Nikon D60 DSLR Camera User Manual

1. Introduction

The Nikon D60 is a 10.2-megapixel DX-format digital SLR camera designed for ease of use, offering fast response, creative versatility, and breathtaking image quality. It comes equipped with an AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G Vibration Reduction lens, making it suitable for a wide range of photographic situations. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Nikon D60 camera.

2. Key Features

• 10.2-Megapixel DX-Format Sensor: Delivers high-resolution images with rich color and detail.
• Integrated Dust Reduction System: Features Airflow Control and Imaging Sensor Cleaning to minimize dust on the sensor.
• Active D-Lighting: Automatically corrects exposure issues in high-contrast scenes, preserving details in highlights and shadows.
• 2.5-inch LCD Monitor: Provides clear information display with customizable formats and automatic orientation detection.
• Intuitive Menu Navigation: Simple and user-friendly menu system with an on-board help function (O button) and assist images.
• Fast Performance: 0.19-second startup time, minimal shooting lag, and continuous shooting at up to 3 frames per second.
• In-Camera Retouch Menus: Offers various post-processing options including Quick Retouch, Stop-motion Movie creation, NEF (RAW) processing, and Filter Effects without needing a computer.
• i-TTL Built-in Flash: Provides balanced flash illumination automatically for various lighting conditions.

3. Setup

3.1. Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Carefully unpack all components and verify that all supplied accessories are present. Inspect the camera body and lens for any visible damage.

3.2. Attaching the Lens

Align the white mounting mark on the lens with the white mounting mark on the camera body. Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place. Ensure the lens is securely attached before use.

Figure 3.2: Nikon D60 with 18-55mm VR lens attached.

3.3. Inserting the Battery and Memory Card

Open the battery chamber cover on the bottom of the camera and insert the supplied EN-EL9 Li-ion battery, ensuring correct orientation. Close the cover. Open the memory card slot cover and insert an SD/SDHC memory card until it clicks into place. Close the cover.

Figure 3.3: Nikon D60 camera body with pop-up flash.

3.4. Charging the Battery

Connect the MH-23 Quick Charger to a power outlet and insert the EN-EL9 battery. The charging lamp will indicate charging status. Charge the battery fully before first use.

4. Operating the Camera

4.1. Power On/Off

To turn the camera on or off, rotate the power switch located around the shutter-release button.

4.2. Selecting a Shooting Mode

The D60 offers various shooting modes accessible via the mode dial. These include:

• Auto: Fully automatic mode for simple point-and-shoot operation.
• Digital Vari-program: Scene modes like Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-up, Night portrait, and Auto (flash off).
• P (Programmed Auto): Camera sets aperture and shutter speed for optimal exposure.
• S (Shutter-priority Auto): You set shutter speed, camera sets aperture.
• A (Aperture-priority Auto): You set aperture, camera sets shutter speed.
• M (Manual): You control both aperture and shutter speed.

4.3. Focusing

The D60 features a 3-point autofocus system. For automatic focusing, ensure your lens is an AF-S or AF-I type. Half-press the shutter-release button to activate autofocus. An electronic rangefinder is available for manual focusing with non-AF-S/AF-I lenses.

4.4. Using the Built-in Flash

The D60's built-in flash utilizes Nikon's i-TTL technology for accurate and balanced illumination. In Auto mode, the flash will pop up and fire automatically when needed. You can also manually raise the flash and select various flash modes (e.g., Red-Eye Reduction, Slow Sync) through the camera menu.

4.5. LCD Monitor and Information Display

The 2.5-inch LCD monitor displays essential camera information. The Eye Sensor automatically turns off the LCD display when you look through the viewfinder. You can customize the display format (Graphic, Classic, Wallpaper) and color variations to suit your preference. The display automatically rotates when the camera is held vertically.

4.6. In-Camera Retouch Menus

After taking a picture, you can apply various effects and adjustments directly in the camera using the Retouch Menu. This creates a duplicate image, leaving the original intact.

• Quick Retouch: Optimizes contrast and saturation for better-looking pictures.
• Stop-motion Movie: Create short animations from a series of consecutive pictures.
• NEF (RAW) Processing: Adjust image quality, size, white balance, or exposure compensation of RAW files after shooting.
• Filter Effects: Experiment with color and light using Red/Green/Blue Intensifier, Cross Screen, Color Balance, Skylight, and Warm Filters.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Integrated Dust Reduction System

The D60 features an Airflow Control System to prevent dust from settling on the image sensor and an Imaging Sensor Cleaning function that vibrates the optical low-pass filter to dislodge dust. This function activates automatically when the camera is turned on or off, and can also be manually activated.

5.2. Cleaning the Camera and Lens

Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body. For the lens, use a lens brush to remove loose dust, followed by a lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. Avoid touching the lens elements directly with your fingers.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Nikon D60, first refer to the in-camera help system by pressing the O button when a specific feature or function is highlighted in the menu. This provides detailed information and suggestions.

Common Issues and Solutions:

• Camera does not power on: Check if the battery is charged and correctly inserted.
• Images are blurry: Ensure the lens is clean, autofocus is engaged, or consider using a higher shutter speed or tripod in low light.
• Dust spots on images: Utilize the Imaging Sensor Cleaning function. If spots persist, professional cleaning may be required.
• Memory card error: Ensure the card is inserted correctly and is not full or corrupted. Try reformatting the card (this will erase all data).

7. Specifications

8. Supplied Accessories

The following accessories are typically supplied with the Nikon D60:

• Strap
• Body Cap
• Eyepiece Cap
• USB Cable
• Quick Charger (MH-23) with AC adapter
• Rechargeable Li-ion Battery (EN-EL9)
• Accessory shoe cover
• Lens cap
• Software CD-Rom
• Quick Start Guide
• Instruction Manual (this document)
• Warranty and Registration card

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product. For further support, technical assistance, or service, please visit the official Nikon website or contact Nikon customer service.

You can also visit the Nikon Store on Amazon for product information and accessories.