En Autofocus Speedlight SB-800 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 · Icons on the LCD panel.................................................13-15 · Lenses.................................................................................16 · Basic operation .................................................................17 1 Installing the batteries ..................................................18-19 2 Test firing (Confirming the exposure) ...........................20-21 3 Attach the SB-800 to the camera and adjust the flash head ............................................................22-23 4 Setting the ISO sensitivity .............................................24-25 5 Adjust the zoom-head position.....................................26-27 6 Setting the camera's exposure mode and metering system.........................................................28-29 7 Setting the SB-800's flash mode ..................................30-31 8 Compose the picture and shoot with flash...................32-33 Using the SB-800 with the COOLPIX ....................................34 · Detailed operation.............................................................35 · · · · · · SB-800's available flash modes ..........................................36 TTL auto flash mode ...........................................................37 Non-TTL auto flash mode ..............................................38-41 Manual mode .................................................................42-50 Notes on continuous flash shooting....................................51 Checking the correct exposure before shooting ................52 · Other functions .................................................................53 · Exposure compensation and flash output level compensation ..............................................................54-56 · Flash-shooting distance range with zoom lenses having a variable aperture ...............................................57 · Slow-sync flash mode, Red-eye reduction control, and Rear-curtain sync .................................................58-59 1 Contents Auto FP High-Speed Sync mode........................................60 Flash Value Lock (FV Lock) ................................................61 Autofocus flash operation in dim light ...........................62-63 Using the Quick Recycling Battery Pack SD-800 .........64-65 Checking the illumination before actually taking the picture (Modeling illuminator)..........................66 · Custom functions ................................................................67 · Custom settings .............................................................68-70 · · · · · · Advanced operations........................................................71 Overview of multiple flash operation .............................72-73 Wireless multiple flash shooting ....................................74-75 Flash shooting in Advanced Wireless Lighting .............76-83 SU-4 type wireless multiple flash shooting....................84-88 Confirming wireless multiple flash operation using the ready-light or the beeping sound.....................89 · Multiple flash shooting using cords ...............................90-93 · System chart for TTL multiple flash shooting using cords..................................................................94-95 · Flash shooting with digital SLRs cameras using colored gel filters...............................................96-97 · Bounce flash operation................................................98-101 · Close-up flash operation............................................102-105 Flash shooting in the 1/300 TTL High-Speed Flash sync mode (F5 only) .............................................106 · · · · · · Reference information ....................................................107 · TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-800 .......................................................108-110 · Optional accessories .................................................111-113 · Tips on Speedlight care....................................................114 · Notes on batteries.............................................................115 · Troubleshooting..........................................................116-118 · About the LCD panel ........................................................119 · Specifications.............................................................120-123 · Index ..........................................................................124-125 2 Preparation This section provides preliminary information on using the SB-800. 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-800 are explained. Other functions Detailed information on each function of the SB-800 is provided. Advanced operations Information on advanced flash shooting techniques using the SB-800 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-800. 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-800's flashshooting capabilities with example photos. In addition, keep your camera instruction manual handy for quick reference. Main features and functions of the SB-800 · The SB-800 is a high-performance Speedlight with a guide number of 38/125 (ISO 100, m/ft.) or 53/174 (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-800, you can perform various types of TTL auto flash (p. 37), Non-TTL auto flash (p. 38), and Manual flash (p. 42). · 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. 26). When the built-in wide-flash adapter is used or the Nikon Diffusion Dome is attached (p. 27), the zoom-head position is automatically set to match a 14mm or 17mm lens. · The flash head tilts up to 90° or down to ­7° and rotates horizontally 180° to the left and 90° to the right, enabling bounce flash (p. 98) or close-up flash photography (p. 102). · The Nikon Creative Lighting System provides a variety of advanced wireless multiple flash operations when the SB-800 is used with compatible cameras (p. 5). · When doing bounce flash or taking close-ups with flash, you can use the built-in wide-flash adapter in conjunction with Nikon Diffusion Dome to create extremely soft, diffused lighting with virtually no shadows, while maintaining balanced lighting for the main subject and the background (pp. 101, 104). · Custom functions are provided to set values, or activate or cancel functions that are unnecessary to set each time (p. 67). 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 may be available from the Nikon representative in your area. See the URL below for contact information: http://nikonimaging.com/ 4 Nikon Creative Lighting System Preparation The SB-800 features the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS). This system offers additional flash shooting possibilities with digital cameras by taking advantage of camera's digital communication capabilities. CLS is available only when the SB-800 is used with compatible Nikon cameras. The SB-800 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. 37). · Advanced Wireless Lighting With the 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 (p. 76). · Flash Value Lock Flash Value, or "FV," is the amount of flash exposure for the subject. Using FV Lock with compatible cameras, you can lock in the appropriate flash exposure for the main subject. This flash exposure is locked in, even if you change the aperture or composition, or zoom the lens in and out (p. 61). · Flash Color Information Communication When the SB-800 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-800. · 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. 60). · Wide-Area AF-Assist Illuminator In autofocus operation, the SB-800 emits AF-Assist illumination over a wider area. This enables you to perform autofocus photography in dim light even when you change the camera's focus area with cameras supporting this function (p. 62). 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-800. · u: Provides convenient reference information when using the SB-800 · Supplied accessories Quick Recycling Battery Pack SD-800 Speedlight Stand AS-19 Nikon Diffusion Dome SW-10H Colored Gel Filter Set SJ-800: FL-G1, TN-A1 Soft Case SS-800 6 Tips on using the Speedlight Take trial shots Preparation Make 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-800'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-800's components. Nikon cannot guarantee the SB-800's performance when used with non-Nikon products. 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-800 with your particular camera. *CLS: Nikon Creative Lighting System (p. 5) TTL auto flash mode (p. 37) Group Camera name i-TTL D DDo D-TTL TTL *1 Cameras compatible with CLS* Digital SLRs not compatible with CLS* I 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, FG, Nikonos V, F3-Series (with the AS-17) New FM2, FM10, FE10, F3-Series, F55-Series/N55-Series COOLPIX 8400, COOLPIX 8800, COOLPIX P5000 ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ II III IV V VI VII COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ *5 *5 ­ ­ ­ ­ *1 o: Balanced Fill-Flash. This always appears together with D (p. 37). *2 Wireless multiple flash in the i-TTL mode is possible. *3 TTL mode is not possible with digital SLR cameras. 8 : Available ­ : Not available Non-TTL auto flash mode (p. 38) Manual mode ( p. 42) Wireless multiple flash Advanced SU-4 type Wireless Lighting (master flash) (p. 84) (p. 76) B A p Distancepriority manual flash G Manual flash q Repeating flash Auto Non-TTL Aperture flash auto flash *2 *3 *4 ­ *3 ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ * 6 ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ ­ *4 Distance-priority manual flash p is not possible with D1X and D1H digital cameras. *5 While performing Balanced Fill-Flash, no o icon appears. *6 Repeating flash is not possible with the F3-Series (using the AS-17). Preparation The SB-800'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. 35), "TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-800" (p.108) and your camera's instruction manual. 9 Speedlight parts and their functions 7 8 1 2 9 10 3 4 11 12 13 14 15 9 Wide-area AF-assist illuminator (p. 62) 5 6 1 Control button quick reference (p. 12) 10 2 Flash head (p. 100) Can be tilted up to 90° or down to ­7°, and rotated horizontally 180° to the left and 90° to the right. 3 Flash head tilting/rotating lock release button (p. 22) 4 Light sensor window for wireless remote flash (p. 74) Setting the SB-800 as a remote flash unit (P. 76) 5 Battery chamber lid attachment indexes (p. 18) 6 Battery chamber lid (p. 18) 7 Built-in bounce card (p. 101) Creates a highlight in the subject's eyes in bounce flash photography. 8 Built-in wide-flash adapter (p. 104) Increases the angle of coverage to match a 14mm or 17mm lens. Automatically turns on for autofocus operation when the light is dim. 10 External power source terminal (supplied with cover) (p. 113) 11 Light sensor window for Non-TTL auto flash (p. 38) Senses reflected light from the subject in Auto Aperture B or Non-TTL auto A flash mode. 12 External AF-assist illuminator contacts (for SC-29) Accepts optional TTL Remote Cord SC-29 13 Mount pin 14 Hot-shoe contacts 15 Mounting foot 16 17 18 19 20 21 F LA SH REA DY 22 23 24 25 16 Flash head tilting angle scale (p. 100) 17 Modeling illuminator button (p. 66) Press to fire flash repeatedly to check the illumination and the shadows cast on the subject before taking pictures. Wireless remote flash cancel button (p. 75) The SB-800 will not fire, while this button is pressed. 18 Flash head rotating angle scale (p. 100) 21 Sync terminal (p. 93) Connects the SB-800 to the sync terminal of the remote flash unit(s) in other than TTL multiple flash operation using cords. 22 LCD panel (p. 119) 23 Control buttons (p. 12) 24 Ready-light Lights up when the SB-800 is fully recycled and ready to fire. Blinks after the SB-800 fires at its maximum output in various auto flash modes, indicating that the light may be insufficient. 25 Mounting foot lock lever (p. 22) 19 Terminal cover 20 TTL multiple flash terminal (p. 92) Connects the SB-800 to the remote flash unit(s) in TTL multiple flash operation using cords. 11 Preparation Control buttons e button/f button Press to increase or decrease the values of the highlighted items. b button Press for approx. 0.3 sec. to turn the power on and off. Multi Selector g button · Press to select the items to be set. The selected item is highlighted and can be changed using the e and f buttons. · Press for approx. 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode (p. 68). c button (wide)/d button (tele) Press to change the zoom-head position (p. 26). FLASH button Press to test fire the flash (p. 20). a button Press to set the flash mode (p. 30). Recalling the underexposure value in the TTL auto flash mode Press the a and g buttons simultaneously to recall the underexposure value (p. 33). Resetting the settings Press the a and b buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 sec. to reset all settings, including the custom settings (except the distance unit selected in m/ft) to their default values. Button lock Press the b and g buttons simultaneously to lock the functions of the control buttons (except the b, Modeling illuminator, and FLASH buttons) to avoid accidental malfunction. Press the buttons again to release the lock. Control button quick reference Procedures for Custom settings, recalling the underexposure value in the TTL auto flash mode, resetting all settings to their default values, and the button lock are shown in the Control button quick reference chart on the back of the built-in bounce card. 12 Icons on the LCD panel Icons on the LCD panel show the status of the operations set. These icons vary depending on the settings, the combination of camera/lens, and the exposure mode. Icons with a single flash unit Icons when a camera compatible with CLS* is used. Monitor Preflashes Just before the flash fires, the SB-800 fires a series of imperceptible preflashes that are detected by the camera's TTL Multi-Sensor and analyzed for brightness and contrast (p. 36). TTL mode Based on the exposure control information, the camera automatically controls the flash output level to give the correct exposure (p. 37). Balanced Fill-Flash This always appears together with D. Based on the exposure control information, the flash output level is automatically controlled for a well-balanced exposure of the main subject and background (p.37). Auto FP High-Speed Sync (CLS*) The SB-800 automatically fires at faster shutter speeds exceeding the camera's sync shutter speed (p. 60). *CLS: Nikon Creative Lighting System (p. 5) Auto Aperture flash In addition to Non-TTL auto A flash (see below), the SB-800's built-in sensor correctly controls the flash output in combination with data automatically transmitted from the camera and lens to the SB-800, including the ISO sensitivity, aperture, focal length, and exposure compensation value (p. 38). Non-TTL auto flash The SB-800's built-in sensor measures the flash illumination reflected back from the subject, controlling the SB-800's light output automatically to give the correct exposure (p. 40). Distance-priority manual flash Based on the ISO sensitivity value and aperture, the SB-800 controls the light output according to the distance value entered (p. 44). Manual flash The flash always fires at a specified output in combination with the aperture and light output level (p. 46). Repeating flash The SB-800 fires repeatedly during a single exposure, creating stroboscopic multipleexposure effects (p. 48). 13 Preparation Icons on the LCD panel Compatible with CLS (CLS*) The SB-800 is connected to cameras compatible with CLS* (p. 8). Power zoom function The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted to match the lens focal length (p. 26). Power zoom (auto) function The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted to match the lens focal length when the SB-800 is used with COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL (p. 26). Manual zoom-head position setting You can adjust the zoom-head position manually (p. 26). Canceling the power zoom function The power zoom is canceled, and the zoom-head position can only be adjusted manually (p. 26). Zoom-head position setting if the built-in wide-flash adapter is broken off accidentally The zoom-head position can be adjusted if the built-in wide-flash adapter is broken off accidentally (p. 117). ISO sensitivity Represents the ISO sensitivity value (p. 24). Flash output level compensation Represents the flash output level compensation value (p. 56). Underexposure Indicates the underexposure value, showing that the light might be insufficient in the TTL auto flash mode (p. 33). Standby duration Represents the time before the standby function is activated (p. 67). The wide-area AF-assist illuminator is activated The wide-area AF-assist illuminator comes on (p. 62). The wide-area AF-assist illuminator is canceled The wide-area AF-assist illuminator does not come on (p. 62). Flash firing canceled The SB-800 does not fire but the wide-area AF-assist illuminator still comes on (p. 62). Control buttons being locked Control buttons (except the ON/OFF, Modeling illuminator and FLASH buttons) are locked (p. 12). Red-eye reduction Red-eye reduction control is activated (p. 58). LCD panel illuminator Pressing any control button turns on the LCD panel illuminator (p. 119). Beyond the flash-shooting distance range The subject is beyond the flash shooting distance range. : the closest available distance, º: the farthest available distance (p. 30). 14 Icons with multiple flash units Preparation Icons in the Advanced Wireless Lighting mode Wireless master In the wireless multiple flash mode, the SB-800 is used as the master flash unit connected to the camera (p. 72). Wireless remote In the wireless multiple flash mode, the SB-800 is set as a remote flash unit, which fires in sync with the master flash unit (p. 72). Wireless remote In the wireless multiple flash mode, the SB-800 is set as a remote flash unit, which fires in sync with the master flash unit (p. 72). Sound monitor on When the SB-800 is set as a remote flash unit, you can monitor its operation by listening to the beeping sound (p. 89). Sound monitor canceled "Beeping" sound is off (p. 89). Master (CLS*) Represents the settings of the flash mode and flash output level compensation value of the master unit in the Advanced Wireless Lighting mode (p. 78). Group A (B, C) (CLS*) Represents the settings of the flash mode and flash output level compensation value of the remote flash unit(s) in Group A (B, C) in the Advanced Wireless Lighting mode (p. 78). (B,C) Channel (CLS*) Represents the communication channel number through which the master and remote flash units exchange data in the Advanced Wireless Lighting mode (p. 78). Highlighted items Highlighted items indicate that they can be set or changed. The highlighted items return to normal after 8 seconds unless an adjustment is made. *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 Non-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 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 1­8 on the left-hand pages. In this section, basic procedures are described when a CPU lens is mounted on cameras compatible with CLS*, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS*, and cameras in Groups I to II. The SB-800's available functions and the LCD display vary depending on other camera/lens combinations. *CLS: Nikon Creative Lighting System (p. 5) 1 Installing the batteries 1 Slide open the battery chamber lid in the direction of the arrow. 2 Install the batteries following the i and j marks as shown. Align the battery chamber lid attachment indexes, then close the battery chamber lid by sliding it into place while pressing down. v Usable batteries Install four AA-type penlight batteries (1.5V or lower) of any of these types: (1) Alkaline-manganese (1.5V) (2) Lithium (1.5V) (3) Nickel (1.5V) (4) NiCd (rechargeable, 1.2V) (5) Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) (rechargeable, 1.2V) · When replacing batteries, replace all four (or five when using the Quick Recycling Battery Pack SD-800) with fresh ones of the same brand. · High-power manganese batteries are not recommended for use with the SB-800. · Always carry extra batteries when traveling. · For details on batteries, refer to "Notes on batteries" on page 115. 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. Otherwise the batteries may explode, leak corrosive liquids, or catch on fire. · Do not recharge non-rechargeable batteries in a battery charger. Otherwise the batteries may leak corrosive liquids or generate heat. t Obtaining faster recycling times using 5 batteries Use the provided Quick Recycling Battery Pack SD-800 to install five batteries to shorten the recycling time. See page 64 for more details. 18 When using four (or five) fresh batteries of the same type and the Speedlight fires at M1/1 output. Batteries Alkalinemanganese Lithium Nickel NiCd (1000 mAh) (rechargeable) Ni-MH (2000 mA) (rechargeable) Number of batteries x4 x5 x4 x5 x4 x5 x4 x5 x4 x5 Min. recycling time (approx.) 6.0 sec. 5.0 sec. 7.5 sec. 7.5 sec. 6.0 sec. 5.0 sec. 4.0 sec. 3.5 sec. 4.0 sec. 2.9 sec. Min. number of flashes/ recycling time 130 / 6-30 sec. 130 / 5-30 sec. 170 / 7.5-30 sec. 190 / 7.5-30 sec. 140 / 6-30 sec. 140 / 5-30 sec. 90 / 4-30 sec. 90 / 3.5-30 sec. 150 / 4-30 sec. 150 / 2.9-30 sec. · Minimum recycling time is for operation using fresh batteries. · This data was 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 Ni-Cd (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 If extremely exhausted batteries are used, a strange sound can be heard caused by the flash head zooming back and forth even when the SB-800 is turned off. In this case, replace the SB-800's batteries even if an external battery source is used. t External power sources Using an optional external power source increases the number of flash firings and provides faster recycling times (p. 113). 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 sec. to turn on the SB-800. Make sure the ready-light comes on. 2 Press the FLASH button to test fire the flash. Test firing CAUTION! When test firing the Speedlight, never position your eyes close to the flash head. · The SB-800 fires at specified output in the Manual flash mode, or at approx. 1/16 output in the Distance-priority manual or TTL auto flash mode. · In Auto Aperture/Non-TTL auto flash operations, the SB-800 fires at a flash output controlled by the ISO sensitivity, aperture, and zoom-head position. · In Auto Aperture/Non-TTL auto flash operations, you can check the amount of insufficient flash output by pressing the FLASH button before taking the actual picture (p. 52). b button Pressing the b button for approx. 0.3 sec. turns the SB-800 on and the indications appear on the LCD panel. Pressing the button again turns the SB-800 off and the indications disappear. 20 t Standby function to conserve battery power If the SB-800 and the camera are not used for more than a specified time, the standby function activates and automatically turns the SB-800 off to conserve battery power (it goes into the standby mode). · In the standby mode, the R indicator appears on the LCD panel. · When in the standby mode, the SB-800 turns back on again when the SB-800's b or FLASH button is pressed, or the shutter release button is lightly pressed (when using a camera body that is compatible with TTL auto flash) (p. 8). · In the Wireless flash mode, the standby function activates in approx. 40 seconds (default setting) when the SB-800 is used as the master flash unit. However, the standby function does not work regardless of the SB-800's setting when the Speedlight is used as a remote flash unit (p. 73). · If the ready-light does not come on in approx. 60 seconds after turning the power on or after the flash has fired, the SB-800 enters the standby mode regardless of the SB-800's setting. · To avoid accidental firing or a malfunction when carrying the SB-800 in your camera bag, press the b button to turn the flash unit off and make sure the R indicator disappears. Adjusting the time before the SB-800 goes into the standby mode Adjust this duration using Custom settings (p. 67). 21 Basic operation 3 Attach the SB-800 to the camera and 1 Make sure the SB-800 and the camera body are turned off. 2 FLA SH Rotate the mounting foot lock lever to the left, slide the SB-800'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. 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 counterclockwise until it stops. Lock Unlock 22 adjust the flash head t Warning indication If the flash head is not adjusted to the horizontal/front position, when the power is turned on, this warning appears on the LCD panel. See page 100 for the flash head's rotating angle. · A dotted line below the underbar appears when the flash head is tilted down ­7°. · The flash shooting distance range disappears if the flash head is adjusted to other than the horizontal/front or down ­7° position. 23 Basic operation 4 Setting the ISO sensitivity In this manual, the sensitivity for digital SLRs and the film speed for film-based cameras are generally referred to as ISO sensitivity. For cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Groups I to II, and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL, the ISO sensitivity is automatically set and appears on the LCD panel when the camera and SB-800 are turned ON. Available ISO sensitivity in TTL auto flash operation The SB-800's maximum ISO sensitivity range usable in the TTL auto flash mode is ISO 25 to 1000. · The ISO sensitivity range may become narrower, depending on the cameras in use. For details, see your camera instruction manual. · The flash shooting distance range on the SB-800's LCD panel varies, depending on the ISO sensitivity. Therefore, be sure to set the ISO sensitivity correctly. u Digital data communication with the SB-800 When the SB-800 is used with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Groups I to II, or COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL, digital data communication is performed. The camera automatically sends the ISO sensitivity to the SB-800. With a CPU lens, the aperture and focal length are automatically set on the SB-800 (except for COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL). u Notes on setting the Speedlight's ISO sensitivity In the TTL auto flash mode and Manual flash mode (except Distance-priority manual p flash), there is no direct connection between setting the ISO sensitivity on the Speedlight and controlling the flash output level. Setting the ISO sensitivity is for correctly displaying the flash shooting distance range or the shooting distance indication on the Speedlight's LCD panel. In the Non-TTL auto flash mode (Auto Aperture flash B/Non-TTL auto flash A) and Distance-priority manual p flash operation, the correct exposure can be obtained by setting the camera's ISO sensitivity on the Speedlight, because the Speedlight controls the flash output. For cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Groups I to II and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL, the ISO sensitivity is automatically transferred from the camera to the Speedlight. 24 For cameras in Groups III to VII, set the ISO sensitivity in the Custom settings mode (p. 67). 1 Turn the SB-800 off once, then turn it back on. After that, turn on the camera body. 2 Press the g button for approx. 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode. 3 Press the e/f button and c/d button to select "ISO", then press the g button. 4 Press the e or f button to highlight the preferred ISO sensitivity. 5 Press the g button for approx. 2 sec. or press the b button to return to the normal display. 25 Basic operation Setting the ISO sensitivity for cameras in Groups III to VII 5 Adjust the zoom-head position 1 The zoom-head position is indicated on the LCD panel. · The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted by the power zoom function or it can be manually adjusted. · The guide number indicating flash output level varies according to the zoom-head position (p. 43). The power zoom function When the SB-800 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 within the range of 24mm, 28mm, 35mm to 105mm in increments of 5mm between 35mm and 105mm 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 wideangle setting of the lens in use. For example, if the zoom setting of a CPU lens is between 36mm and 39mm, the zoom-head position is 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, press the c or d button several times until it disappears. Power zoom activated Power zoom canceled tWhen the SB-800 is used with COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted by the power zoom function. "AUTO" appears along with "ZOOM", but without a zoom-head position on the LCD panel. 26 When the SB-800 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. · Press the c button to move toward a wideangle setting and the d button to move toward a telephoto setting. · A small M above the "ZOOM" indication appears on the LCD panel while manually setting the zoom-head position. · 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: M24mm ± M28mm ± 35mm ± M50mm ± M70mm± M85mm ± M105mm · Generally, set the zoom-head position to the focal length of the lens in use or to the closest wideangle 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. 67). 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 b button is pressed. · When the power zoom function is canceled, a small appears on the LCD panel. · Press the c button to move toward a wideangle setting and the d button to move toward a telephoto setting. The zoom-head position changes as follows: 24mm ± 28mm ± 35mm ± 50mm ± 70mm ± 85mm ± 105mm t Using the built-in wide-flash adapter/Nikon Diffusion Dome Use the built-in wide-flash adapter when a 14mm to 23mm lens is mounted (p. 104). · The power zoom function becomes inactive when using the wide-flash adapter. Press the c or d button to adjust the zoom-head position to 14mm or 17mm. · The zoom-head position is automatically set at 14mm when the Nikon Diffusion Dome is attached (p. 101). · Generally, when using a 14mm or 17mm lens, the distance between the camera and subject differs much from the center of the frame to the periphery, so the peripheral area might not be sufficiently lit in some cases. The same is true when using the Nikon Diffusion Dome. 27 Basic operation Setting the zoom-head position manually 6 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-800's flash modes. For details, refer to "Detailed operation" (p. 35), "TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-800" (p. 108) 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, except in the Auto FP High-Speed sync mode (p. 60). 28 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. 31). · If you set a shutter speed faster than the flash sync speed, the camera automatically shifts to its fastest sync speed when the SB-800 is turned on (except in the Auto FP High-Speed sync mode) (p. 60). 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. 43) and "Flash shooting distance range in the TTL auto flash modes" (p. 31). 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-800 is turned on. This is true of all cameras, except mechanical shutter cameras and when using the Auto FP High-Speed sync mode (p. 60). · To determine the aperture, refer to "Guide number" (p. 43) and "Flash shooting distance range in the TTL auto flash mode" (p. 31). 29 Basic operation 7 Setting the SB-800's flash mode 1 Press the a button to set the flash mode. · Display Do on the LCD panel. 2 Confirm that the main subject is within the flash shooting distance range. Selecting the flash mode Every time you press the a button, the available flash mode icon changes. Refer to "Icons on the LCD panel" (p. 13). Do D B A p G q · Note that the usable flash modes only appear and vary, and the unavailable flash modes will be skipped and do not appear, when pressing the a button. · The SB-800'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. 35), "TTL auto flash modes available with the SB-800" (p. 108) and your camera's instruction manual. 30 The SB-800's flash shooting distance range is 0.6m to 20m (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 4 1 2 14 3 173 24 28 35 50 70 85 105 2.8 2 1.4 4 2.8 2 1.4 Flash shooting distance range (m/ft.) 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4 8 5.6 11 8 Aperture 165 11 22 16 32 22 32 0.8-9.0/ 2.6-29 0.6-6.3/ 4 2.8 2 1.4 2.0-21 0.6-4.5/ 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4 2.0-15 0.6-3.2/ 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 2.0-10 0.6-2.2/ 11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2.0-7.4 0.6-1.6/ 16 11 8 5.6 4 2.0-5.2 0.6-1.1/ 22 16 11 8 5.6 2.0-3.7 0.6-0.8/ 32 22 16 11 8 2.0-2.6 32 22 16 11 32 22 16 *1 *2 *3 *4 _ _ 1.0-11/ 3.3-37 0.7-8.0/ 2.3-26 0.6-5.7/ 2.0-19 0.6-4.0/ 2.0-13 0.6-2.8/ 2.0-9.3 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 _ 1.1-12/ 3.7-41 0.8-9.0/ 2.6-29 0.6-6.3/ 2.0-20 0.6-4.5/ 2.0-14 0.6-3.1/ 2.0-10 0.6-2.2/ 2.0-7.3 0.6-1.6/ 2.0-5.2 0.6-1.1/ 2.0-3.7 0.6-0.7/ 2.0-2.6 _ 1.3-14/ 4.1-46 0.8-10/ 2.6-33 0.7-7.0/ 2.0-23 0.6-5.0/ 2.0-16 0.6-3.5/ 2.0-11 0.6-2.5/ 2.0-8.2 0.6-1.8/ 2.0-5.8 0.6-1.2/ 2.0-4.1 0.6-0.8/ 2.0-2.9 _ 1.9-20/ 6.2-66 1.3-15/ 4.3-49 1.0-10/ 3.1-35 0.7-7.5/ 2.2-25 0.6-5.3/ 2.0-17 0.6-3.7/ 2.0-12 0.6-2.6/ 2.0-8.7 0.6-1.8/ 2.0-6.2 0.6-1.3/ 2.0-4.4 0.6-0.9/ 2.0-3.1 2.0-20/ 6.6-66 1.4-16/ 4.6-52 1.0-11/ 3.3-37 0.7-8.0/ 2.3-26 0.6-5.7/ 2.0-19 0.6-4.0/ 2.0-13 0.6-2.8/ 2.0-9.3 0.6-2.0/ 2.0-6.6 0.6-1.4/ 2.0-4.6 0.6-1.0/ 2.0-3.3 2.4-20/ 7.8-66 1.7-19/ 5.5-62 1.2-13/ 3.9-44 0.8-9.5/ 2.8-31 0.6-6.7/ 2.0-22 0.6-4.8/ 2.0-16 0.6-3.4/ 2.0-11 0.6-2.4/ 2.0-7.8 0.6-1.7/ 2.0-5.5 0.6-1.2/ 2.0-3.9 2.8-20/ 9.3-66 2.0-20/ 6.6-66 1.4-16/ 4.6-52 1.0-11/ 3.3-37 0.7-7.6/ 2.3-26 0.6-5.3/ 2.0-19 0.6-4.0/ 2.0-13 0.6-2.8/ 2.0-9.3 0.6-2.0/ 2.0-6.6 0.6-1.4/ 2.0-4.6 3.0-20/ 10-66 2.2-20/ 7.4-66 1.6-18/ 5.2-59 1.1-13/ 3.7-42 0.8-9.0/ 2.6-29 0.6-6.3/ 2.0-21 0.6-4.5/ 2.0-15 0.6-3.2/ 2.0-10 0.6-2.2/ 2.0-7.4 0.6-1.6/ 2.0-5.2 3.4-20/ 11-66 2.4-20/ 7.8-66 1.7-19/ 5.5-62 1.2-13/ 3.9-44 0.8-9.5/ 2.8-31 0.6-6.7/ 2.0-22 0.6-4.8/ 2.0-16 0.6-3.4/ 2.0-11 0.6-2.4/ 2.0-7.8 0.6-1.7/ 2.0-5.5 3.6-20/ 12-66 2.5-20/ 8.3-66 1.8-20/ 5.8-66 1.3-14/ 4.1-47 0.9-10/ 2.9-33 0.6-7.1/ 2.1-23 0.6-5.0/ 2.0-17 0.6-3.6/ 2.0-12 0.6-2.5/ 2.0-8.3 0.6-1.8/ 2.0-5.8 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached and the wide-flash adapter in place With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached With the wide-flash adapter in place 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. *5 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 and F-401/N4004) 31 Basic operation About the flash shooting distance range 8 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-800 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. 58), "Red-eye reduction with slow-sync flash mode" (p. 58), or "Rear-curtain sync" (p. 59). · Refer to the camera's instruction manual for details on the flash sync mode. 32 v If the ready-light blinks after shooting, the light might be insufficient for correct exposure. In the TTL auto and Non-TTL auto flash modes, when the flash has fired at its maximum output and underexposure may have occurred, the ready-lights on the SB-800 and in the camera's viewfinder blink for approx. 3 sec. Depending on the camera in use, the ready-light on the SB-800 or in the camera's viewfinder lights up. To compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and reshoot. Display of the amount of underexposure For 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 amount of underexposure (0 to ­3.0 EV) appears for approx. 3 sec on the SB-800's LCD panel; at the same time the above readylights blink. · Pressing the a and g buttons simultaneously recalls this display. 33 Basic operation Using the SB-800 with the COOLPIX For COOLPIX cameras, such as the COOLPIX 8800 and 4500, having 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-800 or another Nikon Speedlight compatible with TTL auto flash to the COOLPIX. Auto flash operation is possible by setting the SB-800'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 featuring 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 having 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-800 as a remote flash unit cannot be performed. 34 Detailed operation This section provides a variety of flash modes available with the SB-800. Be sure to refer to your camera's instruction manual for specific information on camera settings and functions. SB-800's available flash modes The SB-800'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 (Indicators, usable cameras) TTL auto flash mode · i-TTL mode: Do/D: Cameras compatible with CLS, COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL Digital SLRs not compatible with CLS Cameras in Groups I to VI (No o appears with cameras in Groups III and IV while performing Balanced Fill-Flash) Cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Groups I to II and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL No limitation · D-TTL mode: Do/D: · TTL (film based) mode: Do/D: Non-TTL auto flash mode · Auto Aperture flash: B (p. 38): · Non-TTL auto flash: Manual mode · Distance-priority manual flash: · Manual flash: · Repeating flash: A (p. 40): p (p. 44): G (p. 46): q (p. 48): Except D1X and D1H digital cameras. No limitation No limitation u Monitor Preflashes The SB-800 fires a series of imperceptible Monitor Preflashes just before the flash fires to obtain information on the subject in these cases: (1) when the SB-800 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, and (2) when the SB-800 is used with cameras compatible with CLS with a CPU lens, and the flash mode is set to Auto Aperture flash. Monitor Preflashes are fired instantaneously and cannot be differentiated from the main flash, but H appears on the LCD panel (using a single flash unit). However, for cameras in Group I, Monitor Preflashes are not fired when the SB-800's flash head is adjusted to other than the horizontal/front or down to ­7° position, or the camera's flash sync mode is set to Rear-curtain sync, even when H appears on the LCD panel. 36 TTL auto flash mode TTL auto flash: 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. (While performing Balanced Fill-Flash, 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 108-110 to show the SB-800'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). t Flash shooting in the 1/300 TTL High-Speed Flash sync mode (F5 only) The farthest flash shooting distance cannot be read on the SB-800's LCD panel. In this case, use the guide number table and equation (p. 106) for calculating this distance, according to each zoom-head position. u Difference in flash control level in TTL and Non-TTL auto flash mode In either flash mode, the flash illumination that is reflected back from the subject is measured to control the flash output level. In the TTL mode, this measurement is made through-the-lens, while in the Non-TTL auto flash mode, it is performed through the Speedlight's light sensor window for Non-TTL auto flash covering a limited range. Therefore, if you take the same subject in different flash modes, some difference in the flash control level might appear, depending on shooting conditions. Use of the TTL mode is recommended when taking pictures with cameras compatible with TTL auto flash. 37 Detailed operation Non-TTL auto flash mode Auto Aperture B flash The SB-800's built-in sensor measures the flash illumination reflected from the subject and controls the flash output in combination with data automatically transmitted from the camera and lens to the SB-800, including the ISO sensitivity value and exposure compensation value as well as the aperture and focal length of the lens. · Auto Aperture flash is available with cameras compatible with CLS, digital SLRs not compatible with CLS, cameras in Groups I and II when used with a CPU lens, and COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL. · Auto Aperture flash is automatically set (default setting) for the above camera/lens combinations. To cancel Auto Aperture flash and set to Non-TTL auto flash (p. 40), use Custom settings (p. 67). 1 Set the camera's exposure mode to Programmed Auto (P) or Aperture-Priority Auto (A). · If "FEE" appears on the camera's LCD panel while the camera's exposure mode is set to Programmed Auto (P), reset the exposure mode to Aperture-Priority Auto (A). 2 Lock the CPU lens aperture at its minimum. · Not necessary with a G-type lens. 3 Press the a button to display B on the LCD panel. 4 While looking at the flash shooting distance range on the SB-800's LCD panel, set the aperture on the camera when the camera's exposure mode is set to "A". · Making exposure compensation on the SB-800 is also possible (p. 56). 38 5 Compose the picture, confirm that the ready-light is on, then shoot. · When the flash has fired at its maximum output and underexposure may have occurred, the ready-light on the SB-800 blinks for approx. 3 sec. To compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and reshoot. Setting the aperture in Auto Aperture B flash operation Set the aperture on the camera or lens within the available range as shown in the table below. Usable flash shooting distance ranges in Auto Aperture flash operation ISO sensitivity Zoom-head position (mm) 1600 800 400 200 100 50 25 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4 11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4 16 11 Aperture