Underwater photographers and outdoor photographers will appreciate the large LCD
viewing monitor for composing photographs. The LCD monitor will allow you to see
your subject in sharp focus and framed properly. Hold the camera housing in your
outstretched arm at a position that is both comfortable and also allows you to easily
see the LCD monitor, for best compositional options. The anti glare LCD shade will
assist your viewing in high ambient light.
Once you have composed your scene or subject in the LCD monitor, depress the
shutter release button to take the picture. A half depress will activate the live viewing
ability of the LCD and allow the camera to focus, once in focus and ready to shoot
a green light will appear on the LCD monitor and the camera is ready to take the
picture. Press down the shutter all the way to complete image capture. You may notice
a pre-flash and slight delay in the shutter release. This is to allow the camera to make
its final focus and exposure calculations before taking the picture. With a little practice,
you will become used to this and taking pictures of moving subjects will become
easier and natural.
Taking the Picture:
There are several image file options to choose from that offer different resolution and
file sizes. This determination must be made prior to camera insertion from Menu
options. Please refer to the Coolpix instruction manual for details on setting these
preferences.
Choosing Image Files:
Battery Life:
The Lithium-ion battery that comes with the Coolpix is very efficient and lasts for
more than 180 shots--enough for a typical photo dive. However, there are certain
things that users can control to help with battery life. The most important is to set the
camera to turn the LCD off after a short time, during periods of non-use. It can then
be automatically turned back on if you depress the shutter release control half way.
Please refer to the Coolpix instruction manual for details on how to make this
adjustment setting. It is always wise to have backup batteries in case you do run out
of power. The supplied battery can be recharged many times and offer an economical
and environmentally friendly alternative to one-use disposable batteries. Check the
users manual of the camera for confirmation of compatibility with other batteries.
Using The Flash:
The Coolpix has a built-in flash, which will illuminate nearby underwater subjects.
For subjects that are farther away, an accessory slave strobe is recommended. (See
Below.) Due to the presence of suspended particles in the water, milky/clear diffuser
tape is supplied. It will widen and soften the light, providing more coverage and less
likelihood of
backscatter:
the unattractive snowstorm affect of the flash reflecting off
