How To Use Sony DSC H400: Setup and Shooting Guide
The Sony DSC H400 is a point-and-shoot camera that punches well above its weight class. With a 20.1-megapixel sensor, HD video recording, and an impressive 63x optical zoom, it gives you the reach to capture distant subjects that most compact cameras simply cannot touch. If you are learning how to use Sony DSC H400 for the first time, this guide covers everything from charging the battery to shooting your first photos and videos.
Charging the Sony DSC H400
- Remove the battery from the packaging and connect it to the included USB cable. Plug the other end of the cable into the AC adapter.
- Connect the AC adapter to a wall outlet and let the battery charge completely before first use.
- You can also charge the camera by connecting it directly to a laptop or desktop computer via USB.
Configuring the Main Menu Settings
- When you power on the camera for the first time, you will be prompted to set the date, time, and language.
- After completing the initial setup, the main menu opens up a wide selection of settings and features, each marked by its own icon.
- For image size and aspect ratio, choose settings that fit the way you plan to use your photos. Note that images are saved in JPEG format only.
- You can adjust image compression, display size, and panorama direction from the menu as well.
- Select your preferred file format based on how you plan to edit or share your photos.
- Dedicated control buttons for exposure, photo creativity, and autofocus are accessible from the shooting screen.
- Use the function buttons to browse through the different shooting controls and settings.
- The control dial adjusts setting values for each shooting mode. Turn it to increase or decrease values like shutter speed, aperture, or ISO.
- You can customize a range of options including timer, focus magnification, auto review, speaker level, grid line display, zoom behavior, function button assignments, exposure guide, menu layout, and custom key mappings.
- For wireless sharing, the camera supports one-touch NFC, airplane mode, WPS push, manual access point setup, device name editing, and network settings reset.
Shooting Images and Videos
Still Images
Press the shutter button halfway to lock focus on your subject. You will hear a confirmation click when the camera locks on. Then press the button all the way down to capture the shot. This two-stage shutter action helps ensure your photos come out sharp and properly focused.
Videos
Press the Movie button to start recording. While filming, you can use the zoom menu to adjust your framing without stopping the recording. Press the Movie button again to stop. The camera records in HD, which works well for most everyday video needs.
Working with Manual Settings
To get more control over your images, switch to one of the manual exposure modes. The Sony DSC H400 offers Program mode, Shutter Priority mode, and Aperture Priority mode, among other options. Each mode gives you a different level of control over how the camera exposes each shot. Make sure you have selected the correct mode dial position before adjusting individual settings.
Reviewing Your Images
Press the playback button to browse through the photos and videos saved on your memory card. Use the control button to scroll through images one at a time. If you want to remove a photo or video, press the Delete button. Keep in mind that deleted files cannot be recovered, so review carefully before confirming.
Final Thoughts on Using the Sony DSC H400
With the steps above, you should have a solid foundation for getting started with the Sony DSC H400. The camera offers plenty of room to grow as your skills improve, from basic auto shooting to full manual control. If you run into trouble with any specific feature or setting, check the printed user manual that came in the box for detailed explanations of every menu option and control.
See Also