Nikon COOLPIX S550 User Manual
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Nikon COOLPIX S550 User Manual

Olympus digital camera user manual
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Summary of Contents for Nikon COOLPIX S550

  • Page 1 DIGITAL CAMERA User’s Manual...

  • Page 2: Trademark Information

    Trademark Information • Microsoft, Windows and Windows Vista are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. • Macintosh, Mac OS, and QuickTime are trademarks of Apple Inc. • Adobe and Acrobat are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Inc. •...
  • Page 3 Introduction First Steps Basic Photography and Playback: Auto Mode High Sensitivity Mode Shooting Suited for the Scene Smile Mode More on Playback Movies Voice Recordings Connecting to Televisions, Computers and Printers Shooting, Playback and Setup Menus Technical Notes...

  • Page 4: 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, information that should be read before using this Nikon...
  • Page 5 Observe caution when handling the battery The battery may leak or explode if improperly handled. Observe the following precautions when handling the battery for use in this product: • Before replacing the battery, turn the product off. If you are using the AC adapter, be sure it is unplugged.
  • Page 6 For Your Safety Use appropriate cables When connecting cables to the input and output jacks, use only the cables provided or sold by Nikon for the purpose, to maintain compliance with product regulations. Handle moving parts with care Be careful that your fingers or other objects are not pinched by the lens cover or other moving parts.

  • Page 7: Notices

    Notices Notice for Customers in the U.S.A. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference Statement This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
  • Page 8 Notices Notice for customers in Canada CAUTION This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. ATTENTION Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada. Symbol for Separate Collection in European Countries This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately.

  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents For Your Safety ...ii WARNINGS... ii Notices...v Introduction ...1 About This Manual ... 1 Information and Precautions... 2 Parts of the Camera... 4 The Camera Body ...4 The Monitor...6 Basic Operations... 8 The c (Shooting/Playback) Button...8 The e (Mode) Button...8 The Multi Selector...9 The d Button...10 Help Displays...11...
  • Page 10 Table of Contents Taking Pictures with the Self-timer ...30 Macro Mode...31 Exposure Compensation ...32 B High Sensitivity Mode... 33 Shooting in the High Sensitivity Mode ...33 C Shooting Suited for the Scene... 34 Shooting in the Scene Mode ...34 Setting the Scene Mode...34 Features ...35 Taking Pictures for a Panorama ...41 a Smile Mode...
  • Page 11 D Movies ... 61 Recording Movies ...61 The Movie Menu...62 Selecting Movie Options...62 Electronic VR ...63 Autofocus mode ...63 Time-Lapse Movies...64 Movie Playback ...66 Deleting Movie Files...66 E Voice Recordings... 67 Making Voice Recordings...67 Playing Voice Recordings...69 Deleting Sound Files...70 Copying Voice Recordings...71 Connecting to Televisions, Computers and Printers ...
  • Page 12 Table of Contents Playback Options: The Playback Menu ...99 Displaying the Playback Menu...99 b Slide Show... 101 c Delete ... 102 d Protect ... 102 f Rotate Image... 103 h Copy ... 104 Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu... 105 Displaying the Setup Menu...

  • Page 13: Introduction

    Introduction About This Manual Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon COOLPIX S550 digital camera. This manual was written to help you enjoy taking pictures with your Nikon digital camera. Read this manual thoroughly before use, and keep it where all those who use the product will read it.

  • Page 14: Information And Precautions

    Only Nikon brand electronic accessories (including battery chargers, batteries and AC adapters) certified by Nikon specifically for use with this Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within the operational and safety requirements of this electronic circuitry.
  • Page 15 Notice Concerning Prohibition of Copying or Reproduction Note that simply being in possession of material that was 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 reproduced Do not copy or reproduce paper money, coins, securities, government bonds or local government bonds, even if such copies or reproductions are stamped “Sample.”...

  • Page 16: Parts Of The Camera

    Parts of the Camera The Camera Body Shutter-release button...24 Power-on lamp ...20, 116 Power switch...20 Self-timer lamp... 30, 127 AF-assist illuminator... 25, 115, 127 Eyelet for camera strap...11 Built-in flash...28 Lens ...128, 140 Lens cover ...126 Built-in microphone...53, 61, 67 Lens cover closed...

  • Page 17: Battery-Chamber

    Monitor ...6 Multi selector...9 e (mode) button ...8 Zoom buttons ...22 f : wide ...22 g : tele...22 h : thumbnail playback...46 i : playback zoom...47 j : help ...11 Indicator lamp ...67 Flash lamp...29 Tripod socket Speaker...54, 66, 69 Multi connector ...72, 74, 78 Battery-chamber/ memory card slot cover...14, 18...

  • Page 18: The Monitor

    Parts of the Camera The Monitor The following indicators may appear in the monitor during shooting and playback (actual display varies with current camera settings). The information on indicators in the monitor during shooting and playback will display only for a few seconds (A 111). Shooting Shooting mode ...20, 33, 34, 61...
  • Page 19 Playback Date of recording... 16 Time of recording... 16 Volume indicator... 53, 66, 69 Battery level indicator... 20 a Compensated image b Electronic VR not available... 50, 114 Image mode*... 87 Movie options* ... 62 a Current frame number/ total number of frames ... 26 b Movie length ...

  • Page 20: Basic Operations

    Basic Operations The c (Shooting/Playback) Button The e (Mode) Button Shooting-mode Selection Menu Auto mode (A 20) Scene mode (A 34) Setup mode (A 105) Playback-mode Selection Menu Playback mode (A 26) Smile mode (A 59) Press c once in shooting mode to enter playback mode;...

  • Page 21: The Multi Selector

    The Multi Selector This section describes standard uses of the multi selector to select modes, select menu options and to apply selection. For Shooting Display m (flash mode) (A 28) menu or move cursor up. Display n (self-timer) (A 30) menu. Display p (macro mode) (A 31) menu or move cursor down.

  • Page 22: The D Button

    Basic Operations The d Button Press d to display the menu for the selected mode. Use the multi selector to navigate the menus (A 9). To exit the menu display, press d again. Displayed when there are one or more menu items to follow Displayed when AF area mode...

  • Page 23: Help Displays

    Help Displays Press g (j) when M is displayed at the lower right of the menu screen to view a description of the currently selected menu option. To return to the original menu, press g (j) again. Attaching the Camera Strap Shutter-release Button The camera features a two-stage shutter-release button.

  • Page 24: First Steps

    First Steps Charging the Battery The camera uses a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL11 (supplied). Charge the battery with the Battery Charger MH-64 (supplied) before first use or when the battery is running low. It is recommended to charge the battery within six months after it was used. Connect the power cable.

  • Page 25: Note On The Battery

    CHARGE lamp Blinks Battery charging. Battery fully charged. • Battery is incorrectly inserted. Remove and reinsert battery at a low angle as shown in Figure 2-1. • If ambient temperature is not 5 to 35 °C (41 to 95 °F), wait until Flickers temperature is in this range before charging.

  • Page 26: Inserting The Battery

    Inserting the Battery Insert a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL11 (supplied) that has been fully charged, using the Battery Charger MH-64 (supplied), into your camera. Open the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover. Insert the battery. Confirm that the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals are oriented correctly as described on the label at the entrance of the battery chamber, and insert the battery.

  • Page 27: Removing The Battery

    Inserting the Battery Removing the Battery Turn the camera off and make sure that the power-on lamp and the monitor have gone out before opening the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover. To eject the battery, open the battery-chamber/ memory card slot cover and slide the battery latch in the direction shown .

  • Page 28: Setting Display Language, Date And Time

    Setting Display Language, Date and Time A language-selection dialog is displayed the first time the camera is turned on. Press the power switch to turn on the camera. The power-on lamp (green) will light for a moment and the monitor will turn on. Use the multi selector to choose the desired language and press k.
  • Page 29 Select your home time zone (A 110) and press The Date menu is displayed. Change the date and time. • Press H or I to edit the highlighted item. • Press K to move the cursor in the following order. D ->M ->Y ->Hour ->Minute ->D M Y •...

  • Page 30: Inserting Memory Cards

    Inserting Memory Cards Pictures are stored in the camera’s internal memory (approximately 50 MB) or on removable Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (available separately) (A 123). If a memory card is inserted in the camera, pictures are automatically stored on the memory card and pictures recorded to the memory card can be played back, deleted or transferred.

  • Page 31: Removing Memory Cards

    • Do not turn the camera off or open the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover until formatting is complete. • The first time you insert the memory cards used in other devices into the COOLPIX S550, be sure to format them using this camera (A 117).

  • Page 32: A Basic Photography And Playback: Auto Mode

    Basic Photography and Playback: Auto Mode Step 1 Turn the Camera On and Select A (Auto) Mode This section describes how to take pictures in A (auto) mode, an automatic, “point-and-shoot” mode recommended for first-time users of digital cameras. Press the power switch to turn on the camera. The power-on lamp (green) will light for a moment and the monitor will turn on.

  • Page 33: Indicators Displayed In A (Auto) Mode

    Indicators Displayed in A (Auto) Mode Shooting mode A displayed in A (auto) mode. The information on indicators in the monitor during shooting and playback will display only for a few seconds (A 111). Available Functions in A (Auto) Mode In A (auto) mode, macro mode (A 31) and exposure compensation (A 32) can be applied and pictures can be taken using the flash mode (A 28) and self-timer (A 30).

  • Page 34: Step 2 Frame A Picture

    Step 2 Frame a Picture Ready the camera. Hold the camera steadily in both hands, keeping your fingers and other objects away from the lens, flash and self-timer lamp. When taking pictures in “tall” orientation, turn the camera so that the built-in flash is above the lens. Frame the picture.

  • Page 35: Digital Zoom

    Digital Zoom When the camera is zoomed in to the maximum magnification (5×), holding down g (i) triggers digital zoom. The subject is magnified up to 4×, for a total magnification of 20×. The focus area is not displayed when digital zoom is in effect, and focus will be in the center of the screen.

  • Page 36: Step 3 Focus And Shoot

    Step 3 Focus and Shoot Press the shutter-release button halfway. When people's faces (front view) are recognized: Camera will focus on the face surrounded by a double border. Once focus has been locked the double border will glow green. When shooting non-human subjects or when no faces are recognized: Camera automatically selects the focus area (one of nine) containing the subject closest to the camera.

  • Page 37: During Recording

    During Recording While pictures are being recorded, the O (wait) icon will be displayed and the number of exposures remaining or movie length will blink. Do not turn the camera off, open the battery-chamber/ memory card slot cover, or remove or disconnect the power source while these icons are displayed. Cutting power or removing the memory card in these circumstances could result in loss of data or in damage to the camera or card.

  • Page 38: Step 4 Viewing And Deleting Pictures

    Step 4 Viewing and Deleting Pictures Viewing Pictures (Playback Mode) Press c. The last picture taken will be displayed in full-frame playback mode. Use the multi selector H, I, J or K to view additional pictures. Pictures may be displayed briefly at low resolution while being read from the memory card or internal memory.

  • Page 39: Playback Mode

    Playback Mode The following options are available in full-frame playback mode. Option Playback zoom View thumbnails Electronic VR Switch to shooting mode Power on by pressing If the is pressed continuously while the power is OFF, the power will be switched ON and playback mode will be started up.

  • Page 40: Using The Flash

    Using the Flash The flash has a range of 0.3-4.7 m (1-15.4 ft.) when the camera is zoomed out all the way. With maximum optical zoom applied, the range is 0.6-3.1 m (2-10.2 ft.) (in high sensitivity mode). The following flash modes are available. Auto (default setting for A (auto) mode) Flash fires automatically when lighting is poor.
  • Page 41 Red-eye Reduction The COOLPIX S550 is equipped with an advanced red-eye reduction system. Pre-flashes are fired several times at low intensity before the main flash, to reduce “red-eye.” If the camera detects “red- eye”...

  • Page 42: Taking Pictures With The Self-Timer

    Taking Pictures with the Self-timer The camera is equipped with a ten-second and two-second timer for self-portraits. When using the self-timer, use of a tripod is recommended. Press n (self-timer). The self-timer menu is displayed. Use the multi selector to choose 10s or 2s and press k.

  • Page 43: Macro Mode

    Macro Mode Macro mode is used for taking pictures of objects as close as 10 cm (3.9 in.). Note that the flash may be unable to light entire subject at distances of less than 30 cm (11.8 in.). Press p (macro mode). The macro menu is displayed.

  • Page 44: Exposure Compensation

    Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera to make pictures brighter or darker. Press the multi selector o (exposure compensation). The exposure compensation guide is displayed. Use the multi selector to adjust exposure. •...

  • Page 45: B High Sensitivity Mode

    High Sensitivity Mode Shooting in the High Sensitivity Mode In high sensitivity mode, sensitivity is increased when shooting under low lighting, to reduce blurring caused by camera shake or subject movement, allowing you to capture the atmosphere of the scene. ISO sensitivity will be automatically increased to a maximum of 1600, depending upon the brightness of the subject.

  • Page 46: C Shooting Suited For The Scene

    Shooting Suited for the Scene Shooting in the Scene Mode Camera settings are automatically optimized for the selected subject type. The following scene modes are available. b Portrait f Party/indoor c Landscape g Beach/snow d Sports h Sunset e Night portrait i Dusk/dawn Setting the Scene Mode Enter scene mode by pressing e...

  • Page 47: Features

    Features b Portrait Use this mode for portraits in which the main subject stands out clearly. Portrait subjects exhibit smooth, natural-looking skin tones. • Focus will be set on people's faces if it recognizes people's faces (front view). See “Face Priority” (A 96) for more information.
  • Page 48 Shooting in the Scene Mode d Sports Use this mode for dynamic action shots that freeze the action in a single shot and record motion in a series of pictures. • While the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, the camera focuses continuously until focus is acquired and locked.
  • Page 49 g Beach/snow Captures the brightness of such subjects as snowfields, beaches, or sunlit expanses of water. • Camera focuses on subject in center of frame. Off* * Other settings can be selected. h Sunset Preserves the deep hues seen in sunsets and sunrises. •...
  • Page 50 Shooting in the Scene Mode j Night landscape Slow shutter speeds are used to produce stunning night landscapes. • Camera focuses at infinity. When the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, the focus area or focus indicator (A 6) always glows green; however, focus may not be set for near subjects, while the camera focuses at infinity.
  • Page 51 l Museum Use indoors where flash photography is prohibited (for example, in museums and art galleries) or in other settings in which you do not want to use the flash. • Camera focuses on subject in center of frame. • BSS (best shot selector) can be used to shoot. (A 91) •...
  • Page 52 Shooting in the Scene Mode o Back light Use when light is coming from behind your subject, throwing features or details into shadow. The flash fires automatically to “fill in” (illuminate) shadows. • Camera focuses on subject in center of frame. * Other settings can be selected.

  • Page 53: Taking Pictures For A Panorama

    Taking Pictures for a Panorama The camera focuses on the subject in the center of the frame. Use a tripod for best results. Use the multi selector to choose p Panorama assist in the scene menu and press k. The panorama direction icon (I) is displayed to show the direction in which pictures will be joined.

  • Page 54: More Information

    Shooting in the Scene Mode Press k when shooting is completed. The camera returns to step 2. Panorama Assist Flash mode (A 28), self-timer (A 30), macro mode (A 31) and exposure compensation (A 32) settings cannot be adjusted after the first picture is taken. Pictures cannot be deleted, nor can zoom or image-mode setting (A 87) be adjusted until the series is finalized.

  • Page 55: Shooting In The Smile Mode

    Smile Mode Shooting in the Smile Mode The camera detects a smiling face to shoot the face automatically. Enter smile mode by pressing e in shooting mode, selecting a (use the multi selector), and then pressing k. Frame a picture. •...
  • Page 56 Shooting in the Smile Mode Face Priority and Smiling Face Detection features When the camera is pointed at a people’s face (front face) in the smile mode, the face is automatically recognized and the smiling face of the recognized one is detected. •...

  • Page 57: The Smile Menu

    The Smile Menu The following item can be set in the smile menu. For displaying the smile menu, press d in the smile mode. Image mode Choose an image size and quality (A 87). Changes made to the settings in the image mode apply to all shooting modes. Face recognition When ON (default setting) is selected, the camera gives priority to the smiling face of the people registered in Add to list to detect and the shutter is released.

  • Page 58: More On Playback

    More on Playback Viewing Multiple Pictures: Thumbnail Playback Press f (h) in full-frame playback mode (A 26) to display pictures in “contact sheets” of thumbnail images. The following operations can be performed while thumbnails are displayed. Choose pictures Change number of pictures displayed Cancel thumbnail playback Switch to shooting mode...

  • Page 59: Taking A Closer Look: Playback Zoom

    Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom Pressing g (i) during full-frame playback mode (A 26) zooms the current picture in 3×, with the center of the picture displayed in the monitor. • The guide displayed in the right bottom in the monitor will show which part of the image is currently displayed.

  • Page 60: Editing Pictures

    • The COOLPIX S550 editing functions are not available for pictures taken with non-COOLPIX S550 digital cameras. • If a copy created using the COOLPIX S550 is viewed on a different digital camera, the picture may not be displayed or may not be transferred to a computer.

  • Page 61: Enhancing Brightness And Contrast: D-Lighting

    Enhancing Brightness and Contrast: D-Lighting D-Lighting can be used to create copies with enhanced brightness and contrast, brightening dark portions of a picture. Enhanced copies are stored as separate files. Select the desired picture from full-frame (A 26) or thumbnail (A 46) playback mode and press d.

  • Page 62: Compensating Blurring After Shooting: Electronic Vr

    Editing Pictures Compensating Blurring After Shooting: Electronic VR Blurring in pictures shot without electronic VR enabled, and marked with S (electronic VR guide) in full-frame playback mode, can be compensated with electronic VR after shooting. When electronic VR is applied to pictures after they are shot, compensated copies are stored as separate files.

  • Page 63: Creating A Cropped Copy: Crop

    Creating a Cropped Copy: Crop This function is only available when u is displayed in the monitor with playback zoom (A 47) enabled. Cropped copies are stored as separate files. Press g (i) in full-frame playback mode to zoom in on the image. •...

  • Page 64: Resizing Pictures: Small Picture

    Editing Pictures g Resizing Pictures: Small Picture Create a small copy of the current picture. Small copies are stored as JPEG files with a compression ratio of 1:16. The following sizes are available. Option l 640×480 Suited to television playback. m 320×240 Suited to display on web pages.

  • Page 65: Voice Memos: Recording And Playback

    Voice Memos: Recording and Playback Use the camera’s built-in microphone to record voice memos for pictures. Recording Voice Memos Select the desired picture from full-frame playback mode (A 26) and press d. The playback menu is displayed. Use the multi selector to choose Voice memo and press k.

  • Page 66: Playing Voice Memos

    • If a voice memo already exists for the current picture, it must be deleted before a new voice memo can be recorded. • The COOLPIX S550 cannot be used to attach voice memos to pictures shot with cameras other than the COOLPIX S550.

  • Page 67: Viewing Pictures By Date

    Viewing Pictures by Date In calendar mode or list by date mode, pictures taken on a specified date can be displayed. In full-frame playback mode, just as with playback mode, picture display can be enlarged, pictures can be edited, voice memos can be recorded or played back, and movies can be played back.

  • Page 68: Selecting A Date In List By Date Mode

    Viewing Pictures by Date Selecting a Date in List by Date Mode Enter list by date mode by pressing e in playback mode, selecting C (use the multi selector), and then pressing k. Dates for which pictures exist will be listed. Choose the desired date and press k.

  • Page 69: Using Calendar Mode And List By Date Mode

    Using Calendar Mode and List by Date Mode The following operations are possible from the date selection screen. Select date Select month f (h) (calendar mode g (i) only) Switch to full- frame playback Delete picture View calendar or list by date menu View playback- mode menu Switch to...

  • Page 70: Calendar And List By Date Menus

    Viewing Pictures by Date Calendar and List by Date Menus Press d in either mode to display the following menus for only the pictures taken on the specified date. D-Lighting* Print set Slide show Delete Protect Rotate image* Small pic.* Voice memo* * During full-frame playback only When d is pressed in the date selection screen (A 55, 56), options can be...

  • Page 71: Viewing Smile Pictures

    Viewing Smile Pictures Only the pictures shot in the smile mode (A 43) will be played back. Viewing Pictures Shooting in the Smile Mode Enter smile mode by pressing e in playback mode, selecting a (use the multi selector), and then pressing k.

  • Page 72: Smile Menu In Playback Mode

    Viewing Smile Pictures Smile Menu in Playback Mode Press d while the pictures are played back in the smile mode to display the following menu. D-Lighting Print set Slide show Rotate image Notes on Smile Mode during Playing back Up to 999 pictures from that shot in the oldest day can be displayed in smile playback mode. A 49 A 83 A 101...

  • Page 73: D Movies

    Movies Recording Movies To shoot movies with sound recorded via the built-in microphone, select shooting mode and follow the steps below. Enter movie mode by pressing e in shooting mode, selecting D (use the multi selector), and then pressing k. The maximum length of the movie that can be recorded and the movie options (A 62) icon are displayed in the monitor.

  • Page 74: The Movie Menu

    The Movie Menu Movie options, Electronic VR or Autofocus mode (A 63) settings can be changed from the movie menu. Press d in movie mode to display the movie menu and use the multi selector to modify and apply settings. Selecting Movie Options The movie menu offers the options shown below.

  • Page 75: Electronic Vr

    Electronic VR Enable or disable electronic VR for movie recording. Option x On Reduce the effects of camera shake in all movie modes except (default setting) Time-lapse movieP. k Off Electronic VR is not enabled. At settings other than Off, the electronic vibration reduction icon is displayed in the monitor (A 6).

  • Page 76: Time-Lapse Movies

    The Movie Menu Time-Lapse Movies Record flowers opening or butterflies emerging from cocoons. Use the multi selector to choose Movie options from the movie menu and press k. Choose Time-lapse movieP and press k. Choose the interval between shots and press Choose from intervals between 30 seconds and 60 minutes.
  • Page 77 Time-Lapse Movie • Flash mode (A 28), macro mode (A 31), and exposure compensation (A 32) cannot be adjusted after the first picture is taken. Apply the appropriate settings before shooting begins. • To prevent the camera from turning off unexpectedly during recording, use a fully charged battery or the AC Adapter EH-62E (sold separately).

  • Page 78: Movie Playback

    Movie Playback In full-frame playback mode (A 26), movies are recognized by the Movie options icon (A 62). To play a movie, display it in full-frame playback mode and press Use the zoom buttons to adjust playback volume. Playback controls appear at the top of the monitor. Press the multi selector J or K to choose a control, then press k to perform the selected operation.

  • Page 79: E Voice Recordings

    Voice Recordings Making Voice Recordings Audio voice recordings can be recorded over the built-in microphone and played back over the built-in speaker. Enter voice recording mode by pressing e in shooting mode, selecting E (use the multi selector), and then pressing k. The length of recording that can be made will be displayed.

  • Page 80: Operations During Recording

    Making Voice Recordings Operations During Recording Recording indicator File number Length of recording Progress indicator Reactivate the monitor Pause/resume recording Create index* End recording * The copied files can be played back using QuickTime or any other WAV-compatible audio player. Note that index points created with the camera cannot be used when voice recordings are played back on computers.

  • Page 81: Playing Voice Recordings

    Playing Voice Recordings Enter sound file playback mode by pressing e in playback mode, selecting E (use the multi selector), and then pressing k. Voice recordings can also be played back by pressing c in voice recording mode (A 67) to display the select sound file screen.

  • Page 82: Operations During Playback

    Playing Voice Recordings Operations During Playback Control icons File number Playback time Progress indicator Index Use the zoom buttons to adjust playback volume. Playback controls appear at the top of the monitor. Press the multi selector J or K to choose a control, then press k to perform the selected operation. The following operations are available.

  • Page 83: Copying Voice Recordings

    Copying starts. Voice Recordings The COOLPIX S550 may be unable to play or copy sound files created with another make of camera. No sound file. Message If there are no sound files stored on the memory card when E is selected (A 69, step 1), the message No sound file.

  • Page 84: Connecting To Televisions, Computers And Printers

    Connecting to Televisions, Computers and Printers Connecting to a TV Connect the camera to a television using the supplied audio video/USB cable to play back pictures on the television. Turn off the camera. Connect the camera to the TV using the supplied audio video/USB cable.

  • Page 85: Connecting To A Computer

    If the AC Adapter EH-62E that is sold separately is used, COOLPIX S550 can be charged using the home electrical outlet. Do not use any other AC adapters as it will cause the camera to heat up or...

  • Page 86: Transferring Pictures From A Camera To A Computer

    Connecting to a Computer Transferring Pictures from a Camera to a Computer Start the computer to which Nikon Transfer was installed. Turn off the camera. Connect the camera to the computer using the supplied audio video/ USB cable. Turn on the camera. Windows Vista When the AutoPlay dialog is displayed, select Copy pictures to a folder on my computer using Nikon...
  • Page 87 Transfer pictures when Nikon Transfer has finished loading. Click Start Transfer in Nikon Transfer. At the default setting, all pictures are transferred to the computer. At the Nikon Transfer default setting, the folder to which pictures are transferred is automatically opened when transfer is complete. For more information on using Nikon Transfer, refer to help information contained in Nikon Transfer.
  • Page 88 Connecting to a Computer Using Standard OS Operations to Open Camera Files • Navigate to the folder on the computer’s hard disk to which pictures were saved and open a picture in the viewer supplied with your operating system. • Sound files copied to the computer can be played back using QuickTime or any other WAV- compatible audio player.

  • Page 89: Connecting To A Printer

    If the AC Adapter EH-62E that is sold separately is used, COOLPIX S550 can be charged using the home electrical outlet. Do not use any other AC adapters as it will cause the camera to heat up or malfunction.

  • Page 90: Connecting The Camera And Printer

    Connecting to a Printer Connecting the Camera and Printer Turn off the camera. Turn on the printer. Check printer settings. Connect the camera to the printer using the supplied audio video/USB cable. Turn on the camera. When connected correctly, the PictBridge startup screen 1 will be displayed in the camera monitor.

  • Page 91: Printing Pictures One At A Time

    Printing Pictures One at a Time After connecting the camera to the printer correctly (A 78), print pictures by following the procedure below. Use the multi selector to choose the desired picture and press k. Press f (h) to display 12 thumbnails, and g (i) to switch back to full-frame playback.

  • Page 92: Printing Multiple Pictures

    Connecting to a Printer Choose Start print and press k. Printing starts. Monitor display returns to that shown in step 1 when printing is complete. To cancel before all copies have been printed, press k. Printing Multiple Pictures After connecting the camera to the printer correctly (A 78), print pictures by following the procedure below.
  • Page 93 Choose Print selection, Print all images or DPOF printing and press k. Print selection Choose the pictures and number of copies (up to nine) of each. Press the multi selector J or K to select pictures, and press H or I to set the number of copies for each.

  • Page 94: Paper Size

    Connecting to a Printer DPOF printing Print pictures for which a print order was created in Print set (A 83). • The menu shown at right will be displayed. • To print, choose Start print and press k. • Choose Cancel and press k to return to the print menu.

  • Page 95: Creating A Dpof Print Order: Print Set

    Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set The Print set option in the playback menu is used to create digital “print orders” for printing on DPOF-compatible devices (A 143). When the camera is connected to a PictBridge-compatible printer, pictures can be printed from the printer according to the DPOF print order you have created for pictures on the memory card.

  • Page 96: Date Imprint

    Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set Choose whether or not to also print shooting date and photo information. Choose Date and press k to print date of recording on all pictures in the print order. Choose Info and press k to print photo information (shutter speed and aperture) on all pictures in the print order.

  • Page 97: Shooting, Playback And Setup Menus

    Shooting, Playback and Setup Menus Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu The shooting menu and high sensitivity menu contain the following options. Image mode Choose image size and quality. White balance Match white balance to the light source. Continuous Change settings for Continuous or BSS (best shot selector). ISO sensitivity Control camera’s sensitivity to light.

  • Page 98: Displaying The Shooting Menu And High Sensitivity Menu

    Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu Displaying the Shooting Menu and High sensitivity Menu Enter A (auto) or high sensitivity shooting mode by pressing e in shooting mode, selecting A (auto) or B (high sensitivity), and then pressing k. Press d to display the shooting menu or high sensitivity menu.

  • Page 99: A Image Mode

    A Image Mode Pictures taken with a digital camera are recorded as image files. The size of the files, and with it the number of images that can be recorded, depends on the size and quality of the images. Before shooting, choose an image mode according to how you plan to use the picture.

  • Page 100: Number Of Exposures Remaining

    Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu Number of Exposures Remaining The following table lists the approximate number of pictures that can be stored in internal memory and on a 256 MB memory card. Note that the number of pictures that can be stored will differ depending on the composition of the picture (due to JPEG compression).

  • Page 101: B White Balance

    B White Balance 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 102: Preset Manual

    Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu Preset Manual Preset manual is used with mixed lighting or to compensate for light sources with a strong color cast (for example, to make pictures taken under a lamp with a red shade look as though they had been taken under white light). Place a white or gray reference object under the lighting that will be used during shooting.

  • Page 103: C Continuous

    C Continuous Change settings to Continuous or BSS (best shot selector). Flash will be switched off for Continuous, BSS or Multi-shot 16 fixed at the values for the first picture in each series. Single (default setting) One shot is taken each time shutter-release button is pressed. Continuous While the shutter-release button is held down, up to 8 pictures are taken at a rate of about 1.0 frames per second (fps) when Image mode is set to i Normal (3648).

  • Page 104: Interval Timer Photography

    Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu Interval Timer Photography Pictures are taken automatically at specified intervals. Choose from intervals between 30 seconds and 60 minutes. Use the multi selector to choose Intvl timer shooting in the Continuous menu, and press Choose interval between shots and press k. Press d.

  • Page 105: E Iso Sensitivity

    E ISO Sensitivity Sensitivity is a measure of how quickly the camera reacts to light. The higher the sensitivity, the less light needed to make an exposure. Although a high ISO rating is suited for taking pictures of subjects in action or in poor lighting, high sensitivity is often associated with “noise”...

  • Page 106: G Af Area Mode

    Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu G AF Area Mode Use this option to determine where the camera focuses. When digital zoom is in effect, focus will be on the center of the screen regardless of the settings used. Face priority (default setting) When the camera recognizes a face (front view), the camera will focus on that face.
  • Page 107 Center Camera focuses on subject in center of frame. Center focus area is used. Focus Lock To focus on off-center subjects when Center is selected for AF area mode, use focus lock as described below. Position the subject in the center of the frame. Press the shutter-release button halfway.

  • Page 108: Face Priority

    Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu Face Priority When the camera is pointed at a people’s face, the camera automatically recognizes the face and will focus on it. In the following cases, the face priority feature will take effect. • When AF area mode is set to Face priority (default setting) (A 94) •...

  • Page 109: Q Distortion Control

    Notes about Face Priority • In Face priority or the smile mode, if the shutter-release button is pressed halfway when no faces are recognized, AF area mode will be set to Auto. • In the Portrait and Night portrait settings of scene mode, if the shutter-release button is pressed halfway when no faces are recognized, focus will be set on the center of the screen.

  • Page 110: Restrictions On Camera Settings

    Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu Restrictions on Camera Settings Restrictions apply to the following settings in A (auto) mode. Flash mode Flash turns off at Continuous settings of Continuous, BSS or Multi-shot 16. Applied setting is restored when Single or Intvl timer shooting is selected. Self-timer If self-timer is on, only one shot will be taken when shutter is released, regardless of settings chosen for Continuous.

  • Page 111: Playback Options: The Playback Menu

    Playback Options: The Playback Menu The playback menu contains the following options. D-Lighting Enhances brightness and contrast in dark portions of pictures. Print set Select pictures to print and the number of copies for each. Slide show View pictures stored in the internal memory or on a memory card in an automatic slide show.

  • Page 112: Selecting Multiple Pictures

    Playback Options: The Playback Menu Selecting Multiple Pictures The screen shown at right will be displayed in the menus (shown below) when choosing pictures. Smile menu: Remove from list (A 45) Playback menu: Print set (A 83), Delete (A 102), Protect (A 102), Rotate image (A 103), Picture Copy (A 104) Setup menu: Welcome screen (A 107)

  • Page 113: Slide Show

    b Slide Show Play back pictures, stored in the internal memory or on a memory card, one by one in an automated “slide show.” Use the multi selector to choose Start and press k. To change the interval between pictures, choose Frame intvl, select the desired interval time, and press k before choosing Start.

  • Page 114: Delete

    Playback Options: The Playback Menu c Delete Delete selected pictures or all pictures. Erase selected images Delete selected pictures (A 100). Erase all images Delete all pictures. Notes on Deletion • Once deleted, pictures cannot be recovered. Transfer important images to a computer before deletion.

  • Page 115: Rotate Image

    Playback Options: The Playback Menu f Rotate Image Set the picture orientation (vertical or horizontal frame) displayed on the camera monitor after the pictures are taken. Pictures can be rotated 90° clockwise or counterclockwise. When the image that can be rotated in the picture selection screen (A 100) is selected, the Rotate image screen appears.

  • Page 116: Copy

    Playback Options: The Playback Menu h Copy Copy pictures between the internal memory and a memory card. Select an option from the copy screen using the multi selector and press k. q: Copy pictures from internal memory to memory card. r: Copy pictures from memory card to internal memory.

  • Page 117: Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu

    Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu The setup menu contains the following options. Menus Choose how menus are displayed. Welcome screen Select screen displayed when camera is turned on. Date Set camera clock and choose home and destination time zones. Monitor settings Adjust monitor brightness and choose display style.

  • Page 118: Displaying The Setup Menu

    Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu Displaying the Setup Menu First, display the playback-mode or shooting-mode selection menu by pressing e. Then select F (use the multi selector), and press k. Set up • Use the multi selector to choose and apply settings (A 9). •...

  • Page 119: Welcome Screen

    c Welcome Screen You can select the welcome screen to be displayed when the camera is turned on. None (default setting) No welcome screen will be displayed. COOLPIX Displays a welcome screen Select an image Select a picture in the internal memory or on the memory card for the welcome screen.

  • Page 120: Date

    Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu d Date Set the camera clock and choose home and travel destination time zones. Date Set camera clock to current date and time. See “Setting Display Language, Date and Time” (A 17) for more information. Time zone w (home time zone) can be specified and daylight saving enabled or disabled from Time zone options.
  • Page 121 Press K. The travel distination menu is displayed. Choose the travel destination time zone and press k. The setting is enabled. While the travel destination time zone is selected, the x icon will be displayed in the monitor when the camera is in shooting mode.
  • Page 122 Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu Time Zones (A 17) The camera supports the time zones listed below.For time differences not listed below, set the camera clock to local time. The table contains some locations that are not displayed on the camera’s time zone map.

  • Page 123: Monitor Settings

    e Monitor Settings Choose whether or not to display information in the monitor, and set the monitor brightness. Photo info Choose information displayed in monitor during shooting and playback mode. Brightness Choose from five settings for monitor brightness. The default setting is 3. Photo Info The following display options are available.

  • Page 124: Date Imprint

    Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu f Date Imprint Date and time are imprinted on pictures. Date can be printed from printers that do not support the date imprinting (A 84). Off (default setting) Date and time are not imprinted on pictures. Date Date is imprinted on the bottom right corner of pictures taken while this option is in effect.
  • Page 125 Date Counter Pictures taken while this option is in effect are imprinted with the number of days remaining until, or the number of days elapsed since a specified date. Use it to track the growth of a child or count down the days until a birthday or wedding. Stored dates Up to three dates can be stored.

  • Page 126: Electronic Vr

    Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu w Electronic VR Specify the electronic vibration reduction setting for shooting still pictures. Auto (default setting) The effects of camera shake and blurred subjects are reduced while pictures are shot under the following conditions: •...

  • Page 127: Af Assist

    h AF Assist Change settings for AF-assist illumination. Auto (default setting) AF-assist illumination will be used to assist the focus operation when the subject is poorly lit. Note that for some scene modes, AF-assist illumination turns off automatically. Disable this function. The camera may be unable to focus if lighting is poor. u Digital Zoom Adjust settings for using digital zoom.

  • Page 128: Sound Settings

    Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu i Sound Settings Adjust the following sound settings. Button sound Turn button sound On or Off. When On (default setting) is selected, a beep will sound once when operations are completed successfully, two times when focus has been locked, and three times when an error is detected , and welcome sound.

  • Page 129: Format Memory/M Format Card

    • Do not turn the camera off, disconnect the AC adapter, or open the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover during formatting. • The first time you insert the memory cards used in other devices into the COOLPIX S550, be sure to format them using this camera.

  • Page 130: Language

    Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu n Language Choose one of 24 languages for display of camera menus and messages. Czech Danish German (default setting) Spanish Greek French Indonesian Italian Hungarian Dutch Norwegian o Video Mode Adjust settings for connection to a television. Choose from NTSC and PAL. d Blink Warning Set whether or not to detect human subjects with eyes closed when shooting pictures in the face priority (A 96).
  • Page 131 Operating the Blink Warning Screen When the camera detects any human subjects with closed eyes, One or more subjects may have closed their eyes. message is displayed and then, the screen shown in the right will appear. The following operations are available in the blink warning screen.

  • Page 132: Reset All

    Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu p Reset All When Reset is selected, the camera’s settings will be restored to their default values. Pop-up Menu Option Flash mode (A 28) Self-timer (A 30) Macro mode (A 31) Exposure compensation (A 32) Scene Mode Option Scene menu (A 34)

  • Page 133: Setup Menu

    Smile Menu Option Face recognition (A 45) Setup Menu Option Menus (A 106) Welcome screen (A 107) Photo info (A 111) Brightness (A 111) Date imprint (A 112) Electronic VR (A 114) AF assist (A 115) Digital zoom (A 115) Button sound (A 116) Shutter sound (A 116) Auto off (A 116)

  • Page 134: Firmware Version

    Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu r Firmware Version View the current camera firmware version. COOLPIX S550 ver. X.X Back Firmware version...

  • Page 135: Technical Notes

    Audio Video/USB Cable Audio Video/USB Cable UC-E12 Approved Memory Cards The following memory cards have been tested and approved for use in the COOLPIX S550. All cards of the designated make and capacity can be used, regardless of speed. SanDisk...

  • Page 136: Image/Sound File

    Image/Sound File Image/Sound File and Folder Names Pictures, movies, voice memos and voice recordings are assigned file names as follows. Identifier (not shown on camera monitor) Original still pictures (voice memo attachment included), movies, voice memos, voice recordings Pictures compensated in electronic VR (voice memo attachment included) Cropped copies (voice memo...

  • Page 137: Cropped Image Size

    Cropped Image Size Depending on the size of the original picture and the zoom ratio in effect at the time the copy was created, the camera will automatically select one of the following image-mode settings for cropped copies (unit: pixels) (A 51). •...

  • Page 138: Caring For The Camera

    Caring for the Camera To ensure continued enjoyment of this Nikon product, observe the following precautions when using or storing the device: Keep dry The device will be damaged if immersed in water or subjected to high humidity. Do not drop The product may malfunction if subjected to strong shock or vibration.

  • Page 139: The Battery

    The Self-timer Lamp/AF-assist Illuminator LED The light-emitting diode (LED; A 4, 30, 115) used in the self-timer lamp/AF-assist illuminator conforms to the following IEC standard: The Battery • Check the battery level when taking the camera out, and charge the battery if necessary. Do not continue charging once the battery is fully charged, as this will result in reduced battery performance.

  • Page 140: Cleaning

    Caring for the Camera Cleaning Avoid touching glass parts with your fingers. Remove dust or lint with a blower (typically a small device with a rubber bulb attached to one end that is pumped to produce a stream of air out the other end). To remove fingerprints Lens or other stains that cannot be removed with a blower, wipe the lens with a soft cloth, using a spiral motion that starts at the center of the lens and working...

  • Page 141: Storage

    Storage Turn the camera off when not in use. Check that the power-on lamp is off before putting the camera away. Remove the battery if the camera will not be used for an extended period. Do not store the camera with naptha or camphor moth balls, or in any of the following locations: •...

  • Page 142: Error Messages

    Error Messages The following table lists the error messages and other warnings displayed in the monitor, as well as the solutions for dealing with them. Display O (blinks) Battery exhausted. Battery temperature high Q (● blinks red) Please wait for the camera to finish recording.
  • Page 143 Display Memory card has not been Card is not formatted. formatted for use in Format card? COOLPIX S550. Memory card is full. Out of memory. Error occurred while recording picture. Image cannot be saved. Camera has run out of file numbers.
  • Page 144 The copy option screen or copy sound file screen will be displayed. File not created with View file on computer or COOLPIX S550. other device. Date and time are not set for pictures to be displayed in calendar mode or list by date mode.
  • Page 145 Display Running out of ink or Printer error: check printer error. printer status. Specified size of paper is Printer error: check not loaded in printer. paper Paper has jammed in the Printer error: paper printer. No paper is loaded in Printer error: out of printer.

  • Page 146: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If the camera fails to function as expected, check the list of common problems below before consulting your retailer or Nikon-authorized service representative. Refer to the page numbers in the right-most column for more information. Display, Settings and Power Supply Problem Monitor is blank Monitor is hard to read...
  • Page 147 Problem Electronic VR will automatically be set to OFF Camera settings reset Monitor turns off, and the power-on lamp and flash lamp blink rapidly. Electronically Controlled Cameras In extremely rare instances, unusual characters may appear in the monitor and the camera may stop functioning.
  • Page 148 Troubleshooting Shooting Problem No picture taken when shutter- release button is pressed. Camera cannot focus. Pictures are blurred. Bright specks appear in pictures taken with flash. Flash does not fire. Optical zoom cannot be used. Digital zoom cannot be used. Cause/Solution •...
  • Page 149 Problem Image mode not available. No sound when shutter is released. AF-assist illuminator does not light. Pictures appear smeared. Colors are unnatural. Randomly spaced bright pixels (“noise”) appear in image. Pictures are too dark (underexposed). Pictures are too bright (overexposed). Unexpected results when flash set to V (auto with red-eye reduction).
  • Page 150 Troubleshooting Playback Problem File cannot be played back. Cannot zoom in on picture. Cannot record voice memo. Cannot use D-Lighting, Electronic VR, crop, or small picture options. Pictures not displayed on television. Nikon Transfer does not start when camera is connected. Cause/Solution •...
  • Page 151 Problem Pictures to be printed are not displayed. Cannot select paper size with camera. Cause/Solution Memory card contains no pictures. Replace memory card. Remove memory card to print pictures from internal memory. Paper size cannot be selected from the camera if the printer does not support the paper sizes used by the camera, or the printer automatically selects the paper size.

  • Page 152: Specifications

    Specifications Nikon COOLPIX S550 Digital Camera Type Effective pixels Image sensor Lens Focal length f/-number Construction Digital zoom Vibration reduction Autofocus (AF) Focus range (from lens) Focus-area selection AF-assist illumination Monitor Frame coverage (shooting mode) Frame coverage (playback mode) Storage...
  • Page 153 ISO sensitivity (Standard ISO 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 2000, Auto output sensitivity) (auto gain from ISO 64 to 800) Exposure Metering 256-segment matrix, center-weighted (digital zoom less than 2×), spot (digital zoom 2× or more) Exposure control Programmed auto exposure with exposure compensation (–2.0 to +2.0 EV in steps of Range [W]: 3.7 to 15.5 EV...

  • Page 154: Battery Charger Mh

    Specifications * Based on Camera and Imaging Products Association (CIPA) standards for measuring the life of camera batteries. Measured at 23 °C (73 °F); zoom adjusted with each shot, flash fired with every other shot, image mode set to i Normal (3648). Battery life may vary depending on shooting interval and length of time menus and images are displayed.

  • Page 155: Supported Standards

    Exif-compliant printers. • PictBridge: A standard developed cooperatively by the digital camera and printer industries, allowing photographs to be output directly to a printer without connecting the camera to a computer.

  • Page 156: A Smile Mode

    Index Symbols R 42 f button 5, 22, 27, 46, 47, 55, 57, 59 h button 5, 22, 27, 46, 47, 55, 57, 59 g button 5, 11, 22, 27, 46, 47, 55, 57, 59 i button 5, 22, 27, 46, 47, 55, 57, 59 j button 5, 11 k Apply selection button 5, 9 E Sound file playback mode 69...
  • Page 157 Daylight 89 Daylight saving time 16, 109 Delete 102 Digital zoom 23, 115 Direct print 77 Distortion control 97 D-Lighting 48, 49 DPOF 143 DPOF print 82 DSCN 124 Dusk/dawn i 37 Electronic VR 21, 50, 63, 114 EN-EL11 12, 14 Exposure compensation 32 Extension 124 Eyelet for camera strap 4...
  • Page 158 Index Multi-shot 16 91 Musuem l 39 Night landscape j 38 Night Portrait e 36 Noise reduction 36, 37, 38 Number of Exposures Remaining 20, 88 Optical zoom 22 Optional Accessories 123 Panorama assist p 40, 41 Paper size 79, 80 Party/indoor f 36 Photo info 111 PictBridge 77, 143...
  • Page 159 Index Video Mode 72, 118 Vivid color 93 Voice memo 53 Volume 66, 70 VSCN 124 WAV 124 Welcome screen 107 White balance 89 Zoom 22 Zoom button 5, 22, 66, 70...
  • Page 164 No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorization from NIKON CORPORATION. Printed in Japan CT8A01(11) 6MMA3711-01...

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