I am an amateur and new user to a Nikon SLR. Is there a setting that causes the film exposure to be half black?
2007-01-20 18:00:11 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Consumer Electronics ➔ Cameras
You could have a couple of problems:
1. flash synchronization - you did not mention if you were using the flash. If you were, this is a simple fix. All flashes operate at 1/60 (there are exceptions). When you are using flash make sure your shutter speed is set to 1/60 and the problem will go away.
2. mechanical problem - you give no history on the camera. The problem could be the mirror sticking or a sticky shutter. In any event, you'll need to take the camera to a good repair shop for an estimate, fixing and cleaning.
If you bought this used, you might want to contact the seller and discuss the repair bill. He/she probably knew about the problem and were just looking for a fast buck.
2007-01-21 02:01:27 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I had a similar problem with my Nikon N65, except three quarters of the picture was black. The problem was the shutter: I must have accidentally poked it while changing film. When you have the back of the camera open, the plastic shutter is supposed to look like closed venetian blinds. If it doesn't, then the film doesn't get exposed properly. You should probably take it into a shop to get it repaired, but (at your own risk of course), try to gently flatten it out again.
2007-01-21 08:26:59 · answer #2 · answered by Rando 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This could be caused if you were using flash and had the camera speed set higher than the flash synchronisation speed. Exposure is made in an SLR by two vertically travelling blinds, one behind the other. If you have your speed set higher than the correct speed (usually anywhere from /60 to 1/125) then the following blind starts to move before the flash has finished and you get the blackness you describe.
2007-01-21 06:24:37 · answer #3 · answered by rdenig_male 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Is every photo like this? I have heard of one other Nikon DLSR that had that fault, from memory it was sent back. I would love to learn what model yours is.
If you do happen to have the D80 like I do try the following.
Turn on the camera
Press the menu button
Click the left arrow on your multi selector
Use hte up/down arrows to navigate to setup menu (symbol of the spanner)
Select the CSM/Setup Menu
If necessary change this from simple to Full
Navigate back to the Custom Settings Menu (Pencil Symbol)
Select Custom Setting 31 Exp. Delay Mode & turn this on.
This setting introduces a delay between the mirror reflex and the shutter activation. In sensitive situations this allows the camera to settle down from "shake" introduced by the mirror reflex prior to the shutter firing.
I believe this would at least show you if it is the mirror is mistimed. Of course it won't show you if the mirror is simply sticking. Although you should be able to take a photo in manual mode with the lens off to verify this.
I'll look through my D50 settings and see if it has this ability in which case I will edit this post and add instructions for the D50 i case you have one of those.
2007-01-21 05:38:26 · answer #4 · answered by teef_au 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
It's definetly the mirror box. Take it to a repair shop and get an estimate, or send it to Nikon for an estimate. Likely looking to spend $150-250 give or take (if it's out of warranty).
2007-01-21 04:14:01 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Off-hand I'd say that the mirror isn't retracting all the way out of the way as the shutter opens and the photo is taken. You need a pro to repair this.
2007-01-21 02:07:06 · answer #6 · answered by Jolly 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋