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Nikon Coolpix P90 User Manual

Nikon Coolpix P90
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Nikon
DIGITAL
CAMERA
COOLPIX
P90
User's
Manual

Table of Contents

Other manuals for Nikon Coolpix P90

Questions and Answers:

Nikon Coolpix P90 Specifications

General IconGeneral
Megapixel12.1 MP
Sensor typeCCD
Image sensor size1/2.33 \
Maximum image resolution4000 x 3000 pixels
Optical zoom24 x
Focal length range4.6 - 110.4 mm
InterfaceUSB 2.0
Digital SLRNo
Built-in flashYes
Effective sensor resolution12.7 pixels
Focal length (35mm film equivalent)26 - 624 mm
Focus adjustmentAuto
Closest focusing distance0.01 m
ISO sensitivity64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400
Light exposure modesaperture priority AE, auto, manual, shutter priority AE
Internal memory47 MB
Compatible memory cardssd
Maximum video resolution640 x 480 pixels
Display diagonal3 \
Display resolution (numeric)230000 pixels
USB version2.0
Product colorBlack
Flash modesauto, Flash off
Weight and Dimensions IconWeight and Dimensions
Depth99 mm
Width114 mm
Height83 mm
Weight460 g

Summary

For Your Safety

WARNINGS

General safety warnings and precautions to prevent damage or injury when using the device.

Notices

Notice for U.S. Customers

FCC interference statement and California Proposition 65 warning.

Notices for Canada and Europe

Compliance information for Canadian digital apparatus and European WEEE directives.

Introduction

About This Manual

Explains manual purpose, symbols, notations, and screen sample conventions.

Information and Precautions

Details on Nikon's learning commitment, accessory use, and pre-shooting checks.

Prohibition of Copying and Data Disposal

Legal notices on copyright, prohibited copying, and safe disposal of data storage devices.

Parts of the Camera

The Camera Body

Identifies and describes the main external components and controls of the camera body.

Changing the Monitor Angle

Instructions on adjusting the camera's monitor for optimal viewing angles.

Flash Operation and Strap/Cap Attachment

Procedures for raising/lowering the built-in flash and attaching the camera strap and lens cap.

The Monitor Display Indicators

Explanation of indicators and icons shown on the camera's monitor during shooting.

Basic Operations

The Mode Dial

Describes the function of each shooting mode selectable via the camera's mode dial.

The Command Dial

How to use the command dial for menu navigation and function selection.

The Multi Selector Control

Detailed usage of the multi selector for menu navigation and option selection.

Using the MENU Button and Tabs

Steps to access the menu, navigate between tabs, and select options.

Help Displays and Viewfinder/Monitor Switching

How to access help information and switch between the monitor and electronic viewfinder.

The DISP Button for Information Display

Controls for cycling through different information displays on the camera's screen.

First Steps

Charging the Battery

Step-by-step guide for charging the camera's rechargeable battery using the supplied charger.

Battery and Charger Handling Precautions

Important notes and warnings for safe battery and charger usage.

Inserting the Battery Correctly

Procedure for inserting the battery, ensuring correct orientation and secure placement.

Battery Removal and Camera Power Management

Steps for removing the battery and managing camera power, including auto-off functions.

Language, Date, and Time Setup

Guide to selecting the camera's display language and setting the date and time.

Editing Date and Time Settings

Detailed steps for modifying date, time, and the order of date elements displayed.

Memory Card Insertion and Removal

Instructions for inserting and removing memory cards correctly.

Memory Card Formatting and Protection

Procedures for formatting memory cards and using the write-protect switch.

Basic Photography and Playback: Auto Mode

Step 1: Camera Power On and Auto Mode Selection

Guide to powering on the camera and selecting the Auto mode for basic shooting.

Indicators Displayed in Auto Mode

Explanation of indicators and icons visible on the monitor in Auto mode.

Step 2: Framing the Picture

Instructions on positioning the camera and framing the subject for a shot.

Using the Zoom Control

Details on operating the zoom control for optical and digital zoom magnification.

Step 3: Focus and Shoot

Steps for focusing on the subject and capturing the image by pressing the shutter button.

Autofocus Operation and Focus Lock

Explanation of autofocus behavior, focus area indicators, and using focus lock.

Step 4: Viewing and Deleting Pictures

Procedures for reviewing captured images and removing unwanted ones.

Playback Mode Options and Functions

Overview of playback features like zoom, thumbnail display, and switching modes.

Using the Built-in Flash

Guidance on when and how to use the camera's built-in flash for various shooting conditions.

Setting the Flash Mode

Steps to select and configure the desired flash mode from the camera's menu options.

Flash Status and Red-eye Reduction

Information on flash indicators, settings, and the advanced red-eye reduction feature.

Taking Pictures with the Self-Timer

Instructions for using the self-timer for delayed shooting and preventing camera shake.

Focus Modes Overview

Explanation of available focus modes and their application in different shooting scenarios.

Setting the Focus Mode

Steps to select and adjust the camera's focus mode, including AF and manual options.

Using Manual Focus

Detailed guide on manually adjusting focus using the camera's controls for precise sharpness.

Exposure Compensation Adjustments

How to adjust exposure compensation to control the brightness of the final image.

SCENE/~~ Shooting Suited for the Scenes

Setting the Scene Mode

Instructions for selecting scene modes that automatically optimize camera settings for specific photographic situations.

Scene Mode Features and Icons

Explanation of features and icons used in various scene modes like Portrait and Landscape.

Portrait and Night Portrait Scene Modes

Details on using Portrait and Night Portrait modes for capturing people in different lighting.

Beach/Snow, Sunset, and Dusk/Dawn Modes

Guidance on using scene modes optimized for specific lighting conditions and environments.

Night Landscape and Close-up Scene Modes

Instructions for using Night Landscape and Close-up modes for specific photographic subjects.

Food and Museum Scene Modes

Guidance on using Food mode for close-ups and Museum mode for indoor settings.

Fireworks, Copy, and Backlight Scene Modes

Explains scene modes for fireworks, copying text, and shooting backlit subjects.

Panorama Assist Mode Usage

Instructions for using Panorama Assist mode to capture images for panoramic photos.

Taking Pictures in Food Mode

Specific steps and settings for effectively using the Food scene mode.

Food Mode Notes and White Balance

Important notes on Food mode, including flash and white balance adjustments.

Taking Pictures for a Panorama

Step-by-step guide for capturing images to create a panoramic photograph.

Panorama Assist Functionality and Software

Details on Panorama Assist operation, exposure lock, and using Panorama Maker software.

Scene Auto Selector Mode Operation

How the camera automatically selects the optimal scene mode based on the subject.

Scene Auto Selector Mode Notes

Important considerations and restrictions for using the Scene Auto Selector mode.

Automatic Shooting of Smiling Faces

How the camera detects and shoots smiling faces using face priority.

Smile Timer and Blink Proof Functionality

Explanations and notes related to using the Smile Timer and Blink Proof features.

Sport Continuous Mode Operation

Details on using Sport Continuous mode for high-speed shooting of moving subjects.

Sport Continuous Shooting Considerations

Important points for Sport Continuous mode, including image quality and flash usage.

Sport Continuous Menu Options

Description of settings within the Sport Continuous menu, like high-speed modes.

Pre-shooting Cache Functionality

Explanation of the pre-shooting cache feature for capturing moments before the shutter is fully pressed.

Shoot Pictures Using P, S, A, M, U 1 and U 2

P, S, A, M Modes Overview

Introduction to the four primary exposure modes and their general usage.

Shutter Speed and Aperture Effects

How shutter speed and aperture influence exposure, motion blur, and depth of field.

P (Programmed Auto) Mode Usage

Guide to using the Programmed Auto mode, including flexible program adjustments.

S (Shutter-Priority Auto) Mode Usage

Instructions for controlling shutter speed in S mode to capture motion effectively.

A (Aperture-Priority Auto) Mode Usage

Guidance on using Aperture-Priority Auto mode to control depth of field and background blur.

M (Manual) Mode Operation

Instructions for full manual control of shutter speed and aperture for precise exposure.

Using U 1, U 2 (User Setting Mode)

How to save and recall custom shooting settings using the U1 and U2 modes.

Saving Custom Settings to U 1 or U 2

Step-by-step process for saving current camera settings to user modes.

Resetting Saved Settings

Procedure to revert saved user settings back to default values.

Active D-Lighting Feature

Explanation of the Active D-Lighting feature for preserving highlight and shadow detail.

More to Playback

Viewing Multiple Pictures: Thumbnail Playback

How to display multiple images in thumbnail or calendar view for browsing.

Thumbnail Display Icons

Explanation of icons on thumbnails, including print set, protect, and movie frames.

Playback Zoom and Navigation Controls

Instructions for zooming, moving the display, and navigating playback.

Editing Pictures Overview

Overview of in-camera editing functions: retouch, D-Lighting, crop, etc.

Using Quick Retouch

Guide to applying quick retouch for enhanced contrast and saturation.

D-Lighting for Brightness and Contrast

How to use D-Lighting to improve brightness and contrast in images.

Creating a Cropped Copy (Crop)

Steps to crop a picture to a specific portion and save it as a new file.

Resizing Pictures: Small Picture

Process for creating smaller copies of pictures for web or email usage.

Adding Black Border to Pictures

Instructions for adding a black border frame to pictures.

Voice Memos: Recording and Playback

Steps for recording, playing, and deleting voice memos attached to pictures.

Movies: Recording Movies

Guide to shooting movies with sound, including start/stop and settings.

The Movie Menu and Options

Explanation of movie menu options like size, frame rate, and format.

Maximum Movie Length and Autofocus Modes

Information on movie length limits and autofocus modes for video recording.

Electronic VR and Time-Lapse Movies

Details on enabling Electronic VR for stabilization and setting up Time-Lapse movies.

Time-Lapse Movie Settings

How to choose intervals for Time-Lapse movies and power/recording notes.

Movie Playback and Deleting Movie Files

Procedures for playing movies, controlling playback, and deleting movie files.

Making Voice Recordings

Steps for recording voice memos using the camera's microphone.

Playing Voice Recordings

How to select and play recorded voice memos.

Voice Recording Playback Controls

Navigation and management of voice recording playback, including deleting sound files.

Copying Voice Recordings

Instructions for copying voice recordings between storage locations.

Handling Memory with No Images

Message displayed when no images are found and how to proceed with copying.

Connecting to Televisions, Computers and Printers

Connecting to a TV

Guide on connecting the camera to a TV for playback using an audio/video cable.

Connecting to a Computer

Instructions for connecting the camera to a computer to transfer images and software.

Transferring Pictures to a Computer

Step-by-step process for transferring photos using Nikon Transfer software.

Using Card Readers and Computer Software

Alternative methods for file transfer using card readers or opening files on a computer.

Connecting to a Printer

Instructions for connecting the camera directly to a PictBridge printer.

Connecting Camera and Printer

Steps for establishing a direct USB connection between the camera and printer.

Printing Pictures One at a Time

Guide to selecting individual pictures and printing them.

Printing Multiple Pictures

Instructions for selecting paper size and printing multiple photos.

Creating a DPOF Print Order: Print Set

How to select images and specify print quantities for DPOF printing.

MENU Shooting, Playback and Setup Menus

Shooting Options: The Shooting Menu

Overview of settings available in the Shooting Menu for various shooting modes.

Displaying the Shooting Menu

Steps to access and navigate the Shooting Menu and its tabs.

Image Quality Settings

Explanation of image quality options and their impact on file size and print quality.

Image Size Options

Details on available image resolutions and their suitability for different uses.

Number of Exposures Remaining Table

Table showing approximate picture capacity based on image size and quality.

Optimize Image Settings

Guide to adjusting image optimization settings like contrast and sharpening.

Customizing Image Enhancement

Instructions for customizing contrast, sharpening, and saturation settings.

Shooting in Black-and-White Mode

How to shoot in black-and-white, including standard and custom options.

White Balance Settings

Explanation of white balance settings to match different lighting conditions.

Preset Manual White Balance

Procedure for setting custom white balance using a reference object.

ISO Sensitivity Settings

Guide to adjusting ISO sensitivity and its effect on image noise.

Metering Modes Explanation

Explanation of different metering modes for measuring scene exposure.

Continuous Shooting Modes

Details on Continuous, BSS, Multi-shot 16, and Interval Timer Shooting modes.

Continuous Shooting Mode Notes

Important considerations for continuous shooting modes, including potential image artifacts.

Auto Bracketing Function

How to use Auto Bracketing for capturing multiple exposures for better control.

AF Area Mode Settings

Options for determining focus points, including Face Priority, Auto, and Manual.

Center Focus Area and Face Priority

Explanation of center focus and Face Priority functionality.

Face Priority Shooting Notes

Important notes regarding Face Priority detection limitations and alternative autofocus methods.

Autofocus Modes for Movies

Description of autofocus modes for movies, like Single AF and Full-time AF.

Flash Exposure Compensation

How to adjust flash output to balance subject and background brightness.

Noise Reduction and Distortion Control

Settings for reducing noise at slow shutter speeds and correcting lens distortion.

Playback Options: The Playback Menu

Slide Show Functionality

How to set up and view an automated slide show of stored pictures.

Slide Show Operation and Notes

Controls for managing slide show playback and important usage notes.

Deleting Pictures

Procedures for reviewing captured images and removing unwanted ones.

Protecting Pictures from Deletion

How to protect selected pictures from accidental deletion and formatting.

Rotate and Hide Image Options

Instructions for rotating picture orientation and hiding images from playback.

Copying Pictures Between Storage

Steps for copying pictures between internal memory and a memory card.

Handling Memory with No Images

Message displayed when no images are found and how to proceed with copying.

Basic Camera Setup: The Setup Menu

Displaying the Setup Menu

How to access and navigate the camera's setup menu interface.

Welcome Screen Settings

Options for customizing the welcome screen displayed upon camera power-on.

Date and Time Settings

Setting the camera's clock, time zones, and daylight saving time.

Date Imprint Functionality

How to imprint date and time on pictures and printer compatibility notes.

Vibration Reduction Settings

Adjusting vibration reduction to minimize blur from camera shake.

Motion Detection Settings

Enabling motion detection to reduce effects of camera shake and subject movement.

AF Assist Illumination Control

How to enable or disable the AF-assist light for focusing in low light.

Digital Zoom Functionality

Options to enable, disable, or crop digital zoom to maintain image quality.

Sound Settings and Auto Off Timer

Configuring button sounds, shutter sounds, and the auto power-off timer.

Canceling Standby Mode

How to reactivate the camera from standby mode.

Formatting Memory and Memory Cards

Instructions for formatting internal memory or memory cards to erase all data.

Language Selection for Menus

Choosing the display language for camera menus and messages.

Video Mode Settings

Adjusting video output settings for TV connection, selecting NTSC or PAL.

Blink Warning Feature

Enabling or disabling the warning for subjects with closed eyes during shooting.

Reset All Camera Settings

Procedure to restore all camera settings to their default factory values.

Reset File Numbering Function

How to reset file numbering and create new folders for image organization.

Firmware Version Check

How to view the current camera firmware version.

Technical Notes

Optional Accessories

List of recommended accessories for the Nikon COOLPIX P90 camera.

Approved Memory Cards

List of tested and approved Secure Digital (SD) memory card brands and capacities.

File and Folder Naming Conventions

Explanation of file naming, identifiers, and folder structures used by the camera.

Caring for the Camera

General precautions for using and storing the camera to ensure longevity and performance.

Camera Cleaning Guide

Instructions on how to safely clean the camera's lens, monitor, and body.

Camera Storage Guidelines

Recommendations for storing the camera properly to prevent damage from environmental factors.

Monitor Display Notes

Information about monitor characteristics, potential issues, and service contact.

Notes on Image Smear Phenomenon

Explanation of image smear and recommendations to avoid it.

Error Messages and Solutions

Comprehensive list of error messages and their corresponding solutions for troubleshooting.

Troubleshooting Shooting Issues

Solutions for common shooting problems like focus errors, blurred images, and flash issues.

Troubleshooting Display, Settings, and Power Issues

Solutions for problems related to the camera display, settings, and power supply.

Troubleshooting Date Imprint and Reset Issues

Solutions for date imprint errors, camera settings reset, and monitor problems.

Troubleshooting Shooting Problems (Continued)

Further solutions for shooting issues like no picture, focus errors, and flash problems.

Troubleshooting Playback and Transfer Issues

Solutions for playback errors, transfer problems, and printer connectivity.

Quick Start Guide

Take the Camera Out of the Box

Steps for unboxing the camera and verifying all included accessories.

Parts of the Camera Overview

Detailed diagram identifying all external camera buttons, controls, and features.

Step 1: Charging the Battery

Initial setup step: charging the camera's rechargeable battery.

Step 2: Attach Camera Strap and Lens Cap

Instructions for attaching the camera strap and lens cap for safe handling.

Step 3: Insert Battery and Memory Card

Guide for correctly inserting the battery and memory card into the camera.

Step 4: Turning the Camera On

Procedure for powering on the camera and checking for initial errors.

Step 5: Set Language and Camera Clock

Steps for selecting language and setting the camera's date and time.

Shooting and Playback

Step 1: Check Monitor Indicators

How to check essential camera indicators like battery level and exposure count on the monitor.

Built-in Flash and Display Button Controls

Instructions on using the built-in flash and the monitor/display buttons.

Step 3: Focus and Shoot

Steps for focusing on the subject and taking a picture.

Step 4: View and Delete Pictures

Procedures for reviewing captured images and deleting unwanted ones.

Installing Nikon Transfer

Nikon Transfer System Requirements

Minimum system requirements for installing Nikon Transfer software.

Installing Nikon Transfer Software

Step-by-step guide for installing Nikon Transfer from the CD-ROM.

Installing Optional Software (Panorama Maker)

Instructions for installing additional software like Panorama Maker from the CD.

Transferring Pictures to a Computer

Power Source and Connection

Recommendations for power source and connecting the camera via USB cable.

Connecting Camera and Initiating Transfer

Steps for connecting the camera and starting the picture transfer process.

Disconnect the camera

Procedure for disconnecting the camera after the transfer process is complete.

Other Features of the COOLPIX P90

P/S/A/M Exposure Modes

Overview of manual exposure modes allowing control over shutter speed and aperture.

U 1/ U 2 User Setting Mode

How to save and recall custom shooting settings using the U1 and U2 modes.

SCENE Mode and Scene Auto Selector

Choosing scene modes and letting the camera automatically select the best mode.

Sport Continuous Shooting

Pictures taken continuously at high speeds for capturing action.

PictBridge Printing

Printing pictures directly from the camera to a PictBridge-compatible printer.

Notes on Continuous H (16:9) and Continuous H

Information on potential image artifacts ("smear") when shooting bright subjects.

NIKON DIGITAL IMAGING LIMITED WARRANTY

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