Nikon 25464 D300S User's Manual
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- Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 1
DIGITAL CAMERA User's Manual En - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 2
is displayed in the viewfinder or monitor, find the solution here. i Troubleshooting ➜ 0 373-377 Camera behaving unexpectedly? Find the solution here. A For Your Safety Before using the camera for the first time, read the safety instructions in "For Your Safety" (0 xviii-xx). Help Use the camera - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 3
(0 91, 191) • DK-23 rubber eyecup (0 91, 191) • EG-D2 audio/video • UC-E4 USB cable cable (0 239) (0 224, 229) • AN-DC4 strap • Warranty • User's Manual (this guide) • Quick Guide • Software Installation Guide • Software Suite CD-ROM • Registration card (U. S. A. only) i - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 4
, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC. All other trade names mentioned in this manual or the other documentation provided with your Nikon product are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. ii - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 5
Focus k Release Mode S ISO Sensitivity Z Exposure r White Balance J Image Enhancement l Flash Photography t Other Shooting Options I More About Playback Q Connections U Menu Guide n Technical Notes 0 iv 0 x 0 1 0 17 0 47 0 57 0 67 0 73 0 85 0 95 0 101 0 133 0 153 0 169 0 181 0 203 0 223 0 243 0 339 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 6
Q&A Index Find what you're looking for using this "question and answer" index. ❚❚ New Features Question How do I take high-quality NEF (RAW) photos? Can I use the monitor as a viewfinder? How do I shoot movies? How do I record photographs using two memory cards? Can I control how photos are - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 7
Question How do I set the clock? How do I set the clock for daylight savings time? How do I change time zones when I travel? How do I adjust monitor brightness for menus or playback? How do I change the self-timer delay? How do I turn the speaker off? Can I reverse the exposure indicator? Can I - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 8
Question How do I get more information about the battery? How do I keep the file number from being reset when I insert a new memory card? How do I reset file numbering to 1? How do I clean the camera or lens? Key phrase 0 Battery info 307 File number sequence 277 Cleaning the camera 357 ❚❚ - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 9
exposure level? How can I reduce blur? Can the flash be used at shutter speeds faster than 1/250 s? Key phrase 0 Exposure mode h (manual) 111 Exposure compensation 118 Long time-exposures 114 Exposure and flash 120, bracketing 289 White balance 125, bracketing 289 ADL bracketing 129 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 10
Question How do I get rid of an unwanted photo? Can I delete several photos at once? Can I zoom in on pictures? Can I protect photos from accidental deletion? Can I hide selected photos? How do I tell if parts of my photos may be overexposed? How do I tell where the camera focused? Can I view photos - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 11
❚❚ Viewing or Printing Photographs on Other Devices Question Can I view my photos on TV? Can I view my photos in High Definition? How do I copy photos to my computer? How do I print photographs? Can I print photos without a computer? Can I print the date on my photographs? How do I order - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 12
Table of Contents Q&A Index iv For Your Safety xviii Notices...xxi Introduction 1 Overview...2 Getting to Know the Camera 3 Camera Body 3 The Control Panel 8 The Viewfinder Display 10 The Information Display 12 The BM-8 Monitor Cover 16 Tutorial 17 Camera Menus 18 Using Camera Menus - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 13
68 Image Size 71 Using Two Memory Cards 72 Focus 73 Focus Mode 74 AF-Area Mode 76 Focus Point Selection 78 Focus Lock 80 Manual Focus 83 Release Mode 85 Choosing a Release Mode 86 Continuous Mode 88 Self-Timer Mode 91 Mirror up Mode 93 xi - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 14
Control 98 Exposure 101 Metering 102 Exposure Mode 104 e: Programmed Auto 106 f: Shutter-Priority Auto 108 g: Aperture-Priority Auto 109 h: Manual 111 Long Time-Exposures 114 Autoexposure (AE) Lock 116 Exposure Compensation 118 Bracketing 120 White Balance 133 White Balance Options - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 15
Flash Photography 169 The Built-in Flash 170 Using the Built-in Flash 171 Flash Modes 175 Flash Compensation 177 FV Lock 178 Other Shooting Options 181 Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings 182 Multiple Exposure 184 Interval Timer Photography 189 Non-CPU Lenses 195 Using a GPS - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 16
233 Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set 237 Viewing Photographs on TV 239 Standard Definition Devices 239 High-Definition Devices 241 Menu Guide 243 D The Playback Menu: Managing Images 244 Playback Folder 245 Hide Image 245 Display Mode 247 Copy Image(s 248 Image Review 251 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 17
b: Metering/Exposure 270 b1: ISO Sensitivity Step Value 270 b2: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl 270 b3: Exp Comp/Fine Tune 270 b4: Easy Exposure Compensation 271 b5: Center-Weighted Area 272 b6: Fine Tune Optimal Exposure 272 c: Timers/AE Lock 273 c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L 273 c2: Auto - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 18
f6: Assign Preview Button 296 f7: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button 296 f8: Customize Command Dials 297 f9: Release Button to Use Dial 298 f10: No Memory Card 299 f11: Reverse Indicators 299 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup 300 Format Memory Card 301 LCD Brightness 301 Video Mode 301 HDMI 302 Time - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 19
357 The Low-Pass Filter 358 "Clean Now 358 "Clean at Startup/Shutdown 359 Manual Cleaning 361 Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions 364 Defaults 368 Exposure Program 372 Troubleshooting 373 Error Messages 378 Specifications 385 Approved Memory Cards 393 Memory Card Capacity 394 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 20
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 the battery, take the equipment to a Nikonauthorized service center for inspection. When operating the viewfinder diopter control - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 21
A Do not use in the presence of flammable gas Do not use electronic equipment in the presence of flammable gas, as this could result in explosion or fire. A Keep out of reach of children Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury. A Do not place the strap around the neck of an infant - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 22
Do not damage, modify, or A CD-ROMs CD-ROMs containing software or manuals should not be played back on audio CD equipment. Playing CD-ROMs on an the power cable to subject's eyes could cause a Nikon-authorized service temporary visual impairment. representative for inspection. Particular care - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 23
of the hardware and software described in these manuals at any time and without prior notice. • Nikon will not be held liable for any damages made instructions, may cause harmful to this device that are not expressly interference to radio communications. approved by Nikon Corporation - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 24
completely refill it with images containing no private information (for example, pictures of empty sky). Be sure to also replace any pictures selected for preset manual. Care should be taken to avoid injury when physically destroying data storage devices. xxii - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 25
brand electronic accessories (including battery chargers, batteries, AC adapters, and flash accessories) certified by Nikon specifically for use with this Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within the operational and safety requirements of this electronic circuitry. The use - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 26
sites: • For users in the U.S.A.: http://www.nikonusa.com/ • For users in Europe and Africa: http://www.europe-nikon.com/support/ • For users in Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East: http://www.nikon-asia.com/ Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information, tips, answers to - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 27
XIntroduction This chapter covers information you will need to know before X using the camera, including the names of camera parts. Overview 2 Getting to Know the Camera 3 Camera Body 3 The Control Panel 8 The Viewfinder Display 10 The Information Display 12 The BM-8 Monitor Cover 16 1 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 28
DAMAGE YOUR CAMERA AND MAY VOID YOUR NIKON WARRANTY. D Servicing the Camera and Accessories The camera is a precision device and requires regular servicing. Nikon recommends that the camera be inspected by the original retailer or a Nikon-authorized service representative once every one to two years - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 29
and displays. You may find it helpful to bookmark this section and refer to it as you read through the rest of the manual. Camera Body X 1 9 10 2 11 3 4 12 13 5 6 14 7 15 8 1 Release mode dial 87 8 BS-1 accessory shoe cover .........347 2 Release mode dial 9 Power switch 37 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 30
Camera Body (Continued) 1 2 3 4 X 5 7 8 6 9 10 A/V OUT 11 MIC 12 15 13 16 14 17 18 1 Built-in flash 171 10 A/V connector 239 2 Flash pop-up button 171 11 HDMI mini-pin connector ..........241 3 M (flash mode) button 171 12 Connector for external Y (flash compensation) - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 31
8 9 1 10 2 X 3 4 5 11 6 7 12 1 AF-assist illuminator 268 6 Battery-chamber cover latch....... 24 Self-timer lamp 92 7 Contact cover for optional MB-D10 Red-eye reduction lamp 175 battery pack 352 2 Sub-command dial 297 8 CPU contacts 3 Depth-of-field preview 9 Mounting index - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 32
Camera Body (Continued) X 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2 1 Viewfinder eyepiece 36 7 L (protect) button 219 2 DK-23 rubber eyecup 91, 191 ? (help) button 21 3 O (delete) button 46, 220 8 W (thumbnail/playback Q (format) button 34 zoom out) button 216 4 K (playback) button 45, 204 9 X (playback zoom - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 33
12 14 3 4 X 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 1 Diopter adjustment control......... 36 8 Memory card slot cover 31 2 Metering selector 103 9 Focus selector lock 78 3 A (AE/AF lock) 10 Memory card access lamp .....33, 44 button 80, 81, 296 11 AF-area mode selector 76 4 B (AF-ON) button ....... 50, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 34
The Control Panel 1 2 15 3 14 4 5 13 X 6 12 11 7 8 10 9 1 Color temperature indicator ......... 141 2 Shutter speed 108, 112 Exposure compensation value..... 118 Flash compensation value 177 ISO sensitivity 96 White balance fine-tuning 140 Color temperature 141 White balance - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 35
Capture mode indicator 224 19 CompactFlash (CF) card Preset white balance indicator 32 recording indicator 144 20 Secure Digital (SD) card Manual lens number 197 indicator 32 27 ISO sensitivity indicator 96 21 "Clock not set" indicator ..........30, 378 Auto ISO sensitivity indicator - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 36
The Viewfinder Display 1 2 X 3 4 56 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 17 10 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 37
1 Framing grid (displayed 14 Number of exposures when On is selected for Custom remaining 38 Setting d2 275 Number of shots remaining before 2 Focus points 78, 267 memory buffer fills 43, 89 3 AF area brackets 36, 52 White balance recording 4 Battery indicator 37, 275 indicator 144 ( - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 38
The Information Display Shooting information, including shutter speed, aperture, the number of exposures remaining, buffer capacity, and AF-area mode, is displayed in the monitor when the R button is pressed. X R button A Turning the Monitor Off To clear shooting information from the monitor, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 39
indicator 281 exposures 38 4 Shutter speed 108, 111 12 Number of exposures Exposure compensation value..... 118 remaining 38 Flash compensation value 177 Manual lens number 197 Number of shots in exposure, flash, 13 Fn button assignment 292 or white balance bracketing 14 AE-L/AF-L button - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 40
The Information Display (Continued) 22 23 24 25 43 26 42 41 27 28 40 39 29 30 X 38 37 31 36 35 34 33 32 22 Exposure compensation display 118 23 Flash compensation indicator 177 24 Interval timer indicator 192 25 Eye-Fi connection indicator .......... 313 26 GPS connection indicator - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 41
❚❚ Changing Settings in the Information Display To change settings for the items listed below, press the R button in the information display. Highlight items using the multi selector and press J to view options for the highlighted item. R button X 3 2 4 1 5 10 9 8 7 6 1 Shooting menu bank - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 42
The BM-8 Monitor Cover A clear plastic cover is provided with the camera to keep the monitor clean and protect it when the camera is not in use. To attach the cover, insert the projection on the top of the cover into the matching indentation above the camera monitor (q) and press the bottom of the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 43
sTutorial This section describes how to use the camera menus, how to ready the camera for use, and how to take your first pictures and play s them back. Camera Menus 18 Using Camera Menus 19 Help ...21 First Steps 22 Charge the Battery 22 Insert the Battery 24 Attach a Lens 26 Basic Setup 28 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 44
Camera Menus Most shooting, playback, and setup options G button can be accessed from the camera menus. To view the menus, press the G button. s Tabs Choose from the following menus: • D: Playback (0 244) • C: Shooting (0 253) • A: Custom Settings (0 260) • B: Setup (0 300) • N: Retouch (0 315) • - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 45
Using Camera Menus ❚❚ Menu Controls The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the menus. Multi selector Move cursor up Select highlighted item Cancel and return to previous menu Select highlighted item or display sub-menu Move cursor down s J button Select highlighted item ❚❚ - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 46
3 Select a menu. Press 1 or 3 to select the desired menu. s 4 Position the cursor in the selected menu. Press 2 to position the cursor in the selected menu. 5 Highlight a menu item. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a menu item. 6 Display options. Press 2 to display options for the selected menu item. 7 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 47
8 Select the highlighted item. Press J to select the highlighted item. To exit without making a selection, press the G button. J button s Note the following points: • Menu items that are displayed in gray are not currently available. • While pressing 2 or the center of the multi selector generally - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 48
First Steps Charge the Battery The D300S is powered by an EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied). To maximize shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-18a quick charger before use. About two and a quarter hours are required to fully recharge the battery when no s charge remains. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 49
3 Insert the battery. Insert the battery into the charger. The CHARGE lamp will blink while the battery charges. s Battery Charging charging complete 4 Remove the battery when charging is complete. Charging is complete when the CHARGE lamp stops blinking. Remove the battery and unplug the charger. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 50
Insert the Battery 1 Turn the camera off. Power switch s D Inserting and Removing Batteries Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing batteries. 2 Open the battery-chamber cover. Unlatch (q) and open (w) the batterychamber cover. 3 Insert the battery. Insert the battery as shown - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 51
D The Battery and Charger Read and follow the warnings and cautions on pages xviii-xx and 364-367 of this manual. To prevent short-circuits, replace the terminal cover when the battery is not in use. Do not use the battery at ambient temperatures below 0°C (32°F) - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 52
from entering the camera when the lens is removed. An AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED lens is used in this manual for illustrative purposes. Focal length scale Mounting index Focal length index Focus mode switch (0 27, 83) Lens cap s CPU contacts (0 340) Zoom ring Rear lens - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 53
the lens counterclockwise until it clicks into place (w). If the lens is equipped with an A-M or M/A-M switch, select A (autofocus) or M/ A (autofocus with manual priority). ❚❚ Detaching the Lens Be sure the camera is off when removing or exchanging lenses. To remove the lens, press and hold the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 54
Basic Setup The language option in the setup menu is automatically highlighted the first time menus are displayed. Choose a language and set the time and date. Note that if the time and date are not set, B will blink in the monitor and the time and date recorded with photographs will be incorrect. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 55
4 Select Time zone and date. Select Time zone and date and press 2. 5 Set time zone. Select Time zone and press 2. Press 4 or 2 to highlight the s local time zone (the UTC field shows the difference between the selected time zone and Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC, in hours) and press J. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 56
8 Set date format. Select Date format and press 2. Press 1 or 3 to choose the order in which the year, month, and day will be displayed and press J. s 9 Exit to shooting mode. Press the shutter-release button halfway to exit to shooting mode. A The Clock Battery The camera clock is powered by an - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 57
Insert a Memory Card The camera has two memory card slots, one for Type I CompactFlash memory cards (Type II cards and microdrives can not be used) and another for Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (memory cards are available separately; 0 393). The following section describes how to insert and - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 58
SD memory cards: Holding the card as shown, slide it into the SD card slot until it clicks into place. The green access lamp will light briefly. 2GB SD card slot Access lamp s D Inserting Memory Cards Inserting memory cards upside down or backwards could damage the camera or the card. Check to - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 59
❚❚ Removing Memory Cards 1 Turn the camera off. Confirm that the access lamp is off and turn the camera off. 2 Remove the memory card. Access lamp s 4GB CompactFlash memory cards: Open the memory card slot cover and press the eject button (q) to partially eject the card (w). The memory card can - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 60
Format the Memory Card Memory cards must be formatted before first use or after being used or formatted in other devices. D 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 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 61
When formatting is complete, the control panel and viewfinder will show the number of photographs that can be recorded at current settings. D 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 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 62
Adjust Viewfinder Focus The camera is equipped with diopter adjustment to accommodate individual differences in vision. Check that the display in the viewfinder is in focus before shooting. 1 Turn the camera on. Power switch Remove the lens cap and turn s the camera on. 2 Focus the viewfinder. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 63
Basic Photography and Playback Turn the Camera On Before taking photographs, turn the camera on and check the battery level and number of exposures remaining as described below. 1 Turn the camera on. Power switch s Turn the camera on. The control panel will turn on and the display in the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 64
3 Check the number of exposures remaining. The exposure-count displays in the control panel and viewfinder show the number of photographs that can be taken at current settings (if two memory cards are inserted, the displays show the space available on s the card in the primary slot; 0 72). - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 65
A LCD Illuminators Rotating the power switch toward D Power switch activates the exposure meters and the control panel backlight (LCD illuminator), allowing the display to be read in the dark. After the power switch is released, the illuminators will remain lit for six seconds while the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 66
Adjust Camera Settings This tutorial describes the basic steps involved in taking photos. 1 Choose exposure mode e. I button Press the I button and rotate the main command dial to select exposure mode e. The camera will automatically adjust shutter speed and aperture for s optimal exposure - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 67
4 Choose single-servo autofocus. Focus-mode selector Rotate the focus-mode selector until it clicks into place pointing to S (single-servo autofocus). At this setting, the camera will automatically focus on the subject in the selected focus point when the shutter- s release button is - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 68
the handgrip in your right hand and cradle the camera body or lens with your left. Keep your elbows propped lightly against your torso for support and place one foot half a pace ahead of the other to keep you upper body stable. s Hold the camera as shown at right when framing - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 69
Focus and Shoot 1 Press the shutter- release button halfway to focus (0 44). Focus point At default settings, the camera will focus on the subject in the center s focus point. Frame a photo in the viewfinder with the main subject Focus indicator Buffer capacity positioned in the center - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 70
2 Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to shoot. Smoothly press the shutter- release-button the rest of the way down to take the picture. Access lamp While the photograph is being s recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the card slot cover will light. Do not - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 71
Viewing Photographs 1 Press the K button. K button A photograph will be displayed in the monitor. The memory card containing the picture currently displayed is shown by an icon. 2 View additional pictures. Additional pictures can be displayed by pressing 4 or 2. To view additional information on the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 72
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. 1 Display the photograph. Display the photograph you wish to s delete as described in "Viewing Photographs" on the previous page - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 73
xFraming Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) This chapter describes how to frame pictures in the monitor using live view. x Framing Photographs in the Monitor 48 47 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 74
Framing Photographs in the Monitor Press the a button to frame pictures in the monitor. The following options are available: • Tripod (h): Choose when the camera is mounted on a tripod (0 49). You can zoom in on the image displayed in the monitor for precise focus, making this option suitable for - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 75
Tripod Mode (h) 1 Frame a picture in the viewfinder. With the camera mounted on a tripod or resting on a stable, level surface, frame the subject in the viewfinder. 2 Choose Tripod for Live view mode. G button To display the menus, press the G button. x Highlight Tripod in the Live view mode - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 76
-servo autofocus mode. In both singleservo and continuous-servo autofocus modes, the shutter can be released even when the camera is not in focus. Manual focus (focus mode M; 0 83): Use zoom for precise focus. To magnify the view in the X button monitor up to 13 × and check focus, press - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 77
5 Take the picture. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to take the picture. The monitor turns off during shooting. 6 End live view. Press the a button to end live view. x D Focusing with Contrast-Detect Autofocus Contrast-detect autofocus will take longer than normal ( - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 78
Hand-Held Mode (g) 1 Choose Hand-held for Live view mode. G button To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight Hand-held in the Live view mode menu and press J. x 2 Press the a button. A The mirror will be raised and the view through the lens will be displayed in the camera monitor - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 79
will click back into place while either button is pressed, temporarily interrupting live view. Live view is restored when the button is released. Manual focus (focus mode M; 0 83): Focus using the lens x focusing ring. 5 Take the picture. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 80
D No Picture After shooting, play the picture back in the monitor to ensure that the photograph has been recorded. In hand held mode, note that the sound the mirror makes when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway or the B button is pressed can be mistaken for the sound of the shutter, and - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 81
in live view mode, press the R button. Information on NORM AUTO A [120m 00s] Information off NORM AUTO A [120m 00s] x Virtual horizon Framing guides (not displayed during zoom) (not displayed during zoom) A AF area brackets AF area brackets are displayed only in hand held mode. Hand - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 82
A Monitor Brightness Monitor brightness can be adjusted by A pressing the K and 2 button. The brightness indicator at the right of the display will turn yellow; keeping the K button pressed, press 1 or 3 to adjust brightness (note that monitor brightness has no effect on pictures taken in - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 83
yRecording and Viewing Movies This chapter describes how to record movies in live view. y Recording Movies 58 Viewing Movies 63 Editing Movies 64 57 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 84
Recording Movies Movies can be recorded at 24 fps in live view mode. Before recording, choose a Picture Control (0 154) and color space (0 166). 1 Choose a live view mode. G button To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight an option in the Live view mode menu and press J: • Tripod: - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 85
sounds made during contrast-detect autofocus may be picked up by the microphone). Autofocus is not available in hand-held mode after recording begins; use manual focus to focus during recording (0 83; note that in hand-held mode, recording will end if the shutter-release button is pressed halfway or - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 86
5 End recording. Press the center of the multi selector again to end recording (to end recording and take a still picture in live view, press the shutter-release button all the way down). Recording will end automatically when the maximum size is reached or the memory card is full. A Maximum Size - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 87
D Recording Movies Banding or distortion may be visible in the monitor and in the final movie under fluorescent, mercury vapor, or sodium lamps or if the camera is panned horizontally or an object moves at high speed through frame. Bright light sources may leave after-images when the camera is - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 88
❚❚ Movie Settings Adjust movie settings before recording. 1 Select Movie settings. G button Press the G button to display the menus. Highlight Movie settings in the shooting menu and press 2. 2 Choose movie options. y To choose a frame size, highlight Quality and press 2. Highlight one of the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 89
the center of the multi selector to start playback. 1 icon Length Current position/total length Volume The following operations can be performed: Guide y To Pause Use Description 3/J Pause playback. Play Resume playback when movie is paused or during rewind/advance. While playback is in - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 90
Editing Movies Trim unwanted footage to create edited copies of movies. 1 Display retouch options. Display a movie in full-frame playback and press J to display retouch options. 2 Select Edit movie. y Highlight Edit movie and press 2. 3 Choose an option. To trim the opening footage from the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 91
5 Save the copy. Select Yes and press J to save the edited copy. If necessary, the copy can be trimmed as described above to remove additional footage. Edited copies are indicated by a 9 icon in full-frame playback. D Editing Movies Movies must be at least two seconds long. The current position - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 92
y 66 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 93
dImage Recording Options This section describes how to choose image quality and size. Image Quality 68 Image Size 71 Using Two Memory Cards 72 d 67 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 94
memory card in Nikon Electronic NEF (RAW) NEF Format (NEF). Use with images that will be transferred to a computer for printing or processing. Record uncompressed TIFF-RGB images at a bit d TIFF (RGB) TIFF depth of 8 bits per channel (24-bit color). TIFF is (RGB) supported by a wide variety - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 95
Image quality is set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel. QUAL button Main command dial Control panel d A NEF (RAW) Once transferred to a computer, NEF (RAW) images can only be viewed using ViewNX (available on - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 96
The following options can be G button accessed from the shooting menu. Press the G button to display the menus, highlight the desired option and press 2. ❚❚ JPEG Compression Choose the type of compression for JPEG images. Option Description O Size priority Images are compressed to produce - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 97
Image Size Image size is measured in pixels. Choose from the following options: Option L M S Size (pixels) 4,288 × 2,848 3,216 × 2,136 2,144 × 1,424 Size when printed at 300 dpi (approx.) * 36.3 × 24.1 cm (14.3 × 9.5 in.) 27.2 × 18.1 cm (10.7 × 7.1 in.) 18.2 × 12.1 cm (7.1 × 4.7 in.) * Print - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 98
Using Two Memory Cards When two memory cards are inserted in the camera, you can choose one as the primary card using the Primary slot selection item in the shooting menu. Select CF card slot to designate the card in the CompactFlash card slot as the primary card, SD card slot to choose the SD - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 99
NFocus - Controlling How the Camera Focuses This section describes the options that control how your camera focuses. Focus Mode 74 AF-Area Mode 76 Focus Point Selection 78 N Focus Lock 80 Manual Focus 83 73 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 100
, shutter can be released whether or not subject is in focus (release priority). Camera does not focus automatically; focus must be M Manual (0 83) adjusted manually using the lens focusing ring. If maximum aperture of lens is f/5.6 or faster, viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 101
A The B Button For the purpose of focusing the camera, pressing the B button has the same effect as pressing the shutter-release button halfway; note, however, that vibration reduction (available with VR lenses) can only be engaged by pressing the shutter-release button halfway. B button A - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 102
is selected for Custom Setting a3, focus point will be selected automatically using 3D-tracking. • In single-servo AF, user selects focus point manually; camera focuses on subject in selected focus point only. Camera automatically detects subject and selects focus point. If type G or D lens is - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 103
active focus point is displayed in the viewfinder. Remaining focus points provide information to assist focus operation. A Manual Focus Single-point AF is automatically selected when manual focus is used. A See Also For information on the settings available in dynamic-area AF, see Custom Setting - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 104
Selection The D300S offers a choice of 51 focus points that together cover a wide area of the frame. The focus point can be selected manually, allowing photographs to be composed with the main subject AF-area mode selector positioned almost anywhere in the frame (single-point and dynamicarea AF - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 105
A See Also For information on choosing when the focus point is illuminated, see Custom Setting a6 (AF point illumination, 0 266). For information on setting focus-point selection to "wrap around," see Custom Setting a7 (Focus point wrap-around, 0 267). For information on choosing the number of focus - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 106
Focus Lock Focus lock can be used to change the composition after focusing, making it possible to focus on a subject that will not be in a focus point in the final composition. It can also be used when the autofocus system is unable to focus (0 82). 1 Focus. Position the subject in the selected - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 107
Continuous-servo AF Press the AE-L/AF-L button to lock both focus and exposure (an AE-L icon appears in the viewfinder, see page 116). Focus and exposure will remain locked while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed, even if you later remove your finger from the shutter-release button. Shutter-release - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 108
displayed and the camera may sound a beep, allowing the shutter to be released even when the subject is not in focus. In these cases, use manual focus (0 83) or use focus lock (0 80) to focus on another subject at the same distance and then recompose the photograph. There is little or - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 109
Manual Focus Manual focus is available for lenses that do not support autofocus (non-AF NIKKOR lenses) or when the autofocus does not produce the desired results (0 82). • AF-S lenses: Set the lens focus mode switch to M. • - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 110
The Electronic Rangefinder If the lens has a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, the viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm whether the subject in the selected focus point is in focus (the focus point can be selected from any of the 51 focus points). After positioning the subject in the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 111
kRelease Mode - Single Frame, Continuous, Quiet Shutter-Release, Self-Timer, or Mirror Up Release mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time (with or without reduced camera noise), in a continuous sequence, with a timed shutter-release delay, or with the mirror raised to enhance - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 112
Choosing a Release Mode The camera supports the following release modes: Mode Description S Camera remaining in memory buffer. 2 Average frame rate with an EN-EL3e battery, continuous-servo AF, manual or shutter-priority auto exposure, a shutter speed of 1/250 s or faster, other settings at - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 113
To choose a release mode, press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to the desired setting. Release mode dial lock release Release mode dial k 87 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 114
Continuous Mode To take pictures in CH (continuous high speed) and CL (continuous low speed) modes: 1 Select CH or CL mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to CH or CL. Release mode dial 2 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. k While the shutter-release - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 115
pack with AA-size batteries 3 Frame advance rate (approx.) 1 7 fps 7.6 fps 2 7 fps 8 fps 2 7.7 fps 2 1 Average frame rate with continuous-servo AF, manual or shutter-priority auto exposure, a shutter speed of 1/250 s or faster, other settings at default values, and memory remaining in memory - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 116
A 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 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 117
Self-Timer Mode The self-timer can be used to reduce camera shake or for selfportraits. To use the self-timer, mount the camera on a tripod (recommended) or place the camera on a stable, level surface and follow the steps below: 1 Select self-timer mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 118
3 Start the timer. Press the shutter-release button all the way down to start the timer. The self-timer lamp (AF-assist illuminator) will start to blink and a beep will begin to sound. Two seconds before the photograph is taken, the self-timer lamp will stop blinking and the beeping will become more - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 119
Mirror up Mode Choose this mode to minimize blurring caused by camera movement when the mirror is raised. Use of a tripod is recommended. 1 Select mirror up mode. Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to MUP. Release mode dial 2 Raise the mirror. Frame the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 120
k 94 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 121
ISO sensitivity, the less light needed to make an exposure, allowing higher shutter speeds or smaller apertures. This chapter describes how to set ISO sensitivity manually and automatically. Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually 96 Auto ISO Sensitivity Control 98 S 95 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 122
Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually ISO sensitivity can be set to values between ISO 200 and ISO 3200 in steps equivalent to 1/3 EV. Settings of from about 0.3 to 1 EV below - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 123
A The ISO Sensitivity Menu ISO sensitivity can also be adjusted using the ISO sensitivity option in the shooting menu (0 253). A ISO Sensitivity Settings The settings available depend on the option selected for Custom Setting b1 (ISO sensitivity step value, 0 270). Custom Setting b1 (ISO - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 124
Auto ISO Sensitivity Control If On is selected for ISO sensitivity settings > ISO sensitivity auto control in the shooting menu, ISO sensitivity will automatically be adjusted if optimal exposure can not be achieved at the value selected by the user (ISO sensitivity is adjusted appropriately when - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 125
adjusted if underexposure would result at the shutter speed selected for Minimum shutter speed (1/4000-1 s). Slower shutter speeds may be used if optimum exposure can not be achieved at the ISO sensitivity value selected for Maximum sensitivity. Press J to exit when settings are complete. When On is - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 126
S 100 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 127
mode, exposure lock, exposure compensation, and bracketing. Metering 102 Exposure Mode 104 e: Programmed Auto 106 f: Shutter-Priority Auto 108 g: Aperture-Priority Auto 109 h: Manual 111 Long Time-Exposures 114 Z Autoexposure (AE) Lock 116 Exposure Compensation 118 Bracketing 120 101 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 128
Metering Metering determines how the camera sets exposure. The following options are available: Method Description a 3D color matrix II Recommended in most situations. Camera meters a wide area of the frame and sets exposure according to distribution of brightness, color, distance, and - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 129
To choose a metering method, rotate the metering selector until the desired mode is displayed. Metering selector A Matrix Metering Z The metering method used is determined by the type of lens attached: • Type G and D lenses: Range information is included when determining exposure (3D color - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 130
). Type G lenses are not equipped with an aperture ring. Non-CPU lenses can only be used in exposure mode g (aperture-priority auto) and h (manual). In other modes, exposure mode g is automatically selected when a non-CPU lens is attached (0 342). The exposure mode indicator (e or f ) in the control - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 131
in the viewfinder. Preview button A Custom Setting e4-Modeling Flash Z This setting controls whether the built-in flash and optional flash units that support the Creative Lighting System (CLS; see page 348) will emit a modeling flash when the depth-of-field preview button is pressed. See page - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 132
e: Programmed Auto In this mode, the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture according to a built-in program to ensure optimal exposure in most situations. This mode is recommended for snapshots and other situations in which you want to leave the camera in charge of shutter speed and - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 133
A Flexible Program In exposure mode e, different combinations of shutter speed and aperture can be selected by rotating the main command dial while the exposure meters are on ("flexible program"). Rotate the command dial to the right for large apertures (small f-numbers) that blur background details - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 134
f: Shutter-Priority Auto In shutter-priority auto, you choose the shutter speed while the camera automatically selects the aperture that will produce the optimal exposure. To take photographs in shutter-priority auto: 1 Select exposure mode f. I button Press the I button and rotate the main - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 135
g: Aperture-Priority Auto In aperture-priority auto, you choose the aperture while the camera automatically selects the shutter speed that will produce the optimal exposure. To take photographs in aperture-priority auto: 1 Select exposure mode g. I button Press the I button and rotate the main - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 136
3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Z A Non-CPU Lenses (0 342) Use the lens aperture ring to adjust aperture. If the maximum aperture of the lens has been specified using the Non-CPU lens data item in setup menu (0 196) when a non-CPU lens is attached, the current f-number will be displayed in - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 137
h: Manual In manual exposure mode, you control both shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in manual exposure mode: 1 Select exposure mode h. I button Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until h is displayed in the viewfinder and control panel. Main command dial Z 111 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 138
2 Choose aperture and shutter speed. While the exposure meters are on, rotate the main command dial to choose a shutter speed, and the sub-command dial to set aperture. Shutter speed can be set "p" or to values between 30 s and 1/8,000 s, or the shutter can be held open indefinitely for a long time- - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 139
A Exposure Indicators The exposure indicators in the control panel and viewfinder show whether the photograph would be under- or over-exposed at current settings (if Lo or Hi is displayed in f or g modes, the indicators show the amount of under- or over-exposure). Depending on the option chosen for - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 140
choose On for Custom Setting d10 (Exposure delay mode, 0 278) to prevent blur when the camera shutter-release button is pressed. A Long Time-Exposures Nikon recommends using a fully-charged EN-EL3e battery or an optional EH-5a or EH-5 AC adapter to prevent loss of power while the shutter is - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 141
3 Choose a shutter speed. While the exposure meters are active, rotate the main command dial until "A" appears in the shutter-speed displays. The exposure indicators do not appear when "A" is selected. 4 Press the shutter-release button all the way down. Press the shutter-release button on the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 142
-release button pressed halfway and the subject positioned in the focus point, press the AE-L/AF-L button to lock exposure (and focus, except in manual focus mode). Confirm that the in-focus indicator (I) appears in the viewfinder. AE-L/AF-L button While exposure lock is in effect, an AE - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 143
3 Recompose the photograph. Keeping the AE-L/AF-L button pressed, recompose the photograph and shoot. A Metered Area In spot metering, exposure will be locked at the value metered in a 3-mm (0.12 in.) circle centered on the selected focus point. In centerweighted metering, exposure will be locked - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 144
Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker. In exposure mode h, only the exposure information shown in the exposure indicator is affected; shutter speed and aperture do not change. To choose a value - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 145
Exposure compensation can be set to values between -5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure) in increments of 1/3 EV. In general, choose positive values to make the subject brighter, negative values to make it darker. -1 EV No exposure compensation +1 EV At values other than ±0.0, the 0 at - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 146
Bracketing Bracketing automatically varies exposure, flash level, Active D-Lighting (ADL), or white balance slightly with each shot, "bracketing" the current value. Choose in situations in which it is difficult to set exposure, Active D-Lighting, or white balance and there is not time to check - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 147
2 Choose the number of shots. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the main command dial to choose the number of shots in the bracketing sequence. The number of shots is shown in the control panel. Number of shots Fn button Main command dial At settings other than zero, a M icon and exposure and flash - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 148
3 Select an exposure increment. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the exposure increment. Exposure increment Fn button Sub-command dial Control panel At default settings, the size of the increment can be chosen from 1/3, 2/3, and 1 EV. The bracketing programs with an - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 149
4 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. The camera will vary exposure and/or flash level shot-by-shot according to the bracketing program selected. Modifications to exposure are added to those made with exposure compensation (see page 118), making it possible to achieve exposure compensation values - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 150
are exceeded. Custom Setting e6 (Auto bracketing (mode M), 0 290) can be used to change how the camera performs exposure and flash bracketing in manual exposure mode. Bracketing can be performed by varying flash level together with shutter speed and/or aperture, or by varying flash level alone. 124 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 151
❚❚ White Balance Bracketing The camera creates multiple copies of each photograph, each with a different white balance. For more information on white balance, see page 133. 1 Select white balance bracketing. Choose WB bracketing for Custom Setting e5 Auto bracketing set. 2 Choose the number of - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 152
3 Select a white balance increment. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the white balance adjustment. Each increment is roughly equivalent to 5 mired. White balance increment Fn button Sub-command Control panel dial Choose from increments of 1 (5 mired), 2 (10 mired), or - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 153
4 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Each shot will be processed to create the number of copies specified in the bracketing program, and each copy will have a different white balance. Modifications to white balance are added to the white balance adjustment made with white balance fine-tuning. If - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 154
❚❚ Canceling Bracketing To cancel bracketing, press the Fn button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequence is zero (r) and W is no longer displayed in the control panel. The program last in effect will be restored the next time bracketing is activated. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 155
❚❚ ADL Bracketing The camera varies Active D-Lighting over a series of exposures. For more information on Active D-Lighting, see page 164. 1 Select ADL bracketing. Choose ADL bracketing for Custom Setting e5 Auto bracketing set. 2 Choose the number of shots. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the main - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 156
3 Select Active D-Lighting. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose Active D-Lighting. Fn button Sub-command dial Active D-Lighting is shown in the control panel. Control panel display Active D-Lighting Y Auto Z R Low Q Normal P High Z Extra high 130 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 157
4 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. The camera will vary Active D-Lighting shot-by-shot according to the bracketing program selected. While bracketing is in effect, a bracketing progress indicator will be displayed in the control panel. A segment will disappear from the indicator after each shot - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 158
❚❚ Canceling Bracketing To cancel bracketing, press the Fn button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequence is zero. The program last in effect will be restored the next time bracketing is activated. Bracketing can also be cancelled by performing a two- - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 159
is known as "white balance." This chapter covers white balance settings. White Balance Options 134 Fine-Tuning White Balance 137 Choosing a Color Temperature 141 Preset Manual 142 r 133 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 160
subjects in the shade. K Choose color temp. 2,500- Choose color temperature from list of 10,000 K values (0 141). Use subject, light source, or existing L Preset manual - photograph as reference for white balance (0 142). * All values are approximate. Fine-tuning set to 0. 134 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 161
Auto white balance is recommended with most light sources. If the desired results can not be achieved with auto white balance, choose an option from the list above or use preset white balance. White balance can be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the main command dial until the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 162
A Color Temperature The perceived color of a light source varies with the viewer and other conditions. Color temperature is an objective measure of the color of a light source, defined with reference to the temperature to which an object would have to be heated to radiate light in the same - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 163
in the shooting menu, then highlight a white balance option and press 2. If an option other than Fluorescent, Choose color temp., or Preset manual is selected, proceed to Step 2. If Fluorescent is selected, highlight a lighting type and press 2. If Choose color temp. is selected, highlight - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 164
2 Fine tune white balance. Use the multi selector to fine- tune white balance. White balance can be fine tuned on the amber (A)-blue (B) axis and the green (G)-magenta (M) axis. The horizontal (amber- Coordinates Adjustment blue) axis corresponds to color temperature, with each increment - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 165
A White Balance Fine Tuning The colors on the fine-tuning axes are relative, not absolute. For example, moving the cursor to B (blue) when a "warm" setting such as J (incandescent) is selected for white balance will make photographs slightly "colder" but will not actually make them blue. A Color - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 166
❚❚ The WB Button At settings other than K (Choose color temp.) and L (Preset manual), the WB button can be used to fine-tune white balance on the amber (A)-blue (B) axis (0 138; to fine-tune white balance when K or L is - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 167
Choosing a Color Temperature When K (Choose color temp.) is selected for white balance, color temperature can be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. The color temperature is displayed in the control panel: WB button Sub-command dial Control panel r D Choose - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 168
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. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 169
The camera can store up to five values for preset white balance in presets d-0 through d-4. A descriptive comment can be added to any white balance preset (0 152). d-0 Stores last value measured for white balance (0 144). This preset is overwritten when a new value is measured. d-1-d-4 Store values - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 170
1 EV when measuring white balance; in exposure mode h, adjust exposure so that the exposure indicator shows ±0 (0 113). 2 Set white balance to L (Preset manual). Press the WB button and rotate the main command dial until L is displayed in the control panel. WB button Main command dial 3 r Select - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 171
4 Measure white balance. Before the indicators stop flashing, frame the reference object so that it fills the viewfinder and press the shutter-release button all the way down. The camera will measure a value for white balance and store it in preset d-0. No photograph will be recorded; white balance - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 172
6 Select preset d-0. If the new value for preset white balance will be used immediately, select preset d-0 by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial until d-0 is displayed in the control panel. D Direct Measurement Mode If no operations are performed while the displays are flashing - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 173
value for white balance from d-0 to any of the other presets (d-1-d-4). 1 Select L (Preset manual). G button Press the G button and select White balance in the shooting menu. Highlight Preset manual and press 2. 2 Select a destination. Highlight the destination preset (d-1 to d-4) and press the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 174
photograph to a selected preset (d-1-d-4 only). Existing white balance values can not be copied to preset d-0. 1 Select L (Preset manual). Highlight Preset manual in the white balance menu and press 2. 2 Select a destination. Highlight the destination preset (d-1 to d-4) and press the center - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 175
4 Highlight a source image. Highlight the source image. To view the highlighted image full frame, press and hold the X button. X button To view images in other locations, press W and select the desired card and folder (0 217). W button 5 Copy white balance. Press the center of the multi - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 176
❚❚ Selecting a White Balance Preset To set white balance to a preset value: 1 Select L (Preset manual). Highlight Preset manual in the white balance menu and press 2. 2 Select a preset. Highlight the desired preset and press the center of the multi selector. To select the highlighted - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 177
A Selecting a White Balance Preset: the WB Button At a setting of L (Preset manual), presets can also be selected by pressing the WB button and rotating the sub-command dial. The current preset is displayed in the control panel - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 178
the steps below to enter a descriptive comment of up to thirty-six characters for a selected white balance preset. 1 Select L (Preset manual). Highlight Preset manual in the white balance menu and press 2. 2 Select a preset. Highlight the desired preset and press the center of the multi selector - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 179
JImage Enhancement This chapter describes how to optimize sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation and hue using Picture Controls, how to preserve detail in highlights and shadows using active D-Lighting, and how to choose a color space. Picture Controls 154 Creating Custom Picture Controls - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 180
Picture Controls Nikon's unique Picture Control system makes it possible to share image processing settings, including sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue, among compatible devices and software. Selecting a - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 181
among other D300S cameras and compatible software (0 163). A Optional Picture Controls Additional optional Picture Controls are available for download from Nikon websites. A The Picture Control Indicator The current Picture Control is shown in the information display when the R button is pressed - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 182
160) can be modified to suit the scene or the user's creative intent. Choose a balanced combination of settings using Quick adjust, or make manual adjustments to individual settings. 1 Select a Picture Control. Highlight the desired Picture Control in the Set Picture Control menu (0 154) and press - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 183
options between -2 and +2 to reduce or exaggerate the effect of the selected Picture Control Quick adjust (note that this resets all manual adjustments). For example, choosing positive values for Vivid makes pictures more vivid. Not available with Neutral, Monochrome, or custom Picture Controls - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 184
D Active D-Lighting Contrast and Brightness can not be adjusted when Active D-Lighting (0164) is on. Any manual adjustments currently in effect will be lost when Active D-Lighting is turned on. D "A" (Auto) Results for auto contrast and saturation vary with exposure and the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 185
A Toning (Monochrome Only) Pressing 3 when Toning is selected displays saturation options. Press 4 or 2 to adjust saturation. Saturation control is not available when B&W (black-and-white) is selected. A Custom Picture Controls The options available with custom Picture Controls are the same as those - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 186
Creating Custom Picture Controls The Picture Controls supplied with the camera can be modified and saved as custom Picture Controls. 1 Select Manage Picture G button Control. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight Manage Picture Control in the shooting menu and press 2. 2 Select Save/ - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 187
4 Edit the selected Picture Control. See page 157 for more information. To abandon any changes and start over from default settings, press the O button. Press J when settings are complete. 5 Select a destination. Choose a destination for the custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 6 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 188
A Manage Picture Control > Rename Custom Picture Controls can be renamed at any time using the Rename option in the Manage Picture Control menu. A Manage Picture Control > Delete The Delete option in the Manage Picture Control menu can be used to delete selected custom Picture Controls when they are - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 189
Sharing Custom Picture Controls Custom Picture Controls created using the Picture Control Utility available with ViewNX or optional software such as Capture NX 2 can be copied to a memory card and loaded into the camera, or custom Picture Controls created with the camera can be copied to the memory - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 190
Active D-Lighting Active D-Lighting preserves details in highlights and shadows, creating photographs with natural contrast. Use for high contrast scenes, for example when photographing brightly lit outdoor scenery through a door or window or taking pictures of shaded subjects on a sunny day. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 191
To use active D-Lighting: 1 Select Active D-Lighting. G button To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight Active D-Lighting in the shooting menu and press 2. 2 Choose an option. Highlight Y Auto, Z Extra high, P High, Q Normal, R Low, or Off and press J. If Y Auto is selected, the camera - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 192
Color Space The color space determines the gamut of colors available for color reproduction. Choose a color space according to how photographs will be processed on leaving the camera. Option W sRGB X Adobe RGB Description Choose for photographs that will be printed or used "as is," with no - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 193
or other commercial print services. Adobe RGB photographs support Exif 2.21 and DCF 2.0, select the appropriate color space manually support color management to automatically select the correct color space. For more information, see the documentation provided with the application or device. A Nikon - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 194
J 168 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 195
lFlash Photography - Using the Built-in Flash This chapter describes how to use the built-in flash. The Built-in Flash 170 Using the Built-in Flash 171 Flash Modes 175 Flash Compensation 177 FV Lock 178 l 169 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 196
-in Flash The built-in flash has a Guide Number (GN) 17/56 (m/ft., ISO 200, 20 °C/68 °F). It supports i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR, to the subject's eyes. The following types of i-TTL flash control are supported: i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR: Flash emits series of nearly - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 197
Using the Built-in Flash Follow these steps when using the built-in flash. 1 Choose a metering method (0 102). Metering selector Select matrix or center-weighted metering to activate i-TTL balanced fillflash for digital SLR. Standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR is activated automatically when - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 198
4 Check exposure (shutter speed and aperture). Press the shutter-release button halfway and check shutter speed and aperture. The settings available when the built-in flash is raised are listed below. Mode Shutter speed Aperture See page e Set automatically by camera (1/250 s-1/60 s) 1, 2 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 199
Lowering the Built-in Flash To save power when the flash is not in use, press it gently downward until the latch clicks into place. D The Built-in Flash Use with lenses with focal lengths of 16-300 mm (0 344). Remove lens hoods to prevent shadows. The flash has a minimum range of 60 cm (2 ft.) and - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 200
A Aperture, Sensitivity, and Flash Range The range of the built-in flash varies with sensitivity (ISO equivalency) and aperture. Aperture at ISO equivalent of Range 200 400 800 1600 3200 m ft. 1.4 2 2.8 4 5.6 1.0-12.0 3ft. 3in.-39ft. 4in. 2 2.8 4 5.6 8 0.7-8.5 2ft. 4in.-27ft. 11in. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 201
Flash Modes The D300S supports the following flash modes: Flash mode Description This mode is sync tripod is recommended to prevent blurring caused by camera shake. In shutter-priority auto or manual exposure mode, flash fires just before the shutter closes. Use to create effect of a stream - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 202
flash units attached to the camera accessory shoe (Optional) as follows: i-TTL Auto aperture (AA) 1/ non-TTL auto flash (A) Manual Built-in Optional Built-in Optional Built-in Optional TTL 2 - Auto FP (0 281) - - - Repeating flash 2 - - - - Commander mode 2 - 1 Available with - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 203
Flash Compensation Flash compensation is used to alter flash output by from -3EV to +1EV in increments of 1/3EV, 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 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 204
FV Lock This feature is used to lock flash output, allowing photographs to be recomposed without changing the flash level and ensuring that flash output is appropriate to the subject even when the subject is not positioned in the center of the frame. Flash output is adjusted automatically for any - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 205
4 Lock flash level. After confirming that the flash ready indicator (M) is displayed in the viewfinder, press the Fn button. The flash will emit a monitor preflash to determine the appropriate flash level. Flash output will be locked at this level and FV lock icons (e) will appear in the control - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 206
(available separately). Set the optional flash to TTL mode (the SB-900 and SB-800 can also be used in AA mode; see the flash manual for details). While FV lock is in effect, flash output will automatically be adjusted for changes in flash zoom head position. When Commander mode is - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 207
tOther Shooting Options This chapter covers restoring default settings, making multiple exposures, interval timer photography, and using GPS units and non-CPU lenses. Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings 182 Multiple Exposure 184 Interval Timer Photography 189 Non-CPU Lenses 195 Using a - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 208
Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings The camera settings listed below can be restored to default values by holding the QUAL and E buttons down together for more than two seconds (these buttons are marked by a green dot). The control panel turns off briefly while settings are reset. QUAL - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 209
The following shooting-menu options will also be reset. Only settings in the bank currently selected using the Shooting menu bank option will be reset (0 254). Settings in the remaining banks are unaffected. Option Image quality Image size Default JPEG Normal Large Option White balance ISO - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 210
Multiple Exposure Follow the steps below to record a series of two to ten exposures in a single photograph. Multiple exposures can be recorded at any image quality setting, and produce results with colors noticeably better than photographs combined in an imaging application because they make use of - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 211
3 Select the number of shots. Press 1 or 3 to choose the number of exposures that will be combined to form a single photograph and press J. 4 Select Auto gain. Highlight Auto gain and press 2. 5 Set gain. Highlight one of the following options and press J. Option On Off Description Gain adjusted - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 212
6 Select Done. Highlight Done and press J. A n icon will be displayed in the control panel. To exit without taking a multiple exposure, select Multiple exposure > Reset in the shooting menu. 7 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. In continuous high-speed and continuous lowspeed release modes (0 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 213
D Multiple Exposure Do not remove or replace the memory card while recording a multiple exposure. Live view (0 47) can not be used to record multiple exposures. The information listed in the playback photo information display (including date of recording and camera orientation) is for the first shot - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 214
❚❚ Interrupting Multiple Exposures Selecting Multiple exposure in the shooting menu while a multiple exposure is being recorded displays the options shown at right. To interrupt a multiple exposure before the specified number of exposures have been taken, highlight Cancel and press J. If shooting - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 215
Interval Timer Photography The camera is equipped to take photographs automatically at preset intervals. D Before Shooting Select a release mode other than self-timer (E) or mirror-up (MUP) when using the interval timer. Before beginning interval timer photography, take a test shot at current - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 216
3 Choose a start time. Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours or minutes; press 1 or 3 to change. The starting time is not displayed if Now is selected for Choose start time. Press 2 to continue. 4 Choose an interval. Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours, minutes, or seconds; press 1 or 3 to change. Choose an - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 217
start of the next shot may vary. If shooting can not proceed at current settings (for example, if a shutter speed of A is currently selected in manual exposure mode or the start time is in less than a minute), a warning will be displayed in the monitor. A Cover the Viewfinder When taking photos - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 218
A Bracketing Adjust bracketing settings before starting interval timer photography. If exposure, flash, or ADL bracketing is active while interval timer photography is in effect, the camera will take the number of shots in the bracketing program at each interval, regardless of the number of shots - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 219
❚❚ Pausing Interval Timer Photography Interval time photography can be paused by: • Pressing the J button between intervals • Highlighting Start > Pause in the interval timer menu and pressing J • Turning the camera off and then on again (if desired, the memory card can be replaced while the camera - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 220
❚❚ Interrupting Interval Timer Photography Interval timer shooting will end automatically if the battery is exhausted. Interval timer photography can also be ended by: • Selecting Start > Off in the interval timer menu • Performing a two button reset (0 182) • Selecting Reset shooting menu in the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 221
Non-CPU Lenses By specifying lens data (lens focal length and maximum aperture), the user can gain access to a variety of CPU lens functions when using a non-CPU lens (0 342). If the focal length of the lens is known: • Power zoom can be used with SB-900, SB-800, and SB-600 flash units (available - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 222
❚❚ The Non-CPU Lens Data Menu 1 Select Non-CPU lens data. G button Press the G button to display the menus. Highlight Non-CPU lens data in the setup menu and press 2. 2 Select a lens number. Highlight Lens number and press 4 or 2 to choose a lens number between 1 and 9. 3 Select a focal length - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 223
5 Select Done. Highlight Done and press J. The specified focal length and aperture will be stored under the chosen lens number. This combination of focal length and aperture can be recalled at any time by selecting the lens number using camera controls as described below. ❚❚ Choosing a Lens Number - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 224
connected via an optional MC-35 GPS adapter cord (0 199). ❚❚ The GP-1 GPS Unit The GP-1 is an optional GPS unit designed for use with Nikon digital cameras. For information on connecting the unit, see the manual provided with the GP-1. t 198 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 225
. These devices connect to the MC-35 using a cable with a D-sub 9pin connector provided by the manufacturer of the GPS device. See the MC-35 instruction manual for details. Before turning the camera on, set the GPS device to NMEA mode (4800 baud). MC-35 t 199 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 226
❚❚ The k Icon When the camera establishes communication with a GPS device, a k icon will be displayed in the control panel. Photo information for pictures taken while the k icon is displayed will include a page of GPS data (0 214). GPS data are only recorded when the k icon is displayed; confirm - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 227
only available if a GPS device is connected, when it displays the current latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and heading (if supported) as reported by the GPS device. A Heading The heading is only recorded if the GPS device is equipped with a digital compass (note that - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 228
t 202 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 229
IMore About Playback - Playback Options This chapter describes how to play back photographs and details the operations that can be performed during playback. Full-Frame Playback 204 Photo Information 207 Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback 216 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom 218 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 230
Full-Frame Playback To play photographs back, press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor. K button O button K button G button L button W button X button J button Multi selector Sub-command dial Main command dial A Rotate Tall I To display "tall" (portrait- - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 231
To View additional photographs View photo information View thumbnails Zoom in on photograph Delete images Change protect status Return to shooting mode Display menus Retouch picture Play movie Use Description Press 2 to view photographs in order recorded, 4 to view photographs in reverse order. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 232
A Image Review When On is selected for Image review in the playback menu (0 251), photographs are automatically displayed in the monitor for about 4 s after shooting (because the camera is already in the correct orientation, images are not rotated automatically during image review). In singleframe, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 233
: 18-200 / 3. 5-5.6 AF / VR : S / VR-On FLASH MODE, : Built - i n, TTL, +1. 3 SLOW CMD : M : TTL, +3. 0 A: TTL, +3. 0 B : OFF C : OFF N I KON D300S 100-1 Shooting data pages 1-3 ART I S T COPYRI GHT : NIKON TARO : NIKON I N I KON D300S 100--1 Shooting data page 4 207 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 234
❚❚ File Information 1 2 34 5 1/ 10 13 12 20100D300S 10DSC_0001. JPG NORMAL 15/ 04/ 2009 10 : 15 : 29 4288x2848 11 10 9 8 1 Protect status 219 2 Retouch indicator 315 3 Focus point 1, 2 78 4 AF area brackets 1 36, 52 5 Frame number/total number of frames 6 File name 258 6 7 7 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 235
❚❚ Highlights 1 12 3 4 1 Protect status 219 100-1 2 Retouch indicator 315 3 Image highlights 2 4 Folder number-frame number......... 256 5 Current channel 2 6 Highlight display indicator 6 Highlights 5 Select R, G, B 1 Displayed only if Highlights is selected for Display mode (0 247 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 236
256 8 3 Protect status 219 9 4 Retouch indicator 315 5 White balance 133 10 Color temperature 141 White balance fine-tuning 137 Preset manual 142 6 Current channel 2 7 Histogram (RGB channel) 3. In all histograms, horizontal axis gives pixel brightness, vertical axis number of pixels - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 237
histogram will be updated to show only the data for the portion of the image visible in the monitor. A Histograms Camera histograms are intended as a guide only and may differ from those displayed in imaging applications. I 211 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 238
❚❚ Shooting Data Page 1 1 1 2 3 MTR, SPD, AP. : , 1/ 8000, F4. 8 4 EXP. MODE, I SO : , 200 5 : 0. 0 6 FOCAL LENGTH : 35mm 7 LENS : 18-200 / 3. 5-5.6 8 AF / VR : S / VR-On 9 FLASH MODE, : Built - i n, TTL, +1. 3 SLOW 10 CMD : M : TTL, +3. 0 A: TTL, +3. 0 B : OFF C : OFF N I KON - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 239
100--1 13 1 Protect status 219 2 Retouch indicator 315 3 White balance 133 Color temperature 141 White balance fine-tuning 137 Preset manual 142 4 Color space 166 5 Picture Control 154 6 Quick adjust 2 157 Original Picture Control 3 154 7 Sharpening 157 8 Contrast 157 9 Brightness 157 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 240
❚❚ Shooting Data Page 4 * 1 2 3 ART I ST : NIKON TARO 4 COPYRI GHT : NIKON 1 Protect status 219 2 Retouch indicator 315 3 Name of photographer 309 4 Copyright holder 309 5 Camera name 6 Folder number-frame number .........256 N I KON D300S 5 100--1 6 * Displayed only - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 241
number 256 25 24 23 22 21 20 27 White balance 133 Color temperature 141 White balance fine-tuning 137 17 Picture Control 154 Preset manual 142 18 Active D-Lighting 165 28 Color space 166 19 File name 258 I * -- is displayed if photo was taken using optional Picture Control (0 155 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 242
Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback To display images in "contact sheets" of four, nine, or 72 images, press the W button. Full-frame playback Thumbnail playback The following operations can be performed: To Display more images Display fewer images Toggle full frame playback Highlight - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 243
A Choosing a Memory Card If two memory cards are inserted, you can select a memory card for playback by pressing the W button when 72 thumbnails are displayed. The dialog shown at right will be displayed; highlight the desired memory card slot and press 2 to display a list of folders, then highlight - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 244
Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom Press the X button to zoom in on the current image. The following operations can be performed while zoom is in effect: To Zoom in or out View other areas of image Use X/ W Description Press X to zoom in to maximum of approximately 27 × (large images), 20 × ( - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 245
Protecting Photographs from Deletion In full-frame, zoom, and thumbnail playback, the L button can be used to protect photographs from accidental deletion. Protected files can not be deleted using the O button or the Delete option in the playback menu. Note that protected images will be deleted when - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 246
Deleting Photographs To delete the photograph displayed in full-frame playback or highlighted in the thumbnail list, press the O button. To delete multiple selected photographs or all photographs in the current playback folder, use the Delete option in the playback menu. Once deleted, photographs - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 247
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. R All Delete all pictures in the folder currently selected for - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 248
3 Select the highlighted picture. Press the center of the multi selector to select the highlighted picture. Selected pictures are marked by a O icon. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to select additional pictures; to deselect a picture, highlight it and press the center of the multi selector. 4 Press J to - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 249
QConnections - Connecting to External Devices This chapter describes how to copy photographs to a computer, how to print pictures, and how to view them on a television set. Connecting to a Computer 224 Direct USB Connection 225 Wireless and Ethernet Networks 227 Printing Photographs 228 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 250
camera, install Nikon Transfer and ViewNX from the supplied Software Suite CD (see the Install Guide for more information). Nikon Transfer starts Supported Operating Systems The supplied software can be used with computers running the following operating systems: • Windows: Windows Vista Service - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 251
Direct USB Connection Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. 1 Turn the camera off. 2 Turn the computer on. Turn the computer on and wait for it to start up. 3 Connect the USB cable. Connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle. D - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 252
Transfer will start automatically; click the Start Transfer button to transfer photographs (for more information on using Nikon Transfer, select Nikon Transfer help from the Nikon Transfer Help menu). Start Transfer button 6 Turn the camera off. Turn the camera off and disconnect the USB cable - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 253
printer connected to network computer. For more information, see the WT-4 user's manual. Be sure to update to the latest versions of the WT-4 firmware and and WT-4A/B/C/D/E is in the number of channels supported; unless otherwise stated, all references to the WT-4 also apply to the WT-4A - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 254
Printing Photographs To print selected JPEG pictures on a PictBridge printer via direct USB connection, follow the steps below. Take photographs Select photographs for printing using Print set (DPOF) (0 237) Connect camera to printer (0 229) Print photographs Print multiple Create index prints - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 255
Connecting the Printer Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. 1 Turn the camera off. 2 Connect the USB cable. Turn the printer on and connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle. D USB Hubs Connect the camera directly to the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 256
Printing Pictures One at a Time 1 Select a picture. Press 4 or 2 to view additional pictures. Press 1 or 3 to view photo information (0 207), or press and hold the X button to zoom in on the current frame (0 218). To view six pictures at a time, press the W button. Use the multi selector to - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 257
of crop using multi selector and press J. A Page Size, Border, Time Stamp, and Cropping Choose printer default to print at current printer settings. Only Q options supported by the current printer can be selected. Note that print quality may drop if small crops are printed at large sizes. 231 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 258
4 Start printing. Select Start printing and press J to start printing. To cancel before all copies have been printed, press J. Q 232 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 259
Printing Multiple Pictures 1 Display the PictBridge menu. Press the G button in the PictBridge playback display (see Step 3 on page 229). G button 2 Choose Print select or Print (DPOF). Highlight one of the following options and press 2. • Print select: Select pictures for printing. • Print (DPOF - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 260
3 Select pictures. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture full screen, press and hold the X button. L button To select the current picture for printing, press the L button and press 1. The picture will be marked with a Z icon and the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 261
5 Adjust printing options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. Option Description Menu of page size options will be displayed (0 230). Page size Press 1 or 3 to choose page size (to print at default page size for current printer, select Printer default), then press J to - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 262
❚❚ Creating Index Prints To create an index print of all JPEG pictures on the memory card, select Index print in Step 2 of "Printing Multiple Pictures" (0 233). Note that if the memory card contains more than 256 pictures, only the first 256 images will be printed. 1 Select Index print. Highlight - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 263
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. 1 Choose Select/set. G button Press the G button and select Print set (DPOF) in the playback menu. Highlight Select/set and press 2 (to - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 264
and follow the steps in "Printing Multiple Pictures" to modify and print the current order (0 233). DPOF date and data imprint options are not supported when printing via direct USB connection; to print the date of recording on photographs in the current print order, use the PictBridge Time stamp - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 265
Viewing Photographs on TV The supplied EG-D2 audio/video (A/V) cable can be used to connect the D300S to a television or VCR for playback or recording. A type C mini-pin High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable (available separately from commercial sources) can be used to connect the camera - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 266
recorded in stereo using an external microphone is viewed on a television connected to the camera via an A/V cable, the audio output is monaural. HDMI connections support stereo output. Volume can be adjusted using television controls; the camera controls can not be used. Q 240 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 267
. During playback, images will be displayed on the highdefinition television or monitor screen; the camera monitor will remain off. A Movies To display or hide a guide in the monitor when viewing movies on an HDMI device, press the R button. A HDMI Q At the default setting of Auto, the camera - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 268
Q 242 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 269
UMenu Guide This chapter describes the options available in the camera menus. D The Playback Menu: Managing Images 244 C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options 253 A Custom Settings: Fine- - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 270
D The Playback Menu: Managing Images To display the playback menu, press G and select the K (playback menu) tab. G button Option 0 Delete 221 Playback folder 245 Hide image 245 Display mode 247 Copy image(s) 248 Image review 251 After delete 251 Rotate tall 251 Slide show 252 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 271
Playback Folder G button ➜ D playback menu Choose a folder for playback. Option Description D300S Pictures in all folders created with the D300S will be visible during playback. All Pictures in all folders will be visible during playback. Current Only pictures in the current folder will be - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 272
2 Select pictures. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card (to view the highlighted picture full screen, press and hold the X button; to view images in other locations, press W and select the desired card and folder as described on page 217) and press the center of - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 273
Display Mode G button ➜ D playback menu Choose the information available in the playback photo information display (0 207). 1 Select options. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option, then press 2 to select the option for the photo information display. A L appears next to selected items; to deselect, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 274
Copy Image(s) G button ➜ D playback menu Copy images between memory cards. This option is only available when two memory cards are inserted in the camera. Option Description Select source Select the card from which pictures will be copied. Select image(s) Select the pictures to be copied. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 275
5 Make the initial selection. Before going on select or deselect individual images, you can mark all or all protected images in the folder for copying by choosing Select all images or Select protected images. To mark only individually selected images for copying, choose Deselect all before - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 276
To choose from a list of existing folders, choose Select folder from list, highlight a folder, and press J. 9 Copy the images. Highlight Copy image(s)? and press 2. A confirmation dialog will be displayed; highlight Yes and press J. Press J again to exit when copying is complete. D Copying Images - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 277
Image Review G button ➜ D playback menu Choose whether pictures are automatically displayed in the monitor immediately after shooting. If Off is selected, pictures can only be displayed by pressing the K button. After Delete G button ➜ D playback menu Choose the picture displayed after an image - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 278
Slide Show G button ➜ D playback menu Create a slide show of the pictures in the current playback folder (0 245). Hidden images (0 245) are not displayed. Option Start Frame interval Description Start slide show. Choose how long each picture will be displayed. To start the slide show, highlight - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 279
C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options To display the shooting menu, press G and select the C (shooting menu) tab. G button Option Shooting menu bank Reset shooting menu Active folder File naming Primary slot selection Secondary slot function Image quality Image size JPEG compression NEF (RAW) - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 280
one of four banks. With the exceptions of Interval timer shooting, Multiple exposure, and modifications to Picture Controls (quick adjust and other manual adjustments), changes to settings in one bank have no effect on the others. To store a particular combination of frequently-used settings, select - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 281
2 Enter a name. Keyboard area To move the cursor in the name area, press the W button and press 4 or 2. To enter a new letter at the current cursor position, use the multi selector to highlight the desired Name area character in the keyboard area and press the center of the multi selector. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 282
Reset Shooting Menu G button ➜ C shooting menu Select Yes to restore default settings for the current shooting menu bank. See page 368 for a list of default settings. Active Folder G button ➜ C shooting menu Select the folder in which subsequent images will be stored. ❚❚ New Folder Number 1 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 283
❚❚ Select Folder 1 Choose Select folder. Highlight Select folder and press 2. 2 Highlight a folder. Press 1 or 3 to highlight a folder. 3 Select the highlighted folder. Press J to select the highlighted folder and return to the shooting menu (to exit without changing the active folder, press the G - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 284
File Naming G button ➜ C shooting menu Photographs are saved using file names consisting of "DSC_" or, in the case of images that use the Adobe RGB color space, "_DSC", followed by a four-digit number and a three-letter extension (e.g., "DSC_0001.JPG"). The File naming option is used to select - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 285
High ISO NR G button ➜ C shooting menu Photographs taken at high ISO sensitivities can be processed to reduce "noise." Option S High T Normal U Low Off Description Noise reduction is performed at ISO sensitivities of ISO 800 and higher. While photographs are being processed, the capacity of the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 286
A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings To display the Custom Settings menu, press G and select the A (Custom Settings menu) tab. G button Custom Settings are used to customize camera settings to suit individual preferences. Main menu Custom Setting groups U 260 B: Custom setting A: - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 287
The following Custom Settings are available: Custom Setting 0 B Custom setting bank 262 A Reset custom settings 262 a Autofocus a1 AF-C priority selection 263 a2 AF-S priority selection 264 a3 Dynamic AF area 264 a4 Focus tracking with lock-on 266 a5 AF activation 266 a6 AF point - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 288
B: Custom Setting Bank G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Custom Settings are stored in one of four banks. Changes to settings in one bank have no effect on the others. To store a particular combination of frequently-used settings, select one of the four banks and set the camera to these settings. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 289
a: Autofocus a1: AF-C Priority Selection G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu This option controls whether photographs can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed (release priority) or only when the camera is in focus (focus priority) in continuous-servo AF. To select continuous- - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 290
a2: AF-S Priority Selection G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu This option controls whether Focus mode selector photographs can be taken only when the camera is in focus (focus priority) or whenever the shutter- release button is pressed (release priority) in single-servo AF. To select - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 291
Option Description If the subject leaves the selected focus point, the d 21 points camera will focus based on information from the surrounding 20 focus points. Choose when photographing subjects that are moving unpredictably (e.g., players at a football game). If the subject leaves the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 292
a4: Focus Tracking with Lock-On G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu This option controls how autofocus adjusts to sudden large changes in the distance to the subject. Option Description C Long When the distance to the subject changes abruptly, the camera waits for the specified period (long, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 293
display is selected has no effect. a8: AF Point Selection G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Choose the number of focus points available for manual focuspoint selection. Option Description B 51 points Choose from the 51 focus points shown at right. Choose from the 11 focus points A 11 points - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 294
a9: Built-in AF-assist Illuminator G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Choose whether the built-in AF-assist illuminator lights to assist the focus operation when lighting is poor. Option On Off Description The AF-assist illuminator lights when lighting is poor. AFassist illumination is only - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 295
a10: AF-On for MB-D10 Choose the function assigned to the B button on the optional MB-D10 battery pack. G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Option Description A AF-ON Pressing the MB-D10 B button initiates autofocus. B AE/AF lock Focus and exposure lock while the MB-D10 B button is pressed. C - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 296
b: Metering/Exposure b1: ISO Sensitivity Step Value G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Select the increments used when making adjustments to ISO sensitivity. b2: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl. G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Select the increments used when making adjustments to shutter speed, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 297
b4: Easy Exposure Compensation G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu This option controls whether the E button is needed to set exposure compensation (0 118). If On (Auto reset) or On is selected, the 0 at the center of the exposure display will blink even when exposure compensation is set to ±0. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 298
b5: Center-Weighted Area G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu When calculating exposure, center-weighted metering assigns the greatest weight to a circle in the center of the frame. The diameter (φ ) of this circle can be set to 6, 8, 10, or 13 mm or to the average of the entire frame. Option M φ 6 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 299
c: Timers/AE Lock c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu At the default setting of Off, exposure only locks when the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed. If On is selected, exposure will also lock when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. c2: Auto Meter-off Delay G - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 300
c4: Monitor off Delay G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Choose how long the monitor remains on when no operations are performed during playback (Playback; defaults to 10 s) and image review (Image review; defaults to 4 s) or when menus (Menus; defaults to 20 s) or information (Information display; - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 301
d: Shooting/Display d1: Beep G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu If High (high pitch) or Low (low pitch) is selected, a beep will sound at the selected pitch while the self-timer is active or when the camera focuses using single-servo AF. Note that a beep will not sound when the camera focuses - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 302
d4: Screen Tips G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Choose On to display tool tips for items selected in the information display. d5: CL Mode Shooting Speed G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Choose the maximum frame advance rate in CL (continuous low speed) mode (during interval timer photography, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 303
d7: File Number Sequence G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu 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, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 304
change from black to white or white to black to maintain contrast with the background. To always use the same color lettering, select Manual and choose Dark on light (B; black lettering) or Light on dark (W; white lettering). Monitor brightness will automatically be adjusted for maximum contrast - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 305
d11: MB-D10 Battery Type G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu To ensure that the camera functions as expected when eight AA batteries are used in the optional MB-D10 battery pack, match the option selected in this menu to the type of batteries inserted in the battery pack. There is no need to adjust - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 306
d12: Battery Order G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Choose whether the battery in the camera or the batteries in the battery pack are used first when an optional MB-D10 battery pack is attached. A X icon is displayed in the camera control panel when the batteries in the MB-D10 are in use. A The - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 307
fix shutter speed at the sync speed limit in shutter-priority auto or manual exposure modes, select the next shutter speed after the slowest possible shutter Sync Allows the flash to be used at the highest shutter speed supported by the camera, making it possible to choose the maximum aperture for - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 308
auto or aperture-priority auto exposure modes (regardless of the setting chosen, shutter speeds can be as slow as 30 s in shutter-priority auto and manual exposure modes or at flash settings of slow sync, slow rear-curtain sync, or red-eye reduction with slow sync). Options range from 1/60 s (1/60 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 309
more remote optional flash units (0 285). A Flash Control Mode The flash control mode for the built-in flash is shown in the information display. A "Manual" and "Repeating Flash" Y icons blink in the control panel and viewfinder when these options are selected. A The SB-400 When an optional SB-400 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 310
❚❚ Manual Choose a flash level between Full and 1/128 (1/128 of full power). At full power, the built-in flash has a Guide Number of 17/56 (m/ft., ISO 200, 20°C/68°F). ❚❚ Repeating Flash The flash fires repeatedly while the shutter is open, producing a strobe-light effect. Press 4 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 311
❚❚ Commander Mode Use the built-in flash as a master flash controlling one or more remote optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 flash units in up to two groups (A and B) using advanced wireless lighting. Selecting this option displays the menu shown at right. Press 4 or 2 to highlight the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 312
Follow the steps below to take photographs in commander mode. 1 Adjust settings for the built-in flash. Choose the flash control mode and output level for the built-in flash. Note that output level can not be adjusted in - - mode. 2 Adjust settings for group A. Choose the flash control mode and - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 313
units to the selected channel. Turn all the remote flash units on and set them to the channel selected in Step 4. See the flash unit instruction manuals for details. 8 Raise the built-in flash. Press the flash pop-up button to raise the built-in flash. Note that even if - - is selected - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 314
A The Flash Sync Mode Display M does not appear in the control panel flash sync mode display when - - is selected for Built-in flash > Mode. A Flash Compensation The flash compensation value selected with the Y (M) button and subcommand dial is added to the flash compensation values selected for the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 315
e4: Modeling Flash G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu If On is selected when the camera is being used with the built-in flash or an optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 flash unit, a modeling flash will be emitted when the camera depth-of-field preview button is pressed (0 105). No modeling - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 316
Settings menu This option determines which settings are affected when AE & flash or AE only is selected for Custom Setting e5 in manual exposure mode. Option F Flash/speed G Flash/speed/ aperture H Flash/aperture I Flash only Description Camera varies shutter speed (Custom Setting e5 set to - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 317
f: Controls f1: D Switch G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Choose what happens when the power switch is rotated to D. Option Description D LCD backlight (D) Control panel backlight illuminates for 6 s. 0 D and information display Control panel backlight illuminates and shooting information - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 318
Option u Choose slot and folder Role assigned to center of multi selector Display card slot selection dialog; highlight slot and press 2 to display list of folders. Highlight folder and press J to select folder for playback. Only folders currently selected for playback (0 245) are displayed. f3: - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 319
❚❚ Fn Button Press Selecting Fn button press for Custom Setting f5 displays the following options: Option Description q Preview * Press the Fn button to preview depth of field (0 105). r FV lock * Press the Fn button to lock flash value (built-in flash and SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 320
Option Description Center- M weighted metering Center-weighted metering is activated while the Fn button is pressed. N Spot metering Spot metering is activated while the Fn button is pressed. Fn button performs same function as K button. K Playback * Select when using a telephoto lens or in - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 321
❚❚ Fn button + dials Selecting Fn button + dials for Custom Setting f5 displays the following options: Option Description If the Fn button is pressed when the command dials are rotated, changes to shutter speed (exposure modes f v 1 step spd/ aperture and h) and aperture (exposure modes g and - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 322
f6: Assign Preview Button G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Choose the role played by the depth-of-field preview button, either by itself (Preview button press) or when used in combination with the command dials (Preview + command dials). The options available are the same as for Fn button press - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 323
f8: Customize Command Dials G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu This option controls the operation of the main and sub-command dials. Option Description Controls the direction of the command dials. Choose No for normal command Reverse dial operation, Yes to reverse the rotation rotation of the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 324
Option Description If Off is selected, the multi selector is used to choose the picture displayed during full-frame playback, highlight thumbnails, and navigate menus. If On is selected, the main command dial can be used to choose the picture displayed during full-frame playback, move the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 325
f10: No Memory Card? G button ➜ A Custom Settings menu Selecting Enable release allows the shutter to be released when no memory card is inserted, although no pictures will be recorded (they will however be displayed in the monitor in demo mode). If Release locked is selected, the shutter-release - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 326
B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup To display the setup menu, press G and select the B (setup menu) tab. G button Option 0 Option 0 Format memory card 301 Battery info 307 LCD brightness 301 Wireless transmitter 227 Clean image sensor 358 Image authentication 308 Lock mirror up for - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 327
Format Memory Card G button ➜ B Setup menu To begin formatting, choose a memory card slot and select Yes. Note that formatting permanently deletes all pictures and other data on the card in the selected slot. Before formatting, be sure to make backup copies as required. D During Formatting Do not - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 328
HDMI G button ➜ B Setup menu The camera is equipped with an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connector, allowing pictures to be played back on high-definition televisions or monitors using a cable with a type C mini-pin connector (available separately from commercial suppliers). Before - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 329
Language G button ➜ B Setup menu Choose a language for camera menus and messages. The following options are available. Danish German English Spanish Finnish French Italian Dutch Norwegian Polish Portuguese Russian Swedish Traditional Chinese Simplified Chinese Japanese Korean Image Comment G - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 330
Auto Image Rotation G button ➜ B Setup menu Photographs taken while On is selected contain information on camera orientation, allowing them to be rotated automatically during playback (0 204) or when viewed in ViewNX (supplied) or in Capture NX 2 (available separately; 0 355). The following - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 331
button ➜ B Setup menu Acquire reference data for the Image Dust Off option in Capture NX 2 (available separately; for more information, see the Capture NX 2 manual). Image Dust Off ref photo is available only when a CPU lens is mounted on the camera. A lens with a focal length of at least 50 mm - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 332
the viewfinder and then press the shutter-release button halfway. In autofocus mode, focus will automatically be set to infinity; in manual focus mode, set focus to infinity manually. 3 Acquire dust off reference data. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to acquire Image Dust - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 333
Battery Info G button ➜ B Setup menu View information on the battery currently inserted in the camera. Item Description Bat. meter The current battery level expressed as a percentage. The number of times the shutter has been released with the current battery since the battery was last charged - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 334
s On to embed image authentication information in new photographs as they are taken, allowing alterations to be detected using Nikon's optional Image Authentication software. Image authentication information can not be embedded in existing photographs. Photographs taken with image authentication - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 335
that Attach copyright information is not selected and that the Artist and Copyright fields are blank before lending or transferring the camera to another person. Nikon does not accept liability for any damages or disputes arising from the use of the Copyright information option. U 309 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 336
Save/Load Settings G button ➜ B Setup menu Select Save settings to save the following settings to the memory card, or to the memory card in the primary card slot if two memory cards are inserted (if the memory card is full, an error will be displayed; 0 381). Menu Option Display mode Playback - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 337
Menu Option Clean image sensor Video mode HDMI Time zone and date (excepting date and time) Language Setup Image comment Auto image rotation Image authentication Copyright information GPS Non-CPU lens data All My Menu items My Menu/ Recent Settings All recent settings Choose tab - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 338
AF Fine Tune G button ➜ B Setup menu Fine-tune focus for up to 12 lens types. AF tuning is not recommended in most situations and may interfere with normal focus; use only when required. Option Description AF fine tune (On/Off) • On: Turn AF tuning on. • Off: Turn AF tuning off. Tune AF for - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 339
D AF Tuning The camera may be unable to focus at minimum range or at infinity when AF tuning is applied. D Live View (Tripod) Mode Tuning is not applied to contrast-detect autofocus when Tripod is selected in live view mode (0 49). A Saved Value Only one value can be stored for each type of lens. If - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 340
information on errors involving Eye-Fi cards, see the manual provided with the Eye-Fi card, and direct any inquiries to the manufacturer. The camera can be used to turn Eye-Fi cards on and off, but may not support other Eye-Fi functions. A Supported Eye-Fi Cards As of April 2009, the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 341
N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies To display the retouch menu, press G and select the N (retouch menu) tab. G button The options in the retouch menu are used to create trimmed, or retouched copies of existing pictures. The retouch menu is only displayed when a memory card containing - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 342
Creating Retouched Copies To create a retouched copy: 1 Choose a picture. Display the desired picture in full-frame playback (0 204). A Retouch The camera may not be able to display or retouch images created with other devices. 2 Display the retouch menu. Press J to display the retouch menu. A See - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 343
4 Select retouch options. For more information, see the section for the selected item. To return to full-frame playback without creating a retouched copy, press K. A Monitor off Delay The monitor will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for 20 s. The delay can be adjusted with - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 344
D Retouching Copies Most options can be applied to copies created using other retouch options, although with the exceptions of Image overlay and Edit movie each option can only be applied once (note that multiple edits may result in loss of detail). Options that can not be applied to the current - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 345
D-Lighting G button ➜ N retouch menu D-lighting brightens shadows, making it ideal for dark or backlit photographs. Before After Press 1 or 3 to choose the amount of correction performed. The effect can be previewed in the edit display. Press J to copy the photograph. U 319 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 346
Red-Eye Correction G button ➜ N retouch menu This option is used to correct "red-eye" caused by the flash, and is available only with photographs taken using the flash. The photograph selected for red-eye correction is previewed as shown at right. Confirm the effects of red-eye correction and - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 347
Trim G button ➜ N retouch menu Create a cropped copy of the selected photograph. The selected photograph is displayed with the selected crop shown in yellow; create a cropped copy as described in the following table. To Reduce size of crop Increase size of crop Use Description W Press the W - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 348
Monochrome G button ➜ N retouch menu Copy photographs in Black-and-white, Sepia, or Cyanotype (blue and white monochrome). Selecting Sepia or Cyanotype displays a preview of the selected image; press 1 to increase color saturation, 3 to decrease. Press J to create a monochrome copy. Increase - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 349
Color Balance G button ➜ N retouch menu Use the multi selector to create a copy with modified color balance as shown below. The effect is displayed in the monitor together with red, green, and blue histograms (0 210) giving the distribution of tones in the copy. Press J to copy the photograph. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 350
Image Overlay G button ➜ N retouch menu Image overlay combines two existing NEF (RAW) photographs to create a single picture that is saved separately from the originals; the results, which make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor, are noticeably better than photographs combined in an - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 351
4 Select the second photograph. The selected image will appear as Image 1. Press 2 to highlight Image 2 and repeat steps 2-3 to select the second photo. 5 Set gain. Highlight Image 1 or Image 2 and optimize exposure for the overlay by pressing 1 or 3 to select the gain for image 1 from values - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 352
8 Save the overlay. Press J while the preview is displayed to save the overlay. After an overlay is created, the resulting image will be displayed full-frame in the monitor. + D Image Overlay Only NEF (RAW) photographs created with the D300S can be selected for image overlay. Other images are not - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 353
NEF (RAW) Processing G button ➜ N retouch menu Create JPEG copies of NEF (RAW) photographs. 1 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. 2 Select a - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 354
3 Adjust NEF (RAW) processing settings. Choose image quality (0 68), image size (0 71), white balance (0 134), exposure compensation (0 118), a Picture Control (0 154; note that the Picture Control grid can not be displayed) and high ISO noise reduction (0 259), and color space (0 166) for the JPEG - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 355
Resize G button ➜ N retouch menu Create small copies of selected photographs. Resize can be used during full-frame playback as described on page 316. If you select Resize in the retouch menu, you can resize multiple photographs as described below. 1 Choose a destination. If two memory cards are - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 356
3 Choose pictures. Highlight Select image and press 2. The dialog shown at right will be displayed; highlight pictures using the multi selector and press the center of the multi selector to select or deselect (to view the highlighted picture full screen, press and hold the X button; to view images - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 357
ISide-by-Side Comparison G button ➜ N retouch menu Compare retouched copies to the original photographs. This option is only available if the J button is pressed to display the retouch menu when a copy or original is played back full frame. ❚❚ Making a Side-by-Side Comparison 1 Select a picture. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 358
3 Compare the copy with the original. Options used to create copy The source image is displayed on the left, the retouched copy on the right, with the options used to create the copy listed at the top of the display. Press 4 or 2 to switch between the source image and the Source Retouched - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 359
O My Menu: Creating a Custom Menu To display My Menu, press G and select the O (My Menu) tab. G button The My Menu option can be used to create and edit a customized list of options from the playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, and retouch menus for quick access (up to 20 items). If desired, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 360
3 Select an item. Highlight the desired menu item and press J. 4 Position the new item. Press 1 or 3 to move the new item up or down in My Menu. Press J to add the new item. 5 Add more items. The items currently displayed in My Menu are indicated by a check mark. Items indicated by a V icon can not - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 361
Deleting Options from My Menu 1 Select Remove items. In My Menu (O), highlight Remove items and press 2. 2 Select items. Highlight items and press 2 to select or deselect. Selected items are indicated by a check mark. 3 Select Done. Highlight Done and press J. A confirmation dialog will be displayed - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 362
Reordering Options in My Menu 1 Select Rank items. In My Menu (O), highlight Rank items and press 2. 2 Select an item. Highlight the item you wish to move and press J. 3 Position the item. Press 1 or 3 to move the item up or down in My Menu and press J. Repeat Steps 2-3 to reposition additional - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 363
Displaying Recent Settings To display the twenty most recently used settings, select m Recent settings for O My Menu > Choose tab. 1 Select Choose tab. In My Menu (O), highlight Choose tab and press 2. 2 Select m Recent settings. Highlight m Recent settings and press J. The name of the menu will - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 364
U 338 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 365
to do if an error message is displayed or you encounter problems using the camera. Compatible Lenses 340 Optional Flash Units (Speedlights /Shutdown 359 Manual Cleaning 361 Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions 364 Defaults 368 Exposure Program 372 Troubleshooting 373 Error Messages - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 366
3 3 1 IX-NIKKOR lenses can not be used. 2 Vibration Reduction (VR) supported with VR lenses. 3 Spot metering meters selected focus point. 4 Can not be used , or when an aperture other than the maximum aperture is used. 6 Manual exposure mode only. n 7 Can be used with AF-S and AF-I lenses only - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 367
on matte screen in viewfinder is not in focus. Adjust focus manually until image in viewfinder is in focus. 10 With maximum aperture 4G ED VR 2 • AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4G ED VR 2 1 Autofocus not supported. 2 Autofocus not supported when used with AF-S Teleconverter TC-17E II/ TC-20E II. n A Lens - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 368
C M (with electronic rangefinder) M P S A aZ M 3D Color b AI-, AI-modified, NIKKOR or Nikon Series E lenses 2 - ✔3 ✔ - ✔4 - ✔5 ✔6 Medical-NIKKOR 120mm f/4 - ✔ ✔ - ✔7 Non-CPU lens data (0 195). 7 Can be used in manual exposure mode at shutter speeds slower than flash sync speed by one - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 369
11 With maximum effective aperture of f/5.6 or faster. 12 Requires PK-12 or PK-13 auto extension ring. PB-6D may be required depending on camera orientation. 13 Use preset aperture. In aperture-priority auto exposure mode, set aperture using focusing attachment before determining exposure and taking - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 370
will be unable to light the entire subject at all ranges. The built-in flash can also be used with AI-S, AI-, AI-modified NIKKOR, Nikon Series E and non-CPU lenses with a focal length of 16-300mm. AI 50-300mm f/4.5, modified AI 50-300mm f/4.5, and AI-S 50-300mm f/4.5 ED lenses must - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 371
D AF-Assist Illumination The AF-assist illumination is available with lenses with focal lengths of 24-200mm. It can not however be used to assist the focus operation with the following lenses: • AF-S VR 200mm f/2G ED • AF-S VR 200-400mm f/4G ED At ranges under 0.7m (2ft. 4in.), the following - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 372
A Calculating Picture Angle The size of the area exposed by a 35mm camera is 36 × 24 mm. The size of the area exposed by the D300S, in contrast, is approximately 23.6 × 15.8 mm, meaning that the diagonal picture angle of a 35mm camera is approximately 1.5 times that of the D300S. To calculate the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 373
Optional Flash Units (Speedlights) The camera supports the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) and can . 1 Remove the accessory shoe cover. 2 Mount the flash unit on the accessory shoe. See the manual provided with the flash unit for details. The built-in flash will not fire when an optional flash - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 374
Creative Lighting System (CLS) Nikon's advanced Creative Lighting System (CLS) offers improved communication between the camera and SB-400, and SB-R200: Flash unit Feature SB-900 1 SB-800 SB-600 SB-400 SB-R200 2 Guide ISO 100 34/111 No. 3 ISO 200 48/157 38/125 53/174 30/98 42/138 21/69 30/ - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 375
i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR ✔2 ✔2 ✔3 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ AA Auto aperture ✔4 - - ✔5 ✔5 ✔5 - - A Non-TTL auto ✔6 - - ✔5 - ✔5 - - GN Range-priority manual M Manual ✔ ✔ ✔7 RPT Repeating flash Auto FP High-Speed Sync 8 FV lock AF-assist for multi-area AF 9 Flash - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 376
available with AF-Micro lenses (60 mm, 105 mm, or 200 mm). D Notes on Optional Flash Units Refer to the flash unit manual for detailed instructions. If the unit supports CLS, refer to the section on CLS-compatible digital SLR cameras. The D300S is not included in the "digital SLR" category in the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 377
over 250 V applied to the accessory shoe could not only prevent normal operation, but damage the sync circuitry of the camera or flash. Before using a Nikon flash unit not listed in this section, contact a Nikon-authorized service representative for more information. n 351 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 378
2 (available separately). Note that the WT-4 requires an independent power source; an EH-6 AC adapter or a second EN-EL3e battery is recommended. See the WT-4 manual for details. n 352 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 379
Viewfinder eyepiece accessories • Diopter-Adjustment Viewfinder Lens DK-20C: To accommodate individual differences in vision, viewfinder lenses are available with diopters of -5, -4, -3, -2, 0, +0.5, +1, +2, and +3 m-1. Use diopter adjustment lenses only if the desired focus can not be achieved - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 380
, R60, X0, X1, C-PL, ND2S, ND4, ND4S, ND8, ND8S, ND400, A2, A12, B2, B8, B12). See the filter manual for details. • Nikon Speedlights SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400 Optional flash • Nikon Wireless Remote Speedlight SB-R200 units • Wireless Speedlight Commander SU-800 See page 348 for more - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 381
software. Most Nikon software offers an auto update feature when the computer is connected to the Internet. See the websites listed on page xxiv for the latest information on supported operating systems. • BF-1A Body Cap: The body cap keeps the mirror, viewfinder screen, and low-pass filter free - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 382
Remote terminal accessories The D300S is equipped with a tenpin remote terminal for remote control and automatic photography. The terminal is provided with a cap, which protects the contacts when the terminal is not in use. The following accessories can be used (all lengths are approximate): • - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 383
Caring for the Camera Storage When the camera will not be used for an extended period, replace the monitor cover, remove the battery, and store the battery in a cool, dry area with the terminal cover in place. To prevent mold or mildew, store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area. Do not store - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 384
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. The filter can - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 385
3 Select Clean now. Highlight Clean now and press 2. The message shown at right will be displayed while cleaning is in progress. The message shown at right will be displayed when cleaning is complete. ❚❚ "CleanatStartup/Shutdown" 1 Select Clean at startup/ shutdown. Display the Clean image sensor - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 386
. If dust can not be fully removed using the options in the Clean image sensor menu, clean the image sensor manually (0 361) or consult a Nikon-authorized service representative. If image sensor cleaning is performed several times in succession, image n sensor cleaning may be temporarily disabled to - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 387
option in the setup menu, the filter can be cleaned manually as described below. Note, however, that the filter is extremely delicate and easily damaged. Nikon recommends that the filter be cleaned only by Nikon-authorized service personnel. 1 Charge the battery or connect an AC adapter. A reliable - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 388
not use a blowerbrush, as the bristles could damage the filter. Dirt that can not be removed with a blower can only be removed by Nikonauthorized service personnel. Under no circumstances should you touch or wipe the filter. 7 Turn the camera off. The mirror will return to the down position and the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 389
foreign matter find its way onto the low-pass filter, clean the filter as described above, or have the filter cleaned by authorized Nikon service personnel. Photographs affected by the presence of foreign matter on the filter can be retouched using Capture NX 2 (available separately; 0 355) or the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 390
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 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 391
Cleaning: When cleaning the camera body, use a blower to gently remove dust and lint, then wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. After using the camera at the beach or seaside, wipe off any sand or salt using a cloth lightly dampened in pure water and then dry the camera thoroughly. In rare instances, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 392
Turn the product off before removing or disconnecting the power source: Do not unplug the product or remove the battery while the product is on or while images are being recorded or deleted. Forcibly cutting power in these circumstances could result in loss of data or in damage to product memory or - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 393
Batteries: Dirt on the battery terminals can prevent the camera from functioning and should be removed with a soft, dry cloth before use. Batteries may leak or explode if improperly handled. Observe the following precautions when handling batteries: Turn the product off before replacing the battery. - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 394
Defaults The default settings for the options in the camera menus are listed below. For information on two-button resets, see page 182. ❚❚ Playback Menu Defaults Option Playback folder (0 244) Image review (0 251) After delete (0 251) Rotate tall (0 251) Slide show (0 252) Frame interval (0 252) - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 395
Live view mode (0 49, 52) Tripod Multiple exposure (0 184) Reset 2 Movie settings (0 62) Quality 640 × 424 (3 : 2) Microphone Auto sensitivity (A) Destination CF card slot Interval timer shooting (0 189) Reset 3 1 Default settings can be restored using Reset shooting menu (0 256). With - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 396
Option c1 Shutter-release button AE-L (0 273) c2 Auto meter-off delay (0 273) c3 Self-timer (0 273) c4 Monitor off delay (0 274) Playback Menus Information display Image review d1 Beep (0 275) d2 Viewfinder grid display (0 275) d3 Viewfinder warning display (0 275) d4 Screen tips (0 276) d5 CL mode - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 397
Option f5 Assign Fn button (0 292) Default Fn button press None Fn button + dials f6 Assign preview button (0 296) Auto bracketing Preview button press Preview Preview + command dials f7 Assign AE-L/AF-L button (0 296) None AE-L/AF-L button press AE/AF lock AE-L/AF-L + command dials - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 398
Exposure Program The exposure program for programmed auto is shown in the following graph: Aperture f/1.4 − f/16 ISO 200; lens with maximum aperture of f/1.4 and minimum aperture of f/16 (e.g., AF 50mm f/1.4 D) [ EV] f/1 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 f/1.4 15 f/2 16 f/2.8 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 399
Troubleshooting If the camera fails to function as expected, check the list of common problems below before consulting your retailer or Nikon the event of continued malfunction, contact your retailer or Nikon- authorized service representative. Note that disconnecting the power source as described - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 400
d10 (Exposure delay mode; 0 278). Photos are out of focus: • Rotate focus-mode selector to S or C (0 74). • Camera unable to focus using autofocus: use manual focus or focus lock (0 80, 83). • Tripod selected in live view: camera will not focus when shutter-release button is pressed halfway. Use AF - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 401
Beep does not sound: • Off is selected for Custom Setting d1 (Beep; 0 275). • Camera is in quiet shutter-release mode (0 86). • Camera is in focus mode C or M (0 74). • Release is selected for Custom Setting a2 (AF-S priority selection; 0 264). • Movie is being recorded (0 58). Photos not recorded - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 402
White balance bracketing unavailable: • NEF (RAW) or NEF+JPEG image quality option selected for image quality (0 68). • Multiple exposure mode is in effect (0 187). Effects of Picture Control differ from image to image: A (auto) is selected for sharpening, contrast, or saturation. For consistent - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 403
software such as Capture NX 2 (available separately). Can not copy pictures to computer using Nikon Transfer: Operating system is not supported (0 224). Transfer pictures from the memory card using a card reader or card slot. ❚❚ Miscellaneous Date of recording is not correct: Set camera clock - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 404
viewfinder, control panel, and monitor. Indicator Control View- panel finder Problem Solution B (blinks) Lens aperture ring is not set to minimum or replace battery. • Battery can not be • Contact Nikon- used. authorized service representative. • An extremely • Replace the battery, H d - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 405
Problem Solution 0 No lens attached, or non-CPU lens attached without specifying Aperture value will be F maximum aperture. displayed if maximum 195 Aperture shown in aperture is specified. stops from maximum aperture. - D (blinks) Camera unable to focus using autofocus. Focus manually - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 406
g Choose a larger aperture (smaller f-number) A (blinks) A selected in exposure mode f. Change shutter speed or select manual exposure mode. (blinks) c (blinks) Optional flash unit that does not support i-TTL flash control attached and set to TTL. Change flash mode setting on optional flash - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 407
Indicator Control View- panel finder Problem Solution - c (blinks) If indicator blinks for 3s after Release shutter. If error O (blinks) persists or appears Camera malfunction. frequently, consult Nikon-authorized service representative. 0 172 68, 71 220 31 - A The x and y Icons These - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 408
Indicator Control Monitor panel Problem Solution 0 No memory card. Camera cannot S detect memory card. Turn camera off and confirm that card is correctly inserted. 31 • Error accessing • Use Nikon- 393 This memory memory card. approved card. card cannot • Check that contacts - be - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 409
Control Monitor panel Problem Solution 0 Failed to update flash unit firmware. Flash cannot be used. Contact a Nikonauthorized - Firmware for flash unit mounted on camera was not updated correctly. Contact a Nikonauthorized service representative. - service representative. Select folder - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 410
Indicator Control Monitor panel Problem Solution • Movies created with other devices can This movie can not be edited. - Out of ink. - Printer is out of ink. Replace ink and select Continue. * See printer manual for more information. 0 - 65 229 * 229 * 229 * 229 * 229 * 229 * n 384 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 411
Digital Camera Type Type Lens mount Effective picture angle Single-lens reflex digital camera Nikon F mount (with AF coupling and AF contacts) Approx. 1.5 × lens focal length (Nikon DX format) Effective pixels Effective pixels 12.3 million Image sensor Image sensor Total pixels Dust-reduction - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 412
Lens Compatible lenses n • DX AF NIKKOR: All functions supported • Type G or D AF NIKKOR: All functions supported (PC Micro-NIKKOR does not support some functions). IX NIKKOR lenses not supported. • Other AF NIKKOR: All functions supported except 3D color matrix metering II. Lenses for F3AF not - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 413
coupling Combined CPU and AI Exposure mode Programmed auto with flexible program (e); shutterpriority auto (f ); aperture-priority auto (g); manual (h) Exposure compensation -5 - +5 EV in increments of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV Exposure bracketing 2-9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV n 387 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 414
Low, or Off Nikon Multi-CAM 3500DX supported Can be selected from 51 or 11 focus points Single-point AF, dynamic-area AF, auto-area AF Focus can be locked by pressing shutter-release button halfway (single-servo AF) or by pressing AE-L/AF-L button Manual pop-up with button release and a Guide - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 415
• Non-TTL auto: Supported flash units include SB-900, SB-800, SB-28, SB-27, and SB-22S • Distance-priority manual: Available with SB-900 hot-shoe with sync and data contacts and safety lock Nikon Creative Lighting Advanced Wireless Lighting supported with built-in System (CLS) flash, SB-900, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 416
with NMEA0183 version 2.01 or 3.01 (requires optional MC-35 GPS adapter cord and cable with D-sub 9-pin connector) Supported languages Supported languages Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 417
not be held liable for damages that may result from any mistakes that this manual may contain. MH-18a quick charger Rated input AC 100-240 V (50/60 Hz) Rated output DC 8.4 V/900 mA Supported batteries Nikon EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion battery Charging time Approx. 2 hours and 15 minutes when - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 418
an industry-wide standard that allows pictures to be printed from print orders stored on the memory card. • Exif version 2.21: The camera 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 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 419
of speed. † If card will be used with card reader or other device, check that device supports 2GB cards. ‡ SDHC compliant. If card will be used with card reader or other device, check that device supports SDHC. Other cards have not been tested. For more details on the above cards, please contact - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 420
Memory Card Capacity The following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on a 4 GB SanDisk Extreme IV (SDCFX4) card at different image quality and size settings. Image quality NEF (RAW), Lossless compressed, 12-bit NEF (RAW), Lossless compressed, 14-bit 3 NEF (RAW), - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 421
1 All figures are approximate. File size varies with scene recorded. 2 Maximum number of exposures that can be stored in memory buffer at ISO 200. Drops if Optimal quality is selected for JPEG compression, ISO sensitivity is set to P or higher, High ISO NR is on when auto ISO sensitivity control is - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 422
1900 shots One EN-EL3e and one EN-EL4a battery (MB-D10): Approximately 2950 shots Eight AA batteries (MB-D10): Approximately 1200 shots • Nikon standard 2 One EN-EL3e battery (camera): Approximately 3000 shots One EN-EL3e battery (MB-D10): Approximately 3000 shots One EN-EL4a battery (MB - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 423
the optional GP-1 GPS unit • Using VR (vibration reduction) mode with VR lenses To ensure that you get the most from rechargeable Nikon EN-EL3e batteries: • Keep the battery contacts clean. Soiled contacts can reduce battery performance. • Use batteries immediately after charging. Batteries will - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 424
(Center-weighted 102, 272 b (Spot 102 e (Programmed auto 106 f (Shutter-priority auto 108 g (Aperture-priority auto 109 h (Manual 111 Q (Help 18, 21 t (Memory buffer 43, 89 L (Preset manual 134, 142 R (Info) button 12, 15 a (Live view) button 48, 58 D switch 39, 278 Numerics 1,005-pixel - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 425
Battery 22, 24, 37, 279, 280, 307 Battery info 307 Battery order 280 Battery pack 279, 280, 307, 352 Beep 275 Black-and-white (Monochrome).... 322 Body cap 5, 26, 355 Border 231, 235 Bracketing 120, 289, 290 Bracketing order 290 Built-in AF-assist illuminator 268 Bulb 112, 114 Burst 186, - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 426
Electronic rangefinder....... 84, 340, 342 Ethernet 227, 352 EV steps for exposure cntrl 270 Exif version 2.21 167, 392 Exp comp/fine tune 270 Exposure 101, 102, 116, 118 Exposure bracketing ....... 120, 289, 290 Exposure compensation 118 Exposure delay mode 278 Exposure indicator 113 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 427
Lossless compressed (Type 70 M M 53, 74, 83, 111 Magenta 138, 323 Manage Picture Control 160 Manual 53, 74, 83, 111 Manual (Exposure mode 111 Manual (Flash cntrl for built-in flash 284 Manual focus 53, 74, 83 Matrix 102 Matrix metering 102 Max. continuous release 276 Maximum aperture 84 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 428
processing 327 NEF (RAW) recording 70 Neutral (Set Picture Control 154 Nikon Transfer 224 No memory card 299 No. of copies (PictBridge [Setup] 217 Playback zoom 218 Predictive 75 Predictive focus tracking 74, 75 Preset manual (White balance 134, 142 Press the shutter-release button all the - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 429
SD card slot 32, 62, 72 SD card slot (Primary slot selection 72 SD memory card 32, 72, 393 Secondary slot function 72 Self-timer 86, 91, 273 Sensitivity 95, 96, 98 Sepia (Monochrome 322 Set Picture Control 154 Setup menu 300 Shade (White balance 134 Shooting data 212, 213, 214 Shooting - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 430
404 - Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 431
- Nikon 25464 | D300S User's Manual - Page 432
No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorization from NIKON CORPORATION. Printed in Europe SB9G01(11) 6MB05711-01
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DIGITAL CAMERA
En
User's Manual