Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera, equipped with the 18-55mm ED AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens. Please read this manual thoroughly before using your camera to ensure optimal performance and to familiarize yourself with its features.

1.1 What's in the Box

Upon opening your Nikon D80 kit, please verify that all the following items are included:

• Nikon D80 Camera Body
• AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Lens
• Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery (EN-EL3e)
• Quick Charger (MH-18a)
• AV Cable (EG-D2)
• USB Cable (UC-E4)
• Camera Strap
• Body Cap
• Eyepiece Cap
• Rubber Eyecup
• LCD Monitor Cover
• Accessory Shoe Cover
• PictureProject Software CD-ROM

Figure 1: Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera with the 18-55mm ED AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens.

2. Setup

2.1 Attaching the Lens

1. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the lens.
2. Align the mounting mark on the lens with the mounting mark on the camera body.
3. Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place.

2.2 Inserting the Battery

The Nikon D80 uses an EN-EL3e rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Ensure the battery is charged before first use.

1. Open the battery chamber cover located at the bottom of the camera.
2. Insert the EN-EL3e battery with the contacts facing the correct direction, as indicated inside the chamber.
3. Close the battery chamber cover securely.

The EN-EL3e battery provides sufficient power for approximately 2,700 images per charge and features a real-time fuel gauge system.

2.3 Inserting a Memory Card

The D80 is compatible with SD memory cards.

1. Open the memory card slot cover on the side of the camera.
2. Insert the SD card with the label facing the rear of the camera until it clicks into place.
3. Close the memory card slot cover securely.

3. Basic Operation

3.1 Powering On/Off

To power on the camera, rotate the power switch located around the shutter release button to the "ON" position. To power off, rotate it to "OFF". The camera starts up in approximately 0.18 seconds.

3.2 Taking a Picture

1. Look through the viewfinder or use the LCD monitor to compose your shot.
2. Press the shutter release button halfway down to activate autofocus and exposure metering.
3. Press the shutter release button fully to take the picture.

3.3 Digital Vari-Program Modes

The D80 offers 7 Digital Vari-Programs for simplified creative photography. Rotate the mode dial to select:

• Auto: General purpose shooting.
• Portrait: Optimizes for portraits with soft backgrounds.
• Landscape: Enhances colors and sharpness for scenery.
• Close Up: Ideal for macro photography.
• Sports: Fast shutter speeds to freeze action.
• Night Landscape: For capturing night scenes.
• Night Portrait: Balances flash and ambient light for night portraits.

4. Advanced Features

4.1 Autofocus System

The D80 features an advanced 11-area AF system utilizing the Multi-CAM 1000 AF Sensor Module. This system ensures fast and precise focus lock.

• 11 Focus Areas: Each area can be used individually.
• Wide-Frame Operation: The center sensor can be switched for broader coverage.
• Auto-Area AF Mode: The camera automatically detects the primary subject across all 11 focus areas and activates only those areas.

4.2 Exposure Control

The D80 incorporates Nikon's 3D-Color Matrix Metering II for dependable exposure. Manual control options include:

• ISO Sensitivity: Manually adjustable from ISO 100 to 1600 in 1/3-EV increments, with boosted settings of HI-0.3, HI-0.7, or HI-1. Auto ISO adjustment is also available.
• Shutter Speeds: Ranging from 30 seconds to 1/4,000 seconds, plus Bulb and Time options. Flash synchronization up to 1/200 seconds.
• Exposure Modes:
  • P (Programmed Auto)
  • S (Shutter-Priority Auto)
  • A (Aperture-Priority Auto)
  • M (Manual)

4.3 White Balance

Achieve natural coloration with various white balance settings:

• Auto White Balance (AWB): Automatically adjusts to the light source.
• Preset Manual Settings: Incandescent, Fluorescent, Direct Sunlight, Flash, Cloudy, and Shade, with fine-tuning options.
• Preset Option: Use a gray or white object as a reference.

4.4 Image Optimization

Tailor image results with Nikon's advanced color reproduction system and optimization options:

• Color Modes:
  • Mode Ia (sRGB): Natural-looking skin tones.
  • Mode II (Adobe RGB): Wider color range for processing.
  • Mode IIIa (sRGB): Vivid landscape and floral colors.
• Optimization Options: Normal, Softer, Vivid, More vivid, Portrait, Custom, or Black-and-white, controlling sharpening, tone compensation, color mode, saturation, and hue.

4.5 High-Speed Continuous Shooting

Capture fast-moving subjects with continuous shooting at 3 frames per second. The D80 can capture up to 100 JPEG (FINE M-size or smaller) or 6 RAW (NEF) images in a single burst.

4.6 Built-in Flash with i-TTL Control

The powerful built-in flash offers precise i-TTL flash control for balanced illumination. Features include:

• Repeating Flash: For stroboscopic effects.
• Modeling Flash: Allows visual check of shadows and reflections before shooting.
• Advanced Wireless Lighting System: The built-in flash can function as a remote commander for wireless SB-800 or SB-600 Speedlights.

4.7 Multiple Exposure

This feature allows you to combine up to 3 consecutive exposures into a single image directly within the camera, mimicking traditional film techniques.

5. Image Playback and Editing

5.1 LCD Monitor and Playback

The D80 features a large 2.5-inch, 230,000-dot high-resolution LCD monitor with an ultra-wide 170° viewing angle. Playback options include:

• Single frame display.
• 4 or 9-image thumbnail display.
• Zoom up to 25 times magnification for sharpness assessment.
• RGB histogram display for exposure evaluation.
• Highlight point display.

The menu interface is designed for easy navigation, with customizable "My Menu" settings.

5.2 In-Camera Image Editing

The Retouch menu offers several in-camera editing functions:

• D-Lighting: Automatically enhances detail and balances exposure.
• Red-eye Correction: Automatically detects and corrects red-eye caused by flash.
• Trimming: Crop images to create smaller files for sharing or specific uses.

5.3 Built-in Slideshow Functions

View your photos as a slideshow on the camera's LCD monitor or on a television via the supplied AV cable. Options include Standard or Pictmotion, which offers transitions and background music.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning the Camera and Lens

• Use a blower brush to remove dust from the lens and camera body.
• For stubborn smudges on the lens, use a lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth.
• Wipe the camera body with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals.

6.2 Battery Care

• Always use the supplied MH-18a Quick Charger for the EN-EL3e battery.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures.

6.3 Storage

When storing the camera for extended periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area, preferably in a camera bag or case to protect it from dust and moisture.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Nikon D80. For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the full user manual or Nikon's support website.

• Camera does not power on: Ensure the battery is charged and correctly inserted. Check the power switch position.
• Cannot take pictures: Verify that a memory card is inserted and has sufficient space. Check the focus mode and ensure the lens is properly attached.
• Images are blurry: Check focus settings (autofocus or manual focus). Ensure shutter speed is appropriate for the lighting conditions and subject movement. Consider using a tripod in low light.
• Flash does not fire: Check flash mode settings. Ensure the flash is raised if using the built-in flash.
• "Err" message displayed: Turn the camera off and on again. If the error persists, consult a Nikon service center.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

This Nikon D80 camera kit is covered by a 90-day parts and labor warranty. For warranty claims or technical support, please contact Nikon customer service or visit their official website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation.

For additional support and resources, please visit the official Nikon website: www.nikonusa.com