Selecting the Shooting Mode, Programmed, Manual

SELECTING THE SHOOTING MODE

The Nikon FA offers four shooting modes: three automatic exposure modes, including P (programmed), S (shutter-priority), and A (aperture-priority), in addition to M (manual) mode.

Moreover, the FA utilizes an automatic multi-pattern metering system in all three automatic modes to ensure correct exposure even in difficult lighting situations In this system, light is individually measured from five separate areas of the focusing screen and then analyzed by the camera's microcomputer, giving you the automatically corrected exposure without the need for manual exposure compensation In the manua mode, regular centerweighted metering is always n operation Just center the main subject in the viewfinder to get correct exposure. Selection of centerweighted metering is also possible in all automatic modes by depressing the metering control button 9 (refer to page 40 for more information). The metering system in use also depends on which lens is mounted on the camera (see page 18).

Each shooting mode has its own advantages as explained below. Choose your desired mode and set the shooting mode selector 68 to the appropriate click-stop. Intermediate settings cannot be used According to the shooting mode you select, you must also set the shutter speed and/or aperture which will then be displayed in the viewfinder.

P (Programmed)

The optimum combination of shutter speed and aperture is automatically set by the FA's microcomputer, depending upon scene brightness, film speed, and lens focal length in use For short lenses (less than 135mm), the FA uses a normal program to ensure correct exposure. But with telephotos of 135mm or longer, the camera automatically switches to a special

highspeed program to reduce the possibility of camera shake caused by slow shutter speeds The P mode not only greatly simplifies operation but also lets you concentrate on picture composition, making it desirable for fast-breaking action when there isn't time to think.

S (Shutter Priority)

You set the shutter speed manually and the FA's microcomputer automatically selects the matching aperture. This mode is good for stopping fast action and required when motion is an important factor in your pictures, such as in sports photography

A (Aperture-Priority)

Select the lens aperture first; then the FA’s microcomputer selects the matching shutter speed for you. This mode is recommended when the rendition of depth must be controlled exactly. For instance, you may want to blur out the background in portraiture or make everything come out sharp in scenic photography.

M (Manual)

You set both the shutter speed and aperture manually according to the desired effect. Necessary exposure information is shown in the viewfinder With this mode, it's possible to create intentional over- or underexposed photos It's also good under specie shooting situations. Time exposures at the B setting or mechanical release at M250 are performed n the manual mode. Flash photography with flash units other than Nikon dedicated flash units should also be performed in this mode.