Nikon SB-80DX manual

En Instruction Manual Autofocus Speedlight SB-8 0 D X SB-80DX ( En )[...]

2 Foreword Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Speedlight SB-80DX. To get the most out of your Speedlight, please read this instruction manual thoroughly before use. n (p. xx) indicates the reference page. Main features and functions of the SB-80DX • The SB-80DX is a high-performance Speedlight having a guide number of 38/125 (at the 35mm zoom-hea[...]

3 Preparation Take trial shots Take trial shots before shooting at 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-[...]

4 Camera groups and available flash modes In this manual, Nikon SLR cameras are divided into eight groups (I to VII, and Digital SLRs) 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-80DX with your particular [...]

5 The SB-80DX’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. 33) and your camera’s instruction manual.  : Available –: Not available 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for D[...]

6 Contents Preparation Foreword........................................................................2 Tips on using the Speedlight .........................................3 Camera groups and available flash modes ...................4 Speedlight parts .............................................................8 LCD panel ......................[...]

7 Advanced operation Exposure compensation and flash output level compensation ...................................................56 The flash shooting distance range with zoom lenses having a variable aperture ..............................59 Slow-sync flash mode/Red-eye reduction control........60 Rear-curtain sync and Modeling illumination .....[...]

8 Speedlight parts 4 3 1 2 7 6 5 9 8 10 11 14 13 12 1 Control button quick reference (p. 12) Easy reference chart for two-button operations and custom settings 2F lash head (p. 68) 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. 20) 4[...]

9 Preparation 20 19 15 18 16 17 24 23 22 21 15 Flash head tilting angle scale (p. 68) 16 Modeling illuminator button (p. 61) Press to fire flash repeatedly to check the illumination and the shadows cast on the subject before taking pictures. Wireless slave flash cancel button (p. 85) The SB-80DX will not fire, while this button is pressed. 17 Flash[...]

10 For reference, all indications are displayed in the illustration. LCD panel 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 About the LCD panel • Because of the directional characteristics of the liquid crystal, the LCD is difficult to read when viewed diagonally from above; however, the display can be seen clearly from a somewhat lower angle. ?[...]

11 Preparation Press the MODE and SEL buttons simultaneously To recall the underexposure value in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode (p. 31) . Press the MODE and ON/OFF buttons simultaneously for approx. 2 sec. To reset all settings, including custom settings, to their default settings (except the distance unit selected in m/ft). Control buttons 2 3 4 5[...]

12 Item Setting (Bold: default) Wireless flash mode* 1 (p. 84) OFF (canceled) ON (activated) Sound monitor* 2 in the wireless L (sound on) M (sound off) flash mode (p. 89) AF-assist illuminator (p. 62) AF ILL (activated) NO AF ILL (canceled) Standby function (p. 19) Selecting the distance unit (m, ft) (p. 13) m (meters) ft (feet) Canceling the powe[...]

13 Preparation l Setting the LCD panel illuminator using Custom settings 1 Press the g button for approx. 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode. 2 Press the e or f button to choose the Q LCD panel illuminator setting. 3 Press the c or d button to turn the LCD panel illuminator on or off. 4 To get out of the custom settings mode, press the g bu[...]

14 In this manual, Nikkor lenses are divided into two types: CPU Nikkor lenses and non-CPU Nikkor lenses. 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 CPU lenses CPU lenses have CPU contacts. G-type Nikkor[...]

Basic operation Basic operation In this section, basic procedures are clearly illustrated so that you can easily perform flash photography in the TTL/ D-TTL auto flash mode. For more details on other flash modes, refer to “Detailed operation” (p. 33).[...]

16 l Usable batteries m 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) NiCd (rechargeable, 1.2V) (4) Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) (rechargeable, 1.2V) n When replacing batteries, use fresh batteries of the same brand. n High-power manganese batteries are not recomm[...]

17 Basic operation n Minimum recycling time is for operation using fresh batteries. n The data was measured without using AF-assist illuminator, zoom-head position adjustment, or LCD panel illumination. n The above data may vary due to variations in battery performance. l Replacing / recharging the batteries m Refer to the following table to determ[...]

18 2 T est firing (confirming exposure) l Test firing CAUTION! When test firing the Speedlight, never position your eyes close to the flash head. m The SB-80DX fires at specified output in the Manual flash mode or at approx. 1/16 output in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode. m In the Non-TTL auto flash/Auto Aperture flash modes, the SB-80DX fires at a f[...]

19 Basic operation l Standby function to conserve battery power m If the SB-80DX and the camera are not used for approx. 40 seconds, the standby function activates and automatically turns the SB-80DX off to conserve battery power (standby-off state). n Only the R indicator appears on the LCD panel in the standby-off state. n The SB-80DX in the stan[...]

20 3 Attach the SB-80DX to the camera and l Turn the mounting foot lock lever securely until it stops. m 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 1 Make sure the SB-80DX and the camera body are turned off. 2 Rotate the mounting [...]

21 Basic operation The underbar blinks 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. l Warning indication m If the flash head is not adjusted to the horizontal/front position, when the power is turned on, this warning [...]

22 4 Setting the ISO sensitivity Digital data communication with the SB-80DX When the SB-80DX is used with cameras in Groups I and II, and Nikon Digital SLRs cameras, digital data communication is performed. The camera automatically sends the ISO sensitivity to the SB-80DX. With a CPU lens, the aperture and focal length are automatically set on the[...]

23 Basic operation l Available ISO sensitivity in TTL/D-TTL auto flash operation m The maximum ISO sensitivity range usable in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode is ISO 25 to 1000. n The ISO sensitivity range may become narrower, depending on the cameras in use. For details, see your camera instruction manual. n The flash shooting distance range on the [...]

24 5 Adjust the zoom-head position l The power zoom function m When the SB-80DX is used with cameras in Groups I, II, or Nikon Digital SLRs, in combination with a CPU lens, the power zoom function activates and the zoom head is automatically adjusted. n The zoom-head position is automatically adjusted within the range of 24mm, 28mm, 35mm to 105mm i[...]

25 Basic operation n A small M above the “ZOOM” indication appears on the LCD panel while manually setting the zoom-head position. n 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. l Canceling the power zoom function us[...]

26 6 Setting the camera’ s exposure mode and l Exposure mode and metering system m The camera’s available exposure mode and metering system vary, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the SB-80DX’s flash modes. For details, refer to “Detailed operation” (p. 33) and your camera’s instruction manual. m In Programmed Auto (P) mode,[...]

27 Basic operation metering system l Exposure modes other than Programmed Auto exposure (P) In Shutter-Priority Auto exposure (S) mode m By selecting a slower shutter speed, the proper exposure for the background can be achieved. n The camera selects the correct aperture. Set the shutter speed on the camera after confirming that the automatically c[...]

l TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode (p. 35) m Every time you press the MODE button, the flash mode changes. In the TTL auto flash mode, the D indicator appears on the LCD panel. m When using Nikon Digital SLRs cameras, D-TTL auto flash is activated and CD appears on the LCD panel. n Note that the usable flash modes only appear and vary, and the unavailable[...]

29 Basic operation Aperture Flash shooting distance range (m/ft.) ISO sensitivity Zoom-head position (mm) Flash shooting distance range in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash modes ∗ 1W ith the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached and the wide-flash adapter in place ∗ 2 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached ∗ 3W ith the wide-flash adapter in place ∗ 4 TTL/D[...]

30 8 Compose the picture and shoot with flash l Set the camera’s flash sync mode to Front-curtain sync. m Set the camera’s flash sync mode to Front-curtain sync with cameras featuring a Rear-curtain sync flash mode. n For other flash sync modes, refer to “Slow-sync flash mode” (p. 60), “Red-eye reduction with slow-sync flash mode” (p. 6[...]

31 Basic operation l If the ready-light blinks after shooting, the light might be insufficient. m In various auto flash modes, when the flash has fired at its maximum output and underexposure may have occurred, the ready-lights on the SB-80DX and in the camera’s viewfinder blink for approx. 3 sec. Depending on the camera in use, the ready-light o[...]

32 COOLPIX 900 series (COOLPIX 995, etc.) and COOLPIX 5000 digital cameras have a built-in compact flash unit. When more powerful illumination is required, or when performing multiple flash, connecting the SB-80DX or another Nikon Speedlight to the COOLPIX using cords is recommended as an external flash unit. Auto flash operation is possible by set[...]

33 Detailed operation This section provides a variety of flash modes available with the SB-80DX. Be sure to refer to your camera’s instruction manual for specific information on camera settings and functions. Detailed operation[...]

34 SB-80DX available flash modes ∗ 1 Monitor Preflashes are fired. ∗ 2 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash are generally referred to as Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor (Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor for Digital SLRs in D-TTL auto flash). ∗ 3 The TTL auto flash mode[...]

35 Detailed operation TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode The SB-80DX’s TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode varies, depending on the cameras and lenses in use or the camera’s exposure mode and metering system. For details, refer to “Usable cameras compatible with the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode” (p. 36) and your camera’s instruction manual. DE 3D Multi-Sensor [...]

36 Usable cameras compatible with the TTL/D-TTL Exposure mode P : Programmed Auto S : Shutter-Priority Auto A : Aperture-Priority Auto M : Manual Metering system Y : Matrix W : Center-Weighted X : Spot The available types of TTL/D-TTL auto flash vary, depending on the camera/lens/exposure mode/metering system being used. For details, see the tables[...]

37 Detailed operation auto flash mode Camera TTL/D-TTL Exposure Metering Lens auto flash mode mode system F4-Series DF P/S/A/M Y CPU lens ∗ 1 DF A/M Y Non-CPU lens ∗ 2 DF ∗ 3 P/S/A/M W CPU lens ∗ 1 DF ∗ 3 A/M Y Non-CPU lens D P/S/A/M YWX CPU lens ∗ 1 D A/M YWX Non-CPU lens ∗ 1: The A and M exposure modes cannot be used with a G-type l[...]

38 Usable cameras compatible with the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode Camera TTL/D-TTL Exposure Metering Lens auto flash mode mode system F-601 M / D P/S Y CPU lens ∗ 1 N6000 D P/S W CPU lens ∗ 1 D A/M W Non-CPU lens ∗ 1 D P/S YW CPU lens D A/M W Non-CPU lens ∗ 1: Only D appears on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash or Center- [...]

39 Detailed operation Camera TTL/D-TTL Exposure Metering Lens auto flash mode mode system D1-Series CDE ∗ 1 P/S/A/M YW CPU lens (D/G-type) D100 CDE ∗ 2 P/S/A/M YW CPU lens (except for D/G-type) CDF A/M W Non-CPU lens CD P/S/A/M YWX CPU lens CD A/M WX Non-CPU lens ∗ 1: 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs is set ∗ 2: Multi-Se[...]

40 Any camera and lens combination. (For Digital SLRs, it is possible only when a non-CPU lens is mounted.) Non-TTL auto flash A mode Usable cameras and lenses The SB-80DX’s built-in sensor measures the flash illumination reflected back from the subject, automatically controlling the SB-80DX’s light output to give the correct exposure. This all[...]

41 Detailed operation 6 Compose the picture, make sure the ready-light is on, then shoot. n When the flash has fired at its maximum output and underexposure may have occurred, the ready-light on the SB-80DX blinks for approx. 3 sec. To compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and reshoot. Aperture Flash shooting distance range[...]

42 Digital SLRs + CPU lenses Auto Aperture AA flash mode In addition to Non-TTL auto flash (p. 40), the SB-80DX’s built-in sensor correctly controls the flash output in combination with data automatically transmitted from the camera and lens to the SB-80DX, including the ISO sensitivity value, aperture, focal length, and exposure compensation val[...]

43 Detailed operation 5 Compose the picture, confirm that the ready-light is on, then shoot. n When the flash has fired at its maximum output and underexposure may have occurred, the ready-light on the SB-80DX blinks for approx. 3 sec. To compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and reshoot. l Setting the aperture in Auto Aper[...]

44 Manual ÉG mode In this mode, the flash always fires at a specified output. The SB-80DX features three types of manual modes. Types Usable camera Manual flash No limitation Repeating flash No limitation FP High-Speed Flash sync F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, D1-Series m You can calculate the correct aperture by using the guide number table[...]

45 Detailed operation ISO 25 50 100 200 400 800 1600 Factors x0.5 x0.71 x1 x1.4 x2 x2.8 x4 To calculate the correct aperture n Calculate the correct aperture by using this equation and the guide number table, according to the ISO sensitivity and flash output level that are set: f/stop (aperture) = Guide number (GN) x ISO sensitivity factor ÷ Shoot[...]

46 Manual G mode l Manual flash operation m In Manual flash photography, you select the aperture and flash output level. In this way, you can control the exposure and flash shooting distance when shooting subjects where the correct exposure is difficult to obtain in the TTL or Non-TTL auto flash mode. In Manual flash operation, the flash output lev[...]

47 Detailed operation ▲ 1/1 (0.0) ➔ 1/2 (0.0) ➔ 1/2 (  0.3) ➔ 1/2 (  0.7) ➔ 1/4 (0.0) FP ➔ 1/128 (0.0)  1/4 (  0.7) ➔ 1/4 (  0.3) 1/128 (0.0) ➔ 1/128 (  0.3) ➔ 1/128 (  0.7) ➔ 1/64 (0.0) FP ➔ 1/1 (0.0) ➔ 1/2 (0.0)  1/64 (  0.7) ➔ 1/64 (  0.3) 5 Confirm that the ready-light is on, t[...]

48 Manual G mode l Repeating flash mode m In the Repeating Flash mode, the SB-80DX fires repeatedly during a single exposure, creating stroboscopic multiple-exposure effects. This mode is useful when shooting fast-moving subjects. n In the Repeating flash mode, use fresh or fully charged batteries. Also allow enough time for the flash to recycle be[...]

49 Detailed operation 1 Set the camera’s exposure mode to Manual ( M ). 2 Press the a button to set the flash mode to the H Repeating Flash mode. 3 Press the g button and the flash output level starts blinking. Press the e or f button to increase or decrease the values. n The flash output level blinks during adjustment and stops after 8 seconds u[...]

50 8 Set the shutter speed. n Use the equation to determine the shutter speed and set that shutter speed or one slower. Shutter speed = Number of flashes per frame ÷ Frequency of flashes (Hz) n For example, if the number of flashes per frame is 10 and frequency is 5 Hz, divide 10 by 5 to get a shutter speed of 2 sec. or slower. n Or you can set th[...]

51 Detailed operation l FP High-Speed Flash sync K mode m High-speed flash synchronization at shutter speeds between 1/250 and 1/4000 sec. (1/500 and 1/16000 sec. for the D1-Series) is possible, allowing you to use a wider aperture to achieve shallow depth of field and blur the background. n Do not use the built-in wide-flash adapter (p. 72) or Nik[...]

52 Manual G mode 5 Set the same aperture on your camera or lens that is set on the SB-80DX. 6 Set the shutter speed between 1/250 and 1/4000 sec. (between 1/500 and 1/16000 sec. for the D1-Series). n Setting a shutter speed slower than 1/250 sec. is not recommended. n The faster the shutter speed, the smaller the flashoutput (guide number). 7 Confi[...]

53 Detailed operation Notes on continuous flash shooting l Maximum number of continuous firings m It is recommended to allow the SB-80DX to cool off for at least 10 minutes after the maximum number of continuous firings as shown in this table: Max. no. of continuous firings l Synchronization during continuous flash shooting m It is possible to take[...]

54 Checking the correct exposure before shooting You can determine whether the subject will receive the correct exposure by test firing the SB-80DX before actually taking the picture. l TTL auto flash mode m Press the SB-80DX’s MODE button until “ A ” (Non-TTL auto flash) appears on the LCD panel. Set the same aperture on the SB-80DX as set i[...]

Advanced operation Advanced operation In this section advanced information on each function of the SB-80DX’s is provided. Advanced operation[...]

56 Exposure compensation allows you to take well-balanced pictures by intentionally modifying the correct exposure when a subject of extremely high or low reflectivity is included in a picture or when you want to create flash photographs to match your creative preferences. n Some plus compensation may be necessary when the background includes a mir[...]

57 Advanced operation compensation Making exposure compensation in the Non-TTL auto flash and Manual flash mode m Exposure compensation is performed by intentionally modifying the correct aperture. m In the Non-TTL auto flash mode, the correct exposure can be obtained when the same aperture is set on the camera as that set on the SB-80DX. Therefore[...]

58 Usable cameras For cameras in Groups I to III, and Digital SLRs cameras Exposure compensation and flash output level compensation l Flash output level compensation m Make exposure compensation for a flash illuminated subject without affecting the background exposure by modifying the SB-80DX’s flash output level. m Available in the TTL/D-TTL au[...]

59 Advanced operation The flash shooting distance range with zoom lenses having a variable aperture With zoom lenses having a variable aperture, take note of the following before setting the aperture on the SB-80DX and confirming the flash shooting distance range. Lenses having a variable aperture m There are two maximum aperture values indicated i[...]

60 l Slow-sync flash m The flash is controlled at a slow shutter speed to obtain the correct exposure for both the main subject and background in low-light situations or at night. m Available with cameras providing slow-sync. You cannot set the slow-sync function on the SB-80DX directly. Set it on the camera. For more information, refer to your cam[...]

Usable cameras All cameras 61 Advanced operation Rear -curtain sync and Modeling illumination Rear-curtain sync Front-curtain sync Shooting data n Camera: F100 (2 seconds, f/4 + 1/2) n Focal length: 70mm n Speedlight: SB-80DX (Manual, flash output level: M1/1) m In normal flash synchronization, when shooting fast-moving subjects at slow shutter spe[...]

62 Autofocus flash operation in dim light Usable cameras and lenses Cameras with autofocus function + autofocus lens When the light is too dim for normal autofocus operation, the SB-80DX’s AF-Assist Illuminator enables you to perform autofocus flash photography in dim light. In dim light, the AF-assist illuminator turns on automatically when the [...]

63 Advanced operation l Activating and canceling the AF-Assist illuminator using Custom settings 1 Press the g button for more than 2 sec. to display the Custom settings mode. 2 Press the e or f button to choose “AF-Assist illuminator.” 3 Press the c or d button to activate or cancel the AF-Assist Illuminator: U : Activate S : Cancel 4 Press th[...]

[...]

In this section, information on a variety of photographic techniques such as bounce and close-up flash is provided, explaining how to create flash pictures with softer shadows. We also present the recommended position of Speedlights in wireless multiple flash photography or when attached with cords. T echnical operation/ Effective Speedlight placem[...]

66 Bounce flash Normal flash Bounce flash operation (For taking pictures without Tilt or rotate the flash head to bounce the light off the ceiling or walls to soften shadows and create more natural-looking portraits indoors. Even softer shadows are possible when using the Nikon Diffusion Dome. Tilting the flash head m Tilt the flash head up at leas[...]

67 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement unattractive shadows) 1 Set the camera’s exposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto ( A ) or Manual ( M ). 2 Set the camera’s metering system to Matrix Metering Y or Center-Weighted Metering W . 3 Set the flash mode to TTL/D-TTL auto flash, or Non-TTL auto/Auto Aperture flash. 5 Adjust the fla[...]

68 l Setting the aperture m With bounce flash, there is a light loss when compared with normal flash with the flash head adjusted to the horizontal/front position. You should use an aperture that is 2 to 3 stops wider. m The flash shooting distance range indicator disappears, if the flash head is adjusted to other than the horizontal/front position[...]

69 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement l Using the built-in bounce card m In bounce flash photography, use the SB-80DX’s built-in bounce card to create a highlight in the subject’s eyes, making the eyes look more vibrant. n As shown in the illustrations below, pull out the wide-flash adapter. While holding the bounce card, slide [...]

70 Close-up flash operation With the built-in wide-flash adapter attached to the SB-80DX, close-up flash shooting can be performed. The built-in wide-flash adapter diffuses the light from the flash to soften shadows. When the SB-80DX is used off-camera, you can take more natural-looking close-up pictures. n Be sure to use the wide-flash adapter whe[...]

71 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement 1 Set the camera’s exposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto ( A ) or Manual ( M ). 2 Set the camera’s metering system to Matrix Metering Y or Center-Weighted Metering W . 3 Set the SB-80DX’s flash mode to TTL or D-TTL auto flash. 4 Position the built-in wide-flash adapter over the flash he[...]

72 l Setting the aperture m Calculate the aperture by using this equation and table. Setting a smaller aperture than the one obtained from the equation is recommended. f/stop ≥ Coefficient ÷ Flash-to-subject distance m For example, with a subject 0.5m (1.6 ft) away using an ISO sensitivity of 100 and with the wide-flash adapter in place, the sug[...]

73 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement l When shooting subjects closer than 0.6m (2 ft) m With the SB-80DX attached to the camera, sufficient illumination of the subject cannot be obtained. In this case, use the SB-80DX off-camera by attaching the optional TTL Remote Cord as shown below. SC-17 A B n For cameras in Group I in 3D Multi[...]

74 Multiple flash operation (Creating various flash Multiple flash photography allows you to create more natural-looking pictures by using several flash units to eliminate the shadows cast by the subject or to emphasize the subject’s shape. Multiple flash operation can be performed in two ways: (1) By using cords or (2) Wireless operation. l Note[...]

75 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement effects by using more than one Speedlight) Canceling the power standby function m When using a Speedlight having a standby function as a slave flash unit, make sure that the standby function is set to off, or select a standby duration that is long enough, using the Custom settings mode. m The SB[...]

76 The master flash unit  used off-camera illuminates the subject from the side to create a more natural-looking picture, and slave flash units  and  illuminate the subject from the top and the rear to eliminate shadows, helping to give a better rendition of the subject. Shooting data n Camera: F100 (1/250 sec. f/11) n Focal length: 70mm n[...]

77 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement l Connecting the master and slave flash units m Refer to “System chart for TTL multiple flash” (p. 80). Also see the instruction manuals of your cameras, Speedlights, and accessories. n Use the optional TTL Remote Cords SC-18 or SC-19 to connect the SB-80DX to more than one slave flash unit.[...]

78 l TTL multiple flash 1 Set the camera’s exposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto ( A ) or Manual ( M ). 2 Attach the master flash unit to the camera, turn the power on, and set the flash mode to TTL auto flash. n Available TTL auto flash modes are Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash, Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash, and Standard TTL flash. F[...]

79 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement l Manual multiple flash 1 Set the camera’s exposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto ( A ) or Manual ( M ). 2 Turn off the power and attach the master flash unit to the camera. 3 Connect the sync terminal on the master flash unit to the slave flash unit using optional Sync Cords SC-11 or SC-15.[...]

80 System chart for TTL multiple flash SC-24 SB-21B SB-21A SB-16A SB-17 SC-14 SB-11 SC-23 SB-14 SB-140 SB-16B SB-15 SB-25 SB-26 SB-24 Master flash unit SC-17 V-type Sync Cord SB-27 AS-17 SB-29/29s Items marked on page 80 are connected to item on page 81. SB-28/28DX SB-22 SB-22s SB-20 SB-23 SB-30 SB-50DX SB-80DX Group I Group V F-501/N2020, F-401 s [...]

81 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement SB-21B SB-16B SB-15 SB-22 SB-20 SC-18 (1.5m) SC-19 (3m) SC-18 SC-19 SC-18 SC-19 SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/28DX SB-27 SB-24 Slave flash unit SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/28DX SB-24 SB-16B AS-10 AS-10 AS-10 SB-16A AS-11 AS-11 SB-17 SB-80DX SB-22s SB-29/29s Using SC-18 or SC-19, up to five flash units can be used for[...]

82 Wireless multiple flash can be operated in two ways: (1) In the A (auto) mode, in which the wireless slave flash units start and stop firing in sync with the master Speedlight, and (2) in the M (manual) mode, in which the wireless slave flash units only fire in sync with the master Speedlight. n In wireless multiple flash, the master flash unit [...]

83 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement Three slave flash units are used. Slave flash unit  is used to eliminate the shadow caused by the master flash unit  , while slave flash units  and  brightly illuminate the subject from behind as well as the background to create a more natural-looking picture. Shooting data n Camera:[...]

84 m When the SB-80DX is attached to the camera after activating the Wireless flash mode, the O indicator appears on the LCD panel, showing that the SB-80DX can be used as a wireless master flash unit. When the flash unit is detached as it is, the indicator automatically changes to P or P and you can use the SB-80DX as a wireless slave flash unit. [...]

85 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement l Wireless master flash unit m The SB-80DX, when set as a wireless master flash unit, can be used as a normal flash unit, but Monitor Preflashes will not fire even if Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor is selected. m Use of a wireless master flash unit set to the TTL auto flash [...]

86 l Wireless multiple flash shooting in A (auto) mode Wireless multiple flash shooting 1 Set the camera’s exposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto ( A ) or Manual ( M ). 2 Set up all Speedlights as master and slave flash units. 3 Set all SB-80DX units (used as the master and slave flash units) to the Wireless flash mode. 4 Press the a button on [...]

87 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement l Wireless multiple flash shooting in M (manual) mode 1 Set the camera’s exposure mode to Aperture- Priority Auto ( A ) or Manual ( M ). 2 Set up all Speedlights as the master and slave flash units. 3 Set all SB-80DX units (used as the master and slave flash units) to the Wireless flash mode. [...]

88 Adjusting the flash output level in M (manual) mode Adjusting the slave flash unit’s flash output level manually m Use the following equation to determine the proper manual flash output level of the slave flash unit, depending on your creative preferences. GN = F x D where GN is the guide number of the slave flash unit (in meters/feet), F is t[...]

89 Technical operation/Effective Speedlight placement l Confirming flash operation using the ready-light or the beeping sound m You can confirm flash operation by checking the ready-light on the Speedlight or the beeping sound during and after shooting. Activating and canceling the SB-80DX’s beeping sound using Custom settings m When the SB-80DX [...]

90 Lights up or does not come on (not blinking) Lights up or does not come on (not blinking) Two beeps Fired properly Blinks for approx. 3 sec. Blinks for approx. 3 sec. Beeps for approx. 3 sec. Both the master and slave flash units have fired at full output and light may have been insufficient for correct exposure. Use a wider aperture and reshoot[...]

Reference information Reference information Information on optional accessories and tips on Speedlight care are presented here. Following that are notes on batteries, troubleshooting, and the SB-80DX’s specifications.[...]

92 Optional accessories l Accessories for multiple flash TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18 (approx. 1.5 m or 4.9 ft) TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-19 (approx. 3 m or 9.8 ft) Multi-Flash Sync Cords SC-18/SC-19 are useful for connecting the SB-80DX to the multiple flash terminal of the SC-17 or AS-10 for TTL multiple flash operation. TTL Multi-Flash Ada[...]

93 Reference information Multi-Flash Bracket Unit SK-E900 (One AS-E900 Multi-Flash Adapter is included with the SK-E900) Multi-Flash Adapter AS-E900 The SB-80DX can be used as a multiple flash unit with Nikon COOLPIX 900 series digital cameras by attaching the COOLPIX to Multi-Flash Bracket unit SK-E900 and connecting the SB-80DX to the multi- flas[...]

94 Connecting to an external power source m To use an external power source, remove the cover and connect its power cord to the SB-80DX’s external power source terminal. m Using external power sources made by another manufacturer is not recommended. Nikon DC Unit SD-7 Nikon High-Performance Battery Pack SD-8A Power Bracket Unit SK-6A ∗ 1 With A[...]

95 Reference information l Cleaning m Use a blower brush to remove dirt and dust from the SB-80DX and clean it with a soft, clean cloth. After using the SB-80DX near saltwater, wipe the SB-80DX with a soft, clean cloth slightly moistened with plain water to remove salt, and then dry it using a dry cloth. m On rare occasions, the LCD may turn on or [...]

96 Notes on batteries Warning m Batteries shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like. m Dry batteries shall not be subjected to charging. m Do not expose the SB-80DX to water as this may result in electric shock or cause the unit to catch on fire. l Usable batteries m Use four AA-type batteries (1.5V or lower) of any [...]

97 Reference information Problem The power cannot be turned on. The ready-light does not light up. The power turns off automatically. A strange sound can be heard caused by the flash head zooming back and forth even when the SB-80DX is turned off. The flash shooting distance range does not appear. No D , D E , or DF indicator appears in TTL auto fl[...]

98 Problem In the Auto Aperture AA flash mode, the aperture and the flash output level compensation value blink and the flash shooting distance range disappears. The zoom-head position displays “ - - mm ” and blinks. Three beeps sound during wireless multiple flash shooting. Cause The aperture or flash output level compensation value set is out[...]

99 Reference information Cameras in Groups I (except for F70-Series/N70) to VI and Digital SLRs cameras Note The SB-80DX incorporates a microcomputer to control flash operations. In rare cases, the SB-80DX may not work properly even after fresh batteries are properly installed. If this happens, replace the batteries while the SB-80DX’s power is t[...]

100 Electronic Automatic Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) construction and series circuitry Flash Selected by pressing a button. exposure control Settings on camera * Appears on the SB-80DX’s LCD panel Indicator Available flash operation D + E 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash/ Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash C + D + E 3D Multi-Sensor [...]

101 Reference information Angle of Variable in 7 steps, plus three steps with wide-flash adapter coverage and Nikon Diffusion Dome ∗ 1 With the Nikon Diffusion Dome attached ∗ 2 With the built-in wide-flash adapter in place Bounce Flash head tilts down to –7° or up to 90° with click-stops at –7°, capability 0°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°; F[...]

102 External power sources (optional) Ready-light n Lights up when SB-80DX is recharged and ready to fire. n Blinks for 3 sec. when flash fires at its maximum output, indicating light may have been insufficient (in TTL/D-TTL auto flash, Non-TTL Auto Flash, and Auto Aperture flash modes) FLASH button Performs test firing for determination of correct[...]

103 Reference information Modeling The flash fires repeatedly at a reduced flash output level to illumination provide illumination for previsualizing the modeling of the subject. Custom settings By pressing the g and ef , c , or d buttons, the following custom settings are possible: Wireless flash mode, Sound monitor in the wireless flash mode, AF-[...]

104 Index 1/300 TTL high-speed flash sync mode........................................39 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash....35 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLRs.................................35 Amount of underexposure ...................31 Aperture-priority auto exposure (A) mode ..........................................27[...]

Reference information 105 Light sensor window for wireless slave flash ..........................................8 Manual exposure (M) mode ................27 Manual flash operation ........................46 Manual mode .......................................44 Master flash unit ..................................74 Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash .....[...]

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FUJI BLDG., 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO 100-8331, JAPAN No reproduction in any form of this manual, in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorization from NIKON CORPORATION. Printed in Japan T2J00500403 (S940) 11[...]