Nikon D3000 User Manual
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DIGITAL CAMERA
User's Manual
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Summary of Contents for Nikon D3000

  • Page 1 DIGITAL CAMERA User's Manual...
  • Page 2 Where to Find It Find what you’re looking for from: ➜ The Table of Contents 0 vi–x Find items by function or menu name. ➜ The Q&A Index 0 ii–v Know what you want to do but don’t know the function name? Find it from the “question and answer”...
  • Page 3 0 ii Q&A Index 0 vi Table of Contents Introduction 0 25 Basic Photography and Playback 0 35 Guide Mode 0 41 More on Photography (All Modes) P, S, A, and M Modes 0 67 0 91 More on Playback 0 105 Connections 0 117...
  • Page 4 Q&A Index Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index. ❚❚ Camera Displays Question Key phrase The information display What do these icons mean? The viewfinder Number of exposures How many more shots can I take with this card? remaining How much charge does the battery have left? Battery level...
  • Page 5 ❚❚ Taking Photographs Question Key phrase Is there a quick and easy way to take snapshots? Auto modes 25–29 How do I use the GUIDE position on the mode dial? Guide mode 35–40 How do I quickly adjust settings for different scenes? Scene modes 30–31 How do I take pictures for printing at large sizes?
  • Page 6 ❚❚ Viewing, Retouching, and Printing Photographs Question Key phrase How do I view photographs on the camera? Playback 32, 91 How do I delete unwanted photos? Deleting photos 101–103 Can I zoom in on photos during playback? Playback zoom Can I protect photos from accidental deletion? Protect Can I view photos in an automatic slide show? Slide show...
  • Page 7 ❚❚ Menus and Settings Question Key phrase How do I use the menus? Using the menus 11–13 Help How do I get help for a menu or message? Error messages The information display 6, 7 How do I adjust settings? The command dial 8–10 Menus...
  • Page 8: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Q&A Index ............................ ii For Your Safety .......................... xi Notices............................xiii Introduction Overview............................1 Getting to Know the Camera....................2 The Camera Body ........................2 The Mode Dial..........................4 The Viewfinder..........................5 The Information Display......................6 The Command Dial ........................8 The Power Switch........................10 Camera Menus..........................11 Using Camera Menus ......................
  • Page 9 Guide Mode The Guide Menu........................35 Shoot: Taking Pictures in Guide Mode....................37 View/Delete: Viewing and Deleting Pictures in Guide Mode .............39 Set up: Changing Camera Settings in Guide Mode ................40 More on Photography (All Modes) Focus ............................41 Focus Mode..........................41 AF-Area Mode ..........................44 Focus Point Selection ......................46 Focus Lock ..........................46 Manual Focus ...........................48...
  • Page 10 Picture Controls........................87 Selecting a Picture Control....................87 Modifying Picture Controls ....................88 More on Playback Full-Frame Playback........................91 Photo Information........................92 Thumbnail Playback .......................97 Calendar Playback ........................98 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom................99 Protecting Photographs from Deletion................ 100 Deleting Photographs ......................101 Full-Frame, Thumbnail, and Calendar Playback............101 The Playback Menu......................102 Slide Shows..........................
  • Page 11 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup ..................124 Reset Setup Options....................... 125 LCD Brightness ......................... 125 Info Display Format ......................125 Auto Info Display ......................127 Video Mode ........................127 Time Zone and Date....................... 127 Language ........................... 127 Image Comment......................128 Auto Image Rotation......................
  • Page 12 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)................. 162 The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)..............162 Other Accessories......................... 166 Approved Memory Cards ....................167 Attaching a Power Connector and AC Adapter............168 Caring for the Camera......................169 Storage .............................169 Cleaning...........................169 The Low-Pass Filter ......................170 Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions............. 174 Available Settings.........................
  • Page 13: For Your Safety

    For Your Safety To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others, read the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equipment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them. The consequences that could result from failure to observe the precautions listed in this section are indicated by the following symbol: This icon marks warnings.
  • Page 14 Observe proper precautions when handling Observe proper precautions when handling the batteries quick charger Batteries may leak or explode if • Keep dry. Failure to observe this improperly handled. Observe the precaution could result in fire or electric following precautions when handling shock.
  • Page 15: Notices

    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. D3000 These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful CAUTIONS interference in a residential installation.
  • Page 16 Notices for Customers in Canada CAUTION ATTENTION This Class B digital apparatus complies with Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est Canadian ICES-003. conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada. Notice for Customers in Europe This symbol indicates that this This symbol on the battery product is to be collected indicates that the battery is to be...
  • Page 17 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 18 Before Taking Important Pictures Before taking pictures on important occasions (such as at weddings or before taking the camera on a trip), take a test shot to ensure that the camera is functioning normally. Nikon will not be held liable for damages or lost profits that may result from product malfunction. Life-Long Learning As part of Nikon’s “Life-Long Learning”...
  • Page 19: Introduction

    Introduction Overview Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. To get the most from your camera, please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly and keep them where they will be read by all who use the product. ❚❚...
  • Page 20: Getting To Know The Camera

    Getting to Know the Camera Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with camera controls and displays. You may find it helpful to bookmark this section and refer to it as you read through the rest of the manual. The Camera Body Mode dial ........4 Infrared receiver ....
  • Page 21 The Camera Body (Continued) Viewfinder eyepiece....23 X (playback zoom in) J (OK) button ....... 12 button........99 DK-20 rubber eyecup Memory card access lamp P (information edit) ......... 20, 29 Monitor button........7 Viewing settings ....6 O (delete) button Tripod socket Viewing pictures....32 Deleting pictures....
  • Page 22: The Mode Dial

    The Mode Dial The camera offers a choice of the following modes: ❚❚ P, S, A, and M Modes Select these modes for full control over camera settings. P—Programmed auto (0 68): A—Aperture-priority auto Camera chooses shutter (0 70): Adjust aperture to speed and aperture, user soften background details or controls other settings.
  • Page 23: The Viewfinder

    The Viewfinder Framing grid (displayed when Battery indicator ....25 Flash-ready indicator.... 29 On is selected for Number of exposures Flexible program Viewfinder options > remaining ......26 indicator ....... 68 Viewfinder grid in the Number of shots remaining Exposure indicator ....71 setup menu) .....
  • Page 24: The Information Display

    The Information Display Shooting information, including shutter speed, aperture, and the number of exposures remaining, is displayed in the monitor when the R button is pressed. R button Camera rotated 90° to shoot Camera in normal orientation in tall (portrait) orientation 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 Shooting mode...
  • Page 25 ❚❚ Changing Settings in the Information Display To change settings for the items listed in the information display, press the P button. Highlight items using the multi selector and press J to view options for the highlighted item. Some items can also be adjusted using the command dial and camera buttons (0 8).
  • Page 26: The Command Dial

    The Command Dial The command dial can be used with other controls to adjust a variety of settings when shooting information is displayed in the monitor. M button: flash mode and flash compensation E button: aperture, exposure compensation, and flash compensation Fn (E) button: release mode, image quality and size,...
  • Page 27 Set exposure compensation (mode P, S, or A; 0 76). E button Command dial Information display Mode P, S, or A Choose a flash mode (0 59). M button Command dial Information display Adjust flash compensation (mode P, S, A, or M; 0 78). M button E button P, S, A, or M...
  • Page 28: The Power Switch

    The role of the Fn (E) button can be selected using the Buttons > /Fn button option in the setup menu (0 134), allowing the following settings to be adjusted by pressing the Fn (E) button and rotating the command dial: Fn (E) button Command dial Release mode (0 53)
  • Page 29: Camera Menus

    Camera Menus Most shooting, playback, and setup options can be accessed from the camera menus. To view the menus, press the G button. G button Tabs Choose from the following menus: • : Playback (0 117) • : Retouch (0 140) •...
  • Page 30: Using Camera Menus

    Using Camera Menus The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the camera menus. Move cursor up J button: select highlighted item Cancel and return to Select highlighted item or previous menu display sub-menu Move cursor down Follow the steps below to navigate the menus. Display the menus.
  • Page 31 Position the cursor in the selected menu. Press 2 to position the cursor in the selected menu. Highlight a menu item. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a menu item. Display options. Press 2 to display options for the selected menu item.
  • Page 32: First Steps

    First Steps Charge the Battery The camera is powered by an EN-EL9a rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied). To maximize shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-23 quick charger before use. About one hour and forty minutes are required to fully recharge the battery when no charge remains.
  • Page 33: Insert The Battery

    Insert the Battery Turn the camera off. Power switch Inserting and Removing Batteries Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing batteries. Open the battery-chamber cover. Unlatch (q) and open (w) the battery-chamber cover. Insert the battery. Insert the battery as shown at right. Close the battery-chamber cover.
  • Page 34: 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 index Focal length scale Mounting index CPU contacts (0 158)
  • Page 35 ❚❚ Detaching the Lens Be sure the camera is off when removing or exchanging lenses. To remove the lens, press and hold the lens release button (q) while turning the lens clockwise (w). After removing the lens, replace the lens caps and camera body cap. ❚❚...
  • Page 36: 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. Power switch A language-selection dialog will be displayed.
  • Page 37 Set the date and time. The dialog shown at right will be displayed. Press 4 or 2 to select an item, 1 or 3 to change. Press J to set the clock and exit to shooting mode. The Setup Menu Language and date/time settings can be changed at any time using the Language (0 127) and Time zone and date (0 127) options in the setup menu.
  • Page 38: Insert A Memory Card

    Insert a Memory Card The camera stores pictures on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (available separately). Turn the camera off. Power switch 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 39: 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 (0 105).
  • Page 40 Memory Cards • Memory cards may be hot after use. Observe due caution when removing memory cards from the camera. • Turn the power off before inserting or removing memory cards. Do not remove memory cards from the camera, turn the camera off, or remove or disconnect the power source during formatting or while data are being recorded, deleted, or copied to a computer.
  • Page 41: Adjust Viewfinder Focus

    Adjust Viewfinder Focus The camera is equipped with diopter adjustment to accommodate individual differences in vision. Check that the display in the viewfinder is in focus before framing pictures in the viewfinder. Remove the lens cap and turn the camera Power switch Focus the viewfinder.
  • Page 43: Basic Photography And Playback

    Basic Photography and Playback “Point-and-Shoot” Photography (i and j Modes) This section describes how to take photographs in i (auto) mode, an automatic “point-and-shoot” mode in which the majority of settings are controlled by the camera in response to shooting conditions, and in which the flash will fire automatically if the subject is poorly lit.
  • Page 44 Check the number of exposures remaining. The information display and viewfinder show the number of photographs that can be stored on the memory card. Check the number of exposures remaining. If there is not enough memory to store additional photographs at current settings, a warning will be displayed.
  • Page 45: Step 2: Select I Or J Mode

    Step 2: Select i or j Mode To shoot where use of a flash is prohibited, Mode dial photograph infants, or capture natural lighting under low light conditions, rotate the mode dial to j. Otherwise, rotate the mode dial to i. j mode i mode Step 3: Frame the Photograph...
  • Page 46: Step 4: Focus

    Using a Zoom Lens Use the zoom ring to zoom in on the subject so that it fills a Zoom in larger area of the frame, or zoom out to increase the area visible in the final photograph (select longer focal lengths Zoom ring on the lens focal length scale index to zoom in, shorter focal lengths to zoom out).
  • Page 47: Step 5: Shoot

    Step 5: Shoot Smoothly press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to release the shutter and record the photograph. The access lamp next to the memory card slot cover will light and the photograph will be displayed in the monitor for a few seconds (the photo will automatically clear from the display when the Access lamp shutter-release button is pressed halfway).
  • Page 48: Creative Photography (Scene Modes)

    Creative Photography (Scene Modes) The camera offers a choice of “scene” modes. Choosing a scene mode automatically optimizes settings to suit the selected scene, making creative photography as simple as selecting a mode, framing a picture, and shooting as described on pages 25–29. ❚❚...
  • Page 49: Child

    Child Close Up Use for snapshots of children. Clothing Use for close-up shots of flowers, insects, and background details are vividly and other small objects (a macro lens can rendered, while skin tones remain soft be used to focus at very close ranges). and natural.
  • Page 50: Basic Playback

    Additional pictures can be displayed by pressing 4 or 2 or rotating the command dial. To view additional information on the current photograph, press 1 and 3 (0 92). 1/ 12 NIKON D3000 1 250 35mm – 1. 3 + 1. 0 AUTO A6, M1 100D3000 DSC_0001.
  • Page 51: Deleting Unwanted Photographs

    Deleting Unwanted Photographs To delete the photograph currently displayed in the monitor, press the O button. Note that photographs can not be recovered once deleted. Display the photograph. Display the photograph you wish to delete as described on the preceding page. Delete the photograph.
  • Page 53: Guide Mode

    Guide Mode The Guide Menu The guide menu gives access to a variety of frequently-used and useful functions. The top level of the guide menu is displayed when the mode dial is rotated to g. Choose from the following menus: Shoot View/delete Set up...
  • Page 54 The following operations can be performed while the guide menu is displayed: Description Press 1 or 3 to highlight options in the guide menu. Press 1, 3, 4, or 2 to highlight Highlight options in displays like that shown at options right.
  • Page 55: Shoot: Taking Pictures In Guide Mode

    Shoot: Taking Pictures in Guide Mode Select Shoot to take pictures using settings that suit the scene. Press G to display Press J to display options Highlight Shoot guide menu Highlight Shoot in the top level of the guide menu and press J to display the following options: Easy operation 1, 2...
  • Page 56 To select a scene (Easy operation > Auto in this example): Press 2 Highlight an option Highlight a scene Press 2 Press J to view camera settings in the Highlight Start shooting (to adjust the settings listed below, select More information display (0 6) settings) ❚❚...
  • Page 57: View/Delete: Viewing And Deleting Pictures In Guide Mode

    View/Delete: Viewing and Deleting Pictures in Guide Mode Select View/delete to view and delete pictures. Press G to display Highlight View/delete Press J to display options guide menu Highlight View/delete in the top level of the guide menu and press J to display the following options: View single photos View multiple photos...
  • Page 58: Set Up: Changing Camera Settings In Guide Mode

    Set up: Changing Camera Settings in Guide Mode Select Set up to format memory cards or adjust camera settings. Press G to display Press J to display options Highlight Set up guide menu Highlight Set up in the top level of the guide menu and press J to display the following options: Image quality LCD brightness...
  • Page 59: More On Photography (All Modes)

    More on Photography (All Modes) Focus Focus can be adjusted automatically or manually (see “Focus Mode, ” below). The user can also select the focus point for automatic or manual focus (0 46) or use focus lock to focus to recompose photographs after focusing (0 46). Focus Mode Choose from automatic and manual focus modes.
  • Page 60 Choose a focus mode. Highlight one of the following options and press J. Note that AF-S and AF-C are available only in modes P, S, A, and M. Option Description Auto-servo Camera automatically selects single-servo autofocus if subject is AF-A stationary, continuous-servo autofocus if subject is moving.
  • Page 61 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: • During continuous-servo autofocus or manual focus •...
  • Page 62: Af-Area Mode

    AF-Area Mode Choose how the focus point for autofocus is selected. Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display. R button Information display P button...
  • Page 63 Choose an AF-area mode. Highlight one of the following options and press J. f 3D-tracking (11 points) is not available when AF-S is selected for focus mode. Option Description User selects focus point using multi selector (0 46); camera focuses c Single point on subject in selected focus point only.
  • Page 64: Focus Point Selection

    Focus Point Selection In manual focus mode or when autofocus is combined with AF-area modes other than e Auto-area, you can choose from 11 focus points, making it possible to compose photographs with the main subject almost anywhere in the frame. Choose an AF-area mode other than e Auto-area Select the focus point.
  • Page 65 Lock focus. AF-A and AF-C focus modes: With the shutter-release Shutter-release button button pressed halfway (q), press the AE-L/AF-L button (w) to lock both focus and exposure (an AE-L icon will be displayed in the viewfinder). Focus will remain locked while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed, even if you later remove your finger from the shutter-release button.
  • Page 66: 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 42). Set the lens focus-mode switch. M/A-M A-M switch switch If the lens is equipped with an A-M or M/A-M switch, slide the switch to M.
  • Page 67 ❚❚ The Electronic Rangefinder If the lens has a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, the viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm whether the subject in the selected focus point is in focus (the focus point can be selected from any of the 11 focus points). After positioning the subject in the selected focus point, press the shutter-release button halfway and rotate the lens focus ring until the in-focus indicator (I) is displayed.
  • Page 68: 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 (0 177).
  • Page 69 Option File type Description NEF/ Two images are recorded: one NEF (RAW) image and one basic- NEF (RAW) + JPEG basic JPEG quality JPEG image. NEF (RAW) Images Note that the option selected for image size does not affect the size of NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW)+JPEG images.
  • Page 70: Image Size

    Image Size Image size is measured in pixels. Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display. R button Information display P button...
  • Page 71: Release Mode

    Release Mode Release mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time, in a continuous sequence, or with a timed shutter-release delay or remote control. Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display.
  • Page 72 The Memory Buffer The camera is equipped with a memory buffer for temporary storage, allowing shooting to continue while photographs are being saved to the memory card. Up to 100 photographs can be taken in succession; note, however, that frame rate will drop when the buffer is full. While photographs are being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the memory card slot will light.
  • Page 73: Self-Timer And Remote Modes

    Self-Timer and Remote Modes The self-timer and optional ML-L3 wireless remote control (0 167) can be used to reduce camera shake or for self-portraits. Mount the camera on a tripod. Mount the camera on a tripod or place the camera on a stable, level surface. Select a release mode (0 53).
  • Page 74 Take the photograph. Self-timer mode: Press the shutter- release button halfway to focus, and then press the button the rest of the way down to start the self-timer. The self-timer lamp will start to blink and a beep will begin to sound. Two seconds before the photograph is taken, the self-timer lamp will stop blinking and the beeping will become...
  • Page 75 Before Using the Remote Control Before using the remote control for the first time, remove the clear plastic battery insulator sheet. Using the Built-in Flash Before taking a photograph with the flash in P, S, A, or M modes, press the M button to raise the flash and wait for the M indicator to be displayed in the viewfinder (0 58).
  • Page 76: 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 59). 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 77: Flash Mode

    Flash Mode To choose a flash mode: Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display. R button Information display P button Display flash mode options.
  • Page 78 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 79 Aperture, Sensitivity, and Flash Range Flash range varies with sensitivity (ISO equivalency) and aperture. Aperture at ISO equivalent of Approximate range 1600 1.0–8.5 3ft. 3in.–27ft. 11n. 0.7–6.0 2ft. 4in.–19ft. 8in. 0.6–4.2 2ft.–13ft. 9in. 0.6–3.0 2ft.–9ft. 10in. 0.6–2.1 2ft.–6ft. 11in. 0.6–1.5 2ft.–4ft.
  • Page 80: Iso Sensitivity

    ISO Sensitivity “ISO sensitivity” is the digital equivalent of film speed. The higher the ISO sensitivity, the less light needed to make an exposure, allowing higher shutter speeds or smaller apertures. Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display.
  • Page 81 AUTO If the mode dial is rotated to P, S, A, or M after AUTO is selected for ISO sensitivity in another mode, the ISO sensitivity last selected in P, S, A, or M mode will be restored. Hi 1 Pictures taken at this setting are more likely to be subject to noise and color distortion.
  • Page 82: Active D-Lighting

    Active D-Lighting If 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 83 Active D-Lighting Noise (graininess, banding, and mottling) may appear in photographs taken with Active D-Lighting at high ISO sensitivities. More time is required to record images when Active D-Lighting is on. “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 (0 142) optimizes dynamic range in images after shooting.
  • Page 85: 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 68) there is little time to adjust camera settings.
  • Page 86: 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 87: 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 88: 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 89: 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 90 ❚❚ Long Time-Exposures (M Mode Only) Shutter speeds of “bulb” and “time“ can be used for long time-exposure photographs of moving lights, the stars, night scenery, or fireworks. To prevent blurring caused by camera shake, use a tripod and an optional remote control (0 167). Length of exposure: 35 s Aperture: f/25 Shutter speed...
  • Page 91 Open the shutter. Bulb: After focusing, press the shutter-release button all the way down. Keep the shutter-release button pressed until the exposure is complete. Time: Press the shutter-release button on the remote control all the way down. The shutter will open immediately (quick-response remote) or two seconds after the shutter-release button is pressed (delayed remote) and remain open until the button is pressed a second time.
  • Page 92: Exposure

    Exposure Metering Choose how the camera sets exposure in P, S, A, and M modes (in other modes, the camera selects the metering method automatically). Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button. Press the P button to place the cursor in the information display.
  • Page 93: Autoexposure Lock

    Autoexposure Lock Use autoexposure lock to recompose photographs after metering exposure: Select M Center-weighted or N Spot metering (0 74). L Matrix metering will not produce the desired results. Lock exposure. Shutter-release button Position the subject in the selected focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway.
  • Page 94: Exposure Compensation

    Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker. It is most effective when used with center-weighted or spot metering (0 74). Place the cursor in the information display. If shooting information is not displayed in the monitor, press the R button.
  • Page 95 The E Button Exposure compensation can also be set by pressing the E button and rotating the command dial. The selected value is shown in the viewfinder and information display. E button Command dial –0.3 EV +2 EV Mode M In mode M, exposure compensation affects only the exposure indicator;...
  • Page 96: Flash Compensation

    Flash Compensation Flash compensation is used to alter flash output from the level suggested by the camera, changing the brightness of the main subject relative to the background. Flash output can be increased to make the main subject appear brighter, or reduced to prevent unwanted highlights or reflections.
  • Page 97 The Y (M) and E Buttons Flash compensation can also be set by rotating the command dial while pressing the Y (M) and E buttons. The selected value is shown in the viewfinder and information display. Y (M) button E button Command dial –0.3 EV +1 EV...
  • Page 98: White Balance

    White Balance White balance ensures that colors are unaffected by the color of the light source. Auto white balance is recommended for most light sources; in P, S, A, and M modes, other values can be selected if necessary according to the type of source: Place the cursor in the information display.
  • Page 99 The Shooting Menu White balance can be selected using the White balance option in the shooting menu (0 119), which also can be used to fine-tune white balance (0 82) or measure a value for preset white balance (0 83). 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 100: 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 101: 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 102 When the camera is ready to measure white balance, a flashing D (L) will appear in the viewfinder and information display. Measure white balance. Before the indicators stop flashing, frame the reference object so that it fills the viewfinder and press the shutter-release button all the way down.
  • Page 103 Measuring Preset White Balance If no operations are performed while the displays are flashing, direct measurement mode will end when the exposure meters turn off. The auto meter-off delay can be changed using the Auto off timers option in the setup menu (0 130). The default setting is eight seconds. Preset White Balance The camera can store only one value for preset white balance at a time;...
  • Page 104 ❚❚ 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 105: Picture Controls

    Picture Controls Nikon’s unique Picture Control system makes it possible to share image processing settings, including sharpening, contrast, 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 106: 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 107 ❚❚ 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 108 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 109: More On Playback

    More on Playback Full-Frame Playback To play photographs back, press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor. K button Description View additional Press 2 to view photographs in order recorded, 4 to view photographs photographs in reverse order.
  • Page 110: Photo Information

    – 1. 3 + 1. 0 AUTO A6, M1 100D3000 N N OR ORMAL AL 100D3000 DSC_0001. JPG NOR ORMAL AL 0001. JPG N I KON D3000 15/04/2009 10 3872x2592 N I KON D3000 1/12 1/12 15/04/2009 10 3872x2592 File information...
  • Page 111 Histogram (RGB channel). In all histograms, horizontal axis gives pixel brightness, vertical axis number of pixels. Histogram (red channel) N I KON D3000 1/ 12 Histogram (green channel) Histogram (blue channel) Frame number/total number of images * Displayed only if RGB histogram is selected for Display mode (0 118).
  • Page 112 Frame number/total number of images H i g h l i g ht s 1/12 N I KON D3000 * Displayed only if Highlights is selected for Display mode (0 118). Blinking areas indicate highlights. ❚❚ Shooting Data Page 1 Metering ............74...
  • Page 113 SHARPEN ING CONTRAST : ACT. D-L I GHT. BRI GHTNESS : ACT. D-L I GHT. Contrast ............89 SATURAT ION Brightness Saturation ............89 N I KON D3000 1/12 Filter effects ..........89 ..............89 Protect status..........100 Toning .............89 Retouch indicator ........141 Camera name White balance ..........
  • Page 114 ❚❚ Overview Data Histogram showing the distribution of tones in the image (0 93). NIKON D3000 1/ 12 ISO sensitivity ..........62 Focal length ..........161 Image comment indicator.......128 1 250 35mm Flash mode............59 – 1. 3 + 1. 0 Flash compensation........
  • Page 115: Thumbnail Playback

    Thumbnail Playback To display images in “contact sheets” of four, nine, or 72 images, press the W button. Full-frame Calendar playback playback Thumbnail playback Description Display more Press W button to increase the number of images displayed. images Press X button to reduce the number of images displayed. Display fewer When four images are displayed, press to view highlighted images...
  • Page 116: Calendar Playback

    Calendar Playback To view images taken on a selected date, press the W button when 72 images are displayed. Full-frame Calendar playback playback Thumbnail playback Press the W button to toggle between the date list Thumbnail list and the list of thumbnails for the selected date. Use the multi selector to highlight dates in the date list or to highlight pictures in the thumbnail list.
  • Page 117: 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 25×...
  • Page 118: Protecting Photographs From Deletion

    Protecting Photographs from Deletion In full-frame, zoom, thumbnail, and calendar playback, the L button can be used to protect photographs from accidental deletion. Protected files can not be deleted using the O button or the Delete option in the playback menu. Note that protected images will be deleted when the memory card is formatted (0 21).
  • Page 119: 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 120: 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 (0 117).
  • Page 121 ❚❚ Select Date: Deleting Photographs Taken on a Selected Date Choose Select Date. In the delete menu, highlight Select date and press 2. Highlight a date. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a date. To view the pictures taken on the highlighted date, press W.
  • Page 122: 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 ( 117). Select Slide show. To display the slide show menu, press the G button and select Slide show in the playback menu.
  • Page 123: Connections

    Connections Connecting to a Computer This section describes how to use the supplied UC-E4 USB cable to connect the camera to a computer. Before Connecting the Camera Before connecting the camera, install the software on the supplied Software Suite CD. To ensure that data transfer is not interrupted, be sure the camera EN-EL9a battery is fully charged.
  • Page 124: Connecting The Camera

    Connecting the Camera Connect the camera using the supplied USB cable. Turn the camera off. Turn the computer on. Turn the computer on and wait for it to start up. Connect the USB cable. Connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle.
  • Page 125: Printing Photographs

    Printing Photographs To print selected JPEG pictures on a PictBridge printer via a direct USB connection, follow the steps below. Take photographs Select photographs for printing using Print set (DPOF) (0 114) Connect camera to printer (see below) Print photographs one at a Print multiple photographs Create index prints time (0 108)
  • Page 126: Printing Pictures One At A Time

    Turn the camera on. A welcome screen will be displayed in the monitor, followed by a PictBridge playback display. Printing Pictures One at a Time Select a picture. Press 4 or 2 to view additional pictures, or press 1 or 3 to view photo information (0 92). Press the X button to zoom in on the current frame (0 99;...
  • Page 127 Option Description This option is available only if supported by current printer. Menu shown at right will be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to choose print style from Printer default (print Border using current printer settings), Print with border (print photo with white border), or No border, then press to select and return to previous menu.
  • Page 128: Printing Multiple Pictures

    Printing Multiple Pictures Display the PictBridge menu. Press the G button in the PictBridge playback display (see Step 3 on page 108). G button Choose an option. Highlight one of the following options and press 2. • Print select: Select pictures for printing. •...
  • Page 129 Select pictures or choose a date. If you chose Print select or Print (DPOF) in Step 2, use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture full screen, press and hold the X button. To select the current picture for printing, press the W button and press 1.
  • Page 130 Display printing options. Press J to display PictBridge printing options. Adjust printing options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. Option Description Menu of page sizes will be displayed (0 108; options not supported by current printer are not listed).
  • Page 131: Creating Index Prints

    Creating Index Prints To create an index print of all JPEG pictures on the memory card, select Index print in Step 2 of “Printing Multiple Pictures” (0 110). Note that if the memory card contains more than 256 pictures, only the first 256 images will be printed. Select Index print.
  • Page 132: Creating A Dpof Print Order: Print Set

    Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set The Print set (DPOF) option in the playback menu is used to create digital “print orders” for PictBridge-compatible printers and devices that support DPOF. Selecting Print set (DPOF) from the playback menu displays the menu shown in Step 1. Choose Select/set.
  • Page 133 Select imprint options. Highlight the following options and press 2 to toggle the highlighted option on or off (to complete the print order without including this information, proceed to Step 5). • Data imprint: Print shutter speed and aperture on all pictures in print order. •...
  • Page 134: Viewing Photographs On Tv

    Viewing Photographs on TV An EG-D100 video cable (available separately) can be used to connect the camera to a television or VCR for playback or recording. Before connecting the camera, confirm that the camera video standard (0 127) matches that used in the TV. Turn the camera off.
  • Page 135: 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 — Slide show — Playback folder Current 117 Frame interval...
  • Page 136: Display Mode

    G button ➜ D playback menu Display Mode Choose the information available in the playback photo information display (0 92). Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option, then press 2 to select the option for the photo information display. A M appears next to selected items; to deselect, highlight and press 2.
  • Page 137: 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 — sRGB Reset shooting options Color space Set Picture Control Standard Noise reduction...
  • Page 138: Iso Sensitivity Settings

    G button ➜ C shooting menu ISO Sensitivity Settings Adjust ISO sensitivity (0 62). ❚❚ Auto ISO Sensitivity If Off is chosen for Auto ISO sensitivity in P, S, A, and M modes, ISO sensitivity will remain fixed at the value selected by the user (0 62).
  • Page 139: Color Space

    G button ➜ C shooting menu Color Space The color space determines the gamut of colors available for color reproduction. Choose sRGB for photographs that will be printed or used “as is, ” with no further modification. Adobe RGB has a wider color gamut and is recommended for images that will be extensively processed or retouched after leaving the camera.
  • Page 140: Noise Reduction

    G button ➜ C shooting menu Noise Reduction If On is selected, photographs taken at shutter speeds slower than 8 s or at ISO sensitivities over ISO 400 will be processed to reduce noise. The time required for processing is roughly equal to the current shutter speed;...
  • Page 141: Built-In Flash

    G button ➜ C shooting menu Built-in Flash 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 142: 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 Dust Off ref photo Format memory card —...
  • Page 143: Reset Setup Options

    G button ➜ B setup menu Reset Setup Options Select Yes to reset setup menu all settings except Video mode, Time zone and date, Language, and Active folder to the defaults listed on page 124. G button ➜ B setup menu LCD Brightness The LCD brightness menu contains the following options: •...
  • Page 144 Select a background color. Highlight a background color and press J. Choose from blue, black, or orange (Classic) or green, black, or brown (Graphic). The “Classic” display is shown below. Camera rotated 90° to shoot in tall (portrait) orientation Camera in normal orientation 24 23 16 17 18 19 20 10 9 11...
  • Page 145: Auto Info Display

    G button ➜ B setup menu Auto Info Display This option can be set separately for auto and scene modes and for P, S, A, and M modes. If On is selected, the information display will appear after the shutter-release button is pressed halfway;...
  • Page 146: Image Comment

    G button ➜ B setup menu Image Comment Add a comment to new photographs as they are taken. Comments can be viewed as metadata in ViewNX (supplied) or Capture NX 2 (available separately; 0 167). The comment is also visible on the third shooting data page in the photo information display (0 95).
  • Page 147: Dust Off Ref Photo

    G button ➜ B setup menu Dust off Ref Photo Acquire reference data for the Image Dust Off option in Capture NX 2 (available separately; for more information, see the Capture NX 2 manual). Dust off ref photo is available only when a CPU lens is mounted on the camera. A lens with a focal length of at least 50 mm is recommended.
  • Page 148: Auto Off Timers

    Acquire dust off reference data. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to acquire Image Dust Off reference data. The monitor turns off when the shutter-release button is pressed. Note that noise reduction will be performed if the subject is poorly lit, increasing recording times.
  • Page 149: Self-Timer Delay

    G button ➜ B setup menu Self-Timer Delay Choose the length of the shutter release delay in self-timer mode (0 55). G button ➜ B setup menu Remote on Duration Choose how long the camera will wait for a signal from the remote before cancelling delayed or quick-response remote mode and restoring single-frame or continuous mode (0 56).
  • Page 150: Viewfinder Options

    G button ➜ B setup menu Viewfinder Options Display a framing grid in the viewfinder or choose whether the exposure indicator in the viewfinder can be used as a focusing aid in manual focus mode. ❚❚ Viewfinder Grid Choose On to display on-demand grid lines in the viewfinder for reference when composing photographs.
  • Page 151: File Number Sequence

    G button ➜ B setup menu File Number Sequence When a photograph is taken, the camera names the file by adding one to the last file number used. This option controls whether file numbering continues from the last number used when a new folder is created, the memory card is formatted, or a new memory card is inserted in the camera.
  • Page 152: Buttons

    G button ➜ B setup menu Buttons Choose the roles played by the E/Fn and AE-L/AF-L buttons. ❚❚ E/Fn Button Choose the role played by the Fn (E) button. Fn (E) button Option Description E Self-timer Press the Fn (E) button to toggle self-timer mode on and off (0 57). Press the Fn (E) button and rotate the command dial to select the I Release mode release mode (0 53).
  • Page 153 ❚❚ AE-L/AF-L Choose the role played by the AE-L/AF-L button. AE-L/AF-L button Option Description B AE/AF lock Focus and exposure lock while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed. C AE lock only Exposure locks while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed. F AF lock only Focus locks while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed.
  • Page 154: No Memory Card

    G button ➜ B setup menu No Memory Card? If Release locked is selected, the shutter-release button is only enabled when a memory card is inserted in the camera. Selecting Enable release allows the shutter to be released when no memory card is inserted, although no pictures will be recorded (they will however be displayed in the monitor in demo mode).
  • Page 155 ❚❚ Date Counter Pictures taken while this option is in effect are imprinted with the number of days remaining until a future date or the number days elapsed since a past date. Use it to track the growth of a child or count down the days until a birthday or wedding.
  • Page 156: Active Folder

    Create, rename, or delete folders, or choose the folder in which subsequent photographs will be stored. • Select folder: Choose the folder in which subsequent photographs will be stored. Current folder D3000 (default folder) Other folders (in alphabetical order) • New: Create a new folder and name it as described below.
  • Page 157: Eye-Fi Upload

    G button ➜ B setup menu Eye-Fi Upload This option is displayed only when an Eye-Fi memory card (available separately from third-party suppliers) is inserted in the camera. Choose Enable to upload photographs to a preselected destination. Note that pictures will not be uploaded if signal strength is insufficient.
  • Page 158: 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 159: Creating Retouched Copies

    Creating Retouched Copies To create a retouched copy: Display a photo full frame (0 91). Retouch The camera may not be able to display or retouch images created with other devices. Press J to display the retouch menu. Monitor off Delay The monitor will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for the length of time selected for Auto off timers.
  • Page 160: D-Lighting

    G button ➜ N retouch menu D-Lighting 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 161: Trim

    G button ➜ N retouch menu Trim Create a cropped copy of the selected photograph. The selected photograph is displayed with the selected crop shown in yellow; create a cropped copy as described in the following table. Description Press the X button to increase the size of the crop. Increase size of crop Reduce size of crop Press the W button to reduce the size of the crop.
  • Page 162: Filter Effects

    G button ➜ N retouch menu Filter Effects 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 163: Color Balance

    G button ➜ N retouch menu Color Balance Use the multi selector to create a copy with modified color balance as shown below. The effect is displayed in the monitor together with red, green, and blue histograms (0 93) giving the distribution of tones in the copy.
  • Page 164 Choose Select image. Highlight Select image and press 2. Select pictures. Highlight pictures using the multi selector and press the W button to select or deselect. Selected pictures are marked by an icon. To view the highlighted photograph full frame, press and hold the X button. W button Press J to complete the operation.
  • Page 165: Image Overlay

    G button ➜ N retouch menu Image Overlay Image overlay combines two existing NEF (RAW) photographs to create a single picture that is saved separately from the originals; the results, which make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor, are noticeably better than overlays created in an imaging application.
  • Page 166 Set gain. Highlight Image 1 or Image 2 and optimize exposure for the overlay by pressing 1 or 3 to set gain for the selected image to values between 0.1 and 2.0. Repeat for the second image. The default value is 1.0; selecting 0.5 cuts gain in half, while selecting 2.0 doubles gain.
  • Page 167: Nef (Raw) Processing

    G button ➜ N retouch menu NEF (RAW) Processing Create JPEG copies of NEF (RAW) photographs. Select NEF (RAW) processing. Highlight NEF (RAW) processing in the retouch menu and press 2 to display a picture selection dialog listing only NEF (RAW) images created with this camera.
  • Page 168: Quick Retouch

    G button ➜ N retouch menu Quick Retouch Create copies with enhanced saturation and contrast. D-Lighting is applied as required to brighten dark or backlit subjects. Press 1 or 3 to choose the amount of enhancement. The effect can be previewed in the edit display. Press J to copy the photograph.
  • Page 169: Stop-Motion Movie

    G button ➜ N retouch menu Stop-Motion Movie Selecting Stop-motion movie from the retouch menu displays the menu shown in Step 1. Follow the steps below to create a stop-motion movie from photographs taken with the camera. Choose the frame size. Highlight Frame size and press 2 to display a menu of frame size options.
  • Page 170 Select Save. The menu shown at right will be displayed; if no further edits are necessary, highlight Save and press J to proceed to Step 7. To edit the movie, highlight Edit and press J. The following options will be displayed: •...
  • Page 171 ❚❚ Viewing Stop-Motion Movies To view stop-motion movies, select the Stop-motion movie option in the playback menu (0 117). A list of existing stop-motion movies will be displayed; press 4 and 2 to highlight a movie and press J to begin playback.
  • Page 172: Before And After

    Before and After 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 173: 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 175: Technical Notes

    Technical Notes Compatible Lenses Compatible CPU Lenses Autofocus is available with AF-S and AF-I CPU lenses only; autofocus is not supported with other autofocus (AF) lenses. IX NIKKOR lenses can not be used. The features available with compatible CPU lenses are listed below: Camera setting Focus Mode...
  • Page 176 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 177: Compatible Non-Cpu Lenses

    6 Attach in vertical orientation (can be used in horizontal orientation once attached). Incompatible Accessories and Non-CPU Lenses The following accessories and non-CPU lenses can be used with the D3000: • TC-16AS AF teleconverter • Non-AI lenses • Lenses that require the AU-1 focusing unit (400mm f/4.5, 600mm f/5.6, 800mm f/8, 1200mm f/11) •...
  • Page 178 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 179 The size of the area exposed by a 35mm camera is 36 × 24 mm. The size of the area exposed by the D3000, in contrast, is 23.6 × 15.8 mm, meaning that the picture angle of a 35mm camera is approximately 1.5 times that of the D3000. The approximate focal length of lenses for the D3000 in 35mm format can be calculated by multiplying the focal length of the lens by about 1.5.
  • Page 180: Optional Flash Units (Speedlights)

    Optional Flash Units (Speedlights) The camera supports the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) and can be used with CLS-compatible flash units. Optional flash units can be attached directly to the camera accessory shoe as described below. The accessory shoe is equipped with a safety lock for flash units with a locking pin, such as the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400.
  • Page 181 ❚❚ CLS-Compatible Flash Units The camera can be used with the following CLS-compatible flash units: • The SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200: Flash unit Feature SB-900 SB-800 SB-600 SB-400 SB-R200 34/111 38/125 30/98 21/69 10/33 Guide ISO 100 ISO 200 48/157 53/174 42/138...
  • Page 182 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 D3000 is not included in the “digital SLR” category in the SB-80DX, SB-28DX, and SB-50DX manuals.
  • Page 183 Notes on Optional Flash Units (Continued) The SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400 provide red-eye reduction, while the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SU-800 provide AF-assist illumination with the following restrictions: • SB-900: AF-assist illumination is available for all focus points; with 17–135 mm AF lenses, however, autofocus is not available with the focus points shown in gray.
  • Page 184: Other Accessories

    Use Nikon filters; filters manufactured by other makers may interfere with autofocus or the electronic rangefinder. • The D3000 can not be used with linear polarizing filters. Use the C-PL circular polarizing filter instead. • The NC and L37C filters are recommended for protecting the lens.
  • Page 185: Approved Memory Cards

    (w). Ensure that the battery is inserted in the correct orientation (r). Approved Memory Cards The following SD memory cards have been tested and approved for use in the D3000. All cards of the designated make and capacity can be used, regardless of speed. †...
  • Page 186: Attaching A Power Connector And Ac Adapter

    Attaching a Power Connector and AC Adapter Turn the camera off before attaching an optional power connector and AC adapter. Ready the camera. Open the battery-chamber (q) and power connector (w) covers. Insert the EP-5 power connector. Be sure to insert the connector in the correct orientation. Close the battery-chamber cover.
  • Page 187: Caring For The Camera

    Caring for the Camera Storage When the camera will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry area with the terminal cover in place. To prevent mold or mildew, store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area. Do not store your camera with naphtha or camphor moth balls or in locations that: •...
  • Page 188: 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 189 ❚❚ “Clean At” Select Clean at. Display the Clean image sensor menu as described in Step 2 on the previous page. Highlight Clean at and press 2. Select an option. Highlight one of the following options and press Option Description The image sensor is automatically cleaned each time the 5 Startup camera is turned on.
  • Page 190 ❚❚ Manual Cleaning If foreign matter can not be removed from the low-pass filter using the Clean image sensor option in the setup menu (0 170), the filter can be cleaned manually as described below. Note, however, that the filter is extremely delicate and easily damaged.
  • Page 191 Nikon takes every possible precaution to prevent foreign matter from coming into contact with the low-pass filter during production and shipping. The D3000, however, is designed to be used with interchangeable lenses, and foreign matter may enter the camera when lenses are removed or exchanged.
  • Page 192: Caring For The Camera And Battery: Cautions

    Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions Do not drop: The product may malfunction if subjected to strong shocks or vibration. Keep dry: This product is not waterproof, and may malfunction if immersed in water or exposed to high levels of humidity. Rusting of the internal mechanism can cause irreparable damage. Avoid sudden changes in temperature: Sudden changes in temperature, such as those that occur when entering or leaving a heated building on a cold day, can cause condensation inside the device.
  • Page 193 To prevent mold or mildew, take the camera out of storage at least once a month. Turn the camera on and release the shutter a few times before putting it away. Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Replace the terminal cover before putting the battery away.
  • Page 194: Available Settings

    Available Settings The following table lists the settings that can be adjusted in each mode. Defaults can be restored with Reset shooting options (0 119). — — — — — — — — ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Set Picture Control ✔...
  • Page 195: Memory Card Capacity

    Memory Card Capacity The following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on a 4 GB Lexar Media Professional 133× card at different image quality and size settings. Image quality Image size File size No. of images Buffer capacity NEF (RAW)+ 9.8 MB...
  • Page 196: Exposure Program

    Exposure Program The exposure program for programmed auto is shown in the following graph: F (lens focal length) ≤ 55 mm 55 mm < F ≤ 135 mm 135 mm < F Shutter speed The maximum and minimum values for EV vary with ISO sensitivity; the above graph assumes an ISO sensitivity of ISO 100 equivalent.
  • Page 197: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If the camera fails to function as expected, check the list of common problems below before consulting your retailer or Nikon representative. Display Viewfinder is out of focus: Adjust viewfinder focus or use optional eyepiece correction lenses (0 23, 166). Viewfinder is dark: Insert a fully-charged battery (0 15, 25).
  • Page 198: Shooting (All Modes)

    Shooting (All Modes) Camera takes time to turn on: Delete files or folders. Shutter-release disabled: • Memory card is locked, full, or not inserted (0 20, 22, 26). • Built-in flash is charging (0 29). • Camera is not in focus (0 28). •...
  • Page 199: Shooting (P, S, A, M)

    Can not measure white balance: Subject is too dark or too bright (0 84). Image can not be selected as source for preset white balance: Image was not created with D3000 (0 86). Effects of Picture Control differ from image to image: A (auto) is selected for sharpening, contrast, or saturation.
  • Page 200: Playback

    Playback Flashing areas, shooting data, or graphs appear on images: Press 1 or 3 to choose photo information displayed, or change settings for Display mode (0 92, 118). NEF (RAW) image is not played back: Photo was taken at image quality of NEF+JPEG basic (0 51). Some pictures are not displayed during playback: Select All for Playback folder.
  • Page 201: Error Messages

    Error Messages This section lists the indicators and error messages that appear in the viewfinder and monitor. Warning Icons A flashing d in the monitor or s in the viewfinder indicates that a warning or error message can be displayed in the monitor by pressing the Q (W) button. Indicator Monitor Viewfinder...
  • Page 202 Indicator Monitor Viewfinder Solution This card is not formatted. Format card or turn camera off and insert new (blinks) memory card. Format card? • Reduce quality or size. • Delete photographs. Card is full (blinks) • Insert new memory card. ●...
  • Page 203 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 Nikon-authorized service (blinks) representative. Consult Nikon-authorized service representative. — Autoexposure error. Contact a Nikon-authorized service representative.
  • Page 204: Specifications

    Specifications ❚❚ Nikon D3000 Digital Camera Type Single-lens reflex digital camera Type Nikon F mount (with AF contacts) Lens mount Effective picture angle Approx. 1.5 × lens focal length (Nikon DX format) Effective pixels 10.2 million Effective pixels Image sensor Image sensor 23.6 ×...
  • Page 205 Lens Compatible lenses • AF-S or AF-I: All functions supported. • Type G or D AF NIKKOR without built-in autofocus motor: All functions except autofocus supported. IX NIKKOR lenses not supported. • Other AF NIKKOR: All functions supported except autofocus and 3D color matrix metering II.
  • Page 206 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 207 3-in., approx. 230k-dot TFT LCD with brightness adjustment Playback Full-frame and thumbnail (4, 9, or 72 images or calendar) playback with Playback playback zoom, playback of stop-motion movies created with D3000, slide show, histogram display, highlights, auto image rotation, and image comment (up to 36 characters) Interface...
  • Page 208 MH-23 quick charger Rated input AC 100–240 V (50/60 Hz) Rated output DC 8.4 V/900 mA Supported batteries Nikon EN-EL9a or EN-EL9 rechargeable Li-ion battery Charging time Approx. 1 hour and 40 minutes (EN-EL9a) or 1 hour and 30 minutes (EN-EL9) when battery is fully discharged Operating temperature 0–40 °C (+32–104 °F) Dimensions...
  • Page 209 AF-S DX NIKKOR 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR lens Type G-type AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR lens with built-in CPU and Nikon bayonet mount Nikon digital SLR cameras (DX format) Supported cameras 18–55mm Focal length f/3.5–5.6 Maximum aperture Construction 11 elements in 8 groups (including 1 aspherical element) ´...
  • Page 210 • DPOF: Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) is an industry-wide standard that allows pictures to be printed from print orders stored on the memory card. • Exif version 2.21: The D3000 supports Exif (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital Still Cameras) version 2.21, a standard in which information stored with photographs is used for optimal color reproduction when the images are output on Exif-compliant printers.
  • Page 211: Battery Life

    Battery Life The number of shots that can be taken with fully-charged batteries varies with the condition of the battery, temperature, and how the camera is used. Sample figures for EN-EL9a (1080 mAh) batteries are given below. • Single-frame release mode (CIPA standard ): Approximately 550 shots •...
  • Page 212: Index

    Index Symbols AE-L/AF-L ........135 CPU contacts........158 AE-L/AF-L button......47, 75 CPU lens........17, 157 i (Auto mode)........ 25 AF..........41–47 Creative Lighting System ..162 j (Auto (flash off) mode) ... 25 AF-area mode......44, 122 Cross screen (Filter effects) ..144 k (Portrait) ........30 AF-assist......28, 43, 161 Cyanotype........143 l (Landscape).........
  • Page 213 Flash sync speed ......187 Flexible program ......68 Landscape (Set Picture Control) 87 Page size (PictBridge) ..108, 112 Fluorescent (White balance)..80 Language ......... 18, 127 Photo info ........ 92, 118 Fn button ......... 134 Large........... 52 PictBridge ......107, 192 f-number ........70, 158 Large (Image size)......
  • Page 214 Set framing grid......134 Set Picture Control......88 Warm filter (Filter effects)..144 Setup menu........124 WB............80 Shade (White balance)....80 White balance........80 Shooting data......94, 95 Shooting menu......119 Shutter-priority auto..... 69 Shutter-release button... 29, 46, 75 Single frame (Release mode) ..53 Single point (AF-area mode)..
  • Page 216 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 Hong Kong SB9G01(11) 6MB07111-01...

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