D5100 nikon shutter works but no picture in LCD?

D5100 nikon shutter works but no picture in LCD?

About 99% of the time, you will be using the viewfinder to compose your shots and using the data in it to control your exposure and keep track of the cameras ISO, image resolution, flash condition, image count, battery condition, electronic rangefinder, focus points and a host of other data the is important to know before pressing the shutter release.

Almost all cameras have an option for the image to display the image on the LCD after a shot has been taken, but frankly that wastes a lot of energy that is better used to operate the camera. The LCD is the most draining on the cameras battery, followed by any on-board flash you may be using.

Live view is another way to really use up battery power. It is only really necessary when you have the camera mounted on a telescope or microscope or happen to be shooting in industrial settings when a welder is at work and you need to protect your eyes from intense UV light (not the UV filter on your lens, it is not going to do the trick.)

There's another time when live view is helpful and that is when you are using the articulated LCD on your camera when the camera is either very low to the ground or being held high above your head. It is mandatory when shooting video with your camera.

Look in your user manual for all the information on using the LCD display and setting it up to show your shot after you press the shutter release and how to use live view

You've got a $600 camera but can't be bothered to read the manual? If you had read the manual you wouldn't have needed to ask this question.

That camera is capable of taking some fantastic photos, but you won't get the best out of it if you don't understand how it works. Just take a few minutes to read through it. Not only will you benefit from finding out all the cool things it can do, you won't be asking stupid questions on YA!