35mm [135] Format SLR Camera F55

Invitation to excellence

s Easy operation with exposure mode select dial and Command Dial with large top deck LCD panel s Nikons exclusive three-area autofocus sensor (Multi-CAM 530 sensor) s Dynamic AF and Lock-On autofocus operation s Nikons exclusive 3D Matrix Metering using five-segment Matrix sensor s Built-in auto pop-up Speedlight with 28mm lens coverage and guide number of 12/39 (ISO 100, m/ft.) s Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash for automatic balanced exposure of both foreground subject and background s AUTO mode for fully automatic control s Vari-Program includes five versatile program modes s Built-in AF-Assist Illuminator s F55D offers data imprinting
Nikon F55 is sold as Nikon N55 in the U.S.

http://nikonimaging.com/

35mm [135] Format SLR Camera F55 / Nomenclature

s LCD panel

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s Viewfinder display

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s Mode dial

* a b c

1 Shutter release button 2 Aperture/Exposure compensation/ Film rewind button 3 Self-timer button 4 Focus area button 5 LCD panel 6 Exposure mode dial 7 Flash lock release/Flash sync. mode button 8 Auto Exposure Bracketing/Multiple exposure/Film rewind button 9 Lens release button ! Focus mode selector " Power switch
# Self-timer/AF-Assist Illuminator/ Red-Eye Reduction lamp $ Camera back lock release % Film confirmation window & Rubber eyecup ( Diopter adjustment lever ) Command Dial ~ Tripod socket , Self-timer - Shutter speed. Auto Exposure Bracketing / Aperture : Multiple exposure
; Battery power < Frame counter/Exposure compensation value = Exposure compensation > Focus area ? Flash sync. mode @ Center Partial Metering area [ Focus area (focus brackets) ] Focus area ^ Shutter speed _ Aperture { Electronic analog exposure/Exposure compensation value display
| Exposure compensation } Flash ready-light/Flash recommended indication * Manual a Aperture-Priority Auto b Shutter-Priority Auto c Auto-Multi Program d AUTO e Portrait f Landscape g Close-Up h Sports Continuous i Night Portrait
+ Battery chamber cover lock release lever \ Focus indicator
35mm [135] Format SLR Camera F55 / Specifications
Type of camera: Integral-motor autofocus 35mm single-lens reflex with electronically controlled focal-plane shutter and built-in Speedlight Exposure modes: a: AUTO mode; Vari-Program modes (s: Portrait, d: Landscape, f: Close-Up, g: Sports Continuous, h: Night Portrait); P: Auto-Multi Program (Flexible Program possible); S: Shutter-Priority Auto; A: Aperture-Priority Auto; M: Manual Picture format: 24 x 36mm (standard 35mm film format) Lens mount: Nikon F mount (with AF coupling, AF contacts) Lens: AF Nikkor and AI-P Nikkor lenses (except AF Nikkor for F3AF, DX Nikkor and IX-Nikkor) Viewfinder: Fixed eyelevel penta-Dach-mirror type; built-in diopter adjustment (1.5 to +0.8m1) Eyepoint: 17mm (at 1.0m1) Focusing screen: B-type Clear Matte Screen V with focus brackets Viewfinder frame coverage: Approx. 89% Finder magnification: Approx. 0.68-0.60x with 50mm lens set to infinity (at 1.5 to +0.8m1) Viewfinder information Focus indications, focus area, shutter speed, aperture, (with illuminator): electronic analog exposure display/exposure compensation value display, exposure compensation, flash ready-light/ flash recommended/full flash output; three sets of focus brackets (area) Reflex mirror: Automatic, instant-return type Lens aperture: Instant-return type Autofocus: TTL phase detection, Nikon Multi-CAM530 autofocus module with AF-Assist Illuminator (approx. 0.5m-3m/ 1.6 ft.-9.8 ft.); detection range: EV 1 to EV 19 (ISO 100) Lens servo: AF: Auto-Servo AF: camera automatically chooses Single Servo AF or Continuous Servo AF operation according to the subject status, i.e. stationary or moving (including directional information); Single Servo AF (focus is locked when the subject is in focus); Continuous Servo AF (camera continues to focus on a moving subject); Focus Tracking with Lock-On automatically activated by subjects status M: Manual focus Focus area: One of three focus areas can be selected Focus Area mode: Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority; Dynamic AF Mode; Single Area with M focus mode Metering system: TTL full-aperture exposure metering system; three metering systems selectable (limitations with lens used): 3D fivesegment Matrix Metering with G- or D-type AF Nikkor; Five-segment Matrix Metering with AF Nikkor other than G- or D-type (except AF Nikkor for F3AF, DX Nikkor and IX-Nikkor), AI-P Nikkor; Center Partial Metering: automatically selected with Manual exposure mode Metering range: EV 1-20 (ISO 100, f/1.4 lens) Exposure meter coupling: CPU Exposure Exposure compensated in 2 EV range, in 1/2 steps compensation: (except in M, a or Programmed Flash) Auto Exposure Bracketing: Bracketing range: 2 EV; number of shots: three; bracketing steps: 0.5, 1, 1.5 or 2 EV (except in a or VariProgram) Film speed setting: Automatically set to ISO film speed of DX-coded film in use (manual not selectable); film speed range: DX: ISO 255000, automatically set to ISO 100 with non-DX-coded film Shutter: Electronically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter Shutter speeds: In a, s, d, f, g, h, P, A: automatically set between 30 and 1/2000 s; in S: 30 to 1/2000 s (in 1/2 steps); in M: 30 to 1/2000 s (in 1/2 steps), Time Sync. contact: X-contact only; flash synchronization up to 1/90 s Built-in Speedlight: In a, Vari-Program (except in d or g): automatically activated; in P, S, A, M: activated by pressing flash lockrelease button; guide number: 12/39 (at ISO 100, m/ft.); flash coverage: 28mm or longer lens; film speed range: ISO 25 to ISO 800

Flash control: Controlled by TTL Sensor; Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash: built-in Speedlight and CPU Nikkor lens (except in Manual exposure mode); Standard TTL: in Manual exposure mode; Programmed Flash (Non-TTL Auto Flash): optional Speedlight and CPU Nikkor lens (except in A or M exposure mode); film speed range in TTL auto flash: ISO 25 to 800. Flash sync. mode: Front-Curtain Sync. (normal sync.), Slow Sync., Red-Eye Reduction, Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Sync., Flash Cancel Ready-light: Flash fully charged: ready-light lights; full output warning: ready-light blinks Flash recommended Blinks when the subject is dark or backlit and Speedlight is indication: recommended in P, S, A and M Accessory shoe: Standard ISO-type hot-shoe contact (sync. contact, ready-light contact, GND), safety lock provided Self-timer: Electronically controlled; timer duration: 10 seconds Film loading : Easy loading, automatic prewind with built-in motor; film automatically advances to first frame (frame of the maximum number of available exposure) when camera back is closed Film advance: Automatic advance with built-in motor; continuous shooting possible in g Sports Continuous mode; film advance speed: approx. 1.5 fps (fresh batteries) Film rewind: Automatic rewind with built-in motor; mid-roll rewind available Multiple exposure: Selectable in P, S, A, M LCD panel Shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation, information: exposure compensation value, Auto Exposure Bracketing, multiple exposure, flash sync. mode, focus area, battery power, frame counter, self-timer Date/time Built-in clock: 24-hour type with timing accuracy within imprint function: 90 seconds a month; leap year adjustment until (F55D only) December 31, 2049; usable film: ISO 32 to 3200 DX-coded film; display mode: Year/Month/Day, Day/Hour/Minute, No Imprint, Month/Day/Year and Day/Month/Year; power source: one 3V CR2025 lithium battery; battery life; approx. three years (depending upon use of data imprint function and other operating conditions) Camera back: Hinged back with film confirmation window; F55D: data imprint LCD panel/buttons Power source: Two 3V CR2 lithium batteries Power switch: Power ON and OFF positions Exposure meter: Auto meter shut-off 5 seconds after power turned on if no operations are performed; activated by lightly pressing shutter release button after power is turned on Battery power In LCD panel, with exposure meter on; N for sufficient confirmation: power; M indicates batteries are nearing exhaustion; blinking M indicates batteries are just about exhausted Usable number of At 20C/68F At 10C /14F 36-exposure Without flash Approx. 45 (67) Approx. 27 (40) (24-exposure) film rolls per set of With flash and AF-Assist Approx. 11 (16) Approx. 7 (10) set of two fresh Illuminator for half 3V lithium batteries: of all exposures Autofocus operation using an AF Zoom-Nikkor 28-80mm f/3.3-5.6G lens, covering the full range from infinity () to the closest distance and back to infinity () before each shot, with a shutter speed of 1/90 s or faster. 1/4 (diameter, JIS standard) F55: Approx. 129 x 92 x 65mm (5.1 x 3.6 x 2.6 in.); F55D: Approx. 129 x 92 x 67.5mm (5.1 x 3.6 x 2.7 in.) F55: Approx. 350g (12.3 oz.); F55D: Approx. 360g (12.7 oz.) Soft case CF-62

Tripod socket: Dimensions (W H D): Weight (without batteries): Optional exclusive accessory:
All specifications apply when fresh batteries are used at normal temperature (20C/68F). Specifications and design are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer. December 2005 2002-2005 Nikon Corporation
Fuji Bldg., 2-3, Marunouchi 3-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8331, Japan http://nikonimaging.com/

F55D only: Data imprint LCD/buttons
1. Date/time LCD 2. : Year indicator 3. MODE button: Push to select one of five available displays. 4. SELECT button: Push to select date/time to be adjusted. 5. M: Month indicator 6. : Data imprint indicator: Blinks approx. 2 sec. when data is imprinted. 7. ADJUST button: Push to adjust date/time.

Page 8

LCD Panel/Viewfinder Display
Auto Exposure Bracketing (P. 66) Shutter speed Aperture Focus area (focus brackets) (P. 30/48) Centre Partial Metering area (p. 60)

Self-timer (P. 42)

Multiple Exposure (P. 69)

Battery power (P. 17)

Flash sync mode (P. 78/80) Focus area (P. 48) * The illustrations are fully labelled for your reference.
Frame counter (P. 21)/ Exposure Compensation value (P. 64) Exposure Compensation (P. 64)

NOTE: About LCD

The LCD panel and viewfinder displays tend to turn darker at high temperatures and have slower response time at low temperatures. In either case, when the temperature returns to normal, the displays also return to normal. Focus indicator (P. 31/46)
Flash ready-light (P. 41/77)/ Flash recommended indication (P. 80) Exposure Compensation (P. 64) Electronic analogue exposure (P. 61)/Exposure Compensation value display (P. 64) Aperture
Focus area (P. 48) Shutter speed

LCD panel

Viewfinder display

Page 10

Available Exposure Modes
The exposure mode dial of the Nikon F55/F55D can be divided into two sections. One is the user-controlled exposure mode with Auto-Multi Program, Shutter-Priority Auto, Aperture-Priority Auto or Manual exposure modes, where the photographer can determine various exposure factors. The other section is point-and-shoot exposure mode in which the camera automatically controls various exposure settings. See pages 28, 37-39, 54-62 for more details on each exposure mode.

a: AUTO mode (P. 28)

Camera automatically controls all the exposure settings. Suitable for taking pictures right away.
s: Portrait mode (P. 37) User-controlled exposure mode P: Auto-Multi Program (P. 54)

G-type Nikkor lens

The G-type Nikkor lens has no aperture ring; aperture should be selected from camera body. Unlike other CPU Nikkor lenses, aperture does not need to be set to minimum.
With G-type Nikkor lens Position lens in the cameras bayonet mount so that the mounting indexes on lens and camera body are aligned, then twist lens anticlockwise until it locks into place. (Be sure not to touch the lens release button.) With CPU Nikkor lens with aperture ring (other than G-type) Position lens in the cameras bayonet mount so that the mounting indexes on lens and camera body are aligned, then twist lens anticlockwise until it locks into place. (Be sure not to touch the lens release button.) And then, set the lens aperture to its minimum and lock. When the lens is not set to its minimum aperture setting and the power switch is turned on, EE blinks in the LCD panel and viewfinder and the shutter cannot be released.
Use a G- or D-type AF Nikkor lens to utilise all of this cameras functions. However, autofocus cannot be used with AF-S and AF-I lenses, and the Vibration Reduction function of the VR lens does not function (p. 88). Make sure to turn the power switch off when attaching/detaching the lens. Avoid direct sunlight when attaching/detaching the lens.

Detach the lens.

Push and hold the lens release button, then turn the lens clockwise to detach the lens.
NOTE: Non-CPU Nikkor lens
When a non-CPU Nikkor lens is attached and the power switch is turned on, -- blinks in the LCD panel and viewfinder, and the shutter cannot be released (except in Manual exposure mode). See page 90 for a non-CPU lens.
When camera is left unattended without lens
When you leave the camera unattended without a lens attached, be sure to attach the supplied body cap (page 2), or optional body cap BF-1A. (BF-1 body cap cannot be used.)

Page 20

Load Film
Turn the power switch on and load DX-coded film. With DX-coded film, film speed will be set automatically (ISO 25-5000). When the camera back is closed, the film automatically advances and the number of available exposures is displayed in the LCD panel.
Gently close the camera back until the camera back snaps closed.
Turn the power switch on, open the camera back by sliding the camera back lock release lever and load film.
The film automatically advances to final frame with blinking o, o, o, o as indicated in LCD panel. When the film has completed set up, a shutter sound is let out but no picture has been taken. LCD Panel indicates number of exposures left on film. Film rewinds one frame at a time as photos are taken. When E appears in the LCD panel, film is not properly installed. Open the camera back again and reload film by aligning the film leader to the red index mark. When Err and E in the LCD panel and Err in viewfinder blink, film is not correctly advanced. Open the camera back again and reload film. Pictures taken on frames beyond the indicated number of the exposures for the film roll may be discarded in the process of developing.

Vari-Program

When the shutter release button is lightly pressed, shutter speed and aperture are indicated in the LCD panel and viewfinder. When the exposure mode is set to a, Matrix Metering is automatically selected. Check if the AF Area mode is set to Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority. See page 48 for details.

a s d f g h P S A M

Matrix Metering (page 34)
The Matrix Meter employed in the F55/F55D uses a five-segment sensor to achieve superior metering results even in extremely complex lighting conditions. The microcomputer analyses data including scene brightness and contrastand subject distance when you use a G- or D-type Nikkor lens (3D Matrix Metering is performed)and makes the calculations necessary to assure correct exposure. This camera automatically selects Matrix Metering in all exposure modes except Manual exposure mode (page 60).
Sports Continuous of fast-moving subjects to create exciting action photos. Continuous shooting is P. 38 possible with this mode. Night Portrait P. 39 Auto-Multi Program P. 54 Shutter-Priority Auto P. 56 Aperture-Priority Auto P. 58 Manual P. 60
Use this mode for subjects with an evening or night background. This mode captures all lighting in the scene, including the foreground subject which is illuminated by the flash, and the background. Camera controls shutter speed and aperture automatically, while allowing you to make other settings, such as Flexible Program (page 55) or Exposure Compensation (page 64). You set desired shutter speed, and the camera selects the correct aperture. Freeze the motion of a moving subject using a fast shutter speed or blur the subject using a slower speed. You set the desired aperture, and the camera selects the correct shutter speed. Lets you determine depth of the in-focus area, so you can choose whether near or far subjects are in sharp focus, or whether foreground or background is to be blurred. Shutter speed and aperture are set manually. Suitable for situations where it is difficult to attain the desired effect using other exposure modes. Long Time exposure is possible with this exposure mode.

Imprinted date/time

The illustration at right indicates the position of the imprinted date/time on the film. It may be difficult to read against bright colours such as white or reddish hues.

Page 46

Focus Mode
Two focus modes, autofocus using the Auto-Servo AF (Single Servo AF and Continuous Servo AF) and Manual focus, are available with this camera.

Manual focus

Set the focus mode selector to M. Look through the viewfinder and rotate the lens focusing ring until the image appears sharp on the clear matte field in the viewfinder. The shutter can be released whether or not the subject is in focus and regardless of the focus indicator status. Use Manual focus in situations where autofocus may not work as expected (page 27) or with lenses which do not allow autofocus operation when attached to the F55/F55D (page 88). When using a lens with the A-M select function, set the switch/ring to M to focus manually. If M/A (autofocus with manual priority) is available with your lens, Manual focus is possible either with the switch/ring set to M or M/A. See the instruction manual of your lens for details.

Autofocus

With the focus mode selector set to AF, lightly pressing the shutter release button automatically focuses the camera on the subject at the focus area (page 9/48) and causes / to appear in the viewfinder.

Auto-Servo AF

Camera automatically chooses Single Servo AF or Continuous Servo AF operation according to the subject status, i.e. stationary or moving. Single Servo AF Automatically activated when shooting a stationary subject. The shutter can be released when the focus indicator / appears in the viewfinder. Once focused on a subject, keeping the shutter release button lightly pressed locks focus (Focus Lock, page 52). However, if the subject starts moving, Focus Lock is deactivated, and the focus mode automatically switches to Continuous Servo AF. Continuous Servo AF Continuous Servo AF is automatically activated when the subject is moving. The shutter can be released when the focus indicator / appears in the viewfinder; however, focus is not locked and the camera continues to focus on the subject until shutter release. With a moving subject, Focus Tracking (page 108) is activated and the camera continuously focuses on the subject. Also, F55/F55D will continue to focus firmly on a main subject with Lock-On. When g Sports Continuous mode is selected, Continuous Servo AF is automatically activated and the camera continuously focuses on the subject.

Manual focus using Electronic Rangefinder
Set the focus mode selector to M. The focus can be confirmed with / indication in the viewfinder. The Electronic Rangefinder works with most Nikkor lenses (including AF Nikkors when operated manually) having a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster. Lightly press the shutter release button and while the meter is on, rotate the lens focusing ring until / appears in the viewfinder. The shutter can be released anytime. The Electronic Rangefinder can be activated with any of three focus brackets selected as the focus area (page 9/49).

About Lock-On

Lock-On Autofocus keeps focus firmly on a main subject even if some other object momentarily blocks it in the viewfinder.

Page 48

Focus Area
This cameras three focus areas cover a wide frame area, and you can select among them, depending on the subjects position in the frame or your desired composition. When the focus mode is set to AF (page 46), you can select either Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority, where the camera automatically selects the focus area, or Dynamic AF Mode, where you select the desired focus area. When the focus mode is set to M (manual focus, page 47), Single Area Mode is automatically selected. In this mode, you focus manually using the selected focus area.
Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority automatically maintains focus on the subject located closest to any of three focus areas and focus is locked once it is achieved. If the subject moves from the selected focus area, the camera automatically focuses on the subject determining the data from the other focus areas. When a AUTO mode or Vari-Program (except f Close-Up mode) is selected, Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority is automatically selected. Dynamic AF Mode Focus is obtained at the selected focus area and focusing is locked (as long as the shutter release button is lightly pressed) once it is achieved. If the subject moves from the selected focus area, the camera automatically focuses on the subject determining the data from the other focus areas. When f Close-Up mode is selected, Dynamic AF Mode and centre focus area are automatically selected.
Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority is useful when you want the camera to take automatic control over focus operations, or when shooting a moving subject. Dynamic AF Mode is useful in achieving focus on a particular part of a subject, or when the composition of the photograph is your top priority.

Page 52

Focus Lock
Focus lock is useful in autofocus shooting when you want to capture a subject thats framed outside of the F55/F55Ds three focus areas.
Focus lock is best suited for a photograph where composition is your top priority, and in situations where autofocus may not work as expected (page 27).
Position the focus area on the subject and lightly press the shutter release button. (For example,
when centre focus area is selected.)
/ appears when the subject is in focus and the focus is locked as long as the shutter release button is kept lightly pressed. Focus lock cannot be used in g. Focus is not locked with a moving subject. To lock focus on a stationary subject which has been moving, remove your finger from the shutter release button and lightly press the shutter release button again.

EXPOSURE MODE

This section describes how to take pictures in each exposure mode.
Auto-Multi Program Shutter-Priority Auto Aperture-Priority Auto Manual
Confirm focus indicator /, compose while lightly pressing the shutter release button and shoot.
After you have locked focus, do not change the camera-to-subject distance.

Page 54

Auto-Multi Program

P: Auto-Multi Program

The camera automatically controls exposure to achieve correct exposure in any shooting situation. For more complex shooting, use Flexible Program (page 55), Exposure Compensation (page 64) or Auto Exposure Bracketing (page 66).
P (Auto-Multi Program) can only be used with a CPU Nikkor lens such as G- or D-type Nikkor (page 88).
Difference between a (AUTO mode) and P (Auto-Multi Program)
Although exposure controls are the same, with Auto-Multi Program, you can select functions such as Flexible Program, Exposure Compensation, Auto Exposure Bracketing, Multiple Exposure (page 69) or Slow Sync flash (page 78) for more flexible shooting. In Auto-Multi Program, however, the built-in Speedlight does not pop up automatically with a dark or backlit subject.
Auto-Multi Program is best suited for snapshots.
Compose picture, confirm focus indicator / and shoot.

When the subject is too dark or too bright, one of the following warning indications will appear in the viewfinder and LCD panel. HI: Use ND filter (optional). Lo: Use Speedlight. If the subject is too dark or backlit, the flash recommended indication blinks in the viewfinder when you lightly press the shutter release button. Use the Speedlight (page 80/91).
Set the exposure mode dial to P.
NOTE: CPU Nikkor lenses other than G-type
Always set the aperture ring of a CPU Nikkor lens (except G-type) to its minimum (largest f-number). When the lens is not set to its minimum aperture setting, EE blinks in the LCD panel and viewfinder, and the shutter locks.

Flexible Program

By rotating Command Dial in Auto-Multi Program, you can change the combination of shutter speed and aperture while maintaining correct exposure. With this function, you can shoot in Auto-Multi Program as though shooting in Shutter-Priority Auto or Aperture-Priority Auto. To cancel the Flexible Program, either change the exposure mode, turn off the power switch, or use the built-in Speedlight (page 80).

Page 56

Shutter-Priority Auto Exposure Mode

S: Shutter-Priority Auto

Enables you to manually set the desired shutter speed (30-1/2000 sec.); the camera automatically selects the proper aperture to provide correct exposure.
S (Shutter-Priority Auto) can only be used with a CPU Nikkor lens such as G- or D-type Nikkor (page 88).
Set the shutter speed (30-1/2000 sec.) with the Command Dial.
Fast shutter speed 1/500 sec.
When the subject is too dark or too bright, one of the following warning indications will appear in the viewfinder and LCD panel. (Over- or underexposure value is indicated with the electronic analogue exposure display in the viewfinder.) HI: Select higher shutter speed. If the warning indication still remains on, use an ND filter (optional). Lo: Select slower shutter speed. If the warning indication still remains on, use the Speedlight. When the Speedlight is used, fastest shutter speed is limited to 1/90 sec. If the subject is too dark or backlit, the flash recommended indication blinks in the viewfinder when you lightly press the shutter release button. Use the Speedlight (page 80/91).
With high shutter speeds, you can freeze the motion of a fast-moving subject; with slower speeds, you can create a motion effect.
Slow shutter speed 1/4 sec.

Overexposure

Underexposure
If -- (Long Time exposure) is selected in Manual exposure mode and the exposure mode is changed to Shutter-Priority Auto without cancelling --, -- blinks and the shutter locks. To shoot in Shutter-Priority Auto exposure mode, select shutter speed other than -- by rotating the Command Dial.
Set the exposure mode dial to S.

Page 58

Aperture-Priority Auto Exposure Mode
A: Aperture-Priority Auto
Enables you to set the desired aperture (lens minimum to maximum) manually. The camera automatically selects a shutter speed suitable for correct exposure.

Built-in Speedlight and TTL Flash modes
This camera is equipped with a built-in Speedlight that provides an angle of coverage for a 28mm lens with a guide number of 12 (ISO 100, m). When the subject is dark or backlit, in a or Vari-Program (except in d or g), the built-in Speedlight automatically pops up. When the shutter is released, the flash fires to create natural-looking flash photography utilising Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash. In P, S, A or M exposure mode, when the subject is dark or backlit, flash recommended indication blinks in the viewfinder, and the Speedlight pops up when the Speedlight lock-release button is pressed and the Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash is possible. (In M exposure mode, Standard TTL Flash is selected.) In addition to shooting in dim light, the flash can be used in daylight to reduce shadows on the main subject or to put catchlights in your subjects eyes. Four flash sync modesFront-Curtain Sync (Normal Sync), Slow Sync, RedEye Reduction and Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Syncare available with this camera.
See below for the TTL Flash modes, page 80 for using the built-in Speedlight and page 78 for the flash sync modes. Standard TTL Flash Standard TTL Flash is automatically selected when the exposure mode is set to M. In Standard TTL Flash, the main subject is correctly exposed but background exposure is not considered. Standard TTL Flash is useful when you want to highlight the main subject.
When using the built-in Speedlight or an optional Speedlight (p. 91), the ready-light appears in the viewfinder when the Speedlight is fully charged and ready to fire. If the ready-light blinks approx. 3 sec. after full flash output, underexposure may have occurred (when using built-in Speedlight or optional Speedlight set to non-TTL Auto Flash mode). Check the focus distance, aperture or flash shooting distance range and shoot again. When the optional Speedlight is set to TTL and the shutter release button is lightly pressed, the ready-light in the viewfinder blinks to indicate that the flash will be fired at full output. Make sure to set the optional Speedlight to A (non-TTL Auto Flash) or M (Manual Flash) mode.
Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash is automatically set in a, Vari-Program, P, S or A exposure mode. In this flash mode, a well-balanced exposure of the main subject (subject in focus) and the background is achievedbased on the brightness sensed by the Matrix Metering.

With colour slide film Lens
AF 24-50mm f/3.3-4.5 AF 24-85mm f/2.8-4
Usable lenses with built-in Speedlight
28mm to 200mm non-zoom CPU Nikkor lenses, AF 300mm f/4 ED and AF-S 300mm f/4 ED lenses can be used with the built-in Speedlight. NOTE: Using built-in Speedlight
Make sure to remove the lens hood. The built-in Speedlight cannot be used with zoom lenses set to Macro in wideangle. AF-S 17-35mm f/2.8 ED, AF 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5 ED, AF 20-35mm f/2.8 zoom lenses cannot be used with the built-in Speedlight. Vignetting occurs at the edges of the frame resulting in underexposure with the following lenses, which have limitations in usable focal length or shooting distance. Vignetting is reduced, however, with regular colour print film compared to colour slide film since the edges of the frame are cropped out in film processing with colour print film.
35mm or longer focal length 35mm or longer focal length; and at 35mm, 2.5m or longer shooting distance; at 50mm, 1m or longer shooting distance AF-S 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED 28mm or longer focal length; and at 28mm, 1m or longer shooting distance AF 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6 35mm or longer focal length; and at 35mm, 1.5m or longer shooting distance AF 28mm f/1.4 2m or longer shooting distance AF-S 28-70mm f/2.8 ED 70mm focal length AF 28-70mm f/3.5-4.5 At 28mm, 1m or longer shooting distance AF 28-80mm f/3.3-5.6G AF 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 AF 28-100mm f/3.5-5.6G AF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 AF 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6 AF 35-70mm f/2.8 AF Micro 70-180mm f/4.5-5.6 ED AF-S 80-200mm f/2.8 ED At 28mm, 1.5m or longer shooting distance 35mm or longer focal length; and at 35mm, 1m or longer shooting distance At 28mm, 1.5m or longer shooting distance 35mm or longer focal length; and at 35mm, 2.5m or longer shooting distance 50mm or longer focal length At 70mm, 1.5m or longer shooting distance; at 85-105mm, 1m or longer shooting distance 105mm or longer focal length

Page 86

About Depth of F ield
Basics of the relationship between focus and depth of field are explained in this section.

Depth of field

When focusing, depth of field should be considered. Depth of field is the zone of sharpest focus in front of and behind the subject on which the lens is focused. It varies according to shooting distance, focal length and, above all, aperture. Smaller apertures (larger f-numbers) will produce a deeper depth of field where the background and foreground become sharper; larger apertures (smaller f-numbers) will produce a shallower depth of field where the background becomes blurred. Similarly, shorter shooting distance or longer focal length will produce a shallower depth of field, and longer shooting distance or shorter focal length will produce a deeper depth of field. Note that depth of field tends to be shallower in front of and deeper behind the subject in focus.

Page 92

Usable Optional Speedlightscontinued
Flash photography can be performed using an optional Speedlight attached to the accessory shoe of this camera (Non-TTL Auto Flash using the optional Speedlights light sensor). It is useful in situations such as when the cameras built-in Speedlight does not reach the subject. See your Speedlight manual for details on operation. NOTE: Standby function of optional Speedlight
Make sure to cancel the standby mode of the optional Speedlight.
NOTE: Flash mode with optional Speedlight
Only A (Non-TTL Auto Flash) and M (Manual Flash) modes are available with the optional Speedlight. Proper flash operation cannot be performed when the flash mode is set to TTL Auto Flash. When the optional Speedlight is set to TTL Auto Flash and the shutter release button is lightly pressed, blinks in the viewfinder to warn that flash synchronisation is not being performed and the optional Speedlight will fire at full output. See your Speedlight manual for details on Manual Flash.
Non-TTL Auto Flash using optional Speedlight
Attach the optional Speedlight to the accessory shoe of the camera. Turn the camera power switch on and set the exposure mode dial to A or M.
Programmed Auto Flash is performed when the exposure mode dial is set to a, Vari-Program, P or S. See page 95 for details.
Compose picture and set aperture so that the subject is located within the flash shooting distance.
Turn the optional Speedlight on and set the flash mode to A (Non-TTL Auto Flash).
In A exposure mode, the shutter speed is automatically set to 1/90 sec. In M exposure mode, the shutter speed is automatically set to 1/90 sec. when a shutter speed faster than 1/90 sec. is selected. appears in the viewfinder when the optional Speedlight is fully charged (when the camera meter is on).
Set ISO film speed, aperture and zoom-head position of the optional Speedlight according to cameras ISO film speed, aperture and focal length (zoom position).
Automatic power zoom of the optional Speedlight does not function. Always set the zoom-head position manually.

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Confirm appears in the viewfinder, focus and fully depress the shutter release button to shoot.

Programmed Flash mode

When the optional Speedlight is attached with the flash mode set to A (NonTTL Auto Flash) and the exposure mode dial is set to a, Vari-Program, P or S, Programmed Flash is performed (camera aperture is automatically controlled according to the film speed).
When an optional Speedlight is attached and the camera power switch is turned on, the camera automatically selects the aperture according to the film speed. Set the aperture on the Speedlight according to the aperture indicated on the camera.
* One EV change in the film speed changes aperture by one EV. If the film speed of the film in use is an intermediate value of the film speed indicated in the table, the aperture changes accordingly. If the controlled aperture is darker than maximum aperture, maximum aperture of the attached lens is selected. See Non-TTL Auto Flash using optional Speedlight on page 92 for the operation other than setting the aperture.

Non-TTL Auto Flash

In Non-TTL Auto Flash shooting, light output automatically changes to match the flash-to-subject distance, but the light is measured by the light sensor on the optional Speedlight instead of being measured through the lens. Compared to TTL Auto Flash of the built-in Speedlight, where the light is measured through the lens, the control of the flash output level is somewhat less accurate.
Available flash sync mode with optional Speedlight
Exposure mode Front-Curtain Sync R R R R R R R R R R Red-Eye Reduction R R R R R R R R R R Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Sync R Slow Sync R Flash Cancel

a s d* f g* h P S A M

* Built-in Speedlight is always set to Flash Cancel when d or g is selected but flash shooting becomes possible with optional Speedlight. However, turning the optional Speedlight power off activates Flash Cancel mode.
in the viewfinder blinks approx. 3 sec. after full flash output. This may indicate underexposure has occurred. Check the focus distance, aperture or flash shooting distance range and shoot again. When the subject is dark, the cameras AF-Assist Illuminator automatically turns on to guide autofocus (the Speedlights AF-Assist Illuminator does not turn on). See page 50 for details.

ISO film speed Aperture

50 2.8

200 5.6

800 11

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Notes on using optional Speedlights
See your Speedlight manual for details. Make sure to cancel the standby mode of the optional Speedlight. Flash sync speed is 1/90 sec. or slower when using an optional Speedlight. When Red-Eye Reduction or Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Sync is set on a camera attached with an optional Speedlight, the Red-Eye Reduction lamp of the camera body lights up. Even when an optional Speedlight with AF-Assist Illuminator is attached, the AF-Assist Illuminator of the camera body emits light when the focus mode is set to AF an AF , Nikkor lens is attached, the subject is dark and centre focus area is selected or Dynamic AF Mode with Closest-Subject Priority is activated. Selecting Flash Cancel mode on the camera does not override the operation of the optional Speedlight. Flash exposure compensation is not performed with the optional Speedlight. With the SB-26, 25 or 24, Speedlight performs Front-Curtain Sync even if Rear-Curtain Sync is set on Speedlight (Speedlight setting is overridden). With the SB-26, 25 or 24, when Slow Sync is set on the camera body in h, Slow Sync Flash is not performed and the shutter speed is automatically set to 1/90 sec. Use the optional Accessory Shoe Adaptor AS-15 to use the sync terminal.
NOTE: When optional Speedlight is attached
Turn on the optional Speedlight power switch or set the built-in Speedlight to Flash Cancel mode so the built-in Speedlight wont pop up automatically when an optional Speedlight is attached. When the built-in Speedlight automatically pops up in a or Vari-Program (except d or g), vignetting or uneven illumination may result since the Speedlight may not pop up all the way.

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Camera Care

Cleaning camera body

Use a blower brush to remove dirt and dust from the camera body and clean it with a soft, clean cloth. After using the camera near seawater, wipe the camera body with a soft, clean cloth slightly moistened with pure water to remove salt, and then dry it with a dry cloth. NEVER use organic solvents like thinner or benzene. They may damage the camera.
Remove the batteries and store the camera with a desiccant
If you do not intend to use the camera for a long time, remove the batteries to protect the camera from battery leakage. In a humid environment, store the camera inside a plastic bag with a desiccant to keep out dust, moisture and salt. Note, however, that storing leather cases in vinyl bags may cause the leather to deteriorate. Keep the batteries in a cool, dry place away from heat or humidity. Change the desiccant occasionally since it does not absorb moisture effectively after a while. Leaving the camera unused for a long period of time may cause mould to grow and result in malfunction. Turn the power on and release the shutter a few times once per month. To maintain the built-in Speedlight in peak condition, fire it a few times every month. This will enable you to use the flash for many years.

Cleaning mirror and lens

Use a blower brush to remove dirt and dust from the mirror or lens. To remove fingerprints or smudges from the lens surface, use a soft, clean cotton cloth or lens tissue moistened with ethanol (alcohol) or lens cleaner.
Do not subject the camera or lens to strong vibration or shock
Do not drop the camera body and lens or hit them against a hard surface as this may damage their precision mechanism.
Do not touch the shutter curtains
The shutter is made of very thin curtains. Do not hold, poke, or blow strongly with a blower brush. Doing so may scratch, deform or tear the shutter curtains.
Avoid strong electric or magnetic fields
The camera may not function properly in strong electric or magnetic fields such as near a transmitter tower. Avoid using the camera in such locations.
Store the camera in a cool, dry place
Store the camera in a cool, dry place to prevent mould and mildew. Keep it away from naphthalene or camphor (moth repellent), electrical appliances that generate magnetic fields or an excessively hot place such as inside a vehicle during the summer or near a heater.