• Ensure that the strap is properly attached. The strap will need to bear the weight of the camera and any attached lens and you must ensure that it is able to do so. Nikon will not accept liability for any damage that occurs due to a failure to properly attach the strap.

• Beware of moisture. Unless your camera is marketed as being waterproof, moisture of any kind can result in the need for costly repairs, or worse - a new camera! Keep your camera well protected if water is about. If you get caught in a sudden shower, or the camera accidentally gets splashed with liquid, wipe it immediately with an absorbent cloth. If you can, use a gentle hairdryer or airing cupboard to ensure the camera is completely dry before storing with a desiccant such as silica gel which should absorb excess moisture. It is also important to consider the environment in which the camera is being used. Be aware of conditions that may allow moisture to condense - For example, when entering a cool or air-conditioned environment from outside humidity, or vice versa, we would recommend placing the camera in an airtight container or bag - this should ensure the equipment is subjected to a gradual temperature change and any condensation should form on the container and not the internal surfaces of the camera.

• The beach may provide wonderful photo opportunities that are not to be missed, but with such an abundance of sand, water and salt – all potentially seriously damaging to any electronic equipment - extra care must be taken to ensure the experience is not ruined by the need for extensive repairs to the camera. When it is not being used, ensure the camera is safely stored in a protective case. And don’t forget that sand can find its way in to the most surprising of places, so after leaving the beach it is good idea to shake or vacuum out any sand particles that have attached themselves to the inside of the camera’s case.

• Store the camera with a desiccant in a well-padded case, preferably in a well ventilated area to prevent mould or mildew growth. Remove any batteries from the camera before storing, particularly if you do not intend to use it for some time. This said, to avoid any problems caused by inactivity, we would recommend that the camera is taken out and used at regular intervals. This can help to prevent some problems and also, should a malfunction have occurred, prevent a last minute panic to have the camera repaired before that important occasion.

• Keep your camera clean, but be careful when doing so! Remove dust and dirt from the external surfaces of your camera using a blower and/or soft brush. If necessary, wipe with a soft cloth, but be careful not to apply pressure to the LCD monitor, if applicable. Be careful when cleaning the lens elements or mirror as these can be easily damaged. And stay well clear of the shutter - powerful air currents or cleaning tools could deform or damage the curtains.

• Be careful when inserting a Compactflash card into the camera, first making sure the card is not damaged, nor its holes blocked. If you feel an increase in resistance when the trying to insert the card, do not apply any force - you could be bending or flattening one of the camera’s CF card pins and could cause a short. As with all physical damage, any damage to these pins is not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.