Camera connected to lights and now AF isn't working (Nikon D5000)

[MegR]

I can not find the users manual for the life of me (we just moved from WA state to VA so things are all packed away) and I ordered an indepth Nikon D5000 book but that wont be here for a few days.

So I set up my lights this morning and played around with my kids and husband and at first everything came out really dark and you couldn't see the image. I took the camera off AF (auto focus) and put it on manual and it was ok, but I can not seem to get a clear image for anything. I was going to take pics of a neighbors baby today but I put her off to later in the week. I know I can use natural light but I already know how to do that, I want to learn lighting. Any suggestions? Can I use Autofocus while connected to a light source?

M

 

[RockstarPhotography]

There has to be enough ambient light for your camera to be able to focus.

 

[MegR]

That was probably the issue. I was afraid the ceiling lights would look awful. I am going to keep trying and I will get it right (soon).

M

 

[cnutco]

That was probably the issue. I was afraid the ceiling lights would look awful. I am going to keep trying and I will get it right (soon).

M

You could also try turning on a light in the next room, which could also act as fill light if the subject is positioned correctly.

 

[Big Mike]

We need more info.

What type of lights did you set up? (flash/strobes or lamps?)

 

[KmH]

You can download a PDF of the manual at Nikon Product Manuals available for download. A good place to store your camera users manual is in your camera bag.

How are your lights connected to the camera? IIRC the D5000 doesn't have a port for a PC cable unless you've attached an AS-15 Sync Terminal Adaptor to the hotshoe.

If you are getting dark images:

• the lights aren't syncing to the shutter (if they are strobed (flash)lights)
• the lens aperture is to small
• the shutter speed is to fast

What shooting mode are you using? P, S, A, M?