Picture Control
Nikon's unique Picture Control system lets you modify and share image processing settings, including sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, and hue, among compatible devices and software.
Auto
The camera automatically adjusts hues and tones based on the Standard
Picture Control. The complexions of portrait subjects will appear softer, and such
elements as the foliage and sky in outdoor shots more vivid, than in pictures taken
with the Standard Picture Control.
Standard
Standard processing for balanced
results. Recommended for most situations.
Neutral
Minimal processing for natural
results. Choose for photographs that will later be processed or retouched.
Vivid
Pictures are enhanced for a vivid, photoprint effect. Choose
for photographs that emphasize primary colors.
Monochrome
Take monochrome photographs.
Portrait
Process portraits for skin with natural texture and a rounded
feel.
Landscape
Produces vibrant landscapes and cityscapes.
Flat
Details are preserved over a wide tone range, from highlights
to shadows. Choose for photographs that will later be extensively processed or retouched.
Picture Control: Auto
The camera automatically adjusts hues and tones based on the Standard Picture Control. This softens the subject’s complexion in portrait photographs, while rendering the sky and foliage in landscape photos more vividly.
Picture Control: Flat
Choose for photographs that will later be extensively processed or retouched. Details are preserved over a wide tone range, from highlights to shadows.
The "Flat" Picture Control was originally intended for pictures that will later be retouched. The resulting low contrast and unsaturated colors make it a less appealing choice for day-to-day photography. Nevertheless, as designed it is good at preserving details in highlights and shadows. It can therefore be used to create custom Picture Controls that produce good-looking photos that also preserve details in highlights and shadows. You’ll need to pay attention to the following four parameters: sharpening, contrast, saturation, and clarity.
Compare pictures taken with the "Standard" Picture Control with those shot using the customized "Flat" Picture Control. The customized "Flat" control has more space at the ends of the histogram, showing that there is more detail in shadows and highlights.