Nikon d40 display not showing?

So i have a nikon d40 and i messed up the setting some how and now when i'm going to take a picture it doesn't show on the screen so i have to look through the viewfinder. And after i take a picture it shows, but while and before i'm taking it doesn't.

If you can bring up a menu look for a setting which either controls the display or toggles between digital and manual view. If you can't get to a menu then maybe look for a button that switches it out or maybe even a reset button that you have to press with a pin. Make sure that you save your pictures before you do a reset, but that should restore it to factory default. Also removing the battery for an extended period of time might do a factory reset. Also check elsewhere online. I'm sure there's forums or instructions for a factory restore on that model.

Looking through the viewfinder is the best way to use your camera. If you insist on using the LCD like that, then read through the cameras manual for "Live view". If you don't have your manual, then you can download it from Nikon.

What you are talking about is called live view and your camera does not have it. You didn't mess anything up, you have to look through the viewfinder to compose your picture. The LCD screen can only be used to view the picture or histogram after you take the shot. Only the newer models have live view.

Well, since I have a D40, I can tell you with 110% certainty that it does NOT have the capability of live view.

besides, you shouldn't use it even if you do have it.

I don't know who thumbed down the guys for stating the D40 does not have live view, because if they'd done their research they'd know: Nikon's D40 is COMPLETELY UNABLE TO PREVIEW what you would capture, it can only review images already taken. This is down to the way in which the camera is built and can't be changed.

Thumbs up to the guys who previously posted this - trying to redress the balance.