1. 1. Product DocumentationThe documentation for this product includes the manuals listed below. Pleasebe sure to read all instructions thoroughly to get the most from your camera. Quick Start Guide The Quick Start Guide takes you through the process of unpacking and set- ting up your Nikon digital camera, taking your first photographs, and trans- ferring them to your computer. Guide to Digital Photography The Guide to Digital Photography (this manual) provides complete operat- ing instructions for your camera. Nikon View 5 Reference Manual The Nikon View 5 Reference Manual can be found in electronic format on the reference CD provided with your camera. For information on viewing the Reference Manual, see the Quick Start Guide .CAUTION: Foreign Matter on the CCDNikon takes every possible precaution to prevent foreign matter from coming into con-tact with the CCD during production and shipping. The D100, however, is designed tobe used with interchangeable lenses, and foreign matter may enter the camera whenlenses are removed or exchanged. Once inside the camera, this foreign matter mayadhere to the CCD, where it may appear in photographs taken under certain conditions.To prevent foreign matter from entering the camera, do not exchange lenses in dustyenvironments. To protect the camera when no lens is in place, be sure to replace thebody cap provided with the camera, being careful to first remove all dust and other foreignmatter that may be adhering to the body cap.Should foreign matter find its way onto the CCD, clean the CCD as instructed on pages186187 of this manual, or have the CCD cleaned by authorized Nikon service person-nel. Photographs affected by the presence of foreign matter on the CCD can be re-touched using the clean image options available in some third-party imaging software.
2. 2. How to Read This ManualFirst, be aware of the warnings, cautions, and notices on pages iivii. Next, read Overview and Getting to Know Overview the Camera to familiarize yourself with the conventions used in this manual and the names Getting to Know the Camera of camera parts, then set up your camera as de- scribed in First Steps. First Steps Basic Photography Now you are ready to take photographs and play them back. Basic Playback Choosing a Shooting Mode Image Quality and Size Sensitivity (ISO Equivalency)White Balance Once you have mastered the basics of digital photography, you can read these sections forImage Adjustment complete information on when and how to use camera controls.FocusExposure Flash Photography Self-Timer Mode Read this chapter for more on thumbnail play- back, playback zoom, and photo information.More About Playback Refer to these chapters for information on cam- era menus and custom settings Menu Guide on connecting your camera to a television or computerConnections and on optional accessories, camera care, andTechnical Notes troubleshooting. i
3. 3. For Your SafetyTo prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others,read the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equip-ment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product willread them.The consequences that could result from failure to observe the precautions listedin this section are indicated by the following symbol:This icon marks warnings, information that should be read before us-ing your Nikon product to prevent possible injury.WARNINGS Do not disassemble Touching the products internal parts Do not look at the sun through thecould result in injury. In the event of viewfindera malfunction, the product should be Viewing the sun or other strong light repaired only by a qualified technician. source through the viewfinder could Should the product break open as the cause permanent visual impairment.result of a fall or other accident, re- Turn off immediately in the event move the battery and/or AC adapter of malfunctionand then take the product to a Nikon- Should you notice smoke or an un- authorized service center for inspec- usual smell coming from the equip-tion. ment or from the AC adapter (avail-Observe proper precautions when able separately), unplug the AChandling batteries adapter and remove the battery im- Batteries may leak or explode if im- mediately, taking care to avoid burns. properly handled. Observe the follow- Continued operation could result ining precautions when handling batter- injury. After removing the battery,ies for use in this product: take the equipment to a Nikon-autho- Be sure the product is off before re- rized service center for inspection. placing the battery. If you are using an Do not use in the presence of flam-AC adapter, be sure it is unplugged. mable gas Use only batteries approved for use in Do not use electronic equipment in this equipment. the presence of flammable gas, as this Do not attempt to insert the battery could result in explosion or fire. upside down or backwards. Do not short or disassemble the bat- Do not place strap around neck tery. Placing the camera strap around your Do not expose the battery to flame or neck could result in strangulation.to excessive heat. Special care should be taken to avoid Do not immerse in or expose to water. placing the strap around the neck of Do not transport or store with metal an infant or child.objects such as necklaces or hairpins.ii
4. 4. Batteries are prone to leakage whenObserve caution when operatingfully discharged. To avoid damage to the flashthe product, be sure to remove the Using the flash close to your subjectsbattery when no charge remains.eyes could cause temporary visual im- When the battery is not in use, attach pairment. Particular care should bethe terminal cover and store in a cool observed if photographing infants,place. when the flash should be no less than Immediately after use, or when the one meter (39) from the subject.product is used on battery power for When using the viewfinderan extended period, the battery may When operating the diopter adjust-become hot. Before removing the ment control with your eye to thebattery, turn the camera off and allow viewfinder, care should be taken notthe battery to cool. to put your finger in your eye acciden- Discontinue use immediately should tally.you notice any changes in the battery,such as discoloration or deformation.Avoid contact with liquid crystal Should the monitor break, care should Use appropriate cables be taken to avoid injury due to broken When connecting cables to the input glass and to prevent liquid crystal from and output jacks, use only the cables the monitor touching the skin or en- provided or sold by Nikon for the pur- tering the eyes or mouth. pose, to maintain compliance with product regulations. Keep out of reach of children Particular care should be taken to pre- vent infants from putting the battery or other small parts into their mouths. Removing memory cards Memory cards may become hot dur- ing use. Observe due caution when removing memory cards from the camera. CD-ROMs The CD-ROMs on which the software and manuals are distributed should not be played back on audio CD equipment. Playing CD-ROMs on an audio CD player could cause hearing loss or damage the equipment.iii
5. 5. Caring for the Camera and BatteryDo not drop CleaningThe product may malfunction if subjected When cleaning the camera body, use ato strong shocks or vibration.blower to remove dust and lint, then wipegently with a soft, dry cloth. After usingKeep dryyour camera at the beach or seaside, wipeThis product is not waterproof, and may off any sand or salt using a cloth lightlymalfunction if immersed in water or ex-dampened with pure water and then dryposed to high levels of humidity. Rusting your camera thoroughly. In rare in-of the internal mechanism can cause irrepa-stances, static electricity produced by arable damage. brush or cloth may cause the LCD displaysAvoid sudden changes in temperature to light up or darken. This does not indi-Sudden changes in temperature, such ascate a malfunction, and the display willoccur when entering or leaving a heated shortly return to normal.building on a cold day, can cause conden- When cleaning the lens and mirror, re-sation inside the device. To prevent con- member that these elements are easilydensation, place the device in a carrying damaged. Dust and lint should be gen-case or a plastic bag before exposing it to tly removed with a blower. When usingsudden changes in temperature.an aerosol blower, keep the can vertical(tilting the can could result in liquid beingKeep away from strong magnetic fieldssprayed on the mirror). If you do get aDo not use or store this device in the vicin-fingerprint or other stain on the lens,ity of equipment that generates strongapply a small amount of lens cleaner to aelectromagnetic radiation or magneticsoft cloth and wipe the lens carefully.fields. Strong static charges or the mag- See Technical Notes: Caring for Yournetic fields produced by equipment such asCamera for information on cleaning theradio transmitters could interfere with theCCD.monitor, damage data stored on thememory card, or affect the products inter- Storagenal circuitry. To prevent mold or mildew, store thecamera in a dry, well-ventilated area. IfDo not touch the shutter curtainyou will not be using the product for longThe shutter curtain is extremely thin andperiods, remove the battery to preventeasily damaged. Under no circumstancesleakage and store the camera in a plasticshould you exert pressure on the curtain,bag containing a desiccant. Do not, how-poke it with cleaning tools, or subject it toever, store the camera case in a plasticpowerful air currents from a blower. Thesebag, as this may cause the material to de-actions could scratch, deform, or tear theteriorate. Note that desiccant graduallycurtain.loses its capacity to absorb moisture andHandle all moving parts with care should be replaced at regular intervals.Do not apply force to the battery-chamber, Do not store the camera with naphtha orcard-slot, or connector covers. These parts camphor moth balls, close to equipmentare especially susceptible to damage. that produces strong magnetic fields, orin areas subject to extremes of tempera-ture, for example near a space heater orin a closed vehicle on a hot day.iv
6. 6. To prevent mold or mildew, take the cam- Batteriesera out of storage at least once a month. When you turn the device on, check theTurn the camera on and release the shut- battery-level displayed in the controlter a few times before putting the cam-panel to determine whether the batteryera away again.needs to be replaced. The battery needs Store the battery in a cool, dry place.to be replaced when the battery-level in-Replace the terminal cover before puttingdicator is flashing.the battery away. Ready a spare battery and keep it fully charged when taking photographs on im-Notes on the monitor portant occasions. Depending on your lo- The monitor may contain a few pixels that cation, you may find it difficult to pur-are always lit or that do not light. This is chase replacement batteries on shorta characteristic common to all TFT LCD notice.monitors and does not indicate a mal- On cold days, the capacity of batteriesfunction. Images recorded with the prod- tends to decrease. Be sure the battery isuct will not be affected. fully charged before taking photographs Images in the monitor may be difficult to outside in cold weather. Keep a sparesee in a bright light. battery in a warm place and exchange the Do not apply pressure to the monitor; this two as necessary. Once warmed, a coldcould cause damage or malfunction. battery may recover some of its charge.Dust or lint on the monitor can be re- Should the battery terminals becomemoved with a blower. Stains can be re- dirty, wipe them off with a clean, dry clothmoved by rubbing the surface lightly with before use.a soft cloth or chamois leather. After removing the battery from the cam- Should the monitor break, care should be era, be sure to replace the terminal cover.taken to avoid injury due to broken glassand to prevent the liquid crystal from the Memory cardsmonitor touching the skin or entering the Turn the power off before inserting or re-eyes or mouth. moving memory cards. Inserting or re- Replace the monitor cover when trans-moving cards with the power on couldporting the camera or leaving it unat- render them unusable.tended.Insert memory cards as shown inTurn the product off before removing the illustration ator disconnecting the power source right. InsertingDo not unplug the product or remove the cards upside downbattery while the product is on, or while im- or backwards couldages are being recorded or deleted. Forc- damage the cam-ibly cutting power to the product in these era or the card.circumstances could result in loss of data orin damage to product memory or internalcircuitry. To prevent an accidental interrup-tion of power, avoid carrying the productfrom one location to another while the ACadapter is connected. v
7. 7. Notices No part of the manuals included with this Nikon will not be held liable for any dam-product may be reproduced, transmitted,ages resulting from the use of this prod-transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, uct.or translated into any language in any While every effort has been made to en-form, by any means, without Nikonssure that the information in these manu-prior written permission.als is accurate and complete, we would Nikon reserves the right to change the appreciate it were you to bring any errorsspecifications of the hardware and soft- or omissions to the attention of the Nikonware described in these manuals at any representative in your area (address pro-time and without prior notice. vided separately).Notice for customers in the U.S.A.Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference StatementThis equipment has been tested and foundto comply with the limits for a Class B digi-tal device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCCrules. These limits are designed to providereasonable protection against harmful in-terference in a residential installation. This CAUTIONSequipment generates, uses, and can radi- Modificationsate radio frequency energy and, if not in- The FCC requires the user to be notifiedstalled and used in accordance with the in- that any changes or modifications made tostructions, may cause harmful interference this device that are not expressly approvedto radio communications. However, there by Nikon Corporation may void the usersis no guarantee that interference will not authority to operate the equipment.occur in a particular installation. If thisequipment does cause harmful interfer- Interface Cablesence to radio or television reception, which Use the interface cables sold or provided bycan be determined by turning the equip- Nikon for your equipment. Using other in-ment off and on, the user is encouraged to terface cables may exceed the limits oftry to correct the interference by one or Class B Part 15 of the FCC rules.more of the following measures: Nikon Inc., Reorient or relocate the receiving an- 1300 Walt Whitman Road,tenna. Melville, New York Increase the separation between the 11747-3064, U.S.A.equipment and receiver. Tel.: 631-547-4200 Connect the equipment into an outlet ona circuit different from that to which thereceiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced ra-dio/television technician for help.vi
8. 8. Notice for customers in CanadaCAUTION ATTENTIONThis class B digital apparatus meets all re-Cet appareil numrique de la classe B res-quirements of the Canadian Interference pecte toutes les exigences du RglementCausing Equipment Regulations.sur le matriel brouilleur du Canada.Notice Concerning Prohibition of Copying or ReproductionNote that simply being in possession of material that has been digitally copied or repro-duced by means of a scanner, digital camera or other device may be punishable by law. Items prohibited by law from being Cautions on certain copies and repro-copied or reproducedductionsDo not copy or reproduce paper money, The government has issued cautions oncoins, securities, government bonds, or copies or reproductions of securities is-local government bonds, even if suchsued by private companies (shares, bills,copies or reproductions are stamped checks, gift certificates, etc.), commuterSample. passes, or coupon tickets, except whenThe copying or reproduction of papera minimum of necessary copies are to bemoney, coins, or securities which are cir-provided for business use by a company.culated in a foreign country is prohibited. Also, do not copy or reproduce passportsissued by the government, licenses issuedUnless the prior permission of the gov-by public agencies and private groups, IDernment has been obtained, the copyingcards, and tickets, such as passes andor reproduction of unused postagemeal coupons.stamps or post cards issued by the gov-ernment is prohibited. Comply with copyright noticesThe copying or reproduction of copy-The copying or reproduction of stampsrighted creative works such as books,issued by the government and of certifiedmusic, paintings, woodcut prints, maps,documents stipulated by law is prohib-drawings, movies, and photographs isited.prohibited except when it is done for per-sonal use at home or for similar restrictedand non-commercial use.Trademark InformationApple, the Apple logo, Macintosh, Mac OS, Power Macintosh, and PowerBook are registered trademarksof Apple Computer, Inc. Power Mac, iMac, and iBook are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. IBM andMicrodrive are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation. Microsoft andWindows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. MMX and Pentium are trademarks ofIntel Corporation. CompactFlash is a trademark of SanDisk Corporation. Lexar Media is a trademarkof Lexar Media Corporation. Zip is a registered trademark of Iomega Corporation in the U.S. and othercountries. All other trade names mentioned in this manual or the other documentation provided withyour Nikon product are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. vii
9. 9. Table of Contents For Your Safety ............................................................................................... ii Caring for the Camera and Battery .................................................................iv Notices ...........................................................................................................viIntroduction: Getting Started ......................................................................... 1 Overview: About This Manual ....................................................................... 2 Getting to Know the Camera: Camera Controls and Displays ..................... 4 First Steps: Getting the Camera Ready for Use ............................................. 14 Step 1Attach the Camera Strap ...................................................................15 Step 2Insert the Battery ............................................................................... 16 Step 3Choose a Language .......................................................................... 18 Step 4Set the Time and Date .......................................................................19 Step 5Attach a Lens .................................................................................... 20 Step 6Insert a Memory Card ........................................................................22Tutorial: Basic Photography and Playback ..................................................... 25 Basic Photography: Taking Your First Photographs .....................................26 Step 1Ready the Camera ............................................................................. 27 Step 2Adjust Camera Settings ..................................................................... 28 Step 3Frame a Photograph ..........................................................................30 Step 4Focus ................................................................................................ 31 Step 5Check Exposure ................................................................................. 32 Step 6Take the Photograph .........................................................................34 Basic Playback: Viewing Photographs ........................................................... 35Taking Photographs: The Details .................................................................... 37 The Shooting Menu ........................................................................................39 Choosing a Shooting Mode: Single Frame, Continuous, or Self-Timer ....... 41 Image Quality and Size: Making Effective Use of Memory .........................43 Image Quality ................................................................................................. 44 Image Size ...................................................................................................... 46 Sensitivity (ISO Equivalency): Reacting Faster to Light ................................48 White Balance: Keeping Colors True .............................................................50 Fine-Tuning White Balance ..............................................................................53 Preset White Balance ...................................................................................... 55 Image Adjustment: Shooting Menu Settings ...............................................58 Making Edges More Distinct: Image Sharpening .............................................58 Adjusting Contrast: Tone Compensation ......................................................... 59 Suiting Colors to Your Workflow: Color Mode ................................................60 Controlling Color: Hue Adjustment ................................................................. 62viii
10. 10. Focus: Controlling How the Camera Focuses ................................................ 63Focus Mode ....................................................................................................63Focus Area Selection ....................................................................................... 64Autofocus ...................................................................................................... 65Manual Focus ................................................................................................. 74Exposure; Controlling How the Camera Sets Exposure ................................75Metering ........................................................................................................75Exposure Mode .............................................................................................. 76Autoexposure Lock .........................................................................................84Exposure Compensation .................................................................................86Bracketing ......................................................................................................87Flash Photography: Using Built-in and Optional Speedlights ..................... 94Flash Sync Modes ........................................................................................... 96Using the Built-in Speedlight ...........................................................................98Flash Exposure Compensation ........................................................................102Using an Optional Speedlight .........................................................................103Self-Timer Mode: Delaying Shutter Release ................................................. 108Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings .............................................110More About Playback: Playback Options ....................................................... 111Single-Image Playback ....................................................................................112Photo Information ..........................................................................................114Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback ................................................116Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom ..............................................................118Protecting Photographs from Deletion ............................................................ 119Deleting Individual Photographs ..................................................................... 120Menu Guide: Index to Menu Options ............................................................121Using Camera Menus: Basic Menu Operations ............................................. 122The Playback Menu: Managing Images ........................................................ 124Deleting Photographs: Delete .........................................................................124Folder Options: Folder Designate .................................................................... 126Automated Playback: Slide Show .................................................................... 128Hiding Images During Playback: Hide Image ................................................... 130Ordering Prints: Print Set .................................................................................131Controlling Photo Info: Display Mode .............................................................134 ix
11. 11. The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options ........................................................ 135 Choosing a Settings Bank: Bank Select ...........................................................135 File Type and Compression: Image Quality ....................................................... 136 Choosing an Image Size: Resolution ............................................................... 137 Keeping Colors True: White Balance ............................................................... 138 Setting Sensitivity: ISO ....................................................................................139 Making Edges More Distinct: Image Sharpening ............................................. 140 Adjusting Contrast: Tone Compensation .........................................................141 Setting Colors Based on Workflow: Color Mode ............................................. 142 Controlling Color: Hue Adjustment .................................................................143 Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings ............................................144 The Setup Menu: Camera Setup ....................................................................161 Formatting Memory Cards: Format .................................................................162 Adjusting Monitor Brightness: LCD Brightness ................................................163 Readying the CCD for Inspection: Mirror Lock-up ...........................................163 Choosing a Video Standard: Video Mode ........................................................ 164 Adding Comments to Photographs: Image Comment .....................................164Connections: Connecting to External Devices ............................................... 167 Television Playback: Connecting Your Camera to a Video Device ...............168 Connecting to a Computer: Data Transfer and Camera Control ................. 169 Software for the D100 .................................................................................... 169 Direct USB Connection ...................................................................................172Technical Notes: Camera Care, Options, and Resources ...............................175 Optional Accessories: Lenses and Other Accessories ....................................176 Lenses for the D100 .......................................................................................176 Other Accessories ...........................................................................................180 Approved Memory Cards ................................................................................ 183 Caring for Your Camera: Storage and Maintenance .................................... 184 Storage .......................................................................................................... 184 Cleaning ......................................................................................................... 185 Troubleshooting: Understanding Error Messages and Displays ..................188 Web Resources: On-Line Resources for Nikon Users ....................................192 Specifications ..................................................................................................193Index ................................................................................................................. 198x
12. 12. OverviewIntroduction 23Getting Started Getting to Know the Camera413 First StepsThis chapter is divided into the following sections:Overview 1424Read this section for a description of how thismanual is organized and for an explanation of thesymbols and conventions used.Getting to Know the CameraBookmark this section and refer to it as you readthrough the manual for information on the namesand functions of camera parts.First StepsThis section details the steps you will take whenusing your camera for the first time: inserting thebattery and memory card, attaching a lens and cam-era strap, and setting the date, time, and language. 1
13. 13. OverviewAbout This ManualThis manual is designed to help you enjoy taking photographs with the ad-vanced Nikon D100 single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. First-time userswho cant wait to experience the simplicity and immediacy of digital photog-IntroductionOverviewraphy can follow the step-by-step instructions in the Quick Start Guide orread First Steps and Tutorial in this manual, referring to Getting to Knowthe Camera for information on the location of camera controls and displays.Once you have mastered the basics, detailed information on when and howto use the various camera settings can be found in Taking Photographs andMenu Guide. Information on what to do with your pictures once you havefinished shooting is available in Connections, which describes how to con-nect your camera to a television, video-cassette recorder, or computer.Principal Features The D100 is equipped with a large (23.7 15.6 mm/0.9 0.6) CCD with6.1 million effective pixels capable of producing photographs in three dif-ferent sizes (3008 2000, 2240 1488, and 1504 1000 pixels). Proven elements of the D1-series 3D digital matrix image control, includ-ing precise exposure control based on 3D matrix metering and TTL whitebalance for optimum color temperature measurements, have been furtherimproved for unerring color reproduction and smooth tonal transitions. Three color modes, adapted to sRGB or Adobe color spaces, are availablefor different work flows. Photographs are stored in a temporary memory buffer during shooting,allowing up to six photographs (or four RAW images) to be recorded at arate of approximately three frames per second. Noise reduction is available to reduce the occurrence of randomly-spaced,brightly-colored pixels at shutter speeds of around 1/2 s or slower. The D100s built-in Speedlight ensures that you will never miss the chancefor that perfect shot, even when lighting is poor. The camera is equipped with an automatic sensitivity adjustment functionthat helps ensure optimal exposure when correct exposure can not beachieved at current settings. Twelve-bit output from the cameras CCD can be saved without modifica-tion as high-quality RAW data. The optional MB-D100 multi function battery pack can expand your cameraspotential with voice-memo recording and a shutter-release button andcommand dials for taking photographs in vertical (portrait) orientation.2
14. 14. To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols andconventions are used: IntroductionOverviewThis icon marks cautions, informa- This icon marks tips, additional in-tion that you should read before use formation you may find helpfulto prevent damage to your camera.when using your camera.This icon marks notes, information This icon indicates that more infor-that you should read before usingmation is available elsewhere in thisyour camera. manual. This icon marks settings that can beThis icon marks settings that can be fine-tuned from the Custom Settingsadjusted using camera menus. menu.Take Test ShotsBefore taking pictures on important occasions (for example, at weddings or beforetaking the camera with you on a trip), take a test shot to ensure that the camera isfunctioning normally. Nikon will not be held liable for damages or lost profits that mayresult from product malfunction.Life-Long LearningAs part of Nikons Life-Long Learning commitment to ongoing product support andeducation, continually-updated information is available on-line at the following sites: For users in the U.S.A.: http://www.nikonusa.com/ For users in Europe: http://www.nikon-euro.com/ For users in Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa: http://www.nikon-asia.com/Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information, tips, answers tofrequently-asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital imaging and photog-raphy. Additional information may be available from the Nikon representative in yourarea. See the URL below for contact information:http://www.nikon-image.com/eng/Replacing This ManualShould you lose this manual, replacements can be ordered, for a fee, from any autho-rized Nikon service representative.3
15. 15. Getting to Know the Camera Camera Controls and DisplaysTake 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 readthrough the rest of the manual.IntroductionGetting to Know the CameraCamera Body567891102113 1412 13 14 1 Eyelet for camera strap ................. 158 Release terminal ......................... 182 2 Shooting-mode dial lock release ... 419 Shutter-release button ...... 3134, 72 3 Shooting mode dial ...................... 41 10 Exposure compensation () button 4 Accessory shoe ........................... 104.................................................... 86 5 Depth-of-field preview button ...... 7611 Flash sync mode () button ..... 98 6 AF-assist illuminator ..................... 72 12 LCD illuminator ( ) button (press to Self-timer lamp ........................... 108 illuminate control panel) ............. 155 Red-eye reduction lamp ................ 97Format ( ) button ................... 23 7 Power switch ................................ 27 13 Control panel ................................. 814 Focal plane mark () ................. 744
16. 16. 15IntroductionGetting to Know the Camera 1716 18 19 20 2115 Built-in Speedlight .................. 94, 98 18 Speedlight lock release ................. 9816 Sub-command dial ....................... 12 19 Connector cover ......... 168, 172, 19117 Function dial ................................ 12 20 Lens release button ...................... 21 See also: 21 Focus-mode selector ..................... 63Exposure mode .......................... 76Sensitivity (ISO equivalency) ....... 48White balance ........................... 50Image quality ............................. 44Image size ................................. 46AF-area mode ............................ 65 The LCD IlluminatorThe control panel backlight (LCD illuminator) will light when the LCD illuminator button( ) is pressed, allowing you to confirm camera settings in the dark. The illuminatorwill remain lit while the camera exposure meters are active or until the shutter is re-leased. 5
17. 17. Getting to Know the CameraCamera Body (continued)30IntroductionGetting to Know the Camera 22 3132 23 243334 2535 26 36 2737 2838 29 3922 Viewfinder eyepiece ..................... 3030 Viewfinder eyepiece cup ............... 3023 Flash exposure compensation 31 AE/AF lock () button .. 70, 84, 154 () button ............................... 102 32 Main command dial ..................... 12 Format ( ) button ................... 23 33 Memory card slot cover ................ 2224 Bracketing () button ................ 88 34 Multi selector ........... 35, 39, 64, 11425 Monitor () button ........... 35, 112 35 Focus area lock switch .................. 6426 MENU () button ............. 39, 122 36 Memory card slot cover latch ........ 2227 Thumbnail ( ) button .............. 116 37 Memory card access lamp ............ 3428 Protect ( ) button ................... 119 38 Delete ( ) button .............. 35, 12029 ENTER () button ............. 40, 125 39 Monitor .................................. 15, 35 Playback zoom ( ) button .......... 1186
18. 18. Camera Controls and Displays IntroductionGetting to Know the Camera42434445 40 4140 Tripod socket43 Diopter adjustment control ........... 3041 Connectors for MB-D100 ........... 180 44 Battery-chamber cover latch ......... 1642 Metering selector ......................... 75 45 Battery-chamber cover ......... 16, 180 7
19. 19. Getting to Know the CameraControl Panel1IntroductionGetting to Know the Camera29310 114 125136147 15 168178
20. 20. Camera Controls and DisplaysIntroductionGetting to Know the Camera 1 Shutter speed ......................... 7980 9 Aperture ...................................... 81 Sensitivity ..................................... 48Bracketing increment ................... 88 Exposure compensation value ....... 86Image transfer mode indicator .... 173 Flash compensation value ........... 102 10 Custom-settings indicator ........... 146 Number of shots in bracketing11 Number of exposures remaining ... 27 sequence ...................................... 88 Number of shots remaining before White balance adjustment ............ 90 memory buffer fills ....................... 41 2 Battery indicator ........................... 17Remote control mode indicator .. 173 3 Image size .................................... 46 12 White balance mode .................... 50 4 Image quality ............................... 44 13 Bracketing indicator ..................... 88 5 Flash compensation indicator ..... 102 14 Clock battery indicator ................. 19 6 Exposure compensation indicator .. 8615 K (appears when memory remains 7 Flexible program indicator ............ 78for over 1,000 exposures) ............. 42 8 Flash sync mode ........................... 96 16 Bracketing progress indicator ....... 8917 Focus area .............................. 6469The Control Panel DisplayThe control panel display tends to darken and exhibit slower response times at hightemperatures. The display will return to normal at room temperature.9
21. 21. Getting to Know the CameraThe Viewfinder DisplayIntroductionGetting to Know the Camera 1 22345 67 8 9 1011 12 13 1415 16 No BatteryWhen the battery is totally exhausted or no battery is inserted, the display in the viewfinderwill dim. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction. The viewfinder displaywill return to normal when a fully-charged battery is inserted. The Viewfinder DisplayThe focus-area and grid-line displays in the viewfinder (advanced focusing screen dis-play) tend to brighten at high temperatures and to darken and exhibit slower responsetimes at low temperatures. The other displays in the viewfinder tend darken and ex-hibit slower response times at high temperatures. All displays will return to normal atroom temperature.10
22. 22. Camera Controls and Displays IntroductionGetting to Know the Camera 1 12-mm (0.47) reference circle for 11 Flash-ready indicator .................... 99 center-weighted metering ............ 75 12 Battery indicator ........................... 17 2 Focus brackets (focus areas) ... 6469 13 Shutter speed ......................... 80, 82 Spot-metering targets .................. 7514 Aperture ................................ 8182 3 Reference grid (displayed when ON is15 Electronic analog exposure display selected for Custom Setting 19) .. 157 .................................................... 83 4 Focus indicator ....................... 31, 70Exposure compensation ................ 86 5 Metering ...................................... 75 16 Number of exposures remaining ... 27 6 Auto-exposure lock ...................... 84Number of shots remaining before 7 Exposure mode ............................ 76 memory buffer fills ....................... 41 Exposure compensation value ....... 86 8 Flash compensation indicator ..... 102 Flash exposure compensation value 9 Exposure compensation indicator .. 86.................................................. 10210 K (appears when memory remains for over 1,000 exposures) ............. 42 Advanced Focusing Screen DisplayWhen the background is bright, the active focus area ( 64) is highlighted in black.When the background is dark, the active focus area is highlighted briefly in red asneeded to establish contrast with the background (Vari-Brite focus areas), making iteasier to identify the selected focus area. The viewfinder is also equipped with on-demand grid lines. When ON is selected for Custom Setting 19 (Grid Display;157), a reference grid is superimposed over the display in the viewfinder. This grid is auseful aid when composing landscape shots or when tilting or shifting a PC Nikkor lens.Owing to the characteristics of this type of viewfinder display, you may notice fine linesradiating outwards from the selected focus area, or that the display in the viewfinderturns red when the selected focus area is highlighted. These phenomena are normaland do not indicate a malfunction. 11
23. 23. Getting to Know the CameraThe Command DialsThe main- and sub-command dials are used alone or in combination withother controls to adjust a variety of settings.IntroductionGetting to Know the CameraFlash syncSub-command Bracketing buttonmode button dialFunction dialExposure compensation buttonFlash exposurecompensationbuttonMain commanddial Image quality and size+ Set image quality (46)+ Choose an image size ( 47) White balance+ Choose a white balance setting ( 52)Fine-tune white balance ( 5354)/mea-+ sure a value for preset white balance (56) Sensitivity (ISO equivalency)+ Set sensitivity (ISO equivalency; 49)12
24. 24. Camera Controls and DisplaysAF-area modeIntroductionGetting to Know the Camera Choose a setting for AF-area mode ( + 65)Exposure Choose a combination of aperture and + shutter speed (exposure mode P78) Choose a shutter speed (exposure mode + S or M; 80) Choose an aperture (exposure mode A or + M; 8182) Set exposure compensation (when func- + tion dial set to P, S, A, or M; 86) Activate or cancel bracketing (when func- + tion dial set to P, S, A, or M;88) Change bracketing settings (when func- + tion dial set to P, S, A, or M; 88)Flash settings Choose a flash sync mode (when func- + tion dial set to P, S, A, or M; 98) Set flash compensation (when function + dial set to P, S, A, or M; 102)13
25. 25. First StepsGetting the Camera Ready for Use Before using your camera for the first time, complete the following steps: STEP 1Attach the Camera Strap15IntroductionFirst Steps STEP 2Insert the Battery 1617 To learn more about batteries and alternative power sources, see: Technical Notes: Optional Accessories ........................ 176183 Caring for the Camera and Battery ............................ ivv STEP 3Choose a Language18 STEP 4Set the Time and Date19 STEP 5Attach a Lens2021 To learn more about the lenses available for the D100, see: Technical Notes: Optional Accessories ........................ 176183 STEP 6Insert a Memory Card 2223 To learn more about compatible memory cards, see: Technical Notes: Approved Memory Cards ................. 183 For more information on formatting memory cards, see: The Setup Menu: Formatting Memory Cards .............. 162 14
26. 26. Step 1Attach the Camera Strap 1Attach the camera strap securely to the two eyelets on the camera body asshown below. IntroductionFirst StepsThe Monitor CoverA clear plastic cover (the BM-2 LCD monitor cover) isprovided with the camera to keep the monitor clean,and to protect the monitor when the camera is not inuse or when you are transporting the camera. To re-move the monitor cover, hold the camera firmly and pullthe bottom of the cover gently outwards as shown atright (1). Once the cover is unlatched, you can move itslightly away from the monitor (2) and then remove it as Do not lift bottom of covershown (3). past point shownTo replace the cover for shooting or storage, insert thetwo projections on the top of the cover into the match-ing indentations above the camera monitor (1), thenpress the bottom of the cover until you hear it click intoplace (2).15
27. 27. 2 First Steps Step 2Insert the Battery Your camera is powered by a single rechargeable Nikon EN-EL3 lithium-ion battery (provided).IntroductionFirst Steps 2.1 Charge the battery The EN-EL3 battery supplied with your camera is not fully charged at shipment. To maximize shooting time, batteries should be fully charged before use. The battery will recharge in about two hours when inserted in the MH-18 quick charger provided with your camera; instructions for use may be found in the documentation provided with the charger. 2.2 Turn the camera off Turn the camera off before inserting or re- moving batteries. 2.3 Open the battery-chamber cover Slide the battery-chamber cover latch to the open position ( ; a) and open the battery- b chamber cover (b).a 2.4 Insert the battery pack Insert a fully charged battery with the con- tacts oriented as shown at right. 2.5 Close the battery-chamber cover To prevent the battery from being dislodged during operation, be sure the cover is se- curely latched. 16
28. 28. 2Getting the Camera Ready for Use2.6 Check the battery levelTurn the camera on and check the battery level in the control panel orviewfinder. IntroductionFirst StepsIcon*Control View-StatusNotes Panel finder Battery fully To save power, aperture and shutter-speed indicators in the control panel and charged all indicators in viewfinder turn off if no operations are performed for six seconds Battery partially (auto meter off). Press shutter-release dischargedbutton halfway to reactivate display. Low battery Ready a fully-charged spare battery. Shutter-release disabled. No pictures canBattery exhausted(Flashes) (Flashes)be taken until battery has been replaced.* No icon displayed when camera powered by optional AC adapter.Removing the BatteryTo remove the battery, turn the camera off, open the battery chamber cover as de-scribed above, and slide the battery out.Camera Off DisplayWhen the camera is off and the main battery is inserted orthe camera is powered by an optional EH-5 AC adapter,the control panel will show only the number of exposuresremaining. If no memory card is inserted,will bedisplayed.7Auto Meter Off (151)The length of the auto meter off delay can be adjusted using Custom Setting 7. 17
29. 29. 3 First Steps Step 3Choose a Language Camera menus and messages can be displayed in your choice of German, English, French, Japanese, and Spanish.IntroductionFirst Steps 3.13.2PLAYBACK MENUDeleteFolder Designate ND100Slide ShowHide ImagePrint SetDisplay Mode Turn camera on Display camera menus 3.3 SET UPFormat3.4SET UPFormatLCD BrightnessO LCD BrightnessOMirror Lock-up OFFMirror Lock-up OFFVideo Output NTSC Video Output NTSCDateDateLanguageEnLanguageEnImage CommentOFFImage CommentOFF Display SET UP menuPosition cursor in SET UP menu 3.5 SET UPFormat3.6SET UPLanguageLCD BrightnessOMirror Lock-up OFFDe DeutschVideo Output NTSC En EnglishOKDateFr FranaisLanguageEn Image CommentOFFEs EspaolHighlight Language Display options 3.7 SET UPLanguage3.8SET UPFormatLCD BrightnessODe DeutschMirror Lock-up OFFEn EnglishVideo Output NTSCFr Franais DateOKLanguageEnEs EspaolImage CommentOFF Highlight option Make selection andreturn to SET UP menu 18
30. 30. 4 Getting the Camera Ready for UseStep 4Set the Time and DateThe time and date of recording is included with all pictures. To ensure thatyour pictures are stamped with the correct time and date, display the setup IntroductionFirst Stepsmenu as described opposite, then set the time and date as described below.4.1SET UPFormat 4.2 SET UPDateLCD BrightnessOSETOKMirror Lock-up OFF Y M DVideo Output NTSC 2002 01 01Date H M SLanguageEn00 15 20Image CommentOFFHighlight DateDisplay Date menu4.3SET UPDate 4.4 SET UPDate SETOK SETOK Y M D Y M D2002 01 012002 05 10 H M S H M S00 15 2011 00 00Edit YearSelect next item. Repeat Steps 4.34.4 to set Month, Day, Hour, Minute,and Second4.5SET UPFormat The camera clock is less accurate than most battery-powered time-LCD BrightnessOMirror Lock-up OFF pieces, and should be regularlyVideo Output NTSCchecked and reset as necessary.DateLanguageEnImage CommentOFF Save changes to settings and returnto SET UP menuThe Clock BatteryThe clock-calendar is powered by an independent, rechargeable power source, which ischarged as necessary when a charged EN-EL3 battery is installed or the camera is pow-ered by an optional EH-5 AC adapter. Three days of charging is sufficient to provideabout five months of back-up power. If theicon in the control panel flashes,the clock battery is exhausted and the clock has been reset to 2002.01.01 00:00:00.Set the clock to the correct date and time as described above.19
31. 31. 5 First Steps Step 5Attach a Lens We recommend that you use a type G or type D CPU lens to take full advan- tage of the features your camera offers.IntroductionFirst StepsCPU lenses have CPU Type G lens Type D lenscontacts 5.1 Turn the camera off Turn the camera off before attaching or re- moving lenses. 5.2 Attach a lens Keeping the mounting mark on the lens aligned with the mounting mark on the cam- era body, position the lens in the cameras bayonet mount. Being careful not to press the lens-release button, rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place. Protect the Camera from Dirt and Dust Any dust, dirt, or other foreign matter inside your cam- era could show up as specks or blotches in your photo- graphs or the viewfinder display. When no lens is in place, keep the lens mount covered with the BF-1A body cap supplied with your camera. When exchanging lens or replacing the body cap, keep the lens mount pointed down. 20
32. 32. 5 Getting the Camera Ready for Use5.3 Lock aperture at the minimum settingThis step is not necessary if you are using a type G lens (type G lensesare not equipped with an aperture ring). If you are using a lens ofIntroductionFirst Stepsanother type, lock aperture at the minimum setting (highest f/-number).If you do not perform this step when using a CPU lens, the aperturedisplays in the control panel and viewfinder will show a blinkingwhen the camera is turned on. Photographs can not be taken until youhave turned the camera off and locked aperture at the highest f/-num-ber.Detaching the LensBe sure the camera is off when removing or exchanginglenses. To remove the lens, press and hold the lens-release button while turning the lens clockwise.Non-CPU LensesNon-CPU lenses can only be used when the function dial is set to M (manual exposuremode). In other exposure modes, the shutter release will be disabled. When a non-CPU lens is attached, the camera exposure meters will not function, and the aperturedisplays in the control panel and viewfinder will showto indicate that aperture canonly be set using the lens aperture ring.For more information on: 176 Lenses for the D100 21
33. 33. 6 First Steps Step 6Insert a Memory Card In place of film, your Nikon digital camera uses CompactFlash memory cards or IBM Microdrive cards to store photographs. For a list of approved memoryIntroductionFirst Steps cards, see Technical Notes: Approved Memory Cards ( 183). 6.1 Turn the camera off Turn the camera off before inserting or re- moving memory cards. 6.2 Open the card slot cover Open the card slot cover as shown at right. 2 1 6.3 Insert a memory card Insert the memory card with the rear label Terminals Rear toward the monitor, sliding the card in untilDirection of label it is fully seated in the contacts at the backinsertion of the slot (1) and the eject button pops up (2). Close the card slot cover. 2 1 Inserting Memory Cards Insert the memory card in the orientation shown above; do not use force. Do not attempt to insert cards in an- other orientation, as this could damage the camera or card. The memory card slot is on a slight angle (see illustra- tion at right). Match the angle of the memory card slot when inserting memory cards. 22
34. 34. 6 Getting the Camera Ready for Use6.4 Format the memory cardMemory cards must be formatted before first use. Note that formattingmemory cards permanently deletes any data they may contain. Be sure IntroductionFirst Stepsto copy any photographs and other data you wish to keep to a com-puter before proceeding ( 169).To format the card, turn the camera on and hold the( and )buttons down simultaneously for approximately two seconds. A blink-ingwill appear in the shutter-speed display and the frame countwill blink. Pressing both buttons together a second time will format thememory card. Press any other button to exit without formatting.During formatting, the letterswill be appear in the frame-countdisplay. Do not remove the card or battery or unplug the AC adapter(available separately) during formatting. When formatting is complete,the frame-count display will show the number of photographs that canbe recorded at current settings.No Memory CardIf no memory card is inserted in the camera when acharged EN-EL3 battery is inserted or the camera is pow-ered by an AC adapter,will appear control panelexposure-count display. When the camera is on andindicators are displayed in the viewfinder, the exposure-count display in the viewfinder will also show.Format ( 162)Memory cards can also be formatted using the Format option in the setup menu.23
35. 35. 6 First Steps Removing Memory Cards Memory cards may be hot after use. Observe due caution when removing memoryIntroductionFirst Steps cards from the camera. Removing Memory Cards Memory cards can be removed without loss of data when the camera is off. Before removing the memory card, 1 wait for the green card access lamp next to the card slot cover to go out and then turn the camera off. Pressing2 the memory card slot cover latch, open the card slot cover and press the eject button to partially eject the card (1). You can then remove the card by hand (2). DoAccess NOT attempt to remove the card while the access lamp is lamp on. Failure to observe this precaution could result in loss of data or in damage to the camera or card. 24
36. 36. Basic Photography Tutorial 2634 Basic Photography and PlaybackBasic Playback 3536This chapter takes you step-by-step through theprocess of taking your first photographs and play-ing them back.Basic PhotographyThis section describes how to use autofocus andauto multi program autoexposure for simple, point-and-shoot photography that will produce optimalresults in most situations.Basic PlaybackRead this section for information on viewing pho-tographs in the monitor.25
37. 37. Basic PhotographyTaking Your First Photographs There are six basic steps to taking photographs: STEP 1Ready the Camera27TutorialBasic Photography To learn more about the battery level display, see: Introduction: First Steps .............................................1617 To learn how to restore settings to their default values, see: Taking Photographs: Two-Button Reset ...................... 110 Menu Guide: The Custom Settings Menu ...................144160 STEP 2Adjust Camera Settings2829 To learn more about the following camera settings, see: Taking Photographs: Choosing a Shooting Mode ....... 4142 Taking Photographs: Image Quality and Size ..............4347 Taking Photographs: Sensitivity (ISO Equivalency) .......4849 Taking Photographs: White Balance ...........................5057 Taking Photographs: Focus .........................................6374 Taking Photographs: Exposure ....................................7593 STEP 3Frame the Photograph30 To learn how to preview the effects of aperture, see: Taking Photographs: Exposure ....................................7593 To learn about optional viewfinder accessories, see: Technical Notes: Optional Accessories ........................180183 STEP 4Focus 31 To learn more about focus options, see: Taking Photographs: Focus .........................................6374 STEP 5Check Exposure32 To learn how to change the composition after setting exposure, see: Taking Photographs: Exposure ....................................7593 To learn more about flash photography, see: Taking Photographs: Flash Photography ..................... 94106 STEP 6Take the Photograph 34 To learn how to delay shutter release, see: Taking Photographs: Self-Timer Mode ........................108109 26
38. 38. Step 1Ready the Camera 1Before taking photographs, ready the camera as described below. TutorialBasic Photography1.1 Turn the camera onThe control panel will turn on and the dis-play in the viewfinder will light.1.2 Check the battery levelIf the low-battery icon () appears in thecontrol panel or flashes in the viewfinder,recharge the battery or replace it with a fully-charged spare battery before proceeding.1.3 Check the number of exposures remainingThe exposure-count displays in the controlpanel and viewfinder show the number ofphotographs that can be taken at currentsettings. When this number reaches zero,the shutter-speed display in the control panelwill show a blinking , the viewfindershutter-speed display, . You will needto delete pictures, insert a new memory card,or adjust image quality and size settings be-fore you will be able to take additional pho-tographs.27