Nikon D300 D300 User's Manual
Nikon D300 - Digital Camera SLR Manual
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Nikon D300 manual content summary:
- Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 1
DIGITAL CAMERA User's Manual En - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 2
i Error Messages ➜ pp. 391-398 If a warning is displayed in the viewfinder or monitor, find the solution here. i Troubleshooting ➜ pp. 383-390 Camera behaving unexpectedly? Find the solution here. A For Your Safety Before using the camera for the first time, read the safety instructions in - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 3
Be sure all items listed here were included with your camera. Memory cards are sold separately. • D300 digital camera (pg. 3) • Body cap (pp. 34, 368) • BM-8 LCD monitor cover (pg. 19) • DK-5 eyepiece cap (pg. 20) • EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion battery with terminal cover (pp. 30, 32) • MH-18a quick - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 4
use to prevent damage to the camera. A This icon marks notes; information that should be read before using the camera. Menu items, options, and messages displayed in the camera trade names mentioned in this manual or the other documentation provided with your Nikon product are trademarks or - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 5
X Introduction s Tutorial d Image Recording Options N 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 iii - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 6
lenses? AF fine tune How do I remove dust from the low-pass Cleaning the low-pass filter protecting the image sensor? filter See page 59 79 146 165 270 327 373 ❚❚ Camera Setup Question How do I focus the viewfinder? How do I keep the monitor from turning off? How do I keep the shutter speed - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 7
the menus in a different language? Can I save menu settings for use on a different D300 camera? Key phrase World time LCD brightness Two-button reset Reset shooting menu Reset custom settings Self-timer delay Beep Reverse indicators Language Save/load settings See page 37, 315 312 182 257 266 280 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 8
size memory card? Can I control how the camera focuses? Autofocus How do I take a lot of photographs quickly? Release mode Can I change the frame advance rate? Shooting speed Can I shoot a self-portrait? Self-timer mode Can I take pictures under low light without the flash? ISO sensitivity - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 9
Question Key phrase See page Can I set both shutter speed and aperture Exposure mode h manually? (manual) 109 Can I make photos brighter or darker? Exposure compensation 114 How do I make a time exposure? Long time-exposures 111 Can I vary exposure or flash level automatically over a - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 10
at once? Delete Can I zoom in on pictures to make sure they're in focus? Playback where the camera focused? Display mode: focus point Can I view photos as they are taken? Image review Is there copy with different colors? Filter effects Can I use the camera to create JPEG copies of NEF (RAW) - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 11
prints? Print set (DPOF) See page 242 244 224 230 231 234 240 ❚❚ Optional Accessories Question What optional flash units (Speedlights) can I use? What lenses can I use? What AC adapters, remote cords, and viewfinder accessories are available for my camera? What memory cards can I use? What - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 12
12 The Command Dials 14 Quick Start Guide 21 Tutorial 23 Camera Menus 24 Using Camera Menus 26 Help ...29 First Steps 30 Charge the Battery 30 Insert the Battery 32 Attach a Lens 34 Basic Setup 36 Insert a Memory Card 39 Format the Memory Card 41 Adjust Viewfinder Focus 43 Basic - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 13
Selection 66 Focus Lock 68 Manual Focus 71 Release Mode 73 Choosing a Release Mode 74 Continuous Mode 76 Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View 79 Self-Timer Mode 89 Mirror up Mode 91 ISO Sensitivity 93 Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually 94 Auto ISO Sensitivity Control 96 xi - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 14
Programmed Auto 104 f: Shutter-Priority Auto 106 g: Aperture-Priority Auto 107 h: Manual 109 Manual 134 Image Enhancement 145 Picture Controls 146 Creating Custom Picture Controls 154 Active D-Lighting 165 Color Space 167 Flash Photography 169 The Built-in Flash 170 Using - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 15
Other Shooting Options 181 Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings 182 Multiple Exposure 184 Interval Timer Photography 189 Non-CPU Lenses 196 Using a GPS Unit 199 More About Playback 203 Full-Frame Playback 204 Photo Information 206 Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback 218 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 16
261 Set Picture Control 261 Manage Picture Control 261 Color Space 261 Active D-Lighting 261 Long Exp. NR (Long Exposure Noise Reduction 262 High ISO NR 263 ISO Sensitivity Settings 263 Live View 263 Multiple Exposure 263 Interval Timer Shooting 263 A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 17
285 d9: Exposure Delay Mode 285 d10: MB-D10 Battery Type 285 d11: Battery Order 287 e: Bracketing/Flash 288 e1: Flash Sync Speed 288 e2: Flash Shutter Speed 290 e3: Flash Cntrl for Built-in Flash 291 e4: Modeling Flash 297 e5: Auto Bracketing Set 297 e6: Auto Bracketing (Mode M 298 xv - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 18
Dials 307 f8: Release Button to Use Dial 308 f9: No Memory Card 309 f10: Reverse Indicators 310 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup 311 Format Memory Card 312 LCD Brightness 312 Clean Image Sensor 313 Lock Mirror up for Cleaning 313 Video Mode 313 HDMI 314 World Time 315 Language 315 Image - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 19
Units (Speedlights 357 Other Accessories 365 Caring for the Camera 372 Storage 372 Cleaning 372 The Low-Pass Filter 373 "Clean Now 373 "Clean at Startup/Shutdown 374 Manual Cleaning 376 Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions 379 Troubleshooting 383 Error Messages 391 Appendix 399 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 20
. In the event of malfunction, the product should be repaired only by a qualified technician. Should the product break open as the result of a fall or other accident, remove the battery and/or AC adapter and then take the product to a Nikon-authorized service center for inspection. xviii - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 21
and store in a cool, dry place. • The battery may be hot immediately after use or when the product has been used on battery power for an extended period. Before removing the battery turn the camera off and allow the battery to cool. • Discontinue use immediately should you notice any changes in the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 22
insulation be other objects could cause burns. damaged and the wires become • Using the flash close to the exposed, take the power cable to subject's eyes could cause a Nikon-authorized service temporary visual impairment. representative for inspection. Particular care should be Failure to - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 23
at any time and without prior notice. • Nikon will not be held liable for any damages resulting from the use of this product. • While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in these manuals is accurate and complete, we would appreciate it were you to bring any errors or omissions - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 24
to another person, erase all data using commercial deletion software, or format the device and then 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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 25
copying or reproduction of unused postage stamps or post cards issued by the government is prohibited. The copying or Nikon brand electronic accessories (including battery chargers, batteries, AC adapters, and flash accessories) certified by Nikon specifically for use with this Nikon digital camera - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 26
: 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 frequently-asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital imaging and photography - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 27
XIntroduction X This chapter covers information you will need to know before using the camera, including the names of camera parts. Overview pg. 2 Getting to Know the Camera pg. 3 Camera Body pg. 3 The Control Panel pg. 8 The Viewfinder Display pg. 10 The Shooting Information Display pg. 12 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 28
purchase of a Nikon single-lens reflex (SLR) X digital camera. Please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly to get the most from the camera, and keep them where they will be read by all those who use the product. D Use Only Nikon Brand Accessories Only Nikon brand accessories certified by - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 29
through the rest of the manual. Camera Body 1 8 9 2 10 3 4 11 12 5 6 13 7 14 1 Release mode dial 75 8 Power switch 44 2 Release mode dial 9 Shutter-release button ...... 51, 52 lock release 75 10 E (exposure compensation) 3 QUAL (image quality/size) button 114 button 57, 60 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 30
Camera Body (Continued) 1 X 2 3 4 6 7 5 8 9 10 13 11 14 12 15 16 1 Built-in flash 171 2 cover 226, 242 9 Video connector 242 10 HDMI connector 244 11 DC-IN connector for optional AC adapter EH-5a or EH-5 365 12 USB connector 226, 232 13 Lens release button 35 14 Focus-mode - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 31
dial 14 3 Depth-of-field preview button 103, 305 4 Fn button .........117, 121, 179, 302 5 Battery-chamber cover 32 6 Battery-chamber cover latch 32 7 Contact cover for optional MB-D10 battery pack 365 8 CPU contacts 9 Mounting index 34 10 Lens mount 72 11 Tripod socket 12 Body cap 368 5 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 32
Camera Body (Continued) X 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 Viewfinder eyepiece 43 7 L (protect) button 221 2 DK-23 viewfinder ? (help) button 29 eyepiece cup 20 R (info) button 12 3 O (delete) button 54, 222 8 W (thumbnail/ - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 33
selector 101 3 A (AE/AF lock) button 68, 69, 306 4 B (AF-ON) button ..........63, 83 5 Main command dial 14 6 Multi selector 26 7 Focus selector lock 66 8 Memory card slot cover 39 9 Memory card access lamp 40, 52 10 AF-area mode selector 64 11 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 34
127 11 Number of exposures remaining 45 Number of shots remaining before memory buffer fills...........77 Capture mode indicator 224 Preset white balance recording indicator 137 Manual lens number 198 12 "K" (appears when memory remains for over 1000 exposures 45 13 Battery indicator 44 8 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 35
lenses 198 PC mode indicator 227 17 Aperture stop indicator 353 18 Flash compensation indicator 176 19 Exposure compensation indicator 114 20 ISO sensitivity indicator 94 Auto ISO sensitivity indicator 96 21 FV lock indicator 179 22 "Clock not set 28 MB-D10 battery indicator ......... 365 29 - Nikon D300 | D300 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 D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 37
94 display 111 Exposure compensation display 114 20 Auto ISO sensitivity indicator 96 21 "K" (appears when memory remains for over 1000 exposures 45 D No Battery When the battery is totally exhausted or no battery is inserted, the display in the viewfinder will dim. This is normal - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 38
speed, aperture, the number of exposures X remaining, buffer capacity, and AF-area mode, is displayed in the monitor when the R button is pressed. To clear shooting information from the monitor, press the R R button button again or press the shutter-release button halfway. At default settings - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 39
aperture remaining 77 (non-CPU lenses 198 Manual lens number 198 8 Camera battery indicator 44 31 White balance 127 9 MB-D10 battery type display....... 287 MB-D10 battery indicator 286 10 Shooting menu bank 255 11 Custom settings bank 266 12 Picture Control indicator 149 White balance - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 40
Dials The main- and sub-command dials are used alone or in combination with other controls to adjust a variety of settings. X M button Flash mode/ Flash compensation QUAL button Image quality/size WB button White balance ISO button ISO sensitivity Fn button Bracketing Sub-command dial E button - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 41
X (pg. 57) + QUAL button Main command dial Control panel Choose an image size (pg. 60) + QUAL button Sub-command dial Control panel ❚❚ ISO Sensitivity Press the ISO button and rotate the main command dial. Set ISO sensitivity (pg. 94) + ISO button Main command dial Control panel 15 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 42
the exposure mode (pg. 102) + I button Main command dial Use the command dials to adjust exposure. Choose a combination of aperture and shutter speed (exposure mode P; pg. 105) + Exposure mode e Main command dial Choose a shutter speed (exposure mode S or M; pp. + 106, 110) Choose an - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 43
f4 ([Assign FUNC. button], pg. 302), the Fn button and command dials can be used to select shutter speed and aperture in steps of 1 EV, to choose pre-specified lens data for non-CPU lenses, or to select dynamic-area AF. A The Depth-of-Field Preview and AE-L/AF-L Buttons Depending on the options - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 44
temperature (pg. 133), or choose a white WB button balance preset (pg. 143) + Sub-command dial Control panel ❚❚ Flash Settings Press the M button and rotate the command dials. Choose flash mode (pg. 171) + Adjust flash compensation (pg. 176) M button Main command dial + Control panel - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 45
Attaching the AN-D300 Camera Strap Attach the camera strap securely to the two eyelets on the camera body as shown below. X 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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 46
The DK-23 Viewfinder Eyepiece Cup Before attaching the DK-5 viewfinder eyepiece cap and other viewfinder X accessories (pp. 89, 366), remove the DK-23 viewfinder eyepiece cup by placing your fingers underneath the flanges on either side and sliding it off as - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 47
Start Guide Follow these steps for a quick start with the D300. 1 Charge the battery (pg. 30). X 2 Insert the battery (pg. 32). 3 Attach a lens (pg. 34). 4 Insert a memory card (pg. 39). Front 5 Turn the camera on (pg. 44). For information on choosing a language and setting the time and date - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 48
size Image quality Battery level Number of exposures remaining White balance Control panel ISO sensitivity Viewfinder display 7 Select single-servo autofocus (pp. 49, 62). Rotate the focus-mode selector to S (single-servo autofocus). 8 Focus and shoot (pp. 51, 52). Press the shutter-release - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 49
to ready the camera for use, and how to take your first pictures and play them back. Camera Menus pg. 24 Using Camera Menus pg. 26 Help ...pg. 29 First Steps pg. 30 Charge the Battery pg. 30 Insert the Battery pg. 32 Attach a Lens pg. 34 Basic Setup pg. 36 Insert a Memory Card pg. 39 Format - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 50
Menus Most shooting, playback, and setup options can be accessed from the camera menus. To view the menus, press the G button. s G button Tabs Choose from playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, retouch, and My menus (see following page). Slider shows position in current menu. Q If "Q" icon - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 51
Settings Personalize camera settings (pg. 264). B Setup Format memory cards and perform basic camera setup (pg. 311). N Retouch Create retouched copies of existing photographs (pg. 329). Create a menu of custom options (pg. 344). If O My Menu desired, a menu of recently-used settings can - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 52
Using Camera Menus ❚❚ Menu Controls The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the menus. Select s Move cursor up highlighted item Select Cancel and return highlighted item to previous menu or display sub- menu Move cursor - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 53
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 D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 54
pressing J, there are some cases in which selection can only be made by pressing J. • To exit the menus and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway (pg. 52). 28 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 55
Help If a Q icon is displayed at the bottom left corner of the monitor, help can be displayed by pressing the L (Q) button. A description of the currently selected option or menu will be displayed while the button s is pressed. Press 1 or 3 to scroll through the display. L button 29 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 56
First Steps Charge the Battery The D300 is powered by an EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion battery s (supplied). The EN-EL3e is not fully charged at shipment. 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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 57
3 Insert the battery. Insert the battery into the charger. The CHARGE lamp will blink while the battery charges. s 4 Remove the battery when charging is complete. Charging is complete when the CHARGE lamp stops blinking. Remove the battery and unplug the charger. 31 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 58
cover on the bottom of the camera. 3 Insert the battery. Insert the battery as shown at right. 4 Close the battery-chamber cover. ❚❚ Removing the Battery Before removing the battery, turn the camera off. To prevent short-circuits, replace the terminal cover when the battery is not in use. 32 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 59
and follow the warnings and cautions on pages xviii-xx and 379-382 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) or above 40°C (104°F). Charge indoors at ambient temperatures in - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 60
body, position Mounting index the lens in the camera's bayonet mount. Being careful not to press the lens-release button, rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place. If the lens is equipped with an A-M or M/A-M switch, select A (autofocus) or M/ A (autofocus with manual - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 61
release button while turning the lens clockwise. After removing the lens, replace the lens caps and camera body cap. D CPU Lenses with Aperture Rings In the case of CPU lenses equipped with an aperture ring (pg. 352), lock aperture at the minimum setting (highest f-number). See the lens manual - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 62
highlighted the first time menus are displayed. Choose a language and set the time and date. s 1 Turn the camera on. Power switch 2 Select [Language]. Press G to display the camera menus, then select [Language] in the setup menu. For information on using menus, see "Using Camera Menus" (pg. 26 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 63
and press J. 6 Turn daylight saving time on or off. Daylight saving time options will be displayed. Daylight saving time is off by default; if daylight saving time is in effect in the local time zone, press 1 to highlight [On] and press J. 7 Set the date and time. The dialog shown at right will be - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 64
8 Set date format. Press 1 or 3 to choose the order in which the year, month, and day will be displayed and s press J. 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 independent, rechargeable - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 65
insert and format a memory card. 1 Turn the camera off. Power switch s Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing memory cards. 2 Open the card slot cover. Unlatch the card slot cover (q) and open the card slot (w). 3 Insert the memory card. Insert the memory card with the front - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 66
access lamp is off and turn the camera off. Access lamp 2 Remove the memory card. Open the memory card slot cover and press the eject button (q) to partially eject the card (w). The memory card can then be removed by hand. Do not push on the memory card while pressing the eject button. Failure to - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 67
C will appear in the shutter-speed displays in the control panel and viewfinder. To exit without formatting the memory card, press any button other than the Q (I and O) buttons. A See Also See page 312 for information on formatting memory cards using the [Format memory card] option in the setup - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 68
. s 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. • Memory cards that have been - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 69
in focus before shooting. 1 Turn the camera on. Power switch s Remove the lens cap and turn the camera on. 2 Focus the viewfinder. Rotate frame a highcontrast subject in the center focus point and focus using autofocus. With the camera in focus, rotate the diopter control until the subject is - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 70
Viewfinder Description L - Battery fully charged. K - J - Battery partially discharged. I - H d Low battery. Prepare to charge battery or ready spare battery. H d Shutter release disabled. Charge or (blinks) (blinks) exchange battery. * No icon displayed when camera is powered by - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 71
zero, A will flash in the exposure-count displays while the shutter-speed displays will show a blinking n or j. A Large-Capacity Memory Cards When enough memory remains on the memory card to record a thousand or more pictures at current settings, the number of exposures remaining will be - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 72
meters on The length of time before the exposure meters turn off automatically can be adjusted using Custom Setting c2 ([Auto meter-off delay], pg. 279). A Camera Off Display If the camera is turned off with a battery and memory card inserted, the frame count and number of exposures remaining - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 73
in size. 60 ISO sensitivity 200 ISO sensitivity (digital equivalent of film speed) set to ISO 200. 94 White balance v (Auto) White balance is adjusted automatically for natural colors under most types of lighting. 126 Exposure mode e (Programmed auto) Camera automatically adjusts shutter - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 74
At this setting, the camera will take one photograph each time the shutter-release button is pressed. Release mode dial 4 Choose single-point AF. AF-area mode Rotate the AF-area mode selector selector until it clicks into place pointing to K (single-point AF). At this setting, the user can - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 75
point when the shutter- release button is pressed halfway. Pictures can only be taken when the camera is in focus. 6 Choose matrix metering. Metering selector Rotate the metering selector to Y (matrix metering). Matrix metering uses information from the 1,005-segment RGB sensor to ensure optimal - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 76
the handgrip in your right hand and cradle the camera body or lens with your left. Keep your elbows propped s lightly against your torso for support and place one foot half a pace ahead of the other to keep you upper body stable. Hold the camera as shown at right when framing photographs in portrait - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 77
Viewfinder display Description I Subject in focus. I Camera unable to focus on subject in focus (blinks) point using autofocus. While the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, focus will lock and the number of exposures that can be stored in the memory buffer ("t"; pg. 77) will be shown - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 78
to shoot. Smoothly press the shutter- s release-button the rest of the way down to take the picture. Access lamp While the photograph is being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the card slot cover will light. Do not eject the memory card, turn the camera off, or remove or - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 79
additional pictures. Additional pictures can be displayed by pressing 4 or 2. To view additional information on the current photograph, press 1 and 3 (pg. 206). Highlights 100--1 Select R, G, B To end playback and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. A Image Review - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 80
the O button. A confirmation dialog will be displayed. O button Press the O button again to delete the image and return to playback. To exit without deleting the picture, press K. A [Delete] To delete multiple images, use the [Delete] option in the playback menu (pg. 248). 54 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 81
dImage Recording Options d This section describes how to choose image quality and size. Image Quality pg. 56 Image Size pg. 60 55 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 82
Image Quality The D300 supports the following image quality options. Option File type Description RAW data from the image sensor are saved directly to the memory card in Nikon Electronic d NEF (RAW) Format (NEF). Use with images that will be transferred to a computer for printing or NEF - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 83
[NEF (RAW) + JPEG basic] are viewed on the camera, only the JPEG image will be displayed. When photographs taken at these settings are deleted, both NEF and JPEG images will be deleted. A The Image Quality Menu Image quality can also be adjusted using the [Image quality] option in the shooting menu - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 84
] item in the shooting menu offers the following compression options for NEF (RAW) images: Option Description Lossless NEF images are compressed using a reversible N compressed algorithm, reducing file size by about 20-40% (default) with no effect on image quality. NEF images are compressed - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 85
at a bit-depth of 14 bits, r 14-bit producing files roughly 1.3 times larger than 12-bit files but increasing the color data recorded. Maximum frame advance (RAW) Images Note that the option selected for image size does not affect the size of NEF (RAW) images. When opened in ViewNX version - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 86
resolution increases. Image size can be set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the sub-command dial until the desired option is displayed in the control panel. QUAL button Sub-command dial Control panel A The Image Size Menu Image size can also be adjusted using the [Image size] option in - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 87
NFocus - Controlling How the Camera Focuses This section describes the options that control how your camera focuses. N Focus Mode pg. 62 AF-Area Mode pg. 64 Focus Point Selection pg. 66 Focus Lock pg. 68 Manual Focus pg. 71 61 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 88
focus as necessary. At default settings, shutter can be released whether or not subject is in focus (release priority). Camera does not focus automatically; focus must be M Manual (pg. 71) adjusted manually using the lens focusing ring. If maximum aperture of lens is f/5.6 or faster, viewfinder - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 89
selection], pg. 267). For information on using release priority in single-servo AF, see Custom Setting a2 ([AF-S priority selection], pg. 268). For information on preventing the camera from focusing when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, see Custom Setting a5 ([AF activation], pg. 271 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 90
. • 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 used, camera can H distinguish human subjects from Auto-area background for improved subject - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 91
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 a3 ([Dynamic AF area], pg. 269). For information on adjusting how long the camera waits before refocusing when an object moves in - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 92
when auto-area AF is selected). To select the focus point manually: 1 Rotate the focus selector lock to ●. This allows the multi selector to be used to select the focus point. Focus selector lock 2 Select the focus point. Use the multi selector to select the focus point. At default settings, the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 93
For information on choosing the number of focus points that can be selected using the multi selector, see Custom Setting a8 ([AF point selection], pg. 272). For information on changing the role of the multi selector center button, see Custom Setting f1 ([Multi selector center button], pg. 300). N 67 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 94
be in a focus point in the final composition. It can also be used when the autofocus system is unable to focus (pg. 70). 1 Focus. N Position the subject in the selected focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway to initiate focus. 2 Check that the in-focus indicator (I) appears - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 95
the photograph and shoot. Focus will remain locked between shots as long as the shutter-release button is kept pressed halfway, allowing several photographs in succession to be taken at the same focus setting. Focus will also remain locked between shots while the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 96
under these conditions, or the in-focus indicator (●) may be 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 (pg. 71) or use focus lock (pg. 68) to focus on another subject at the same distance - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 97
focus. Photographs can be taken at any time, even when the image is not in focus. A A-M Selection/Autofocus with Manual Priority If the lens supports A-M selection, set the lens A-M switch to M (manual). If the lens supports M/A (autofocus with manual override, MF priority) or A/M (autofocus with - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 98
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 selected focus point, press the shutter-release button halfway and N rotate the lens focusing ring - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 99
- Single Frame, Continuous, Live View, Self-Timer, or Mirror Up Release mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time, in a continuous sequence, with the view through the lens displayed in the monitor, with a timed shutter-release k delay, or with the mirror raised to enhance - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 100
camera movement can result in blurred photographs (pg. 91). 1 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, remaining settings other than Custom Setting d4 at default values, and memory remaining - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 101
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 75 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 102
and turn the release mode dial to CH or CL. k Release mode dial 2 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. While the shutter-release button is pressed all the way down, pictures will be taken at up to 6 fps in continuous high speed mode, or at the frame rate selected for Custom Setting d4 ([CL mode - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 103
battery MB-D10 battery pack with AA-size batteries 4 Maximum frame advance rate 1 6 fps 2 8 fps 3 6 fps 2 8 fps 3 8 fps 3 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 k values, and memory - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 104
. If the camera is switched off while data remain in the buffer, the power will not turn off until all k images in the buffer have been recorded. If the battery is exhausted while images remain in the buffer, the shutter release will be disabled and the images transferred to the memory card. A See - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 105
which focus is adjusted based on data from a special focusing sensor. When [Tripod] is selected in live view, however, the camera uses contrast-detect autofocus, in which the camera analyses the data from the image sensor and adjusts focus to produce the greatest contrast. Contrast-detect autofocus - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 106
in the camera monitor instead of the viewfinder (for improved focus, focus on your subject by pressing the shutter-release button halfway, then press it the rest of the way down to start live view). To exit without taking a picture, rotate the release mode dial to another setting or press - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 107
in the bottom right corner of the display. Use the multi selector to scroll within the AF area brackets. 5 Focus. Autofocus (focus mode S or C): Press the shutter-release button halfway or press the B button. The camera will focus normally and set exposure. Note that the mirror will click back - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 108
to reset focus and exposure and take the picture. If continuous high speed or continuous low speed is selected for [Release mode], the monitor will turn off while the shutter-release button is pressed. k D No Picture After shooting, play the picture back in the monitor to ensure that the photograph - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 109
80. 4 Frame a picture in the viewfinder. B button Frame a picture in the viewfinder and select a focus point using the multi selector, then press the B button. The camera will focus normally and set exposure. Note that the camera can NOT be focused by pressing the shutter-release button halfway - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 110
not continue to adjust focus while the B button is pressed in continuous-servo autofocus mode. In both single-servo and continuous-servo autofocus modes, the shutter can be released even when the camera is not in focus. Manual focus (focus mode M; pg. 71): Use zoom for precise focus. 84 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 111
display. Use the multi selector to scroll to areas of the frame not visible in the monitor. k Press J to exit zoom. 7 Take the picture. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to take the picture. If continuous high speed or continuous low speed is selected for [Release mode - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 112
camera is unable to focus. Use an AF-S lens. The desired results may not be achieved with other lenses or teleconverters. A Remote Cords If the shutter-release remote cord shutter-release button is pressed all the way down without focusing, focus will not be adjusted before the picture is taken. 86 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 113
's internal circuitry. Live view shooting ends automatically if the lens is removed. Live view mode can be used for up to an hour. 27s Note, however, that when used in live view mode for extended periods, the camera may become k noticeably warm and the temperature of its internal circuits - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 114
monitor brightness has no effect on pictures taken in live view mode). To return to live view, release the K button. A HDMI When the camera is attached to an HDMI video device, the camera monitor will turn off and the video device will display the view through the lens as shown at right. Exit 88 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 115
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 turn the release mode dial - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 116
release mode dial to another setting. AA In self-timer mode, a shutter speed of A is equivalent to approximately 1/10 s. A See Also For information on changing the timer duration, see Custom Setting c3 ([Self-timer delay], pg. 280). For information on setting a beep to sound during the timer count - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 117
confirmed in the viewfinder while mirror is raised. 3 Take a picture. Press the shutter-release button all the way down again to take a picture. To prevent blurring caused by camera movement, press the shutter-release button smoothly, or use an optional remote cord (pg. 369). The mirror lowers when - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 118
k 92 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 119
is the digital equivalent of film speed. The higher the ISO sensitivity, the less light needed to make an exposure, allowing higher shutter speeds or smaller apertures. This chapter describes how to set ISO sensitivity manually and automatically. Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually pg. 94 S Auto ISO - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 120
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 0.3-1 EV below ISO 200 and 0.3-1 EV above ISO 3200 are also available for special situations. ISO sensitivity can be adjusted by pressing the ISO - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 121
0.3-1 EV over ISO 3200 (ISO 4000-6400 equivalent). Pictures taken at these settings are more likely to be subject to noise and color distortion. A LO 0.3-LO 1 The settings [LO 0.3] through [LO 1] correspond to ISO sensitivities 0.3- 1 EV below ISO 200 (ISO 160-100 equivalent). Use for larger - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 122
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]. When [On] is selected, the control panel and viewfinder show ISO-AUTO. When sensitivity is altered from the value selected by the user - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 123
A Auto ISO Sensitivity Control Noise is more likely at higher sensitivities. Use the [High ISO NR] option in the shooting menu to reduce noise (see page 263). When a flash is used, the value selected for [Minimum shutter speed] is ignored in favor of the option selected for Custom Setting e1 ([Flash - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 124
S 98 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 125
Controlling How the Camera Sets Exposure This section describes the options available to control exposure, including metering, exposure mode, exposure lock, exposure compensation, and bracketing. Metering pg. 100 Exposure Mode pg. 102 e: Programmed Auto pg. 104 Z f: Shutter-Priority Auto pg. 106 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 126
). Classic meter for portraits. 1 Center weight area 2 Camera meters circle 3 mm (0.12 in.) in diameter (approximately 2% of frame). Circle is centered on current focus point, making it possible to meter off- b center subjects (if non-CPU lens is used Spot or if Auto-area AF is in effect (pg - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 127
of non-CPU lens are specified using [Non-CPU lens data] item in setup menu (see page 197; center-weighted metering is used if focal length or aperture is not specified). A See Also For information on choosing the size of the area assigned the greatest weight in center-weighted metering, see Custom - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 128
is little time to adjust camera settings. Shutter-priority User chooses shutter speed; camera selects f auto aperture for best results. Use to freeze or blur (pg. 106) motion. Z Apertureg priority auto (pg. 107) User chooses aperture; camera selects shutter speed for best results. Use to blur - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 129
information on auto ISO sensitivity control. For information on using the [Long exp. NR] option in the shooting menu for reducing noise at slow shutter speeds, see page 262. For information on choosing the size of the increments available for shutter speed and aperture, see Custom Setting b2 ([EV - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 130
situations. This mode is recommended for snapshots and other situations in which you want to leave the camera in charge of shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in programmed auto: 1 Select exposure mode e. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until e is displayed in the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 131
appears in the control panel. To restore default shutter speed and aperture settings, rotate the command dial until the asterisk is no longer displayed, choose another mode, or turn the camera off. Z Shutter speed: 1/2,500 s Aperture: f/2.8 Shutter speed: 1/60 s Aperture: f/22 A See Also See page - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 132
the desired shutter speed. Shutter speed can be set to "p" or to values between 30 s (q) and 1/8,000 s (o). Use slow shutter speeds to suggest motion by blurring moving objects, high shutter speeds to "freeze" motion. Fast shutter speed (1/1,600 s) Slow shutter speed (1/6 s) 3 Frame a photograph - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 133
aperture while the camera automatically selects the shutter speed that will produce the optimal exposure. To take photographs in aperture-priority auto: 1 Select from values between the minimum Sub-command dial and maximum for the lens. Small apertures (high f-numbers) increase depth of field (see - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 134
3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Z A Non-CPU Lenses If the maximum aperture of the lens has been specified using the [Non-CPU lens data] item in setup menu (pg. 197) when a non-CPU lens is attached, the current f-number will be displayed in the viewfinder and control panel, rounded to the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 135
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. Press the I button and rotate the main command dial until h is displayed in the viewfinder and control panel. I button Main command dial Z 109 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 136
desired exposure is achieved. Sub-command dial Setting Z aperture Setting shutter speed Main command dial 3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. Shutter speed: 1/250 s Aperture: f/8 A AF Micro Nikkor Lenses Provided that an external exposure meter is used, the exposure ratio need only be - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 137
over 2 EV A Long Time-Exposures At a shutter speed of A, the shutter will remain open while the shutter-release button is held down. Use for long time-exposure photographs of moving lights, the stars, night scenery, or fireworks. Nikon recommends Z using a fully-charged EN-EL3e battery or an - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 138
. 100). Matrix metering will not produce the desired results with autoexposure lock. If using center-weighted metering, select the center focus point with the multi selector (pg. 66). Z 2 Lock exposure. Shutter-release Position the subject in the selected button focus point and press the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 139
for center-weighted metering is an 8-mm circle in the center of the viewfinder). A Adjusting Shutter Speed and Aperture While exposure lock is in effect, the following settings can be changed without altering the metered value for exposure: Exposure mode e f g Settings Shutter speed and aperture - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 140
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 electronic analog exposure display is affected; shutter speed and aperture do not change. - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 141
icon will be displayed in the control panel and viewfinder after you release the E button. The current value for exposure compensation can be confirmed camera is turned off. A See Also For information on choosing the size of the increments available for exposure compensation, see Custom Setting - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 142
to set exposure and there is not enough time to check results and adjust settings with each shot. Z In white balance bracketing (pg. 121), the camera creates multiple images each time the shutter is released, each with a different white balance adjustment. Only one shot is required to complete the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 143
1 Select flash or exposure bracketing. Choose the type of bracketing to be performed using Custom Setting e5 ([Auto bracketing set], pg. 297). Choose [AE & flash] to vary both exposure and flash level (the default setting), [AE only] to vary only exposure, or [Flash only] to vary only flash - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 144
, 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 Z increment of 1/3 EV are listed below. Control - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 145
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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 146
next time the shutter-release button is pressed. If the memory card fills before all shots in the sequence have been taken, shooting can be resumed from the next shot in the sequence after the memory card has been replaced or shots have been deleted to make room on the memory card. If the camera is - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 147
❚❚ White Balance Bracketing 1 Select white balance bracketing. Choose [WB bracketing] for Custom Setting e5 [Auto bracketing set] (pg. 297). 2 Choose the number of shots. Pressing the Fn button, rotate the main command dial to choose the number of shots in the bracketing - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 148
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 D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 149
fine-tuning. If the number of shots in the bracketing program is greater than the number of exposures remaining, the exposure count displays in the control panel and viewfinder will flash and the shutter release will be disabled. Shooting can begin when a Z new memory card is inserted. 123 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 150
self-timer mode (pg. 89), the number of copies specified in the whitebalance program will be created each time the shutter is released. If the camera is turned off while the memory card access lamp is lit, the camera will power off only after all photographs in the sequence have been recorded. 124 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 151
with the result that white objects appear white whether seen in the shade, direct sunlight, or under incandescent lighting. Unlike the film used in film cameras, digital cameras can mimic this adjustment by processing images according to the color of the light source. This is known as "white balance - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 152
(K) Description White balance is adjusted automatically using color temperature measured by image v Auto (default) 3,500- 8,000* sensor and 1,005-segment RGB sensor. For best results, use type G or D lens. If built-in or optional flash is used, white balance reflects conditions in effect - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 153
color temperature from list 10,000 of values (pg. 133). Use subject, light source, or existing L Preset manual - photograph as reference for white balance (pg. 134). * All values are approximate. Fine-tuning set to 0. Auto white balance is recommended with most light sources. If the desired - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 154
Auto white balance may not produce the desired results with large studio flash units. Choose a color temperature, use preset white balance, or set white balance to [Flash] and use Setting e5 ([Auto bracketing set], pg. 297), the camera will create several images each time the shutter is released. - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 155
introduce a deliberate color cast into an image. White balance is fine tuned using the [White balance] option in the shooting menu or by pressing the WB If an option other than [Fluorescent], [Choose color temp.], or [Preset manual] is selected, proceed to Step 2. If [Fluorescent] is selected, - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 156
2 Fine tune white balance. Use the multi selector to fine- tune white balance. White balance can Amber (A) r Increase magenta Increase blue Magenta (M) Increase amber 3 Press J. Press J to save settings and return to the shooting menu. If white balance has been fine-tuned on the A-B axis, a - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 157
For example, moving the cursor to B (blue) when a "warm" setting such as J (incandescent) is selected for white balance will make photographs temperature that takes such variation into account, and as such is the unit used in color-temperature compensation filters. E.g.: • 4000 K-3000 K (a difference - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 158
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 (pg. 130; to fine-tune white balance when K or L is selected, use the shooting menu as described on page 129). Six settings in both directions are available; each - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 159
results will not be obtained with flash or fluorescent lighting. Choose N ([Flash]) or I ([Fluorescent]) for these sources. With other light sources, take a test shot to determine if the selected value is appropriate. A The White Balance Menu Color temperature can also be selected in the white - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 160
for setting preset white balance: Method Description Direct measurement Neutral gray or white object is placed under lighting that will be used in final photograph and white balance is measured by camera (pg. 136). Copy from existing White balance is copied from photo on memory photograph card - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 161
camera (pg. 139). Store values copied r from images on memory card (pg. 140). A White Balance Presets Changes to white balance presets apply to all shooting menu banks (pg. 255). A confirmation dialog will be displayed if the user - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 162
gray panel can be used as a reference object. Note that exposure is automatically increased by 1 EV when measuring white balance; in exposure mode h, adjust exposure so that the electronic analog exposure displays shows ±0 (pg. 111). 2 Set white balance to L ([Preset manual]). Press the WB button - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 163
. At default settings, the displays will flash for about six seconds. Control panel Viewfinder 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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 164
, direct measurement mode will end in the time selected for Custom Setting c2 ([Auto meter-off delay], pg. 279). The default setting is six seconds. A Preset d-0 The new value for white balance will be stored in preset d-0, automatically replacing the previous value for this preset (no confirmation - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 165
the steps below to copy a measured value for white balance from d-0 to any of the other presets (d-1-d-4). 1 Select L ([Preset manual]). Highlight [Preset manual] in the white balance menu (pg. 126) and press 2. 2 Select a destination. Highlight the destination preset (d-1 to d-4) and press the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 166
steps below to copy a value for white balance from a photograph on the memory card 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 (pg. 126) and press 2. 2 Select - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 167
4 Highlight a source image. Highlight the source image. To view the highlighted image full frame, press the X button. 5 Copy white balance. Press the center of the multi selector to copy the white balance value for the highlighted photograph to the selected preset. If the highlighted photograph has - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 168
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 ) r without completing the next step, press J instead of pressing the center of the multi selector. 3 Select [Set]. Highlight [Set] and press - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 169
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 D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 170
Follow 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 (pg. 126) and press 2. 2 Select a preset. Highlight the desired preset and press the center of - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 171
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 pg. 146 Creating Custom Picture Controls pg. 154 Active D-Lighting pg. 165 Color - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 172
will. Custom Picture Controls can also be saved to the memory card for use in compatible software, and software-created Picture Controls can be loaded into the camera. Any given set of Picture Controls will produce nearly the same results on all cameras that support the Nikon Picture Control system - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 173
saved to the memory card for use in ViewNX version 1.2.0 or later and other compatible software, or software-created custom Picture Controls can be loaded into the camera. • Manage custom Picture Controls (pg. 161): Rename or delete custom Picture Controls. J A Nikon Picture Controls Versus Custom - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 174
Selecting Nikon Picture Controls The camera offers four preset Nikon Picture Controls. Choose a Picture Control Picture Control 1 Select [Set Picture Control]. In the shooting menu (pg. 254), J highlight [Set Picture Control] and press 2. 2 Select a Picture Control. Highlight the desired Picture - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 175
(only contrast is displayed when [Monochrome] is selected). To select a different Picture Control, press 1 or 3, then press 2 to display Picture Control options and press J. A The Picture Control Indicator The current Picture Control is shown in the shooting information display when the R button is - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 176
Nikon or custom Picture Controls can be modified to suit the scene or the user's creative intent. Choose a balanced combination of settings using [Quick adjust], or make manual adjustments to individual settings. 1 Select a Picture Control. Highlight the desired Picture Control in the [Set Picture - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 177
the value, the greater Manual adjustments (all Picture Controls) the sharpening). Select Manual adjustments Filter effects Simulate the effect of color filters on monochrome photographs. Choose from [Off ] (the default setting), yellow, orange, red, and green (pg. 153). Choose the tint used - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 178
. 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 position of the subject in the frame. Use a type G or D lens for best results. The icons for Picture Controls that use auto - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 179
red more contrast than orange. G Green Softens skin tones. Can be used for portraits. Note that the effects achieved with [Filter effects] are more (black-and-white) is selected. A Custom Picture Controls J The options available with custom Picture Controls are the same as those on which the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 180
Creating Custom Picture Controls The Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the camera can be modified and saved as custom Picture Controls. 1 Select [Manage Picture Control]. In the shooting menu (pg. 254), highlight [Manage Picture Control] and press 2. 2 Select [Save/edit]. Highlight [Save/edit] - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 181
a copy of the highlighted Picture Control without further modification. 4 Edit the selected Picture Control. See page 151 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. J Choose - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 182
default, new Picture Controls are named by adding a two-digit number (assigned automatically) to the name of the existing Picture Control. Picture Control will appear in the Picture Control list. Custom Picture Controls can be renamed at any time using the [Rename] option in the [Manage Picture - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 183
based on [Monochrome] have [Filter effects] and [Toning] options in place of [Saturation] and [Hue] controls. A The Original Picture Control Icon The Nikon Picture Control on which the custom Picture Control is based is indicated by an icon in the top right corner of the edit display. Original - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 184
2 version 2.1.0 or later 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 card to be used in compatible cameras and software. ❚❚ Copying Custom Picture Controls to the Camera 1 Select [Load/save]. In the [Manage - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 185
. Choose a destination for the custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 5 Name the Picture Control. Name the Picture Control as described on page 156. The new Picture Control will appear in the Picture Control list and can be renamed at any time using the [Rename] option in the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 186
slot will be overwritten. A Saving Custom Picture Controls Up to 99 custom Picture Controls can be stored on the memory card at any one time. The memory card can only be used to store user-created custom Picture Controls. The Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the camera can not be copied to the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 187
the steps below to rename or delete custom Picture Controls. ❚❚ Renaming Custom Picture Controls 1 Select [Rename]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Rename] and press 2. 2 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 3 Rename the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 188
and press 2. 2 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2. 3 Select [Yes]. Highlight [Yes] and press J to delete the selected Picture Control. J A Nikon Picture Controls The Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the camera ([Standard], [Neutral], [Vivid - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 189
❚❚ Deleting Custom Picture Controls from the Memory Card 1 Select [Load/save]. In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Load/save] and press 2. 2 Select [Delete from card]. Highlight [Delete from card] and press 2. J 163 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 190
3 Select a Picture Control. Highlight a custom Picture Control (slot1 through 99) and either; • press 2 to view current Picture Control settings, or • press J to display confirmation dialog shown at right. 4 Select [Yes]. J Highlight [Yes] and press J to delete the selected Picture Control. - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 191
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. Active D-Lighting off Active D-Lighting - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 192
Active D-Lighting When Active D-Lighting is on, the capacity of the memory buffer drops and additional time is required to record images (pg. 406). Matrix metering is from being underexposed. The [Brightness] and [Contrast] Picture Control settings (pg. 151) can not be adjusted while active - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 193
for color reproduction. Choose a color space according to how photographs will be processed on leaving the camera. Option Description W sRGB (default) Choose for photographs that will be printed or used "as is," with no further modification. This color space is capable of expressing a wider - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 194
printing or other commercial print services. Adobe RGB photographs can also be printed using these options, but colors will not be as vivid. JPEG photographs taken in the Adobe RGB color space are Exif 2.21 and DCF 2.0 compliant; applications and printers that support Exif 2.21 and DCF 2.0 will - Nikon D300 | D300 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 pg. 170 Using the Built-in Flash pg. 171 Flash Modes pg. 174 Flash Compensation pg. 176 FV Lock pg. 178 l 169 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 196
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, which uses monitor pre- lenses by providing lens data (focal length and maximum aperture; see pg. 196). Not available when spot metering is used. Standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 197
-in Flash Follow these steps when using the built-in flash. 1 Choose a metering method (pg. 100). 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 spot metering - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 198
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 Set automatically 104 f Value selected by user (1/250 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 199
lens hoods to prevent shadows. The flash has a minimum range of 60 cm (2 ft.) and can not be used in the macro range of macro zoom lenses. If the flash fires in continuous release mode (pg. 76), only one picture will be taken each time the shutter-release button is pressed. l The shutter release - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 200
is recommended for most situations. In programmed auto and aperture-priority auto modes, Front-curtain sync shutter speed will automatically be set to values between 1/250 and 1/60 s (1/8,000 to 1/60 s when an optional flash unit is used with Auto FP High-Speed Sync) (pg. 357). Red-eye reduction - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 201
Flash mode Description In shutter-priority auto or manual exposure mode, flash fires just before the shutter closes. Use to create effect of a stream of light behind moving objects. In programmed auto and aperture-priority auto, slow Rear-curtain sync rear-curtain sync is used to capture both - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 202
Flash Compensation Flash compensation is used to alter flash output by from -3EV to +1EV in At values other than ±0, a Y icon will be displayed in the control panel and viewfinder after you release the Y button. The current value for flash compensation can be confirmed by pressing the Y l button. - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 203
A Optional Flash Units Flash compensation is also available with optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 flash units. A See Also For information on choosing the size of the increments available when setting flash compensation, see Custom Setting b3 ([Exp comp/fine tune], pg. 275). l 177 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 204
in the center of the frame. Flash output is adjusted automatically for any changes in ISO sensitivity and aperture. To use FV lock: 1 Assign FV lock to the Fn button. Select [FV lock] for Custom Setting f4 ([Assign FUNC. button] > [FUNC. button press], pg. 302). 2 Press the flash pop-up button - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 205
button 5 Recompose the photograph. 6 Take the photograph. l Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to shoot. If desired, additional pictures can be taken without releasing FV lock. 7 Release FV lock. Press the Fn button to release FV lock. Confirm that the FV lock icons (e) are - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 206
-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 flash units (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 - Nikon D300 | D300 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........ pg. 182 Multiple Exposure pg. 184 Interval Timer Photography pg. 189 Non-CPU - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 208
are marked by a green dot). The control panel turns off briefly while settings are reset. QUAL button E button Option Focus point Exposure mode Flexible program Exposure compensation AE hold Default Center Programmed auto Off Off Off 1 Option Bracketing Flash mode Flash compensation FV lock - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 209
currently selected using the [Shooting menu bank] option will be reset (pg. 255). Settings in the remaining banks are unaffected. Option Image quality Image size Default JPEG Normal Large Option White balance ISO sensitivity * Fine-tuning off. Default Auto * 200 If the current Picture Control - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 210
make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor. ❚❚ Creating a Multiple Exposure Note that at default settings, Times For an interval between exposures of more than 30 s, select [On] for the [Image review] (pg. 251) option in the playback menu and extend the monitor-off delay using Custom Setting - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 211
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 Description On (default) Gain adjusted according to number of - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 212
a photograph, focus, and shoot. In continuous high-speed and continuous low- speed release modes (pg. 74), the camera records all exposures in a single burst. In single-frame release mode, one photograph will be taken each time the shutter-release button is pressed; continue shooting until all - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 213
replace the memory card while recording a multiple exposure. Live view (pg. 79) can not be used to record multiple exposures. The information listed in the playback photo information display (including date of recording and camera Settings While multiple exposure mode is in effect, memory cards can - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 214
been recorded to that point. If [Auto gain] is on, gain will be adjusted to reflect the number of exposures actually recorded. Note that shooting will end automatically if: • A two-button reset is performed (pg. 182) • The camera is turned off • The battery is exhausted • Pictures are deleted t 188 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 215
settings are completed (proceed to Step 4). • [Start time]: Choose a start time (see Step 3). D Before Shooting t Choose single-frame (S), continuous low speed (CL), or continuous high speed (CH) release mode when using the interval timer. Before beginning interval timer photography, take a test - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 216
] is selected for [Choose start time]. 4 Choose an interval. Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours, minutes, or seconds; press 1 or 3 to change. Note that the camera will not be able to take photographs at the specified interval if it is shorter than the shutter speed or the time required to record images - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 217
all shots have been taken. t A message will be displayed in the monitor one minute before each series of shots is taken. 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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 218
is full, the interval timer will remain active but no pictures will be taken. Resume shooting (pg. 193) after deleting some pictures or turning the camera off and inserting another memory card. A Bracketing Adjust bracketing settings before starting interval timer photography. If exposure and/or - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 219
and then on again (if desired, the memory card can be replaced while the camera is off ) • Selecting live view (a), self-timer (E), or mirror-up (MUP) release modes To resume shooting: 1 Choose a new starting trigger. Choose a new starting trigger and start time as described on page 189. 2 Resume - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 220
memory buffer or memory card is full, or the camera is unable to focus in single-servo AF (note that the camera focuses again before each shot). t A Release Mode Regardless of the release mode selected, the camera will take the specified number of shots at each interval. In CH (continuous high speed - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 221
apply to all shooting menu banks (pg. 255). If shooting menu settings are reset using the [Reset shooting menu] item in the shooting menu (pg. 257), interval timer settings will be reset as follows: • Choose start time: Now • Interval: 00:01':00" • Number of intervals: 1 • Number of shots: 1 • Start - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 222
the lens: • Enables color matrix metering (note that it may be necessary to use center-weighted or spot metering to achieve accurate results with some lenses, including Reflex-Nikkor lenses) • Improves the precision of center-weighted and spot metering t and i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital SLR - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 223
in the setup menu (pg. 311) 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. Highlight [Focal length (mm)] and press 4 or 2 to choose a focal length between 6 and 4,000 mm. 4 Select a maximum aperture - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 224
length and aperture can be recalled at any time by selecting the lens number using camera controls as described below. ❚❚ Choosing a Lens Number Using Camera Controls 1 Assign non-CPU lens number selection to a camera control. Select [Choose non-CPU lens number] as the "+command dials" option for - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 225
, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and heading to be recorded with each photograph taken. The camera can be used with an optional GP-1 GPS GPS unit designed for use with Nikon digital cameras. For information on connecting the unit, see the manual provided with the GP-1. t 199 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 226
with a PC interface cable connector. 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 200 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 227
(pg. 215), including the current latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and heading (if supported). If no data are received from the GPS unit for two seconds, the k icon will clear from the display and the camera will stop recording GPS information. A GPS Data GPS data are - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 228
if no operations are performed for the period specified in Custom Setting c2 Enable ([Auto meter-off delay]). This reduces the drain on the (default) battery but may prevent GPS data from being recorded if the shutter-release button is pressed all the way down without pausing. Disable Exposure - Nikon D300 | D300 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 pg. 204 Photo Information pg. 206 Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback ...... pg. 218 Taking a Closer Look: - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 230
display "tall" (portrait-orientation) photographs in tall orientation, select [On] for the [Rotate tall] option in the playback menu (pg. 251). Note that because the camera itself is already in the appropriate orientation during shooting, images are not rotated automatically during image - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 231
View additional photographs Use Description Press 2 to setting) after shooting (because the camera is already in the correct orientation, images are not rotated automatically during image I review). In single-frame, self-timer, and mirror-up release modes, photographs are displayed one at a time - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 232
D300 1/ 125 F5. 6 200 35mm AUTO 0, 0 100ND300 DSC_0001. JPG NORMAL 15/12/2007 10: 15: 29 4288x2848 Overview data LATITUDE. LONGITUDE ALTITUDE TIME LENGTH : 35mm LENS : 18-200 / 3. 5-5.6 AF / VR : S / VR-On FLASH MODE, : Select R, G, B RGB histogram 206 N I KON D300 100--1 Shooting - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 233
11 10 9 8 1 Protect status 221 7 Image quality 56 2 Retouch indicator 329 8 Image size 60 3 Focus point 250 9 Image authentication 323 4 AF area brackets 43, 81 10 Time of recording 37 5 Frame number/ 11 Date of recording 37 total number of frames 12 Folder name 258 6 File name - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 234
❚❚ Highlights 1 1 2 3 4 100-1 6 Highlights 5 Sele ct R, G, B 1 Protect status 221 2 Retouch indicator 329 3 Image highlights 2 250 4 Folder number-frame number 258 5 Current channel 2 6 Highlight display indicator ...250 1 Displayed only if [Highlights] is selected for [Display mode] ( - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 235
❚❚ RGB Histogram 1 12 7 3 4 8 Highlights 100--1 5 9 6 Select R, G, B 1 Protect status 221 2 Retouch indicator 329 3 Image highlights 2 250 4 Folder number- frame number 258 5 Histogram (RGB channel) 3. In all histograms, horizontal axis gives pixel brightness, vertical axis number of - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 236
to the left. Histograms can provide a rough idea of overall exposure when bright ambient lighting makes it difficult to see photographs in the monitor. I A Histograms Camera histograms are intended as a guide only and may differ from those displayed in imaging applications. 210 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 237
293 Optimal exposure tuning 3.... 277 11 Camera name 6 Focal length 356 12 Folder number- 7 Lens data 196 frame number 258 1 Displayed only if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 250). 2 Displayed in red if photo was taken with ISO sensitivity auto control on. I 3 Displayed if Custom - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 238
4 151 White balance fine-tuning.... 129 Filter effects 5 151 Preset manual 134 11 Hue 4 151 4 Color space 167 Toning 5 151 5 Picture Control 148 12 Camera name 6 Quick adjust 2 151 13 Folder number- Original Picture Control 3....... 148 frame number 258 1 Displayed only if [Data] is - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 239
NG HAS COME. 3636 N I KON D300 7 1 Protect status 221 2 Retouch indicator 329 3 High ISO noise reduction ...... 263 Long exposure noise reduction 262 4 Active D-Lighting 165 100--1 8 5 Retouch history 329 6 Image comment 316 7 Camera - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 240
Data Page 4 * 1 2 3 ART I ST : NI KON TARO 4 COPYRI GHT : NI KON N I KON D300 5 1 Protect status 221 2 Retouch indicator 329 3 Name of photographer.......... 324 4 Copyright holder 324 100--1 6 5 Camera name 6 Folder number- frame number 258 * Displayed only if [Data] is selected for - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 241
:15:29 7 HEADING :105. 07º N I KON D300 8 100--1 9 1 Protect status 221 2 Retouch indicator 329 3 Latitude 4 Longitude 5 Altitude 6 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) 7 Heading 2 8 Camera name 9 Folder number- frame number 258 1 Displayed only if GPS device was used when photo was taken (pg - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 242
10 1 Frame number/ 6 ISO sensitivity 94 total number of frames 7 Focal length 356 2 Protect status 221 8 GPS data indicator 199 3 Camera name 9 Image comment 4 Metering method 100 14 Exposure mode 102 15 Shutter speed 106, 109 16 Aperture 107, 109 I * Displayed in red if photo - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 243
Date of recording 37 18 Active D-Lighting 166 25 Folder number 258 19 File name 260 26 White balance 125 20 Image quality 56 Color temperature 133 21 Image size 60 White balance fine-tuning ....129 22 Image authentication Preset manual 134 indicator 323 27 Color space 167 23 Time - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 244
Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback To display images in "contact sheets" of four or nine images, press the W button. W W X X Full-frame Thumbnail playback I 218 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 245
Toggle full frame switch back and forth between playback full frame and thumbnail playback. Use multi selector to highlight Highlight images images for full-frame playback, playback zoom ( by the center of the multi selector, see Custom Setting f1 ([Multi selector center button], pg. 300). 219 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 246
in effect: To Zoom in or out View other areas of image I View other images Change protect status Return to shooting mode Display menus Use X/ W Description Press X to zoom in to maximum of approximately 27 × (large images), 20 × (medium images) or 13 × (small images). Press W to zoom out. While - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 247
protect photographs from accidental deletion. Protected files can not be deleted using the O button or the [Delete] option in the playback menu. Note that protected images will be deleted when the memory card is formatted (pp. 41, 312). To protect a photograph: 1 Select an image. Display the image - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 248
I To delete the photograph, press the O button again. To exit without deleting the photograph, press the K button. A See Also To delete multiple images, use the [Delete] option in the playback menu (pg. 248). The [After delete] option in the playback menu determines whether the next image or the - Nikon D300 | D300 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 pg. 224 Direct USB Connection pg. 226 Wireless and Ethernet Networks pg. 229 Printing Photographs - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 250
supplied UC-E4 USB cable. Once the camera is connected, Nikon Transfer or optional Nikon software such as Camera Control Pro 2 can be used to copy photographs to the computer or control the camera remotely. Q D Connecting Cables Be sure the camera is off when connecting or disconnecting interface - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 251
necessary software from the supplied installer CD (see the Install Guide for more information). To ensure that data transfer is not interrupted, be sure the camera battery is fully charged. If in doubt, charge the battery before use or use an EH-5a or EH-5 AC adapter (available separately). Before - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 252
computer on and wait for it to start up. 4 Connect the USB cable. Connect the USB cable as shown. Do not use force or attempt to insert the connectors at an angle. Q D USB Hubs Connect the camera directly to the computer; do not connect the cable via a USB hub or keyboard. 226 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 253
and the PC connection indicator will flash in the control panel (camera displays do not change if [MTP/PTP] is selected). 6 Nikon Transfer. To view the online help, start Nikon Transfer and select [Nikon Transfer help] from the Nikon Transfer [Help] menu. Q D During Transfer Do not turn the camera - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 254
can be turned off and the USB cable disconnected once transfer is complete. If [Mass Storage] is selected, the camera must first be removed from the system as described below. Windows Storage Device] from the menu that appears. Mac OS X Drag the camera volume ("NIKON D300") into the Trash. Q 228 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 255
mode Control camera from computer using Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately). Print mode Print JPEG photographs on 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 supplied software - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 256
camera (pg. 231). • Insert the camera memory card in a printer equipped with a card slot (see the printer manual for details). If the printer supports DPOF (pg. 416), photographs can be selected for printing using [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 240). • Take the camera memory card to a developer or digital - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 257
USB cable, selected JPEG pictures can be printed directly from the camera. Take photographs Select photographs for printing using [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 240) Select [MTP/PTP] in camera [USB] menu and connect camera to printer (pg. 232) Print photographs one at a time (pg. 233) Print multiple - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 258
Connecting the Printer Connect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. 1 Select [MTP/PTP]. If the [USB] option in the camera setup menu has been changed from the default setting of [MTP/PTP], display the [USB] menu and select [MTP/PTP] (pg. 225). 2 Turn the camera off. 3 Connect the USB cable - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 259
X button to zoom in on the current frame (pg. 220). To view six pictures at a time, press the W button. Use the multi selector to highlight pictures, or press X to display the highlighted picture full frame. 2 Display printing options. Press J to display PictBridge printing options. J button Q 233 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 260
be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to choose page size (to print at Page size default page size for current printer, select [Printer default]), then default] (default Q Time for current printer), [Print time stamp stamp] (print time and date of recording on photo), or [No time stamp], then press J - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 261
, highlight [No cropping] and press J. To crop picture, highlight [Crop] and press 2. Cropping If [Crop] is selected, dialog shown at right will be displayed. Press X to increase size of crop, W to decrease. Choose position of crop using multi selector and press J. 4 Start printing. Select - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 262
DPOF)]: Print an existing print order created with the [Print set (DPOF)] option in the playback menu (pg. 240). The current print order will be displayed in Step 3. To create an index print of all JPEG pictures on the memory Q card, select [Index print]. See page 239 for more information. 236 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 263
. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture full screen, press X button. To select the L button current picture for printing, press the L button and press 1. The picture will be marked with a Z icon and the number of prints will be set - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 264
, Time Stamp, and Cropping Choose printer default to print at current printer settings. Only options supported by the current printer can be selected. Note that print quality may drop if small crops are printed at large sizes. A See Also See page 397 for information on what to do if an error occurs - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 265
pictures on the memory card, select [Index print] in Step 2 of "Printing Multiple Pictures" (pg. 236). Note that if the memory card contains more than 256 pictures printing options. 3 Adjust printing options. Choose page size, border, and time stamp options as described on page 238 (a warning - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 266
that support DPOF. Selecting [Print set (DPOF)] from the playback menu displays the menu shown in Step 1. 1 Choose [Select/set]. Highlight [Select/set] and press 2. 2 Select pictures. Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture in - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 267
data imprint options are not supported Q when printing via direct USB connection; to print the date of recording on photographs in the current print order, use the PictBridge [Time stamp] option. The Print Set option can not be used if there is not enough space on the memory card to store the print - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 268
EG-D100 video cable can be used to connect the D300 to a television or VCR for playback or recording. A type A High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable (available separately from commercial sources) can be used to connect the camera to high-definition video devices. Standard Definition - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 269
video standard matches the standard used in the video device. Note that resolution will drop when images are output on a PAL device. A Television Playback Use of an EH-5a or EH-5 AC adapter (available separately) is recommended for extended playback. When the EH-5a or EH-5 is connected, the camera - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 270
playback, images will be displayed on the high- definition television or monitor screen; the camera monitor Q will remain off. A HDMI (pg. 314) At the default setting of [Auto], the camera automatically selects the appropriate HDMI format for the high-definition device. The HDMI format can - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 271
UMenu Guide This chapter describes the options available in the camera menus. D The Playback Menu: Managing Images pg. 246 C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options pg. 254 A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings pg. 264 B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup pg. 311 N The Retouch Menu: Creating - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 272
Images The playback menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the playback menu, see "Tutorial: Camera Menus." Option Delete Playback folder Hide image Display mode Image review After delete Rotate tall Slide show Print set (DPOF) See page 248 249 249 250 251 251 251 252 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 273
image] (pg. 249), [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 240), and direct printing (pg. 236): 1 Highlight a picture. To view the highlighted picture full screen, press and hold the X button. X button 2 Press the center of the multi selector to select the highlighted picture. Selected pictures are marked by an - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 274
, highlight it and press center of multi selector. 4 Press J to complete the operation. J button A confirmation dialog will be displayed; highlight [Yes] and press J. Delete Select this option to delete pictures. Protected and hidden images will not be deleted. Option Q Selected R All Description - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 275
Pictures in all folders created with the D300 will be visible during playback. Pictures in all folders will be visible during playback. Only pictures by formatting the memory card. Option Description Select/set Hide or reveal selected pictures. Deselect all? Reveal all pictures. D Protected and - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 276
in red in photo Focus point information display. No focus point is displayed if camera was unable to focus using continuous-servo autofocus or if continuous-servo autofocus was used with auto-area AF. Detailed photo info Highlights for master RGB channel and for individual Highlights red - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 277
shooting, images are not rotated automatically during image review (pg. 205). Option Description "Tall" (portrait-orientation) pictures are automatically U On rotated for display in the camera monitor. Pictures taken with [Off ] selected for [Auto image rotation] (pg. 317) will be displayed - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 278
Description Start Start slide show. Frame interval Choose how long each picture will be displayed. To start the slide show, highlight [Start 204) or thumbnail playback (pg. 218). Exit to shooting mode Press shutter-release button halfway to return to shooting mode. A dialog shown at right is - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 279
Print Set (DPOF) Choose [Select/set] to select pictures for printing on a DPOFcompatible device (pg. 240). Choose [Deselect all?] to remove all pictures from the current print order. U 253 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 280
below. For information on using the shooting menu, see "Tutorial: Camera Menus" (pg. 24). Option Shooting menu bank Reset shooting menu Active folder File naming Image quality Image size JPEG compression NEF (RAW) recording White balance Set Picture Control Manage Picture Control Color space Active - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 281
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 one of the four banks and set the camera to these settings. The new settings will be - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 282
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 Name area desired character in the keyboard area and press the center of the multi selector. To delete the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 283
for the current shooting menu bank. See page 401 for a list of default settings. With the exceptions of image quality, image size, white balance, and ISO sensitivity, shooting menu settings are not reset when a two-button reset (pg. 182) is performed. Option Description Yes Restore defaults - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 284
and press 2. 2 Choose a folder number. Press 4 or 2 to highlight a digit, press 1 or 3 to change. If a folder with the selected number already exists contains 999 pictures or a picture numbered 9999. No further pictures can be stored in this folder. 3 Save changes and exit. Press J to complete the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 285
If the current folder is numbered 999 and contains 999 pictures or a picture numbered 9999, the shutter-release will be disabled and no further photographs can be A Number of Folders Additional time may be required for camera startup if the memory card contains a very large number of folders. U 259 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 286
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 three letters to replace the "DSC" portion of the file name. For information on - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 287
(pg. 126). Set Picture Control Select from the Picture Controls provided with the camera to instantly adjust image processing settings (pg. 146). Manage Picture Control Save and modify custom Picture Control combinations, or copy custom Picture Controls to or from the memory card (pg. 154). Color - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 288
for a period of time approximately equal to the current shutter speed. In continuous release mode, frame rates will slow and while photographs are being processed, the capacity of the memory buffer will drop. Photographs can not be taken until processing is complete and "l m" has cleared - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 289
the amount performed when [Low] is selected for [High ISO NR]. ISO Sensitivity Settings Adjust ISO sensitivity and ISO sensitivity auto control settings (pp. 94, 96). Live View Choose a live view mode and the release mode that will be used when the camera is in live view mode (pg. 79). Multiple - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 290
A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings Custom Settings are used to customize camera settings to suit individual preferences. In addition to Custom Settings B ([Custom setting bank]) and A ([Reset custom settings]), settings in the Custom Settings menu are divided into the six groups shown - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 291
. button 302 c2 Auto meter-off delay 279 f5 Assign preview button 305 c3 Self-timer delay 280 f6 Assign AE-L/AF-L button 306 c4 Monitor off delay 280 f7 Customize command dials 307 d Shooting/display f8 Release button to use dial 308 d1 Beep 281 f9 No memory card? 309 d2 Viewfinder - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 292
others. To store a particular combination of frequently-used settings, select one of the four banks and set the camera to these settings. The new settings will be stored in the bank even when the camera is turned off, and will be restored the next time the bank is selected. Different combinations of - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 293
a1: AF-C Priority Selection This option controls whether Focus mode selector 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-servo AF, rotate the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 294
be taken only when the camera is in focus (focus priority) or whenever the shutterrelease button is pressed (release priority) in single-servo S. Focus mode selector Option G Release F Focus (default) Description Photos can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed. Photos can - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 295
Description c 9 points (default) If the subject leaves the selected focus point, the camera will focus based on information from the surrounding eight focus points. Choose when there is time to compose the photograph or when photographing subjects that are moving predictably (e.g., runners or - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 296
Use to quickly compose pictures with subjects that are moving erratically from side to side (e.g., tennis players). If the subject leaves the viewfinder, remove your finger from the shutter-release changes abruptly, the UD Normal (default) camera waits for the specified period (long, normal - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 297
by pressing the shutter-release button halfway. Autofocus can only be performed using the B button. a6: AF Point Illumination Choose whether the active focus point is highlighted in red in the viewfinder. Option Description Auto - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 298
at the right edge of the display is selected has no effect. a8: AF Point Selection Choose the number of focus points available for manual focuspoint selection. Option Description Choose from the 51 focus points shown at right. B 51 points (default) Choose from the 11 focus points shown at - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 299
focus mode (pg. 62). 2. Auto-area AF is chosen for AF-area operation. The camera may not be able to focus using autofocus when lighting using the illuminator, use a lens with a focal length of 24- 200 mm and remove the lens hood. A See Also See page 355 for restrictions on the lenses that can be used - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 300
function assigned to the B button on the optional MB-D10 battery pack. Option Description A AF-ON (default) Pressing the MB button is D AE lock (Reset on release) pressed, and remains locked until the button is pressed a second time, the shutter is released or the exposure meters turn off. - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 301
equivalent to 1/2 EV. The bracketing increment can be selected from 1/2 and 1 EV. J 1 step Changes to shutter speed and aperture are in increments equivalent to 1 EV. The bracketing increment is set to 1 EV. b3: Exp Comp/Fine Tune This option determines whether adjustments to exposure and flash - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 302
even when exposure compensation is set to ±0. Option K On (Auto reset) On Off (default) Description Exposure compensation is set by rotating one of the command dials (see note below). The setting selected using the command dial is reset when the camera or exposure meters turn off (exposure - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 303
the diameter is fixed at 8 mm when a non-CPU lens is used, regardless of the setting selected for [Non-CPU lens data] in the setup menu (pg. 196). b6: Fine Tune Optimal Exposure Use this option to fine-tune the exposure value selected by the camera. Exposure can be fine tuned separately for each - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 304
2 Select [Yes]. The message shown at right will be displayed; highlight [Yes] and press 2 to proceed, or select [No] to exit without altering exposure. 3 Select a metering method. Highlight [Matrix metering], [Center-weighted], or [Spot metering] and press 2. 4 Choose an exposure value. Press 1 or 3 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 305
c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L 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 This option controls how long the camera continues - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 306
c3: Self-Timer Delay This option controls the length of the shutter release delay in self-timer mode. Choose from 2 s, 5 s, 10 s, or 10 minutes. Choose a shorter monitor-off delay for longer battery life. Regardless of the setting chosen, the monitor remains on if no operations are performed for - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 307
: Beep Choose [High] or [Low] to sound a beep when the self-timer is used or the camera focuses in single-servo autofocus (note that a beep will not sound if [Release] is selected for Custom Setting a2 ([AF-S priority selection], pg. 268)). Option y High (default) z Low Off Description Choose - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 308
value at slow shutter speeds, and that the maximum frame rate without the optional MB-D10 battery pack is 6 fps. d5: Max. Continuous Release The maximum number of shots that can be taken in a single burst in continuous mode can be set to any value between 1 and 100. A The Memory Buffer Regardless - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 309
999 and contains either 999 photographs or a photograph numbered 9999, the shutter-release button U will be disabled and no further photographs can be taken. Choose [Reset] for Custom Setting d6 ([File number sequence]) and then either format the current memory card or insert a new memory card. 283 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 310
Info Display At the default setting of [Auto] (AUTO), the color of the lettering in the information display (pg. 12) will automatically 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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 311
where the slightest camera movement can blur pictures, [On] can be selected to delay shutter release until about 1 s after the shutter-release button is pressed and the mirror is raised. d10: MB-D10 Battery Type To ensure that the camera functions as expected when eight AA batteries are used in the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 312
only be used if no alternative is available and then only at warmer temperatures. The camera shows the level of AA batteries as follows: Control panel L I H (blinks) Viewfinder - d d (blinks) Description Batteries fully charged. Low battery. Ready fresh batteries. Shutter release disabled. Change - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 313
Order 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. Option 5 Use MB-D10 batteries first (default) 6 Use camera battery first Description The camera battery is used only when the batteries in the MB - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 314
-R200 flash units. If other flash units are used, shutter speed is set to 1/320 s. When the camera shows a shutter speed of 1/320 s in exposure mode e or g, auto FP high-speed sync will be activated if the actual shutter speed is faster than 1/320 s. Use auto FP high-speed sync with SB-900, SB-800 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 315
selected for Custom Setting e1 ([Flash sync speed], pg. 288), the built-in flash can be used at shutter speeds as fast as 1/320 s, while optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-R200 flash units can be used at any shutter speed (Auto FP High-Speed Sync). Flash sync speed Shutter speed 1/8,000-1/320 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 316
slowest shutter speed available when using front- or rear-curtain sync or red-eye reduction in programmed 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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 317
is adjusted automatically in response to shooting conditions. 2 Manual Choose the flash level (pg. 292). 3 Repeating flash The flash fires repeatedly while the shutter is open, producing a strobe-light effect (pg. 292). 4 Commander Use the built-in flash as a master flash controlling mode - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 318
❚❚ 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 18/59 (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 or 2 to - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 319
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 values between +3.0 and -3.0 EV in increments of 1/3 EV. Auto aperture (available only with SB-900 and SB-800 flash AA set to the same channel. 293 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 320
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 output level for the flash units in group A. 3 Adjust settings for group B. Choose the flash control mode and output level for the flash units in group - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 321
Camera sensors on flash units should face camera. (built-in flash) 5 m/15 ft. or less 7 Set the remote flash units to the selected channel. Turn all the remote flash units on and set them to the channel selected in Step 4. See the Speedlight instruction manuals that the camera flash-ready light - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 322
camera lens (in TTL mode) or the photocells on the remote flash units (AA mode), as this may interfere with exposure. To prevent timing flashes emitted by the built-in flash from appearing in photographs taken at short range, choose low ISO sensitivities or small apertures (large f-numbers) or use - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 323
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 (pg. 103). No modeling flash is emitted if [Off ] is selected. e5: Auto Bracketing Set Choose the setting or settings - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 324
e6: Auto Bracketing (Mode M) This option determines which settings are affected when [AE & flash] or [AE only] is selected for Custom Setting e5 in manual exposure mode. Option Description F Flash/speed (default) Camera varies shutter speed (Custom Setting e5 set to [AE only]) or shutter speed - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 325
e7: Bracketing Order At the default setting of [MTR]>[under]>[over] (H), bracketing is performed in the order described on pages 118 and 122. If [Under]>[MTR]>[over] (I) is selected, shooting will proceed in order from the lowest to the highest value. U 299 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 326
default) K Highlight active focus point Not used Description Pressing the center of the multi the multi selector has no effect when the camera is in shooting mode. ❚❚ Playback Mode / off playback zoom. Choose the initial zoom setting from [Low magnification], [Medium magnification], and - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 327
activated when the multi selector is pressed. f3: Photo Info/Playback At the default setting of [Info13/Playback42], pressing 1 or 3 in full-frame playback changes the photo information displayed, select [Info42/Playback13]. This setting also applies to the multi selector on the optional MB-D10 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 328
when used in combination with the command dials ([FUNC. button+dials]). ❚❚ FUNC. Button Press Selecting [FUNC. button press] for Custom Setting f4 is pressed, and remains locked until the button is pressed a second time, the shutter is released, or the exposure meters turn off. E AE lock (Hold) - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 329
bracketing program will be taken each time the shutter-release button is t Bracketing burst pressed. If white balance bracketing is active or continuous release mode (mode CH or CL) is selected, the camera will repeat the bracketing burst while the shutter-release button is held down (in - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 330
Setting f4 displays the following options: Option Description If the Fn button is pressed when the command dials are rotated, changes to shutter speed lens choose a lens number specified using the [Non- number CPU lens data] option. Press the Fn button and rotate the main command Auto dial - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 331
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 [Preview button press] is [Preview] and the default setting for [Preview + command dials] is [None]. U 305 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 332
f6: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button Choose the role played by the AE-L/AF-L button, either by itself ([AE-L/AF-L button press]) or when used in combination with the command dials ([AE-L/AF-L+command dials]). The options available for [AE-L/AF-L button press] are the same as for [FUNC. button - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 333
sub-command dial shutter speed. This setting also applies to the command dials for the MB- D10. At the default setting of [Sub- setting adjusted with the lens aperture ring and the camera aperture display will show aperture in increments of 1 EV (aperture for type G lenses is still set using - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 334
the button is pressed again, the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, or any of the I, E, M, ISO, QUAL, or WB button is pressed. Except when [No limit] is selected for Custom Setting c2 [Auto meter-off delay] or an optional EH-5a or EH-5 AC adapter is used, U setting will also end when the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 335
release button is only enabled when a memory card is inserted in the camera. Note that when photographs are being captured to a computer using Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately), photographs are not recorded to the camera memory card and the shutter will be enabled regardless of the setting - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 336
f10: Reverse Indicators At the default setting of (V), the exposure indicators in the control panel, viewfinder and shooting information display are displayed with positive values on the left and negative values on - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 337
: Camera Menus" (pg. 24). Option See page Format memory card 312 LCD brightness 312 Clean image sensor 373 Lock mirror up for cleaning 1 376 Video mode 313 HDMI 314 World time 315 Language 315 Image comment 316 Auto image rotation 317 USB 318 Dust off ref photo 318 Battery - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 338
Memory Card Format the card. Note that formatting permanently deletes all pictures and other data on the card. Before formatting, be sure to make backup copies as required. D During Formatting Do not turn the camera off or remove memory cards during formatting. A Two-Button Format Memory cards - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 339
in the up position to allow inspection or manual cleaning of the low-pass filter that protects the camera image sensor (pg. 376). Video Mode When connecting the camera to a television or VCR via the video connector, be sure the camera video mode matches the device video standard (NTSC or PAL). U 313 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 340
pictures to be played back on high-definition televisions or monitors using a type A cable (available separately from commercial suppliers). Before connecting the camera Auto (default) J 480p (progressive) K 576p (progressive) L 720p (progressive) M 1080i (interlaced) Description The camera - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 341
Date format Choose the order in which the day, month, and year are displayed. Daylight saving time Turn daylight saving time on or off. The camera clock will automatically be advanced or set back one hour. The default setting is [Off ]. Language Choose a language for camera menus and messages - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 342
Image Comment Add a comment to new photographs as they are taken. Comments can be viewed in ViewNX version 1.2.0 or later or in Capture NX version 1.3.5 or later or Capture NX 2 version 2.1.0 or later (available separately; pg. 368). The comment is also visible on the third shooting data page in the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 343
Camera rotated 90° clockwise Camera rotated 90° counter-clockwise Camera orientation is not recorded when [Off ] is selected. Choose this option when taking photographs with the lens pointing up or down. D Auto . 251). Note that because the camera itself is already in the appropriate orientation - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 344
Capture NX 2 version 2.1.0 or later (available separately; for more information, see the software manual). [Dust off ref photo] is available only when a CPU lens is mounted on the camera. A lens with a focal length of at least 50 mm is recommended. When using a zoom lens, zoom all the way in. U 318 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 345
. With the lens about ten centimeters (four inches) from a welllit, featureless white object, frame the object so that it fills the viewfinder and then press the shutter-release button halfway. U In autofocus mode, focus will automatically be set to infinity; in manual focus mode, set focus to - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 346
Image Dust Off reference data. The monitor turns off when the shutter-release button is pressed. If the reference object is too bright or too dark, the camera may be unable to acquire Image Dust Off reference data and the message shown at right will be displayed. Choose another reference object and - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 347
level expressed as a percentage. The number of times the shutter has been released with the current battery since the battery was last charged. Note Pic. meter that the camera may sometimes release the shutter without recording a photograph, for example when measuring preset white balance - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 348
by an optional MB-D10 battery pack depends on the type of batteries used: EN-EL3e EN-EL4a/EN-EL4 (option) 8 × AA (option) Bat. meter ✔ ✔ ✔ Pic. meter ✔ ✔ - Calibration - ✔ - Charging life ✔ ✔ - Wireless Transmitter This option is used to adjust settings for connection to a wireless network - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 349
as they are taken, allowing alterations to be detected using Nikon's optional Image Authentication software. Image authentication information can not D Camera Control Pro 2 Image authentication information is not embedded in TIFF (RGB) photographs recorded directly to a computer using Camera Control - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 350
sure 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 324 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 351
to save the following settings to the camera memory card (if the memory card is full, an error will be displayed; pg. 394). Menu Option Display mode Playback Image review After delete Rotate tall Shooting menu bank File naming Image quality Image size JPEG compression NEF (RAW) recording - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 352
sensor Video mode HDMI World time (excepting date and time) Language Setup Image comment Auto image rotation USB Image authentication Copyright information GPS Non-CPU lens data All My Menu items My Menu/ Recent Settings All recent settings Choose tab Settings saved using the D300 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 353
+20 and -20. from camera. value Values for up to 12 lens types can be stored. Only one value can be stored for each type of lens. Current value Choose the AF tuning value used Default when no previously saved value exists for the current lens (CPU lenses only). Move focal point toward - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 354
that is the same as the last two digits of the lens serial number to distinguish it from other lenses of the same type in light of the fact that [Saved value] List can be used with only one lens of each type), highlight the saved desired lens and press 2. values The menu shown at right - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 355
memory card. The retouch menu is only displayed when a memory card containing photographs is inserted in the camera. For information on using the retouch menu, see "Tutorial: Camera 342 * Not available with photographs taken with [Monochrome] selected for [Set Picture Control] (pg. 148). U 329 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 356
from the retouch menu. ❚❚ Creating Retouched Copies in Full-Frame Playback 1 Choose a picture. Display the desired picture in full-frame playback (pg. 204). 2 Display the retouch menu. Press J K. U A See Also See page 229 for information on using the J button with the WT-4 wireless transmitter. 330 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 357
select. Depending on the option selected, a menu may be displayed; highlight an option and press 2. 2 Select a picture. The pictures on the memory card will be displayed. Use the multi selector to highlight a picture (to view the highlighted picture full screen, press and hold the X button). U 331 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 358
3 Display retouch options. Press J to display retouch options (see the section for the selected option for details). To exit without creating a retouched copy, press G. 4 Create a retouched copy. Press J to create a retouched copy. Retouched copies are indicated by a N icon. U 332 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 359
[Trim] (pg. 336) and [Image overlay], copies created from JPEG images are the same size and quality as the original, copies created from NEF (RAW) photos are saved as large fine- JPEG images of the same size as the original. Sizepriority compression is used when copies are saved in JPEG format. U 333 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 360
D-Lighting D-lighting brightens shadows, making it ideal for dark or backlit photographs. Before 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. After U 334 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 361
Cancel zoom Create copy Use Description Press X button to X zoom in, W button to zoom out. While photo is zoomed in, use multi selector to view is indicated J by yellow border. Press J to cancel zoom. If the camera detects red-eye in the selected photograph, a copy will be created J that - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 362
yellow; create a cropped copy as described in the following table. To Use Description Reduce size of crop W Press the W button to reduce the size of the crop. Increase size of crop X Press the X button to increase the size of the crop. Change crop aspect ratio Rotate the main command dial - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 363
JPEG fine; cropped copies created from JPEG photos have the same image quality as the original. The size of the copy varies with crop size and aspect ratio. Aspect ratio 3:2 4:3 5:4 Possible sizes 3,424 × 2,280, 2,560 × 1,704, 1,920 × 1,280, 1,280 × 856, 960 × 640, 640 × 424 3,424 × 2,568, 2,560 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 364
effect of a skylight filter, making the picture less blue. The effect can be previewed effect can be previewed in the monitor. Color Balance Use the multi selector to create a copy with modified color RAW) Pictures U To create a JPEG copy of an NEF (RAW) picture, select the NEF (RAW) picture for - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 365
than photographs combined in an imaging application because they make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor. The new picture is saved at current image quality and size settings; before creating an overlay, set image quality and size (pp. 56, 60; all options are available). To create a NEF - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 366
the highlighted photograph. Press J to select the highlighted photograph and return to the preview display. The selected image will appear as [Image 1]. 5 Set gain. Optimize exposure for the overlay by pressing 1 or 3 to select the gain for image 1 from values between 0.1 and 2.0. The default value - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 367
of recording, metering, shutter speed, aperture, exposure mode, exposure U compensation, focal length, and image orientation) and values for white balance and picture control as the photograph selected for [Image 1]. Overlays saved in NEF (RAW) format use the compression selected for [Type - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 368
Side-by-Side Comparison Compare retouched copies to the original photographs. ❚❚ Making a Side-by-Side Comparison 1 Select a picture. Use the multi selector to select a picture and press J. Only retouched copies (shown by a N icon) or photographs that have been retouched can be selected. 2 Select [ - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 369
image (1 3 4 or 2) to switch between the source image and the retouched copy. To view the highlighted picture full frame, press and hold the X button. If the copy was created from two images using [Image overlay], press 1 or 3 to view the other source image. To exit to playback mode, press the - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 370
Menu: Creating a Custom Menu 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, recent settings can be displayed in place of My Menu (pg. 348). Options - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 371
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 be selected. Repeat steps 1-4 to select additional items. U 345 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 372
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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 373
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 D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 374
highlight [Choose tab] and press 2. 2 Select [Recent settings]. Highlight [Recent settings] and press J. The name of the menu will change from "MY MENU" to "RECENT SETTINGS." Menu items will be added to the top of the recent settings menu as they are used. To view My Menu again, select [My Menu] for - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 375
Other Accessories pg. 365 Caring for the Camera pg. 372 Storage pg. 372 Cleaning pg. 372 The Low-Pass Filter pg. 373 "Clean Now pg. 373 "Clean at Startup/Shutdown pg. 374 Manual Cleaning pg. 376 Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions pg. 379 Troubleshooting pg. 383 Error Messages pg - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 376
- ✔ 13 - - ✔ PN-11) 1 IX-Nikkor lenses can not be used. 2 Vibration Reduction (VR) supported with VR lenses. 3 Spot metering meters selected focus point. 4 The camera's exposure metering and flash control systems do not work properly when shifting and/or tilting the lens, or when an aperture other - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 377
are specified using [Non-CPU lens data] (pg. 196). Use spot or center-weighted metering if desired results are not achieved. 15 For improved precision, specify lens focal length and maximum aperture using [Non-CPU lens data] (pg. 196). 16 Can be used in manual exposure modes at shutter speeds slower - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 378
and Non-CPU Lenses The following accessories and non-CPU lenses can NOT be used with the D300: • TC-16AS AF teleconverter • AF lenses for the F3AF (AF 80mm • Non-AI lenses f/2.8, AF 200mm f/3.5 ED, • Lenses that require the AU-1 AF Teleconverter TC-16) focusing unit (400mm f/4.5, 600mm - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 379
be used, and center-weighted metering is used when matrix metering is selected. Non-CPU lenses can only be used in exposure modes g and h, when aperture must be set using the lens aperture ring. If the maximum aperture has not been specified using [Non-CPU lens data], the camera aperture display - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 380
used in the macro range of macro zoom lenses. The flash may be unable to light the entire subject with the following lenses at ranges less than those given below: Lens The built-in flash can also be used with AI-, AI-modified Nikkor, Nikon Series E and non-CPU lenses with a focal length of 18-300mm. - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 381
17-35mm f/2.8D ED At ranges under 1.1m (3ft. 7in.), the following lenses may block the AFassist illuminator and interfere with autofocus when lighting is poor: 6G ED At ranges under 1.5m (4ft. 11in.), the following lenses may block the AF- assist illuminator and interfere with autofocus when - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 382
camera is approximately 1.5 times that of the D300. To calculate the focal length of lenses for the D300 in 35mm format, multiply the focal length of the lens by 1.5 (for example, the effective focal length of a 24mm lens in 35mm format would be 36 mm when mounted on the D300). Picture size (35mm - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 383
level at the metered value, allowing a series of photographs to be taken at the same flash level. • Auto FP High-Speed Sync (pg. 289): Allows the flash to be used at the highest shutter speed supported by the camera, making it possible to choose the maximum aperture for reduced depth of field. n 357 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 384
Guide ISO 100 34/111 No. 3 ISO 200 48/157 38/125 53/174 30/98 21/69 42/138 30/98 10/33 14/46 Auto lens light axis), 45 ° up (away from light axis) 1 If a color filter is attached to the SB-900 when v or N (flash) is selected for white balance, the camera camera, the SU-800 can be used as - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 385
calculate the range of the flash at full power, divide the Guide Number by the aperture. For example, at ISO 100 the SB-800 has a Guide Number of 38 m or 125 ft.; its range at an aperture of f/5.6 is 38÷5.6 or about 6.8 meters (or in feet, 125÷5.6=approximately 23 ft. 7 in.). - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 386
flash unit. 3 Standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR is used with spot metering. 4 Selected with flash unit. Non-TTL auto (A) selected automatically if non-CPU lens is attached without specifying lens data using [Non-CPU lens data]. 5 Auto aperture (AA) is used regardless of mode selected with flash - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 387
Other Flash Units The following flash units can be used in non-TTL auto and manual modes. If they are set to TTL, the camera shutter-release button will lock and no photographs can be taken. Flash mode Speedlight SB-80DX, SB-28DX, SB-28, SB-26, SB-25, SB-24 SB- - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 388
manual for detailed instructions. If the Speedlight supports the Nikon Creative Lighting System, refer to the section on CLScompatible digital SLR cameras. The D300 is not included in the "digital SLR" category in the SB-80DX, SB-28DX, and SB-50DX manuals. i-TTL flash control can be used at ISO - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 389
Accessories Use only Nikon Speedlights. Negative voltages or voltages over 250 V applied to the accessory shoe could not only prevent normal operation, but damage the sync circuitry of the camera or flash. Before using a Nikon Speedlight not listed in this section, contact a Nikon-authorized service - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 390
a sync cable when performing rear-curtain sync flash photography with a flash unit mounted on the camera accessory shoe. D ISO Sensitivity When auto ISO sensitivity control is on (pg. 96), ISO sensitivity will n automatically be adjusted as required for optimal flash output when an optional SB-900 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 391
Other Accessories At the time of writing, the following accessories were available for the D300. • Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e (pp. 30, 32): Additional EN-EL3e batteries are available from local retailers and Nikon service representatives. The EN-EL3e can be recharged using an MH-18a or - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 392
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 D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 393
of SB-900 flash units mounted on the Water guards D300, increasing the SB-900's splash resistance by protecting the accessory shoe contacts from rain and spray. PC card adapters • EC-AD1 PC Card Adapter: The EC-AD1 PC card adapter allows Type I CompactFlash memory cards to be inserted in PCMCIA - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 394
been modified after shooting. Note: Use the latest versions of Nikon software. Most Nikon software offers an auto update feature when the computer is connected to the Internet. • Body Cap: The body cap keeps the mirror, viewfinder screen, and low-pass filter free of dust when a lens is not in place - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 395
80 cm/2 ft. 7 in.). • Remote Cord MC-36: Remote shutter release; can be used for interval timer photography or to reduce camera shake or keep the shutter open during a time exposure. Equipped with back-lit control panel, shutter-release lock for use in bulb photography, and timer that beeps at one - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 396
latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC, pg. 202), and heading to be recorded with photographs (length 35 cm/14 in.). • GPS Unit GP-1 (pg. 199): Record latitude, longitude, altitude, and UTC time with pictures. • Modulite Remote Control Set ML-3: Allows infrared remote control - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 397
❚❚ Approved Memory Cards The following cards have been tested and approved for use in the D300: SanDisk 8 GB Extreme IV SDCFX4 4 GB 2 GB 8 GB Extreme III SDCFX3 4 GB 2 GB 1 GB 8 GB Ultra II SDCFH 4 GB 2 GB 1 GB 4 GB Standard SDCFB 2 GB 1 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 398
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 D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 399
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 be cleaned at any time using the [Clean - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 400
at right will be displayed while cleaning is in progress. The message shown at right will be displayed when cleaning is complete. ❚❚ "Clean at Startup/Shutdown" 1 Select [Clean at startup/ shutdown]. Display the [Clean image sensor] menu as described in Step 2 on the previous page. Highlight [Clean - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 401
removed using the options in the [Clean image sensor] menu, clean n the image sensor manually (pg. 376) or consult a Nikon-authorized service representative. If image sensor cleaning is performed several times in succession, image sensor cleaning may be temporarily disabled to protect the camera - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 402
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 power - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 403
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 shutter curtain will close. Replace the lens or body cap. n 377 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 404
, and that it be serviced once every three to five years (note that fees apply to these n services). Frequent inspection and servicing are particularly recommended if the camera is used professionally. Any accessories regularly used with the camera, such as lenses or optional Speedlights, should - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 405
Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions Do not drop: The memory card, or affect the product's internal circuitry. Do not leave the lens pointed at the sun: Do not leave the lens pointed at the sun or other strong light source for an extended period. Intense light may cause the image sensor - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 406
moisture and should be replaced at regular intervals. To prevent mold or mildew, take the camera out of storage at least once a month. Turn the camera on and release the shutter a few times before putting it away. Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Replace the terminal cover before putting - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 407
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 entering the eyes and mouth. Replace the monitor cover when transporting the camera or leaving it unattended. n 381 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 408
due caution when handling the battery. Use only batteries approved for use in this equipment. Do not expose the battery to flame or excessive heat. After removing the battery from the camera, be sure to replace the terminal cover. Charge the battery before use. When taking photographs on important - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 409
and turn the camera on again. In the event of continued malfunction, contact your retailer or Nikon-authorized service representative. Note that disconnecting the power source as described above may result in loss of any data not recorded to the memory card at the time the problem occurred. Data - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 410
❚❚ Shooting Problem Solution Page Camera takes time to turn on. Delete files or folders. - • Memory card is full or not inserted. 39, 45 • CPU lens with aperture ring 307 attached but aperture not locked at highest f-number. If B is displayed in control panel, select Shutter-release - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 411
size can not be changed. [Image quality] set to [NEF (RAW)]. 56 • Unlock focus selector lock. 66 • Auto-area AF selected for focus 64 mode: choose another mode. Can not select focus point • The camera is in playback mode. 203 • The camera is in menu operation. 245 • Press shutter-release - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 412
Problem Solution Page • Camera is in focus mode C. 62 • Center focus point is not selected 64 for single-point AF or dynamic- area AF. AF-assist illuminator does • [Off ] selected for Custom Setting are unnatural. • Adjust [Set Picture Control] 146 settings. Can not measure white balance - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 413
can not be used. Choose exposure mode e, f, or g. 114 Reddish areas may appear in long Reddish areas appear in photos. time-exposures. Turn long exposure noise reduction on when shooting at shutter speeds of 262 "A". Only one shot taken each time shutter-release button is pressed - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 414
release mode. • Camera was pointed up or down 317 when photo was taken. Can not delete photo. Photo is protected: remove protection. 221 Message is displayed stating that no images are available Select [All] for [Playback folder]. 249 for playback. Can not change print order. Memory card - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 415
is performed can 319 not be used with photographs taken before image sensor cleaning is performed. Can not use Camera Control Pro 2. Set [USB] to [MTP/PTP]. 225 Third-party software does not display Computer displays effects of Picture Controls or active NEF (RAW) images differently - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 416
Miscellaneous Problem Solution Page Date of recording is not correct. Set camera clock. 37 Some options are not available at certain Menu item can not be selected. combinations of settings or when no memory card is inserted. Note that [Battery info] option is not available when camera 321 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 417
the indicators and error messages that appear in the viewfinder, control panel, and monitor. Indicator Control Viewpanel finder Problem Solution Page B (blinks) Lens aperture ring is Set ring to minimum not set to minimum aperture (largest 35 aperture. f-number). H d Low battery. Ready - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 418
from maximum aperture. - D Camera unable to (blinks) focus using autofocus. Focus manually. 71 • Use a lower ISO 94 sensitivity • In exposure mode: Subject too bright; q photo will be overexposed. e Use optional ND 367 filter f Increase shutter 106 speed g Choose a smaller 107 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 419
f-number) A (blinks) A selected in exposure mode f. Change shutter speed or select manual 106, 109 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 unit. 361 n 393 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 420
photos at current settings, or camera has run out of size. • Delete photographs. • Insert new memory file or folder numbers. card. 56, 60 248 39 Release shutter. If error O (blinks) persists or appears Camera malfunction. frequently, consult Nikon-authorized - service representative. n 394 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 421
Monitor panel Problem Solution Page No memory card. Camera cannot S detect memory card. Turn camera off and confirm that card is correctly inserted. 39 • Error accessing This memory memory card. card cannot be used. Card may be damaged. (blinks) Insert another card. • Unable to - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 422
panel Problem Solution Page This card is not formatted. Format the card. C (blinks) Memory card has not been formatted for use in camera. Format memory card or insert new memory card. 39, 41 Folder contains no images. Select folder No images on containing images - memory card or - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 423
Indicator Control Monitor panel Problem Solution Cannot select this file. - Memory card does not contain images that can be retouched. Images created with other devices can not be retouched. Check printer. - Printer error. Check printer. To resume, select [Continue] (if available). Check - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 424
Indicator Control Monitor panel Problem Solution Check ink supply. - Ink error. Check ink. To resume, select [Continue]. Out of ink. - Printer is out of ink. Replace ink and select [Continue]. * See printer manual for more information. Page 231 * 231 * n 398 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 425
Appendix The Appendix covers the following topics: • Defaults pg. 400 • Memory Card Capacity pg. 405 • Exposure Program pg. 407 • Aperture, Sensitivity, and Flash Range pg. 408 n 399 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 426
reset or using [Reset shooting menu] or [Reset custom settings]. ❚❚ Defaults Restored with a Two-Button Reset (pg. 182)1 Option Default [ISO sensitivity] (pg. 94) 200 [Image quality] (pg. 56) JPEG normal Shooting [Image size] (pg. 60) menu 2 [White balance] (pg. 126) L Auto Fine tuning - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 427
Off [Long exp. NR] (pg. 262) Off [High ISO NR] (pg. 263) Normal [ISO sensitivity settings] (pg. 94) [ISO sensitivity] (pg. 94) 200 [ISO sensitivity auto control] (pg. 96) Off [Live view] [Live view mode] (pg. 80) Hand-held [Release mode] (pg. 80) Single frame [Multiple exposure] (pg - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 428
] 0 [Center-weighted] 0 [Spot metering] 0 c1 [Shutter-release button AE-L] (pg. 279) Off c2 [Auto meter-off delay] (pg. 279) 6 s c3 [Self-timer delay] (pg. 280) 10 s c4 [Monitor off delay] (pg. 280) 20 s * Only the settings in the bank currently selected using the [Custom settings bank - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 429
Flash shutter speed] (pg. 290) e3 [Flash cntrl for built-in flash] (pg. 291) e4 [Modeling flash] (pg. 297) e5 [Auto bracketing set] (pg. 297) e6 [Auto bracketing] (Mode M)] (pg. 298) e7 [Bracketing order] (pg. 299) Default High Off On 3 fps 100 On Auto Off Off LR6 (AA alkaline) Use MB-D10 batteries - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 430
dials] (pg. 307) [Reverse rotation] (pg. 307) f7 [Change main/sub] (pg. 307) [Aperture setting] (pg. 307) [Menus and playback] (pg. 308) f8 [Release button to use dial] (pg. 308) f9 [No memory card?] (pg. 309) f10 [Reverse indicators] (pg. 310) Default Select center focus point Thumbnail on/off Do - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 431
Memory Card Capacity The following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on a 2 GB SanDisk Extreme III (SDCFX) 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 D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 432
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 on or ISO sensitivity is set - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 433
program for programmed auto is shown in the following graph: Aperture f/1.4 − f/16 ISO 200; lens with maximum aperture of Shutter speed The maximum and minimum values for EV vary with ISO sensitivity; the above graph assumes an ISO sensitivity of ISO 200 equivalent. When matrix metering is used - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 434
The built-in flash has a minimum range of 0.6 m (2 ft.). In programmed auto exposure mode (mode e), the maximum aperture (minimum f-number) is limited according to ISO sensitivity, as shown below: Maximum aperture at ISO equivalent of: 200 400 800 1600 3200 3.5 4 5 5.6 7.1 For each one - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 435
❚❚ Nikon D300 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 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 436
When depth of field preview button is pressed, lens aperture is stopped down to value selected by user (g and h modes) or by camera (e and f modes) Instant return, electronically controlled Lens Compatible lenses n • DX AF Nikkor: All functions supported • Type G or D AF Nikkor: All functions - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 437
TTL exposure metering using 1,005-segment RGB sensor Metering method • Matrix: 3D color matrix metering II (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering II (other CPU lenses); color matrix metering available with non-CPU lenses if user provides lens data • Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 438
finding 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 Number of 17/56 (m/ft, ISO 200 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 439
i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR using 1,005-segment RGB sensor are available with built-in flash and SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-400 • Auto aperture: Available with SB-900 or SB-800 and CPU lens • Non-TTL auto: Supported flash units include SB-900, SB-800, SB-28 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 440
comment (up to 36 characters) Interface USB Hi-Speed USB Video output Can be selected from NTSC and PAL HDMI output Version 1.3a with type A HDMI connector; camera monitor turns off when HDMI cable is connected Ten-pin remote terminal Can be used to connect optional remote control, GP-1 GPS - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 441
2.9 in.) Weight Approx. 825 g (1. 82 lb.) without battery, memory card, body cap, or monitor cover Operating environment Temperature 0-40 °C (32-104 °F) Humidity Less than 85% (no condensation) • Unless otherwise stated, all figures are for a camera with a fully-charged battery operating at - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 442
widely used in the digital camera industry to ensure compatibility among different makes of camera. • DPOF: Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) is an industry-wide standard that allows pictures to be printed from print orders stored on the memory card. • Exif version 2.21: The camera supports Exif - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 443
AF-S VR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED lens under the following test conditions: image quality set to JPEG basic, image size set to M (medium), shutter speed 1/250 s, shutter-release button pressed halfway for three seconds and focus cycled from infinity to minimum range three times; six shots are then taken in - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 444
can reduce battery life: • Using the monitor • Keeping the shutter-release button pressed halfway • Repeated autofocus operations • Taking NEF (RAW) or TIFF (RGB) photographs • Slow shutter speeds • Using the optional WT-4 wireless transmitter • Using the optional GP-1 GPS unit • Using VR (vibration - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 445
), 100, 101, 278 Z (Center-weighted), 100, 277, 278 b (Spot), 100, 278 e (Programmed auto), 104 f (Shutter-priority auto), 106 g (Aperture-priority auto), 107 h (Manual), 109 Q (Help), 24, 29 t (Memory buffer), 51 L (Preset manual), 127, 134 Numerics 1,005-segment RGB sensor, 126 3D color matrix - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 446
Camera Control Pro 2, 224, 225, 368 Capture NX, 56, 318, 368 Center-weighted, 100, 277, 278 [Center-weighted area], 277 [CL mode shooting speed], 282 [Clean image sensor], 373 Clock, 37, 315 battery 102 aperture-priority auto, 107 manual, 109 programmed auto, 104 shutter-priority auto, 106 program, - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 447
flash for digital SLR, 170 mode, 174 modeling, 103, 297 monitor pre-flash, 170, 179 range, 408 ready indicator, 90, 171, 179 sync speed, 106, 288, 289 sync terminal, 364 [Flash cntrl for built-in flash], 291 [Commander mode], 293 [Manual], 292 [Repeating flash], 292 [Flash shutter speed], 290 [Flash - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 448
Picture Control], 154 Manual, 62, 71, 81, 109 Mass Storage, 225 Matrix, 100, 101, 278 [Max. continuous release], 282 MB-D10, 274, 285, 287, 322, 365 [MB-D10 battery type], 285 Memory buffer, 51, 74, 77, 78 Memory card, 39, 312, 371 capacity of, 405 formatting, 41, 312 Metering, 100 center-weighted - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 449
[Page size], 238 [Start printing], 238 [Time stamp], 238 [Print set (DPOF)], 230 Printing, 230 Programmed auto, 104 Protecting photographs, 221 R Rear-curtain sync, 175 [Red-eye correction], 335 Red-eye reduction, 174 [Release button to use dial], 308 Release mode, 73 continuous, 74, 76 high speed - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 450
, 12, 284 Shooting menu, 254 [Shooting menu bank], 255 Shutter-priority auto, 106 Shutter-release button, 51, 52, 68, 112, 279 half press, 51, 52, 68, 112 [Shutter-release button AE-L], 279 [Side-by-side comparison], 342 Single-point AF, 64, 65 Size, 60 [Slide show], 252 [Frame interval], 252 Slide - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 451
[Daylight saving time], 37, 315 [Time zone], 37, 315 WT-4, 229, 365 425 - Nikon D300 | D300 User's Manual - Page 452
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 SB8K04(11) 6MB00211-04
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DIGITAL CAMERA
En
User's Manual