Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Nikon COOLPIX P300 digital camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the camera and keep it handy for future reference.
The COOLPIX P300 features a 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, a 4.2x wide-angle f/1.8 NIKKOR optical zoom lens, and Full HD 1080p video recording capabilities. It is designed for photographers seeking advanced features in a compact form factor.
Product Overview
Figure 1: Front View of Nikon COOLPIX P300. This image displays the front of the Nikon COOLPIX P300 digital camera, highlighting its lens, flash, and the Nikon branding. The lens is a NIKKOR 4.2x Wide Optical Zoom VR lens.
Figure 2: Top View of Nikon COOLPIX P300. This image shows the top of the Nikon COOLPIX P300 digital camera, featuring the mode dial, shutter button, and power button. The camera's sleek black finish is visible.
Key Features:
- 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor for high-speed operation and exceptional low-light performance.
- 4.2x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom-NIKKOR Glass Lens.
- 4-way VR Image Stabilization System.
- EXPEED C2 with enhanced image quality and processing speed.
- 3-inch Ultra-High Resolution (921,000-dot) Clear Color Display.
What's in the Box
Upon opening your Nikon COOLPIX P300 package, ensure all the following items are present:
- COOLPIX P300 Digital Camera
- AN-CP19 Strap
- UC-E6 USB Cable
- EG-CP16 Audio/Video Cable
- EN-EL12 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
- EH-69P AC Adapter/Charger
- Nikon View NX 2 CD-Rom
Setup
1. Charging the Battery
- Insert the EN-EL12 rechargeable Li-ion battery into the camera.
- Connect the camera to the EH-69P AC Adapter/Charger using the UC-E6 USB cable.
- Plug the AC Adapter/Charger into a power outlet. The charging indicator will illuminate.
- Charging is complete when the indicator light turns off.
2. Inserting a Memory Card
- Open the battery/memory card cover on the bottom of the camera.
- Insert an SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card into the slot with the contacts facing the correct direction until it clicks into place.
- Close the cover securely.
3. Attaching the Camera Strap
Thread the AN-CP19 strap through the strap eyelet on the camera body to prevent accidental drops.
Operating the Camera
Power On/Off
Press the power button located on the top of the camera to turn it on or off.
Shooting Modes
Rotate the mode dial on the top of the camera to select your desired shooting mode:
- Auto Mode: For simple point-and-shoot operation.
- Programmed Auto (P): Camera sets shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure.
- Shutter-Priority Auto (S): You control shutter speed, camera sets aperture.
- Aperture-Priority Auto (A): You control aperture, camera sets shutter speed.
- Manual (M): Full control over both shutter speed and aperture.
- Scene Modes: Optimized settings for specific scenes (e.g., Landscape, Night Portrait).
- Special Effects: Apply creative filters like High-Contrast Monochrome, Nostalgic Sepia, Fisheye, Miniature, and Cross Screen.
Taking Photos
- Frame your shot using the 3-inch LCD display.
- Press the shutter button halfway down to focus.
- Press the shutter button all the way down to take the picture.
Recording Videos
The COOLPIX P300 supports Full HD (1080p) movie recording with stereo sound.
- Press the dedicated movie-record button to start recording.
- Press the button again to stop recording.
- Optical zoom can be used during video recording.
Video 1: Nikon COOLPIX P300 Overview. This video provides a brief overview of the Nikon COOLPIX P300 camera's features and capabilities, including its design and key functions.
Playback
Press the playback button to view your photos and videos. Use the multi-selector to navigate through your media.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Camera
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body.
- For the lens and LCD screen, use a specialized lens cleaning cloth and solution. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Battery Care
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Avoid exposing batteries to extreme temperatures.
- Charge the battery fully before extended storage.
Storage
When storing the camera for long periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store the camera in a dry, well-ventilated area, preferably in a camera bag to protect it from dust and impact.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Camera does not turn on. | Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted. Try using a different charged battery if available. |
| Images are blurry. | Check focus settings. Ensure sufficient lighting. Use the VR (Vibration Reduction) feature or a tripod in low light. Clean the lens. |
| Memory card error. | Ensure the memory card is inserted correctly. Try formatting the card (note: this will erase all data). Use a different memory card. |
| Flash does not fire. | Check flash mode settings. Ensure the flash is not set to "Flash Off". |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Nikon COOLPIX P300 |
| Effective Still Resolution | 12.2 MP |
| Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
| Optical Zoom | 4.2x |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.8 |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Video Resolution | FHD 1080p |
| Screen Size | 3 Inches |
| Display Resolution | 921,000-dot |
| Supported File Format | JPEG, RAW |
| Connectivity Technology | HDMI, USB |
| Item Weight | 6.72 ounces |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Nikon website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Online Resources:
- Official Nikon Support: Nikon USA Support
- Product Registration: Register your product online to receive updates and support.
