Nikon Coolpix P100 Digital Camera Instruction Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Nikon Coolpix P100 digital camera. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation of your camera. The Nikon Coolpix P100 is a high-performance digital camera featuring a 10.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, a powerful 26x optical Zoom-NIKKOR ED glass lens, and Full HD (1080p) video recording capabilities. Its advanced features, including 5-way VR Image Stabilization and a 3-inch vari-angle LCD, are designed to enhance your photography experience.

Safety Information

To prevent damage to your Nikon Coolpix P100 and to avoid injury to yourself or others, please read the following safety precautions before using the camera:

• Do not disassemble or modify the camera.
• Keep the camera dry. Do not expose it to water or high humidity.
• Use only Nikon-approved accessories and power sources.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Avoid pointing the lens at the sun or other strong light sources for extended periods.

What's in the Box

Verify that all the following items are included with your Nikon Coolpix P100:

• Nikon Coolpix P100 Digital Camera Body
• EN-EL5 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
• EH-68P AC Adapter/Charger
• UC-E6 USB Cable
• EG-CP14 Audio Video Cable
• AN-CP21 Strap
• Coolpix Software Suite CD-ROM

Camera Overview

Figure 1: Rear view of the Nikon Coolpix P100, highlighting the vari-angle LCD and control layout.

Figure 2: Front and side view of the Nikon Coolpix P100, showcasing the NIKKOR 26x optical zoom lens.

Key Components

• Lens: NIKKOR 26x optical zoom lens.
• LCD Monitor: 3.0-inch vari-angle high-resolution HVGA Clear Color Display.
• Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): For precise framing.
• Mode Dial: Select shooting modes (P, S, A, M, Scene, etc.).
• Shutter-release Button: To capture photos.
• Zoom Control: Adjust optical zoom.
• Movie-record Button: Start/stop video recording.
• Flash: Built-in pop-up flash.
• Control Pad: For menu navigation and setting adjustments.
• Menu Button: Access camera settings.
• Playback Button: View captured images and videos.

Setup

1. Installing the Battery and Memory Card

Open the battery/memory card cover on the bottom of the camera. Insert the EN-EL5 battery, ensuring correct orientation. Insert an SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card until it clicks into place. Close the cover securely.

2. Charging the Battery

Connect the camera to the EH-68P AC Adapter/Charger using the UC-E6 USB Cable. Plug the charger into a power outlet. The charging indicator will light up during charging and turn off when complete. A full charge takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

3. Initial Setup (Date, Time, Language)

Turn on the camera using the power button. Follow the on-screen prompts to set the date, time, and desired language. These settings are crucial for proper image management.

Operating the Camera

1. Taking Photos

• Power On: Press the power button to turn on the camera.
• Select a Mode: Rotate the mode dial to select your desired shooting mode (e.g., Auto, Programmed Auto [P], Shutter-priority Auto [S], Aperture-priority Auto [A], Manual [M], or a Scene Mode).
• Frame Your Shot: Use the 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD or the electronic viewfinder to compose your image. Adjust the vari-angle LCD for comfortable shooting from various angles.
• Zoom: Use the zoom control to adjust the 26x optical zoom for wide-angle or telephoto shots.
• Focus: The camera will automatically focus on your subject. For specific focus points, use the control pad to select. The Smart Portrait System automatically detects faces and optimizes settings.
• Image Stabilization (VR): The 5-way VR Image Stabilization System automatically reduces blur caused by camera shake.
• Flash: If needed, press the flash button to pop up the built-in flash.
• Capture: Press the shutter-release button halfway to focus, then press fully to take the picture.

2. Recording Videos

• Start Recording: Press the dedicated Movie-record button to begin recording Full HD (1080p) video with stereo sound.
• Zoom During Video: The optical zoom and autofocus functions remain active during video recording.
• HS Movie Function: Utilize the high-speed movie function for slow-motion or fast-motion playback effects.
• Stop Recording: Press the Movie-record button again to stop recording.

3. Viewing Images and Videos

• Playback Mode: Press the Playback button to enter playback mode.
• Navigate: Use the control pad to scroll through your photos and videos.
• Zoom In/Out: Use the zoom control to magnify photos or view multiple images at once.
• Play Video: Select a video and press the OK button to play.

Advanced Features

• Smart Portrait System: Enhances portraits with features like Face-priority AF, Smile Timer, Blink Warning, Blink Proof, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix, and Skin Softening.
• Active D-Lighting: Optimizes images by preserving details in both highlights and shadows, resulting in more natural-looking photos.
• Backlit Scene HDR: Merges multiple exposures to create a single image with a wider dynamic range, ideal for high-contrast scenes.
• High-Speed Shooting: Capture fast-moving action at up to 10 frames per second at full resolution.
• 17 Scene Modes: Optimize camera settings for specific situations (e.g., Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene).
• Subject Tracking: Maintains focus on a moving subject.
• Distortion Control: Corrects barrel or pincushion distortion in images.
• Quick Retouch: Enhance photos directly in the camera after shooting.

Connectivity

• USB Connection: Connect the camera to a computer using the UC-E6 USB cable for image transfer or battery charging.
• HDMI Output: Connect the camera to an HDTV using an HDMI cable (not included) to view your photos and videos on a larger screen.

Maintenance

• Cleaning the Camera: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camera body. For the lens, use a lens brush or blower to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth.
• Battery Care: Store the battery in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid fully discharging the battery for extended periods.
• Storage: When storing the camera for long periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Nikon Coolpix P100, try the following basic troubleshooting steps:

• Camera does not turn on: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
• Images are blurry: Check that the lens is clean. Ensure the camera is stable and the 5-way VR is active. Adjust lighting conditions if necessary.
• Memory card error: Reinsert the memory card. If the error persists, try a different, compatible memory card.
• Flash does not fire: Ensure the flash is popped up and the shooting mode allows flash use.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

This product comes with a FULL 14 DAY SATISFACTION GUARANTEE and a FULL 90 DAY PARTS AND LABOR WARRANTY. For further support or warranty claims, please refer to the contact information provided at the point of purchase or visit the official Nikon support website.