College of Built Environments at the University of Washington.
Nikon D100 - How do I use this thing?
While it would be best to read the manual (particularly pages 1-36), here are some quick steps to get you started. Please note that you really will have to read the manual to learn how to use the many features of this camera. Also please note that while BE Computing consultants can help with some issues (like attaching lenses without breaking them, or connecting the camera to a computer), we're not photographers, so the manual will be your best source of guidance for learning to use this amazing device.
Part I. How to take a picture.
1. Attach a lens. Line up the white dot on the lens with the white dot on the camera body (it's near the lens release button labeled 20 in the front view). The lens mount is spring-loaded, so you'll need to push gently. When the lens is seated, twist it counterclockwise (as you're looking into the lens) until you feel it latch. If it seems hard to twist, STOP. Ask a knowledgable colleague or one of the computing consultants in Gould 227 for help.
2. Set the lens aperture to its smallest size (highest number). This is necessary for the camera's auto-aperture function to work. If the lens has a latch to lock the manual aperture ring at the smallest size, engage it.
3. Turn the camera on (the switch is labeled 7 in the top view).
4. To restore default settings, hold down both buttons labeled with a green dot (11 in the top view, and 24 in the rear view).
5. Set the shooting mode to single frame. Hold the mode-dial lock release down (2) and turn the shooting mode dial (3) to S (single frame).
6. Set the focus mode to single-servo autofocus. Turn the focus-mode selector (21) to S (single-servo autofocus).
7. Choose matrix as the metering method. Turn the metering selector (42) to the middle setting.
8. Set the function dial (17) to P (auto multi program). At this setting, the camera will automagically adjust the shutter-speed and aperture.
9. Compose the image (if you don't see anything in the viewfinder, check to see that the lens cap is off). Press the shutter release button (9) to take the picture.
10. Be sure to turn the camera off when you're done (7).
Part II. How to transfer images into a computer.
1. Connect the USB cable to the computer and to the camera's USB port (under the connector cover, 19).
2. The computer may want to install a driver. If you get stuck, ask one of the computing consultants in Gould 227 for help. You can also call them at 206-543-8531, or send email to caup@u.washington.edu.
3. Once the appropriate driver is installed (if necessary), the camera will show up as a disk drive on the computer. You can copy or move the files from the camera to the computer using the normal techniques.
4. Be sure to turn the camera off when you're done (7)