Learn the N80's controls thoroughly to get the most out of your camera.
Released in 2000 by Nikon, the N80 was the most advanced 35mm film single lens reflex (SLR) camera until the advent of digital format. Marketed toward advanced amateur and professional photographers, the N80 has Dynamic AF which allows for quick, precise auto focusing. An advanced metering system, which measures light from 10 different segments of the frame, is another powerful tool the camera offers. Instead of shooting in "P," or program mode, which leaves all the decision making up to the camera, make the most of your camera by exploring and utilizing its full range of features.
Instructions
1. Learn your N80's controls. Though the camera is dotted with buttons and packed with features, most can be learned by following the instructions in the owner's manual included with the camera. The mode dial, located on the top right of the camera body, lets you toggle between the different shooting modes. The exposure compensation button, located just beneath the shutter button, allows you to over- or underexpose your picture by a full two stops to compensate for tricky lighting situations. Your owner's manual will have more detailed information regarding the rest of the camera's functions.
2. Use Aperture Priority Auto mode to experiment with depth of field, or the range of effective focus. Appearing as "A" on the mode dial, this mode lets you select the aperture, or size of the lens opening, while the camera selects the shutter speed required for proper exposure. A wide aperture, such as f/2.8 or f/4, keeps your subject sharp while throwing the background out of focus. A small aperture, like f/11 or f/16, will extend the range of focus, making everything in front of and behind your subject sharp.
3. Switch to Shutter Priority Auto mode when shooting fast action, such as a car race or sporting event. This mode appears as "S" on the mode dial and allows you to select the shutter speed while the camera chooses an appropriate aperture. A shutter speed of 1/500th of a second is fast enough to freeze most motion. Generally, a fast shutter speed requires a wide aperture for proper exposure.
4. Explore Manual mode once you feel confident enough. Manual mode, appearing as "M" on the mode dial, lets you select both aperture and shutter speed yourself. Dial in your settings using the rotating knob on the back of the camera body. The exposure meter within the viewfinder window will indicate whether your settings will result in proper exposure, overexposure (too light) or underexposure (too dark).
5. Vary your focal length. The N80 arrives with a 28-80mm zoom lens, which allows for experimentation. Zoom all the way out to shoot from a wide angle perspective, or zoom all the way in to shoot from a telephoto point of view. A wide angle is ideal for street and architectural photography, while a telephoto view is better suited for portraiture.
6. Find a favorite 35mm film. Instead of switching between many different films, stick with one that gives the most enjoyable colors, tones and contrast. This ensures consistent results roll after roll.
7. Use your N80 often. Regular use is the best way to become familiar with a camera.
Tags: shutter speed, mode dial, proper exposure, 35mm film, aperture shutter, aperture shutter speed