I have a Nikon 1 camera but I can't figure out how to use the AF Area mode?

I recently got a Nikon 1 camera for my birthday last month, but I can't figure out how to use the AF-Area mode. When I try to select it, it says that that mode can't be used under current shooting conditions. Does anyone know what settings it should be on to use?

Added (1). I did read the manual, but it only explained what each mode does. Not HOW to set it up so I can use the mode.

Have you read your owner's manual - that would probably help.

You don't mention which shooting mode the camera is on, if you're trying to use it on video, or other settings that might help diagnose the problem.

One of the more common occurrences for beginners is having the camera set to Full Auto (green box) mode, which locks out all settings.

There's no "best" mode, which is why you are given the options. The Single Point mode is, however, the one that gives you the most control, although you may have to "recompose" the shot if you want the focused object to one side. The other two modes let the camera do some of the work for you, though you have to keep track of which AF targets it has chosen.

While I won't have a Nikon 1, I have both Nikon DSLRs and compact cameras. Nikon's interfaces have a common similarity, so I'm sure I can answer your question.

You likely have your camera in AUTO mode. When in Auto mode, many of the functions are disabled. Auto mode is exactly what it says - auto, and advanced features, such as AF Area are usually disabled in that mode, as the camera automatically makes the selection.

You will probably have to put your camera into Manual, Aperture, Shutter, or Program mode to change the AF Area mode. These are the advanced modes of your camera, and will then allow those advanced settings such as AF Area mode to be made.

Also, be aware that "scene" modes are also versions of auto mode - they just let you change the parameters of the auto setting.

I'm sure that somewhere - hidden in your manual - will tell you what modes the various settings are enabled or disabled. But often those things are pretty hard to find as they are probably in a separate section.

Remember these manuals probably originate in another language then translated or copied into English, so perhaps that loses some logical layout of where things should be. I have found the easiest way to find that stuff is to download a PDF version of the manual and then use the search function. A lot easier than trying to read through the whole manual.

By the way, this is not really unique to Nikon - most brand cameras having advanced features disable them while you are in AUTO mode.