL bracketing for Custom Setting e5 Auto bracketing set. Choose the number of shots. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the main command dial to choose the number of shots in the bracketing sequence.
Page 156 Select Active D-Lighting. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose Active D-Lighting. Active D-Lighting is shown in the control panel. Control panel display Fn button Sub-command dial Active D-Lighting Auto Normal High Extra high...
Page 157 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. The camera will vary Active D-Lighting shot-by-shot according to the bracketing program selected. While bracketing is in effect, a bracketing progress indicator will be displayed in the control panel. A segment will disappear from the indicator after each shot.
Page 158 Canceling Bracketing To cancel bracketing, press the Fn button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequence is zero. The program last in effect will be restored the next time bracketing is activated. Bracketing can also be cancelled by performing a two-button reset (0 182), although in this case the bracketing program will not be restored the next time bracketing is activated.
Page 159: White Balance
White Balance – Keeping Colors True The color of light reflected from an object varies with the color of the light source. The human brain is able to adapt to changes in the color of the light source, with the result that white objects appear white whether seen in the shade, direct sunlight, or under incandescent lighting.
Page 160: White Balance Options
White Balance Options For natural coloration, choose a white balance setting that matches the light source before shooting. The following options are available: Option v Auto J Incandescent I Fluorescent Sodium-vapor lamps Warm-white fluorescent White fluorescent Cool-white fluorescent Day white fluorescent Daylight fluorescent High temp.
Page 161 Auto white balance is recommended with most light sources. If the desired results can not be achieved with auto white balance, choose an option from the list above or use preset white balance. White balance can be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel.
Page 162 Color Temperature The perceived color of a light source varies with the viewer and other conditions. Color temperature is an objective measure of the color of a light source, defined with reference to the temperature to which an object would have to be heated to radiate light in the same wavelengths.
Page 163: 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 or by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial.
Page 164 Fine tune white balance. Use the multi selector to fine- tune white balance. White balance can be fine tuned on the amber (A)–blue (B) axis and the green (G)–magenta (M) axis. The horizontal (amber- blue) axis corresponds to color temperature, with each increment equivalent to about 5 mired.
Page 165 White Balance Fine Tuning The colors on the fine-tuning axes are relative, not absolute. For example, moving the cursor to B (blue) when a “warm” setting such as J (incandescent) is selected for white balance will make photographs slightly “colder” but will not actually make them blue. Color Temperature Fine-Tuning When Choose color temp.
Page 166 The WB Button At settings other than K (Choose color temp.) and L (Preset manual), the WB button can be used to fine-tune white balance on the amber (A)–blue (B) axis (0 138; to fine-tune white balance when K or L is selected, use the shooting menu as described on page 137).
Page 167: Choosing A Color Temperature
Choosing a Color Temperature When K (Choose color temp.) is selected for white balance, color temperature can be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. The color temperature is displayed in the control panel: WB button Choose Color Temperature Note that the desired results will not be obtained with flash or fluorescent lighting.
Page 168: 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 Direct measurement Copy from existing photograph...
Page 169 The camera can store up to five values for preset white balance in presets d-0 through d-4. A descriptive comment can be added to any white balance preset (0 152). Stores last value measured for white balance (0 144). This preset is overwritten when a new value is measured.
Page 170 Measuring a Value for White Balance Light a reference object. Place a neutral gray or white object under the lighting that will be used in the final photograph. In studio settings, a standard gray panel can be used as a reference object. Note that exposure is automatically increased by 1 EV when measuring white balance;...
Page 171 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. The camera will measure a value for white balance and store it in preset d-0.
Page 172 Select preset d-0. If the new value for preset white balance will be used immediately, select preset d-0 by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial until d-0 is displayed in the control panel. Direct Measurement Mode If no operations are performed while the displays are flashing, direct measurement mode will end in the time selected for Custom Setting c2 (Auto meter-off delay, 0 273).
Page 173 Copying White Balance from d-0 to Presets d-1–d-4 Follow the steps below to copy a measured value for white balance from d-0 to any of the other presets (d-1–d-4). Select L (Preset manual). Press the G button and select White balance in the shooting menu.
Page 174 Copying White Balance from a Photograph (d-1–d-4 Only) Follow the steps below to copy a value for white balance from an existing photograph to a selected preset (d-1–d-4 only). Existing white balance values can not be copied to preset d-0. Select L (Preset manual).
Page 175 Highlight a source image. Highlight the source image. To view the highlighted image full frame, press and hold the X button. To view images in other locations, press W and select the desired card and folder (0 217). Copy white balance. Press the center of the multi selector to copy the white balance value for the highlighted photograph to the selected preset.
Page 176 Selecting a White Balance Preset To set white balance to a preset value: Select L (Preset manual). Highlight Preset manual in the white balance menu and press Select a preset. Highlight the desired preset and press the center of the multi selector.
Page 177 Selecting a White Balance Preset: the WB Button At a setting of L (Preset manual), presets can also be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. The current preset is displayed in the control panel while the WB button is pressed.
Page 178 Entering a Comment Follow the steps below to enter a descriptive comment of up to thirty-six characters for a selected white balance preset. Select L (Preset manual). Highlight Preset manual in the white balance menu and press 2. Select a preset. Highlight the desired preset and press the center of the multi selector.
Page 179: Image Enhancement
Image Enhancement This chapter describes how to optimize sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation and hue using Picture Controls, how to preserve detail in highlights and shadows using active D-Lighting, and how to choose a color space. Picture Controls ... 154 Creating Custom Picture Controls ...160 Active D-Lighting ...
Page 180: 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 a choice of preset Picture Controls. Choose a Picture Control according to the subject or type of scene.
Page 181 Picture Controls using the Manage Picture Control option in the shooting menu (0 160). Custom Picture Controls can be saved to a memory card for sharing among other D300S cameras and compatible software (0 163). Optional Picture Controls Additional optional Picture Controls are available for download from Nikon websites.
Page 182: Modifying Existing Picture Controls
Modifying Existing Picture Controls Existing preset or custom Picture Controls (0 160) 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. Select a Picture Control.
Page 183 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). For Quick adjust example, choosing positive values for Vivid makes pictures more vivid. Not available with Neutral, Monochrome, or custom Picture Controls.
Page 184 Active D-Lighting Contrast and Brightness can not be adjusted when Active D-Lighting (0164) is on. Any manual adjustments currently in effect will be lost when Active D-Lighting is turned on. “A” (Auto) Results for auto contrast and saturation vary with exposure and the position of the subject in the frame.
Page 185 Toning (Monochrome Only) Pressing 3 when Toning is selected displays saturation options. Press 4 or 2 to adjust saturation. Saturation control is not available when B&W (black-and-white) is selected. Custom Picture Controls The options available with custom Picture Controls are the same as those on which the custom Picture Control was based.
Page 186: 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.
Page 187 Edit the selected Picture Control. See page 157 for more information. To abandon any changes and start over from default settings, press the O button. Press J when settings are complete. Select a destination. Choose a destination for the custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2.
Page 188 Manage Picture Control > Rename Custom Picture Controls can be renamed at any time using the Rename option in the Manage Picture Control menu. Manage Picture Control > Delete The Delete option in the Manage Picture Control menu can be used to delete selected custom Picture Controls when they are no longer needed.
Page 189: 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 (if two memory cards are inserted, the card in the primary slot will be used;...
Page 190: 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. Active D-Lighting off Active D-Lighting off Active D-Lighting: Y Auto...
Page 191 To use active D-Lighting: Select Active D-Lighting. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight Active D-Lighting in the shooting menu and press 2. 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 (in...
Page 192: Color Space
Color Space The color space determines the gamut of colors available for color reproduction. Choose a color space according to how photographs will be processed on leaving the camera. Option W sRGB X Adobe RGB Select Color space. To display the menus, press the G button.
Page 193 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 the D300S.
Page 195: Flash Photography
Flash Photography – Using the Built-in Flash This chapter describes how to use the built-in flash. The Built-in Flash... 170 Using the Built-in Flash ... 171 Flash Modes... 175 Flash Compensation ... 177 FV Lock ... 178...
Page 196: The Built-In Flash
The Built-in Flash The built-in flash has a Guide Number (GN) 17/56 (m/ft., ISO 200, 20 °C/68 °F). It supports i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR, which uses monitor pre-flashes to adjust flash output for balanced lighting not only when natural lighting is inadequate but when filling in shadows and backlit subjects or adding a catch light to the subject’s eyes.
Page 197: Using The Built-In Flash
Using the Built-in Flash Follow these steps when using the built-in flash. Choose a metering method (0 102). Select matrix or center-weighted metering to activate i-TTL balanced fill- flash for digital SLR. Standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR is activated automatically when spot metering is selected.
Page 198 Check exposure (shutter speed and aperture). Press the shutter-release button halfway and check shutter speed and aperture. The settings available when the built-in flash is raised are listed below. Mode Set automatically by camera Value selected by user Set automatically by camera Value selected by user 1 Shutter speed may be set as slow as 30s in slow sync, slow rear-curtain sync, and slow sync with red-eye reduction flash modes.
Page 199 Lowering the Built-in Flash To save power when the flash is not in use, press it gently downward until the latch clicks into place. The Built-in Flash Use with lenses with focal lengths of 16–300 mm (0 344). Remove lens hoods to prevent shadows.
Page 200 Aperture, Sensitivity, and Flash Range The range of the built-in flash varies with sensitivity (ISO equivalency) and aperture. Aperture at ISO equivalent of The built-in flash has a minimum range of 0.6 m (2 ft.). In programmed auto exposure mode (mode e), the maximum aperture (minimum f-number) is limited according to ISO sensitivity, as shown below: For each one-step increase in sensitivity (e.g., from 200 to 400), aperture...
Page 201: Flash Modes
Flash Modes The D300S supports the following flash modes: Flash mode This mode is recommended for most situations. In programmed auto and aperture-priority auto modes, shutter speed will automatically be set to values Front-curtain between sync flash unit is used with Auto FP High-Speed Sync; 0 281).
Page 202 Flash Control Mode The information display shows the flash control mode for the built-in flash (Built-in) and for optional flash units attached to the camera accessory shoe (Optional) as follows: Auto FP (0 281) Repeating flash Commander mode 1 Available with SB-900 and SB-800 only. 2 Flash control mode for built-in flash can be selected using Custom Setting e3 (Flash cntrl for built-in flash, 0 283).
Page 203: Flash Compensation
Flash Compensation Flash compensation is used to alter flash output by from –3EV to +1EV in increments of 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. Press the Y button and rotate the sub-command dial until the desired value is displayed in the...
Page 204: Fv Lock
FV Lock This feature is used to lock flash output, allowing photographs to be recomposed without changing the flash level and ensuring that flash output is appropriate to the subject even when the subject is not positioned in the center of the frame. Flash output is adjusted automatically for any changes in ISO sensitivity and aperture.
Page 205 Lock flash level. After confirming that the flash ready indicator (M) is displayed in the viewfinder, press the Fn button. The flash will emit a monitor preflash to determine the appropriate flash level. Flash output will be locked at this level and FV lock icons (e) will appear in the control panel and viewfinder.
Page 206 Using FV Lock with Optional Flash Units FV lock is also available with SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 flash units (available separately). Set the optional flash to TTL mode (the SB-900 and SB-800 can also be used in AA mode; see the flash manual for details).
Page 207: Other Shooting Options
Other Shooting Options This chapter covers restoring default settings, making multiple exposures, interval timer photography, and using GPS units and non-CPU lenses. Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings... 182 Multiple Exposure ... 184 Interval Timer Photography... 189 Non-CPU Lenses ... 195 Using a GPS Unit...
Page 208: Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings
Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings The camera settings listed below can be restored to default values by holding the QUAL and E buttons down together for more than two seconds (these buttons are marked by a green dot). The control panel turns off briefly while settings are reset.
Page 209 The following shooting-menu options will also be reset. Only settings in the bank currently selected using the Shooting menu bank option will be reset (0 254). Settings in the remaining banks are unaffected. Option Default Image quality JPEG Normal Image size If the current Picture Control has been modified, existing settings for the Picture Control will also be restored.
Page 210: Multiple Exposure
Multiple Exposure Follow the steps below to record a series of two to ten exposures in a single photograph. Multiple exposures can be recorded at any image quality setting, and produce results with colors noticeably better than photographs combined in an imaging application because they make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor.
Page 211 Select the number of shots. Press 1 or 3 to choose the number of exposures that will be combined to form a single photograph and press J. Select Auto gain. Highlight Auto gain and press Set gain. Highlight one of the following options and press J.
Page 212 Select Done. Highlight Done and press J. A n icon will be displayed in the control panel. To exit without taking a multiple exposure, select Multiple exposure > Reset in the shooting menu. Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. In continuous high-speed and continuous low- speed release modes (0 86), the camera records all exposures in a single burst.
Page 213 Multiple Exposure Do not remove or replace the memory card while recording a multiple exposure. Live view (0 47) can not be used to record multiple exposures. The information listed in the playback photo information display (including date of recording and camera orientation) is for the first shot in the multiple exposure.
Page 214 Interrupting Multiple Exposures Selecting Multiple exposure in the shooting menu while a multiple exposure is being recorded displays the options shown at right. To interrupt a multiple exposure before the specified number of exposures have been taken, highlight Cancel and press J. If shooting ends before the specified number of exposures have been taken, a multiple exposure will be created from the exposures that have been recorded to that point.
Page 215: Interval Timer Photography
Interval Timer Photography The camera is equipped to take photographs automatically at preset intervals. Before Shooting Select a release mode other than self-timer (E) or mirror-up (M using the interval timer. Before beginning interval timer photography, take a test shot at current settings and view the results in the monitor. Remember that the camera will focus before each shot—no shots will be taken if the camera is unable to focus in single-servo AF.
Page 216 Choose a start time. Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours or minutes; press 1 or 3 to change. The starting time is not displayed if Now is selected for Choose start time. Press 2 to continue. Choose an interval. Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours, minutes, or seconds;...
Page 217 Start shooting. Highlight Start > On and press J (to return to the shooting menu without starting the interval timer, highlight Start > Off and press J). The first series of shots will be taken at the specified starting time, or after about 3 s if Now was selected for Choose start time in Step 2.
Page 218 Bracketing Adjust bracketing settings before starting interval timer photography. If exposure, flash, or ADL bracketing is active while interval timer photography is in effect, the camera will take the number of shots in the bracketing program at each interval, regardless of the number of shots specified in the interval timer menu.
Page 219 Pausing Interval Timer Photography Interval time photography can be paused by: • Pressing the J button between intervals • Highlighting Start > Pause in the interval timer menu and pressing J • Turning the camera off and then on again (if desired, the memory card can be replaced while the camera is off ) •...
Page 220 Interrupting Interval Timer Photography Interval timer shooting will end automatically if the battery is exhausted. Interval timer photography can also be ended by: • Selecting Start > Off in the interval timer menu • Performing a two button reset (0 182) •...
Page 221: Non-Cpu Lenses
Non-CPU Lenses By specifying lens data (lens focal length and maximum aperture), the user can gain access to a variety of CPU lens functions when using a non-CPU lens (0 342). If the focal length of the lens is known: •...
Page 222 The Non-CPU Lens Data Menu Select Non-CPU lens data. Press the G button to display the menus. Highlight Non-CPU lens data in the setup menu and press 2. Select a lens number. Highlight Lens number and press 4 or 2 to choose a lens number between 1 and 9.
Page 223 Select Done. Highlight Done and press J. The specified focal length and aperture will be stored under the chosen lens number. This combination of focal length and aperture can be recalled at any time by selecting the lens number using camera controls as described below. Choosing a Lens Number Using Camera Controls Assign non-CPU lens number selection to a camera control.
Page 224: Using A Gps Unit
Using a GPS Unit A GPS unit can be connected to the ten-pin remote terminal, allowing the current latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and heading to be recorded with each photograph taken. The camera can be used with an optional GP-1 GPS unit (see below;...
Page 225 Other GPS Units Optional Garmin GPS units that conform to version 2.01 or 3.01 of the National Marine Electronics Association NMEA0183 data format can be connected to the camera’s ten-pin remote terminal using an MC-35 GPS adapter cord (available separately; 0 356). Operation has been confirmed with Garmin eTrex and Garmin geko series devices equipped with a PC interface cable connector.
Page 226 The k Icon When the camera establishes communication with a GPS device, a k icon will be displayed in the control panel. Photo information for pictures taken while the k icon is displayed will include a page of GPS data (0 214). GPS data are only recorded when the k icon is displayed;...
Page 227 Setup Menu Options The GPS item in the setup menu contains the options listed below. • Auto meter off: Choose whether or not the exposure meters will turn off automatically when a GPS unit is attached. Option Exposure meters will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for the period specified in Custom Setting c2 (Auto meter-off delay).
Page 229: More About Playback
More About Playback – Playback Options This chapter describes how to play back photographs and details the operations that can be performed during playback. Full-Frame Playback... 204 Photo Information ... 207 Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback ... 216 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom ... 218 Protecting Photographs from Deletion ...
Page 230: Full-Frame Playback
Full-Frame Playback To play photographs back, press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor. O button K button G button L button W button X button J button Rotate Tall To display “tall” (portrait-orientation) photographs in tall orientation, select On for the Rotate tall option in the playback menu (0 251).
Page 231 View additional photographs View photo information View thumbnails Zoom in on photograph Delete images Change protect status Return to shooting mode Display menus Retouch picture Play movie Description Press 2 to view photographs in order recorded, 4 to view photographs in reverse order.
Page 232 Image Review When On is selected for Image review in the playback menu (0 251), photographs are automatically displayed in the monitor for about 4 s after shooting (because the camera is already in the correct orientation, images are not rotated automatically during image review). In single- frame, quiet shutter-release, self-timer, and mirror-up release modes, photographs are displayed one at a time as they are taken.
Page 233: Photo Information
Select R , G , B Highlights 100 -- 1 H i g h l i g h t s Select R , G , B RGB histogram 1 / 10 N I KON D300S 1 125 F5 . 6 35mm AUTO 0, 0 20100D300S...
Page 234: File Information
File Information 20100D300S 10DSC 0001. JPG 15/ 04/ 2009 10 : 15 : 29 1 Displayed only if Focus point is selected for Display mode (0 247). 2 If photograph was taken in focus mode S, display shows point where focus first locked. In focus mode C, focus point is only displayed if single-point or dynamic area was selected for AF-area mode and camera was able to focus.
Page 235 Highlights H i g h l i g h t s Select R , G , B 1 Displayed only if Highlights is selected for Display mode (0 247). 2 Blinking areas indicate highlights (areas that may be overexposed) for current channel. Press 4 or 2 while pressing W button to cycle through channels as follows: (all channels)
Page 236 RGB Histogram 100 -- 1 H i g h l i g h t s 1 Displayed only if RGB histogram is selected for Display mode (0 247). 2 Blinking areas indicate highlights (areas that may be overexposed) for current channel. Press 4 or 2 while pressing W button to cycle through channels as follows: (all channels)
Page 237 3 Some sample histograms are shown below: • If the image contains objects with a wide range of brightnesses, the distribution of tones will be relatively even. • If the image is dark, tone distribution will be shifted to the left. •...
Page 238 18 – 200 LENS Built – i n , TTL , + 1 . 3 FLASH MODE, TTL, + 3. 0 N I KON D300S Protect status ... 219 Retouch indicator... 315 Metering method... 102 Shutter speed ... 108, 111 Aperture ...
Page 239 PI CTURE CTRL : STANDARD QUICK ADJUST SHARPENING CONTRAST BRI GHTNESS SATURATION N I KON D300S Protect status ... 219 Retouch indicator... 315 White balance ... 133 Color temperature... 141 White balance fine-tuning... 137 Preset manual ... 142 1 Displayed only if Data is selected for Display mode (0 247).
Page 240 Shooting Data Page 4 ART I ST NIKON TARO COPYRI GHT : NIKON N I KON D300S * Displayed only if Data is selected for Display mode (0 247) and copyright information was appended to photograph (0 309). GPS Data LATITUDE .
Page 241 Overview Data 1 / 10 N I KON D300S 1 8000 , F4 . 8 + 1 . 0 – 1. 3 SLOW 10000 B6, M1 20100D300S 10DSC 0001. JPG 15/ 04/ 2009 10 : 15 : 29 4288x2848 Frame number/total number of frames Protect status ...
Page 242: Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback
Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback To display images in “contact sheets” of four, nine, or 72 images, press the W button. Full-frame playback The following operations can be performed: Display more images Display fewer images Toggle full frame playback Highlight images Delete highlighted photo Change protect...
Page 243 Choosing a Memory Card If two memory cards are inserted, you can select a memory card for playback by pressing the W button when 72 thumbnails are displayed. The dialog shown at right will be displayed; highlight the desired memory card slot and press 2 to display a list of folders, then highlight a folder and press J to view the pictures in the selected folder.
Page 244: Taking A Closer Look: Playback Zoom
Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom Press the X button to zoom in on the current image. The following operations can be performed while zoom is in effect: Zoom in or out View other areas of image View other images Select faces Change...
Page 245: Protecting Photographs From Deletion
Protecting Photographs from Deletion In full-frame, zoom, and thumbnail playback, the L button can be used to protect photographs from accidental deletion. Protected files can not be deleted using the O button or the Delete option in the playback menu. Note that protected images will be deleted when the memory card is formatted (0 34, 301).
Page 246: Deleting Photographs
Deleting Photographs To delete the photograph displayed in full-frame playback or highlighted in the thumbnail list, press the O button. To delete multiple selected photographs or all photographs in the current playback folder, use the Delete option in the playback menu. Once deleted, photographs can not be recovered.
Page 247: 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. Delete all pictures in the folder currently selected for R All playback (0 245).
Page 248 Select the highlighted picture. Press the center of the multi selector to select the highlighted picture. Selected pictures are marked by a O icon. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to select additional pictures; to deselect a picture, highlight it and press the center of the multi selector.
Page 249: Connections
Connections – Connecting to External Devices This chapter describes how to copy photographs to a computer, how to print pictures, and how to view them on a television set. Connecting to a Computer ... 224 Direct USB Connection ...225 Wireless and Ethernet Networks ...227 Printing Photographs ...
Page 250: Connecting To A Computer
Connecting to a Computer This section describes how to use the supplied UC-E4 USB cable to connect the camera to a computer. Before connecting the camera, install Nikon Transfer and ViewNX from the supplied Software Suite CD (see the Install Guide for more information). Nikon Transfer starts automatically when the camera is connected and is used to copy photographs to the computer, where they can be viewed using ViewNX (Nikon Transfer can also be used to back up...
Page 251: Direct Usb Connection
Direct USB Connection Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. Turn the camera off. Turn the computer on. Turn the computer on and wait for it to start up. Connect the USB cable. Connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle.
Page 252 Transfer photographs. Nikon Transfer will start automatically; click the Start Transfer button to transfer photographs (for more information on using Nikon Transfer, select Nikon Transfer help from the Nikon Transfer Help menu). Turn the camera off. Turn the camera off and disconnect the USB cable when transfer is complete.
Page 253: Wireless And Ethernet Networks
Wireless and Ethernet Networks If the optional WT-4 wireless transmitter (0 352) is attached, photographs can be transferred or printed over wireless or Ethernet networks and the camera can also be controlled from network computers running Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately).
Page 254: Printing Photographs
Printing Photographs To print selected JPEG pictures on a PictBridge printer via direct USB connection, follow the steps below. Select photographs for printing using Print photographs one at a time (0 230) Selecting Photographs for Printing Images created at image quality settings of NEF (RAW) or TIFF (RGB) (0 68) can not be selected for printing.
Page 255: Connecting The Printer
Connecting the Printer Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. Turn the camera off. Connect the USB cable. Turn the printer on and connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle. USB Hubs Connect the camera directly to the printer;...
Page 256: Printing Pictures One At A Time
Printing Pictures One at a Time Select a picture. Press 4 or 2 to view additional pictures. Press 1 or 3 to view photo information (0 207), or press and hold the X button to zoom in on the current frame (0 218). To view six pictures at a time, press the W button.
Page 257 Option Menu shown at right will be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to choose print style from Printer default (default for current Border printer), Print with border (print photo with white border), or No border, then press J to select and return to previous menu.
Page 258 Start printing. Select Start printing and press J to start printing. To cancel before all copies have been printed, press J.
Page 259: Printing Multiple Pictures
Printing Multiple Pictures Display the PictBridge menu. Press the G button in the PictBridge playback display (see Step 3 on page 229). Choose Print select or Print (DPOF). Highlight one of the following options and press 2. • Print select: Select pictures for printing.
Page 260 Select pictures. 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 L button and press 1. The picture will be marked with a Z icon and the number of prints will be set to 1.
Page 261: Start Printing
Adjust printing options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. Option Menu of page size options will be displayed (0 230). Press 1 or 3 to choose page size (to print at default Page size page size for current printer, select Printer default), then press J to select and return to previous menu.
Page 262 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” (0 233). Note that if the memory card contains more than 256 pictures, only the first 256 images will be printed. Select Index print.
Page 263: 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. Choose Select/set. Press the G button and select Print set (DPOF) in the playback menu.
Page 264 Select imprint options. Highlight the following options and press 2 to toggle the highlighted option on or off (to complete the print order without including this information, proceed to Step 4). • Data imprint: Print shutter speed and aperture on all pictures in print order.
Page 265: Viewing Photographs On Tv
Viewing Photographs on TV The supplied EG-D2 audio/video (A/V) cable can be used to connect the D300S to a television or VCR for playback or recording. A type C mini-pin High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable (available separately from commercial sources) can be used to connect the camera to high-definition video devices.
Page 266 Video Mode If no image is displayed, check that camera is correctly connected and that the option selected for Video mode ( used in the TV. Television Playback Use of an EH-5a or EH-5 AC adapter (available separately) is recommended for extended playback. When the EH-5a or EH-5 is connected, the camera monitor-off delay will be fixed at ten minutes and the exposure meters will no longer turn off automatically.
Page 267: 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 commercial sources). 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 Tune the device to the HDMI channel.
Page 269: Menu Guide
Menu Guide This chapter describes the options available in the camera menus. D The Playback Menu: Managing Images ... 244 C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options... 253 A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings... 260 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup... 300 N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies...
Page 270: D The Playback Menu: Managing Images
D The Playback Menu: Managing Images To display the playback menu, press G and select the K (playback menu) tab. G button Option Delete Playback folder Hide image Display mode Copy image(s) Image review After delete Rotate tall Slide show Print set (DPOF)
Page 271: Playback Folder
Playback Folder Choose a folder for playback. Option Pictures in all folders created with the D300S will be visible D300S during playback. Pictures in all folders will be visible during playback. Only pictures in the current folder will be visible during Current playback.
Page 272 Select pictures. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card (to view the highlighted picture full screen, press and hold the X button; to view images in other locations, press W and select the desired card and folder as described on page 217) and press the center of the multi selector to select the current picture.
Page 273: Display Mode
Display Mode Choose the information available in the playback photo information display (0 207). Select options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option, then press 2 to select the option for the photo information display. A L appears next to selected items; to deselect, highlight and press 2.
Page 274: Copy Image(S)
Copy Image(s) Copy images between memory cards. This option is only available when two memory cards are inserted in the camera. Option Select source Select image(s) Select destination folder Select the folder to which pictures will be copied. Copy image(s)? To copy images: Choose Select source.
Page 275 Make the initial selection. Before going on select or deselect individual images, you can mark all or all protected images in the folder for copying by choosing Select all images or Select protected images. To mark only individually selected images for copying, choose Deselect all before proceeding.
Page 276 To choose from a list of existing folders, choose Select folder from list, highlight a folder, and press J. Copy the images. Highlight Copy image(s)? and press 2. A confirmation dialog will be displayed; highlight Yes and press J. Press J again to exit when copying is complete.
Page 277: 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. After Delete Choose the picture displayed after an image is deleted. Option Show Display following picture.
Page 278: Slide Show
Slide Show Create a slide show of the pictures in the current playback folder (0 245). Hidden images (0 245) are not displayed. Option Start Frame interval To start the slide show, highlight Start and press J. The following operations can be performed while the slide show is in progress: Skip back/skip ahead View additional...
Page 279: 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 Option Shooting menu bank Reset shooting menu Active folder File naming Primary slot selection Secondary slot function Image quality Image size JPEG compression NEF (RAW) recording...
Page 280: Shooting Menu Bank
Shooting Menu Bank Shooting menu options are stored in one of four banks. With the exceptions of Interval timer shooting, Multiple exposure, and modifications to Picture Controls (quick adjust and other manual adjustments), changes to settings in one bank have no effect on the others.
Page 281 Enter a name. To move the cursor in the name area, press the W button and press 4 or 2. To enter a new letter at the current cursor position, use the multi selector to highlight the desired character in the keyboard area and press the center of the multi selector.
Page 282: Reset Shooting Menu
Reset Shooting Menu Select Yes to restore default settings for the current shooting menu bank. See page 368 for a list of default settings. Active Folder Select the folder in which subsequent images will be stored. New Folder Number Select New folder number. Highlight New folder number and press 2.
Page 283 Select Folder Choose Select folder. Highlight Select folder and press 2. Highlight a folder. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a folder. Select the highlighted folder. Press J to select the highlighted folder and return to the shooting menu (to exit without changing the active folder, press the G button).
Page 284: File Naming
File Naming Photographs are saved using file names consisting of “DSC_” or, in the case of images that use the Adobe RGB color space, “_DSC”, followed by a four-digit number and a three-letter extension (e.g., “DSC_0001.JPG”). The File naming option is used to select three letters to replace the “DSC”...
Page 285: High Iso Nr
High ISO NR Photographs taken at high ISO sensitivities can be processed to reduce “noise. ” Option Noise reduction is performed at ISO sensitivities of ISO S High 800 and higher. While photographs are being processed, T Normal the capacity of the memory buffer will drop. Choose the amount of noise reduction performed from High, U Low Normal, and Low.
Page 286: 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 to suit individual preferences. Main menu B: Custom setting bank (0 262) A: Reset custom settings...
Page 287 The following Custom Settings are available: Custom Setting B Custom setting bank A Reset custom settings a Autofocus a1 AF-C priority selection a2 AF-S priority selection a3 Dynamic AF area a4 Focus tracking with lock-on a5 AF activation a6 AF point illumination a7 Focus point wrap-around a8 AF point selection a9 Built-in AF-assist illuminator...
Page 288: B: Custom Setting Bank
B: Custom Setting Bank Custom Settings are stored in one of four banks. Changes to settings in one bank have no effect on the others. To store a particular combination of frequently-used settings, select one of the four banks and set the camera to these settings. The new settings will be stored in the bank even when the camera is turned off, and will be restored the next time the bank is selected.
Page 289: A: Autofocus
a: Autofocus a1: AF-C Priority Selection 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) in continuous-servo AF. To select continuous-servo AF, rotate the focus mode selector to C. Option Photos can be taken whenever the shutter-release G Release...
Page 290: A2: Af-S Priority Selection
a2: AF-S Priority Selection This option controls whether photographs can be taken only when the camera is in focus (focus priority) or whenever the shutter- release button is pressed (release priority) in single-servo AF. To select single-servo AF, rotate the focus mode selector to S.
Page 291 Option If the subject leaves the selected focus point, the d 21 points camera will focus based on information from the surrounding 20 focus points. Choose when photographing subjects that are moving unpredictably (e.g., players at a football game). If the subject leaves the selected focus point, the e 51 points camera will focus based on information from the surrounding 50 focus points.
Page 292: A4: Focus Tracking With Lock-On
a4: Focus Tracking with Lock-On This option controls how autofocus adjusts to sudden large changes in the distance to the subject. Option When the distance to the subject changes abruptly, the C Long camera waits for the specified period (long, normal, or D Normal short) before adjusting the distance to the subject.
Page 293: A7: Focus Point Wrap-Around
a7: Focus Point Wrap-Around Choose whether focus-point selection “wraps around” from one edge of the viewfinder to another. Option Focus-point selection “wraps around” from top to bottom, bottom to top, right to left, and left to right, so that, for example, Wrap pressing 2 when a focus point at the right edge of the viewfinder display is highlighted (q) selects the...
Page 294: A9: Built-In Af-Assist Illuminator
a9: Built-in AF-assist Illuminator Choose whether the built-in AF-assist illuminator lights to assist the focus operation when lighting is poor. Option The AF-assist illuminator lights when lighting is poor. AF- assist illumination is only available when both of the following conditions are met: 1.
Page 295: A10: Af-On For Mb-D10
a10: AF-On for MB-D10 Choose the function assigned to the B button on the optional MB-D10 battery pack. Option A AF-ON Pressing the MB-D10 B button initiates autofocus. Focus and exposure lock while the MB-D10 B B AE/AF lock button is pressed. Exposure locks while the MB-D10 B button is C AE lock only pressed.
Page 296: B: Metering/Exposure
b: Metering/Exposure b1: ISO Sensitivity Step Value Select the increments used when making adjustments to ISO sensitivity. b2: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl. Select the increments used when making adjustments to shutter speed, aperture, and bracketing. b3: Exp Comp/Fine Tune Select the increments used when making adjustments to exposure and flash compensation.
Page 297: B4: Easy Exposure Compensation
b4: Easy Exposure Compensation This option controls whether the E button is needed to set exposure compensation (0 118). If On (Auto reset) or On is selected, the 0 at the center of the exposure display will blink even when exposure compensation is set to ±0. Option Exposure compensation is set by rotating one of the command dials (see note below).
Page 298: B5: Center-Weighted Area
b5: Center-Weighted Area When calculating exposure, center-weighted metering assigns the greatest weight to a circle in the center of the frame. The diameter (φ ) of this circle can be set to 6, 8, 10, or 13 mm or to the average of the entire frame.
Page 299: C: Timers/Ae Lock
c: Timers/AE Lock c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L At the default setting of Off, exposure only locks when the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed. If On is selected, exposure will also lock when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. c2: Auto Meter-off Delay Choose how long the camera continues to meter exposure when no operations are performed.
Page 300: C4: Monitor Off Delay
c4: Monitor off Delay G button A Custom Settings menu Choose how long the monitor remains on when no operations are performed during playback (Playback; defaults to 10 s) and image review (Image review; defaults to 4 s) or when menus (Menus; defaults to 20 s) or information (Information display;...
Page 301: 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 while the self-timer is active or when the camera focuses using single-servo AF. Note that a beep will not sound when the camera focuses during movie recording or in quiet-shutter release mode (mode J) or if Release is selected for Custom Setting a2 (AF-S priority selection, 0 264).
Page 302: D4: Screen Tips
d4: Screen Tips Choose On to display tool tips for items selected in the information display. d5: CL Mode Shooting Speed Choose the maximum frame advance rate in (continuous low speed) mode (during interval timer photography, this setting also determines the frame advance rate for single- frame).
Page 303: D7: File Number Sequence
d7: 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 304: D8: Information Display
d8: Information Display At the default setting of Auto (AUTO), the color of the lettering in the information display (0 12) will automatically change from black to white or white to black to maintain contrast with the background. To always use the same color lettering, select Manual and choose Dark on light (B;...
Page 305: D11: Mb-D10 Battery Type
d11: MB-D10 Battery Type To ensure that the camera functions as expected when eight AA batteries are used in the optional MB-D10 battery pack, match the option selected in this menu to the type of batteries inserted in the battery pack. There is no need to adjust this option when using EN-EL3e or optional EN-EL4a or EN-EL4 batteries.
Page 306: D12: Battery Order
d12: Battery Order Choose whether the battery in the camera or the batteries in the battery pack are used first when an optional MB-D10 battery pack is attached. A X icon is displayed in the camera control panel when the batteries in the MB-D10 are in use.
Page 307: E: Bracketing/Flash
e: Bracketing/Flash e1: Flash Sync Speed This option controls flash sync speed. Option Use auto FP high-speed sync with SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-R200 flash units. If other flash units are used, shutter 1/320 s speed is set to (Auto FP) speed of speed sync will be activated if the actual shutter speed is faster than...
Page 308: E2: Flash Shutter Speed
Flash Control at 1/320 s (Auto FP) When 1/320 s (Auto FP) is selected for Custom Setting e1 (Flash sync speed, 0 281), the built-in flash can be used at shutter speeds as fast as SB-R200 flash units can be used at any shutter speed (Auto FP High- Speed Sync).
Page 309: E3: Flash Cntrl For Built-In Flash
e3: Flash Cntrl for Built-in Flash Choose the flash mode for the built-in flash. Option Flash output is adjusted automatically in response to 1 TTL shooting conditions. 2 Manual Choose the flash level (0 284). The flash fires repeatedly while the shutter is open, 3 Repeating flash producing a strobe-light effect (0 284).
Page 310 Manual Choose a flash level between Full and 1/128 ( full power, the built-in flash has a Guide Number of 17/56 (m/ft., ISO 200, 20°C/68°F). Repeating Flash The flash fires repeatedly while the shutter is open, producing a strobe-light effect. Press 4 or 2 to highlight the following options, 1 or 3 to change.
Page 311 Commander Mode Use the built-in flash as a master flash controlling one or more remote optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 flash units in up to two groups (A and B) using advanced wireless lighting. Selecting this option displays the menu shown at right.
Page 312 Follow the steps below to take photographs in commander mode. Adjust settings for the built-in flash. Choose the flash control mode and output level for the built-in flash. Note that output level can not be adjusted in – – mode. Adjust settings for group A.
Page 313 Compose the shot. Compose the shot and arrange the flash units as shown below. Note that the maximum distance at which the remote flash units can be placed may vary with shooting conditions. 60 ° or less 10 m/33 ft. 30 °...
Page 314 The Flash Sync Mode Display M does not appear in the control panel flash sync mode display when – – is selected for Built-in flash > Mode. Flash Compensation The flash compensation value selected with the Y (M) button and sub- command dial is added to the flash compensation values selected for the built-in flash, group A, and group B in the Commander mode menu.
Page 315: E4: Modeling Flash
e4: Modeling Flash If On is selected when the camera is being used with the built-in flash or an optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 flash unit, a modeling flash will be emitted when the camera depth-of-field preview button is pressed (0 105).
Page 316: E6: Auto Bracketing (Mode M)
e6: Auto Bracketing (Mode M) This option determines which settings are affected when AE & flash or AE only is selected for Custom Setting e5 in manual exposure mode. Option Flash/speed Flash/speed/ aperture Flash/aperture Flash only Flash bracketing is performed only with i-TTL or AA flash control. If a setting other than Flash only is selected and the flash is not used, ISO sensitivity will be fixed at the value for the first shot, regardless of the setting selected for ISO sensitivity auto control (0 98).
Page 317: F: Controls
f: Controls f1: D Switch Choose what happens when the power switch is rotated to D. Option LCD backlight (D) D and information display f2: Multi Selector Center Button This option determines the role assigned to the center of the multi selector in shooting and playback modes (regardless of the option selected, pressing the center of the multi selector when a movie is displayed full frame starts movie playback).
Page 318: F3: Multi Selector
Option Choose slot and folder f3: Multi Selector If Reset meter-off delay is selected, operating the multi selector when the exposure meters are off (0 39) will activate the exposure meters. If Do nothing is selected, the exposure meters will not be activated when the multi selector is pressed.
Page 319 Fn Button Press Selecting Fn button press for Custom Setting f5 displays the following options: Option Press the Fn button to preview depth of field (0 105). Preview Press the Fn button to lock flash value (built-in flash and SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 FV lock flash units only, 0 178).
Page 320 Option Center- weighted metering Spot metering Playback Access top item in MY MENU +NEF (RAW) None * This option can not be used in combination with Fn button + dials (0 295). Selecting this option displays a message and sets Fn button + dials to None. If another option is selected for Fn button + dials while this setting is active, Fn button press will be set to None.
Page 321 Fn button + dials Selecting Fn button + dials for Custom Setting f5 displays the following options: Option If the Fn button is pressed when the command dials are rotated, changes to shutter speed (exposure modes f and h) and aperture (exposure modes g and h) are 1 step spd/ made in increments of 1 EV, regardless of the option aperture...
Page 322: F6: Assign Preview Button
f6: Assign Preview Button Choose the role played by the depth-of-field preview button, either by itself (Preview button press) or when used in combination with the command dials (Preview + command dials). The options available are the same as for Fn button press (0 293) and Fn button + dials (0 295), except that the default option for Preview button press is Preview and the default setting for Preview + command dials is None.
Page 323: F8: Customize Command Dials
f8: Customize Command Dials This option controls the operation of the main and sub-command dials. Option Controls the direction of the command dials. Choose No for normal command dial operation, Yes to reverse the Reverse rotation of the command dials. This rotation setting also applies to the command dials for the MB-D10.
Page 324: F9: Release Button To Use Dial
Option If Off is selected, the multi selector is used to choose the picture displayed during full-frame playback, highlight thumbnails, and navigate menus. If On is selected, the main command dial can be used to choose the picture displayed during full-frame playback, move the cursor left or right during Menus thumbnail playback, and move the menu highlight bar up or down.
Page 325: F10: No Memory Card
f10: No Memory Card? Selecting Enable release allows the shutter to be released when no memory card is inserted, although no pictures will be recorded (they will however be displayed in the monitor in demo mode). If Release locked is selected, the shutter-release button is only enabled when a memory card is inserted in the camera.
Page 326: 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 Option Format memory card LCD brightness Clean image sensor Lock mirror up for cleaning Video mode HDMI Time zone and date Language Image comment Auto image rotation...
Page 327: Format Memory Card
Format Memory Card To begin formatting, choose a memory card slot and select Yes. Note that formatting permanently deletes all pictures and other data on the card in the selected slot. Before formatting, be sure to make backup copies as required.
Page 328: Hdmi
HDMI The camera is equipped with an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connector, allowing pictures to be played back on high-definition televisions or monitors using a cable with a type C mini-pin connector (available separately from commercial suppliers). Before connecting the camera to high-definition device, choose the HDMI format from the options below.
Page 329: Language
Language Choose a language for camera menus and messages. The following options are available. Danish German English Spanish Finnish French Italian Dutch Norwegian Image Comment Add a comment to new photographs as they are taken. Comments can be viewed as metadata in ViewNX (supplied) or Capture NX 2 (available separately;...
Page 330: 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 (0 204) or when viewed in ViewNX (supplied) or in Capture NX 2 (available separately; 0 355). The following orientations are recorded: Landscape (wide) orientation...
Page 331: 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 332 Frame a featureless white object in the viewfinder. With the lens about ten centimeters (four inches) from a well- lit, featureless white object, frame the object so that it fills the viewfinder and then press the shutter-release button halfway. In autofocus mode, focus will automatically be set to infinity; in manual focus mode, set focus to infinity manually.
Page 333: Battery Info
Battery Info View information on the battery currently inserted in the camera. Item Bat. meter The current battery level expressed as a percentage. The number of times the shutter has been released with the current battery since the battery was last charged. Note that the camera may sometimes release the shutter without Pic.
Page 334: Wireless Transmitter
Wireless Transmitter This option is used to adjust settings for connection to a wireless network, using an optional WT-4 wireless transmitter. See “Connections: Wireless and Ethernet Networks” (0 227). Image Authentication On to embed image authentication information in Choose new photographs as they are taken, allowing alterations to be detected using Nikon’s optional Image Authentication software.
Page 335: Copyright Information
Copyright Information Add copyright information to new photographs as they are taken. Copyright information is visible on the fourth shooting data page in the photo information display (0 214) and can be viewed as metadata in ViewNX (supplied) or in Capture NX 2 (available separately;...
Page 336: Save/Load Settings
Save/Load Settings Select Save settings to save the following settings to the memory card, or to the memory card in the primary card slot if two memory cards are inserted (if the memory card is full, an error will be displayed;...
Page 337: Virtual Horizon
All recent settings Recent Settings Choose tab Settings saved using the D300S can be restored by selecting Load settings. Note that Save/load settings is only available when a memory card is inserted in the camera, and that the Load settings option is only available if the card contains saved settings.
Page 338: Af Fine Tune
AF Fine Tune Fine-tune focus for up to 12 lens types. AF tuning is not recommended in most situations and may interfere with normal focus; use only when required. Option AF fine • On: Turn AF tuning on. tune • Off: Turn AF tuning off. (On/Off) Tune AF for the current lens (CPU lenses only).
Page 339: Eye-Fi Upload
AF Tuning The camera may be unable to focus at minimum range or at infinity when AF tuning is applied. Live View (Tripod) Mode Tuning is not applied to contrast-detect autofocus when Tripod is selected in live view mode (0 49). Saved Value Only one value can be stored for each type of lens.
Page 340: Firmware Version
Eye-Fi Cards For information on errors involving Eye-Fi cards, see the manual provided with the Eye-Fi card, and direct any inquiries to the manufacturer. The camera can be used to turn Eye-Fi cards on and off, but may not support other Eye-Fi functions. Supported Eye-Fi Cards As of April 2009, the following 2 GB Eye-Fi cards can be used: Eye-Fi Home, Eye-Fi Share, and Eye-Fi Explore.
Page 341: 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. The retouch menu is only displayed when a memory card containing photographs is inserted in the camera.
Page 342 Creating Retouched Copies To create a retouched copy: Choose a picture. Display the desired picture in full-frame playback (0 204). Retouch The camera may not be able to display or retouch images created with other devices. Display the retouch menu. Press J to display the retouch menu.
Page 343 Select retouch options. For more information, see the section for the selected item. To return to full-frame playback without creating a retouched copy, press K. Monitor off Delay The monitor will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for 20 s. The delay can be adjusted with Custom Setting c4 (Monitor off delay).
Page 344 Retouching Copies Most options can be applied to copies created using other retouch options, although with the exceptions of Image overlay and Edit movie each option can only be applied once (note that multiple edits may result in loss of detail). Options that can not be applied to the current image are grayed out and unavailable.
Page 345: 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 346: Red-Eye Correction
Red-Eye Correction This option is used to correct “red-eye” caused by the flash, and is available only with photographs taken using the flash. The photograph selected for red-eye correction is previewed as shown at right. Confirm the effects of red-eye correction and create a copy as described in the following table.
Page 347: 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. Reduce size of crop Increase size of crop Change crop aspect ratio Move crop Preview crop Create copy...
Page 348: 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 color filter effects.
Page 349: Color Balance
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 (0 210) giving the distribution of tones in the copy. Press J to copy the photograph.
Page 350: 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 photographs combined in an imaging application.
Page 351 Select the second photograph. The selected image will appear as Image 1. Press 2 to highlight Image 2 and repeat steps 2–3 to select the second photo. Set gain. Highlight Image 1 or Image 2 and optimize exposure for the overlay by pressing 1 or 3 to select the gain for image 1 from values between 0.1 and...
Page 352 Image Overlay Only NEF (RAW) photographs created with the D300S can be selected for image overlay. Other images are not displayed in the selection screen. Only NEF (RAW) photographs with the same bit-depth can be combined.
Page 353: 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 354 Adjust NEF (RAW) processing settings. Choose image quality (0 68), image size (0 71), white balance (0 134), exposure compensation (0 118), a Picture Control (0 154; note that the Picture Control grid can not be displayed) and high ISO noise reduction (0 259), and color space (0 166) for the JPEG copy.
Page 355: Resize
Resize Create small copies of selected photographs. Resize can be used during full-frame playback as described on page 316. If you select Resize in the retouch menu, you can resize multiple photographs as described below. Choose a destination. If two memory cards are inserted, you can choose a destination for the resized copy by highlighting Choose...
Page 356 Choose pictures. Highlight Select image and press 2. The dialog shown at right will be displayed; highlight pictures using the multi selector and press the center of the multi selector to select or deselect (to view the highlighted picture full screen, press and hold the X button; to view images in other locations, press W and select the desired card and folder as described on page 217).
Page 357: 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...
Page 358 Compare the copy with the original. The source image is displayed on the left, the retouched copy on the right, with the options used to create the copy listed at the top of the display. Press 4 or 2 to switch between the source image and the retouched copy.
Page 359: O My Menu: Creating A Custom Menu
O My Menu: Creating a Custom Menu To display My Menu, press G and select the O (My Menu) tab. G button The My Menu option can be used to create and edit a customized list of options from the playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, and retouch menus for quick access (up to 20 items).
Page 360 Select an item. Highlight the desired menu item and press J. Position the new item. Press 1 or 3 to move the new item up or down in My Menu. Press J to add the new item. Add more items. The items currently displayed in My Menu are indicated by a check mark.
Page 361: Deleting Options From My Menu
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 362: Reordering Options In My Menu
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 363: Displaying Recent Settings
Displaying Recent Settings To display the twenty most recently used settings, select m Recent settings for O My Menu > Choose tab. Select Choose tab. In My Menu (O), highlight Choose tab and press 2. Select m Recent settings. Highlight m Recent settings and press J.
Page 365: Technical Notes
Technical Notes – Camera Care, Options, and Resources 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... 340 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights) ...
Page 366: Compatible Lenses
Compatible Lenses CPU lenses (particularly types G and D) are recommended for use with the D300S. 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.
Page 367 9 When focusing at minimum focus distance with AF 80–200mm f/2.8, AF 35– 70mm f/2.8, AF 28–85mm f/3.5–4.5 <New>, or AF 28–85mm f/3.5–4.5 lens at maximum zoom, in-focus indicator may be displayed when image on matte screen in viewfinder is not in focus. Adjust focus manually until image in viewfinder is in focus.
Page 368 Non-CPU Lenses Non-CPU lenses include manual focus lenses and other lenses without a built-in CPU. The following is a list of compatible non- CPU lenses and accessories. Camera setting Lens/accessory AI-, AI-modified, NIKKOR or Nikon Series E lenses Medical-NIKKOR 120mm f/4 Reflex-NIKKOR PC-NIKKOR AI-type Teleconverter...
Page 369 The exposure-mode indicator (e or f ) in the control panel will blink, and F will be displayed in the viewfinder. Incompatible Accessories and Non-CPU Lenses The following can be used with the D300S: • TC-16AS AF teleconverter • Non-AI lenses • Lenses that require the AU-1 focusing unit (400mm f/4.5, 600mm f/5.6,...
Page 370 The Built-in Flash The built-in flash can be used with CPU lenses with focal lengths of 16– 300 mm. Remove lens hoods to prevent shadows. The flash has a minimum range of 60 cm (2 ft.) and can not be used in the macro range of macro zoom lenses.
Page 371 AF-Assist Illumination The AF-assist illumination is available with lenses with focal lengths of 24–200mm. It can not however be used to assist the focus operation with the following lenses: • AF-S VR 200mm f/2G ED At ranges under 0.7m (2ft. 4in.), the following lenses may block the AF- assist illuminator and interfere with autofocus when lighting is poor: •...
Page 372 23.6 × 15.8 mm, meaning that the diagonal picture angle of a 35mm camera is approximately 1.5 times that of the D300S. To calculate the focal length of lenses for the D300S in 35mm format, multiply the focal length of the lens by 1.5 (for example, the effective focal length of a 24mm lens in 35mm format would be 36 mm when mounted on the D300S).
Page 373: Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)
Optional Flash Units (Speedlights) The camera supports the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) and can be used with CLS-compatible flash units. Optional flash units can be attached directly to the camera accessory shoe as described below. The accessory shoe is equipped with a safety lock for flash units with a locking pin, such as the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400.
Page 374: 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 375 The following features are available with the above flash units: Flash unit Flash mode/feature i-TTL balanced fill-flash i-TTL for digital SLR Auto aperture Non-TTL auto Range-priority manual Manual Repeating flash Auto FP High-Speed Sync FV lock AF-assist for multi-area AF Flash Color Information Communication REAR...
Page 376: Other Flash Units
Refer to the flash unit manual for detailed instructions. If the unit supports CLS, refer to the section on CLS-compatible digital SLR cameras. The D300S is not included in the “digital SLR” category in the SB-80DX, SB-28DX, and SB-50DX manuals.
Page 377 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: 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 378: Other Accessories
Other Accessories At the time of writing, the following accessories were available for the D300S. • Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e (0 22, 24). • Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10: The MB-D10 is equipped with a shutter-release button, B button, multi selector,...
Page 379 DK-22 eyepiece adapter (available separately) required. • Eyepiece Adapter DK-22: The DK-22 is used when attaching the DG-2 magnifier to the D300S. • Right-Angle Viewing Attachment DR-6: The DR-6 attaches to the viewfinder eyepiece at a right angle, allowing the image in the viewfinder to be viewed from above when the camera is in the horizontal shooting position.
Page 380 • The D300S can not be used with linear polarizing filters. Use the C-PL circular polarizing filter instead. • Use NC and L37C filters to protect the lens.
Page 381 • Capture NX 2: A complete photo editing package with such advanced editing features as selection control points and an auto retouch brush. • Camera Control Pro 2: Control the camera remotely from a computer and save photographs directly to the computer hard disk.
Page 382 UTC time with pictures. • GPS Adapter Cord MC-35 (0 198): Connects GPS devices to D300S via PC cable supplied by manufacturer of GPS device, allowing GPS data to be recorded with photographs (length 35 cm/1 ft. 2 in.).
Page 383: Caring For The Camera
Caring for the Camera Storage When the camera will not be used for an extended period, replace the monitor cover, remove the battery, and store the battery in a cool, dry area with the terminal cover in place. To prevent mold or mildew, store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Page 384: 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 385: Clean At Startup/Shutdown
Select Clean now. Highlight Clean now and press The message shown at right will be displayed while cleaning is in progress. The message shown at right will be displayed when cleaning is complete. “Clean at Startup/Shutdown” Select Clean at startup/ shutdown.
Page 386 Select an option. Highlight one of the following options and press J. Option 5 Clean at startup Clean at shutdown Clean at startup & shutdown 8 Cleaning off Image Sensor Cleaning Using camera controls interrupts image sensor cleaning. Image sensor cleaning may not be performed at startup if the flash is on.
Page 387: Manual Cleaning
Manual Cleaning If foreign matter can not be removed from the low-pass filter using the Clean image sensor (0 358) option in the setup menu, 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 388 Raise the mirror. Press the shutter-release button all the way down. The mirror will be raised and the shutter curtain will open, revealing the low-pass filter. The display in the viewfinder will turn off and the row of dashes in the control panel will blink. Examine the low-pass filter.
Page 389 Nikon takes every possible precaution to prevent foreign matter from coming into contact with the low-pass filter during production and shipping. The D300S, however, is designed to be used with interchangeable lenses, and foreign matter may enter the camera when lenses are removed or exchanged.
Page 390: 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.
Page 391 Cleaning: When cleaning the camera body, use a blower to gently remove dust and lint, then wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. After using the camera at the beach or seaside, wipe off any sand or salt using a cloth lightly dampened in pure water and then dry the camera thoroughly.
Page 392 Turn the product off before removing or disconnecting the power source: Do not unplug the product or remove the battery while the product is on or while images are being recorded or deleted. Forcibly cutting power in these circumstances could result in loss of data or in damage to product memory or internal circuitry.
Page 393 Batteries: Dirt on the battery terminals can prevent the camera from functioning and should be removed with a soft, dry cloth before use. Batteries may leak or explode if improperly handled. Observe the following precautions when handling batteries: Turn the product off before replacing the battery. The battery may become hot when used for extended periods.
Page 394: Defaults
Active D-Lighting (0 165) Long exp. NR (0 258) High ISO NR (0 259) ISO sensitivity settings (0 96) ISO sensitivity (0 96) ISO sensitivity auto control (0 98) Default D300S Show next Default CF card slot Overflow JPEG normal Large...
Page 395 Live view mode (0 49, 52) Multiple exposure (0 184) Movie settings (0 62) Quality Microphone Destination Interval timer shooting (0 189) 1 Default settings can be restored using Reset shooting menu (0 256). With the exception of Multiple exposure and Interval timer shooting, only settings in the current shooting menu bank will be reset.
Page 396 c1 Shutter-release button AE-L (0 273) c2 Auto meter-off delay (0 273) c3 Self-timer (0 273) c4 Monitor off delay (0 274) Playback Menus Information display Image review d1 Beep (0 275) d2 Viewfinder grid display (0 275) d3 Viewfinder warning display (0 275) d4 Screen tips (0 276) d5 CL mode shooting speed (0 276) d6 Max.
Page 397 Option f5 Assign Fn button (0 292) Fn button press Fn button + dials f6 Assign preview button (0 296) Preview button press Preview + command dials f7 Assign AE-L/AF-L button (0 296) AE-L/AF-L button press AE-L/AF-L + command dials f8 Customize command dials (0 297) Reverse rotation (0 297) Change main/sub (0 297)
Page 398: Exposure Program
Exposure Program The exposure program for programmed auto is shown in the following graph: ISO 200; lens with maximum aperture of f/1.4 and minimum aperture of f/16 (e.g., AF 50mm f/1.4 D) f/1.4 f/2.8 f/5.6 f/11 f/16 f/22 f/32 30" 15" 8" 4" 2" 1" The maximum and minimum values for EV vary with ISO sensitivity;...
Page 399: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting If the camera fails to function as expected, check the list of common problems below before consulting your retailer or Nikon representative. Display Viewfinder is out of focus: Adjust viewfinder focus or use optional diopter adjustment lenses (0 36, 353). Viewfinder is dark: Insert a fully-charged battery (0 22, 37).
Page 400 Shooting Camera takes time to turn on: Delete files or folders. Shutter-release disabled: • Memory card is full or not inserted (0 31, 38). • Memory card is locked (SD cards only; 0 35). • CPU lens with aperture ring attached but aperture not locked at highest is displayed in control panel, select Aperture ring for f-number.
Page 401 • Adjust Set Picture Control settings (0 154). Can not measure white balance: Subject is too dark or too bright (0 145). Image can not be selected as source for preset white balance: Image was not created with D300S (0 148).
Page 402 • Camera was pointed up or down when photo was taken (0 304). Can not delete photo: Photo is protected. Remove protection (0 219). Can not retouch picture: Picture was not created with D300S (0 316). Message is displayed stating that no images are available for playback: Select All for...
Page 403 Can not change print order: • Memory card is full: delete photos (0 38, 220). • Memory card is locked (SD cards only; 0 35). Can not select photo for printing: Photo is in NEF (RAW) format. Create JPEG copy using NEF (RAW) processing or transfer to computer and print using ViewNX (supplied) or Capture NX 2 (available separately).
Page 404: Error Messages
Error Messages This section lists the indicators and error messages that appear in the viewfinder, control panel, and monitor. Indicator Control View- panel finder Lens aperture ring is not set to minimum (blinks) aperture. d Low battery. • Battery exhausted. •...
Page 405 Indicator Control View- panel finder Problem No lens attached, or non-CPU lens attached without specifying maximum aperture. Aperture shown in stops from maximum aperture. Camera unable to focus — (blinks) using autofocus. Subject too bright; photo will be overexposed. Solution Aperture value will be displayed if maximum aperture is specified.
Page 406 Indicator Control View- panel finder Subject too dark; photo will be underexposed. A selected in (blinks) exposure mode f. Optional flash unit that does not support i-TTL (blinks) flash control attached (blinks) and set to TTL. Problem • Use a higher ISO sensitivity •...
Page 407 Indicator Control View- panel finder Problem If indicator blinks for 3s — after flash fires, photo (blinks) may be underexposed. Memory insufficient to record further photos at current settings, or (blinks) camera has run out of (blinks) file or folder numbers. Camera malfunction.
Page 408 Indicator Control Monitor panel No memory card. This memory card cannot be used. Card may be damaged. (blinks) Insert another card. (blinks) Memory card is locked. Slide lock to “write” (blinks) position. This card is not formatted. Format the (blinks) card.
Page 409 Indicator Control Monitor panel Failed to update flash unit firmware. Firmware for flash Flash cannot be unit mounted on used. Contact a — camera was not Nikon- updated correctly. authorized service representative. No images on Folder memory card or in contains no —...
Page 410 Indicator Control Monitor panel This movie can — not be edited. — Check printer. — Check paper. — Paper jam. — Out of paper. Check ink — supply. Out of ink. — * See printer manual for more information. Problem •...
Page 411: Specifications
Specifications Nikon D300S Digital Camera Type Type Single-lens reflex digital camera Lens mount Nikon F mount (with AF coupling and AF contacts) Approx. 1.5 × lens focal length (Nikon DX format) Effective picture angle Effective pixels Effective pixels 12.3 million Image sensor 23.6 ×...
Page 412 Storage Dual card slots File system Viewfinder Viewfinder Frame coverage Magnification Eyepoint Diopter adjustment Focusing screen Reflex mirror Depth-of-field preview Lens aperture Lens Compatible lenses Either card can be used for primary or backup storage or for separate storage of copies created using NEF+JPEG;...
Page 413 Shutter Type Electronically-controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter Speed 8000 Flash sync speed (flash range drops at speeds between Release Release mode S (single frame), C (continuous high speed), J (quiet shutter-release), E (self-timer), M • With EN-EL3e: 1–7 fps (C Approximate frame advance rate •...
Page 414 Exposure Flash bracketing White balance bracketing ADL bracketing Exposure lock ISO sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) Active D-Lighting Focus Autofocus Detection range Lens servo Focus point AF-area mode Focus lock Flash Built-in flash 2–9 frames in steps of 2–9 frames in steps of 1, 2, or 3 2 frames using selected value for one frame or 3–5 frames using preset values for all frames Luminosity locked at detected value with AE-L/AF-L...
Page 415 Flash Flash control • TTL: i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR using 1,005-pixel RGB sensor are available with built-in flash and SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-400 • Auto aperture: Available with SB-900 or SB-800 and CPU lens •...
Page 416 Movie Frame size (pixels) File format Compression Audio Monitor Monitor Playback Playback Interface Video output HDMI output Audio input Ten-pin remote terminal Can be used to connect optional remote control, GP-1 Supported languages Supported languages Power source Battery • 1,280 × 720/24 fps •...
Page 417 Power source Battery pack Optional MB-D10 multi-power battery pack with one rechargeable Nikon EN-EL3e, EN-EL4a, or EN-EL4 Li-ion battery or eight AA alkaline, NiMH, lithium, or nickel- manganese batteries; EN-EL4a/EN-EL4 and AA batteries available separately; A BL-3 battery-chamber cover is required when using EN-EL4a or EN-EL4 batteries.
Page 418 Supported Standards • DCF Version 2.0: The Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF) is a standard widely used in the digital camera industry to ensure compatibility among different makes of camera. • DPOF: Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) is an industry-wide standard that allows pictures to be printed from print orders stored on the memory card.
Page 419: Approved Memory Cards
Approved Memory Cards The following cards have been tested and approved for use in the D300S. • Type 1 CompactFlash memory cards Extreme IV Extreme III SanDisk Ultra II Standard Professional UDMA 300 × Professional Lexar Media Platinum II • SD memory cards...
Page 420: 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 IV (SDCFX4) card at different image quality and size settings. Image quality NEF (RAW), Lossless compressed, 12-bit NEF (RAW), Lossless compressed, 14-bit NEF (RAW), Compressed, 12-bit...
Page 421 1 All figures are approximate. File size varies with scene recorded. 2 Maximum number of exposures that can be stored in memory buffer at ISO 200. Drops if Optimal quality is selected for JPEG compression, ISO sensitivity is set to P or higher, High ISO NR is on when auto ISO sensitivity control is on or ISO sensitivity is set to 800 or higher, or long exposure noise reduction, active D- lighting, or image authentication is on.
Page 422: Battery Life
Battery Life The number of shots that can be taken with fully-charged batteries varies with the condition of the battery, temperature, and how the camera is used. In the case of AA batteries, capacity also varies with make and storage conditions; some batteries can not be used. Sample figures for the camera and optional MB-D10 multi-power battery pack are given below.
Page 423 The following can reduce battery life: • Using the monitor • Keeping the shutter-release button pressed halfway • Repeated autofocus operations • Taking NEF (RAW) or TIFF (RGB) photographs • Slow shutter speeds • Using the optional WT-4 wireless transmitter •...
Page 424: Index
Index Symbols K (Single-point AF) ... 76, 77 I (Dynamic-area AF) ... 76, 77, 264 H (Auto-area AF) ... 76, 77 S ... 74, 80, 86, 264 ... 86, 88, 276 ... 86, 88 J... 86 E (Self-timer)... 86, 91 ...
Page 425 Battery... 22, 24, 37, 279, 280, 307 Battery info... 307 Battery order... 280 Battery pack ... 279, 280, 307, 352 Beep ... 275 Black-and-white (Monochrome)... 322 Body cap... 5, 26, 355 Border... 231, 235 Bracketing... 120, 289, 290 Bracketing order... 290 Built-in AF-assist illuminator ...
Page 426 Electronic rangefinder... 84, 340, 342 Ethernet ... 227, 352 EV steps for exposure cntrl..270 Exif version 2.21 ... 167, 392 Exp comp/fine tune... 270 Exposure... 101, 102, 116, 118 Exposure bracketing ... 120, 289, 290 Exposure compensation... 118 Exposure delay mode ...
Page 427 Incandescent (White balance)... 134 Index print ... 236 In-focus indicator ... 43, 74 Information ... 207, 247 Information display ... 12, 278 Interval timer shooting ... 189 ISO sensitivity ... 95, 96, 98 ISO sensitivity auto control... 98 ISO sensitivity settings ... 97 ISO sensitivity step value...
Page 428 NEF (RAW) bit depth ... 70 NEF (RAW) processing ... 327 NEF (RAW) recording ... 70 Neutral (Set Picture Control) ... 154 Nikon Transfer ... 224 No memory card?... 299 No. of copies (PictBridge [Setup] menu)... 230 Non-CPU lens... 195, 342 Non-CPU lens data...
Page 429 SD card slot... 32, 62, 72 SD card slot (Primary slot selection)... 72 SD memory card... 32, 72, 393 Secondary slot function... 72 Self-timer... 86, 91, 273 Sensitivity... 95, 96, 98 Sepia (Monochrome) ... 322 Set Picture Control... 154 Setup menu... 300 Shade (White balance) ...
Page 432 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 Europe SB9G01(11) 6MB05711-01...

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18-55mm - d300s dslr digital camera 25464

Nikon D300S User Manual

Table of Contents

Tutorial

Introduction

Overview

Getting to Know the Camera

Tutorial

Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View)

Recording and Viewing Movies

Image Recording Options

Focus

Release Mode

Exposure

Metering

Exposure Mode

Long Time-Exposures

Autoexposure (AE) Lock

Exposure Compensation

Bracketing

White Balance

Image Enhancement

Flash Photography

Other Shooting Options

More about Playback

Connections

Connecting to a Computer

Printing Photographs

Viewing Photographs on TV

Menu Guide

Technical Notes

Quick Links

Chapters

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Summary of Contents for Nikon D300S