Battery Issue...Perhaps

To save time I've linked a picture of what I've asked on Twitter recently...

Also, my on/off switch is a little stiff, while I don't mind it myself I do wonder of it may become a problem in the future?

Sorry if these seem like silly questions, like I said I am VERY new to the world of photography, my camera is second hand from eBay and I'm yet to mark the guy for it.

Welcome to the site
I would be concerned about the issue you posted about. Should be good to go.

Since the D40 has been around for some time, there is no way to tell the age or condition of the batteries. I would buy two fresh new batteries and not worry about it. Welcome to Nikonies.

Thank you for the welcome and thanks again for any advice... The main reason I asked is that the camera is fairly dusty, almost like a small layer of plaster dust, I'm wondering if this is what's causing the stiff on/off

Welcome to the forum

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Some useful links
http://support.nikonusa.com/app/ans.../nikon-product-manuals-available-for-download
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Thanks

Those are venting holes for the battery, so it won't explode with the internal pressure when it's being charged.