Adjusting Contrast: Tone Compensation

As photographs are saved to the memory card, they are processed to adjust the distribution of tones in the image, enhancing contrast. Tone compen- sation is performed by means of tone curves that define the relationship between the distribution of tones in the original image and the compensated result. The Tone compensation menu controls the type of curve used.

Taking Photographs

Option

Auto (default)

Normal

Less contrast

More contrast

Custom

Description

Camera automatically optimizes contrast by selecting the appropriate curve. Curve varies from shot to shot, even in scenes of same type; to take multiple shots with same curve, choose different setting. For best results, use a type G or D lens.

Camera uses same standard curve for all images. Suited to most scenes, whether dark or bright.

Produces “softer” images. Prevents highlights on portrait subjects from being “washed out” in direct sunlight.

Choose this curve to preserve detail in misty landscapes and other low-contrast subjects.

Camera Control Pro (available separately) can be used to download up to three custom tone curves to the camera. Choose Custom to select a user-defined curve ( 72). If no custom curve has been cre- ated, this option is equivalent to Normal.

—Image Adjustment

1 Highlight Tone compensation in the shoot- ing menu ( 168) and press the multi selector to the right.

2 Highlight the desired option and press the multi selector to the right. If Custom is se- lected, a menu of custom tone curves will be displayed ( 72). Otherwise, the shooting menu will be displayed.

69

Page 83
Image 83
Nikon D2Xs manual Adjusting Contrast Tone Compensation, Normal, Custom