The D80 is a discontinued 10-megapixel camera from Nikon that fit between the entry level D40 and the semi-professional D200 and D300. Like the entry level model, the D80 body was made from polycarbonate. Like the advanced cameras, the D80 had many shooting features controlled by buttons on the camera body. The D80 was replaced by the D90 in 2008.
Don't Go Auto
Though the D80 has an automatic mode, photographers can often get better results by using the digital or standard program modes. The D80 offers six variable program modes keyed to what you're shooting; the camera optimizes its settings for the shot. The modes are Portrait, Landscape, Close-Up, Sports, Night Portrait, and Night Landscape. In addition to the scene modes, the D80 has Program Auto, which lets the photographer experiment with ISO (light sensitivity) settings; higher ISO increases the sensitivity of the camera to light for better night shots, but also increases "noise" (a grain-like effect).
Optimize Image
The D80's menu includes an option to optimize camera settings for different types of photography; you can access this by going to Menu, then Optimize Image. Normal is the default setting. Softer produces softer outlines, good for portraits and more natural scenes. Vivid enhances contrast and color, producing enhanced reds, greens and blues. More vivid further enhances contrast and outlines for crisper images. Portrait optimizes skin tones. Custom lets you specify settings for sharpness, contrast, and color. Black and White lets you take monochrome shots.
Autofocus modes
The D80 has three autofocus modes, controlled by the AF button on the camera. AF-A is automatic autofocus; the camera selects either servo mode for stationary objects or continuous for moving objects; the shutter releases only if something is in focus. AF-S is servo mode, for stationary objects; the focus locks when the shutter is pressed halfway and releases when fully depressed and the in-focus indicator is lit. AF-C is for moving objects, and the focus locks when the shutter is pressed halfway, but can release even if the in-focus indicator isn't lit.
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