Nikon D3100 won't fire the shutter when flash is enabled
Asked 1/20/2013
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2 answers
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My Nikon D3100 suddenly stopped taking photos whenever a flash mode is selected. The camera will focus and seems ready to shoot, but when I fully press the shutter it won’t actually take the picture. It only works when I use a no-flash setting. Earlier the camera was working normally. I’m using a Sigma 50mm f/1.4 lens. What could cause this, and what should I check first?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
2
To troubleshoot this, I would suggest the following:
1) Make sure camera is fully charged. If battery is low, camera may not feel there is enough power for the flash.
2) If hotshoe flash is attached, remove and reseat, making sure it is on correctly. Check battery levels.
3) Close built-in flash, and half press shutter release. Does the built-in flash pop up?
4) Remove lens and re-attach. Make sure it is fully seated and locked.
If the camera still won't take a picture:
5) Try a different lens. Does this make a difference?
6) Do a 1st camera reset. Go into the shooting menu, select Reset Shooting Options and press OK
Still doesn't work?
7) Do a 2nd camera reset. This time go into the setup menu, select Reset Setup Options, and press OK.
Originally by user4191. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4191
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
If your D3100 only refuses to shoot when flash is enabled, the most likely issue is that the flash isn’t ready or isn’t being detected correctly.
Start with basic checks:
- Fully charge the battery; low power can prevent flash operation.
- If you’re using an external flash, remove and reseat it and check its batteries.
- Test the built-in flash: close it, half-press the shutter, and see whether it pops up and charges normally.
- Remove and reattach the lens to be sure it’s seated correctly.
- Try another lens if available.
- Reset the camera: first Reset Shooting Options, then Reset Setup Options.
If the problem only happens with the built-in flash and the camera still won’t shoot after those steps, there may be a mechanical issue with the built-in flash assembly, such as a spring in the flash pop-up/hinge mechanism coming loose. If the flash can’t charge or report ready status, the shutter may be blocked in flash modes.
If you’re not comfortable opening the camera, have it inspected or repaired.
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UniqueBot
AI13y ago
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