Nikon COOLPIX S31 User manual

No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except
for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without
written authorization from NIKON CORPORATION.
CT2L01(11)
6MN13211-01
DIGITAL CAMERA
Reference Manual

Feature Highlights of the COOLPIX S31
Let your camera take over
APoint and Shoot....................................................A34
When you set the camera to APoint and shoot, the camera automatically enters scene auto
selector mode. There’s no need to change the mode: simply point the camera at the subject.
The camera determines the shooting conditions and changes the settings appropriately. This
feature allows you to spend less time changing camera settings and more time taking
pictures!
Take pictures underwater
Shoot Under Water....................................................A45
Set Choose a style to Shoot under water and take bright, clear underwater pictures even
in low light. White balance settings are adjusted for underwater shooting so that colors are
reproduced accurately. You’ll have plenty of shots to remember your underwater adventures
by!
Add voice messages to your pictures
Exchange Messages...................................................A66
You can add messages to your pictures. Enjoy listening to recorded messages and recording
replies to messages. Use this feature to exchange messages with friends and family, or to
capture the sounds and atmosphere of your pictures so that your audience can share your
experiences.
Have fun sharing your pictures
Slide Show..................................................................A66
Add effects and music to your pictures and create an original slide show. Three effects are
available. You can liven up your slide shows by having the built-in animations appear in your
pictures. Sharing pictures with friends and family has never been this fun!

i
Introduction
Parts of the Camera and Basic Operations
The Basics of Shooting and Playback
Shooting Features
Playback Features
Recording and Playing Back Movies
General Camera Setup
Reference Section
Technical Notes and Index

ii
Introduction
Introduction
Read This First
Thank you for purchasing the Nikon COOLPIX S31 digital camera. Before using the camera,
please read the information in “For Your Safety” (Aix) and “<Important> Shockproof,
Waterproof, Dustproof, Condensation“ (Axv), and familiarize yourself with the information
provided in this manual. After reading, please keep this manual handy and refer to it to
enhance your enjoyment of your new camera.

iii
Introduction
About This Manual
If you want to start using the camera right away, see “The Basics of Shooting and Playback”
(A9).
To learn about the parts of the camera and basic operations, see “Parts of the Camera and
Basic Operations” (A1).

iv
Introduction
Other Information
•Symbols and Conventions
To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions
are used in this manual:
•SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards are referred to as “memory cards” in this manual.
•The setting at the time of purchase is referred to as the “default setting.”
•The names of menu items displayed in the camera monitor, and the names of buttons or
messages displayed on a computer monitor appear in bold.
•In this manual, images are sometimes omitted from monitor display samples so that
monitor indicators can be more clearly shown.
•Illustrations and monitor content shown in this manual may differ from the actual product.
Icon Description
BThis icon indicates cautions and information that should be read before using
the camera.
CThis icon indicates notes and information that should be read before using the
camera.
A/E/FThese icons indicate other pages containing relevant information;
E: “Reference Section”, F: “Technical Notes and Index.”

v
Introduction
Information and Precautions
Life-Long Learning
As part of Nikon’s “Life-Long Learning” commitment to ongoing product support and education,
continually updated information is available online at the following sites:
•For users in the U.S.A.: http://www.nikonusa.com/
•For users in Europe and Africa: http://www.europe-nikon.com/support/
•For users in Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East: http://www.nikon-asia.com/
Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information, tips, answers to frequently
asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital imaging and photography. Additional
information may be available from the Nikon representative in your area. Visit the site below for
contact information:
http://imaging.nikon.com/
Use Only Nikon Brand Electronic Accessories
Nikon COOLPIX cameras are designed to the highest standards and include complex electronic
circuitry. Only Nikon brand electronic accessories (including battery chargers, batteries, and AC
adapters) certified by Nikon specifically for use with this Nikon digital camera are engineered and
proven to operate within the operational and safety requirements of this electronic circuitry.
THE USE OF NON-NIKON ELECTRONIC ACCESSORIES COULD DAMAGE THE CAMERA AND MAY VOID
YOUR NIKON WARRANTY.
The use of third-party rechargeable Li-ion batteries not bearing the Nikon holographic seal could
interfere with normal operation of the camera or result in the batteries overheating, igniting,
rupturing, or leaking.
For more information about Nikon brand accessories, contact a local authorized Nikon dealer.
Holographic seal: Identifies this
device as an authentic Nikon product.

vi
Introduction
Before Taking Important Pictures
Before taking pictures on important occasions (such as at weddings or before taking the camera on
a trip), take a test shot to ensure that the camera is functioning normally. Nikon will not be held liable
for damages or lost profits that may result from product malfunction.
About the Manuals
•No part of the manuals included with this product may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed,
stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form, by any means, without
Nikon’s prior written permission.
•Nikon reserves the right to change the specifications of the hardware and software described in
these manuals at any time and without prior notice.
•Nikon will not be held liable for any damages resulting from the use of this product.
•While every effort was made to ensure that the information in these manuals is accurate and
complete, we would appreciate it were you to bring any errors or omissions to the attention of the
Nikon representative in your area (address provided separately).

vii
Introduction
Notice Concerning Prohibition of Copying or Reproduction
Note that simply being in possession of material that was digitally copied or reproduced by means
of a scanner, digital camera or other device may be punishable by law.
•Items prohibited by law from being copied or reproduced
Do not copy or reproduce paper money, coins, securities, government bonds or local government
bonds, even if such copies or reproductions are stamped “Sample.” The copying or reproduction of
paper money, coins, or securities which are circulated in a foreign country is prohibited. Unless the
prior permission of the government was obtained, the copying or reproduction of unused postage
stamps or post cards issued by the government is prohibited.
The copying or reproduction of stamps issued by the government and of certified documents
stipulated by law is prohibited.
•Cautions on certain copies and reproductions
The government has issued cautions on copies or reproductions of securities issued by private
companies (shares, bills, checks, gift certificates, etc.), commuter passes, or coupon tickets, except
when a minimum of necessary copies are to be provided for business use by a company. Also, do
not copy or reproduce passports issued by the government, licenses issued by public agencies and
private groups, ID cards and tickets, such as passes and meal coupons.
•Comply with copyright notices
The copying or reproduction of copyrighted creative works such as books, music, paintings,
woodcut prints, maps, drawings, movies, and photographs is governed by national and international
copyright laws. Do not use this product for the purpose of making illegal copies or to infringe
copyright laws.

viii
Introduction
Disposing of Data Storage Devices
Please note that deleting images or formatting data storage devices such as memory cards or
built-in camera memory does not completely erase the original image data. Deleted files can
sometimes be recovered from discarded storage devices using commercially available software,
potentially resulting in the malicious use of personal image data. Ensuring the privacy of such data is
the user’s responsibility.
Before discarding a data storage device or transferring ownership to another person, erase all data
using commercial deletion software, or format the device and then completely refill it with images
containing no private information (for example, pictures of empty sky). Care should be taken to
avoid injury or damage to property when physically destroying data storage devices.

ix
Introduction
For Your Safety
To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others, read
the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equipment.
Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them.
WARNINGS
Turn off in the event of
malfunction
Should you notice smoke or an
unusual smell coming from the
camera or Battery Charger, unplug the
AC adapter and remove the battery
immediately, taking care to avoid
burns. Continued operation could
result in injury. After removing or
disconnecting the power source, take
the equipment to a Nikon-authorized
service representative for inspection.
Do not disassemble
Touching the internal parts of the
camera or Battery Charger could result
in injury. Repairs should be performed
only by qualified technicians. Should
the camera or Battery Charger break
open as the result of a fall or other
accident, take the product to a Nikon-
authorized service representative for
inspection, after unplugging the
product and/or removing the battery.
Do not use the camera or
Battery Charger in the
presence of flammable gas
Do not use electronic equipment in
the presence of flammable gas, as this
could result in explosion or fire.
Handle the camera strap with
care
Never place the strap around the neck
of an infant or child.
This icon marks warnings, information that should be read before using this Nikon
product, to prevent possible injury.

x
Introduction
Keep out of reach of children
Particular care should be taken to
prevent infants from putting the
battery, brush, or other small parts into
their mouths.
Do not remain in contact with
the camera, battery charger,
or AC adapter for extended
periods while the devices are
on or in use
Parts of the devices become hot.
Leaving the devices in direct contact
with the skin for extended periods may
result in low-temperature burns.
Observe caution when
handling the battery
The battery may leak, overheat, or
explode if improperly handled.
Observe the following precautions
when handling the battery for use in
this product:
•Before replacing the battery, turn
the product off. If you are using the
Battery Charger/AC adapter, be sure
it is unplugged.
•Use only a Rechargeable Li-ion
Battery EN-EL12 (included). Charge
the battery by inserting it in a
Battery Charger MH-65 (included).
•When inserting the battery, do not
attempt to insert it upside down or
backwards.
•Do not short or disassemble the
battery or attempt to remove or
break battery insulation or casing.
•Do not expose the battery to flame
or to excessive heat.
•Do not immerse in or expose to
water.
•Replace the terminal cover when
transporting the battery. Do not
transport or store with metal objects
such as necklaces or hairpins.
•The battery is prone to leakage
when fully discharged. To avoid
damage to the product, be sure to
remove the battery when no charge
remains.
•Discontinue use immediately should
you notice any change in the
battery, such as discoloration or
deformation.
•If liquid from the damaged battery
comes in contact with clothing or
skin, rinse immediately with plenty
of water.

xi
Introduction
Observe the following
precautions when handling
the Battery Charger
•Keep dry. Failure to observe this
precaution could result in fire or
electric shock.
•Dust on or near the metal parts of
the plug should be removed with a
dry cloth. Continued use could
result in fire.
•Do not handle the power cable or
go near the battery charger during
lightning storms. Failure to observe
this precaution could result in
electric shock.
•Do not damage, modify, forcibly tug
or bend the power cable, place it
under heavy objects, or expose it to
heat or flame. Should the insulation
be damaged and the wires become
exposed, take it to a Nikon-
authorized service representative for
inspection. Failure to observe these
precautions could result in fire or
electric shock.
•Do not handle the plug or battery
charger with wet hands. Failure to
observe this precaution could result
in electric shock.
•Do not use with travel converters or
adapters designed to convert from
one voltage to another or with DC-
to-AC inverters. Failure to observe
this precaution could damage the
product or result in overheating or
fire.
Use appropriate cables
When connecting cables to the input
and output jacks, use only the cables
provided or sold by Nikon for the
purpose, to maintain compliance with
product regulations.
Handle moving parts with care
Be careful that your fingers or other
objects are not pinched by the lens
cover or other moving parts.
CD-ROMs
The CD-ROMs included with this device
should not be played back on audio CD
equipment. Playing CD-ROMs on an
audio CD player could cause hearing
loss or damage the equipment.

xii
Introduction
Observe caution when using
the flash
Using the flash close to your subject’s
eyes could cause temporary visual
impairment. Particular care should be
observed if photographing infants,
when the flash should be no less than
1 m (3 ft 4 in.) from the subject.
Do not operate the flash with
the flash window touching a
person or object
Failure to observe this precaution
could result in burns or fire.
Avoid contact with liquid
crystal
Should the monitor break, care should
be taken to avoid injury caused by
broken glass and to prevent liquid
crystal from the monitor touching the
skin or entering the eyes or mouth.
Turn the power off when
using inside an airplane or the
hospital
Turn the power off while inside the
airplane during take off or landing.
Follow the instructions of the hospital
when using while in a hospital. The
electromagnetic waves given out by
this camera may disrupt the electronic
systems of the airplane or the
instruments of the hospital.

xiii
Introduction
Notices
Notice for Customers in the
U.S.A.
Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Radio
Frequency Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15
of the FCC rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment
off and on, the user is encouraged to try
to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
•Reorient or relocate the receiving
antenna.
•Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.
•Connect the equipment into an
outlet on a circuit different from that
to which the receiver is connected.
•Consult the dealer or an
experienced radio/television
technician for help.
CAUTIONS
Modifications
The FCC requires the user to be
notified that any changes or
modifications made to this device that
are not expressly approved by Nikon
Corporation may void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.

xiv
Introduction
Interface Cables
Use the interface cables sold or
provided by Nikon for your equipment.
Using other interface cables may
exceed the limits of Class B Part 15 of
the FCC rules.
Notice for customers in the State of
California
WARNING
Handling the cord on this product will
expose you to lead, a chemical known
to the State of California to cause birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
Nikon Inc.,
1300 Walt Whitman Road Melville,
New York 11747-3064 USA
Tel: [phone]
Notice for customers in Canada
CAUTION
This Class B digital apparatus complies
with Canadian ICES-003.
ATTENTION
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B
est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du
Canada.
Notices for customers in Europe
CAUTIONS
RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS
REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT TYPE.
DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES
ACCORDING TO THE INSTRUCTIONS.
This symbol indicates that
this product is to be
collected separately.
The following apply only to
users in European countries:
•This product is designated for
separate collection at an
appropriate collection point. Do not
dispose of as household waste.
•For more information, contact the
retailer or the local authorities in
charge of waste management.
This symbol on the battery
indicates that the battery is
to be collected separately.
The following apply only to
users in European countries:
•All batteries, whether marked with
this symbol or not, are designated
for separate collection at an
appropriate collection point. Do not
dispose of as household waste.
•For more information, contact the
retailer or the local authorities in
charge of waste management.

xv
Introduction
<Important> Shockproof, Waterproof, Dustproof, Condensation
•Make sure to read the following instructions as well as the instructions provided in “Caring
for the Product” (F2).
Notes About Shockproof Performance
This camera has passed Nikon’s in-house test (drop test from a height of 1.2 m (3.9 ft) on a
5 cm (2 in.) thick plywood panel) compliant with MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock*.
This test does not guarantee the waterproof performance of the camera or that the camera
will be free from damage or trouble under all conditions.
Changes in appearance, such as paint peeling off and deformation of the drop shock portion
are not subject to the Nikon’s in-house test.
* U.S. Department of Defense test method standard.
This drop test drops 5 cameras in 26 directions (8 edges, 12 corners, and 6 faces) from a height of
122 cm (48 in.) to make sure that one to five cameras pass the test (if any defect is detected during
the test, another five cameras are tested to make sure that the test criteria are satisfied for one to
five cameras).
bDo not subject the camera to excessive shock, vibration or pressure by dropping
or hitting it.
Failure to observe this precaution could cause water to seep inside the camera and result in
camera malfunction.
•Do not use the camera deeper than 5 m (16.4 ft) underwater.
•Do not subject the camera to water pressure by exposing it to high-pressure running
water.
•Do not sit down with the camera in the pocket of your trousers.
Do not forcibly stuff the camera into a bag.

xvi
Introduction
Notes About Waterproof and Dustproof Performances
The camera is equivalent to IEC/JIS waterproof grade 8 (IPX8) and IEC/JIS dustproof grade 6
(IP6X) and enables shooting pictures underwater at a depth of 5 m (16.4 ft) for up to 60
minutes.*
This rating does not guarantee the waterproof performance of the camera or that the camera
will be free from damage or trouble under all conditions.
* This rating indicates that the camera has been designed to withstand the specified water pressure
for the specified period of time when the camera is used according to the methods defined by
Nikon.
bIf the camera is subjected to excessive shock, vibration or pressure by dropping
or hitting it, the waterproof performance is not guaranteed.
•If the camera is exposed to shocks, it is recommended to consult your retailer or Nikon-
authorized service representative to confirm the waterproof performance (charged service).
- Do not use the camera deeper than 5 m (16.4 ft) underwater.
- Do not subject the camera to water pressure by exposing it to rapid flowing water or
waterfalls.
- Your Nikon warrantee may not cover troubles caused by water seeping inside the
camera due to improper handling of the camera.
•The waterproof performance of this camera is designed to work for fresh water and
seawater only.
•The inner portion of this camera is not waterproof. Water seeping inside the camera could
cause a malfunction.
•Accessories are not waterproof.
•If liquids or water droplets come into contact with the outside of the camera or the inside
of the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover, immediately wipe the liquids off with a
soft dry cloth. Do not insert wet memory cards or the battery.
If the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover is opened or closed under wet conditions
near a waterfront or underwater, this could cause water to seep inside the camera or result
in camera malfunction.
Do not open or close the cover with wet hands. This could cause water to seep inside the
camera or result in camera malfunction.

xvii
Introduction
•If a foreign substance adheres to the outside of the
camera or the inside of the battery-chamber/memory
card slot cover (such as the hinge, memory card slot, and
connectors), remove it immediately with a blower. If a
foreign substance adheres to the waterproof packing
inside the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover,
remove it with the included brush. Do not use the
included brush for anything other than cleaning the
waterproof packing.
•If a foreign substance such as suntan oil, sunscreen lotion, hot spring, bath mix powder,
detergent, soap, organic solvent, oil, or alcohol adheres to the camera, immediately wipe it
off.
•Do not leave the camera in high-temperature conditions of 40°C (104°F) or more (in
particular, a place exposed to direct sunlight, inside the cabin of a car, on a boat, on the
beach, or near a heating device) for a long period of time. This could cause deterioration of
the waterproof performance.
Before Using the Camera Underwater
1. Make sure that there are no foreign substances inside the battery-chamber/
memory card slot cover.
•Any foreign substances such as sand, dust or hair inside the battery-chamber/memory
card slot cover should be removed with a blower.
•Any liquid such as water droplets inside the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover
should be wiped off with a soft dry cloth.
2. Make sure that the waterproof packing (A3) of the battery-chamber/memory
card slot cover is not cracked or deformed.
•The waterproof performance of waterproof packing may start to deteriorate after one
year.
If the waterproof packing begins to deteriorate, consult your retailer or Nikon-
authorized service representative.
3. Make sure that the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover is firmly closed.
•Slide the cover until it clicks into place.

xviii
Introduction
Notes About Using the Camera Underwater
Observe the following precautions to prevent water from seeping inside the
camera.
•Do not dive into water deeper than 5 m (16.4 ft) with the camera.
•Do not continuously use the camera underwater for 60 minutes or more.
•Use the camera in the water temperature range 0°C–40°C (32°F–104°F) when using it
underwater.
Do not use the camera at hot springs.
•Do not open or close the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover underwater.
•Do not subject the camera to shock when using it underwater.
Do not jump into water with the camera or subject it to high water pressure conditions
such as rapids or waterfalls.
•This camera does not float in water. Make sure not to drop the camera underwater.
Cleaning After Using the Camera Underwater
•After using the camera underwater, clean the camera within 60 minutes. If you leave the
camera in wet conditions where salt particles or other foreign substances adhere to it, this
could cause damage, discoloration, corrosion, a bad smell or deterioration of waterproof
performance.
•Before cleaning the camera, thoroughly remove water droplets, sand, salt particles, or
other foreign substances from your hands, body, and hair.
•It is recommended to clean the camera indoors to avoid a place where it could be exposed
to water spray or sand.
•Do not open the battery-chamber/memory card slot cover until all foreign substances are
washed off with water and all moisture is wiped off.