The Nikon D80 is a 10.2 megapixel digital SLR camera released in 2006. The D80 is a camera built for photography enthusiasts, with an abundance of features not found on standard digital cameras. Getting started may be more difficult for the casual photographer, but with some practice anyone can take beautiful, high quality pictures with the D80.
Setup
Before you can take pictures with the D80, you need to setup the camera for proper operation. First, you will need to attach an external lens to the camera. To attach a lens, remove the rear cap from the lens by facing it toward you, twisting it clockwise and pulling it off. Next, remove the protective cap from the body of the camera. Line up the mounting index on the lens, a small circle near the rear of the lens, with the mounting index on the camera, a small circle located across from the "D80" logo on the front of the camera. Place the lens on the camera's mount and twist counterclockwise until it clicks into place. Finally, locate the "Focus Mode" switch on the lens and select "A" for auto focus.
Insert a fully charged battery in the bottom of the D80. Press the battery cover latch and pull open the door to reveal the battery chamber. Slide the battery into the chamber with the rounded end of the battery facing away from the camera and the arrow facing down. Close the battery cover to secure the batteries.
The D80 also needs a memory card to record your photographs. The memory card slot is located on the right side of the camera when the view screen is facing you. Pull open the memory card door by sliding the latch toward the back of the camera and pulling out. Slide the memory card into the slot with the contacts facing in and the front label on the card facing the back of the camera. When it clicks into place, close the memory card door. When you turn on the camera you will be prompted to format the card. Hightlight "Yes" by using the down directional button, and press "OK."
Taking Pictures
The D80 is now ready for use. You can begin taking snapshots by turning the mode dial on top of the camera to "Auto." Line up the shot in the viewfinder or with the LCD screen and press the shutter button halfway to auto focus on the subject. When the camera is finished focusing, a beep will sound and the in-focus indicator will light. In addition, the D80 will highlight the focus areas of the subject in the LCD. To take the picture, press the shutter button fully.
The D80 has several additional shooting modes that are useful in different shooting conditions. Each of the shooting modes changes the settings in the camera according to the conditions. Practice using the different shooting modes to maximize the effectiveness of the D80.
Review
If you want to review your pictures, press the "Play" button located above and to the left of the LCD screen. The first picture you will see is the last picture taken. Press the multi selector left or right, or turn the main control dial to review the rest of your images.
Tags: memory card, shooting modes, auto focus, back camera, battery cover, card door, clicks into
