Chapter 12 ■ Making Light Work for You

409

Figure 12.7

A focal plane shutter has two curtains, the lower, or first curtain, and an upper, second curtain.

When first-curtain sync is used, the flash is triggered at the instant that the sensor is com- pletely exposed. The shutter then remains open for an additional length of time (from 30 seconds to 1/250th second), and the second curtain begins to move downward, cov- ering the sensor once more. When second-curtain sync is activated, the flash is triggered after the main exposure is over, just before the second curtain begins to move downward.

A Typical Electronic Flash Sequence

Here’s what happens when you take a photo using electronic flash, either the unit built into the Nikon D7000 or an external flash like the Nikon SB-900, all within a few mil- liseconds of time:

1.Sync mode. After you’ve selected a shooting mode, choose the flash sync option available in that mode by holding down the Flash button and rotating the main command dial until the icon representing the choice you want is displayed in the top-panel monochrome LCD. (See Figure 12.8.)

2.Metering method. Choose the metering method you want, from Matrix, Center- weighted, or Spot metering.

3.Activate flash. Press the flash pop-up button to flip up the built-in flash, if neces- sary, or mount (or connect with a cable) an external flash and turn it on. A ready light appears in the viewfinder and on the back of an external flash when the unit is ready to take a picture.

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Nikon D7000 manual Typical Electronic Flash Sequence
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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.
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