3 replies to this topic

[alwrmcusn]

A few days ago I downloaded and installed the Snapbridge app on my tablet to use while on a weekend trip. While transferring photos (SLOWLY!! EVER SO SLOWLY!!) a notice popped up that said the camera (D3400) had a firmware update.

When I returned home, I checked and there is a firmware update that has something to do with "Lens distortion". I downloaded the file, opened the installation instructions and find they are VERY specific and apparently can damage the camera or lens if done incorrectly. The version of the firmware I have on the camera is 2.017 and the update is 2.018.

My question is: What exactly is lens distortion and do I really need to attempt this firmware update?

It says I can take the camera to a dealer for installation but I assume that I will be charged for the installation. Should I attempt the installation or simply continue using the camera as I have been for a year or so. I've had no discernable distortion that I have noticed.

[Merco_61]

Do you have any Nikon lenses that are newer than the firmware you are running? If you do, do you shoot in jpg with those lenses? If you have new lenses, shoot in raw and use Nikon's raw converters? These are the only cases where you will see any difference after updating.

 

Updating firmware is always a risk, but as long as you have a fully charged battery and follow the directions the risk is very small.

 

The lens distortion correction is a set of measurements of how each and every Nikon lens distorts and vignettes and the tools to correct for that in the camera. These corrections are applied to in-camera jpgs and written in the maker notes in the raw files. As they are in the maker notes, third-party raw converters ignore them and use the software developer's own set instead if they have any lens correction at all.

 

Nikon don't care about third-party lenses and ignore that they exist. They need to be corrected in post by the user if distortion-free images are needed.

[alwrmcusn]

The camera and lens were purchased at the AAFES (military) it is a a two lens outfit. I always shoot JPG and use Adobe Photoshop Elements for any processing. I am going to assume that since I have had no problems that this firmware can be ignored. 

I feel fairly safe in doing firmware updates on other devices. The installation instructions for this one just seemed to emphasis the dangers more than necessary.

I'll follow the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" path. 

Thank you for your reply.

[alwrmcusn]

Second Thought: Printed and CAREFULLY read the firmware installation instructions.

Bottom Line: Firmware installed, no problem.