Nikon 25492 Reference Manual

Nikon 25492 Reference Manual

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Summary of Contents for Nikon 25492

  • Page 1 DIGITAL CAMERA Reference Manual...
  • Page 2 Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. To get the most from your camera, please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly and keep them where they will be read by all who use the product.
  • Page 3 Where to Find It Find what you’re looking for from: The Table of Contents .... 0 Error Messages......0 The Q&A Index......0 Troubleshooting ..... 0 The Index ........ 0 Introduction 0 21 Basic Photography 0 27 Guide Mode 0 31 More on Photography (All Modes) 0 53 P, S, A, and M Modes...
  • Page 4 Q&A Index Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index. Taking Photographs Shooting Modes and Framing Options Is there a quick and easy way to take snapshots? 22–24 How do I use the g position on the mode dial? 27–30 How do I quickly adjust settings for different scenes? 25–26...
  • Page 5 Retouching Photographs How do I create retouched copies of photos? 149–165 How do I remove “red-eye”? How do I make JPEG copies of RAW (NEF) photos? Can I overlay two NEF (RAW) photos to make a single image? 155–156 Can I create a copy of a photo that looks like a painting? Can I trim movie footage on the camera or save movie stills? 93–96 Menus and Settings...
  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Q&A Index ............................ ii For Your Safety .......................... ix Notices............................xi Introduction Getting to Know the Camera....................1 The Camera Body ........................1 The Mode Dial..........................3 The Viewfinder..........................4 The Information Display......................5 The Command Dial ........................7 Camera Menus..........................9 Using Camera Menus ......................
  • Page 7 More on Photography (All Modes) Release Mode ..........................31 Self-Timer and Remote Control Modes ................33 Focus ............................35 Focus Mode..........................35 AF-Area Mode ..........................38 Focus Point Selection ......................40 Focus Lock ..........................40 Manual Focus ...........................42 Image Quality and Size ......................44 Image Quality ...........................44 Image Size..........................46 Using the Built-in Flash......................47 Flash Mode ..........................48 ISO Sensitivity..........................51...
  • Page 8 Recording and Viewing Movies Recording Movies........................88 Movie Settings......................... 90 Viewing Movies ........................92 Editing Movies ..........................93 Trimming Movies........................93 Saving Selected Frames ....................... 96 Playback and Deletion Full-Frame Playback........................97 Photo Information........................98 Thumbnail Playback ......................102 Calendar Playback ........................ 103 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom................104 Protecting Photographs from Deletion................
  • Page 9 C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options ................127 Reset Shooting Menu ....................128 ISO Sensitivity Settings....................129 Auto Distortion Control ....................130 Color Space........................130 Noise Reduction....................... 131 Built-in AF-assist Illuminator ..................131 Flash Cntrl for Built-in Flash..................132 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup ..................133 Reset Setup Options.......................
  • Page 10 Compatible Lenses....................... 167 Compatible CPU Lenses .....................167 Compatible Non-CPU Lenses ...................169 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)................. 172 The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)..............173 Other Accessories......................... 176 Approved Memory Cards ....................177 Attaching a Power Connector and AC Adapter............178 Caring for the Camera......................179 Storage .............................179...
  • Page 11: For Your Safety

    For Your Safety To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others, read the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equipment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them.
  • Page 12 When connecting cables to the input and metal objects such as necklaces or output jacks, use only the cables hairpins. provided or sold by Nikon for the • Batteries are prone to leakage when purpose to maintain compliance with fully discharged. To avoid damage to product regulations.
  • Page 13: Notices

    Notices • No part of the manuals included with this • Nikon will not be held liable for any product may be reproduced, transmitted, damages resulting from the use of this transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or product. translated into any language in any form, •...
  • Page 14 Nikon may cause harmful interference to radio Corporation may void the user’s authority to communications.
  • Page 15 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 16 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 17: Introduction

    Introduction Getting to Know the Camera Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with camera controls and displays. You may find it helpful to bookmark this section and refer to it as you read through the rest of the manual. The Camera Body Mode dial........3 Built-in flash ......
  • Page 18 The Camera Body (Continued) Viewfinder eyepiece..... 34 Tripod socket Memory card access lamp ......... 18, 23 Rubber eyecup Diopter adjustment control ........20 Power connector cover for Infrared receiver (rear) ..33 optional power connector A/L button Monitor ..........178 Using the A (L) button Viewing settings....5 ........
  • Page 19: The Mode Dial

    The Mode Dial The camera offers a choice of the following shooting modes and g mode: P, S, A, and M Modes Select these modes for full control over camera settings. • P—Programmed auto (0 54) g Mode (0 27) •...
  • Page 20: The Viewfinder

    The Viewfinder Focus points ......40 Number of exposures Flash-ready indicator....24 remaining ......21 Focus indicator ....23, 42 Flexible program Number of shots remaining indicator .......54 Autoexposure (AE) lock before memory buffer indicator....... 61 Exposure indicator ....57 fills ......... 32 Exposure compensation Shutter speed ....55, 57 White balance recording...
  • Page 21: The Information Display

    The Information Display Camera settings can be viewed and adjusted in the information display. Press the P button once to view settings, and again to make changes to settings. Highlight items using the multi selector and press J to view options for the highlighted item. P button 10 11 12 13 Shooting mode...
  • Page 22 Hiding Shooting Information To turn the monitor off, press the R button. Note that the monitor turns off automatically while the shutter-release button is pressed or if no operations are performed for about 8 s (for information on choosing how long the monitor stays on, see Auto off timers on page 140).
  • Page 23: The Command Dial

    The Command Dial The command dial can be used with other controls to adjust a variety of settings when shooting information is displayed in the monitor. M (Y) button E (N) button Fn button Mode dial Command dial Choose a combination of aperture and shutter speed (mode P;...
  • Page 24 Set exposure compensation (mode P, S, or A; 0 63). E (N) button Command dial Information display Mode P, S, or A Choose a flash mode (0 49). M (Y) button Command dial Information display Adjust flash compensation (mode P, S, A, or M; 0 65). M (Y) button E (N) button P, S, A, or M...
  • Page 25: Camera Menus

    Camera Menus Most shooting, playback, and setup options can be accessed from the camera menus. To view the menus, press the G button. G button Tabs Choose from the following menus: • : Playback (0 125) • : Retouch (0 149) •...
  • Page 26: Using Camera Menus

    Using Camera Menus The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the camera menus. Move cursor up J button: select highlighted item Cancel and return to Select highlighted item or previous menu display sub-menu Move cursor down Follow the steps below to navigate the menus. Display the menus.
  • Page 27 Position the cursor in the selected menu. Press 2 to position the cursor in the selected menu. Highlight a menu item. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a menu item. Display options. Press 2 to display options for the selected menu item.
  • Page 28: First Steps

    First Steps Charge the Battery The camera is powered by an EN-EL14 rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied). To maximize shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-24 battery charger before use. About 1 hour and 30 minutes are required to fully recharge the battery when no charge remains.
  • Page 29: Insert The Battery

    If the problem persists, cease use immediately and take battery and charger to your retailer or a Nikon-authorized service representative.
  • Page 30: Attach A Lens

    Attach a Lens Care should be taken to prevent dust from entering the camera when the lens is removed. The lens generally used in this manual for illustrative purposes is an AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR. Focal length mark Focal length scale Mounting mark CPU contacts (0 168)
  • Page 31 3 EV at a focal length of 55 mm (Nikon measurements; effects vary with the user and shooting conditions). To use vibration reduction, slide the vibration reduction switch to ON.
  • Page 32: Basic Setup

    Basic Setup A language-selection dialog will be displayed the first time the camera is turned on. Choose a language and set the time and date. Photographs can not be taken until you have set the time and date. Turn the camera on. A language-selection dialog will be displayed.
  • Page 33 The Clock Battery The camera clock is powered by an independent, rechargeable power source, which is charged as necessary when the main battery is installed or the camera is powered by an optional EP-5A power connector and EH-5b AC adapter (0 178). Three days of charging will power the clock for about a month.
  • Page 34: Insert A Memory Card

    Insert a Memory Card The camera stores pictures on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (available separately; 0 177). Turn the camera off. Inserting and Removing Memory Cards Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing memory cards. Open the card slot cover. Slide the card slot cover out (q) and open the card slot (w).
  • Page 35: Format The Memory Card

    Format the Memory Card Memory cards must be formatted before first use or after being formatted in other devices. Format the card as described below. Formatting Memory Cards Formatting memory cards permanently deletes any data they may contain. Be sure to copy any photographs and other data you wish to keep to a computer before proceeding (0 111).
  • Page 36: Adjust Viewfinder Focus

    Adjust Viewfinder Focus The camera is equipped with diopter adjustment to accommodate individual differences in vision. Check that the display in the viewfinder is in focus before framing pictures in the viewfinder. Remove the lens cap. Turn the camera on. Focus the viewfinder.
  • Page 37: Basic Photography

    Basic Photography Battery Level and Card Capacity Before shooting, check the battery level and number of exposures remaining. Turn the camera on. Check the battery level. Check the battery level in the information display (if the battery is low, a warning will also be displayed in the viewfinder).
  • Page 38: Point-And-Shoot" Photography (I And J Modes)

    “Point-and-Shoot” Photography (i and j Modes) This section describes how to take photographs in i and j modes, automatic “point-and-shoot” modes in which the majority of settings are controlled by the camera in response to shooting conditions. Turn the camera on. Remove the lens cap and turn the camera on.
  • Page 39 Press the shutter-release button halfway. Press the shutter-release button halfway to focus. The camera will select the focus points automatically. If the subject is poorly lit, the flash may pop up and the AF-assist illuminator may light. Check the indicators in the viewfinder. When the focus operation is complete, the selected focus points will be briefly highlighted, a beep will sound (a beep may not sound if the...
  • Page 40 The Shutter-Release Button The camera has a two-stage shutter-release button. The camera focuses when the shutter- release button is pressed halfway. To take the photograph, press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down. Focus: press halfway Shoot: press all the way down The Standby Timer The viewfinder and information display will turn off if no operations are performed for about 8 seconds, reducing the drain on the battery.
  • Page 41: Creative Photography (Scene Modes)

    Creative Photography (Scene Modes) The camera offers a choice of “scene” modes. Choosing a scene mode automatically optimizes settings to suit the selected scene, making creative photography as simple as selecting a mode, framing a picture, and shooting as described on pages 22–24. The following scenes can be selected with the mode Mode dial dial:...
  • Page 42: Sports

    Sports Fast shutter speeds freeze motion for dynamic sports shots in which the main subject stands out clearly. The built-in flash and AF-assist illuminator turn off. Close up Use for close-up shots of flowers, insects, and other small objects (a macro lens can be used to focus at very close ranges).
  • Page 43: Guide Mode

    Guide Mode The Guide Guide mode gives access to a variety of frequently-used and useful functions. The top level of the guide is displayed when the mode dial is rotated to g. Battery indicator (0 21) Number of exposures remaining (0 21) Shooting mode: A guide mode indicator appears on the shooting mode icon.
  • Page 44: Guide Mode Menus

    Guide Mode Menus To access these menus, highlight Shoot, View/delete, or Set up and press J. Shoot Easy operation Advanced operation Auto Soften backgrounds Adjust aperture. No flash Bring more into focus Distant subjects Freeze motion (people) Close-ups Freeze motion (vehicles) Select a shutter speed.
  • Page 45 View/Delete View single photos View a slide show View multiple photos Delete photos Choose a date Set Up Image quality Output settings Image size HDMI Auto off timers Video mode Print date Playback folder Display and sound settings Playback display options Monitor brightness DPOF print order Info background color...
  • Page 46: Using The Guide

    Using the Guide The following operations can be performed while the guide is displayed: Description Return to top level of guide Press G to turn the monitor on or return to the top level of the guide. Turn monitor G button Highlight a Press 4 or 2 to highlight a menu.
  • Page 47: More On Photography (All Modes)

    More on Photography (All Modes) Release Mode Choose from the following release modes: Mode Description Single frame: Camera takes one photograph each time shutter-release button is pressed. Continuous: While shutter-release button is held down, camera records up to 4 frames per second.
  • Page 48 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 memory card access lamp will light (0 2).
  • Page 49: Self-Timer And Remote Control Modes

    Self-Timer and Remote Control Modes The self-timer and optional ML-L3 remote control (0 177) allow the photographer to be at a distance from the camera when a photo is taken. Mount the camera on a tripod. Mount the camera on a tripod or place the camera on a stable, level surface. Select a release mode.
  • Page 50 Before Using the Remote Control Before using the remote control for the first time, remove the clear plastic battery-insulator sheet. Cover the Viewfinder When taking photos without your eye to the DK-20 rubber eyecup DK-5 eyepiece cap viewfinder, remove the DK-20 rubber eyecup (q) and insert the supplied DK-5 eyepiece cap as shown (w).
  • Page 51: Focus

    Focus This section describes the focus options available when photographs are framed in the viewfinder. Focus can be adjusted automatically or manually (see “Focus Mode, ” below). The user can also select the focus point for automatic or manual focus (0 42) or use focus lock to focus to recompose photographs after focusing (0 40).
  • Page 52 Predictive Focus Tracking In AF-C mode or when continuous-servo autofocus is selected in AF-A mode, the camera will initiate predictive focus tracking if the subject moves toward the camera while the shutter- release button is pressed halfway. This allows the camera to track focus while attempting to predict where the subject will be when the shutter is released.
  • Page 53 The AF-Assist Illuminator If the subject is poorly lit, the AF-assist illuminator will light AF-assist illuminator automatically to assist the autofocus operation when the shutter- release button is pressed halfway. The AF-assist illuminator will not light: • In live view or during movie recording •...
  • Page 54: Af-Area Mode

    AF-Area Mode Choose how the focus point for autofocus is selected. Note that d (Dynamic-area AF) and f (3D-tracking (11 points)) are not available when AF-S is selected for focus mode. Option Description User selects focus point using multi selector (0 40); camera focuses c Single-point AF on subject in selected focus point only.
  • Page 55 Choose an AF-area mode. Highlight one of the following options and press J. To return to shooting mode, press the shutter- release button halfway. AF-Area Mode The AF-area mode used when photographs are framed in the viewfinder can also be selected using the AF-area mode > Viewfinder option in the shooting menu (0 127).
  • Page 56: Focus Point Selection

    Focus Point Selection In manual focus mode or when autofocus is combined with AF-area modes other than e (Auto-area AF), you can choose from 11 focus points, making it possible to compose photographs with the main subject almost anywhere in the frame. Choose an AF-area mode other than e (Auto-area AF;...
  • Page 57 Lock focus. AF-A and AF-C focus modes: With the shutter-release Shutter-release button button pressed halfway (q), press the A (L) button (w) to lock both focus and exposure (an AE-L icon will be displayed in the viewfinder; 0 61). Focus will remain locked while the A (L) button is pressed, even if you later remove your finger from the shutter-release button.
  • Page 58: Manual Focus

    Manual Focus Manual focus can be used when you are not using an AF-S or AF-I lens or when autofocus does not produce the desired results (0 36). Set the lens focus-mode switch. M/A-M mode switch mode switch If the lens is equipped with an A-M or M/A-M mode switch, slide the switch to M.
  • Page 59 Selecting Manual Focus with the Camera If the lens supports M/A (autofocus with manual override), manual focus can also be selected by setting the camera focus mode to MF (manual focus; 0 35). Focus can then be adjusted manually, regardless of the mode selected with the lens. Focal Plane Position To determine the distance between your subject and the camera, measure from the focal plane mark on the camera body.
  • Page 60: Image Quality And Size

    Image Quality and Size Together, image quality and size determine how much space each photograph occupies on the memory card. Larger, higher quality images can be printed at larger sizes but also require more memory, meaning that fewer such images can be stored on the memory card (0 188).
  • Page 61 NEF (RAW) Images Note that the option selected for image size does not affect the size of NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW)+JPEG images. Print date (0 144) is not available at image quality settings of NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW)+JPEG. NEF (RAW) images can be viewed on the camera or using software such as Capture NX 2 (available separately;...
  • Page 62: Image Size

    Image Size Image size is measured in pixels. Choose from the following options: Image size Size (pixels) Print size (cm/in.) # Large 6,016 × 4,000 50.9 × 33.9/20.1 × 13.3 $ Medium 4,512 × 3,000 38.2 × 25.4/15 × 10 % Small 3,008 ×...
  • Page 63: Using The Built-In Flash

    Using the Built-in Flash The camera supports a variety of flash modes for photographing poorly lit or backlit subjects. Using the Built-in Flash: i, k, p, n, and o Modes Choose a flash mode (0 48). Take pictures. The flash will pop up as required when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, and fire when a photograph is taken.
  • Page 64: Flash Mode

    Flash Mode The flash modes available vary with shooting mode: i, k, p, n Auto Auto slow sync+red-eye Auto+red-eye reduction Auto slow sync Flash off Flash off P, A S, M Fill flash Fill flash Red-eye reduction Red-eye reduction Slow sync+red-eye Rear-curtain sync Slow sync Rear-curtain+slow sync...
  • Page 65 Flash Modes The flash modes listed on the previous page may combine one or more of the following settings, as shown by the flash mode icon: • AUTO (auto flash): When lighting is poor or subject is back lit, flash pops up automatically when shutter-release button is pressed halfway and fires as required.
  • Page 66 Shutter Speeds Available with the Built-in Flash Shutter speed is restricted to the following ranges when the built-in flash is used: Mode Shutter speed Mode Shutter speed i, p, n, P, A – –30 s – –30 s, Bulb –1 s Shutter speeds as slow as 30 s are available in slow sync, rear curtain + slow sync, and slow sync + red-eye reduction modes.
  • Page 67: Iso Sensitivity

    ISO Sensitivity “ISO sensitivity” is the digital equivalent of film speed. The higher the ISO sensitivity, the less light needed to make an exposure, allowing higher shutter speeds or smaller apertures, but the more likely the image is to be affected by noise (randomly-spaced bright pixels, fog, or lines;...
  • Page 68 AUTO If the mode dial is rotated to P, S, A, or M after Auto is selected for ISO sensitivity in another mode, the ISO sensitivity last selected in P, S, A, or M mode will be restored. Note that if the ISO sensitivity selected by the user is higher than the value selected for the ISO sensitivity settings >...
  • Page 69: P, S, A, And M Modes

    P, S, A, and M Modes Shutter Speed and Aperture P, S, A, and M modes offer different degrees of control over shutter speed and aperture: Mode Description Camera sets shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure. Programmed auto Recommended for snapshots and in other situations in which (0 54) there is little time to adjust camera settings.
  • Page 70: Mode P (Programmed Auto)

    Mode P (Programmed Auto) In this mode, the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure in most situations. This mode is recommended for snapshots and other situations in which you want to leave the camera in charge of shutter speed and aperture.
  • Page 71: Mode S (Shutter-Priority Auto)

    Mode S (Shutter-Priority Auto) In shutter-priority auto, you choose the shutter speed while the camera automatically selects the aperture that will produce the optimal exposure. Use slow shutter speeds to suggest motion by blurring moving subjects, fast shutter speeds to “freeze”...
  • Page 72: Mode A (Aperture-Priority Auto)

    Mode A (Aperture-Priority Auto) In aperture-priority auto, you choose the aperture while the camera automatically selects the shutter speed that will produce the optimal exposure. Large apertures (low f-numbers) reduce depth of field, blurring objects behind and in front of the main subject.
  • Page 73: Mode M (Manual)

    Mode M (Manual) In manual exposure mode, you control both shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in manual exposure mode: Rotate the mode dial to M. Mode dial Choose aperture and shutter speed. Checking the exposure indicator (see below), adjust shutter speed and aperture.
  • Page 74 Long Time-Exposures (M Mode Only) Select the following shutter speeds for long time- exposures of moving lights, the stars, night scenery, or fireworks. • Bulb (A): The shutter remains open while the shutter-release button is held down. To Length of exposure: 35 s prevent blur, use a tripod or an optional Aperture: f/25 MC-DC2 remote cord (0 177).
  • Page 75 Open the shutter. Bulb: After focusing, press the shutter-release button on the camera or optional remote cord all the way down. Keep the shutter-release button pressed until the exposure is complete. Time: Press the ML-L3 shutter-release button all the way down. Close the shutter.
  • Page 76: Exposure

    Exposure Metering Choose how the camera sets exposure in P, S, A, and M modes (in other modes, the camera selects the metering method automatically). Method Description Produces natural results in most situations. Camera uses 420-pixel RGB sensor to meter a wide area of the frame and set exposure according to tone Matrix distribution, color, composition, and, with type G or D lenses (0 168), distance metering...
  • Page 77: Autoexposure Lock

    Autoexposure Lock Use autoexposure lock to recompose photographs after using M (Center-weighted metering) and N (Spot metering) to meter exposure; note that autoexposure lock is not available in i or j mode. Meter exposure. Position the subject in the center of the frame (center-weighted metering) or the selected focus point (spot metering) and press the shutter- release button halfway to set focus and meter...
  • Page 78 The Shooting Menu Metering can also be adjusted using the Metering option in the shooting menu (0 127). Adjusting Shutter Speed and Aperture While exposure lock is in effect, the following settings can be adjusted without altering the metered value for exposure: Mode Setting Shutter speed and aperture (flexible program;...
  • Page 79: Exposure Compensation

    Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker. It is most effective when used with M (Center-weighted metering) or N (Spot metering) (0 60). Choose from values between –5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure) in increments of EV.
  • Page 80 The E (N) Button Exposure compensation can also be set by pressing the E (N) button and rotating the command dial. The selected value is shown in the viewfinder and information display. E (N) button Command dial –0.3 EV +2 EV Mode M In mode M, exposure compensation affects only the exposure indicator;...
  • Page 81: Flash Compensation

    Flash Compensation Flash compensation is used to alter flash output from the level suggested by the camera, changing the brightness of the main subject relative to the background. Choose from values between –3 EV (darker) and +1 EV (brighter) in increments of EV;...
  • Page 82 +1 EV Optional Flash Units Flash compensation is also available with optional flash units that support the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS; see page 173). The SB-910, SB-900, SB-800, SB-700, and SB-600 also allow flash compensation to be set using the controls on the flash unit. The flash compensation selected with the optional flash unit is added to the flash compensation selected with the camera.
  • Page 83: Preserving Detail In Highlights And Shadows

    Preserving Detail in Highlights and Shadows Active D-Lighting When On is selected, the camera automatically adjusts Active D-Lighting during shooting to preserve details in highlights and shadows, creating photographs with natural contrast. Use for high contrast scenes, for example when photographing brightly lit outdoor scenery through a door or window or taking pictures of shaded subjects on a sunny day.
  • Page 84 Active D-Lighting Noise (randomly-spaced bright pixels, fog, or lines) may appear in photographs taken with Active D-Lighting. Uneven shading may be visible with some subjects. Active D-Lighting can not be used at an ISO sensitivity of Hi 1. “Active D-Lighting” Versus “D-Lighting” The Active D-Lighting option in the shooting menu adjusts exposure before shooting to optimize the dynamic range, while the D-Lighting option in the retouch menu (0 151) optimizes dynamic range in images after shooting.
  • Page 85: White Balance

    White Balance White balance ensures that colors are unaffected by the color of the light source. Auto white balance is recommended for most light sources; in P, S, A, and M modes, other values can be selected if necessary according to the type of source: Option Description Automatic white balance adjustment.
  • Page 86 The Shooting Menu White balance can be selected using the White balance option in the shooting menu (0 127), which also can be used to fine-tune white balance (0 71) or measure a value for preset white balance (0 72). The I Fluorescent option in the White balance menu can be used to select the light source from the bulb types shown at right.
  • Page 87: Fine-Tuning White Balance

    Fine-Tuning White Balance White balance can be “fine-tuned” to compensate for variations in the color of the light source or to introduce a deliberate color cast into an image. White balance is fine-tuned using the White balance option in the shooting menu. Display white balance options.
  • Page 88: Preset Manual

    Preset Manual Preset manual is used to record and recall custom white balance settings for shooting under mixed lighting or to compensate for light sources with a strong color cast. Two methods are available for setting preset white balance: Method Description Neutral gray or white object is placed under lighting that will be used in final photo Measure...
  • Page 89 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. No photograph will be recorded; white balance can be measured accurately even when the camera is not in focus. Check the results.
  • Page 90 Measuring Preset White Balance If no operations are performed while the displays are flashing, direct measurement mode will end in the time selected for the Auto off timers option in the setup menu (0 140). The default setting is eight seconds. Preset White Balance The camera can store only one value for preset white balance at a time;...
  • Page 91 Copying White Balance from a Photograph Follow the steps below to copy a value for white balance from a photograph on the memory card. Select Preset manual. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight White balance in the shooting menu and press 2 to display white balance options.
  • Page 92: Picture Controls

    Picture Controls Nikon’s unique Picture Control system makes it possible to share image processing settings, including sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue, among compatible devices and software. Selecting a Picture Control The camera offers six Picture Controls. In P, S, A, and M modes, you can choose a Picture Control according to the subject or type of scene (in other modes, the camera selects a Picture Control automatically).
  • Page 93: Modifying Picture Controls

    Modifying Picture Controls Picture Controls can be modified to suit the scene or the user’s creative intent. Choose a balanced combination of settings using Quick adjust, or make manual adjustments to individual settings. Display the Picture Control menu. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight Set Picture Control in the shooting menu and press 2.
  • Page 94 Picture Control Settings Option Description Choose from options between –2 and +2 to reduce or exaggerate the effect of the selected Picture Control (note that this resets all manual adjustments). Quick adjust For example, choosing positive values for Vivid makes pictures more vivid. Not available with Neutral or Monochrome Picture Controls.
  • Page 95 The Picture Control Grid Pressing the X button in Step 3 displays a Picture Control grid showing the contrast and saturation for the selected Picture Control in relation to the other Picture Controls (only contrast is displayed when Monochrome is selected). Release the X button to return to the Picture Control menu.
  • Page 96: Live View

    Live View Framing Photographs in the Monitor Follow the steps below to take photographs in live view. Press the a button. The mirror will be raised and the view through the lens will be displayed in the camera monitor. The subject will no longer be visible in the viewfinder.
  • Page 97: Focusing In Live View

    Focusing in Live View Follow the steps below to choose focus and AF-area modes and position the focus point. Choosing a Focus Mode The following focus modes are available in live view: Option Description For stationary subjects. Focus locks when shutter-release button is AF-S Single-servo AF pressed halfway.
  • Page 98 Choosing an AF-Area Mode In modes other than i and j, the following AF-area modes can be selected in live view: Option Description The camera automatically detects and focuses on portrait Face-priority AF subjects. Use for portraits. Use for hand-held shots of landscapes and other non-portrait Wide-area AF subjects.
  • Page 99 Choosing the Focus Point The method for selecting the focus point for autofocus varies with the option selected for AF-area mode (0 82). 8 (face-priority AF): A double yellow border will be displayed when the camera detects a portrait subject (if multiple faces, up to a maximum of 35, are detected, the camera will focus on the closest subject;...
  • Page 100 The Live View Display Item Description 22, 25, q Shooting mode The mode currently selected with the mode dial. w “No movie” icon Indicates that movies can not be recorded. The amount of time remaining before live view ends e Time remaining 86, 91 automatically.
  • Page 101 Live View/Movie Recording Display Options Press the R button to cycle through display options as shown below. Circled areas indicate edges of movie frame crop Show photo Show movie Hide indicators Framing grid indicators indicators (0 88) * A crop showing the area recorded is displayed during movie recording when frame sizes other than 640 ×...
  • Page 102 HDMI When the camera is attached to an HDMI video device, the camera monitor will remain on and the video device will display the view through the lens as shown at right. If the device supports HDMI-CEC, select Off for the HDMI > Device control option in the setup menu (0 124) before shooting in live view.
  • Page 103 Using Autofocus in Live View Autofocus is slower in live view and the monitor may brighten or darken while the camera focuses. The camera may be unable to focus in the following situations: • The subject contains lines parallel to the long edge of the frame •...
  • Page 104: Recording And Viewing Movies

    R ecording and Viewing Movies Recording Movies Movies can be recorded in live view mode. Press the a button. The mirror is raised and the view through the lens is displayed in the monitor instead of the viewfinder. The 0 Icon A 0 icon (0 84) indicates that movies can not be recorded.
  • Page 105 End recording. Press the movie-record button again to end recording. Recording will end automatically when the maximum length is reached, the memory card is full, another mode is selected, or the lens is removed. Taking Photographs During Movie Recording To end movie recording, take a photograph, and exit to live view, press the shutter-release button all the way down and hold it in this position until the shutter is released.
  • Page 106: Movie Settings

    Movie Settings Use the Movie settings option in the shooting menu to adjust the following settings. • Frame size/frame rate, Movie quality: Choose from the following options. The frame rate depends on the option currently selected for Video mode in the setup menu (0 136): Frame size/frame rate Movie quality...
  • Page 107 • Manual movie settings: Choose On to allow manual adjustments to shutter speed and ISO sensitivity when the camera is in mode M. Shutter speed can be set to values as fast as s; the slowest speed available varies with the 4,000 frame rate: s for frame rates of 24p, 25p, and 30p,...
  • Page 108: Viewing Movies

    Viewing Movies Movies are indicated by a 1 icon in full-frame playback (0 97). Press J to start playback. 1 icon Length Current position/total length Volume Movie progress bar Guide The following operations can be performed: Description Pause Pause playback. Resume playback when movie is paused or during rewind/ Play advance.
  • Page 109: Editing Movies

    Editing Movies Trim footage to create edited copies of movies or save selected frames as JPEG stills. Option Description Create a copy from which the opening or closing footage has f Choose start/end point been removed. g Save selected frame Save a selected frame as a JPEG still.
  • Page 110 Select Choose start/end point. Highlight Choose start/end point and press The dialog shown at right will be displayed; choose whether the current frame will be the starting or end point of the copy and press J. Delete frames. If the desired frame is not currently displayed, press 4 or 2 to advance or rewind (to skip to 10 s ahead or back, rotate the command dial).
  • Page 111 Trimming Movies Movies must be at least two seconds long. If a copy can not be created at the current playback position, the current position will be displayed in red in Step 5 and no copy will be created. The copy will not be saved if there is insufficient space available on the memory card.
  • Page 112: Saving Selected Frames

    Saving Selected Frames To save a copy of a selected frame as a JPEG still: View the movie and choose a frame. Play the movie back as described on page 92; your approximate position in the movie can be ascertained from the movie progress bar.
  • Page 113: Playback And Deletion

    Playback and Deletion Full-Frame Playback To play photographs back, press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor. K button Description Press 2 to view photographs in order recorded, 4 to view View additional photographs photographs in reverse order.
  • Page 114: Photo Information

    Playback display options > Additional photo info (0 126). GPS data are only displayed if a GP-1 was used when the photo was taken. 1/ 12 NIKON D3200 1/ 12 LATITUDE : 35 º...
  • Page 115 RGB Histogram Retouch indicator..........150 Protect status ............105 White balance............69 White balance fine-tuning........71 Preset manual ............72 Camera name Histogram (RGB channel). In all histograms, horizontal axis gives pixel brightness, vertical N I KON D3200 1/ 12 axis number of pixels. Histogram (red channel) Histogram (green channel) Histogram (blue channel)
  • Page 116 Shooting Data Protect status ............105 Retouch indicator........... 150 Metering ..............60 MTR , SPD , AP . , 1 250 , F11 , 100 EXP. MODE, I SO Shutter speed ............. 55, 57 – 1. 3 FOCAL LENGTH 35mm Aperture...............
  • Page 117 Overview Data NIKON D3200 1/ 12 12 13 1 250 35mm – 1. 3 + 1. 0 1 250 35mm – 1. 3 + 1. 0 100D3200 DSC _ 0001. JPG NOR ORMAL 15/04/2012 10 6016x4000 Aperture ..............56, 57 Frame number/total number of images ISO sensitivity ............51...
  • Page 118: Thumbnail Playback

    Thumbnail Playback To display images in “contact sheets” of four, nine, or 72 images, press the W (Q) button. W (Q) W (Q) Full-frame Thumbnail playback Calendar playback playback Description Press W (Q) button to increase the number of images Display more W (Q) images...
  • Page 119: Calendar Playback

    Calendar Playback To view images taken on a selected date, press the W (Q) button when 72 images are displayed. Thumbnail list W (Q) W (Q) Date list Full-frame Thumbnail playback Calendar playback playback The operations can be performed depend on whether the cursor is in the date list or the thumbnail list: Description Press W (Q) button in date list to place cursor in...
  • Page 120: Taking A Closer Look: Playback Zoom

    Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom Press the X button to zoom in on the image displayed in full-frame playback or on the image currently highlighted in thumbnail or calendar playback. The following operations can be performed while zoom is in effect: Description Press X to zoom in to maximum of approximately 38×...
  • Page 121: Protecting Photographs From Deletion

    Protecting Photographs from Deletion In full-frame, zoom, thumbnail, and calendar playback, the A (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 19).
  • Page 122: Deleting Photographs

    Deleting Photographs To delete the photograph displayed in full-frame playback or the photograph highlighted in the thumbnail list, press the O button. To delete multiple selected photographs, all photographs taken on a selected date, or all photographs in the current playback folder, use the Delete option in the playback menu. Once deleted, photographs can not be recovered.
  • Page 123: The Playback Menu

    The Playback Menu The Delete option in the playback menu contains the following options. Note that depending on the number of images, some time may be required for deletion. Option Description Q Selected Delete selected pictures. n Select date Delete all pictures taken on a selected date. R All Delete all pictures in the folder currently selected for playback (0 125).
  • Page 124 Select Date: Deleting Photographs Taken on a Selected Date Choose Select Date. In the delete menu, highlight Select date and press 2. Highlight a date. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a date. To view the pictures taken on the highlighted date, press W (Q).
  • Page 125: Slide Shows

    Slide Shows The Slide show option in the playback menu is used to display a slide show of the pictures in the current playback folder ( 125). Select Slide show. To display the slide show menu, press the G button and select Slide show in the playback menu.
  • Page 126 Start the side show. Highlight Start in the slide show menu and press J. The following operations can be performed while the slide show is in progress: Description Press 4 to return to previous frame, 2 to skip Skip back/skip ahead to next frame.
  • Page 127: Connections

    Do not turn the camera off or disconnect the USB cable while transfer is in progress. Windows To visit the Nikon website after installing ViewNX 2, select All Programs > Link to Nikon from the Windows start menu (Internet connection required).
  • Page 128: Connecting The Camera

    If a message is displayed prompting you to choose a program, select Nikon Transfer 2. Windows 7 If the following dialog is displayed, select Nikon Transfer 2 as described below. 1 Under Import pictures and videos, click Change program. A program selection dialog will be displayed;...
  • Page 129 Nikon Transfer 2, start ViewNX 2 or Nikon Transfer 2 and select ViewNX 2 Help from the Help menu). Start Transfer Turn the camera off and disconnect the USB cable when transfer ends. Nikon Transfer 2 will close automatically when transfer is complete.
  • Page 130: Printing Photographs

    Printing Photographs Selected JPEG images can be printed on a PictBridge printer (0 204) connected directly to the camera. Connecting the Printer Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E17 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.
  • Page 131: Printing Pictures One At A Time

    Selecting Photographs for Printing NEF (RAW) photographs (0 44) can not be selected for printing. JPEG copies of NEF (RAW) images can be created using the NEF (RAW) processing option in the retouch menu (0 157). Printing Via Direct USB Connection Be sure the EN-EL14 battery is fully charged or use an optional EH-5b AC adapter and EP-5A power connector.
  • Page 132: Start Printing

    Adjust printing options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. Option Description Highlight a page size (only sizes supported by the current printer are listed) and press J to select and exit to the previous menu (to print at the default Page size page size for the current printer, select Printer default).
  • Page 133: Printing Multiple Pictures

    Printing Multiple Pictures Display the PictBridge menu. Press the G button in the PictBridge playback display (see Step 3 on page 114). G button Choose an option. Highlight one of the following options and press 2. • Print select: Select pictures for printing. •...
  • Page 134 Select pictures or choose a date. If you chose Print select or Print (DPOF) in Step 2, use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture full screen, press and hold the X button. To select the current picture for printing, press the W (Q) button and press 1.
  • Page 135 Display printing options. Press J to display PictBridge printing options. Adjust printing options. Choose page size, border, and time stamp options as described on page 116 (a warning will be displayed if the selected page size is too small for an index print).
  • Page 136: Creating A Dpof Print Order: Print Set

    Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set The DPOF print order option in the playback menu is used to create digital “print orders” for PictBridge-compatible printers and devices that support DPOF. Choose Select/set for the DPOF print order item in the playback menu. Press the G button and select DPOF print order in the playback menu.
  • Page 137 Select imprint options. Highlight the following options and press 2 to toggle the highlighted option on or off (to complete the print order without including this information, proceed to Step 5). • Print shooting data: Print shutter speed and aperture on all pictures in print order. •...
  • Page 138: Viewing Photographs On Tv

    Viewing Photographs on TV The supplied EG-CP14 audio video (A/V) cable can be used to connect the camera to a television or video recorder for playback or recording. A type C mini-pin High- Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable (available separately from third-party suppliers) can be used to connect the camera to high-definition video devices.
  • Page 139: High-Definition Devices

    High-Definition Devices The camera can be connected to HDMI devices using a type C mini-pin HDMI cable (available separately from third-party suppliers). Turn the camera off. Always turn the camera off before connecting or disconnecting an HDMI cable. Connect the HDMI cable as shown. Connect to high-definition device (choose cable with connector for HDMI device)
  • Page 140 HDMI Options The HDMI option in the setup menu controls output resolution and can be used to enable the camera for remote control from devices that support HDMI-CEC (High- Definition Multimedia Interface–Consumer Electronics Control, a standard that allows HDMI devices to be used to control peripherals to which they are connected). Output Resolution Choose the format for images output to the HDMI device.
  • Page 141: Menu Guide

    Menu Guide D The Playback Menu: Managing Images To display the playback menu, press G and select the D (playback menu) tab. G button The playback menu contains the following options: Option Default Option Default Delete — Rotate tall Playback folder Current Slide show —...
  • Page 142: Playback Display Options

    Playback Display Options G button D playback menu Choose the information available in the playback photo information display (0 98) and the transition between frames during playback. • Additional photo info: Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option, then press 2 to select the option for the photo information display.
  • Page 143: C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options

    C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options To display the shooting menu, press G and select the C (shooting menu) tab. G button The shooting menu contains the following options: Option Default Option Default Reset shooting menu — AF-area mode Set Picture Control Standard Single-point AF Image quality...
  • Page 144: Reset Shooting Menu

    Reset Shooting Menu G button C shooting menu Select Yes to reset shooting menu settings. Reset Shooting Options Selecting Yes for Reset shooting menu also restores Picture Control settings to their default values (0 77) and resets the following: Option Default Option Default...
  • Page 145: Iso Sensitivity Settings

    ISO Sensitivity Settings G button C shooting menu Adjust ISO sensitivity (0 51). Auto ISO Sensitivity control If Off is chosen for Auto ISO sensitivity control in P, S, A, and M modes, ISO sensitivity will remain fixed at the value selected by the user (0 51). When On is chosen, 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 146: Auto Distortion Control

    DCF, select the appropriate color space manually. For more information, see the documentation provided with the application or device. Nikon Software ViewNX 2 (supplied) and Capture NX 2 (available separately) automatically select the correct color space when opening photographs created with this camera.
  • Page 147: Noise Reduction

    Noise Reduction G button C shooting menu Select On to reduce noise (bright spots, randomly-spaced bright pixels, lines, or fog). Noise reduction takes effect at all ISO sensitivities, but is most noticeable at higher values. The time required for processing at shutter speeds slower than about 1 s or when the camera’s internal temperature is elevated and ISO sensitivity is high roughly doubles;...
  • Page 148: Flash Cntrl For Built-In Flash

    Flash Cntrl for Built-in Flash G button C shooting menu Choose the flash mode for the built-in flash in P, S, A, and M modes. Option Description 1 TTL Flash output is adjusted automatically in response to shooting conditions. Choose a flash level between Full and 1/32 ( of full power).
  • Page 149: B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup

    B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup To display the setup menu, press G and select the B (setup menu) tab. G button The setup menu contains the following options: Option Default Option Default Reset setup options — Self-timer Format memory card —...
  • Page 150: Reset Setup Options

    Reset Setup Options G button B setup menu Select Yes to reset setup menu all settings except Video mode, Time zone and date, Language, and Storage folder to the defaults listed above. Monitor Brightness G button B setup menu Press 1 or 3 to choose monitor brightness. Choose higher values for increased brightness, lower values for reduced brightness.
  • Page 151 The “Classic” display is shown below. 15 16 22 23 Shooting mode Metering........60 “Beep” indicator ....141 i auto/ Auto ISO sensitivity Eye-Fi connection j auto (flash off) ....22 indicator ......129 indicator......148 Scene modes .......25 Print date indicator .....144 Battery indicator ....21 P, S, A, and M modes....53 Manual flash indicator ..132...
  • Page 152: Auto Info Display

    Auto Info Display G button B setup menu If On is selected, the information display will appear after the shutter-release button is pressed halfway; if image review (0 126) is off, it will also be displayed immediately after shooting. Choose On if you find yourself frequently referring to the information display during shooting.
  • Page 153: Time Zone And Date

    Time Zone and Date G button B setup menu Change time zones, set the camera clock, choose the date display order, and turn daylight saving time on or off. Option Description Choose a time zone. The camera clock is automatically set to the time in the new time zone. Time zone Set the camera clock (0 16).
  • Page 154: Image Comment

    Image Comment G button B setup menu Add a comment to new photographs as they are taken. Comments can be viewed as metadata in ViewNX 2 (supplied) or Capture NX 2 (available separately; 0 176). The comment is also visible on the shooting data page in the photo information display (0 100).
  • Page 155: Image Dust Off Ref Photo

    Image Dust Off Ref Photo G button B setup menu 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 156: Auto Off Timers

    If the reference object is too bright or too dark, the camera may be unable to acquire Image Dust Off reference data and the message shown at right will be displayed. Choose another reference object and repeat the process from step 1. Image Dust Off Reference Data The same reference data can be used for photographs taken with different lenses or at different apertures.
  • Page 157: Self-Timer

    Self-Timer G button B setup menu Choose the length of the shutter release delay and the number of shots taken (0 33). • Self-timer delay: Choose the length of the shutter-release delay. • Number of shots: Press 1 and 3 to choose the number of shots taken each time the shutter-release button is pressed (from 1 to 9;...
  • Page 158: Rangefinder

    Rangefinder G button B setup menu Choose On to use the exposure indicator to determine whether the camera is correctly focused in manual focus mode (0 42; note that this function is not available in shooting mode M, when the exposure indicator instead shows whether the subject is correctly exposed).
  • Page 159: Buttons

    File Number Sequence If the current folder is numbered 999 and contains either 999 photographs or a photograph numbered 9999, the shutter-release button will be disabled and no further photographs can be taken. Choose Reset for File number sequence and then either format the current memory card or insert a new memory card.
  • Page 160: Slot Empty Release Lock

    Shutter-release button AE-L At the default setting of Off, exposure only locks when the A (L) button is pressed. If On is selected, exposure will also lock when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Slot Empty Release Lock G button B setup menu If Release locked is selected, the shutter-release button is only enabled when a memory card is inserted in the camera.
  • Page 161 Date Counter Pictures taken while this option is in effect are imprinted with the number of days remaining until a future date or the number of days elapsed since a past date. Use it to track the growth of a child or count down the days until a birthday or wedding.
  • Page 162: Storage Folder

    (e.g., 101D3200). The camera treats folders with the same name but different folder numbers as the same folder. For example, if the folder NIKON is selected for Storage folder, photographs in all folders named NIKON (100NIKON, 101NIKON, 102NIKON, etc.) will be visible when Current is selected for Playback folder (0 125).
  • Page 163: Gps

    G button B setup menu This item is used to adjust settings for optional GP-1 GPS units. The GP-1 can be connected to the camera’s accessory terminal (0 177) using the cable supplied with the GP-1, allowing information on the camera’s current position to be recorded when photographs are taken (turn the camera off before connecting the GP-1;...
  • Page 164: Eye-Fi Upload

    Eye-Fi Upload G button B setup menu This option is displayed only when an Eye-Fi memory card (available separately from third-party suppliers) is inserted in the camera. Choose Enable to upload photographs to a preselected destination. Note that pictures will not be uploaded if signal strength is insufficient.
  • Page 165: N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies

    N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies To display the retouch menu, press G and select the N (retouch menu) tab. G button The retouch menu is used to create trimmed or retouched copies of the photographs on the memory card, and is only available when a memory card containing photographs is inserted in the camera.
  • Page 166: Creating Retouched Copies

    Creating Retouched Copies To create a retouched copy: Display retouch options. Highlight the desired item in the retouch menu and press 2. Select a picture. Highlight a picture and press J. Retouch The camera may not be able to display or retouch images created with other devices.
  • Page 167: 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 168: Trim

    Trim G button N retouch menu Create a cropped copy of the selected photograph. The selected photograph is displayed with the selected crop shown in yellow; create a cropped copy as described in the following table. Description Press the X button to increase the size of the crop. Increase size of crop W (Q) Press the W (Q) button to reduce the size of the crop.
  • Page 169: Filter Effects

    Filter Effects G button N retouch menu Choose from the following filter effects. After adjusting filter effects as described below, press J to copy the photograph. Option Description Creates the effect of a skylight filter, making the Skylight picture less blue. The effect can be previewed in the monitor as shown at right.
  • Page 170: Color Balance

    Color Balance G button N retouch menu Use the multi selector to create a copy with modified color balance as shown below. The effect is displayed in the monitor together with red, green, and blue histograms (0 99) giving the distribution of tones in the copy.
  • Page 171: Image Overlay

    Image Overlay G button N retouch menu Image overlay combines two existing NEF (RAW) photographs to create a single picture that is saved separately from the originals; the results, which make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor, are noticeably better than overlays created in an imaging application.
  • Page 172 Select the second image. The selected image will appear as Image 1. Highlight Image 2 and press J, then select the second photo as described in Step 2. Adjust gain. Highlight Image 1 or Image 2 and optimize exposure for the overlay by pressing 1 or 3 to select gain from values between 0.1 and 2.0.
  • Page 173: Nef (Raw) Processing

    NEF (RAW) Processing G button N retouch menu Create JPEG copies of NEF (RAW) photographs. Select NEF (RAW) processing. Highlight NEF (RAW) processing in the retouch menu and press 2 to display a picture selection dialog listing only NEF (RAW) images created with this camera.
  • Page 174: Resize

    Resize G button N retouch menu Create small copies of selected photographs. Select Resize. To resize selected images, press G to display the menus and select Resize in the retouch menu. Choose a size. Highlight Choose size and press 2. The options shown at right will be displayed;...
  • Page 175: Quick Retouch

    Viewing Resized Copies Playback zoom may not be available when resized copies are displayed. Image Quality Copies created from NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW) + JPEG photos have an image quality (0 44) of JPEG fine; copies created from JPEG photos have the same image quality as the original. Quick Retouch G button N retouch menu...
  • Page 176: Fisheye

    Fisheye G button N retouch menu Create copies that appear to have been taken with a fisheye lens. Press 2 to increase the effect (this also increases the amount that will be cropped out at the edges of the image), 4 to reduce it.
  • Page 177: Perspective Control

    Perspective Control G button N retouch menu Create copies that reduce the effects of perspective taken from the base of a tall object. Use the multi selector to adjust perspective (note that greater amounts of perspective control result in more of the edges being cropped out). The results can be previewed in the edit display.
  • Page 178: Miniature Effect

    Miniature Effect G button N retouch menu Create a copy that appears to be a photo of a diorama. Works best with photos taken from a high vantage point. The area that will be in focus in the copy is indicated by a yellow frame.
  • Page 179: Selective Color

    Selective Color G button N retouch menu Create a copy in which only selected hues appear in color. Select Selective color. Highlight Selective color in the retouch menu and press 2 to display a picture selection dialog. Select a photograph. Highlight a photograph (to view the highlighted photograph full frame, press and hold the X button).
  • Page 180 Choose the color range. Press 1 or 3 to increase or decrease the range of similar hues that will be included in the final photograph or movie. Choose from values between 1 and 7; note that higher values may include hues from other colors. The effect can be previewed in the edit display.
  • Page 181: Side-By-Side Comparison

    Side-by-side Comparison Compare retouched copies to the original photographs. This option is only available if the J button is pressed to display the retouch menu when a copy or original is played back full frame. Select a picture. Select a retouched copy (shown by a N icon) or a photograph that has been retouched in full- frame playback and press J.
  • Page 182: Recent Settings

    m Recent Settings To display the recent settings menu, press G and select the m (recent settings) tab. G button The recent settings menu lists the twenty most recently used settings. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select.
  • Page 183: Technical Notes

    Technical Notes Read this chapter for information on compatible accessories, cleaning and storing the camera, and what to do if an error message is displayed or you encounter problems using the camera. Compatible Lenses Compatible CPU Lenses This camera supports autofocus with AF-S and AF-I CPU lenses only. AF-S lenses have names beginning with AF-S, AF-I lenses names beginning with AF-I.
  • Page 184 Identifying CPU and Type G and D Lenses CPU lenses can be identified by the presence of CPU contacts, type G and D lenses by a letter on the lens barrel. Type G lenses are not equipped with a lens aperture ring. CPU contacts Aperture ring CPU lens...
  • Page 185: Compatible Non-Cpu Lenses

    “Incompatible Accessories and Non-CPU Lenses, ” below. Camera setting Focus Mode Metering MF (with electronic Other modes L, M, N Lens/accessory rangefinder) AI-, AI-modified NIKKOR or Nikon Series E lenses — — — 2, 3 Medical NIKKOR 120mm f/4 — — —...
  • Page 186 The Built-in Flash The built-in flash can be used with lenses with focal lengths of 18–300 mm, although in some cases the flash may be unable to entirely light the subject at some ranges or focal lengths due to shadows cast by the lens, while lenses that block the subject’s view of the red- eye reduction lamp may interfere with red-eye reduction.
  • Page 187 Lens Zoom position Minimum distance without vignetting 250 mm 2.5 m/8 ft 2in. AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 200–400mm f/4G IF-ED 350 mm 2.0 m/6 ft 7 in. 200 mm 5.0 m/16 ft 5 in. 250 mm 3.0 m/9 ft 10 in. AF-S NIKKOR 200–400mm f/4G ED VR II 300 mm 2.5 m/8 ft 2 in.
  • Page 188: Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)

    Use Only Nikon Flash Accessories Use only Nikon flash units. Negative voltages or voltages over 250 V applied to the accessory shoe could not only prevent normal operation, but damage the sync circuitry of the camera or flash.
  • Page 189: 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 190 The following features are available with CLS-compatible flash units: Flash unit Advanced Wireless Lighting Master/commander Remote SB-910 SB-910 SB-910 SB-900 SB-900 SB-900 SB-700 Flash mode/feature SB-800 SB-700 SB-600 SB-400 SB-800 SB-700 SU-800 SB-800 SB-600 SB-R200 i-TTL balanced fill-flash for i-TTL digital SLR AA Auto aperture —...
  • Page 191 Notes on Optional Flash Units Refer to the Speedlight manual for detailed instructions. If the flash unit supports CLS, refer to the section on CLS-compatible digital SLR cameras. The D3200 is not included in the “digital SLR” category in the SB-80DX, SB-28DX, and SB-50DX manuals. If an optional flash unit is attached in shooting modes other than j, the flash will fire with every shot, even in modes in which the built-in flash can not be used (l and m).
  • Page 192: Other Accessories

    Capture NX 2: A complete photo editing package offering such features as white balance adjustment and color control points. Note: Use the latest versions of Nikon software. Most Nikon software offers an Software auto update feature when the computer is connected to the Internet. See the websites listed on page xiv for the latest information on supported operating systems.
  • Page 193: Approved Memory Cards

    Body Cap BF-1B/Body Cap BF-1A: The body cap keeps the mirror, viewfinder screen, Body cap and low-pass filter free of dust when a lens is not in place. ML-L3 wireless remote control (0 33): The ML-L3 uses a 3 V CR2025 battery. Remote controls Pressing the battery-chamber latch to the right (q), insert a fingernail into the...
  • Page 194: Attaching A Power Connector And Ac Adapter

    Attaching a Power Connector and AC Adapter Turn the camera off before attaching an optional power connector and AC adapter. Ready the camera. Open the battery-chamber (q) and power connector (w) covers. Insert the EP-5A power connector. Be sure to insert the connector in the orientation shown, using the connector to keep the orange battery latch pressed to one side.
  • Page 195: Caring For The Camera

    Do not use alcohol, thinner, or other volatile chemicals. Servicing the Camera and Accessories The camera is a precision device and requires regular servicing. Nikon recommends that the camera be inspected by the original retailer or Nikon-authorized service representative once every one to two years, and that it be serviced once every three to five years (note that fees apply to these services).
  • Page 196: 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 197 Cleaning is performed by vibrating the low-pass filter. If dust can not be fully removed using the options in the Clean image sensor menu, clean the image sensor manually (0 182) or consult a Nikon-authorized service representative. If image sensor cleaning is performed several times in succession, image sensor cleaning may be temporarily disabled to protect the camera’s internal circuitry.
  • Page 198 (0 180), 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 199 End cleaning or inspection immediately. Foreign Matter on the Low-Pass Filter Nikon takes every possible precaution to prevent foreign matter from coming into contact with the low-pass filter during production and shipping. The D3200, however, is designed to be used with interchangeable lenses, and foreign matter may enter the camera when lenses are removed or exchanged.
  • Page 200: Caring For The Camera And Battery: Cautions

    Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions Caring for the Camera 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.
  • Page 201: Caring For The Battery

    Storage: To prevent mold or mildew, store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area. If you are using an AC adapter, unplug the adapter to prevent fire. If the product will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery to prevent leakage and store the camera in a plastic bag containing a desiccant.
  • Page 202 • The internal temperature of the battery may rise while the battery is in use. Attempting to charge the battery while the internal temperature is elevated will impair battery performance, and the battery may not charge or charge only partially. Wait for the battery to cool before charging.
  • Page 203: Available Settings

    Available Settings The following table lists the settings that can be adjusted in each mode. Defaults can be restored with Reset shooting menu (0 128). — — — — — — — — z Set Picture Control Image quality Image size —...
  • Page 204: Memory Card Capacity

    Memory Card Capacity The following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on a 8 GB SanDisk Extreme Pro SDHC UHS-I card at different image quality and size settings. Note that buffer capacity drops at ISO sensitivities of 1600 or higher. Image quality Image size File size...
  • Page 205: Troubleshooting

    AC adapter (available separately), disconnect and reconnect the adapter and turn the camera on again. If the problem persists after removing the battery from the camera, contact your retailer or Nikon-authorized service representative.
  • Page 206 Focus does not lock when shutter-release button is pressed halfway: Use A (L) button to lock focus when live view is off and AF-C is selected for focus mode or when photographing moving subjects in AF-A mode (0 40). Can not select focus point: •...
  • Page 207: Shooting (P, S, A, M)

    Shooting (P, S, A, M) Shutter-release disabled: • Non-CPU lens is attached: rotate camera mode dial to M (0 169). • Mode dial rotated to S after shutter speed of “Bulb” or “Time” selected in mode M: choose new shutter speed (0 55). Full range of shutter speeds not available: •...
  • Page 208: Miscellaneous

    Can not change print order: • Memory card is full: delete pictures (0 21, 106). • Memory card is locked (0 18). 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 supplied software or Capture NX 2 (0 111, 157).
  • Page 209: Error Messages

    (flashes) card write-protect switch to “write” position. • Use approved card. • Format card. If problem persists, card may be damaged. Contact Nikon-authorized service representative. This memory card cannot be • Error creating new folder. Delete files or insert new memory card.
  • Page 210 — in bounce position or focus distance is very short. Continue shooting; if necessary, increase focus distance to prevent shadows from appearing in photograph. Error occurred updating firmware for optional Flash error flash unit. Contact Nikon-authorized service — (flashes) representative.
  • Page 211 Indicator Monitor Viewfinder Solution Release shutter. If error persists or appears Error. Press shutter release frequently, consult Nikon-authorized service — button again. representative. Start-up error. Contact a (flashes) Nikon-authorized service Consult Nikon-authorized service — representative. representative. Metering error Unable to start live view.
  • Page 212: Specifications

    Nikon D3200 Digital Camera Type Single-lens reflex digital camera Type Nikon F mount (with AF contacts) Lens mount Approx. 1.5 × lens focal length (35 mm format equivalent); Nikon DX Effective angle of view format Effective pixels Effective pixels 24.2 million Image sensor 23.2 ×...
  • Page 213 Lens Compatible lenses Autofocus is available with AF-S and AF-I lenses. Autofocus is not available with other type G and D lenses, AF lenses (IX NIKKOR and lenses for the F3AF are not supported), and AI-P lenses. Non-CPU lenses can be used in mode M, but the camera exposure meter will not function.
  • Page 214 Focus Autofocus Nikon Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus sensor module with TTL phase detection, 11 focus points (including one cross-type sensor), and AF- assist illuminator (range approx. 0.5–3 m/1 ft 8 in.–9 ft 10 in.) Detection range –1 – +19 EV (ISO 100, 20 °C/68 °F) Lens servo •...
  • Page 215 Live view Lens servo • Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); full-time servo AF (AF-F) • Manual focus (MF) Face-priority AF, wide-area AF, normal-area AF, subject-tracking AF AF-area mode Contrast-detect AF anywhere in frame (camera selects focus point Autofocus automatically when face-priority AF or subject-tracking AF is selected) Available in i and j modes Automatic scene selection...
  • Page 216 • Nikon reserves the right to change the specifications of the hardware and software described in this manual at any time and without prior notice. Nikon will not be held liable for damages that may result from any mistakes that this manual may contain.
  • Page 217 Nikon reserves the right to change the specifications of the hardware and software described in this manual at any time and without prior notice. Nikon will not be held liable for damages that may result from any mistakes that this manual may contain.
  • Page 218 The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR is for use exclusively with Nikon DX format digital cameras. In the case of the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–55 mm f/3.5–5.6G VR, changes to zoom can alter maximum aperture by up to 1 EV.
  • Page 219 Supplied Accessories • 52 mm Snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-52 Optional Accessories • 52 mm screw-on filters • LF-1 and LF-4 rear lens caps • Flexible Lens Pouch CL-0815 • Lens Hood HB-45 (attaches as shown at right) A Note on Wide-Angle Lenses Autofocus may not provide the desired results with wide–...
  • Page 220 High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC. All other trade names mentioned in this manual or the other documentation provided with your Nikon product are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
  • Page 221: Battery Life

    • Using a WU-1a wireless mobile adapter • Using VR (vibration reduction) mode with VR lenses To ensure that you get the most from rechargeable Nikon EN-EL14 batteries: • Keep the battery contacts clean. Soiled contacts can reduce battery performance.
  • Page 222: Index

    Index Symbols i (Auto mode)........ 22 A/V cable .........122 Calendar ..........103 j (Auto (flash off) mode) ... 22 AC adapter......176, 178 Calendar playback .......103 k (Portrait) ........25 Access lamp........23 CEC ............124 l (Landscape)......... 25 Accessories ........176 Center-weighted metering..60 p (Child)..........
  • Page 223 ..........132 Flexible program ......54 Neutral (Set Picture Control)..76 i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital Flicker reduction ....89, 136 Nikon Transfer 2....111, 112 SLR ........... 132 Fluorescent (White balance) 69, 70 Noise reduction ......131 Fn button ........8, 143 Non-CPU lens ........
  • Page 224 Preset manual (White balance) 69, Shutter-release button AE-L..144 Side-by-side comparison ..165 Warm filter (Filter effects)..153 Press the shutter-release button Single frame (Release mode) ..31 WB............69 all the way down ....23, 24 Single-point AF (AF-area mode)38 White balance........69 Press the shutter-release button Single-servo AF......
  • Page 228 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. SB2C01(11) 6MB14011-01...

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