Manual Focus

Controls used: Focus mode selector/lens focusing ring

Manual focus is available for lenses that do not support autofocus (non-AF Nikkor lenses) or when autofocus does not produce the desired results (29). To focus manually, set the focus-mode selector to M and adjust the lens focusing ring until the image displayed on the clear matte field in the viewfinder is in focus. Photographs can be taken at any time, even when the image is not in focus.

When using a lens that offers A-M selection, select M when focusing manually. With lenses that support M/A (autofocus with manual priority), focus can be adjusted manually with the lens set to M or M/A. See the documentation provided with your lens for details.

The Electronic Range Finder

If the lens has a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster, the viewfinder focus indicator can be used to confirm whether the portion of the subject in the selected focus area is in focus. After positioning the subject in the active focus area, press the shutter-release button halfway and rotate the lens focusing ring until the in-focus indicator (●) is displayed.

Focal Plane Position

To determine the distance between your subject and the camera, measure from the focal plane mark on the camera body. The distance between the lens mounting flange (11) and the focal plane is 46.5 mm (1.83 in.).

32 Reference: More on Photography (All Modes) / Focus