Nikon Coolpix S5 Digital Camera User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Nikon Coolpix S5 digital camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the camera to ensure optimal performance and to prevent damage. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.

2. Product Overview

The Nikon Coolpix S5 is a compact 6-megapixel digital camera featuring a 3x optical zoom lens and a 2.5-inch LCD monitor. Its design emphasizes ease of use and portability.

2.1 Camera Components

3. Setup

3.1 Installing the Battery

The camera uses a rechargeable EN-EL8 Li-ion Battery. Open the battery chamber cover, insert the battery with the correct orientation, and close the cover securely.

3.2 Charging the Battery

Place the camera into the supplied Cool-Station MV-14. Connect the AC adapter to the Cool-Station and a power outlet. The charging indicator will show the charging status. A full charge allows for approximately 210 shots.

3.3 Inserting a Memory Card

The Coolpix S5 is compatible with SD memory cards. Open the memory card slot cover, insert the SD card until it clicks into place, and then close the cover. The camera also has approximately 21 MB of internal memory.

3.4 Initial Settings

Upon first power-on or after the battery has been removed for an extended period, you may need to set the language, date, and time. Follow the on-screen prompts using the rotary multi-selector and OK button.

4. Basic Operation

4.1 Powering On/Off

Press the power button to turn the camera on or off. The camera has a swift startup time of approximately 0.8 seconds.

4.2 Taking Still Photos

1. Turn on the camera.
2. Frame your shot using the 2.5-inch LCD monitor.
3. Press the shutter button halfway down to focus.
4. Press the shutter button fully to capture the image.

4.3 Recording Movies

The camera supports three movie modes with sound, capturing action at up to 30 frames per second. Select the movie mode from the menu, then press the shutter button to start and stop recording.

4.4 Using the Rotary Multi-Selector

The rotary multi-selector on the back of the camera allows for fast circular scrolling through menus and images. An on-screen icon tracks your scrolling for easy feature selection.

5. Advanced Features

5.1 Pictmotion

The Pictmotion function allows you to create in-camera shows. Select favorite images and movie files, choose a style, and add music from pre-installed files or your own (via PictureProject for Windows). The camera automatically analyzes these elements to produce an entertaining show with pace and transitions.

5.2 One-Touch Portrait Functions

A dedicated one-touch portrait button provides direct access to three in-camera image improvement features:

• Face-priority AF: Automatically detects and focuses on human faces in the frame for sharp portraits.
• In-Camera Red-Eye Fix: Detects and corrects the red-eye effect in flash photography automatically.
• D-Lighting: (Available in playback mode) Improves underexposed images or those with strong backlighting by adding light and detail to dark areas while preserving well-exposed parts.

5.3 Scene Modes

The camera offers 15 Scene modes, with four featuring Scene assist, to optimize settings for various shooting situations. Select the appropriate mode, compose your shot, and the camera will automatically apply the best settings for clear focus and optimal exposure.

5.4 Best Shot Selector (BSS)

BSS identifies and saves the sharpest image automatically from a sequence of ten sequential shots.

5.5 Exposure BSS

Exposure BSS automatically selects and saves the shot that most closely matches user-selected criteria from five sequential shots.

5.6 Time-Lapse Movie Shooting

Capture dramatic time-lapse movies of slow-moving actions, such as a flower blooming or clouds moving across the sky.

6. Playback and Management

6.1 Viewing Images and Videos

Use the playback button to review your captured photos and videos on the 2.5-inch LCD monitor. The wide 170-degree viewing angle allows for easy sharing.

6.2 Calendar Function

The Calendar function automatically sorts your images by the date they were taken, speeding up your search for specific photos.

6.3 Auto Image Rotation

Images taken with the camera held vertically are automatically rotated for correct display during in-camera playback.

7. Connectivity

7.1 USB Connectivity

Connect the camera to a computer using a USB cable for easy transfer of images and videos. The Cool-Station MV-14 also provides USB connectivity.

7.2 TV Display

The camera can be connected to a television for viewing photos and videos on a larger screen.

7.3 Software and Utilities

The camera comes bundled with Nikon's PictureProject software for organizing, editing, and sharing images. A Wireless Camera Setup Utility is also included to configure the camera for wireless operation.

8. Maintenance

8.1 Cleaning the Camera

• Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camera body.
• For the lens and LCD, use a lens brush or a soft, lint-free cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals.

8.2 Battery Care

• Store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures.
• Recharge the battery regularly, even if not fully depleted, to maintain its lifespan.

8.3 Storage

When storing the camera for extended periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment, preferably in a camera bag or case.

9. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Nikon Coolpix S5, consider the following general troubleshooting steps:

• Camera does not power on: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
• Cannot take pictures: Check if the memory card is inserted correctly and has sufficient free space. The battery might also be low.
• Images are blurry: Ensure the lens is clean. Check lighting conditions and consider using a Scene mode or flash.
• Flash does not fire: Check flash mode settings. Ensure the battery has enough power.

For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the comprehensive help section within the camera's menu or contact Nikon support.

10. Specifications

11. Warranty and Support

For information regarding your product's warranty, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Nikon website. For technical assistance, customer service, or to inquire about repairs, please contact Nikon customer support directly.