nikon d80 shutter speed

FUDGEY · #1 (**permalink**) 14-06-2009, 09:44 PM

Hi all, just got myself a nikon d80 and as I am new to cameras of this stamp I was hoping someone on here that is knowledgable could answer a couple of questions for me. 1. can you set it to a faster shutter speed for moving subjects and if so I'd be grateful if anyone could tell me how to do it. Thanks in advance to anyone who can help.

Lancashire Lad · #2 (**permalink**) 14-06-2009, 10:08 PM

Hi Fudgey,

The D80 is a great camera, but might be slightly daunting if you aren't used to manual camera control.

I would suggest having a good read of the user manual, because that's the only way you are ever going to be able to get to grips with what this camera can do.

If you don't have a manual, you can download it via this link. (but it doesn't let you subsequently print it off). To download a printable copy of the manual, you would need to register the serial number of your camera on the Nikon website.
http://www.nikonusa.com/pdf/manuals/...80_noprint.pdf

In a nutshell, you need to put the camera into shutter priority mode, which will let you set the shutter at whatever speed you decide. But, this directly affects the aperture, so the faster the shutter speed, the wider the aperture will become, thus reducing depth of field. (just a fact of photographic life I'm afraid).

If you are new to DSLR's, I would strongly recommend getting hold of a copy of "Digital Photography For Dummies". The dummies books are a fantastic resource for explaining things in a down to earth way. (I have several myself).

Regards
Mike.

pressld2 · #3 (**permalink**) 14-06-2009, 10:41 PM

I agree with every word that Mike says but would just add that as you increase the shutter speed and the aperture opens up wider you will eventually reach the maximum aperture of the lens. If you keep on increasing shutter speed after that the camera will under-expose. But there will be an indicator in the viewfinder to warn you of this.

There is a fair bit to learn at the start but you'll get there and have a lot of fun on the way!

Dave P.

sidewalkdoctor · #4 (**permalink**) 14-06-2009, 11:46 PM

Go here Nikon D80 User's Guidefor a printable PDF for _any_ Nikon (in this case D80).

You will find the PDF link on the page. It's not official Nikon but I found the Nikon D40 pdf that Mr Rockwell supplied a lot more help than any Nikon manual.

FUDGEY · #5 (**permalink**) 15-06-2009, 08:45 AM

top advice, I'll takke it on board and start studying. Much appreciated ty all very much.

Mike B · #6 (**permalink**) 15-06-2009, 11:21 PM

I realise your posting was a while ago and I hope you have got to grips with the D80.
If I can throw in an alternative, follow these steps and you won't over-expose.
1] set to 'P' - programme
2] lightly dab the shutter release
3] rotate the wheel on the rear of the camera near the right hand strap loop, in a counter-clockwise direction, ie. put your thumb on the left side of the wheel and move it to the right.
Looking through the viewfinder indicates the increase in shutter speed until the maximum is reached for the given aperture.
Mike