Nikon D3200 Digital Field Guide

Getting Started

The Nikon D3200 is an entry-level dSLR. So, while it is really easy for a beginner to pick up and get great shots, it has enough features and controls to keep any photographer satisfied. Once the basic setup is complete, turn the camera on by rotating the On/Off switch to the right. Now, it’s time to set the exposure mode, focus on your subject, and get shooting.

NOTE The camera does not work without a memory card. There is no built-in memory as there is on some point-and-shoot cameras.

Setting the exposure mode

When starting out, the first thing to do is to set the exposure mode to Automatic () by using the Mode dial on the top right of the camera. Rotate the dial until the word Auto is lined up with the white marker, as shown in Figure QT.2. In this mode, the camera uses the built-in light meter to read the light in the scene, and sets the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. The camera even raises the built-in flash automatically if it believes that more light is needed to create a proper exposure. This mode turns all of the controls over to the camera, essentially turning it into a point-and-shoot.

QT.1 Using Auto mode and the kit lens allowed me to focus more on the flower than on the camera controls. Exposure: f/5.6, 1/125 second, ISO 200.

QT.2 The Mode dial ...