How to Deal With Nikon Coolpix Lens Error Problems

Your Nikon Coolpix point-and-shoot camera is usually steady and reliable as it delivers stunning images. Sometimes, however, your Nikon Coolpix, or other Nikon camera model, will display an error message, indicating that something has gone wrong. Here's a look at common Nikon Coolpix error messages and how to troubleshoot them.

"Cannot Record Movie" Error Message

The "Cannot Record Movie" error message usually means your Nikon camera can't pass the data to the memory card fast enough to record it, so a timeout error occurs. Most of the time, this is a memory card problem. The card could be corrupted or incompatible with your camera. To solve the issue, try a memory card with a faster write speed.

"File Does Not Contain Image Data" Error Message

There are a few reasons why you may be receiving this error:

Incompatible Memory Card

If you're using a memory card that's incompatible with Nikon, the camera could have trouble "talking" to the memory card, causing corrupted image files. Make sure to consult your manual to learn what memory cards are compatible with your camera. In some cases, you may lose pictures because of this incompatibility.

Changing Rotation on the Computer

If you receive the "File Does Not Contain Image Data" error message after viewing some files on your computer, the problem could be that you rotated or otherwise edited images on the computer, then tried to view them on your camera. In these cases, you probably didn't lose any pictures; you just can't view them on the camera.

Sharing the Memory Card

Some Nikon users report that if they use their memory card in another device and then insert it back into their camera, they receive the "File Does Not Contain Image Data" error message. In these cases, going back a few pictures seems to solve the problem.

Corruption

You may also have either a corrupted memory card or a corrupted photo file. If you don't have a backup, you may lose the corrupted photo or, in the case of a corrupted memory card, all photos on the card.

"Image Cannot Be Saved" Error Message

There are a couple of culprits behind this message.

Memory Card Issues

The memory card is once again an error message suspect. In the case of the "Image Cannot Be Saved" error, the memory card may be malfunctioning, or it might have been formatted in a camera that's incompatible with your Nikon model. In this case, you'll have to reformat the memory card, which, unfortunately, will erase all its data, or try a new memory card.

File Numbering System

The "Image Cannot Be Saved" error message might also refer to a problem with the camera's file-numbering system. Look through the camera's settings menu to either reset or turn off the sequential photo file-numbering system.

You've Run Out of Room

You might also receive this error if your memory card has run out of room, and there isn't enough space to save your image. Delete unwanted pictures and then try to save your image again.

"Lens Error" Message

The "Lens Error" message is common with point-and-shoot Nikon cameras. It means that a lens housing can't open or close properly.

Obstructions

Something could be stopping the lens from opening or closing. Make sure the lens housing doesn't have any foreign particles or grime on it that could cause problems. Sand is a common culprit in cases of a jammed lens housing. Make sure no obvious obstruction is in the way.

Battery

Another cause of the "Lens Error" message is a low or dead camera battery. Make sure you have a fully charged battery, and then see if this solves the problem.

"No Memory Card Error" Message

There are a few reasons why your camera isn't recognizing your memory card and is returning the "No Memory Card" error.

Card Compatibility

Make sure you're using a memory card compatible with your Nikon camera. Incompatible memory cards can cause all sorts of issues.

Full Card

The memory card may be full, so you'll need to download photos to your computer to free up space.

Malfunctions

The memory might also be malfunctioning, or it may have been formatted with a different camera. If this is the case, you may need to reformat the memory card with this camera. Keep in mind that formatting a memory card erases all its data.

"System Error" Message

While seeing the "System Error" message may be worrisome, the problem isn't necessarily complicated. The "System Error" message is a general error message that could be caused by a number of things. Here are some simple troubleshooting steps to try:

Battery

The battery might be causing a problem. Try removing the battery and memory card from the camera for at least 15 minutes, which should allow the camera to reset itself. See if this solves the problem.

Firmware Updates

If resetting the camera doesn't work, make sure you have the latest firmware and drivers for your camera model. Go to Nikon's Download Center and enter your camera's model, and then download and install any updates you find.

Malfunctioning Memory Card

This is yet another error that could be caused by a malfunctioning or wrongly formatted memory card. Try replacing the card and see if the error goes away.

No Error Message, But Camera Isn't Working

Sometimes, your camera may not be working properly, but it's not enlightening you with any error messages. In this case, consider resetting the camera by removing the battery and memory card for at least 10 minutes. Reinsert these items, and see if this gets your camera working again.