Take Professional Pictures With the Nikon D40x
The Nikon D40X is a 10-megapixel entry-level DSLR. While the camera is geared towards first time SLR users and includes beginner-friendly scene modes, the D40X also has more advanced features such as shutter priority and white balance bracketing. These features give novices the opportunity to grow with the camera and become better photographers. With a little understanding of the features, it is possible to take excellent photos with the D40X.
Instructions
1. Change the image quality settings by pressing the "info" button, the "i" button, and "set at image quality." Use the down arrow to scroll to the RAW + B setting. This takes both an unprocessed RAW image and a processed JPEG image. Capturing images in RAW allows for better processing with photo editing software, while a JPEG can be given as a sample in lieu of a contact sheet to editors or buyers.
2. Use the continuous shooting mode to shoot three frames per second and to give yourself a better chance to capture a good shot. Turn on continuous shooting by pressing "info" and then "i." Use the down arrow to scroll to the appropriate shutter speed. Press the right arrow to go to the selection screen, then use the down arrow to select "continuous." Press "set" to store the value.
3. Shoot in exposure compensation mode when the light seems tricky. In exposure compensation mode, the D40X will shoot three images: one at normal exposure, one underexposed, and one overexposed. Turn on exposure compensation mode by pressing "info," then "i." Use the arrows to navigate to the appropriate exposure compensation, then select "set" to store the value.
4. Shoot in flash compensation mode when using either the in-camera flash or external speedlight. Flash compensation mode can be selected from the information display by pressing "info" and then "i," and navigating to flash compensation. From the highlighted line, you can change the value that the flash will shoot above and below normal up to three increments by pressing the right arrow and using the up and down arrows to select your preference.
5. Optimize the D40X for certain scenes when shooting in program, aperture, shutter, or manual modes by selecting "menu," then by pressing the right arrow once for camera settings. Use the down arrow to optimize the image, then press the right arrow once to access the options. You can choose black and white; soft, which is good for portraits; vivid, which is good for landscapes; more vivid; or portrait, which boosts color and sharpness for portraits and landscapes.
Tags: compensation mode, down arrow, exposure compensation, pressing info, right arrow