396 David Busch’s Nikon D7000 Guide to Digital SLR Photography

provides an introduction to using the two main types of illumination: continuous light- ing (such as daylight, incandescent, or fluorescent sources) and the brief, but brilliant snippets of light we call electronic flash.

Continuous Illumination versus Electronic Flash

Continuous lighting is exactly what you might think: uninterrupted illumination that is available all the time during a shooting session. Daylight, moonlight, and the artifi- cial lighting encountered both indoors and outdoors count as continuous light sources (although all of them can be “interrupted” by passing clouds, solar eclipses, a blown fuse, or simply by switching a lamp off). Indoor continuous illumination includes both the lights that are there already (such as incandescent lamps or overhead fluorescent lights indoors) and fixtures you supply yourself, including photoflood lamps or reflec- tors used to bounce existing light onto your subject.

Electronic flash is notable because it can be much more intense than continuous light- ing, lasts only a brief moment, and can be much more portable than supplementary incandescent sources. It’s a light source you can carry with you and use anywhere.

Indeed, your Nikon D7000 has a flip-up electronic flash unit built in, as shown in Figure 12.1. But you can also use an external flash, either mounted on the D7000’s

Figure 12.1

One form of light that’s always available is the flip-up flash on your Nikon D7000.

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Nikon D7000 manual Continuous Illumination versus Electronic Flash

D7000 specifications

The Nikon D7000 is a mid-range digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera that has garnered a reputation for its impressive blend of features and user-friendly design. Released in 2010, the D7000 marked a significant step forward for Nikon, appealing to both amateur photographers and enthusiasts seeking a robust and versatile camera.

At the heart of the D7000 is a 16.2-megapixel APS-C (DX) CMOS sensor that delivers sharp, high-resolution images with rich colors and stunning detail. Coupled with Nikon's EXPEED 2 image processing engine, the camera excels in low-light performance, allowing photographers to shoot at sensitivities ranging from ISO 100 to ISO 6400, expandable to ISO 25600. This flexibility empowers users to capture clean images even in challenging lighting situations.

The autofocus system of the D7000 is another highlight, featuring a 39-point AF system with nine cross-type sensors. This advanced system ensures fast and accurate focus, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios, from portraits to fast-action sports photography. The camera also includes full HD video recording capabilities at 1080p, with options for frame rates of 24, 25, and 30 frames per second, providing videographers with quality and flexibility.

The D7000's build quality is robust, with a magnesium alloy body designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. It is weather-sealed to protect against dust and moisture, making it a reliable choice for outdoor shooting. The camera features a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots, allowing for high-clarity image review and menu navigation. The 100% viewfinder coverage gives a true-to-life perspective when composing shots.

Additional features include in-camera HDR, multiple exposure capabilities, and a comprehensive set of scene modes that assist users in achieving the best results in various conditions. The D7000 is also equipped with dual memory card slots, supporting both SD and SDHC formats for ample storage and backup options.

With its combination of high-quality imaging, advanced autofocus, robust build, and versatile features, the Nikon D7000 stands out as a powerful tool for photographers looking to elevate their craft.