Manual Mode

[Amber]

Ok. I need some (alot of) help using Manual mode. I have a Nikon d3000, the kit lens (18-55) and a 55-200 VR. Let me start off with saying..I have no clue what I'm doing. Yeah.

When I used Manual mode inside, with the camera on M, but the lens on A (I forgot to change it), I could see the picture on the LCD after I took it, but I couldn't focus. When I use the camera and lens, both on M, I not only can't focus, but can't see the picture at all (I can see it thru the viewfinder, just not after I take it). It's almost completely black.

I'm going to a concert on Saturday and I MIGHT buy a 50mm 1.8 or MAYBE a 1.4 before then, but they still won't do me any good if I can't focus in Manual, since they don't have AF on my camera.

So, would anyone like to explain in simple terms what settings I need to put the camera in, and, if you're feeling generous, help me with focusing in Manual. Thanks in advance!!

 

[2pups622]

I would buy the 35 mm Since it has the motor in it. It would make things a lot easier. That's what i have for my d60.

 

[Psyfalcon]

You want the lens set to A. That lets you change the settings through the camera. When you changed it on the lens, you probably confused the camera in some way, since it was almost all dark... aka very underexposed.

The kit lens should autofocus with a digital camera though?

 

[Lizmo]

Yes a kit lens will focus on a DSLR camera.

I <3 manual. I use it as often as I can. I suggest going outside and playing around with the f/stop, shutter speed, and ISO. The higher the ISO, the grainer the picture. I usually never use 1600 - I haven't had any problems with 800 though.

Here is a picture of the screen:

The 100 is the shutter speed. F5 is the f/stop. The Auto above the boxed 'S' is the ISO, click on this to change the ISO. The boxed 'S' setting allows you to change to continuous shoot, 10 second, 20 seconds, etc. The Auto above the ISO Auto is where you change your white balance.

Don't be afraid. If it doesn't turn out right, delete and change the setting. It's no biggie and you WILL get the hang of it super fast! Then you'll be hooked!

 

[Amber]

Thanks guys! You were actually more helpfull than a photography forum I asked..

The kit lens does autofocus, but the lens I'm looking into buying doesn't. I may go with the 35mm, as suggested, though.