Nikon D300 User Manual Page 1

En_04DIGITAL CAMERAEnUser's ManualNo reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical article

viii❚❚ Retouching PhotographsHow do I get rid of an unwanted photo?Deleting individual photos222Can I delete several photos at once? Delete 248Can I z

74kChoosing a Release ModeThe camera supports the following release modes:Mode DescriptionSSingle frameCamera takes one photograph each time shutter-r

75kTo choose a release mode, press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to the desired setting.Release modedialRelease mo

76kContinuous ModeTo take pictures in CH (continuous high speed) and CL (continuous low speed) modes:1 Select CH or CL mode.Press the release mode dia

77kA Power Source and Frame RateThe maximum frame advance rate varies with the power source used.A Buffer SizeThe approximate number of images that ca

78kA The Memory BufferThe camera is equipped with a memory buffer for temporary storage, allowing shooting to continue while photographs are being sav

79kFraming Pictures in the Monitor (Live View)Select live view (a) mode to frame pictures in the monitor. The following options are available:• Hand-h

80kHand-Held Mode (g)1 Select live view mode.Press the release mode dial lock release and turn the release mode dial to a.2 Adjust [Live view] options

81k4 Frame a picture in the monitor.To magnify the view in the monitor up to 3 ×, press the X button.While the view through the lens is zoomed in, a n

82k6 Take the picture.Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to reset focus and exposure and take the picture. If continuous high

83kTripod Mode (h)1 Ready the camera.Mount the camera on a tripod or place it on a stable, level surface.2 Select live view mode.Press the release mod

ix❚❚ Viewing or Printing Photographs on Other Devices❚❚ Optional AccessoriesQuestion Key phrase See pageCan I view my photos on TV? Television playbac

84k5 Press the shutter-release button all the way down.The mirror will be raised and the view through the lens will be displayed in the camera monitor

85kTo magnify the view in the monitor up to 13 × and check focus, press the X button.While the view through the lens is zoomed in, a navigation window

86kD Focusing with Contrast-Detect AutofocusContrast-detect autofocus will take longer than normal (phase-detection) autofocus. In the following situa

87kD Shooting in Live View ModeAlthough they will not appear in the final picture, banding or distortion may be visible in the monitor under fluoresce

88kA The Shooting Information DisplayTo hide or display indicators in the monitor in live view mode, press the R button.A Monitor BrightnessMonitor br

89kSelf-Timer ModeThe self-timer can be used to reduce camera shake or for self-portraits. To use the self-timer, mount the camera on a tripod (recom

90k3 Start the timer.Press the shutter-release button all the way down to start the timer. The self-timer lamp (AF-assist illuminator) will start to b

91kMirror up ModeChoose this mode to minimize blurring caused by camera movement when the mirror is raised. Use of a tripod is recommended.1 Select m

92k

S93SISO Sensitivity– Reacting Faster to Light“ISO sensitivity” is the digital equivalent of film speed. The higher the ISO sensitivity, the less ligh

xQ&A Index ...ivFor Your Safety ...

94SChoosing ISO Sensitivity ManuallyISO sensitivity can be set to values between ISO 200 and ISO 3200 in steps equivalent to 1/3 EV. Settings of from

95SA ISO Sensitivity SettingsThe settings available depend on the option selected for Custom Setting b1 ([ISO sensitivity step value], pg. 275).A HI 0

96SAuto ISO Sensitivity ControlIf [Off ] (the default setting) is chosen for the [ISO sensitivity auto control] option in the shooting menu, ISO sensi

97SA Auto ISO Sensitivity ControlNoise is more likely at higher sensitivities. Use the [High ISO NR] option in the shooting menu to reduce noise (see

98S

V99ZExposure– Controlling How the Camera Sets ExposureThis section describes the options available to control exposure, including metering, exposure m

100ZMeteringMetering determines how the camera sets exposure. The following options are available:Method Descriptiona3D color matrix IIRecommended in

101ZTo choose a metering method, rotate the metering selector until the desired mode is displayed.A 3D Color Matrix II MeteringIn matrix metering, exp

102ZExposure ModeExposure mode determines how the camera sets shutter speed and aperture when adjusting exposure. Four modes are available: programmed

103ZTo choose the exposure mode, press the I button and rotate the main command dial until the desired mode is displayed in the control panel or viewf

xiViewing Photographs... 53Deleting Unwanted Photographs...

104Ze: Programmed AutoIn this mode, the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture according to a built-in program to ensure optimal expo

105ZA Flexible ProgramIn exposure mode e, different combinations of shutter speed and aperture can be selected by rotating the main command dial (“fle

106Zf: Shutter-Priority AutoIn shutter-priority auto, you choose the shutter speed while the camera automatically selects the aperture that will produ

107Zg: Aperture-Priority AutoIn aperture-priority auto, you choose the aperture while the camera automatically selects the shutter speed that will pro

108Z3 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot.A Non-CPU LensesIf the maximum aperture of the lens has been specified using the [Non-CPU lens data] item i

109Zh: ManualIn manual exposure mode, you control both shutter speed and aperture. To take photographs in manual exposure mode:1 Select exposure mode

110Z2 Choose aperture and shutter speed.Rotate the main command dial to choose a shutter speed, and the sub-command dial to set aperture. Shutter spee

111ZA Electronic Analog Exposure DisplaysThe electronic analog exposure displays in the control panel and viewfinder show whether the photograph would

112ZAutoexposure (AE) LockUse autoexposure lock to recompose photographs after metering exposure.1 Select center-weighted or spot metering (pg. 100).M

113Z3 Recompose the photograph.Keeping the AE-L/AF-L button pressed, recompose the photograph and shoot.A Metered AreaIn spot metering, exposure will

xiiExposure 99Metering ...100Exposure Mode...

114ZExposure CompensationExposure compensation is used to alter exposure from the value suggested by the camera, making pictures brighter or darker.In

115ZExposure compensation can be set to values between –5 EV (underexposure) and +5 EV (overexposure) in increments of 1/3 EV. In general, choose posi

116ZBracketingThe D300 offers three types of bracketing: exposure bracketing, flash bracketing, and white balance bracketing. In exposure bracketing (

117Z❚❚ Exposure and Flash Bracketing1 Select flash or exposure bracketing.Choose the type of bracketing to be performed using Custom Setting e5 ([Auto

118Z3 Select an exposure increment.Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the exposure increment.At default settings, the size

119Z4 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot.The camera will vary exposure and/or flash level shot-by-shot according to the bracketing program selected.

120Z❚❚ Canceling BracketingTo cancel bracketing, press the Fn button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequ

121Z❚❚ White Balance Bracketing1 Select white balance bracketing.Choose [WB bracketing] for Custom Setting e5 [Auto bracketing set] (pg. 297).2 Choose

122Z3 Select a white balance increment.Pressing the Fn button, rotate the sub-command dial to choose the white balance adjustment. Each increment is r

123Z4 Frame a photograph, focus, and shoot.Each shot will be processed to create the number of copies specified in the bracketing program, and each co

xiiiOther Shooting Options 181Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings ...182Multiple Exposure ...

124Z❚❚ Canceling BracketingTo cancel bracketing, press the Fn button and rotate the main command dial until the number of shots in the bracketing sequ

r125rWhite Balance– Keeping Colors TrueThe color of light reflected from an object varies with the color of the light source. The human brain is able

126rWhite Balance OptionsFor natural coloration, choose a white balance setting that matches the light source before shooting. The following options a

127rAuto white balance is recommended with most light sources. If the desired results can not be achieved with auto white balance, choose an option fr

128rA Studio Flash LightingAuto white balance may not produce the desired results with large studio flash units. Choose a color temperature, use prese

129rFine-Tuning White BalanceWhite balance can be “fine tuned” to compensate for variations in the color of the light source or to introduce a deliber

130r2 Fine tune white balance.Use the multi selector to fine-tune white balance. White balance can be fine tuned on the amber (A)–blue (B) axis and th

131rA White Balance Fine TuningThe colors on the fine-tuning axes are relative, not absolute. For example, moving the cursor to B (blue) when a “warm”

132r❚❚ The WB ButtonAt settings other than K ([Choose color temp.]) and L ([Preset manual]), the WB button can be used to fine-tune white balance on t

133rChoosing a Color TemperatureWhen K ([Choose color temp.]) is selected for white balance, color temperature can be selected by pressing the WB butt

xivMenu Guide 245D The Playback Menu: Managing Images...246Delete...

134rPreset ManualPreset manual is used to record and recall custom white balance settings for shooting under mixed lighting or to compensate for light

135rThe camera can store up to five values for preset white balance in presets d-0 through d-4. A descriptive comment can be added to any white balanc

136r❚❚ Measuring a Value for White Balance1 Light a reference object.Place a neutral gray or white object under the lighting that will be used in the

137r3 Select direct measurement mode.Release the WB button briefly and then press the button until the L icon in the control panel and viewfinder star

138rIf lighting is too dark or too bright, the camera may be unable to measure white balance. A flashing ba will appear in the control panel and viewf

139r❚❚Copying White Balance from d-0 to Presets d-1–d-4Follow the steps below to copy a measured value for white balance from d-0 to any of the other

140r❚❚ Copying White Balance from a Photograph (d-1–d-4 Only)Follow the steps below to copy a value for white balance from a photograph on the memory

141r4 Highlight a source image.Highlight the source image. To view the highlighted image full frame, press the X button.5 Copy white balance.Press the

142r❚❚ Selecting a White Balance PresetTo set white balance to a preset value:1 Select L ([Preset manual]).Highlight [Preset manual] in the white bala

143rA Selecting a White Balance Preset: the WB ButtonAt a setting of L ([Preset manual]), presets can also be selected by pressing the WB button and r

xva3: Dynamic AF Area ...269a4: Focus Tracking with Lock-On...

144r❚❚ Entering a CommentFollow the steps below to enter a descriptive comment of up to thirty-six characters for a selected white balance preset.1 Se

J145JImage EnhancementThis chapter describes how to optimize sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation and hue using Picture Controls, how to prese

146JPicture ControlsNikon’s unique Picture Control system makes it possible to share image processing settings among compatible devices and software.

147J❚❚ Using Picture ControlsPicture Controls can be used as described below.• Select Nikon Picture Controls (pg. 148): Select an existing Nikon Pictu

148JSelecting Nikon Picture ControlsThe camera offers four preset Nikon Picture Controls. Choose a Picture Control according to the subject or type of

149JA The Picture Control GridPressing the W button in Step 2 displays a Picture Control grid showing the contrast and saturation for the selected Pic

150JModifying Existing Picture ControlsExisting Nikon or custom Picture Controls can be modified to suit the scene or the user’s creative intent. Choo

151J❚❚ Picture Control SettingsOption DescriptionQuick adjustChoose from options between [–2] and [+2] to reduce or exaggerate the effect of the selec

152JD Active D-Lighting[Contrast] and [Brightness] can not be adjusted when Active D-Lighting (pg. 165) is on. Any manual adjustments currently in eff

153JA Filter Effects (Monochrome Only)The options in this menu simulate the effect of color filters on monochrome photographs. The following filter ef

xvie7: Bracketing Order ...299f: Controls ...

154JCreating Custom Picture ControlsThe Nikon Picture Controls supplied with the camera can be modified and saved as custom Picture Controls.1 Select

155J3 Select a Picture Control.Highlight an existing Picture Control and press 2, or press J to proceed to step 5 to save a copy of the highlighted Pi

156J6 Name the Picture Control.The text-entry dialog shown at right will be displayed. By default, new Picture Controls are named by adding a two-digi

157JA Custom Picture ControlsCustom Picture Controls are not affected by [Reset shooting menu] (pg. 257).Custom Picture Controls do not have a [Quick

158JSharing Custom Picture ControlsCustom Picture Controls created using the Picture Control Utility available with ViewNX version 1.2.0 or later or o

159J4 Select a destination.Choose a destination for the custom Picture Control (C-1 through C-9) and press 2.5 Name the Picture Control.Name the Pictu

160J❚❚ Saving Custom Picture Controls to the Memory Card1 Select [Copy to card].After displaying the [Load/save] menu as described in Step 1 on page 1

161JManaging Custom Picture ControlsFollow the steps below to rename or delete custom Picture Controls.❚❚ Renaming Custom Picture Controls1 Select [Re

162J❚❚ Deleting Custom Picture Controls from the Camera1 Select [Delete].In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Delete] and press 2.2 Select

163J❚❚ Deleting Custom Picture Controls from the Memory Card1 Select [Load/save].In the [Manage Picture Control] menu, highlight [Load/save] and press

xviiMonochrome ...337Filter Effects ...

164J3 Select a Picture Control.Highlight a custom Picture Control (slot1 through 99) and either;• press 2 to view current Picture Control settings, or

165JActive D-LightingActive D-Lighting preserves details in highlights and shadows, creating photographs with natural contrast. Use for high contrast

166JTo use active D-Lighting:1 Select [Active D-Lighting].In the shooting menu (pg. 254), highlight [Active D-Lighting] and press 2.2 Choose an option

167JColor SpaceThe color space determines the gamut of colors available for color reproduction. Choose a color space according to how photographs will

168JA Color SpaceColor spaces define the correspondence between colors and the numeric values that represent them in a digital image file. The sRGB co

l169lFlash Photography– Using the Built-in FlashThis chapter describes how to use the built-in flash.The Built-in Flash...

170lThe Built-in FlashThe built-in flash has a Guide Number (GN) 17/56 (m/ft, ISO 200, 20 °C/68 °F). It supports i-TTL balanced fill-flash for digital

171lUsing the Built-in FlashFollow these steps when using the built-in flash.1 Choose a metering method (pg. 100).Select matrix or center-weighted met

172l4 Check exposure (shutter speed and aperture).Press the shutter-release button halfway and check shutter speed and aperture. The settings availabl

173lLowering the Built-in FlashTo save power when the flash is not in use, press it gently downward until the latch clicks into place.D The Built-in F

Where to Find ItFind what you’re looking for from:DigitutorDigitutor, a series of “watch and learn” manuals in movie form, is available from the follo

xviiiFor Your SafetyTo prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others, read the following safety precautions in their entiret

174lFlash ModesThe D300 supports the following flash modes:Flash mode DescriptionFront-curtain syncThis mode is recommended for most situations. In pr

175lRear-curtain syncIn shutter-priority auto or manual exposure mode, flash fires just before the shutter closes. Use to create effect of a stream of

176lFlash CompensationFlash compensation is used to alter flash output by from –3EV to +1EV in increments of 1/3 EV, changing the brightness of the ma

177lA Optional Flash UnitsFlash compensation is also available with optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, and SB-R200 flash units.A See AlsoFor inf

178lFV LockThis feature is used to lock flash output, allowing photographs to be recomposed without changing the flash level and ensuring that flash o

179l4 Lock flash level.After confirming that the flash ready indicator (M) is displayed in the viewfinder, press the Fn button. The flash will emit a

180lD Using FV Lock with the Built-in FlashFV lock is only available with the built-in flash when [TTL] (the default option) is selected for Custom Se

t181tOther Shooting OptionsThis chapter covers restoring default settings, making multiple exposures, interval timer photography, and using GPS units

182tTwo-Button Reset: Restoring Default SettingsThe camera settings listed below can be restored to default values by holding the QUAL and E buttons d

183tThe following shooting-menu options will also be reset. Only settings in the bank currently selected using the [Shooting menu bank] option will be

xixA Do not use in the presence of flammable gasDo not use electronic equipment in the presence of flammable gas, as this could result in explosion or

184tMultiple ExposureFollow the steps below to record a series of two to ten exposures in a single photograph. Multiple exposures can be recorded at a

185t3 Select the number of shots.Press 1 or 3 to choose the number of exposures that will be combined to form a single photograph and press J.4 Select

186t6 Select [Done].Highlight [Done] and press J. A n icon will be displayed in the control panel. To exit without taking a multiple exposure, select

187tD Multiple ExposureDo not remove or replace the memory card while recording a multiple exposure.Live view (pg. 79) can not be used to record multi

188t❚❚ Interrupting Multiple ExposuresSelecting [Multiple exposure] in the shooting menu while a multiple exposure is being recorded displays the opti

189tInterval Timer PhotographyThe D300 is equipped to take photographs automatically at preset intervals.1 Select [Interval timer shooting].Highlight

190t3 Choose a start time.Press 4 or 2 to highlight hours or minutes; press 1 or 3 to change. The starting time is not displayed if [Now] is selected

191t5 Choose the number of intervals and number of shots per interval.Press 4 or 2 to highlight number of intervals or number of shots; press 1 or 3 t

192tD Out of MemoryIf the memory card is full, the interval timer will remain active but no pictures will be taken. Resume shooting (pg. 193) after de

193t❚❚ Pausing Interval Timer PhotographyInterval time photography can be paused by:• Pressing the J button between intervals• Highlighting [Start] &g

xxA Observe proper precautions when handling the quick charger• Keep dry. Failure to observe this precaution could result in fire or electric shock.•

194t❚❚ Interrupting Interval Timer PhotographyInterval timer shooting will end automatically if the battery is exhausted. Interval timer photography c

195tA Shooting Menu BanksChanges to interval timer settings apply to all shooting menu banks (pg. 255). If shooting menu settings are reset using the

196tNon-CPU LensesBy specifying lens data (lens focal length and maximum aperture), the user can gain access to a variety of CPU lens functions when u

197t❚❚ The Non-CPU Lens Data Menu1 Select [Non-CPU lens data].Highlight [Non-CPU lens data] in the setup menu (pg. 311) and press 2.2 Select a lens nu

198t5 Select [Done].Highlight [Done] and press J. The specified focal length and aperture will be stored under the chosen lens number. This combinatio

199tUsing a GPS UnitA GPS unit can be connected to the ten-pin remote terminal, allowing the current latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Univer

200t❚❚ Other GPS UnitsOptional Garmin GPS units that conform to version 2.01 or 3.01 of the National Marine Electronics Association NMEA0183 data form

201t❚❚ The k IconWhen the camera establishes communication with a GPS device, a k icon will be displayed in the control panel. Photo information for p

202t❚❚ Setup Menu OptionsThe [GPS] item in the setup menu contains the options listed below.• [Auto meter off]: Choose whether or not the exposure met

I203IMore About Playback– Playback OptionsThis chapter describes how to play back photographs and details the operations that can be performed during

xxiNotices•No part of the manuals included with this product may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated

204IFull-Frame PlaybackTo play photographs back, press the K button. The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor.A Rotate TallTo displ

205IA Image ReviewWhen [On] is selected for [Image review] in the playback menu (pg. 251), photographs are automatically displayed in the monitor for

206IPhoto InformationPhoto information is superimposed on images displayed in full-frame playback. There are up to 9 pages of information for each pho

207I❚❚ File Information* Displayed only if [Focus point] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 250).1/ 10 100ND300 15/12/2007 10:15 :29 4288x2848 NNORO

208I❚❚ Highlights11 Displayed only if [Highlights] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 250).2 Blinking areas indicate highlights (areas that may be ov

209I❚❚ RGB Histogram11 Displayed only if [RGB histogram] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 250).2 Blinking areas indicate highlights (areas that may

210I3 Some sample histograms are shown below:• If the image contains objects with a wide range of brightnesses, the distribution of tones will be rela

211I❚❚ Shooting Data Page 111 Displayed only if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 250).2 Displayed in red if photo was taken with ISO sensiti

212I❚❚ Shooting Data Page 211 Displayed only if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 250).2 [Standard] and [Vivid] Picture Controls only.3 [Neut

213I❚❚ Shooting Data Page 3** Displayed only if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 250).NOI SE REDUC. ACT. D–LIGHT. RETOUCH COMMENT : HI I

xxiiNotices for Customers in CanadaCAUTIONThis Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.ATT EN TIONCet appareil numérique de la class

214I❚❚ Shooting Data Page 4** Displayed only if [Data] is selected for [Display mode] (pg. 250) and copyright information was appended to photograph (

215I❚❚ GPS Data11 Displayed only if GPS device was used when photo was taken (pg. 199).2 Displayed only if GPS device is equipped with electronic comp

216I❚❚ Overview Data* Displayed in red if photo was taken with ISO sensitivity auto control on. 100ND300 DSC_0001. JPG 1/8000, F4. 8

217I 100ND300 DSC_0001. JPG 1/8000, F4. 8 HI 0. 3 35mm –1. 3 +1. 3 REAR 10000 A6, M1 NIKON D300 15

218IViewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail PlaybackTo display images in “contact sheets” of four or nine images, press the W button.WXFull-frame Thumbnai

219IThe following operations can be performed while thumbnails are displayed:A See AlsoFor information on choosing the role played by the center of th

220ITaking a Closer Look: Playback ZoomPress the X button to zoom in on the image displayed in full-frame playback or on the image currently highlight

221IProtecting Photographs from DeletionIn full-frame, zoom, and thumbnail playback, the L button can be used to protect photographs from accidental d

222IDeleting Individual PhotographsTo delete the photograph displayed in full-frame playback or the photograph highlighted in the thumbnail list, pres

Q223QConnections– Connecting to External DevicesThis chapter describes how to copy photographs to a computer, how to print pictures, and how to view t

xxiiiNotice Concerning Prohibition of Copying or ReproductionNote that simply being in possession of material that has been digitally copied or reprod

224QConnecting to a ComputerThis section describes how to connect the camera to a computer using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable. Once the camera is conn

225Q❚❚ Before Connecting the CameraInstall the necessary software from the supplied installer CD (see the Install Guide for more information). To ensu

226QDirect USB ConnectionConnect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable.1 Select a USB option.Before connecting the camera to the computer, mak

227Q5 Turn the camera on.If [Mass Storage] is selected for [USB] (pg. 225), c will be displayed in the control panel and viewfinder, and the PC conne

228Q7 Turn the camera off.If [MTP/PTP] is selected for [USB], the camera can be turned off and the USB cable disconnected once transfer is complete. I

229QWireless and Ethernet NetworksIf the optional WT-4 wireless transmitter is attached, photographs can be transferred or printed over wireless or Et

230QPrinting PhotographsPhotographs can be printed by any of the following methods:• Connect the camera to a printer and print JPEG photographs direct

231QDirect USB ConnectionIf the camera is connected to a PictBridge printer via the supplied USB cable, selected JPEG pictures can be printed directly

232Q❚❚ Connecting the PrinterConnect the camera using the supplied UC-E4 USB cable.1 Select [MTP/PTP].If the [USB] option in the camera setup menu has

233Q❚❚ Printing Pictures One at a Time1 Select a picture.Press 4 or 2 to view additional pictures, or press the X button to zoom in on the current fra

xxivA Before Taking Important PicturesBefore taking pictures on important occasions (such as at weddings or before taking the camera on a trip), take

234Q3 Adjust printing options.Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select.Option DescriptionPage sizeMenu shown at right will be display

235Q4 Start printing.Select [Start printing] and press J to start printing. To cancel before all copies have been printed, press J.D Selecting Photog

236QPrinting Multiple Pictures1 Display the PictBridge menu.Press the G button in the PictBridge playback display (see Step 4 on page 232).2 Choose [P

237Q3 Select pictures.Use the multi selector to scroll through the pictures on the memory card. To display the current picture full screen, press X bu

238Q5 Adjust printing options.Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option and press 2 to select.6 Start printing.Select [Start printing] and press J to start

239Q❚❚ Creating Index PrintsTo create an index print of all JPEG pictures on the memory card, select [Index print] in Step 2 of “Printing Multiple Pic

240Q❚❚ Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print SetThe [Print set (DPOF)] option in the playback menu is used to create digital “print orders” for PictBridg

241Q3 Select imprint options.Highlight the following options and press 2 to toggle the highlighted option on or off (to complete the print order witho

242QViewing Photographs on TVThe supplied EG-D100 video cable can be used to connect the D300 to a television or VCR for playback or recording. A type

243QA Video Mode (pg. 313)Be sure that the video standard matches the standard used in the video device. Note that resolution will drop when images ar

X1XIntroductionThis chapter covers information you will need to know before using the camera, including the names of camera parts.Overview...

244QHigh-Definition DevicesThe camera can be connected to HDMI devices using a type A HDMI cable (available separately from commercial sources).1 Turn

U245UMenu GuideThis chapter describes the options available in the camera menus.D The Playback Menu: Managing Images ... pg. 246CThe Shoo

246UDThe Playback Menu: Managing ImagesThe playback menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the playback menu, see “Tutorial:

247USelecting Multiple PicturesTo select multiple pictures for [Delete] (pg. 248), [Hide image] (pg. 249), [Print set (DPOF)] (pg. 240), and direct pr

248U3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 to select additional pictures.To deselect a picture, highlight it and press center of multi selector.4 Press J to complete

249UPlayback FolderChoose a folder for playback.Hide ImageHide or reveal selected pictures. Hidden pictures are visible only in the [Hide image] menu

250UDisplay ModeChoose the information available in the playback photo information display (pg. 206). Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option, then press

251UImage ReviewChoose whether pictures are automatically displayed in the monitor immediately after shooting.After DeleteChoose the picture displayed

252USlide ShowCreate a slide show of the pictures in the current playback folder (pg. 249). Hidden images (pg. 249) are not displayed.To start the sli

253UPrint Set (DPOF)Choose [Select/set] to select pictures for printing on a DPOF-compatible device (pg. 240). Choose [Deselect all?] to remove all pi

2XOverviewThank you for your purchase of a Nikon single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. Please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly to get t

254UC The Shooting Menu:Shooting OptionsThe shooting menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the shooting menu, see “Tutorial

255UShooting Menu BankShooting menu options are stored in one of four banks. With the exceptions of [Interval timer shooting], [Multiple exposure], an

256U2 Enter a name.To move the cursor in the name area, press the W button and press 4 or 2. To enter a new letter at the current cursor position, use

257UReset Shooting MenuChoose whether to restore default settings for the current shooting menu bank. See page 401 for a list of default settings. Wit

258UActive FolderSelect the folder in which subsequent images will be stored.❚❚ New Folder Number1 Select [New folder number].Highlight [New folder nu

259U❚❚ Select Folder1 Choose [Select folder].Highlight [Select folder] and press 2.2 Highlight a folder.Press 1 or 3 to highlight a folder.3 Select th

260UFile NamingPhotographs are saved using file names consisting of “DSC_” or, in the case of images that use the Adobe RGB color space, “_DSC”, follo

261UNEF (RAW) RecordingChoose compression and bit-depth options for NEF (RAW) images (pg. 58).White BalanceAdjust white balance settings (pg. 126).Set

262ULong Exp. NR (Long Exposure Noise Reduction)Choose whether to reduce noise in pictures taken at slow shutter speeds.Option DescriptionOnPhotograph

263UHigh ISO NRPhotographs taken at high ISO sensitivities can be processed to reduce “noise.”ISO Sensitivity SettingsAdjust ISO sensitivity and ISO s

3XGetting to Know the CameraTake a few moments to familiarize yourself with camera controls and displays. You may find it helpful to bookmark this se

264UACustom Settings:Fine-Tuning Camera SettingsCustom Settings are used to customize camera settings to suit individual preferences. In addition to C

265UThe following Custom Settings are available:Custom Setting PageB Custom setting bank266A Reset custom settings266a Autofocusa1 AF-C priority selec

266UC: Custom Setting BankCustom Settings are stored in one of four banks. Changes to settings in one bank have no effect on the others. To store a pa

267Ua1: AF-C Priority SelectionThis option controls whether photographs can be taken whenever the shutter-release button is pressed (release priority)

268Ua2: AF-S Priority SelectionThis option controls whether photographs can be taken only when the camera is in focus (focus priority) or whenever the

269Ua3: Dynamic AF AreaIf the subject leaves the selected focus point when dynamic-area AF (I; pg. 64) is selected in continuous-servo AF (focus mode

270UA 3D-trackingWhen the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, the colors in the area surrounding the focus point are stored in the camera. Cons

271Ua5: AF ActivationThis option controls whether both the shutter-release button and the B button can be used to initiate autofocus, or whether autof

272Ua7: Focus Point Wrap-AroundChoose whether focus-point selection “wraps around” from one edge of the viewfinder to another.a8: AF Point SelectionCh

273Ua9: Built-in AF-assist IlluminatorChoose whether the built-in AF-assist illuminator lights to assist the focus operation when lighting is poor.A T

iPackage ContentsBe sure all items listed here were included with your camera. Memory cards are sold separately.• D300 digital camera (pg. 3)• Body ca

4XCamera Body (Continued)123458131415166791011121 Built-in flash ... 1712 Flash pop-up button... 1713 M (flash

274Ua10: AF-On for MB-D10Choose the function assigned to the B button on the optional MB-D10 battery pack.Option DescriptionAAF-ON(default)Pressing th

275Ub1: ISO Sensitivity Step Valueb2: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl.This option determines whether adjustments to shutter speed, aperture, and bracketin

276Ub4: Easy Exposure CompensationThis option controls whether the E button is needed to set exposure compensation (pg. 114). If [On (Auto reset)] or

277Ub5: Center-Weighted AreaNote that the diameter is fixed at 8 mm when a non-CPU lens is used, regardless of the setting selected for [Non-CPU lens

278U2 Select [Yes].The message shown at right will be displayed; highlight [Yes] and press 2 to proceed, or select [No] to exit without altering expos

279Uc1: Shutter-Release Button AE-LAt the default setting of [Off], exposure only locks when the AE-L/AF-L button is pressed. If [On] is selected, exp

280Uc3: Self-Timer Delayc4: Monitor off DelayThis option controls the length of the shutter release delay in self-timer mode. Choose from 2s, 5s, 10s

281Ud1: BeepChoose [High] or [Low] to sound a beep when the self-timer is used or the camera focuses in single-servo autofocus (note that a beep will

282Ud3: Viewfinder Warning DisplayChoose whether low battery warning is displayed in the viewfinder.d4: CL Mode Shooting SpeedThis option determines t

283Ud6: File Number SequenceWhen a photograph is taken, the camera names the file by adding one to the last file number used. This option controls whe

5X1234567121198101 AF-assist illuminator ... 273Self-timer lamp ...90Red-eye reduction lamp... 1742 Sub-comm

284Ud7: Shooting Info DisplayAt the default setting of [Auto] (AUTO), the color of the lettering in the information display (pg. 12) will automaticall

285Ud8: LCD IlluminationAt the default setting of [Off ], the control panel backlight (LCD illuminator) will only light while the power switch is in t

286UA Using AA BatteriesEN-EL4a or EN-EL4 rechargeable Li-ion batteries (available separately) or EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion batteries are recommende

287Ud11: Battery OrderChoose whether the battery in the camera or the batteries in the battery pack are used first when an optional MB-D10 battery pac

288Ue1: Flash Sync SpeedThis option controls flash sync speed.A Fixing Shutter Speed at the Flash Sync Speed LimitTo fix shutter speed at the sync spe

289UFlash Control at [1/320 s (Auto FP)]When [1/320 s (Auto FP)] is selected for Custom Setting e1 ([Flash sync speed], pg. 288), the built-in flash c

290Ue2: Flash Shutter SpeedThis option determines the slowest shutter speed available when using front- or rear-curtain sync or red-eye reduction in p

291Ue3: Flash Cntrl for Built-in FlashChoose the flash mode for the built-in flash.A “Manual” and “Repeating Flash”Y icons blink in the control panel

292U❚❚ ManualChoose a flash level between [Full] and [1/128] (1/128 of full power). At full power, the built-in flash has a Guide Number of 18/59 (m/f

293U❚❚ Commander ModeUse the built-in flash as a master flash controlling one or more remote optional SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 flash units i

6XCamera Body (Continued)134567891021 Viewfinder eyepiece...432 DK-23 viewfindereyepiece cup...203 O (de

294UFollow the steps below to take photographs in commander mode.1 Adjust settings for the built-in flash.Choose the flash control mode and output lev

295U6 Compose the shot.Compose the shot and arrange the flash units as shown below. Note that the maximum distance at which the remote flash units can

296UA The Flash Sync Mode DisplayM does not appear in the control panel flash sync mode display when [– –] is selected for [Built-in flash] > [Mode

297Ue4: Modeling FlashIf [On] (the default setting) is selected when the camera is being used with the built-in flash or an optional SB-900, SB-800, S

298Ue6: Auto Bracketing (Mode M)This option determines which settings are affected when [AE & flash] or [AE only] is selected for Custom Setting e

299Ue7: Bracketing OrderAt the default setting of [MTR]>[under]>[over] (H), bracketing is performed in the order described on pages 118 and 122.

300Uf1: Multi Selector Center ButtonThis option determines what operations can be performed by pressing the center of the multi selector in shooting a

301Uf2: Multi SelectorIf [Reset meter-off delay] is selected, operating the multi selector when the exposure meters are off (pg. 46) will activate the

302Uf4: Assign FUNC. ButtonChoose the role played by the Fn button, either by itself ([FUNC. button press]) or when used in combination with the comma

303UtBracketing burstIf the Fn button is pressed while exposure or flash bracketing is active in single frame release mode, all shots in the current b

7X1 2543678101191 Diopter adjustment control ...432 Metering selector... 1013 A (AE/AF lock) button ... 68

304U❚❚ FUNC. Button+DialsSelecting [FUNC. button+dials] for Custom Setting f4 displays the following options:Option Descriptionv1 step spd/apertureIf

305Uf5: Assign Preview ButtonChoose the role played by the depth-of-field preview button, either by itself ([Preview button press]) or when used in co

306Uf6: Assign AE-L/AF-L ButtonChoose the role played by the AE-L/AF-L button, either by itself ([AE-L/AF-L button press]) or when used in combination

307Uf7: Customize Command DialsThis option controls the operation of the main and sub-command dials.Option DescriptionReverse rotationControls the dir

308Uf8: Release Button to Use DialThis option allows adjustments that are normally made by holding a button and rotating a command dial to be made by

309Uf9: No Memory Card?At the default setting of [Enable release], the shutter can be released when no memory card is inserted, although no pictures w

310Uf10: Reverse IndicatorsAt the default setting of (V), the exposure indicators in the control panel, viewfinder and shooting information display

311UB The Setup Menu: Camera SetupThe setup menu contains the options listed below. For information on using the setup menu, see “Tutorial: Camera Men

312UFormat Memory CardFormat the card. Note that formatting permanently deletes all pictures and other data on the card. Before formatting, be sure to

313UClean Image SensorSelect this option to remove dust from the image sensor or to choose options for automatic image sensor cleaning (pg. 373).Lock

8XThe Control Panel21345678911101213141516171Color temperature indicator... 1332Shutter speed ... 106, 109Exposure compensationv

314UHDMIThe camera is equipped with an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connector, allowing pictures to be played back on high-definition t

315UWorld TimeChange time zones, set the camera clock, choose the date display order, and turn daylight saving time on or off.LanguageChoose a languag

316UImage CommentAdd a comment to new photographs as they are taken. Comments can be viewed in ViewNX version 1.2.0 or later or in Capture NX version

317UAuto Image RotationPhotographs taken while [On] (the default option) is selected contain information on camera orientation, allowing them to be ro

318UUSBChoose a USB option for connection to a computer or PictBridge printer. Choose [MTP/PTP] (the default setting) when connecting to a PictBridge

319U1 Choose a start option.Highlight one of the following options and press J. To exit without acquiring image dust off data, press G.• [Start]: The

320U3 Acquire dust off reference data.Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to acquire Image Dust Off reference data. The monitor

321UBattery InfoView information on the battery currently inserted in the camera.Item DescriptionBat. meter The current battery level expressed as a p

322UA The MB-D10 Battery PackThe information displayed when the camera is powered by an optional MB-D10 battery pack depends on the type of batteries

323UImage AuthenticationChoose whether to embed image authentication information in new photographs as they are taken, allowing alterations to be dete

9X191820212223243125262827302914 Flash mode... 17115 “Beep” indicator ... 28116 Aperture (f-numb

324UCopyright InformationAdd copyright information to new photographs as they are taken. Copyright information is visible on the fourth shooting data

325USave/Load SettingsSelect [Save settings] to save the following settings to the camera memory card (if the memory card is full, an error will be di

326USettings saved using the D300 can be restored by selecting [Load settings]. Note that [Save/load settings] is only available when a memory card is

327UNon-CPU Lens DataBy specifying lens data (lens focal length and maximum aperture) for up to nine non-CPU lenses, the user can gain access to a var

328UD AF TuningThe camera may be unable to focus at minimum range or at infinity when AF tuning is applied.D Live View (Tripod) ModeTuning is not appl

329UN The Retouch Menu:Creating Retouched CopiesThe options in the retouch menu are used to create trimmed, or retouched copies of the photographs on

330UCreating Retouched CopiesExcept in the case of [Image overlay] (pg. 339) and [Side-by-side comparison] (pg. 342), the photographs to be retouched

331U4 Create a retouched copy.Press J to create a retouched copy. Retouched copies are indicated by a N icon.❚❚ Creating Retouched Copies from the Ret

332U3 Display retouch options.Press J to display retouch options (see the section for the selected option for details). To exit without creating a ret

333UD Retouching CopiesCopies created with [Trim] can not be further modified. D-lighting, red-eye correction, filter effects, and color balance can n

10XThe Viewfinder Display142356 7 12911810131415161718 20 2119

334UD-LightingD-lighting brightens shadows, making it ideal for dark or backlit photographs.Press 1 or 3 to choose the amount of correction performed.

335URed-Eye CorrectionThis option is used to correct “red-eye” caused by the flash, and is available only with photographs taken using the flash. The

336UTrimCreate a cropped copy of the selected photograph. The selected photograph is displayed with the selected crop shown in yellow; create a croppe

337UD Trim: Image Quality and SizeCopies created from NEF (RAW), NEF (RAW) + JPEG, or TIFF (RGB) photos have an image quality (pg. 56) of JPEG fine; c

338UFilter EffectsChoose from the following color filter effects. After adjusting filter effects as described below, press J to copy the photograph.Co

339UImage OverlayImage overlay combines two existing NEF (RAW) photographs to create a single picture that is saved separately from the originals with

340U4 Select the highlighted photograph.Press J to select the highlighted photograph and return to the preview display. The selected image will appear

341U8 Preview the overlay.Press 1 or 3 to highlight [Overlay] and press J (to save the overlay without displaying a preview, highlight [Save] and pres

342USide-by-Side ComparisonCompare retouched copies to the original photographs.❚❚ Making a Side-by-Side Comparison1 Select a picture.Use the multi se

343U3 Compare the copy with the original.The source image is displayed on the left, the retouched copy on the right, with the options used to create t

11XD No BatteryWhen the battery is totally exhausted or no battery is inserted, the display in the viewfinder will dim. This is normal and does not in

344UO My Menu:Creating a Custom MenuThe [My Menu] option can be used to create and edit a customized list of options from the playback, shooting, Cust

345U4 Position the new item.Press 1 or 3 to move the new item up or down in My Menu. Press J to add the new item.5 Add more items.The items currently

346UDeleting Options from My Menu1 Select [Remove items].In My Menu (O), highlight [Remove items] and press 2.2 Select items.Highlight items and press

347UReordering Options in My Menu1 Select [Rank items].In My Menu (O), highlight [Rank items] and press 2.2 Select an item.Highlight the item you wish

348UDisplaying Recent SettingsTo display the twenty most recently used settings, select [Recent settings] for [My Menu] > [Choose tab].1 Select [Ch

n349nTechnical Notes – Camera Care, Options, and ResourcesThis chapter covers the following topics:Compatible Lenses...

350nCompatible Lenses1 IX-Nikkor lenses can not be used.2 Vibration Reduction (VR) supported with VR lenses.3 Spot metering meters selected focus poin

351n9 When focusing at minimum focus distance with AF 80–200mm f/2.8, AF 35–70mm f/2.8, AF 28–85mm f/3.5–4.5 <New>, or AF 28–85mm f/3.5–4.5 lens

352nD Incompatible Accessories and Non-CPU LensesThe following accessories and non-CPU lenses can NOT be used with the D300:• TC-16AS AF teleconverter

353nA The AF-S/AF-I TeleconverterThe AF-S/AF-I teleconverter can be used with the following AF-S and AF-I lenses:• AF-S VR Micro 105mm f/2.8G ED1• AF-

12XThe Shooting Information DisplayShooting information, including shutter speed, aperture, the number of exposures remaining, buffer capacity, and AF

354nA The Built-in FlashThe built-in flash can be used with CPU lenses with focal lengths of 18–300mm. Remove lens hoods to prevent shadows. The flash

355nD Red-Eye ReductionLenses that block the subject’s view of the AF-assist illuminator may interfere with red-eye reduction.D AF-Assist Illumination

356nA Calculating Picture AngleThe size of the area exposed by a 35mm camera is 36 × 24 mm. The size of the area exposed by the D300, in contrast, is

357nOptional Flash Units (Speedlights)The D300 can be used with CLS-compatible flash units.The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)Nikon’s advanced Cr

358n❚❚ CLS-Compatible Flash UnitsThe D300 can be used with the following CLS-compatible flash units: the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, SB-R200, and

359nA Guide NumberTo calculate the range of the flash at full power, divide the Guide Number by the aperture. For example, at ISO 100 the SB-800 has a

360nThe following features are available with the SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, SB-400, SB-R200, and SU-800:1 Only available when SU-800 is used to control

361nOther Flash UnitsThe following flash units can be used in non-TTL auto and manual modes. If they are set to TTL, the camera shutter-release butto

362nD Notes on Optional SpeedlightsRefer to the Speedlight manual for detailed instructions. If the Speedlight supports the Nikon Creative Lighting S

363nWhen an SC-series 17, 28, or 29 sync cable is used for off-camera flash photography, correct exposure may not be achieved in i-TTL mode. We recom

13X1Exposure mode... 1022Flexible program indicator ... 1053Flash sync indicator... 2884Sh

364nFlash ContactsThe D300 is equipped with an accessory shoe for attaching optional flash units directly to the camera and a sync terminal that allow

365nOther AccessoriesAt the time of writing, the following accessories were available for the D300.Power sources• Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e

366nViewfinder eyepiece accessories• Diopter-Adjustment Viewfinder Lens DK-20C: To accommodate individual differences in vision, viewfinder lenses are

367nFilters• Nikon filters can be divided into three types: screw-in, slip-in, and rear-interchange. Use Nikon filters; filters manufactured by other

368nSoftware• Capture NX: A complete photo editing package.• Capture NX 2: A complete photo editing package with such advanced editing features as sel

369nRemote terminal accessoriesThe D300 is equipped with a ten-pin remote terminal for remote control and automatic photography. The terminal is provi

370nRemote terminal accessories• Adapter Cord MC-25: Ten-pin to two-pin adapter cord for connection to devices with two-pin terminals, including the M

371n❚❚ Approved Memory CardsThe following cards have been tested and approved for use in the D300:Other cards have not been tested. For more details o

372nCaring for the CameraStorageWhen the camera will not be used for an extended period, replace the monitor cover, remove the battery, and store the

373nThe Low-Pass FilterThe image sensor that acts as the camera’s picture element is fitted with a low-pass filter to prevent moiré. If you suspect th

iiSymbols and ConventionsTo make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions are used:Menu items, options, and m

14XThe Command DialsThe main- and sub-command dials are used alone or in combination with other controls to adjust a variety of settings.I buttonExpos

374n3 Select [Clean now].Highlight [Clean now] and press 2. The message shown at right will be displayed while cleaning is in progress.The message sho

375n2 Select an option.Highlight one of the following options and press J.D Image Sensor CleaningThe following interrupt image sensor cleaning: raisin

376n❚❚ Manual CleaningIf foreign matter can not be removed from the low-pass filter using the [Clean image sensor] (pg. 373) option in the setup menu,

377n4 Raise the mirror.Press the shutter-release button all the way down. The mirror will be raised and the shutter curtain will open, revealing the l

378nD Use a Reliable Power SourceThe shutter curtain is delicate and easily damaged. If the camera powers off while the mirror is raised, the curtain

379nCaring for the Camera and Battery: CautionsDo not drop: The product may malfunction if subjected to strong shocks or vibration.Keep dry: This prod

380nCleaning: When cleaning the camera body, use a blower to gently remove dust and lint, then wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. After using the cam

381nTurn the product off before removing or disconnecting the power source: Do not unplug the product or remove the battery while the product is on or

382nBatteries: Dirt on the battery terminals can prevent the camera from functioning and should be removed with a soft, dry cloth before use.Batteries

383nTroubleshootingIf the camera fails to function as expected, check the list of common problems below before consulting your retailer or Nikon repre

15X❚❚ Image Quality and SizePress the QUAL button and rotate the command dials.Set image quality(pg. 57)Choose an image size (pg. 60)❚❚ ISO Sensitivit

384n❚❚ ShootingProblem Solution PageCamera takes time to turn on.Delete files or folders. —Shutter-release disabled.• Memory card is full or not inser

385nImage size can not be changed.[Image quality] set to [NEF (RAW)]. 56Can not select focus point• Unlock focus selector lock.66• Auto-area AF select

386nAF-assist illuminator does not light.• Camera is in focus mode C.62• Center focus point is not selected for single-point AF or dynamic-area AF.64•

387nEffects of Picture Control differ from image to image.A (auto) is selected for sharpening, contrast, or saturation. For consistent results over a

388n❚❚ PlaybackProblem Solution PageFlashing areas appear in imagesPress 1 or 3 to choose photo information displayed, or change settings for [Display

389nCan not print photos.• Set [USB] to [MTP/PTP].318• NEF (RAW) and TIFF photos can not be printed by direct USB connection. Use DPOF print service (

390n❚❚ MiscellaneousProblem Solution PageDate of recording is not correct.Set camera clock. 37Menu item can not be selected.Some options are not avail

391nError MessagesThis section lists the indicators and error messages that appear in the viewfinder, control panel, and monitor.IndicatorProblem Solu

392nFNo lens attached, or non-CPU lens attached without specifying maximum aperture. Aperture shown in stops from maximum aperture.Aperture value will

393nrSubject too dark; photo will be underexposed.•Use a higher ISO sensitivity94• In exposure mode:e Use flashf Lower shutter speed171106g Choose a l

16X❚❚ ExposurePress the I button and rotate the main command dial to choose the exposure mode.Choose the exposure mode(pg. 102)Use the command dials t

394n—c(blinks)If indicator blinks for 3s after flash fires, photo may be underexposed.Check photo in monitor; if underexposed, adjust settings and try

395nIndicatorProblem Solution PageMonitorControl panelNo memory card.SCamera cannot detect memory card.Turn camera off and confirm that card is correc

396nThis card is not formatted.Format the card.C(blinks)Memory card has not been formatted for use in camera.Format memory card or insert new memory c

397nCannot select this file.—Memory card does not contain images that can be retouched.Images created with other devices can not be retouched.330Check

398nCheck ink supply.—Ink error.Check ink. To resume, select [Continue].231*Out of ink. — Printer is out of ink.Replace ink and select [Continue].231*

399nAppendixThe Appendix covers the following topics:• Defaults ...

400nDefaultsThe following defaults are restored either with a two-button reset or using [Reset shooting menu] or [Reset custom settings].❚❚ Defaults R

401n❚❚ Defaults Restored with [Reset Shooting Menu] (pg. 257)1Option Default[File naming] (pg. 260) DSC[Image quality] (pg. 56) JPEG normal[Image size

402n❚❚ Defaults Restored with [Reset Custom Settings] (pg. 266)*Option Defaulta1 [AF-C priority selection] (pg. 267) Releasea2 [AF-S priority selectio

403nd1 [Beep] (pg. 281) Highd2 [Viewfinder grid display] (pg. 281) Offd3 [Viewfinder warning display] (pg. 282) Ond4 [CL mode shooting speed] (pg. 282

17XSet exposure compensation (pg. 114)Activate or cancel bracketing/select number of shots in bracketing sequence (pp. 117, 120)Select bracketing expo

404nf1[Multi selector center button] (pg. 300)[Shooting mode] Select center focus point[Playback mode] Thumbnail on/offf2 [Multi selector] (pg. 301) D

405nMemory Card CapacityThe following table shows the approximate number of pictures that can be stored on a 2 GB SanDisk Extreme III (SDCFX) card at

406n1 All figures are approximate. File size varies with scene recorded.2 Maximum number of exposures that can be stored in memory buffer at ISO 200.

407nExposure ProgramThe exposure program for programmed auto is shown in the following graph:The maximum and minimum values for EV vary with ISO sensi

408nAperture, Sensitivity, and Flash RangeThe range of the built-in flash varies with sensitivity (ISO equivalency) and aperture.The built-in flash ha

409nSpecifications❚❚ Nikon D300 Digital CameraTypeTypeSingle-lens reflex digital cameraLens mount Nikon F mount (with AF coupling and AF contacts)Effe

410nFile system DCF (Design Rule for Camera File System) 2.0, DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), Exif 2.21 (Exchangeable Image File Format for Digital

411nShutterType Electronically-controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutterSpeed1/8000 – 30 s in steps of 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV, bulb, X250Flash sync sp

412nExposure bracketing 2–9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EVFlash bracketing 2–9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EVWhite balance brack

413nFlash control • TTL: i-TTL balanced fill-flash and standard i-TTL flash for digital SLR using 1,005-segment RGB sensor are available with built-in

18X❚❚ White BalancePress the WB button and rotate the command dials.Choose a white balance setting (pg. 127)Fine-tune white balance (pg. 132), set col

414nMonitorMonitor 3-in., 920,000-dot (VGA), low-temperature polysilicon TFT LCD with 170 ° viewing angle, 100% frame coverage, and brightness adjustm

415n• 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

416nA Supported Standards• DCF Version 2.0: The Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF) is a standard widely used in the digital camera industry to e

417nA Battery LifeThe number of shots that can be taken with fully-charged batteries varies with the condition of the battery, temperature, and how th

418nThe following can reduce battery life:• Using the monitor• Keeping the shutter-release button pressed halfway• Repeated autofocus operations• Taki

419IndexMenu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).SymbolsK (Single-point AF), 64, 65I(Dynamic-area AF), 64, 65, 269H(Au

Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).420Bracketing, 116, 297, 298exposure, 116, 297, 298flash, 116, 297, 298white

421[File naming], 260[File number sequence], 283[Filter effects], 338[Skylight], 338[Warm filter], 338[Fine tune optimal exposure], 277[Firmware versi

Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).422[Interval timer shooting], 189Interval timer shooting, 189ISO sensitivity,

423[Multi selector], 301[Multi selector center button], 300[Multiple exposure], 184Multiple exposure, 184[My Menu], 344[Add items], 344[Rank items], 3

19XAttaching the AN-D300 Camera StrapAttach the camera strap securely to the two eyelets on the camera body as shown below.The BM-8 Monitor CoverA cle

Menu items and options in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).424SS, 60[Save/load settings], 325Saving camera settings, 325[Self-timer dela

425[Daylight saving time], 37, 315[Time zone], 37, 315WT-4, 229, 365

En_04DIGITAL CAMERAEnUser's ManualNo reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical article

20XThe DK-23 Viewfinder Eyepiece CupBefore attaching the DK-5 viewfinder eyepiece cap and other viewfinder accessories (pp. 89, 366), remove the DK-23

21XQuick Start GuideFollow these steps for a quick start with the D300.1Charge the battery (pg. 30).2Insert the battery (pg. 32).3Attach a lens (pg. 3

22X6Check camera settings (pp. 44, 47).7Select single-servo autofocus (pp. 49, 62).Rotate the focus-mode selector to S (single-servo autofocus).8Focus

s23sTutorialThis section describes how to use the camera menus, how to ready the camera for use, and how to take your first pictures and play them bac

iiiIntroductionTutorialImage Recording OptionsFocusRelease ModeISO SensitivityExposureWhite BalanceImage EnhancementFlash PhotographyOther Shooting Op

24sCamera MenusMost shooting, playback, and setup options can be accessed from the camera menus. To view the menus, press the G button.G buttonChoose

25s❚❚ MenusThe following menus are available:Menu DescriptionD PlaybackAdjust playback settings and manage photos (pg. 246).C Shooting Adjust shooting

26sUsing Camera Menus❚❚ Menu ControlsThe multi selector and J button are used to navigate the menus.❚❚ Navigating the MenusFollow the steps below to n

27s3 Select a menu.Press 1 or 3 to select the desired menu.4 Position the cursor in the selected menu.Press 2 to position the cursor in the selected m

28s8 Select the highlighted item.Press J to select the highlighted item. To exit without making a selection, press the G button.Note the following poi

29sHelpIf a Q icon is displayed at the bottom left corner of the monitor, help can be displayed by pressing the L (Q) button. A description of the cur

30sFirst StepsCharge the BatteryThe D300 is powered by an EN-EL3e rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied).The EN-EL3e is not fully charged at shipment.

31s3 Insert the battery.Insert the battery into the charger. The CHARGE lamp will blink while the battery charges.4 Remove the battery when charging i

32sInsert the Battery1 Turn the camera off.Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing batteries.2 Open the battery-chamber cover.Open the

33sD The Battery and ChargerRead and follow the warnings and cautions on pages xviii–xx and 379–382 of this manual. To prevent short-circuits, replace

ivQ&A IndexFind what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index.❚❚ New Features❚❚ Camera SetupQuestion Key phrase See pageHow do I

34sAttach a LensCare should be taken to prevent dust from entering the camera when the lens is removed.1 Remove the rear lens cap and the camera body

35s3 Remove the lens cap.❚❚ Detaching the LensBe sure the camera is off when removing or exchanging lenses. To remove the lens, press and hold the len

36sBasic SetupThe language option in the setup menu is automatically highlighted the first time menus are displayed. Choose a language and set the tim

37s4 Select [World time].Select [World time] and press 2. 5 Set time zone.A time-zone selection dialog will be displayed. Press 4 or 2 to highlight th

38s8 Set date format.Press 1 or 3 to choose the order in which the year, month, and day will be displayed and press J.9 Exit to shooting mode.Press th

39sInsert a Memory CardThe camera stores photographs on CompactFlash and microdrive memory cards (available separately; pg. 371). The following sectio

40s4 Close the card slot cover.❚❚ Removing Memory Cards1 Turn the camera off.Confirm that the access lamp is off and turn the camera off.2 Remove the

41sFormat the Memory CardMemory cards must be formatted before first use. Format the card as described below.D Formatting Memory CardsFormatting memor

42s3 Press the Q buttons again.Press the Q (I and O) buttons together a second time to format the memory card. Do not remove the memory card or remove

43sAdjust Viewfinder FocusThe camera is equipped with diopter adjustment to accommodate individual differences in vision. Check that the display in th

v❚❚ Menus and DisplaysHow do I set the clock?World time 37, 315How do I set the clock for daylight savings time?How do I change time zones when I trav

44sBasic Photography and PlaybackTurn the Camera OnBefore taking photographs, turn the camera on and check the battery level and number of exposures r

45s3 Check the number of exposures remaining.The exposure-count displays in the control panel and viewfinder show the number of photographs that can b

46sA LCD IlluminatorsHolding the power switch in the D position activates the exposure meters and control panel backlights (LCD illuminators), allowin

47sAdjust Camera SettingsThis tutorial describes how to take photos at default settings.1 Check camera settings.Default settings are listed below.Opti

48s2 Choose exposure mode e.Press the I button and rotate the main command dial to select exposure mode e. The camera will automatically adjust shutte

49s5 Choose single-servo autofocus.Rotate the focus-mode selector until it clicks into place pointing to S (single-servo autofocus). At this setting,

50sReady the CameraWhen framing photographs in the viewfinder, hold the handgrip in your right hand and cradle the camera body or lens with your left.

51sFocus and Shoot1 Press the shutter-release button halfway to focus (pg. 52).At default settings, the camera will focus on the subject in the center

52s2 Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to shoot.Smoothly press the shutter-release-button the rest of the way down to take the

53sViewing Photographs1 Press the K button.A photograph will be displayed in the monitor.2 View additional pictures.Additional pictures can be display

vi❚❚ Taking PhotographsHow do I get more information about the battery?Battery info 321How do I keep the file number from being reset when I insert a

54sDeleting Unwanted PhotographsTo delete the photograph currently displayed in the monitor, press the O button. Note that photographs can not be reco

d55dImage Recording OptionsThis section describes how to choose image quality and size.Image Quality...

56dImage QualityThe D300 supports the following image quality options.A File SizeSee page 405 for information on the number of pictures that can be re

57dImage quality is set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the control panel.A N

58d❚❚ The JPEG Compression MenuThe [JPEG compression] item in the shooting menu offers the following options for JPEG images:❚❚ The NEF (RAW) Recordin

59d❚❚ The NEF (RAW) Recording Menu: NEF (RAW) Bit DepthThe [NEF (RAW) recording] > [NEF (RAW) bit depth] item in the shooting menu offers the follo

60dImage SizeImage size is measured in pixels. Choose from the following options:Image size can be set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the su

N61NFocus – Controlling How the Camera FocusesThis section describes the options that control how your camera focuses.Focus Mode ...

62NFocus ModeFocus mode is controlled by the focus-mode selector on the front of the camera. There are two autofocus (AF) modes, in which the camera f

63NA The B ButtonFor the purpose of focusing the camera, pressing the B button has the same effect as pressing the shutter-release button halfway.A Pr

vii❚❚ Viewing PhotographsCan I set both shutter speed and aperture manually?Exposure mode h (manual)109Can I make photos brighter or darker? Exposure

64NAF-Area ModeAF-area mode determines how the focus point is selected in autofocus mode. To select the AF-area mode, rotate the AF-area mode selector

65NA AF-Area ModeAF-area mode is shown in the control panel.A Manual FocusSingle-point AF is automatically selected when manual focus is used.A See Al

66NFocus Point SelectionThe D300 offers a choice of 51 focus points that together cover a wide area of the frame. The focus point can be selected manu

67NA See AlsoFor information on choosing when the focus point is illuminated, see Custom Setting a6 ([AF point illumination], pg. 271). For informatio

68NFocus LockFocus lock can be used to change the composition after focusing, making it possible to focus on a subject that will not be in a focus poi

69NContinuous-servo AFPress the AE-L/AF-L button to lock both focus and exposure (an AE-L icon appears in the viewfinder, see page 112). Focus and exp

70NGetting Good Results with AutofocusAutofocus does not perform well under the conditions listed below. The shutter release may be disabled if the ca

71NManual FocusManual focus is available for lenses that do not support autofocus (non-AF Nikkor lenses) or when the autofocus does not produce the de

72NThe Electronic RangefinderIf the lens has a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, the viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm whether the

k73kRelease Mode– Single Frame, Continuous, Live View, Self-Timer, or Mirror UpRelease mode determines how the camera takes photographs: one at a time