En Autofocus Speedlight SB-600 SB-600 (En) Instruction Manual For your safety Before using your product, please read the following safety precautions carefully and thoroughly to ensure correct and safe use and to help prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or others. For quick reference by those who use the product, please keep these safety instructions near the product. In this manual, safety instructions are indicated with these symbols: WARNING result in personal injury, or death and property damage. CAUTION result in property damage. Disregarding instructions marked with this symbol could Disregarding instructions marked with this symbol could Symbol for separate collection applicable in European countries This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately. The following apply only to users in European countries. · This product is designated for separate collection at an appropriate collection point. Do not dispose of as household waste · For more information, contact the retailer or the local authorities in charge of waste management. i WARNINGS for Speedlights 1 If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and get in your eyes, immediately wash your eyes with running water and consult with a doctor. Your eyes could be seriously damaged if they are not treated quickly. 2 If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and come in contact with your skin or clothes, wash immediately with running water. Prolonged contact could injure your skin. 3 Never attempt to disassemble or repair the flash unit by yourself, as this could result in you receiving an electric shock and could also cause the unit to malfunction; such malfunction could lead to personal injury. 4 If the flash unit is dropped and damaged, do not touch any exposed interior metal parts. Such parts, especially the speedlight's capacitor and associated parts, could be in a high-charge state and if touched could cause an electric shock. Disconnect the power or remove the batteries and be sure that you do not touch any of the product's electrical components, and then bring the flash unit to your local Nikon dealer or authorized service center for repair. 5 If you detect heat, smoke or notice a burning smell, immediately stop operation and remove the batteries to prevent the unit from catching on fire or melting. Allow the flash unit to cool down so that you can safely touch it and remove the batteries. Then bring the unit to your local Nikon dealer or authorized service center for repair. 6 The flash unit should never be submerged in liquid or exposed to rain, saltwater or moisture unless it is properly protected from the liquids and moisture. Underwater use requires a certified underwater housing. If water or moisture gets inside the unit, this could cause the unit to catch on fire or cause an electric shock. In such instances you should immediately remove the batteries from the speedlight and then bring the unit to your local Nikon dealer or authorized service center for repair. Note: electronic devices that are penetrated by water or moisture are often not economically repairable. 7 Do not use the unit in the presence of flammable or explosive gas. If the flash unit is operated in areas where there is a flammable gas, including propane, gasoline and dust, it could cause an explosion or fire. 8 Do not fire the flash unit directly at the driver of a moving car, as this could temporarily impair the driver's vision and cause an accident. 9 Do not fire the flash unit directly into the eyes of someone that is at close range, as it could damage their eyes' retinas. Never fire the flash unit closer than 1 meter from infants. Preparation ii For your safety 10 Do not fire the unit while the flash head is touching a person or object. Such use can result in the person being burned, and/or their clothes igniting from the heat of the flash's firing. 11 Keep small accessories out of the reach of children to avoid the possibility of the accessory being swallowed. If an accessory is accidentally swallowed, immediately consult with a doctor. 12 Use only the batteries specified in this instruction manual. Batteries other than those specified could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire or otherwise not perform satisfactorily. 13 Do not mix battery types, brands or old and new batteries, as the batteries could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire. When using more than one battery in a product, always use identical batteries that were purchased at the same time. 14 Non-rechargeable batteries such as manganese, alkaline-manganese and lithium batteries should never be charged in a battery charger because they could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire. 15 When using standard size (AA, AAA, C, D) or other common rechargeable batteries such as NiCd and Ni-MH battery types, or when recharging them, be sure to use only the battery charger specified by the battery maker and read the instructions thoroughly. Do not recharge these batteries with their terminals reversed in the charger or before the batteries have cooled off sufficiently because they could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire. The same caution also applies to using the rechargeable batteries that may be supplied by the photo product's manufacturer. CAUTIONS for Speedlights 1 Do not touch the flash unit with wet hands, as this could cause an electric shock. 2 Keep the flash unit away from children to prevent them from putting the unit in or near their mouth, or otherwise touching a dangerous part of the product; as such contact could cause an electric shock. 3 Do not apply strong physical shocks to the unit, as this could cause a malfunction that could cause the unit to explode or catch on fire. 4 Never use active agents that contain flammable substances such as paint thinner, benzene or paint remover to clean the unit, and never store the unit in locations containing chemicals such as camphor and naphthalene, as this could damage the plastic case, cause a fire or cause an electric shock. iii 5 Remove any batteries from the unit before storing the unit for a long time to prevent the unit from catching on fire or leaking corrosive liquids. WARNINGS for Batteries 1 Never heat or throw batteries into a fire, as this could cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode. 2 Do not short-circuit or disassemble the batteries because this could cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode. 3 Do not mix battery types, brands or old and new batteries, as this could cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode. 4 Do not install batteries in the reverse direction as this could cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode. Even if only one battery is installed in reverse it will cause the speedlight to malfunction. 5 Be sure to use the battery charger specified by the battery maker to avoid the possibility of batteries leaking corrosive liquids, generating heat or exploding. 6 Do not carry or store batteries along with metallic materials such as necklaces and hair pins because such materials could cause the batteries to short-circuit, leading to battery leakage, heat generation or an explosion. In addition, specially when carrying a quantity of batteries, place them carefully in a storage case that prevents the battery terminals from touching another battery's terminals because if they touch in reverse order it could also cause the batteries to short-circuit, leading to battery leakage, heat generation or an explosion. 7 If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and get in your eyes, immediately wash your eyes with running water and consult with a doctor. Your eyes could be seriously damaged if they are not treated quickly. 8 If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and come in contact with your skin or clothes, wash immediately with running water. Prolonged contact could injure your skin. 9 Always follow the warnings and instructions printed on the batteries to avoid activities that could cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or catch on fire. 10 Be sure to use only batteries specified in this instruction manual, to avoid the possibility of batteries leaking corrosive liquids, generating heat or exploding. iv Preparation For your safety 11 Never open the casing surrounding batteries or use batteries whose casing has been breached as such batteries could leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode. 12 Keep batteries out of the reach of children to help avoid the possibility of them being swallowed. If a battery is accidentally swallowed, immediately consult with a doctor. 13 Batteries should not be submerged in water, exposed to rain, moisture or saltwater unless they are properly protected from the wet environment. If water or moisture gets inside the batteries, this could cause them to leak corrosive liquids or generate heat. 14 Do not use any battery that appears abnormal in any way, including a change in color or shape. Such batteries could leak corrosive liquids or generate heat. 15 Stop recharging rechargeable batteries if you notice that recharging is not completed within the specified time to help prevent the possibility of the battery leaking corrosive liquids or generating heat. 16 When recycling or disposing of batteries, be sure to insulate their terminals with tape. If the battery's positive and negative terminals shortcircuit after coming into contact with metallic objects, it could cause fire, heat generation or an explosion. Dispose of used batteries in accordance with local government regulations. 17 Non-rechargeable batteries should never be charged in a battery charger because they could leak corrosive liquids or generate heat. 18 Remove dead batteries from your equipment immediately, as they could leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode. CAUTION for Batteries Do not throw or apply strong physical shocks to the batteries as this could cause batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode. v Contents Preparation · For your safety.....................................................................i-v · Foreword ............................................................................4-6 · Tips on using the Speedlight ................................................7 · Camera groups and available flash modes ......................8-9 · Speedlight parts and their functions .............................10-11 · Control buttons....................................................................12 Easy setting for the optimum TTL auto flash mode ...............13 · LCD panel ......................................................................14-15 · Lenses.................................................................................16 · Basic operation .................................................................17 1 Installing the batteries ..................................................18-19 2 Test firing (Confirming the exposure) ...........................20-21 3 Attach the SB-600 to the camera and adjust the flash head ............................................................22-23 4 Setting the camera's exposure mode and metering system.........................................................24-25 5 Setting the SB-600's flash mode ..................................26-27 6 Compose the picture and shoot with flash...................28-29 Using the SB-600 with the COOLPIX ....................................30 · Detailed operation.............................................................31 · · · · SB-600's available flash modes ..........................................32 TTL auto flash mode ...........................................................33 Manual mode .................................................................34-37 Notes on continuous flash shooting....................................38 · Other functions .................................................................39 · Setting the zoom-head position .....................................40-41 · Exposure compensation and flash output-level compensation ..............................................................42-44 1 Contents · Checking the illumination before actually taking the picture (Modeling illuminator).....................................45 · Slow-sync flash mode, red-eye reduction control, and rear-curtain sync ..................................................46-47 · Auto FP High-Speed Sync mode (for compatible cameras) ..............................................48-49 · Flash Value Lock (FV Lock) (for compatible cameras).......50 · Autofocus flash operation in dim light ...........................51-52 · Custom Settings.............................................................53-55 · Advanced operations........................................................57 · · · · Overview of multiple flash operation .............................58-59 Wireless multiple flash shooting ....................................60-61 Flash shooting in Advanced Wireless Lighting .............62-66 Confirming wireless multiple flash operation using the ready-light or the beeping sound.....................67 · Multiple flash shooting using cords ...............................68-69 · System chart for TTL multiple flash shooting using cords..................................................................70-71 · Bounce flash operation..................................................72-74 · Close-up flash operation................................................75-77 Flash shooting in the 1/300 TTL High-Speed Flash sync mode (F5 only) ...............................................78 · Reference information ......................................................79 · · · · · · · TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-600 ..........80-82 Optional accessories .....................................................83-84 Tips on Speedlight care......................................................85 Notes on handling batteries................................................86 Troubleshooting..............................................................87-88 Specifications.................................................................89-91 Index ..............................................................................92-93 2 Preparation This section provides preliminary information on using the SB-600. Basic operation Basic procedures to take simple, properly exposed flash photographs in the TTL auto flash mode. Detailed operation A variety of flash modes available with the SB-600 are explained. Other functions Detailed information on each function of the SB-600 is provided. Advanced operations Information on advanced flash shooting techniques using the SB-600 is described. Reference information Optional accessories, Troubleshooting, Speedlight care, Specifications, etc. are presented in this section. 3 Foreword Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Speedlight SB-600. To get the most out of your Speedlight, please read this instruction manual thoroughly before use. Also, read the separate booklet, "A collection of example photos," which provides an overview of the SB-600's flash-shooting capabilities with example photos. In addition, keep your camera instruction manual handy for quick reference. Main features and functions of the SB-600 · The SB-600 is a high-performance Speedlight with a guide number of 30/98 (ISO 100, m/ft.) or 42/138 (ISO 200, m/ft.) (at the 35mm zoom-head position, 20°C/68°F.) According to the camera and lens combination used with the SB-600, you can perform various types of TTL auto flash (p. 33) and Manual flash operations (p. 34). · A power zoom function automatically adjusts the zoom-head position to match the lens focal length (with the exception of some camera/lens combinations) (p. 40). When the built-in wide-flash adapter is used, the zoom-head position is automatically set to match a 14mm lens (p. 41). · The flash head can be tilted from 0° to 90° and rotated horizontally 180° to the left and 90° to the right, enabling bounce flash (p. 72) or close-up flash photography (p. 75). · In wireless multiple flash photography, the SB-600 can be used as a wireless remote flash unit when the SB-600 is used with cameras compatible with the Nikon Creative Lighting System (p. 5). · When using bounce flash or taking close-ups with flash, you can use the built-in wide-flash adapter to create soft, diffused lighting with virtually no shadows, while maintaining balanced lighting for the main subject and the background (pp. 72, 75). · Custom settings are provided to set values, or activate or cancel functions that are unnecessary to set each time (p. 53). 4 Nikon Creative Lighting System Preparation The SB-600 features the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS). This system offers additional flash shooting possibilities with digital cameras by taking advantage of a camera's digital communication capabilities. CLS is available only when the SB-600 is used with compatible Nikon cameras. The SB-600 offers these major features: · i-TTL mode This is a TTL auto flash mode in the Nikon Creative Lighting System. Monitor Preflashes are fired at all times. The subject is correctly exposed by the light from the flash lighting and the exposure is less affected by the ambient light (p. 32). · Advanced Wireless Lighting With Advanced Wireless Lighting, wireless multiple flash operation in the TTL (i-TTL) mode can now be accomplished with digital SLRs. In this mode, you can divide the remote flash units into three groups and control the flash output independently for each group, expanding your range of creative multiple-flash shooting techniques. The SB-600 can be used only as a wireless remote flash unit (p. 62). · Flash Value Lock Flash Value (FV) is the amount of flash exposure needed for a subject. Using FV Lock with compatible cameras, you can lock in the appropriate flash exposure for the main subject. This flash exposure will remain fixed, even if you change the aperture or composition, or zoom the lens in or out (p. 50). · Flash Color Information Communication When the SB-600 is used with compatible digital SLRs, color temperature information is automatically transmitted to the camera. In this way, the camera's white balance is automatically adjusted to give you the correct color temperature when taking photographs with the SB-600. · Auto FP High-Speed Sync High-Speed flash synchronization at your camera's highest shutter speed is now possible. This is useful when you want to use a wider aperture to achieve shallow depth of field to blur the background (p. 48). · Wide-Area AF-Assist Illuminator In autofocus operation, the SB-600 emits AF-Assist illumination over a wider area. This enables you to perform autofocus photography in dim light even after you change the focus area of cameras supporting this function (p. 51). See your equivalent camera's instruction manual for details on the Nikon Creative Lighting System. 5 Foreword Notes · Default: Functions and flash modes preset when shipped from the factory are referred to as "Default" settings in this manual. · CLS: Hereafter, Nikon's new Speedlight system "Nikon Creative Lighting System" is abbreviated "CLS." Marks used in this manual · · · v: Denotes important points to prevent malfunction or shooting failure. t: Useful points that should be remembered for better usage of the SB-600. u: Provides convenient reference information when using the SB-600. Supplied accessories Speedlight Stand AS-19 Soft Case SS-600 6 Tips on using the Speedlight Take trial shots Preparation Take trial shots before photographing important occasions like weddings or graduations. Have Nikon spot-check your Speedlight regularly Nikon recommends that you have your Speedlight serviced by an authorized dealer or service center at least once every two years. Using your Speedlight correctly The Nikon Speedlight SB-600's performance has been optimized for use with Nikon brand cameras/accessories, including lenses. Camera/accessories made by other manufacturers may not meet Nikon's criteria for specifications, and nonconforming cameras/accessories could damage the SB-600's components. Nikon cannot guarantee the SB-600's performance when used with non-Nikon products. u Life-long learning As part of Nikon's "Life-long learning" commitment to ongoing product support and education, continually updated information is available on-line at the following sites: · For users in the U.S.A.: http://www.nikonusa.com/ · For users in Europe: http://www.europe-nikon.com/support · For users in Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa: http://www.nikon-asia.com/ Visit these sites to keep up to date with the latest product information, tips, answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital imaging and photography. Additional information is available from the Nikon representative in your area. See the URL below for contact information: http://nikonimaging.com/ Notes: · The Nikon N90s, N90, N75-Series, N70, N60, N55-Series, N50, N8008, N8008s, PRONEA 6i, N6006, N6000, N5005, N4004s and N4004 are sold exclusively in the U.S.A. · The Nikon N80-Series, N65-Series are sold exclusively in the U.S.A. and Central and South America. · The Nikon N2020 and N2000 are sold exclusively in the U.S.A and Canada. 7 Camera groups and available flash modes In this manual, Nikon cameras are divided into 10 groups, including cameras compatible with CLS*, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS*, and cameras in Groups I to VII, unless otherwise noted. First, consult the camera group table to see which group your camera belongs to. Then as you read the manual, you will find specific information on how to use the SB-600 with your particular camera. * CLS: Nikon Creative Lighting System (p. 5) Group Camera name Cameras compatible with CLS* Digital SLRs not compatible with CLS* I II III IV V VI VII COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL D2-Series, D200, D80, D70-Series, D50, D40-Series, F6 D1-Series, D100 F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F80-Series/ N80-Series, F75-Series/N75-Series, F70-Series/N70 F4-Series, F65-Series/N65-Series, F-801s/N8008s, F-801/N8008, Pronea 600i/6i F-601/N6006, F-601M/N6000 F60-Series/N60, F50-Series/N50, F-401x/N5005 F-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000 FM3A, FA, FE2, Nikonos V, F3-Series (with the AS-17) New FM2, FM10, FE10, F3-Series, F55-Series/ N55-Series COOLPIX 8400, COOLPIX 8800, COOLPIX P5000 8 *1 o: Balanced Fill-Flash. This always appears together with D (p. 33). *2 Wireless multiple flash in the i-TTL mode is possible. (Works as a remote flash unit only.) (p. 62) *3 While performing Balanced Fill-Flash, no o indicator appears. : Available ­ : Not available TTL auto flash mode (p. 33) D i-TTL D-TTL D D TTL o* 1 Manual mode (p. 34) G Wireless multiple flash Advanced Wireless Lighting (works as a remote flash unit only) (p. 62) *2 ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ *3 *3 ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ Preparation The SB-600's available flash modes vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the camera's exposure mode and metering system. For more details, refer to "Detailed operation" (p. 31), "TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-600" (p. 80) and your camera's instruction manual. 9 Speedlight parts and their functions 1 2 6 7 8 3 4 5 9 10 11 12 6 Auxiliary ready-light (p. 67) Works as a ready-light when the SB-600 is used as a wireless remote flash unit. 7 Wide-area AF-assist illuminator (p. 51) 1 Built-in wide-flash adapter (p. 76) Increases the angle of coverage to match a 14 mm lens. 2 Flash head (p. 74) Can be tilted from 0° to 90° and rotated horizontally 180° to the left and 90° to the right. 3 Flash head tilting/rotating lockrelease button (p. 22) 4 Battery chamber lid open-close index (p. 18) 5 Battery chamber lid (p. 18) Automatically turns on for autofocus operation when the light is dim. 8 Light sensor window for wireless remote flash (p. 60) 9 External AF-assist illuminator contacts Accepts optional TTL Remote Cord SC-29 10 Mount pin 11 Hot-shoe contacts 12 Mounting foot 10 13 14 15 16 17 18 13 Flash head tilting-angle scale (p. 74) 14 Flash head rotating-angle scale (p. 74) 15 LCD panel (p. 14) 16 Ready-light Lights up when the SB-600 is fully recycled and ready to fire. Blinks after the SB-600 fires at its maximum output in the TTL auto flash mode, indicating that the light may be insufficient. 17 Control buttons (p. 12) 18 Mounting-foot lock lever (p. 22) 11 Preparation Control buttons FLASH button Press to test fire the flash (p. 20). ZOOM button Press to change the zoom-head position (p. 40). · Press to adjust the settings in the Custom Settings mode (p. 53). ON/OFF button Press for approx. 0.3 second to turn the power on or off. Press to increase or decrease the values. · Press to choose the desired settings in the Custom Settings mode (p. 53). · Press to adjust the settings when setting the remote flash unit (p. 63). i button/j button a button Press to set the flash mode (p. 26). · Press to adjust the settings in the Custom Settings mode (p. 53). · Press to choose the desired settings when setting the remote flash unit (p. 63). Two-button control function Press two buttons simultaneously to perform the following operations. Follow the procedures shown on the flash unit. ZOOM MODE MODE MODE ZOOM Recalling the underexposure value in the TTL auto flash mode Press the s and a buttons simultaneously to recall the underexposure value (p. 29). Resetting the settings to default values Press the a and b buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 seconds to reset all settings, including the custom settings, to their default settings. Button lock Press the a and j buttons simultaneously for approx. 1 second to lock the functions of the control buttons (except the b and FLASH buttons) to avoid accidental malfunction. Press the buttons again to release the lock. Switching to Custom Settings Press the s and j buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 seconds to enter the Custom Settings mode (p. 53). 12 Easy setting for the optimum TTL auto flash mode Press the a and b buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 seconds to reset all settings, including the custom settings, to their default settings. Preparation Press these buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 seconds. While the SB-600 is used with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS and cameras in Groups I to II in combination with a CPU lens, the optimum TTL auto flash mode available with that combination will be performed when you set the camera's exposure mode to Programmed Auto (P), and turn on the SB-600 to execute "Resetting the settings to default values." 13 LCD panel For reference, all indications are displayed in the illustration. 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 Flash mode (p. 26) 2 Wireless remote flash (p. 62) In the wireless multiple flash mode, the SB-600 is set as a remote flash unit, which fires in sync with the master flash unit. 3 Sound monitor (p. 67) When the SB-600 is set as a remote flash unit, you can monitor its operation by listening to the beeping sound. 4 Compatible with CLS* (p. 5) The SB-600 is connected to cameras compatible with CLS*. 5 Zoom-head position (p. 40) 6 Channel (p. 63) Represents the communication channel number through which the master and remote flash units exchange data in the Advanced Wireless Lighting mode. 7 Auto FP High-Speed Sync (p. 48) The SB-600 automatically fires at faster shutter speeds exceeding the camera's sync shutter speed. 8 Flash output level (p. 34) 9 Flash output-level compensation (p. 44) (p. 29) 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 10 Underexposure in TTL auto flash 11 Flash output-level compensation value (p. 44) Underexposure value in TTL auto flash (p. 29) Indicates the underexposure value, showing that the light might be insufficient in the TTL auto flash mode. Flash output level in Manual flash (p. 34) 12 Group (p. 63) Represents the group of each remote flash unit in the Advanced Wireless Lighting mode. 13 Control buttons being locked (p. 12) Control buttons (except the ON/OFF and FLASH buttons) are locked. 14 Red-eye reduction (p. 46) 15 AF assist illuminator (p. 51) 16 LCD panel illuminator (p. 15) Pressing any control button turns on the LCD panel illuminator. 17 Standby function (p. 21) 14 Characteristics of the LCD panel Preparation · Due to the directional characteristics of LCDs, the display is difficult to read when viewed from above. However, the display can be seen clearly from a slightly lower angle. · The LCD display becomes darker at high temperatures (approx. 60°C/140°F), but returns to normal at normal temperatures (20°C/68°F). · The LCD's response time decreases at low temperatures (approx. 5°C/41°F and below), but returns to normal at normal temperatures (20°C/68°F). u Using the SB-600 in dim light Press any button on the SB-600 to turn the illuminator on (when the SB-600 power is on), and it will remain lit for 16 seconds. · To cancel the LCD panel illumination, go to the Custom Settings mode (p. 53) and set it to OFF. · Even if the LCD panel illuminator is set to OFF, the SB-600's LCD panel illuminator turns on when the camera's LCD panel illuminator is turned on. The LCD panel illuminator also lights up when the Custom Settings mode is displayed. * CLS: Nikon Creative Lighting System (p. 5) 15 Lenses In this manual, Nikkor lenses are divided into two types: CPU Nikkor lenses and non-CPU Nikkor lenses. CPU Nikkor lenses G-type Nikkor, D-type Nikkor, Non-G/D-type AF Nikkor (except for AF Nikkor for the F3AF), AI-P Nikkor Non-CPU Nikkor lenses AI-S Nikkor, AI Nikkor, Series E, etc. CPU lenses CPU lenses have CPU contacts. G-type Nikkor lenses G-type Nikkor lenses send distance information to the camera body, but do not have an aperture ring. Therefore, set the aperture on the camera body. With some cameras, the usable exposure mode is limited. For more details, refer to the lens instruction manual. D-type Nikkor lenses D-type Nikkor lenses send distance information to the camera body. Set the aperture either on the lens aperture ring or on the camera body. For more details, refer to the lens instruction manual. 16 Basic operation In this section, basic procedures are illustrated so that you can easily perform flash photography in the TTL auto flash mode. You can easily perform flash photography by following Steps 1-6 on the left-hand pages. The procedures are based on the use of a CPU lens mounted on cameras compatible with CLS*, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS*, and cameras in Groups I to II. The SB-600's functions and the LCD display vary depending on the camera/lens combination used. * CLS: Nikon Creative Lighting System (p. 5) 1 Installing the batteries 1 Slide the battery chamber lid in the direction of the arrow to open. 2 Install the batteries following the i and j marks as shown. Close the battery chamber lid by sliding it into place while pressing down. v Usable batteries Install four AA-type penlight batteries (1.5 V or lower) of any of these types: (1) Alkaline-manganese (1.5 V) (2) Lithium (1.5 V) (3) Nickel (1.5 V) (4) NiCd (rechargeable, 1.2 V) (5) Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) (rechargeable, 1.2 V) · · · · When replacing batteries, replace all four with fresh ones of the same brand. High-power manganese batteries are not recommended for use with the SB-600. Always carry extra batteries when travelling. For details on batteries, refer to "Notes on handling batteries" (p. 86). CAUTION! · Do not use batteries not specified in this instruction manual, as this may cause them to explode, leak corrosive liquids or catch on fire. · Do not mix battery brands or types, or use old with new batteries, as they might explode, leak corrosive liquids or catch on fire. · Do not place non-rechargeable batteries in a battery charger, as this might cause them to leak corrosive liquids or generate heat. 18 The following data are based on a situation in which four fresh batteries of the same type are used and the Speedlight fires at M1/1 output. Batteries Alkaline-manganese Lithium Nickel NiCd (1000 mAh) (rechargeable) Ni-MH (2000 mA) (rechargeable) Min. recycling time (approx.)* 3.5 sec. 4.0 sec. 2.5 sec. 2.9 sec. 2.5 sec. Min. number of flashes/ recycling time* 200/3.5-30 sec. 400/4.0-30 sec. 180/2.5-30 sec. 90/2.9-30 sec. 220/2.5-30 sec. * With fresh batteries · These data were measured without using the wide-area AF-assist illuminator, zoom-head position adjustment or LCD panel illumination. · The above data may vary due to variations in battery performance. Replacing/recharging the batteries Refer to the following table to determine when to replace or recharge your batteries, if the ready-light takes a long time to come on. Type of battery Alkaline-manganese Lithium Nickel NiCd (rechargeable) Ni-MH (rechargeable) Recycling time More than 30 seconds More than 10 seconds More than 10 seconds More than 10 seconds Recharge Replace Remedy 19 Basic operation Minimum number of flashes and recycling times 2 Test firing (Confirming the exposure) 1 Press the b button for approx. 0.3 second to turn on the SB-600. Make sure the ready-light comes on. 2 Press the h button to test fire the flash. Test firing CAUTION! Do not test fire the Speedlight near your eyes. · The SB-600 fires at specified output in the Manual flash mode or at approx. 1/16 output in the TTL auto flash mode. b button Pressing the b button for approx. 0.3 second turns on the SB-600 and the indications appear on the LCD panel. Pressing the button again turns off the SB-600 and the indications disappear. 20 t Standby function to conserve battery power If the SB-600 and camera are not being used, the standby function will automatically activate after 40 seconds, switching the SB-600 to standby mode to conserve battery power. · In the standby mode, the R indicator appears on the LCD panel. · When used with a camera body that is compatible with the TTL auto flash mode (p. 8), the SB-600 will automatically turn off after the camera's exposure meter is switched off. · When in standby mode, the SB-600 turns back on again when its b or h button is pressed or the shutter release button is lightly pressed (when using a camera body that is compatible with the TTL auto flash mode) (p. 8). · The standby function does not work in the wireless flash mode, regardless of the SB-600's setting, when the Speedlight is used as a remote flash unit (p. 59). · If, due to battery exhaustion, the ready-light does not come on within 60 seconds of turning on the power or after the flash has fired, the following indicator appears on the LCD panel and the SB-600 enters standby mode regardless of its setting. In this case, replace or recharge your batteries. · To avoid accidental firing or a malfunction when carrying the SB-600 in your camera bag, press the b button to turn off the flash unit, and make sure the R indicator disappears. Setting the standby function Set the standby function in the Custom Settings mode (p. 53). 21 Basic operation 3 Attach the SB-600 to the camera and adjust 1 Make sure the SB-600 and camera body are turned off. 2 Rotate the mounting-foot lock lever to the left, slide the SB-600's mounting foot into the camera's accessory shoe and turn the lock lever to the right. 3 Hold down the flash head tilting/rotating lock-release button to adjust the flash head to the horizontal/front position. 4 Turn on the SB-600 and the camera body. · The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted according to the lens focal length when the SB-600 is used with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Groups I to II in combination with a CPU lens, and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL. · When the SB-600 is used with cameras other than those listed above, or you want to adjust the zoom-head position manually, refer to "Setting the zoom-head position" (p. 40). 22 the flash head. v Turn the mounting-foot lock lever securely until it stops. To lock the Speedlight in place, turn the lock lever approx. 90° clockwise until it stops. To unlock, turn the lever counter-clockwise until it stops. Basic operation Lock Unlock t Digital data communication with the SB-600 Digital data communication is performed when the SB-600 is used with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS and cameras in Groups I to II. With a CPU lens, data such as focal length are automatically transferred to the SB-600. 23 4 Setting the camera's exposure mode and 1 Set the camera's exposure mode to Programmed Auto (P). · If Programmed Auto (P) cannot be set, select another exposure mode. See the opposite page. 2 Set the camera's metering system to Matrix Metering Y. · If Matrix Metering Y cannot be set, select Center-Weighted Metering W. t Exposure mode and metering system The camera's available exposure mode and metering system vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the SB-600's flash modes. For details, refer to "Detailed operation" (p. 31), "TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-600" (p. 80) and your camera's instruction manual. · In the Programmed Auto (P) mode, the shutter speed is automatically set to the camera's sync shutter speed. 24 metering system u Exposure modes other than Programmed Auto exposure (P) In Shutter-Priority Auto exposure (S) mode By selecting a slower shutter speed, the proper exposure for the background can be achieved. · The camera selects the correct aperture. For details, see your camera's instruction manual. However, set the shutter speed on the camera after confirming that the automatically controlled aperture will provide an appropriate shooting distance range for your subject. Refer to "Flash shooting distance range in the TTL auto flash mode" (p. 27). · If you set a shutter speed faster than the flash sync speed, the camera automatically shifts to its fastest sync speed when the SB-600 is turned on (except in the Auto FP High-Speed sync mode) (p. 48). In Aperture-Priority Auto exposure (A) mode By selecting the aperture, you can control depth of field and the flash shooting distance range. · The camera selects the correct shutter speed. For details, see your camera's instruction manual. · To determine the aperture, refer to the "Guide number" (p. 35) and "Flash shooting distance range in the TTL auto flash mode" (p. 27). In Manual exposure (M) mode By selecting the shutter speed and aperture, you can control the exposure of the background, the depth of field and the flash shooting distance range. · If you set a shutter speed faster than the flash sync speed, the camera automatically shifts to its fastest sync speed when the SB-600 is turned on. This is true of all cameras, except mechanical shutter cameras and when using the Auto FP High-Speed sync mode (p. 48). · To determine the aperture, refer to "Guide number" (p. 35) and "Flash shooting distance range in the TTL auto flash mode" (p. 27). 25 Basic operation 5 Setting the SB-600's flash mode 1 Press the a button to set the flash mode. · Display Do on the LCD panel. Selecting the flash mode The available flash mode changes each time the a button is pressed. i-TTL Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash (Monitor Preflashes are fired) Standard i-TTL flash (Monitor Preflashes are fired) Manual flash a a · The information above appears on the LCD panel when the SB-600 is used with digital SLR cameras compatible with CLS. · Note that when pressing the a button, only the usable flash modes appear; unavailable modes will be skipped. · The SB-600's available flash modes vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the camera's exposure mode and metering system. Refer to "Detailed operation" (p. 31), "TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-600" (p. 80) and your camera's instruction manual. 26 The SB-600's flash shooting distance range is 0.6 m to 20 m (2 to 66 ft.) and varies, depending on the ISO sensitivity, zoom-head position and lens aperture in use. Flash shooting distance range in the TTL auto flash mode ISO sensitivity Zoom-head position (mm) 1600 800 400 200 100 50 25 *2 2.8 4 5.6 8 Aperture 14*1 24 28 35 50 70 85 2 2.8 4 5.6 8 1.4 2 2.8 4 5.6 8 1.4 2 2.8 4 5.6 8 1.4 2 2.8 4 5.6 8 1.4 2 2.8 4 5.6 8 1.4 2 2.8 4 5.6 8 0.9-9.8/ 3.0-32 0.7-7.0/ 2.3-23 0.6-4.9/ 2.0-16 0.6-3.5/ 2.0-11 0.6-2.4/ 2.0-7.9 0.6-1.7/ 2.0-5.6 0.6-1.2/ 2.0-3.9 0.6-0.8/ 2.0-2.6 1.5-16/ 4.9-52 1.1-11/ 3.6-36 0.8-8.1/ 2.6-27 0.6-5.7/ 2.0-19 0.6-4.0/ 2.0-13 0.6-2.8/ 2.0-9.2 0.6-2.0/ 2.0-6.6 0.6-1.4/ 2.0-4.6 0.6-1.0/ 2.0-3.3 0.6-0.7/ 2.0-2.3 1.6-17/ 5.2-56 1.2-12/ 3.9-39 0.8-8.8/ 2.6-29 0.6-6.2/ 2.0-20 0.6-4.4/ 2.0-14 0.6-3.1/ 2.0-10 0.6-2.2/ 2.0-7.2 0.6-1.5/ 2.0-4.9 0.6-1.1/ 2.0-3.6 0.6-0.7/ 2.0-2.3 1.8-19/ 5.9-62 1.3-14/ 4.3-46 0.9-9.8/ 3.0-32 0.7-7.0/ 2.3-23 0.6-4.9/ 2.0-16 0.6-3.5/ 2.0-11 0.6-2.4/ 2.0-7.9 0.6-1.7/ 2.0-5.6 0.6-1.2/ 2.0-3.9 0.6-0.8/ 2.0-2.6 2.0-20/ 3.3-66 1.5-16/ 4.9-52 1.0-11/ 3.3-36 0.8-8.0/ 2.6-26 0.6-5.6/ 2.0-18 0.6-4.0/ 2.0-13 0.6-2.8/ 2.0-9.2 0.6-2.0/ 2.0-6.6 0.6-1.4/ 2.0-4.6 0.6-1.0/ 2.6-3.3 2.3-20/ 7.5-66 1.6-18/ 5.2-59 1.2-12/ 3.9-39 0.8-9.0/ 2.6-30 0.6-6.3/ 2.0-21 0.6-4.5/ 2.0-15 0.6-3.1/ 2.0-10 0.6-2.2/ 2.0-7.2 0.6-1.5/ 2.0-4.9 0.6-1.1/ 2.0-3.6 2.5-20/ 8.2-66 1.8-20/ 5.9-66 1.2-14/ 3.9-44 0.9-10/ 2.9-33 0.7-7.0/ 2.3-23 0.6-5.0/ 2.0-16 0.6-3.5/ 2.0-11 0.6-2.5/ 2.0-8.2 0.6-1.7/ 2.0-5.6 0.6-1.2/ 2.6-3.9 Flash shooting distance range (m/ft.) 11 16*3 11 22 16 11 32 22 16 11 32 22 16 11 32 22 16 11 32 22 16 11 32 22 16 *1 With the wide-flash adapter in place *2 TTL auto flash operation is not possible at this ISO sensitivity. For ISO 1000, use an aperture 2/3 of an f/stop smaller than the aperture for ISO 1600, or 1/3 larger than the aperture for ISO 800. *3 Programmed TTL Auto Flash with the F-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004, and F-301/N2000. (ISO 25 to ISO 400 for the F-401s/N4004s and F-401/N4004) t ISO sensitivity The sensitivity of digital SLRs and the film speed for film-based cameras are referred to as ISO sensitivity in this manual. 27 Basic operation About the flash shooting distance range 6 Compose the picture and shoot with flash 1 Confirm the camera's sync mode. · For normal flash photography, use the camera's front-curtain sync mode. 2 Compose the picture, confirm that the ready-light on the SB-600 or in the camera's viewfinder is on, then shoot. v Set the camera's flash sync mode to front-curtain sync. With cameras featuring a rear-curtain sync flash mode, make sure the camera's flash sync mode is set to front-curtain sync. · For other flash sync modes, refer to "Slow-sync flash" (p. 46), "Red-eye reduction with slow-sync flash mode" (p. 46), or "Rear-curtain sync" (p. 47). · Refer to the camera's instruction manual for details on the flash sync mode. 28 v If the ready-light blinks after shooting, the light might be insufficient for correct exposure. When the flash has fired at its maximum output in the TTL auto flash mode and underexposure possibly occurred, the ready-lights on the SB-600 and in the camera's viewfinder blink for approx. 3 seconds. Depending on the camera in use, the ready-light on the SB-600 or in the camera's viewfinder lights up. To compensate, use a wider aperture after setting the camera's exposure mode to Aperture-Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M), or move closer to the subject and reshoot. Display of the amount of underexposure The amount of underexposure (0 to ­3.0 EV) appears for approx. 3 seconds on the SB-600's LCD panel when used with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Group I and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL in the TTL auto flash mode. The above ready-lights will also blink at the same time. · Pressing the s and a buttons simultaneously recalls this display. 29 Basic operation Using the SB-600 with the COOLPIX For COOLPIX cameras, such as the COOLPIX 8800 and 4500, that have an accessory shoe (hot-shoe) or TTL multiple flash terminal: When more powerful illumination is required or when performing multiple flash, it is recommended to connect the SB-600 or another Nikon Speedlight compatible with TTL auto flash to the COOLPIX. Auto flash operation is possible by setting the SB-600's flash mode to TTL auto flash. The flash output level is controlled by detecting signals from the camera to determine when to start and stop firing. This is controlled by Standard i-TTL flash operation with COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL and by Non-TTL operation with other COOLPIX cameras. · For connection to COOLPIX cameras with hot-shoe contacts, such as the COOLPIX 8800, attach the Speedlight directly to the accessory shoe. · Optional accessories such as the Multi-Flash Bracket Unit SK-E900 should be used for connection with COOLPIX cameras that have a TTL multiple flash terminal but no hot-shoe contacts. · For details, see your camera's instruction manual. Please note that wireless multiple flash using the COOLPIX's built-in flash as a master flash unit and the SB-600 as a remote flash unit cannot be performed. 30 Detailed operation This section provides a variety of flash modes available with the SB-600. Be sure to refer to your camera's instruction manual for specific information on camera settings and functions. SB-600's available flash modes The SB-600's available flash modes vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the camera's exposure mode. Using the TTL auto flash mode is recommended for normal flash photography. Available flash modes and usable cameras Available flash mode i-TTL mode D-TTL mode TTL auto flash mode TTL (film-based) mode Usable cameras Cameras compatible with CLS, COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL Digital SLRs not compatible with CLS Cameras (film-based) in Groups I to VI (No o appears with cameras in Groups III and IV while performing Balanced Fill-Flash) No limitation Manual mode Manual flash u Monitor Preflashes The SB-600 fires a series of imperceptible Monitor Preflashes just before the flash fires so that the camera can obtain necessary information on the subject. This applies to situations when the SB-600 is used with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Group I with a CPU lens, and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL, and flash mode is set to TTL auto flash. · Monitor Preflashes are fired instantaneously and cannot be differentiated from the main flash. · When Monitor Preflashes are fired, H appears on the LCD panel (when using a single flash unit). For cameras in Group I, however, Monitor Preflashes are not fired when the SB-600's flash head is adjusted to other than the horizontal/front position or the camera's flash sync mode is set to rear-curtain sync, even when H appears on the LCD panel. 32 TTL auto flash mode TTL auto flash mode: D In this mode, the flash illumination that is reflected back from the subject is detected by the camera's TTL auto flash sensor and the camera automatically controls the flash output level to give the correct exposure. Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash: Do Press the a button to display Do on the LCD panel, and Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash is performed. The flash output level is automatically adjusted for a well-balanced exposure of the main subject and background. When performing Balanced Fill-Flash, however, no o appears with cameras in Groups III and IV. · Do indicates "i-TTL Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash" in the i-TTL mode. Standard TTL flash: D Press the a button to display D on the LCD panel, and Standard TTL flash is performed. The main subject is correctly exposed regardless of the background brightness. This is useful when you want to highlight the main subject. · D indicates "Standard i-TTL flash" in the i-TTL mode, "Standard TTL flash for Digital SLRs" in the D-TTL mode, and "Standard TTL flash" in the TTL (film-based) mode. t Notes on TTL mode indicators Comparison tables are provided on pages 80-82 to show the SB-600's TTL mode indicators and the corresponding ones used in the instruction manuals of Speedlights featuring no CLS. · For details on shooting procedures in the TTL auto flash mode, refer to "Basic operation" (p. 17). 33 Detailed operation Manual mode Manual mode In Manual flash photography, you select the aperture and flash output level. This allows you to control the exposure and flash shooting distance when the correct exposure is difficult to obtain in the TTL auto flash mode. The flash output level can be set from M1/1 (full output) to M1/64 to suit your creative preferences. You can calculate the correct aperture by using the guide number table and the shooting distance. Then, set the same aperture manually on the lens. In this case, set the camera's exposure mode to Aperture-Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). · No limitation on usable cameras. · Refer to your camera's instruction manual for details on camera and lens aperture settings. · The shutter might not be released if the camera's exposure mode is at a setting other than Aperture-Priority (A) or Manual (M) and the SB-600 is in Manual mode, depending on the camera in use. For details, refer to your camera's instruction manual. · In the Manual mode, there is no warning ready-light to indicate that the light may have been insufficient to obtain a correct exposure. LCD panel in the Manual mode Manual flash Flash output level in Manual flash Represents the flash output level in fractions and decimal places. LCD panel when a camera compatible with CLS is used. Determining the aperture, flash output level and shooting distance in the Manual mode In the Manual mode, use the guide number table and the following equation to calculate the aperture, flash output level and shooting distance to obtain the correct exposure. · The guide number (GN at ISO 100; m/ft) indicates the amount of light generated by the flash. The larger the number, the greater the flash output. 34 Guide number (ISO 100, m/ft) Flash output level M1/1 M1/2 M1/4 M1/8 M1/16 M1/32 M1/64 Zoom-head position (mm) 14* 14.0/45.9 9.9/32.5 7.0/23.0 4.9/16.1 3.5/11.5 2.5/8.2 1.8/5.9 24 26.0/85.3 18.4/60.4 13.0/42.7 9.2/30.2 6.5/21.3 4.6/15.1 3.3/10.8 28 28.0/91.9 19.8/65.0 14.0/45.9 9.9/32.5 7.0/23.0 4.9/16.1 3.5/11.5 35 30.0/98.4 21.2/69.6 15.0/49.2 10.6/34.8 7.5/24.6 5.3/17.4 3.8/12.5 50 36.0/118.1 25.5/83.7 18.0/59.1 12.7/41.7 9.0/29.5 6.4/21.0 4.5/14.8 70 38.0/124.7 26.9/88.3 19.0/62.3 13.4/44.0 9.5/31.2 6.7/22.0 4.8/15.7 85 40.0/131.2 20.0/65.6 14.1/46.3 10.0/32.8 7.1/23.3 5.0/16.4 * With the wide-flash adapter in place ISO sensitivity factors For sensitivities other than ISO 100, multiply the guide number by the factors shown in the table below. ISO Factors 25 x0.5 50 x0.71 100 x1 200 x1.4 400 x2 800 x2.8 1600 x4 To calculate the correct aperture Calculate the correct aperture by using this equation and the guide number table, according to the ISO sensitivity, shooting distance, flash output level and zoom-head position that are set: f/stop (aperture) = Guide number (GN at ISO 100; m/ft.) × ISO sensitivity factor ÷ Shooting distance (m/ft) For example, for the ISO sensitivity of 400 (or ISO sensitivity factor: 2), with the zoom-head position adjusted to 28mm, and the flash output level set to M1/1: · Referring to the guide number table, determine the guide number as 28/91.9 (m/ft.). When the shooting distance is 3.5m (11.5 ft.), the correct aperture value is: 28/91.9 (GN at ISO 100, m/ft) × 2 (ISO sensitivity factor for ISO 400) ÷ 3.5/11.5 (shooting distance; m/ft.) = 16 (aperture) · Set the aperture value 16 on both the SB-600 and the camera or lens. To obtain the correct flash output level Calculate the guide number (GN at ISO 100; m/ft.) by using this equation, according to the shooting distance and aperture required. Guide number (GN at ISO 100; m/ft.) = Shooting distance (m/ft) × Aperture (f/) ÷ ISO sensitivity factor Referring to the guide number table, determine an appropriate flash output level corresponding to the guide number obtained above, then set the same value on the SB-600. For example, for the ISO sensitivity of 400 (or ISO sensitivity factor: 2) and the shooting distance of 3.5m (11.5 ft) with an aperture of f/8: 3.5/11.5 (shooting distance; m/ft.) × 8 (aperture value) ÷ 2 (ISO sensitivity factor of ISO 400) = 14/45.9 (GN at ISO 100; m/ft.) 35 Detailed operation 28.3/92.8 Manual mode · When the zoom-head position is adjusted to 28mm, set M1/4 flash output level on the SB-600, which can be obtained from GN 14/45.9 (m/ft.) corresponding to the zoom-head position of 28mm referring to the guide number table. · In Distance-priority manual flash operation, the correct flash output level is automatically determined by the SB-600 according to the shooting distance, aperture and ISO sensitivity that are set. To calculate the shooting distance Calculate the shooting distance (m/ft.) by using this equation and the guide number table, according to the ISO sensitivity, aperture value, flash output level and zoom-head position that are set: Shooting distance (m/ft.) = Guide number (GN at ISO 100; m/ft.) × ISO sensitivity factor ÷ Aperture (f/) Manual G flash operation 1 Set the camera's exposure mode to AperturePriority Auto (A) or Manual (M). 2 Press the a button until G appears on the LCD panel. 3 Determine the flash output level and aperture to match the flash shooting distance. · For details on determining the flash output level and the aperture, refer to "Determining the aperture and flash output level in the Manual mode" (p. 35). 4 Press the i or j button to increase or decrease the values. · Refer to "Setting the flash output level" (p. 37). 5 Set the aperture on your camera or lens. 36 6 Confirm that the ready-light comes on, then shoot. Setting the flash output level The flash output level changes every time you press the j or i button, as shown below. When you press the j button: When you press the i button: · The numbers in parentheses represent the adjustable flash output level in 1/3 step except between 1/1 and 1/2. Therefore, 1/2 (-0.7) and 1/4 (+0.3) represent the same flash output level. The same flash output level · To extend the flash shooting distance, choose a flash output level close to M1/1. · The value can be quickly changed by continuously pressing the i or j button. · The decimal place blinks during adjustment. = 37 Detailed operation Notes on continuous flash shooting Do not exceed the maximum number of continuous firings You should allow the SB-600 to cool off for at least 10 minutes after the maximum number of continuous firings are performed as shown in the WARNING table below: Max. number of continuous firings Flash mode TTL auto flash Manual flash (Flash output level: M1/1, M1/2) Manual flash (Flash output level: M1/4 to M1/64) Max. number of continuous firings (at 6 frames/sec.) 15 40 Synchronization during continuous flash shooting The table below shows the maximum number of frames that can be taken during continuous flash shooting. If the number of continuous frames shot exceeds the value shown in the table, allow the SB-600 to cool off for at least 10 minutes. Maximum number of frames during continuous flash shooting (at six frames per sec.) Batteries Alkaline-manganese Lithium Nickel NiCd Ni-MH Up to 4 Up to 8 Up to 16 Up to 30 Flash output level 1/8 1/16 1/32 1/64 38 Other functions Detailed information on each function of the SB-600 is provided. Setting the zoom-head position The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted by the power zoom function. It can also be manually adjusted. · The guide number indicating flash output level varies according to the zoom-head position (p. 35). The power zoom function When the SB-600 is used with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, and cameras in Groups I to II in combination with a CPU lens, the power zoom function activates and the zoom head is automatically adjusted. · The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted to match focal lengths of 24mm, 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 70mm and 85mm when the power zoom function is activated. · When the lens focal length is not one of those indicated above, the zoom head adjusts to the closest wide-angle setting of the lens in use. For example, if the zoom setting of a CPU lens was between 36mm and 49mm, the zoom-head position would be adjusted to 35mm. · If a small M does not appear above the "ZOOM" indication on the LCD panel, the zoomhead position will be automatically adjusted. If a small M appears, keep pressing the s button until it disappears. Power zoom activated Power zoom canceled t When the SB-600 is used with COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted by the power zoom function. "AUTO" appears below the "ZOOM" indicator on the LCD panel. Indications when a COOLPIX camera compatible with i-TTL is used. 40 Setting the zoom-head position manually When the SB-600 is used with cameras in Groups III to VII in combination with a non-CPU lens, or you want to change the zoom-head position to one that does not match the focal length, you should adjust the zoom-head position manually by pressing the s button. · A small M above the "ZOOM" indication appears on the LCD panel while manually setting the zoom-head position. · Every time you press the s button, the zoom-head position changes as follows: · As a general rule, set the zoom-head position to the focal length of the lens in use or to the closest wide-angle setting. For example, select the 50mm setting when using a 60mm lens. t Canceling the power zoom function using Custom Settings The power zoom function can be canceled in the Custom Settings mode (p. 53). When the power zoom function is canceled, the zoom head can be manually adjusted, but the zoom-head position indicator does not change even if the lens is zoomed, a lens is changed or the ON/OFF button is pressed. · When the power zoom function is canceled, a small M always blinks on the LCD panel. · Every time you press the s button, the zoom-head position changes as follows: t Using the built-in wide-flash adapter Use the built-in wide-flash adapter when a 14mm to 23mm lens is mounted (p. 76). · When using the wide-flash adapter, the zoom-head position is automatically set to 14mm and the power zoom function is deactivated. · When using a 14mm or 17mm lens, the distance between the camera and subject generally differs greatly from the center of the frame to the periphery, so the peripheral area might not be sufficiently lit in some cases. 41 Other functions · When the camera/lens combination is compatible with the power zoom function, the zoom-head position changes as follows when a 35mm lens is attached: Exposure compensation and flash output-level Exposure compensation allows you to take well-balanced pictures by intentionally modifying the flash exposure. This is useful when a subject of extremely high or low reflectivity is included in the scene or when you want to create flash photographs to match your creative preferences. · Some plus compensation may be necessary when the background includes a mirror, white wall or other highly reflective surface. Likewise, some minus compensation may be required when the background is dark or includes subjects of low reflectivity. · Making exposure compensation for both the main subject and background, the main subject only without affecting the background, or the background only without affecting the main subject is possible, depending on the flash shooting situation. Exposure compensation on the SB-600 can be performed in these ways: Exposure compensation Making exposure compensation for both the main subject and background Making exposure compensation for the main subject only Available flash mode All flash modes Usable camera Cameras in all groups TTL auto flash mode Cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Groups I to III, and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL. Cameras in all groups Cameras in all groups Manual flash mode Making exposure compensation for the background only Flash shooting at slow shutter speeds Making exposure compensation for both the main subject and background In the TTL auto flash mode Use the camera's exposure compensation function to modify both the SB-600's flash output level and the background exposure. For details, see your camera's instruction manual. · The exposure compensation value set on the camera is not displayed on the SB-600's LCD panel. · Exposure compensation beyond the usable ISO sensitivity range cannot be performed. For example, even if you tried to make an exposure compensation of +3 steps when using an ISO sensitivity of 100, which would change it to the equivalent of ISO 12, you would only be able to compensate a maximum of +2 steps (ISO 25) because the usable sensitivity range is ISO 25-1000. 42 compensation Making exposure compensation in the Manual flash mode Exposure compensation is performed by intentionally modifying the correct aperture. · Use the guide number and shooting distance to calculate which aperture to use for the correct exposure (p. 35). Then, use a larger or smaller aperture on the camera to make exposure compensation. · As a basic guide, set a wider aperture on the camera or lens to make the main subject brighter or a smaller aperture to make it darker. Making exposure compensation for the main subject only Other functions In the TTL auto flash mode Adjusting the SB-600's flash output level to shoot a flash-illuminated main subject without affecting the background exposure is known as flash outputlevel compensation (p. 44). · This compensation can only be performed with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Groups I to III, and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL. In the Manual flash mode Making exposure compensation for only the flash-illuminated subject by intentionally modifying the SB-600's flash output level (M1/1 to M1/64). · For cameras in all groups Making exposure compensation for the background only Set the camera's exposure mode to Shutter-Priority Auto (S) or Manual (M), and set the shutter speed to one slower than its flash sync shutter speed. · With cameras providing slow-sync, set the camera's flash sync mode to Slow-sync (p. 46) to bring out background details in low-light situations. · For details, see your camera's instruction manual. 43 Exposure compensation and flash output-level compensation Flash output-level compensation You can make exposure compensation for the flash-illuminated subject without affecting the background exposure by modifying the SB-600's flash output level. · Available in the TTL auto flash mode. · Flash output level compensation is only available with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Groups I to III, and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL. · With F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 cameras, make flash output-level compensation on the camera. Flash output-level compensation cannot be made on the SB-600. The amount of compensation set on the camera does not appear on the SB-600's LCD panel. For details, see your camera instruction manual. · With SLR cameras that have a built-in Speedlight with an exposure compensation function, you can compensate the flash output level on either the camera or the SB-600. For details, see your camera instruction manual. If you use both controls, the exposure is modified by the sum total of both compensation values. In this case, the SB-600's LCD panel shows only the compensation value set on the SB-600. 1 Press the i or j button to display the flash output-level compensation. The flash output-level compensation value blinks. 2 Press the i or j button to increase or decrease the compensation in 1/3 steps from ­3.0 to +3.0 EV. · The value can be quickly changed by continuously pressing the i or j button. v Canceling flash output-level compensation