Nikon D3100 D3100 User's Manual

Nikon D3100 Manual

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  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 1
    DIGITAL CAMERA Reference Manual En
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 2
    warning is displayed in the viewfinder or monitor, find the solution here. i Troubleshooting ➜ Camera behaving unexpectedly? Find the solution here. 0 188-191 A For Your Safety Before using the camera for the first time, read the safety instructions in "For Your Safety" (0 ix-xiv). Help Use the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 3
    s Basic Photography and Playback ! Guide Mode x Live View y Recording and Viewing Movies k Release Mode z More on Photography (All Modes) t P, S, A, and M Modes I More on Playback Q Connections o The Playback Menu i The Shooting Menu g The Setup Menu u The Retouch Menu w Recent Settings n Technical
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 4
    camera focuses? Can I choose the focus point? i Image Quality and Size How do I take pictures for printing at large sizes? How can I get more pictures on the memory card? i Exposure Can I make photos brighter or darker? How do I preserve details in shadows and highlights? i Using the Flash Can I set
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 5
    default settings? Is there any way to stop the camera beeping? How do I get help for a menu or message? Connections How do I copy photos to a computer? How do I print photos? Can I print the date of recording on my photos? Maintenance and Optional Accessories What memory cards can I use? What lenses
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 6
    ...14 Charge the Battery ...14 Insert the Battery ...15 Attach a Lens...16 Basic Setup...18 Insert a Memory Card...20 Format the Memory Card ...21 Adjust Viewfinder Focus ...22 Basic Photography and Playback 23 "Point-and-Shoot" Photography (i and j Modes 23 Step 1: Turn the Camera On 23 Step
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 7
    50 Trimming Movies ...50 Saving Selected Frames...52 Release Mode 53 Choosing a Release Mode ...53 Self-Timer Mode...54 More on Photography (All Modes) 55 Focus ...55 Focus Mode...55 AF-Area Mode ...58 Focus Point Selection ...60 Focus Lock ...60 Manual Focus ...62 Image Quality and Size ...64
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 8
    89 Preset Manual ...90 Picture Controls...94 Selecting a Picture Control 94 Modifying Picture Controls 95 The GP-1 GPS Unit ...98 More on Playback 99 Full-Frame Playback...99 Photo Information...100 Thumbnail Playback ...105 Calendar Playback ...106 Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom 107
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 9
    Delay...143 Beep ...144 Rangefinder...144 File Number Sequence 145 Buttons...146 Slot Empty Release Lock 147 Date Imprint ...147 Storage Folder ...149 Eye-Fi Upload...150 Firmware Version...150 N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies 151 Creating Retouched Copies 152 D-Lighting ...153
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 10
    Accessories...176 Approved Memory Cards 177 Attaching a Power Connector and AC Adapter 178 Caring for the Camera...179 Storage ...179 Cleaning ...179 The Low-Pass Filter ...180 Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions 184 Available Settings...186 Memory Card Capacity ...187 Troubleshooting
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 11
    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. A Do not place the strap around the neck of an infant or child Placing the camera strap around the neck of an infant or child could result
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 12
    When connecting cables to the input and output jacks, use only the cables provided or sold by Nikon for the purpose to maintain compliance with product regulations. A CD-ROMs CD-ROMs containing software or manuals should not be played back on audio CD equipment. Playing CD-ROMs on an audio CD player
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 13
    REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT TYPE. DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE INSTRUCTIONS. This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately. The following apply only to users in European countries: • This product is designated for separate collection at an appropriate collection
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 14
    tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide D3100 the instructions, that are not expressly approved by Nikon may cause harmful interference to radio Corporation may void the user's authority
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 15
    Please note that deleting images or formatting memory cards or other data storage devices does not completely erase the original image data. Deleted files can sometimes be recovered from discarded storage devices using commercially available software, potentially resulting in the malicious use of
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 16
    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. Additional
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 17
    are particularly recommended if the camera is used professionally. Any accessories regularly used with the camera, such as lenses or optional flash units, should be included when the camera is inspected or serviced. A Camera Settings The explanations in this manual assume that default settings are
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 18
    12 Focal plane mark (E 63 13 Eyelet for camera strap 14 Microphone 46 15 Connector cover 16 Fn (function) button ...........146 17 Mounting mark 16 18 Lens release button 17 19 Mirror 182 20 Lens mount 63 21 Accessory shoe cover .........172 22 Accessory shoe (for optional flash units 172 23
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 19
    12 17 J (OK) button 12 18 Memory card access lamp 20, 26 19 Speaker 49 20 Power connector cover for optional power connector 178 21 Battery-chamber cover latch 15 22 Battery-chamber cover........ 15 23 O (delete) button Deleting pictures 31 Deleting pictures during playback 109 A The Power
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 20
    modes and g mode: X g Mode (0 33) Take and view pictures and adjust settings with the help of an on-screen guide. P, S, A, and M Modes Select these modes for full control over camera settings. • P-Programmed auto (0 74) • S-Shutter-priority auto (0 75) • A-Aperture-priority auto (0 76) • M-Manual
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 21
    takes a photograph about ten seconds after the shutter-release button is pressed. Use for self-portraits. J Quiet shutter release As for single frame, except that the camera makes no sound after shooting and that a beep does not sound when the camera focuses, keeping noise to a minimum in quiet
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 22
    connection indicator 150 8 Date imprint indicator ....... 147 9 Manual flash indicator ....... 135 Flash compensation indicator for optional flash units ... 175 10 Auto ISO sensitivity indicator 132 11 Picture Control 94 12 Release mode 5, 53 13 "Beep" indicator 144 14 Battery indicator 23 15
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 23
    rotates to match camera orientation. Monitor off A The Shutter-Speed and Aperture Displays These displays provide visual indications of shutter speed and aperture. Fast shutter speed, large aperture (small f-number). Slow shutter speed, small aperture (large f-number). While the mode dial is
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 24
    to adjust a variety of settings when shooting information is displayed in the monitor. M button X E button Fn button Choose a combination of aperture and shutter speed (mode P; 0 74). Choose a shutter speed (mode S or M; 0 75, 77). Mode dial Command dial Mode P Command dial Information
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 25
    Set exposure compensation (mode P, S, or A; 0 81). Mode P, S, or A Choose a flash mode (0 68). + E button Command dial + Information display X M button Command dial Adjust flash compensation (mode P, S, A, or M; 0 83). Information display + + P, S, A, or M M button E button Command dial
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 26
    points 60 2 Focus indicator 26, 63 3 Autoexposure (AE) lock indicator 80 4 Shutter speed 75, 77 5 Aperture (f-number) ......76, 77 6 Battery indicator 23 7 Number of exposures remaining 24 Number of shots remaining before memory buffer fills 53 White balance recording indicator 90 Exposure
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 27
    camera menus. To view the menus, press the G button. G button X Tabs Choose from the following menus: • D: Playback (0 129) • C: Shooting (0 131) • B: Setup (0 136) • N: Retouch (0 151) • m: Recent settings button A Guide Mode To display the on-screen guide, rotate the mode dial to g (0 33). 11
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 28
    Menus The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the camera menus. Move cursor up J button: select highlighted item Cancel and return to Select highlighted item or X previous menu display sub-menu Move cursor down Follow
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 29
    same effect as 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 (0 27). 13
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 30
    First Steps Charge the Battery The camera is powered by an EN-EL14 rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied). To maximize shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-24 battery charger before use. About 1 hour and 30 minutes are required to fully recharge the battery X when no charge remains.
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 31
    , confirm that the temperature is in the correct range and then unplug the charger and remove and reinsert the battery. If the problem persists, cease use immediately and take battery and charger to your retailer or a Nikon-authorized service representative. Do not attempt to charge a fully-charged
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 32
    used in this manual for illustrative purposes is an AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR. Focal length mark X Focal length scale Lens cap Mounting mark CPU contacts (0 168) Rear lens cap Focus ring (0 43, 62) Zoom ring 1 Turn the camera off. 2 Remove the rear lens cap and the camera body cap
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 33
    (VR) AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lenses support vibration reduction (VR), which reduces blur caused by camera shake even when the camera is panned, allowing shutter speeds to be slowed by approximately 3 EV at a focal length of 55 mm (Nikon measurements; effects vary with the user and
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 34
    camera is turned on. Choose a language and set the time and date. Photographs can not be taken until you have set the time and date. 1 Turn the camera Choose a date format. Press default; if daylight saving time is in effect in the local time zone, press 1 to highlight On and press J. 6 Set the date
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 35
    a month. If a message warning that the clock is not set is displayed when the camera is turned on, the clock battery is exhausted and the clock has been reset. Set the clock to the correct time and date. A The Camera Clock The camera clock is less accurate than most watches and household clocks
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 36
    Insert a Memory Card The camera stores pictures on Secure Digital (SD) memory cards (available separately; 0 177). 1 Turn the camera off. X A Inserting and Removing Memory Cards Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing memory cards. 2 Open the card slot cover. Slide the card slot
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 37
    until formatting is complete. D Memory Cards • Memory cards may be hot after use. Observe due caution when removing memory cards from the camera. • Turn the power off before inserting or removing memory cards. Do not remove memory cards from the camera, turn the camera off, or remove or disconnect
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 38
    above, select single-servo autofocus (AF-S; 0 55), single-point AF (c; 0 58), and the center focus point (0 60), and then frame a high-contrast subject in the center focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway to focus the camera. With the camera in focus, use the diopter adjustment
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 39
    the camera in control of other settings, rotate the mode dial to j to select auto (flash off) mode. Step 1: Turn the Camera On 1 Turn the camera on. Remove the lens cap and turn the camera on. The information display will appear in the monitor. 2 Check the battery level. Check the battery level
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 40
    shown as 1.2 K). If a warning is displayed stating that there is not s enough memory for additional photographs, insert another memory card (0 20) or delete some photos (0 31, 109). Step 2: Select i or j Mode To shoot where use of a flash is prohibited, photograph infants, or capture natural
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 41
    6G VR Lens In the case of the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR, changes to zoom can alter maximum aperture by up to 11/3 EV. The camera however automatically takes this into account when setting exposure, and no modifications to camera settings are required following adjustments to zoom. Focus
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 42
    focus. I (blinks) Camera unable to focus using autofocus. See page 56. In-focus indicator Buffer capacity While the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, the number of exposures that can be stored in the memory the shutter-release button is pressed halfway). Do not eject the memory card or
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 43
    Release Button The camera has a two-stage shutter-release button. The camera focuses when the shutterrelease button is pressed halfway. To take the photograph, press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down. A Auto-Meter Off Focus shutter-release button and try again. To save battery
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 44
    Creative Photography (Scene Modes) The camera offers a choice of "scene" modes. Choosing a scene mode automatically optimizes settings to suit the selected scene, making creative photography as simple as selecting a mode, framing a picture, and shooting as described on pages 23-27. ❚❚ The Mode
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 45
    and other small objects (a macro lens can be used to focus at very close ranges). Use of a tripod is recommended to prevent blur. m Sports release mode (0 5, 53). Use for a natural balance between the main subject and the background in portraits taken under low light. Use of a tripod is recommended
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 46
    additional pictures. Additional pictures can be displayed by pressing 4 or 2 or rotating the command dial. To view additional information on the current photograph, press 1 and 3 (0 100). To end playback and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. 1/ 12 NIKON D3100
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 47
    ; press the O button again to delete the image and return to playback (to exit without deleting the picture, press K). O button A Delete To delete selected images (0 110), all images taken on a selected date (0 111), or all images in the current playback folder (0 129), use the Delete option in the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 48
    s 32
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 49
    the mode dial is rotated to g. ! Battery indicator (0 23) Number of exposures remaining (0 24) Shooting mode: A guide mode indicator appears on the shooting mode icon. Choose from the following items: Shoot Take pictures. View/delete Set up View and/or delete pictures. Change camera settings
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 50
    movies "More Settings" If More settings is displayed, you can highlight this option and press 2 to access the following settings (the settings available vary with the shooting option selected): • Set Picture Control • Exposure comp. • Flash compensation • Flash mode • Release mode • ISO
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 51
    reduction Eye-Fi upload * * Only available when guide mode and are not reflected in other shooting modes. compatible Eye-Fi memory card is inserted (0 150). A Guide Mode Guide mode is reset to Easy operation > Auto when the mode dial is rotated to another setting or the camera is turned off. 35
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 52
    Turn monitor on G button Highlight a menu ! Press G to turn the monitor on or return to the top level of the guide. Press 4 or 2 to highlight a menu. Press 1 or 3 to highlight options in the menus. Highlight options Press 1, 3, 4, or 2 to highlight options in displays like that shown
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 53
    the lens will be displayed in the camera monitor. The subject will no longer be visible in the viewfinder. x Live view switch q w i o !0 Item Description 0 q Shooting mode The mode currently selected with the mode dial. Select i or 23, 28, j for automatic scene selection (autofocus only
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 54
    continuously during AF-F Full-time servo AF live view and movie recording. Shutter can only be released x MF Manual focus if camera is able to focus. Focus manually (0 43). The description in Steps 3, 4, and 5 assumes that AF-S or AF-F is selected. If MF is selected, proceed to Step 6 after
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 55
    point. Face-priority AF: A double yellow border will be displayed when the camera detects a portrait subject facing the camera (if multiple faces, up to a maximum of 35, are detected, the camera will focus on the closest subject; to choose a different subject, press the multi selector up, down
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 56
    the camera focuses. If the camera is able to focus, the focus point will be displayed in green; if the camera is unable to focus, the focus point will blink red. Note that pictures can be taken even when the focus point blinks red. Check focus in the monitor before shooting. Except in i and j modes
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 57
    Selection (Scene Auto Selector) If live view is selected in i or j mode, the camera will automatically analyze the subject and select the appropriate shooting mode when autofocus is enabled. The selected mode is shown in the monitor. t Portrait Human portrait subjects u Landscape Landscapes and
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 58
    will turn off and the video device will display the view through the lens as shown at right. Movies can not be recorded and photographs can not be taken in live view while the camera is connected to an HDMI-CEC device. x D Shooting in Live View Mode To prevent light entering via the viewfinder
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 59
    when the camera is unable to focus. A Manual Focus To focus in manual focus mode (0 62), rotate the lens focus ring until the subject is in focus. To magnify the view in the monitor up to about 6.8 × for precise focus, press the X button. While the view through the lens is zoomed in, a navigation
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 60
    x 44
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 61
    be recorded. A Before Recording Set aperture before recording in mode A or M. Live view switch y 2 Choose a focus mode. Press the P button and select a focus mode as described in Step 2 of "Live View" (0 38). A Camera Noise The camera may record lens noise during autofocus or vibration reduction
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 62
    (0 81). Focus can be locked by pressing the shutter-release button halfway. Movie record button Recording indicator 6 y End recording. Press the movie-record button again to end recording. Recording will end automatically when the maximum length is reached, or the memory card is full
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 63
    press 2, then highlight an option and press J. To turn sound recording on or off, highlight Sound and press 2, then highlight an option and press J. A Movie Settings > Quality The 1280 × 720; 30 fps, 1280 × 720; 25 fps, and 1280 × 720; 24 fps options have different frame rates. • 1280 × 720; 30 fps
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 64
    is high y • The camera has been used for extended periods in live view or to record movies • The camera has been used in continuous release mode for extended periods If D The Count-Down Display A count down will be displayed in red 30 s before movie recording ends automatically (0 37). Depending on
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 65
    length The following operations can be performed: To Use Volume Guide Description Pause Pause playback. y Play J Resume playback or K to exit to full-frame playback. Exit to shooting mode Press shutter-release button halfway. Monitor will turn off; photographs can be taken immediately
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 66
    Trimming Movies To create trimmed copies of movies: 1 Display a movie full frame. Press the K button to display pictures full frame in the monitor and press 4 and 2 to scroll through pictures until the movie you y wish to edit is displayed. K button 2 Choose a starting or end point. Play the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 67
    the current position will be displayed in red in Step 5 and no copy will be created. The copy will not be saved if there is insufficient space available on the memory card. To prevent the camera from turning off unexpectedly, use a fully-charged battery when editing movies. A The Retouch Menu Movies
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 68
    Saving Selected Frames To save a copy of a selected frame as a JPEG still: 1 View the movie and choose a frame. Play the movie back as described on page 49. Pause the movie at the frame you intend to copy. 2 Display the retouch menu. Press the AE-L/AF-L button to display the retouch menu. AE-L/AF-L
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 69
    desired setting. 8 Single frame (0 5) I Continuous (0 5) E Self-timer (0 54) J Quiet shutter release (0 5) Release-mode selector A The Memory Buffer The camera is equipped with a memory buffer for temporary storage, allowing shooting to continue while photographs are being saved to the memory card
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 70
    of the way down to start the self-timer (note that the timer will not start if the camera is unable to focus or in other situations in which the shutter can not be released). The self-timer lamp will start to blink and a beep will begin to sound. Two seconds before the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 71
    on Photography (All Modes) Focus This section describes the focus options available when photographs are framed in the viewfinder. Focus can be adjusted automatically or manually (see "Focus Mode," below). The user can also select the focus point for automatic or manual focus (0 62) or use focus
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 72
    a focus mode. Highlight a focus mode and press J. To return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. D Continuous-servo Autofocus In AF-C mode or when continuous-servo autofocus is selected in AF-A mode, the camera gives higher priority to focus response (has a wider focus range
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 73
    manual focus or if live view is off and continuous-servo autofocus is selected (AF-C selected for focus mode, or continuous-servo AF selected in AF-A focus mode) • If the center focus using the illuminator, use a lens with a focal length of 18-200 mm and remove the lens hood. The AF- assist
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 74
    moving subjects. In AF-S focus mode, user selects focus point manually (0 60); camera focuses on subject in selected focus point only. e Auto-area AF Camera automatically detects subject and selects focus point. In AF-A and AF-C focus modes, user selects focus point using multi selector (0 60
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 75
    other than P, S, A, or M are reset when another shooting mode is selected. A 3D-tracking (11 Points) When the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, the colors in the area surrounding the focus point are stored in the camera. Consequently 3D-tracking may not produce the desired results with
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 76
    be used to change the composition after focusing in AF-A, AF-S, and AF-C focus modes (0 55), making it possible to focus on a subject that will not be in a focus point in the final composition. If the camera is unable to focus using autofocus (0 56), you can also focus on another subject at the same
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 77
    shots if you keep the shutter-release button pressed halfway z (AF-S) or keep the AE-L/AF-L button pressed, allowing several photographs in succession to be taken at the same focus setting. Do not change the distance between the camera and the subject while focus lock is in effect. If the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 78
    Photographs can be taken at any time, even when the image is not in focus. A Selecting Manual Focus with the Camera Manual focus can also be selected by setting the camera focus mode to MF (manual focus; 0 55). Focus can then be adjusted manually, z regardless of the mode selected with the lens. 62
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 79
    focal plane mark on the camera body. The distance between the lens mounting flange and the focal plane is 46.5 mm (1.83 in.). 46.5 mm Focal plane mark A The Exposure Indicator If desired, the exposure indicator can be used to determine whether the focus point for z manual focus is in front of
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 80
    memory card. Larger, higher quality images can be printed at larger sizes but also require more memory, meaning that fewer such images can be stored on the memory card from the image sensor are saved directly to the memory NEF (RAW) NEF card. Settings such as white balance and contrast can be
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 81
    not affect the size of NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW)+JPEG images. Date imprint (0 147) is not available at image quality settings of NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW)+JPEG. NEF (RAW) images can be viewed on the camera or using software such as Capture NX 2 (available separately; 0 177) or ViewNX 2 (available on the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 82
    2,304 × 1,536 19.5 × 13/7.7 × 5.1 * Approximate size when printed at 300 dpi. Print size in inches equals image size in pixels divided by printer resolution in dots an option and press J. To return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. A The Shooting Menu Image size can
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 83
    Built-in Flash The camera supports a variety of flash modes for photographing poorly lit or backlit subjects. ❚❚ Using the Built-in Flash: i, k, p, n, and o Modes 1 Choose a flash mode (0 68). 2 Take pictures. The flash will pop up as required when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 84
    Flash Mode The flash modes available vary with shooting mode: No NYo j i, k, p, n Auto Auto +red-eye reduction Off NYr Nr j o Auto + slow sync + red-eye reduction Auto + slow sync Off P, A S, M N Fill flash N Fill flash NY Red-eye reduction NY Red-eye reduction NYp Slow sync+red-eye
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 85
    can be used with the built-in flash, see page 170. Remove lens hoods to prevent shadows. The flash has a minimum range of 0.6 m (2 ft.) and can not be used in the macro range of macro zoom lenses. The shutter release may be briefly disabled to protect the flash after it has been used for
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 86
    Built-in Flash Shutter speed is restricted to the following ranges when the built-in flash is used: Mode i, p, n, P, A o Shutter speed 1/200-1/60 s 1/200-1 s Mode k, S M Shutter speed 1/200-30 s 1/200-30 s, bulb A Aperture, Sensitivity, and Flash Range Flash range varies with sensitivity (ISO
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 87
    "ISO sensitivity" is the digital equivalent of film speed. Choose from settings that range from a value EV (Hi 2, equivalent to ISO 12800). Auto and scene modes also offer an AUTO option, which allows the camera to set ISO sensitivity automatically in response to lighting conditions; AUTO is
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 88
    dial is rotated to P, S, A, or M after AUTO is selected for ISO sensitivity in another mode, the ISO sensitivity last selected in P, S, A, or M mode will be restored. A Hi 1/Hi 2 Pictures taken at these settings are more likely to be subject to noise (randomly-spaced bright pixels, fog, or lines
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 89
    auto (0 76) User chooses aperture; camera selects shutter speed for best results. Use to blur background or bring both foreground and background into focus. M Manual (0 77) User controls both shutter speed and aperture. Set shutter speed to "bulb" for long time-exposures. D Lens Aperture Rings
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 90
    in most situations. This mode is recommended for snapshots and other situations in which you want to leave the camera in charge of shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in programmed auto: 1 Rotate the mode dial to P. Mode dial 2 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. A Flexible Program
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 91
    to S. Slow shutter speed (1 s) Mode dial 2 Choose a shutter speed. Shutter speed is shown in the viewfinder and t information display. Rotate the command dial to choose the desired shutter speed from values between 30 s and 1/4,000 s. Command dial 3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. 75
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 92
    A. Small aperture (f/22) Mode dial t 2 Choose an aperture. Aperture is shown in the viewfinder and information display. Rotate the command dial to choose the desired aperture from values between the minimum and maximum for the lens. Command dial 3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. 76
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 93
    shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in manual exposure mode: 1 Rotate the mode dial to M. Mode dial 2 Choose aperture and shutter speed. button Command dial 3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot. A The Exposure Indicator If a CPU lens is attached and a shutter speed other than
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 94
    optional MC-DC2 remote cord (0 177) is recommended to prevent blur. Length of exposure: 35 s Aperture: f/25 1 Ready the camera. Mount the camera on a tripod or place it on a stable, level surface. To prevent loss of power before the exposure is complete, use a fully charged EN-EL14 battery or an
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 95
    area. Classic meter for portraits; recommended when using filters with an exposure factor (filter factor) over 1×. Camera meters current focus point; use to meter off-center subjects (if e Auto- N Spot area AF is selected for AF-area mode during viewfinder photography as described on page 58
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 96
    photographs after metering exposure: 1 Set metering to M or N (0 79). L will not produce the desired results. Note that autoexposure lock is not available in i or j mode. 2 Lock exposure. Position the subject in the selected focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway. With the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 97
    used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker. It is most effective when used mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. Normal exposure can be restored by setting exposure compensation to ±0. Exposure compensation is not reset when the camera
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 98
    A The E Button Exposure compensation can also be set by pressing the E button and rotating the command dial. The selected value is shown in the viewfinder and information display. E button Command dial -0.3 EV +2 EV A Mode M In mode M, exposure compensation affects only the exposure indicator;
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 99
    in the information display and press J. t 3 Choose a value. Highlight a value and press J. To return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway. Normal flash output can be restored by setting flash compensation to ±0. Flash compensation is not reset when the camera is turned off. 83
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 100
    A The Y (M) and E Buttons Flash compensation can also be set by rotating the command dial while pressing the Y (M) and E units. The SB-900, SB-800, and SB-600 also allow flash compensation to be set using the controls on the flash unit. The flash compensation selected with the optional flash unit
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 101
    , the camera automatically adjusts Active D-Lighting during shooting to preserve details in highlights and shadows, creating photographs with natural contrast. Use for high contrast scenes, for example when photographing brightly lit outdoor scenery through a door or window or taking pictures of
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 102
    D Active D-Lighting Noise (randomly-spaced bright pixels, fog, or lines) may appear in photographs taken with Active D-Lighting. Uneven shading may be visible with some subjects. A "Active D-Lighting" Versus "D-Lighting" The Active D-Lighting option in the shooting menu adjusts exposure before
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 103
    balance is recommended for most light sources; in P, S, A, and M modes, other values daylight with subjects in the shade. L Preset manual Measure white balance or copy white balance from existing balance options. Highlight the current white balance setting in the information display and press J. 3
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 104
    , light sources with a lower color temperature, such as incandescent light bulbs, appear slightly yellow or red. Light sources with a higher color temperature appear tinged with blue. The camera white balance options are adapted to the following color temperatures: • I (sodium-vapor lamps): 2,700
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 105
    2 Select a white balance option. Highlight an option other than Preset manual and press 2 (if Fluorescent is selected, highlight a lighting type and . For example, moving the cursor to B (blue) when a "warm" setting such as J (incandescent) is selected will make photographs slightly "colder" but
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 106
    setting preset white balance: Method Description Measure Neutral gray or white object is placed under lighting that will be used in final photo and white balance measured by camera (see below). Use photo White balance is copied from photo on memory card Preset manual. Highlight Preset manual and
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 107
    so that it fills the viewfinder and press the shutter-release button all the way down. No photograph will be recorded; white balance can be measured accurately even when the camera is not in focus. 6 Check the results. If the camera was able to measure a value for white balance, the message
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 108
    the displays are flashing, direct measurement mode will end when the exposure meters turn off. The auto meter-off delay can be changed using the Auto off timers option in the setup menu (0 143). The default setting is eight seconds. D Preset White Balance The camera can store only one value for
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 109
    below to copy a value for white balance from a photograph on the memory card. 1 Select Preset manual. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight White balance button. 6 Copy white balance. Press J to set preset white balance to the white balance value for the highlighted photograph. 93
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 110
    Controls Nikon's unique Picture Control system makes it possible to share image processing settings, including sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue, among compatible devices and software. Selecting a Picture Control The camera offers six Picture Controls. In P, S, A, and M modes
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 111
    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 Display the Picture Control menu. To display the menus, press the G button. Highlight Set Picture Control in the shooting menu and
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 112
    Off (the default setting), yellow, orange, red, and green (0 97). Toning Choose the tint used in monochrome photographs from B&W (black-andwhite), Sepia, Cyanotype (blue-tinted monochrome), Red, Yellow, Green, Blue Green, Blue, Purple Blue, Red Purple (0 97). Manual adjustments Manual adjustments
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 113
    Release the X button to return to the Picture Control menu. The icons for Picture Controls that use auto contrast and saturation are displayed in green in the Picture Control grid, and lines appear parallel to the axes of the grid. A Previous Settings red t R Red black-and-white) is selected. 97
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 114
    be connected to the camera's accessory terminal (0 177) using the cable supplied with the GP-1, allowing information on the camera's current position to be recorded when photographs are taken. Turn the camera off before connecting the GP-1; for more information, see the GP-1 manual. ❚❚ Setup Menu
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 115
    View photo information View thumbnails Zoom in on photograph Delete images Change protect status Return to shooting mode Display menus Retouch photo or 100). See page 105 for more information on the thumbnail display. See page 107 for more information on playback zoom. Confirmation dialog will
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 116
    D3100 1/12 Highlights MTR, SPD, AP. EXP. MODE, I SO FOCAL LENGTH LENS AF / VR FLASH TYPE SYNC MODE , : , 1/ 250 ,F11 : , 100 : -1. 3 : 35mm : 18-55 / 3. 5-5. 6 : A / VR-On : Bu i l t - i n : : TTL , +1. 0 N I KON D3100 Time of recording 18 4 5 8 Date of recording 18 9 Folder name 149 100
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 117
    press X. Use the X and W buttons to zoom in and out and scroll the image with the multi selector. The histogram will be updated to show only the data for the portion of the image visible in the monitor. A Histograms Camera histograms are intended as a guide only and may differ from those displayed
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 118
    1 1 12 3 MTR, SPD, AP. : , 1/ 250 ,F11 4 EXP. MODE, I SO : , 100 5 : -1. 3 6 FOCAL LENGTH : 35mm 7 LENS : 18-55 / 3. 5-5. 6 8 AF / VR : A / VR-On 9 FLASH TYPE : Bu i l t - i n 10 SYNC MODE, : 11 , : TTL , +1. 0 N I KON D3100 1/12 12 13 1 Protect status 108 I 2 Retouch
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 119
    Noise reduction 134 I 4 Active D-Lighting 2 85 5 Retouch history 151 6 Image comment 140 7 Camera name N I KON D3100 7 8 Frame number/total number of images 1/12 8 1 Displayed only if Data is selected for Display mode > Detailed photo info (0 130). 2 AUTO is displayed if photo was taken with
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 120
    12 NIKON D3100 17 26 1/ 250 F11 100 35mm 18 -1. 3 +1. 0 25 19 24 100D3100 DSC_0001. JPG NORMAL 15/04/2010 10 : 02 : 27 4608x3072 23 22 21 20 17 Picture Control 94 18 Active D-Lighting 85 19 File name 65 20 Image quality 64 21 Image size 66 22 Time of recording 18 23 Date of
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 121
    status of highlighted photo Return to shooting mode Display menus J O L (A) dial to highlight images for full-frame playback, playback zoom (0 107), deletion (0 109), or protection (0 108 108 for more information. I Press shutter-release button halfway. Monitor will turn off; photographs can
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 122
    mode Display menus Use W X J O L (A) G Description Press W button in date list to place cursor in thumbnail list. Press again to return to date list. • Date list: Exit to 72-frame playback. • Thumbnail list: Press and hold X button to zoom in on highlighted picture. • Date list: Highlight date
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 123
    to view same location in other images at current zoom ratio. Cancel zoom J Cancel zoom and return to full-frame playback. Change protect status L (A) See page 108 for more information. I Return to shooting mode Press shutter-release button halfway. Monitor will turn off; photographs can be
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 124
    option in the playback menu. Note that protected images will be deleted when the memory card is formatted (0 21). To protect a photograph: 1 Select an image. Display the image in full-frame playback or playback zoom or highlight it in the thumbnail list in thumbnail or calendar playback. Full-frame
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 125
    playback or the photograph highlighted in the thumbnail list, press the O button. To delete multiple selected photographs, all photographs taken on a selected date, or all photographs in the current playback folder, use the Delete option in the playback menu. Once deleted, photographs can not be
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 126
    of images, some time may be required for deletion. Option Description Q Selected Delete selected pictures. n Select date Delete all pictures taken on a selected date. R All Delete all pictures in the folder currently selected for playback (0 129). ❚❚ Selected: Deleting Selected Photographs
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 127
    selector to scroll through the pictures, or press and hold X to view the current picture full screen. Press W to return to the date list. W button 3 Select the highlighted date. Press 2 to select all pictures taken on the highlighted date. Selected dates are marked with a M icon. Repeat
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 128
    Transition effects and choose from I the following options: • Zoom/fade: Frames fade into one another with a zoom effect. • Cube: This transition takes the form of a rotating cube with the current picture on one face and the next picture on another. • None: No transition between frames. 112
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 129
    J Pause show. Press again to resume. G See page 129 for more information. K End show and return to playback mode. Press shutter-release button halfway. Monitor will turn off; photographs can be taken immediately. The dialog shown at right is displayed when the show ends. Select Restart to
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 130
    I 114
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 131
    is fully charged. If in doubt, charge the battery before use or use an EH-5a AC adapter and EP-5A power connector (available separately). ❚❚ Supplied Software ViewNX 2 includes a "Nikon Transfer 2" function for copying pictures from the camera to the computer, where ViewNX 2 can be used to view
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 132
    connectors at an angle. D USB Hubs Connect the camera directly to the computer; do not connect the cable via a USB hub or keyboard. 4 Turn the camera on. 5 Transfer photographs. Q After following the on-screen instructions to start Nikon Transfer 2, click the Start Transfer button to transfer
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 133
    photographs for printing using Print set (DPOF) (0 124) Connect camera to printer (see below) Print photographs one at a Print multiple photographs time (0 118) (0 120) Create index prints (0 123) Disconnect USB cable A Printing Via Direct USB Connection Be sure the EN-EL14 battery is fully
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 134
    displayed in the monitor, followed by a PictBridge playback display. q w Printing Pictures One at a Time 1 Select a picture. Press 4 or 2 to view additional pictures, or press 1 or 3 to view photo information (0 100). Press the X button to zoom in on the current frame (0 107; press K to exit
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 135
    select and return to previous menu. Only options supported by current printer will be displayed. Time stamp Menu shown at right will be displayed. Press 1 or 3 to choose Printer default (print using current printer settings), Print time stamp (print time and date of recording on photo), or No time
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 136
    taken on a selected date. • Print (DPOF): Print an existing print order created with the Print set (DPOF) option in the playback menu (0 124). The current print order will be displayed in Step 3. To create an index print of all JPEG pictures on the memory card, select Index print. See page 123
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 137
    to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture full screen, press and hold the X button. To select the current picture for printing, press the W button and press 1. The picture will be marked with a Z icon and the number of prints will be set to 1. Keeping the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 138
    supported by current printer are not listed). Press 1 or 3 to choose print style from Printer Border default (print at current printer settings), Print with border (print choose Time Printer default (print at current printer settings), Print time stamp (print time stamp and date of recording on
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 139
    create an index print of all JPEG pictures on the memory card, select Index print in Step 2 of "Printing Multiple Pictures" (0 120). Note that if the memory card contains more than 256 pictures, only the first 256 images will be printed. 1 Select Index print. Selecting Index print in the PictBridge
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 140
    to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture in full screen, press and hold the X button. To select the current picture for printing, press the W button and press 1. The picture will be marked with a Z icon and the number of prints will be set to 1. Keeping the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 141
    options are not supported when printing via direct USB connection; to print the date of recording on photographs in the current print order, use the PictBridge Time stamp option. The Print set (DPOF) option can not be used if there is not enough space on the memory card to store the print order. NEF
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 142
    no image is displayed, check that camera is correctly connected and that the option selected for Video mode (0 139) matches the video standard used in the TV. A Television Playback Use of an EH-5a AC adapter and EP-5A power connector (available separately) is recommended for extended playback. 126
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 143
    can be connected to HDMI devices using a type C mini-pin HDMI cable (available separately from third-party suppliers). 1 Turn the camera off. Always turn the camera off before connecting or disconnecting an HDMI cable. 2 Connect the HDMI cable as shown. Connect to high-definition device (choose
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 144
    to enable the camera for remote control from devices that support HDMI-CEC ( when the camera is connected to a television that supports HDMI-CEC and both the camera and television the television remote can not be used to control the camera. A HDMI-CEC Devices When the camera is connected to
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 145
    mode Default 0 Option - 110 Rotate tall Current 129 Slide show - Frame interval Detailed photo info - 130 Transition effects Transition effects Image review Slide in Print set (DPOF) On 130 Default 0 Off 130 - 2 s 112 Zoom photo is taken. If a memory card is inserted and this option
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 146
    appropriate orientation during shooting, images are not rotated automatically during image review. o Option Description "Tall" (portrait-orientation) pictures are automatically rotated for display in the On camera monitor. Pictures taken with Off selected for Auto image rotation (0 141) will be
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 147
    for Reset shooting options also restores Picture Control settings to their i default values (0 95) and resets the following: Option Default 0 Option Default 0 Focus point * Center 60 Flash mode Flexible program AE-L/AF-L button hold Focus mode Off 74 i, k, p, n Off 146 o Auto front
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 148
    Settings Adjust ISO sensitivity (0 71). G button ➜ C shooting menu ❚❚ Auto ISO Sensitivity If Off is chosen for Auto ISO sensitivity in P, S, A, and M modes, ISO sensitivity will remain fixed at the value selected by the user set to ISO 100). In modes user is user modes (available with the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 149
    space automatically. If the application or device does not support DCF, select the appropriate color space manually. For more information, see the documentation provided with the application or device. A Nikon Software ViewNX 2 (supplied) and Capture NX 2 (available separately) automatically
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 150
    illuminator will not light to assist the focus operation. The camera may not be able to focus using autofocus when lighting is poor. A See Also See page 171 for restrictions on the lenses that can be used with AF assist. See page 186 for the shooting modes in which the AF-assist illuminator can
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 151
    be selected from TTL and Manual. A Flash Control The following types of flash control are supported when a CPU lens is used in combination with the built-in flash or optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400 flash units (0 67, 172). • i-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLR: Information from the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 152
    Firmware version - 150 1 Not available when battery is low. 2 Default varies with country of purchase. 3 Only available when compatible Eye-Fi memory card is inserted (0 150). g Reset Setup Options G button ➜ B setup menu Select Yes to reset setup menu all settings except Video mode, Flicker
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 153
    for the information display (0 6). Classic (0 138) 1 Select a format. Highlight an option and press 2. Graphic (0 6) 2 Select a background color. Highlight a background color and press J. Choose from blue, black, or orange (Classic) or green, black, or brown (Graphic). g 137
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 154
    22 Release mode 5, 53 23 Auto-area AF indicator ........ 58 3D-tracking indicator........... 58 Focus point 60 24 Eye-Fi connection indicator 150 25 Battery indicator 23 26 "Beep" indicator 144 27 Number of exposures remaining 24 28 Picture Control 94 A Rotating the Camera When the camera is
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 155
    new time zone. Date and time Set the camera clock (0 18). Date format Choose the order in which the day, month, and year are displayed. g 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
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 156
    Language G button ➜ B setup menu Choose a language for camera menus and messages. The following options are available: Option Description Czech Danish German English Spanish French Indonesian Option Description Italian Dutch Norwegian Polish Portuguese Russian
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 157
    (available separately; for more information, see the Capture NX 2 manual). Dust off ref photo is available only when a CPU lens is mounted on the camera. A lens with a focal length of at least 50 mm is recommended. When using a zoom lens, zoom all the way in. 1 Choose a start option. Highlight one
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 158
    With the lens about ten centimeters (four inches) from a well-lit, featureless white object, frame the object so that it fills the viewfinder and then press the shutter-release button halfway. In autofocus mode, focus will automatically be set to infinity; in manual focus mode, set focus to infinity
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 159
    ). Choose shorter auto-off delays to reduce the drain on the battery. Option Description (all times are approximate) Auto-off timers are set to the following values: C Short D Normal E Long Short Normal Playback/menus 8s 12 s Image review 4s 4s Live view 30 s 30 s Long 20 s 20 s 3 min
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 160
    timer is counting down in self-timer mode (0 54, 55). The beep will not sound when Off is selected. In quiet shutter release mode (mode J; 0 5, 53), this option is not available and a beep will not sound when the camera focuses. The current setting is shown in the information display: 3 is displayed
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 161
    number used when a new folder is created, the memory card is formatted, or a new memory card is inserted in the camera. Option Description When a new folder is created, the memory card formatted, or a new memory card inserted in the camera, file numbering continues from the last number used or
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 162
    The item currently selected is shown by a white-on-black icon in the information display. Option Description v Image autofocus. The A AF-ON g shutter-release button can not be used to focus except when AF-F is selected in live view or during movie recording. ❚❚ AE Lock At the default setting
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 163
    button is only enabled when a memory card is inserted in the camera. Selecting Enable release allows the shutter to be released when no memory card is inserted, although no pictures will be recorded (they will however be displayed in the monitor in demo mode). Date Imprint G button ➜ B setup menu
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 164
    2, and enter the date. To use the stored date, highlight the slot and press J. To choose a date counter format, highlight Display options and press 2 to display the menu shown at right. Highlight an option and press J. Highlight Done in the date counter menu and press J when settings are complete
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 165
    or changing the folder name. D Folder Names On the memory card, folder names are preceded by a three-digit folder number assigned automatically by the camera (e.g., 100D3100). Each folder can contain up to 999 photographs. During shooting, pictures are stored in the highest-numbered folder with the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 166
    Video, and Connect X2 product categories, and 8 GB SDHC cards in the Pro X2 and Explore X2 product categories. Eye-Fi cards are for use only in the country of purchase. Be sure the Eye-Fi card firmware has been updated to the latest version. Firmware Version View the current camera firmware version
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 167
    memory card, and is only available when a memory card containing photographs is inserted in the camera. Option 0 Option 0 Option 0 i D-Lighting 153 0 Small picture 156 ) Fisheye 162 j Red . Time stamps added with Date Imprint (0 147) may however be cropped out or illegible depending on the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 168
    To create a retouched copy: 1 Display retouch options. Highlight the desired item in the retouch menu and press 2. 2 Select a picture. Highlight a picture and press J. A Retouch The camera may not be able to display or retouch images created with other devices. 3 Select retouch options. For more
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 169
    to other areas of frame. Navigation window is displayed when zoom buttons or multi selector is pressed; area currently visible Cancel zoom J in monitor is indicated by yellow border. Press J to cancel zoom. u If the camera detects red-eye in the selected photograph, a copy will Create copy J be
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 170
    × 480 16 : 9 3,840 × 2,160, 3,200 × 1,800, 2,560 × 1,440, 1,920 × 1,080, 1,280 × 720, 960 × 536, 640 × 360 Monochrome Copy photographs in Black-and-white, Sepia, or Cyanotype (blue and white monochrome). G button ➜ N retouch menu u Selecting Sepia or Cyanotype displays a preview of the selected
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 171
    Warm filter Description Creates the effect of a skylight filter, making the picture less blue. The effect can be previewed in the monitor as shown the copy a "warm" red cast. The effect can be previewed in the monitor. Red intensifier Intensify reds (Red intensifier), greens (Green Green
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 172
    effect is displayed in the monitor together with red, green, and blue histograms (0 101) Zoom To zoom in on the image displayed in the monitor, press the X button. The histogram will be updated create small copies of multiple selected pictures, press G, select Small picture in the retouch menu tab,
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 173
    creating copies, highlight No and press J, or press G to exit to the retouch menu. A Viewing Small Pictures Small pictures are indicated by a gray border. Playback zoom is not available when small pictures are displayed. Note that because small copies do not have the same aspect ratio as the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 174
    ; the results, which make use of RAW data from the camera image sensor, are noticeably better than overlays created in an imaging application. The new picture is saved at current image quality and size settings; before creating an overlay, set image quality and size (0 64, 66; all options are
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 175
    or 3 to set gain for the selected image to values between 0.1 and 2.0. Repeat for the second image. The default value is 1.0; date of recording, metering, shutter speed, aperture, shooting mode, exposure compensation, focal length, and image orientation) and values for white balance and Picture
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 176
    2 to display a picture selection dialog listing only NEF (RAW) images created with this camera. 2 Select a set to the values currently selected in shooting mode. Note that white balance is not available with pictures created with image overlay, and that exposure compensation can only be set
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 177
    camera correct distortion automatically and then make fine adjustments using the multi selector, or select Manual to reduce distortion manually Auto is for use only with pictures taken with type G and D lenses (PC, fisheye, and certain other lenses excluded). Results are not guaranteed with other
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 178
    Fisheye G button ➜ N retouch menu Create copies that appear to have been taken with a fisheye lens. Press 2 to increase the effect (this also increases the amount that will be cropped out at the edges of the image), 4 to reduce it. Press J
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 179
    Miniature Effect G button ➜ N retouch menu Create a copy that appears to be a photo of a diorama. Works best with photos taken from a high vantage point. To Press Description Choose area in focus If photo is displayed in wide orientation, press 1 or 3 to position frame showing area of copy
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 180
    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 , press 1 or 3 to view the other copies. To exit to playback mode, press the K button, or press J to return to playback with the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 181
    G and select the m (recent settings) tab. G button The recent settings menu lists the twenty most recently used settings. Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select. A Removing Items from the Recent Settings Menu To remove an item from the recent settings menu, highlight it and press
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 182
    w 166
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 183
    AF-I CPU lenses only. AF-S lenses have names beginning with AF-S, AF-I lenses names beginning with AF-I. Autofocus is not supported with other autofocus (AF) lenses. The features available with compatible CPU lenses are listed below: Camera setting Focus Mode Metering Lens/accessory MF (with
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 184
    A Identifying CPU and Type G and D Lenses CPU lenses can be identified by the presence of CPU contacts, type G and D lenses by a letter on the lens barrel. Type G lenses are not equipped with a lens aperture ring. CPU contacts Aperture ring CPU lens Type G lens Type D lens n 168
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 185
    release. Aperture must be adjusted manually via the lens aperture ring and the camera metering system, i-TTL flash control, and other features requiring a CPU lens can not be used. Some non-CPU lenses can not be used; see "Incompatible Accessories and Non-CPU Lenses," below. Camera setting Focus
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 186
    lenses at ranges less than those given below: Lens AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED AF-S 16-35mm f/4G VR AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S Zoom-Nikkor 17-35mm f/2.8D IF-ED AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED AF Zoom-Nikkor 18
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 187
    of a 35mm camera is approximately 1.5 times that of the D3100. The approximate focal length of lenses for the D3100 in 35mm format can be calculated by multiplying the focal length of the lens by about 1.5. Picture size (35mm format) (36 × 24 mm) Lens Picture diagonal Picture size (D3100) (23
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 188
    Optional Flash Units (Speedlights) The camera supports the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) and can be used with CLS-compatible flash units. Optional flash units can be attached directly to the camera accessory shoe as described below. The accessory shoe is equipped with a safety lock for flash
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 189
    ., 20 °C (68 °F), SB-900, SB-800 and SB-600 at 35 mm zoom head position; SB-900 with standard illumination. • The SU-800 wireless speedlight commander: When mounted on a CLS-compatible camera, the SU-800 can be used as a commander for remote SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 flash units in
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 190
    flash unit only. 2 Flash mode is automatically set to TTL and shutter-release is disabled. Set flash unit to A (non-TTL auto flash). 3 Autofocus is available with AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED and AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED lenses only. 4 Available when camera is used to select
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 191
    for detailed instructions. If the flash unit supports CLS, refer to the section on CLS-compatible digital SLR cameras. The D3100 is not included in the "digital SLR" category in the SB-80DX, SB-28DX, and SB-50DX manuals. If an optional flash unit is attached in shooting modes other than j, the
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 192
    are Power sources available from local retailers and Nikon-authorized service representatives. • Battery Charger MH-24 (0 14): Recharge EN-EL14 batteries. • Power Connector EP-5A, AC Adapter EH-5a: These accessories can be used to power the camera for extended periods (EH-5 AC adapters can also
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 193
    information on supported operating systems. Body cap BF-1B and BF-1A Body Caps: The body cap keeps the mirror, viewfinder screen, and lowpass filter free of dust when a lens is not in place. The D3100 is equipped with an accessory terminal for Accessory terminal accessories MC-DC2 remote cords
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 194
    an optional power connector and AC adapter. 1 Ready the camera. Open the battery-chamber (q) and power connector (w) covers. 2 Insert the EP-5A power connector. Be sure to insert the connector in the correct orientation. 3 Close the battery-chamber cover. Position the power connector cable so that
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 195
    Camera using the camera at the beach or seaside, wipe off sand or salt with a cloth lightly body Servicing the Camera and Accessories The camera is a precision device and requires regular servicing. Nikon recommends that the camera be inspected by the original retailer or Nikon-authorized service
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 196
    The Low-Pass Filter The image sensor that acts as the camera's picture element is fitted with a low-pass filter to prevent moiré. If you suspect that dirt or dust on the filter is appearing in photographs, you
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 197
    . Highlight an option and press J. D Image Sensor Cleaning Using camera controls interrupts image sensor cleaning. Image sensor cleaning may not be performed image sensor menu, clean the image sensor manually (0 182) or consult a Nikon-authorized service representative. If image sensor cleaning is
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 198
    setup menu (0 180), the filter can be cleaned manually as described below. Note, however, that the filter is extremely delicate and easily damaged. Nikon recommends that the filter be cleaned only by Nikon-authorized service personnel. 1 Charge the battery or connect an AC adapter. A reliable power
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 199
    under certain conditions. To protect the camera when no lens is in place, be sure to replace the body cap provided with the camera, being careful to first remove all dust and other foreign matter that may be adhering to the body cap. Avoid exchanging lenses in dusty environments. Should foreign
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 200
    on 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 period, remove the battery to prevent leakage and store the camera in a plastic bag containing a desiccant. Do not, however, store the camera case in a plastic
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 201
    battery to flame or excessive heat. • Keep the battery terminals clean. • Turn the product off before replacing the battery. • Remove the battery from the camera or charger battery. • Charge the battery before use. When taking photographs on important occasions, ready a spare EN-EL14 battery
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 202
    that can be adjusted in each mode. Defaults can be restored with Reset shooting options (0 131). Shooting menu ijklpmno P S A M Set Picture Control Image quality Image size White balance ISO sensitivity settings Active D-Lighting Auto distortion control Color
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 203
    Memory Card Capacity The following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on a 4 GB SanDisk Extreme SDHC card at different image quality and size settings. Image quality Image size File size 1 No. of images 1 Buffer capacity 2 NEF (RAW)+ JPEG fine 3 L 19.8 MB 151
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 204
    and turn the camera on again. If the problem persists after removing the battery from the camera, contact your retailer or Nikon-authorized service representative. Shooting (All Modes) Camera takes time to turn on: Delete files or folders. Shutter-release disabled: • Memory card is locked, full
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 205
    Subject-tracking AF not available: Select a non-monochrome Picture Control (0 94). Can not select AF-area mode: Manual focus selected (0 38, 55). Image size can not be changed: Image quality set to NEF (RAW) or NEF (RAW) + JPEG fine (0 65). Camera is slow to record photos: Turn noise reduction off
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 206
    camera mode dial to M (0 169). • Mode dial rotated to S after shutter speed of "bulb" selected in mode M: choose new shutter speed (0 75). Full range of shutter speeds not available: Flash in use (0 70). Colors are unnatural: • Adjust white balance to match light source (0 87). • Adjust Set Picture
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 207
    ). • Memory card is locked (0 20). Can not select photo for printing: Photo is in NEF (RAW) format. Create JPEG copy using NEF (RAW) processing or transfer to computer and print using supplied software or Capture NX 2 (0 115, 160). Picture is not displayed on TV: • Choose correct video mode (0 139
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 208
    . - End cleaning and turn camera off and recharge or replace battery. 183 Clock not set. - Set camera clock. 18, 139 No SD card inserted. S/s Turn camera off and confirm that card is correctly (blinks) inserted. 20 Memory card is locked. ( Memory card is locked (write protected). Slide
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 209
    . (blinks) 31, 109 • Insert new memory card. 20 - ● Camera can not focus using autofocus. Change 26, (blinks) composition or focus manually. 56, 62 • Use a lower ISO sensitivity. 71 • Use commercial ND filter. - Subject is too bright. q • In mode: S Increase shutter speed 75 A Choose
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 210
    Nikon-authorized service representative. Release shutter. If error persists or appears frequently, consult Nikon-authorized service O representative. (blinks) Consult Nikon-authorized service camera, or file is 152 corrupt. No image for retouching. - Memory card manual for more information. n 194
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 211
    Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait, Landscape; selected Picture Control can be modified Media SD (Secure Digital), SDHC, and SDXC memory cards File system DCF (Design Rule for Camera File System) 2.0, DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), Exif 2.21 (Exchangeable Image File Format for
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 212
    ) Up to 3 fps (manual focus, mode M or S, shutter speed 1/250 s or faster, and other settings at default values) 2 s, 10 s Exposure Metering TTL exposure metering using 420-pixel RGB sensor Metering method • Matrix: 3D color matrix metering II (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering II
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 213
    Exposure ISO sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) Active D-Lighting Focus Autofocus Detection range Lens servo Focus point AF-area mode Focus lock Flash Built-in flash Guide Number Flash control Flash mode ISO 100 - 3200 in steps of 1 EV; can also be set to approx. 1 EV above ISO 3200 (ISO 6400
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 214
    tuning. Live view Lens servo AF-area mode Autofocus Automatic scene selection • Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); full-time servo AF (AF-F) • Manual focus (MF) Face-priority AF, wide-area AF, normal-area AF, subject-tracking AF Contrast-detect AF anywhere in frame (camera selects focus point
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 215
    with battery and memory card but without body cap 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 an ambient temperature of 20 °C (68 °F). • Nikon
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 216
    digital SLR cameras Focal length 18-55 mm Maximum aperture f/3.5-5.6 Lens construction 11 elements in 8 groups (including 1 aspherical element) Angle of view 76 °-28 ° 50 ´ Focal length scale Graduated in millimeters (18, 24, 35, 45, 55) Distance information Output to camera Zoom Manual
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 217
    ❚❚ The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR is for use exclusively with Nikon DX format digital cameras. If the camera is equipped with an AF-ON button, vibration reduction will not be activated when the AF-ON button is pressed. A Using the Built-in Flash
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 218
    • Lens Hood HB-45 (attaches as shown at right) q w q A A Note on Wide-Angle Lenses Autofocus may not provide the desired results with wide- and super-wide-angle lenses in the following situations: 1 The subject does not fill the focus point. If the subject does not fill the focus point, the camera
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 219
    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 D3100 supports Exif (Exchangeable
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 220
    • Continuous release mode (Nikon standard 2): Approximately 2000 shots 1 Measured at 23 °C/73.4 °F (±2 °C/3.6 °F) with an AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens under the following test conditions: lens cycled from infinity to minimum range and one photograph taken at default settings once every
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 221
    Auto off timers 143 Auto-area AF (AF-area mode).... 58 Autofocus 55-61 Auto-servo AF 55 Available settings 186 B Battery 14, 15, 23 Beep 144 Before and after 164 Black-and-white 154 Blue 89, 156 Blue intensifier (Filter effects) .. 155 Body cap 2, 16, 177 Border (PictBridge 119, 122 Built
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 222
    balanced fill-flash for digital SLR 135 J JPEG 64 JPEG basic 64 JPEG fine 64 JPEG normal 64 L Landscape (Set Picture Control) 94 Language 18, 140 Large (Image size 66 LCD 137 LCD brightness 137 Lens 16, 17, 167 Lens cap 16 Lens focus ring 16 Lens mount 2, 16, 63 Lens VR switch 16, 17
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 223
    (Set Picture Control)....94 Standard i-TTL fill-flash for digital SLR 135 Start printing (PictBridge)120, 122 Storage folder 149 Straighten 161 Subject-tracking AF 38 T Television 126 Thumbnail playback 105 Time stamp (PictBridge) ...119, 122 Time zone 18, 139 Time zone and date 18, 139
  • Nikon D3100 | D3100 User's Manual - Page 224
    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. SB0G01(11) 6MB09111-01
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DIGITAL CAMERA
Reference Manual
En