Nikon SB 20 User Manual

Nikon

Autofocus Speedlight

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

iT

FOREWORD
NOMENCLATURE
BASIC OPERATION

Installing Batteries................................................

Attaching Flash Unit to Camera Accessory Shoe
Adjusting Flash Head
Programmed TTL Auto Flash Shooting

Flash Shooting......................................................

AUTOFOCUS FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

(with Nikon F-501/N2020 or F-401/N4004) . . ..

SETTING CAMERA SHUTTER SPEED

DETERMINING APERTURE..............................

TTL Mode

A Mode (for Non-TTL Automatic Flash

M Mode (tor Manual Flash Exposure Control) ...
Guide Number

SETTING POWER SWITCH

STBY (STANDBY) Position

ON Position...........................................................

OFF Position.........................................................

READY-LIGHT INDICATIONS...........................

Ready-Light Warning Functions

..............................................

........................................

.....................................

...........................................

(with Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004 or

F-301/N2000).....................................................

(tor TTL Automatic Flash Exposure Control)....

Exposure Control)

..............................................

......................................................

.............................

..................................

...........................

..................

CONTENTS^

.... 3

. 4-6

.... 7

10-11

12-13

14-16

.... 17

18-32

18-22

23-27
28-31
...32
... 33
... 33
... 33
... 33
34-35
...35

SYNCHRO-SUNLIGHT FILL-IN

7-13

FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY......................................... 36-38

In TTL Mode................................................................37

In A Mode....................................................................37

In M Mode...................................................................38

DIFFUSING THE LIGHT........................................... 39-41

Bounce Flash Photography Procedure
Using A Ditfuser

SYNCHRONIZATION WITH MOTOR-DRIVEN

CAMERA

MULTIPLE FLASH EXPOSURES..................................... 42

MULTIPLE FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

TTL Multiple Flash Photography
Manual Multiple Flash Photography

AVOIDING “RED EYE”...................................................46

CLOSE-UP FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY IN TTL MODE .... 47

TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHT CARE.................................... 48-49

ABOUT BATTERIES....................................................... 50

ACCESSORIES

Sync Cords SC-11 and SC-15................................... 51

TTL Remote Cord SC-17........................................... 51

TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10
TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cords SC-18 and SC-19
Flash Unit Couplers AS-4 and AS-7

DC Unit SD-7............................................................. 52

SPECIFICATIONS

.........................................................

.................

......................................................................

.........................

............................

...........................

..........................................................

.................................

..........................

.....................................................

40-41

43-46

51-52

..........

53-55

41

42

43-45

46

51

52

52

Nikon

Für Besitzer einer Nikon F4/F4s und F-801

Das SB-20 ermöglicht matrix-gesteuerten Aufheliblitz und Aufheilbiitz
mit mittenbetonter Messung zusätziich zur normalen TTL-Blitz­automatik und Blitzautomatik ohne TTL. Matrix-gesteuerter Aufheiiblitz
erzeugt eine ausgewogene Kombination von Umgebungsiicht und

Biitzbeieuchtung, die natüriich wirkt. Detaiis werden besser
herausgestelit—ohne daß dadurch die korrekte Belichtung für den

Hintergrund verlorengeht.

Für nähere Einzeiheiten lesen Sie bitte auch die Bedienungsanieitung
zu Ihrer Kamera.

Die möglichen Biitzbetriebsarten für die einzelnen Kombinationen von

Kamera und SB-20 entnehmen Sie bitte der Tabeile weiter unten.

F4/F4s-fSB-20

Sucher
Viseur

Objektive \
Objectifs

Matrix
Matriciel

AF Nikkore/AI-P-Nikkore
AF Nikkor/Nikkor Al-P

AF-Telekonverter/

AF-Nikkore für Nikon F3AF/
Al-Nikkore (inkl. Al-S)

AF Convertisseur/

AF Nikkor pour F3AF/

Nikkor Al (et Al-S)

Sonstige Objektive
Autres objectifs

Mittenbetont
Centrée

Spot
Spot

Matrix
Matriciel

Mittenbetont
Centrée

Spot
Spot

Matrix
Matriciel

Mittenbetont
Centrée

Spot
Spot

@ Matrix-gesteuerter Aufhellblitz
O Aufhellblitz mit mittenbetonter Messung
A Konventionelle TTL-Blitztotografie

* Das Blitzen erfolgt automatisch in Betriebsart A.

Die Blende manuell wählen.

• Bei Verwendung der Sucher DW-20 und DW-21 ist das TTL­Verbindungskabel SC-24 erforderlich.

F-801/N8008+SB-20

Objektive Meßsystem —^

^ _Jylode d’exposition

Objectifs Mode de mesure^\

AF-Nikkore/

Al-P-Nikkore

AF Nikkor/

Nikkor AFP

Sonstige Objektive«
Autres objectifs»

Beiichtungsart

Matrix
Matriciel

Mittenbetont
Centrée

Matrix
Matriciel

Mittenbetont
Centrée

Pd

PPhS A

@

O O O

O* O* O*

O*

Zur Beachtung:

1. Bei Verwendung der AF-Illuminator-LED des SB-20 mit einem AF­Nikkor-Objektiv läßt sich mit Brennweiten von 25 bis 105mm

arbeiten. Dieser Bereich verschiebt sich bei Verwendung des AF­Telekonverters TC-16A nach 15 bis 58mm. Der Fokussierbereich

liegt bei etwa 1 bis 8 Metern (mit AF-Nikkor 50mm f/1,8, bei
Normaltemperaturen, für ein normales Aufnahmeobjekt mit 35%
Reflexionsgrad).

2. Für indirekfes Blifzen die Kamera auf Belichfungsbetriebsart A oder
M einstellen und eine der größeren Blenden wählen.

3. Bei manueller Blitzkontrolle die Kamera auf Belichfungsbefriebsart

A oder M einstellen und die Blende von Hand wählen.

Multi-Meß-Sucher DP-20
Viseur multi-mesure DP-20

P

s

Ph

@

@ @

O O O

A A A A

O* O* O

A A A A A

A A A A - - - - - - - -

A A

A A A

(ô)

@

O»

O

Pour les utilisateurs des appareils
Nikon F4/F4S, F-801/N8008*

Le fiash SB-20 à mise au point automatique Nikon permet d’effectuer
les prises en mesure matricielie et centrée en plus des contrôles de

l'exposition avec fiash aufomafique TTL et non TTL. Le flash en
mesure matricielle permet de créer un effet naturel et esthétique en
remplissant les ombres marquées et en mettant en valeur les détails
du sujet—sans perdre l’exposition correcte de l’arrière-plan.
Pour les détails, lisez attentivement le mode d’emploi du SB-20 et celui
de l’appareil.
Référez-vous aux tableaux ci-après pour les modes de flash utilisables
pour chaque combinaison appareil/SB-20.

*La Nikon N8008 est vendue exclusivement aux Etats-Unis.

6-fach-Vergrößerungssucher

AE-Sportsucher DA-20
Viseur action AE DA-20

A M

@

A A A A A

P

_s

Ph

A

- - - - - - - -

A

O O

A A A A A A A

A

- - - - - -

A

O* O* O

A A A A A A

A M

O

A A A A A A

@ Dosage auto flash/lumière ambiante par mesure matricielle
O Atténuation des ombres par flash en mesure centrée
A Flash standard TTL

* Le mode d’exposition passe automatiquements sur “A”.

Sélectionnez manuellement l’ouverture.

• La carte de télécommande TTL SC-24 est nécessaire lorsque l’on
utilise le DW-20 ou DW-21.

@ Matrix-gesteuerter Aufhellblitz
О Aufhellblitz mit mittenbetonter Messung
А Konventionelle TTL-Blitzfotografie

M

* Das Blitzen erfolgt automatisch in Betriebsart A. Die Blende

manuell wählen.

• Dazu gehören AF-Telekonverter, Al-Nikkore (einschließlich Al-S),

A

A

das Balgengerät PB-6, Automatik-Zwischenringe usw.

@ Dosage auto flash/lumière ambianfe par mesure mafricielle
О Atfénuation des ombres par flash en mesure centrée

A Flash standard TTL

* Le mode d’exposition passe automatiquement sur “A”.

A

Sélectionnez manuellement l’ouverture.

• Comprend les convertisseurs AF, les objectifs Nikkor de type Al (y

A

compris Al-S), le soufflet PB-6, les bagues-rallonge automatique, etc.

Notes:

1. Lorsque l’on utilise l’illuminateur d’assistance AF du SB-20 avec des
objectifs AF Nikkor, la distance focale va de 24 à 105mm. Cette
plage passe à 15-58mm si l’on utilise un Téléconvertisseur AF
TC-16A. La plage de mise au point est d’environ à 8 mètres (avec le

Nikkor AF de 50mm f/1,8 à températures normales, pour un sujet

standard et 35% de réflectance.

2. Pour les prises de vue en flash par réflexion, réglez le mode
d’exposition de l’appareil sur A ou M, et sélectionner une des
ouvertures les plus larges.

3. Lorsque le SB-20 est utilisé avec le contrôle de l’exposition en flash
manuel, régler le mode d’exposition de l'appareil sur A ou M et
sélectionner manuellement l’ouverture de l’objectif.

DW-21 /Lichtschachtsucher
DW-20

Amplificateur 6X DW-21/

Viseur de poitrine DW-20

P

Ph

A

- -

A

- - - -

A

-

A M

s

- -

- -

- - -

A A A

A

A

Nikon

For Nikon F4/F4S, F-801/N8008*

camera users

The Nikon Autofocus Speedlight SB-20 makes it possible to perform

Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash and Center-Weighted Fill-Flash in addition
to standard TTL Automatic Flash Exposure Control and Non-TTL
Automatic Flash Exposure Control. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash creates
a pleasing, natural effect by filling in harsh shadows and bringing out
subject detail—without losing the correct background exposure.

For details, be sure to read the SB-20 instruction manual and your
camera instruction manual.

Refer to the tables below for usable flash modes in each camera/
SB-20 combination.

*The Nikon N8008 is sold exclusively in the U.S.A.

F4/F4S+SB-20

Viewfinder
Visor

Lenses
Objetivos

Matrix

AF Nikkor lenses/

Al-P-type Nikkor lenses

Objetivos Nikkor AF/

Objetivos Nikkor tipo Al-P

AF Teleconverter/AF Nikkor

lenses for Nikon F3AF/
Al-type Nikkor lenses
(including Al-S)

Teleconvertidor AF/Objeti-

vos Nikkor AF para Nikon
F3AF/Objetivos Nikkor
tipo Al (incluido al Al-S)

Other lenses
Otros objetivos

Por matriz

Center-Weighted
Calculado para el centro

Spot
Puntual

Matrix
Por matriz

Center-Weighted
Calculado para el centro

Spot
Puntual

Matrix
Por matriz

Center-Weighted
Calculado para el centro

Spot
Puntual

® Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash
O Center-Weighted Fill-Flash

A Standard TTL flash

* Exposure mode automatically shifts to A.

Select aperture manually.

• TTL Remote Cord SC-24 is required when using DW-20 or DW-21.

F-801/N8008-I-SB-20

Lenses Metering systerñ ^ ^
Objetivos Sistema de medición^\^

AF Nikkor lenses/AI-P-

type Nikkor lenses

Objetivos Nikkor AF/

Objetivos Nikkor tipo

Al-P

Other lenses*
Otros objetivos»

^ ^ ——___Modode exposición

Exposure mode

Matrix
Por matriz

Center-Weighted
Calculado para el centro

Matrix
Por matriz

Center-Weighted
Calculado para el centro

Notes:

When using the SB-20’s AF illuminator with AF Nikkor lenses, the

1

focal length is from 24 to 105mm. This range shifts to 15 to 58mm
when using AF Teleconverter TC-16A. The focusing range is approx.

1 to 8 meters (with AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 at normal temperatures,
for a standard subject with 35% reflectance).
For bounce flash photography, set the camera's exposure mode to
A or M and select one of the larger apertures.
When the SB-20 is used in Manual Flash Exposure Control, set the
camera’s exposure mode to A or M and manually select lens aperture.

Multi-Meter Finder DP-20

Telémetro del fechador múltiple

DP-20

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o

A A

@* @*

o»

o* o

A A A

A A

A A A

A A A A

A

Pd

pPhS A M

@ @ @

O O

O

O* o* o*

o* o* o

Para los usuarios de las cámaras F4/F4s,
F-801/N8008*

El Speedlight de autoenfoque SB-20 de Nikon le permite efectuar flash
de relleno equilibrado por matriz y flash de relleno equilibrado al
centro además del control de exposición de flash automático TTL
estándar y el control de exposición de flash automático no TTL. El
flash de relleno equilibrado por matriz crea un efecto placentero y
natural llenando las sombras bruscas y resaltando los detalles del
sujeto—y sin perder la correcta exposición del fondo.
Para los detalles, asegúrese de leer el manual de instrucciones del
SB-20 y el manual de instrucciones de su cámara.
Refiérase a las tablas que se indican a continuación para los modos
de flash utilizables en cada combinación de cámara/SB-20.

*La Nikon N8008 se vende exclusivament en Estados Unidos de

América.

Waist-Level Finder DW-20/6X

AE Action Finder DA-20
Visor de acción AE DA-20

A M

@ A

A A A A

@

A A

p

Ph

- - - - - -

A

O

A

- -

o»

A

A A A A

- - -

A A A A

A M

s

o o

A A A A A

- - - . -

o* o

A A A A

@ Elash de iluminación equilibrada por matriz
O Flash de iluminación equilibrada al centro

A Flash estándar TTL

* El modo de exposición cambia automáticamente a A.

Seleccione la apertura manualmente.

• Al usar el DW-20 ó DW-21 se require del cordón remote TTL
SC-24.

@ Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash
O Center-Weighted Fill-Flash
A Standard TTL flash

* Exposure mode automatically shifts to A. Select aperture manually.

• Includes AF Teleconverters, Al-type Nikkor lenses (including Al-S),

A

A

Bellows Focusing Attachment PB-6, Auto Extension Rings, etc.

@ Elash de iluminación equilibrada por matriz
O Flash de iluminación equilibrada al centro
A Flash estándar TTL

* El modo de exposición cambia automáticamente a A. Seleccione la

A

A

apertura manualmente.

• Incluye teleconvertidores AF, lentes Nikkor de tipo Al (incluyendo
Al-S), fuelle de enfoque PB-6, anillos de extensión automática, etc.

Notas:

1. Al usar el iluminador AF de la SB-20 con los lentes Nikkor AF, la
distancia focal es de 24 a 105mm. Este rango cambia de 15 a
58mm cuando se usa el Convertidor AF TC-16A. El rango de
enfoque es de aproximadamente 1 a 8 metros (Con AF de Nikkor
de 50mm f/1,8 a temperaturas normales, para un sujeto estándar
con un 35% de reflectancia).

2. Para fotografía de flash de salto, ajuste el modo de exposición de
la cámara en A o M y seleccione una de las aperturas mayores.

3. Cuando el SB-20 se utiliza para control de exposición de flash
manual, ajuste el modo de exposición de la cámara a A o M y
seleccione manualmente la apertura del diafragma.

Fligh-Magnification Finder DW-21

Visor de pantalla en la parte

superior DW-20/Visor de alta
ampliación 6X DW-21

p

Ph

A

- - - -

A

- -

A A A A A

- - - - -

A

-

s A

- -

- -

- -

- - -

A A A

M

A

FOREWORD=

Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Auto

focus Speedlight SB-20. We hope the SB-20
will make photography a much bigger part
of your life. Get to know your SB-20, but
before using it, be sure to read both your
camera instruction manual and this man
ual. Nikon cannot be held responsible for
malfunctions resulting from use of the

SB-20 other than as specified in this man
ual, or from use of the SB-20 with a camera
made by a manufacturer other than Nikon.

---------------

For Nikon F-401/N4004 camera users

Read the following instructions carefully when using the
SB-20 with F-401/N4004 camera.

1. Nikon F-401/N4004 camera is designed for use with
AF Nikkor lenses, except AF-Nikkor 80mm f/2.8,
200mm f/3.5 IF-ED and Autofocus Converter TC-16/
TC-16A.
For most photos in this manual, aperture is set by
rotating the lens aperture ring. With the F-401/N4004,
however, aperture is set using camera’s aperture dial.
Do not forget to set and lock the lens at its smallest
aperture.
For limited use of non-AF Nikkor lenses, see the
F-401/N4004 instruction manual.

2. Most of the explanations in this manual dealing with
Programmed TTL Auto Flash, TTL Auto Flash, etc.,
apply to shooting dark subjects. Flowever, by setting
the F-401/N4004 to program, aperture-priority or
shutter-priority auto exposure mode, with the SB-20

set to TTL, automatic balanced fill-flash is possible in
situations where fill-flash is effective, even with a
bright subject. For details, see the F-401/N4004 in
struction manual. (In manual exposure mode, ordi
nary TTL fill-flash is possible.)

NOMENCLATURE

Mounting foot

Flash head

Zoom indicator window
Zoom set ring

Light sensor lor non-TTL auto
flash operation

Mounting foot lock nut

Hot-shoe contacts

W (wide) for lenses

28mm or longer

N (normal) for

lenses 35mm or
longer

T (lelephofo) for

' longer

lenses 85mm or

Reflector slot

For bounce flash (see page 41).

Sync/multiple flash terminal

For (1) off-camera operation with
a sync cord and (2) multiple flash
photography in manual flash
operation (page 46)

External power source terminal

Accepts power cord from Nikon DC

Aperture selection/shooting
distance range panel

See pages 18 to 31.

Before using the SB-20,
peel off the protective
paper covering the panel.

Light output index windows

Used in M mode

Aperture index window

Used in A mode

Flash mode indicators

Flash mode selector

.... u TTI mode—for

piuyiaiiiiiiyj 1 ||_

Film speed scale window

Film speed index

Film speed knob

Flash shooting distance range
indicators

The patterned bar (fourth bar from

the top) shows programmed TTL

auto flash information.

Distance scale window

Distance scale selector

Power switch

See page 33.

Open-flash button

For (l) test firing in A mode, (2) multiple

flash exposures (page 42) and (3) to turn on
SB-20 after it is automatically turned off
(page 33).

READY BOUNCE

■ ■

TTL auto flash
operation

■

M mode—for

KBFVnìB

Aperluie index knob/iight output
selector knob

Used in A and M modes

Bounce set indicator

Lights up when flash head is rotated.

Ready-light

See page 34.

manual flash
operation.

BASIC OPERATION

Installing Batteries

Remove battery chamber

' cover.

2 Load four 1.5 V AA-type

' penlight aikaline­manganese batteries or 1.2 V
NiCd batteries into the
battery chamber.

For battery information, see page

50.

3 To reattach battery

' chamber cover, align front
edge of the cover with
battery cover index on the
flash unit, then push cover
down and siide as far as it
goes.

Attaching Flash Unit to Camera Accessory Shoe

^ Turn the mounting foot

' lock nut clockwise as far

as it goes.

With Nikon F3-series cameras with DE-2 or
DE-3 finder: Attach Flash Unit Coupler AS-4 or

AS-7 to camera's accessory shoe before

mounting the SB-20. The SB-20 cannot be
mounted on F3-series camera with the other

finders.

' forward into the camera’s

accessory shoe as far as it
goes.

Slide mounting foot

0_ Tighten lock nut firmly.

Adjusting Flash Head

W(Wide)

For 28mm or longer lenses

N (Normal)

For 35mm or longer lenses

T (Telephoto)

For 85mm or longer lenses

Make sure bounce angle

' set knob is set at 0°.

Rotate zoom set ring until desired zoom setting appears in

' the window.

Make sure zoom set ring is properly set at its click-stop position.

Programmed TTL Auto Flash Shooting (with Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004 or

F-301/N2000) -----

Steps 9 through 11 provide instructions for program

med TTL auto flash shooting with the Nikon F-501/

N2020*, F-401/N4004** or F-301/N2000* camera.-

For other flash exposure operations (TTL auto, non-TTL
auto and manual flash exposure operations) see “SET
TING CAMERA SHUTTER SPEED” on page 17 and

"DETERMINING APERTURE," pages 18 to 32.

* The Nikon N2020 and N2000 are sold exclusively in the

U.SA. and Canadian markets.

’"'The Nikon N4004 is sold exclusively in the U.S.A. market.

For programmed TTL automatic flash opera

tion, note the following:

• Use Al-S type lenses only. With Nikon F-401/
N4004, use only AF-Nikkor lenses, except

AF-Nikkor 80mm f/2.8, 200mm f/3.5 IF-ED
and Autofocus Converter TC-16/TC-16A.

• For autofocus operation, set the Nikon
F-501/N2020’s focus mode selector to S for

Single Servo Autofocus mode, or set the

Nikon F-401 /N4004 to A for autofocus mode.
For details, see pages 14 to 16.

10

-

' '

.........

Q Set the SB-20’s flash mode selector to

TTL.

For the flash shooting range in programmed TTL auto

matic operation, see table on page 21.
The shooting distance range panel at the back of the
SB-20 also helps you to see the flash shooting range.
To read a proper distance range, set the film speed
knob and distance scale selector (see page 19.) A pat
terned bar among the flash shooting distance range

indicators shows the shooting distance range in pro
grammed TTL auto operation.

With F-501/N2020

With F-301/N2000

s

-|Q Set camera to a programmed exposure mode (P DUAL, P

■ or P HI for F-501/N2020; P or P HI for F-301/N2000).

With the Nikon F-401/N4004, set the camera to either program auto
(aperture dial to S, shutter speed dial to A) or shutter-priority auto (aper

ture dial to S, shutter speed dial to desired speed) exposure mode.

Set lens to minimum

’ aperture (largest

f-number).

With AF Nikkor lenses, lock lens
aperture at minimum setting. (See
the lens instruction manual).
With the Nikon F-401/N4004, this
procedure is unnecessary because
the lens is always locked at the
smallest aperture.

11

____

41

TTL mode is selected

12. Set power switch to STBY (standby

‘ position) to turn on SB-20.

LED indicating seiected fiash mode immediately lights
up.

12

13. Lightly press shutter release button and

' viewfinder ready-light comes on to

indicate flash is ready to fire.

For blinking ready-light warnings, see
page 35.

14. Fully depress shutter

' release button to take

picture.

Unless viewfinder ready-light blinks
after the shot, your flash exposure
will be perfecf; if it does blink, pic
ture may be underexposed—
move closer to subject.

Do not fire flash toward or
near the eyes; it may dam

age the retina.

■|5_ Turn off the SB-20.

13

AUTOFOCUS FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY (with Nikon F-501/N2020 or F-401/

In programmed TTL autofocus flash photog
raphy, use film with a film speed specified in
the table below for greater depth of field:

Lens maximum

aperture

Lens
only

F-501/
N2020
with
TC-16A

14

f/2.8 or faster
Slower than f/2.8
f/1.4 or f/1.2
f/1.8,f/2, f/2.5or

f/2.8

Film speed

ISO 50 or faster
ISO 100 or higher
ISO 50 or higher

ISO 100 or higher

. N4004)

•\ _ Set the Nikon F-501/N2020’s focus mode

' selector to S for Single Servo Autofocus

mode, or set the F-401/N4004 to A for auto
focus mode.

Continuous Servo Autofocus cannot be used for auto
focus flash photography.

2. Set aperture.

With Nikon F-401/N4004, use camera’s aperture

dial. Don’t forget to lock lens at minimum position.

For programmed TTL operation, set to smallest lens
aperture (largest f-number) and lock the lens aperture.

(For details, see the lens instruction manual).

For other flash operations, set as follows:

Lens

only

F-501/

N2020
with
TC-16A

Lens maximum

aperture

f/2.8 or faster

Slower than f/2.8

f/1.4or f/1.2

f/1.8, f/2, f/2.5orf/2,8

Aperture setting

f/2.8 or larger f-number
(f/2,8, f/4, f/5.6, etc.)

f/5.6 or larger f-number
(f/5.6, f/8,f/11, etc.)

f/2 or larger f-number
(f/2, f/2.8, f/4, etc.)

f/4 or larger Lnumber
(f/4, f/5.6, f/8, etc.)

15

3 Lightly press camera shutter release

■ button.

When ready-light comes on but ambient light is insuffi
cient for autofocus operation, AF illuminator fires to
start autofocus operation.

If ambient light is sufficient, the AF illuminator does not
fire.

16

^ Confirm whether the green in-focus

' indicator LED iights up, then fuliy depress

the shutter reiease button.

If focus-not-possible indicator LED (x) remains lit

when using the Nikon F-501/N2020, or if focus indi

cator LED (•) blinks with Nikon F-401/N4004, auto
focus fiash photography is impossibie. Focus manuaiiy
on the ciear matte fieid.

SETTING CAMERA SHUTTER SPEED

Set camera’s shutter speed, referring to the table
below.

Nikon camera

F-501/N2020*
F-301/N2000*

F-401/N4004 1/100 or slower

FA

FE2 1/250 or slower

FG

F3-series
(via AS-4 or AS-7
coupler)

FM2 1/250 or slower

FG-20 1/90 or slower

"In TTL mode, programmed TTL auto flash operation will be performed with the Al-S type lens and F-501/N2020 or F-301/N2000 set at programmed

auto exposure mode.

'Improper tor programmed TTL auto flash operation and TTL auto flash operation.

Synchronization

speed (sec.)

1/125 or slower

1/250 or slower

1/90 or slower

1/80 or slower

Camera setting

P DUAL (F-501/N2020 only), P, PHI
A, 1/2000~ 1/250sec.

1/I25~1sec. and B

Shutter dial Aperture dial
A S
A 1.4-32 —
1/2000- 1/125sec. S
1/60-1sec. S
1/2000-1/125sec. 1.4-32
1/60- Isec. and B 1.4-32

All shutter speed settings except
M250 and B in P, S and A modes

1/4000- l/500sec. in M mode
1/250-Isec. in M mode
M250 and B in P, S, A and M

modes**
A, 1/4000-1/500 sec.
1/250-8sec.
M250 and B‘*
P, A, 1/1000-1/125sec.
1/60- Isec
M90 and B**
A
1/2000-1/125 sec.
l/50-8sec. X, Band!
1/250- Isec. and B
A, (C , 1/1000-1/125sec.
1/60~lsec., M90and B

Running shutter

As shown.in the table, automatic sync speed setting is
available with most Nikon cameras.

speed (sec.)

1/125 125 lights up
1/125

125 lights up and LED lor proper non-flash shutter speed blinks
LED tor manually set shutter speed lights up and LED for proper non-flash shutter

as set

speed blinks: no indication at B

1/100

as set
1/100 —
as set —

1/250

LCD shows 250

1/250 LCD shows M250

as set

LCD shows manually set shutter speed

as set No indication

1/250
as set
as set —

1/90 Two LEDs representing 1/90sec. light up

as set

LED for manually set shutter speed lights up

as set

No indication

1/80 LCD shows 80

1/80 LCD shows M80
as set

LCD shows manually set shutter speed. no indication at B or T

as set -

1/90 —
as set -

Viewfinder shutter speed indication

—

-

—

-

—

17

DETERMINING APERTURE

----------------------------------------

TTL Mode
(for TTL Automatic Flash Exposure Control)

TTL mode is for exclusive use with Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004,

F-301/N2000, FA, FE2, and FG cameras only.
For TTL auto flash operation with the Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004,

or F-301/N2000, be sure to set the camera to aperture priority auto or

manual exposure mode.

For correct exposure in TTL mode, use film with a film speed specified in

the table below:

Camera
F-501/N2020 and F-301/N2000
F-401/N4004, FA, FE2 and FG

To determine aperture with the SB-20’s aperture selection/shooting dis
tance range panel for TTL auto flash operation, read the following :

(For programmed TTL auto flash operation, see pages 10 to 11.)

18

Film speed
ISO 25 to 1000
ISO 25 to 400

i Set SB-20’s mode selector

' ■ to TTL.

2 Align film speed in use with the film

' speed index.

For intermediate film speeds, use figure nearest the
film speed in use. With ISO 32 film, for example, set to
ISO 25. With film speeds not listed on the scale, be
sure subjects are sufficiently within the shooting dis
tance range indicated on the back of the SB-20.

3 To read proper shooting distance range,

' set distance scaie seiector to letter shown

in zoom indicator window.

19

Select and set aperture.

' The aperture scale window shows usable apertures. (Depending on
film speed in use, all usable apertures may not be shown in the aperture
scale window; for usable apertures, see table on next page.)

For example, with the film speed index at ISO 100, you can select any
aperture from f/2 to f/22. With the zoom set ring at N, selecting f/4 lets you
take pictures of subjects 1m to 7.5m (approx. 3.3ft. to 25ft.) away.
With Nikon F-401/N4004, use camera’s aperture dial.

20

Next, turn on flash unit and take
shot in the same manner shown in
“BASIC OPERATION,” steps 12 to

15.

Usable apertures/shooting distance range in TTL mode

ISO film speed

1000* 800* 400 200 100 50

2.8 + ‘/3

4 + 1/3

5.6+ 1/3

8 + 1/3

11 +1/3 11

Q.
O

16 + 1/3

22 + 1/3 22

2.8 2

4 2.8 2

5.6 4 2.8 2

8 5.6 4 2.8 2

16 11 8 5.6 4

— —

— —

—

8 5.6

16 11 8 5.6 4

22

16

22 16 11 8

—

— — — —

'For Nikon F-501/N2020 and F-301/N2000 only.

I I = Program med TTL auto flash information.

— — —

—

4

2.8 2

11

22

— —

—

2.8

8 5.6

16 11

25

—

—

With zoom set

at W

2.8-20

(9.2-66)

2.0-15

(6.6-49)

1.4-11

(4.6-36)

1.0-7.8

(3.3-25)

0.7-5.5

(2.3-18)

0.6-3.9

(2.0-13)

0.6-2.7

(2.0-8.9)

0.6-1.9

(2.0-6.2)

0.6-1.4

(2.0-4.6)

0.6-1.0

(2.0-3.3)

Shooting distance range

With zoom set

at N

3.8-20

(12-66)

2.7-20

(8.9-66)

1.9-15

(6.2-49)

1.3-10

(4.3-33)

1.0-7.5

(3.3-25)

0.7-5.3

(2.3-17)

0.6-3.7

(2.0-12)

0.6-2.6

(2.0-8.5)

0.6-1.9

(2.0-6.2)

0.6-1.3

(2.0-4.3)

Unit: m (ft)

With zoom set

alT

4.5-20

(15-66)

3.2-20

(10-66)

2.3-18

(7.5-59)

1.6-12

(5.2-39)

1.2-9.0

(3.9-30)

0.8-6.3

(2.6-21)

0.6-4.5

(2.0-15)

0.6-3.2

(2.0-10)

0.6-2.2

(2.0-7.2)

0.6-1.5

(2.0-5.0)

21

Exposure compensation in TTL mode

With a dark subject (with low reflectivity) or one that is

light in tone (having high reflectivity), over- or under
exposure may occur. To prevent this, compensate

exposure by rotating camera's exposure compensation
dial. With the FG, push the exposure compensation
button. (For details, see camera instruction manual.)
The shooting distance range for TTL automatic flash
operation varies with the amount of exposure compen
sation. For compensated distance range, see table at

right, then reset film speed setting on the back of
SB-20.

For example, wifh ISO 100 film and camera's exposure
compensation dial set at -t-2, read 25 on the table and

reset the SB-20'S film speed index to 25.
With the zoom set ring at N and an aperture of f/4, the
flash shooting distance range—which is 1m to 7.5m at

22

ISO 100—shifts to 0.6 m to 3.7 m at ISO 25.
The Nikon F-401/N4004 has no exposure compensa
tion diai, and compensates exposure with automatic
baianced fili-flash.

Exposure compen-

Film speed in use

25
50
100 25 50
200
400 100 200
800V1000*

•for Nikon F-501/N2020 and F-30UN2000 only.
I' Not possible: make the necessary compensation in

the non-TTL automatic mode (see the following) or
shoot on manual.

value

+ 2 + 1 0 - 1 -2

25 50 100 200

50 100 200 400 800*

200 400 800*

25 50 100

200

100

400 800*

400

A Mode (for Non-TTL Automatic Flash Exposure Control)

Use the SB-20 on A mode for automatic operation with
Nikon cameras other than Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/
N4004*, F-301/N2000, FA, FE2, and FG.
The following procedure lets you select aperture with
the SB-20’s aperture selection/shooting distance range
panel tor non-TTL auto flash operation.

* Non-TTL automatic operation is not possible when
Nikon F-40f/N4004 is set to either program or shutter­priority auto exposure mode.

A-I М rTTL

ПТ Г

■ Il I

.11

_ Set SB-20’s mode selector to A.

23

2_ Align film speed in use with film speed

' index.

For intermediate fiim speeds, use the tigure nearest
the film speed in use. With ISO 32 film, for example, set
to ISO 25. With film speeds not listed on the scale, be
sure subjects are sufficiently within the shooting dis

tance range indicated on the back of the SB-20.

24

3_ To read proper shooting distance range,

' set distance scale selector to letter shown

in zoom indicator window.

4, Select appropriate aperture and set aperture index knob.

The aperture index window shows usable apertures. With the film
speed index at ISO 100, for example, you can select any aperture from f/2
to f/8.
With the zoom set ring at N, if you select f/4, you can take pictures of sub
jects 1m to 7.5m (approx. 3.3ft. to 25ft.) away.

25

5, Set your chosen aperture.

With Nikon F-401/N4004, use camera’s aperture

diai.

26

Next, turn on flash unit and take shot in the same
manner shown in “BASIC OPERATION,” steps 12 to 15.

Usable apertures/shooting distance range in

A mode unit; m (ft)

ISO film speed

1600 800 400 200

8 5.6 4 2,8 2 1.4

11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4

o

11 8 5.6 4

16

«5

22

16

32 22 16 11 8 5.6 4

11

8 5.642.8

100 50 25

Zoom set

1.4-11

-

(4.6-36)

1,0~7.8

(3.3-26)

0.7-5.5

2

2.8
(2,3-18)

0.6-3.9
(2.0-13)

0.6-2,7

(2.0-8.9)

Shooting distance range

Zoom set

at N

1.9-15

(6.2-49)

1.3-10

(4.3-33)

1-7.5

(3.3-25)

0.7-5.3
(2.3-17)

0.6-3.7
(2.0-12)

Zoom set

2,3-18

(7.5-59)

1.6-12

(5.2-39)

1.2-9

(3.9-30)

0.8-6.3

(2.6-21)

0.6-4.5

(2.0-15)

at W

atT

Exposure compensation in A mode

With a dark background (one with low reflectivity) or
one that is light in tone (having high reflectivity), over­or underexposure may occur. To prevent this, compen
sate exposure by stopping down or opening aperture.
With a dark background, stop down the aperture 1/2 to

one full f/stop; when the background is light in tone,
open the aperture 1/2 to one full f/stop.
With the Nikon F-401/N4004, set aperture using the

camera’s aperture dial.

27

M Mode (for Manual Flash Exposure Control)

In M mode, you can choose the

amount of light output: full, 1/2,1/4,

1/8 or 1/16.
To determine aperture and/or light
output with the SB-20’s aperture
selection/shooting distance range
panel tor manual flash operation,

read the following.

-] _ Set the SB-20’s flash

' mode selector to M.

28

Align film speed in use

' with the film speed index.

For intermediate film speeds, use
the figure on the scale nearest the
film speed in use. With ISO 32 film,
for example, set to ISO 25.

3, To read proper shooting

' distance, set distance

scale selector to letter shown
in zoom indicator window.

Choose and set aperture.

The aperture index window shows usabie apertures. For example, with
film speed index set at ISO 100 and the zoom set ring at N, and if you want
to shoot a subject 3m away, you can select any aperture from f/2 to f/8.
You can also determine aperture using the SB-20's guide number (GN).
For details, see page 32.

With Nikon F-401/N4004, use camera’s aperture dial.

29

Set light output selector to appropriate

' setting.

Follow the appropriate vertical line upward from the
distance scale window until it intersects with the hori
zontal distance scale indicator line for the selected
aperture. Then follow the diagonal dotted line upward
to determine the correct light output for the aperture
selected. For example, with the film speed set at ISO

too

and the zoom set ring at N, to shoot a subject 3.7m
away at fM.fire the flash at 1/4 light output. Set the light
output selector so the yellow output index shows “1/4”
in the window below.

30

Next, turn on the flash unit and take shot in the same
manner shown in “BASIC OPERATION,” steps 12 to 15.

To determine light output before selecting aperture

Use the following procedure instead of steps 4 and 5 to determine light output before selecting aperture:

_ Set the light output
' selector so the yellow

light output index indicates

the desired light output.

In the example photo, full light out

put is selected.

2, Determine and set proper iens aperture.

' To determine correct aperture, follow both the vertical line from the
distance scale window and the dotted line from the light output window to
the point of intersection. If the lines do not intersect, move closer to sub
ject or reset light output selector for more light output.
For example, with the film speed index at ISO 100 and zoom set ring at N,
to shoot a subject 10m away at full light output, follow both the vertical line
from figure 10 in the distance scale window and the dotted line from the
light output window to FULL. The two lines intersect at distance range indi
cators for f/2.8

To take intentionally over- or underexposed pictures, open or stop-down

the lens aperture.

—you must set your lens to f/2.8.

31

Guide Number

See the table at right for guide numbers of the film

speeds and zoom settings.
In M mode, use the following equation to determine

aperture:

f/stop =

With ISO 400 film and the zoom set knob at N, the
SB-20’s guide number is 60(m) for full output. If the
subject is 15 m away, divide 60 by 15 to get f/4.

32

guide number

-----------------------------------­flash-to-subject distance

Light output

Full

1/2

1/4

1/8

1/16

Zoom

setting

1600 800 400 200 100 50 25

88

W

(289)62(203)44(144)31(102)22(72)15(49)11(36)

120

N

(394)

144

T

(472)

62

w

(203)

85

N

(279)

102

T

(335)72(236)51(167)36(118)25(82)18(59)13(43)

44

w

(144)31(102)22(72)15(49)11(36)

60

N

(197)

72

T

(236)

31

w

(102)22(72)15(49)11(36)

42

N

(138)30(98)21(69)

51

T

(167)

22

w

(72)15(49)11(36)

30

N

(98)21(69)15(49)11(36)

36

T

(118)25(82)18(59)13(43)9(30)

iSO film speed

85

60

(197)

(279)

102

(335)72(236)

44

(144)

60

(197)

42

(138)30(98)21(69)15(49)11(36)

51

(167)

36

(118)25(82)18(59)13(43)9(30)

(138)30(98)21(69)15(49)

(167)36(118)25(82)18(59)

31

(102)22(72)15(49)11(36)

42

(138)30(98)21(69)15(49)11(36)

36

(118)25(82)18(59)13(43)9(30)

(49)11(36)

7.8

(25)

Unit: m(ft.)

42

51

7.8

(25)

7.8

5.5

(25)

(18)

7.5

(25)

7.8

5.5

(18)

7.5

(25)

3.9

(13)

5.3

(17)

6.3

(21)

3.9

(13)

5.3

(17)

6.3

(21)

2.7

(8.8)

3.7

(12)

4.5

(15)

(25)

15

5.5
(18)

7.5

(25)

SETTING POWER SWITCH

STBY (STANDBY) Position

Use to conserve energy and shorten recycling time.

With Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004, F-301/ N2000, FA, FE2, and FG:

Use the SB-20’s STBY position to turn on the SB-20.
In STBY position, when the camera's meter turns off, in
one or two minutes the SB-20 turns otf automatically.

To turn the SB-20 on again, lightly press the camera’s

shutter release button.

Note: When the Nikon FA or FE2 is connected to Nikon Motor

Drive MD-12 via a remote cord, the camera's meter stays on
and the SB-20 remains on at STBY position.

With other cameras:

Though the ON position is normally recommended for

turning on the flash unit, STBY can also be used.
With other Nikon cameras, even if the camera’s expo
sure meter stays on, the SB-20 automatically turns off

when not used for one or two minutes. To turn on

again, set power switch to ON or OFF position, then
reset to STBY. For convenience, you may also push

the open-flash button to turn on the SB-20.

ON Position

With cameras other than the Nikon F-501/N2020,
F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000, FA, FE2, and FG:

This position is normally used to turn on the SB-20.

With the Nikon FA, FE2, and FG:

To turn on the SB-20 when using mechanical shutter
settings (M250, MOO or B), set power switch to ON.

OFF Position

When not using the flash unit, always set the power
switch to OFF position.

33

READY-LIGHT INDICATIONS

5 7 10 IS 20 30 4050

When the flash unit is turned on, the SB-20's ready-light

lights up to indicate the flash is ready to fire.

To activate the viewfinder ready-light function when

using the Nikon FA, FE2, F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004,
F-301/N2000, FG, or FG-20, first turn on the camera's
meter by lightly pressing the shutter release button.

34

F3-series

With alkaline-manganese batteries, if the ready-light
takes more than 30sec. to light up, replace the bat
teries with a fresh sef.

Ready-Light Warning Functions

To prevent errors, the ready-light inside the camera’s

viewfinder blinks in the cases listed below. When blink

ing occurs, check the SB-20’s flash mode selector
setting, the camera’s shutter speed/mode selector set
ting or film speed setting and adjust as necessary.

1) When SB-20 is set at TTL with cameras other than

Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000,
FA, FE2, or FG. Reset SB-20’s flash mode selector

to A or M.

2) When using the FA, FE2, or FG to perform TTL auto

matic flash photography with the camera’s shutter
speed dial set at a mechanical setting (M250, M90
or B). Reset shutter speed dial to another shutter
speed setting. For M250, MOO or B setting, reset
SB-20's flash mode selector to A or M.

3) When performing programmed TTL auto or TTL

auto flash operation with a camera film speed set
ting beyond the usable range. Use film within the
appropriate range for TTL auto flash photography
(ISO 25 to 400 with the F-401/N4004, FA, FE2 or
FG; ISO 25 to 1000 with the F-501/N2020 or F-301/
N2000). With the FA, ready-light also blinks when

the film speed setting on the oamera is near ISO 12.

4) When shutter speed set on the FE or FM2 is faster
than the flash sync speed. Set the shutter speed to
the flash sync speed or slower one.

5) With the Nikon F-401/N4004, when the built-in flash
and SB-20 are OFF, and when the camera detects

flash is effective, the ready-light in the camera's
viewfinder blinks when the shutter release button is

lightly pressed.

With the SB-20 in TTL or A mode, if both viewfinder

ready-light and SB-20 ready-light blink after taking pic
tures (to warn that lighting might have been insufficient
for correct exposure), confirm subject is within the
flash shooting distance range and, if necessary, use a
wider aperture or move closer to the subject.
With the Nikon F-401/N4004, for scenes where the
background is extremely bright, the ready-light may

not blink after the shot, even if flash is insufficient for
correct exposure.
With weak batteries, ready-lights blink to indicate in
sufficient flash power, even if the subject is within
the shooting distance range; replace batteries with
a fresh set.

35

SYNCHRO-SUNLIGHT FILL-IN FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

For backlit subjects, to fill in shadows and balance
lighting, use the SB-20 even in daytime.

In the following, use a slower shutter speed to
avoid a dark background.

Without flash:

The backlit subject
comes out too dark.

By setting the F-401 /
N4004 to program,
aperture-priority or
shutter-priority auto
exposure mode, with
the SB-20 set to TTL,

automatic balanced
fill-flash is possible in
situations where fill-flash

is effective, even with a
bright subject. For details,
see the F-401/N4004

With flash:

Both the subject
and the background
come out properly
exposed.

36

instruction manual.
(In manual exposure
mode, ordinary TTL fill-

flash is possible.)

In TTL Mode

1. Set the camera shutter speed manually to a flash

synchronization speed or slower speed.

2. Frame the background in the camera viewfinder,
turn on the camera’s exposure meter to determine
aperture for a correct background exposure, then
set the aperture on the lens.

3. Set the flash mode selector to TTL, turn on the
SB-20 and take the shot.

With a strongly backlit subject (e.g., scene which in
cludes the sun), it may be difficult to obtain desired
exposure balance. In this case, use the SB-20 in M

mode.

Note: Do not use programmed TTL flash operation for fill-in

flash photography.

In A Mode

1. Determine correct aperture for the backlit subject

(according to method on page 25) by referring to the
SB-20’s aperture selection/distance range panei,
then set both the aperture index and the aperture on
the iens.

2. Frame the background in the camera viewfinder and
turn on camera meter to determine proper shutter
speed for the aperture set on the lens. The shutter
speed must be equal to or slower than the flash sync
speed—without a proper shutter speed you cannot
perform fill-in flash photography in A mode.

3. Set the shutter speed from step 2 on camera’s
shutter speed dial.

4. Set the flash mode selector to A, turn on the flash

unit and take the shot.
With a strongly backlit subject, perform fill-in flash
photography in M mode.

37

In M Mode

1. Manually set the camera shutter speed to a flash

synchronization speed or slower speed.

2. Frame the background In the camera’s viewfinder,
then turn on the camera’s exposure meter to read

proper aperture for correct background exposure,

and set the aperture on the lens.

3. Calculate the flash-to-subject distance using the
equation below and set the SB-20 at the calculated
distance.

flash-to-subject =

* For guide number, see page 32.

4. Set the SB-20’s flash mode selector to M, turn on the
flash unit and take the shot.

38

guide number*

f/stop

To eliminate harsh shadows caused by ambient

daylight, decrease fiash iilumination by one or
two f/stops using one of the methods below.

1. Use an aperture one or two t/stops smaller
than that determined in step 2 in combina
tion with a shutter speed slower by one or
two steps.

2. Reduce the amount of light output by one or
two steps by resetting the light output selec

tor knob.

3. Use a flash-to-subject distance from 1.4 to
two times longer than that determined using
the equation in step 3.

DIFFUSING THE LIGHT

Diffused light eliminates harsh shadows and creates

attractive portraits. There are two ways to diffuse light:

1. Bounce light off a broad reflective surface such as
the ceiling;

2. Use a diffuser between the flash and the subject.

Direct flash: Harsh, unflattering
lighting.

Bounce flash: Soft, natural-looking
lighting.

39

Bounce Flash Photography Procedure

1. Select a ceiling to bounce the flash from. In color

photography, selecf a white or silver ceiling—other
wise, color photographs come out with an unnatural
color cast similar to that of the reflecting surface.

2. Rotate the flash head upwards, towards the ceiling.
To avoid uneven illumination, rotate flash head back
60° or more.

3. Set flash mode selector to TTL for TTL auto flash
operation-or A for non-TTL auto flash operation, then
turn on the flash unit. The bounce indicator lights up.

4. Choose an aperture and perform a test firing. If the
ready-light blinks after test firing, indicating under

exposure may occur at the aperture set on the lens,

use a wider aperture or reduce the bounce distance

and test fire the flash again.

40

5. Bracket your exposures. You are recommended to

take additional shots with the camera's exposure
compensation dial set in the + or - direction (not
possible with Nikon F-401/N4004) for TTL auto flash
operation or with the lens opened up or stopped
down one or two f/stops for non-TTL auto flash
operation.

' mée. te«* s

rsM «rs !-

~X^T

\V\V'

To create a catchlight for the subject’s
eyes: Insert white paper into the SB-20’s re

flector slot so a small amount of direct illumi
nation fills in unfiattering shadows around the
eyes.

Using A Diffuser

Place a translucent material, such as one or more

sheets of tracing paper, between the flash and subject
to diffuse light. It is recommended that you experiment
with different flash-to-diffuser distances andtor more
than one diffuser.

Use the SB-20 on TTL or M mode when using a diffuser.

41

SYNCHRONIZATION WITH

--------------------

MOTOR-DRIVEN CAMERA

In M mode, you can perform sequential flash shootings
with a motor driven camera at up to 4.2fps (frames per
second).
The maximum number of flashes for continuous shoot
ing are listed below.

Batteries

AA-type alkaline-manganese
batteries inside SB-20

AA-type alkaline-manganese

batteries Inside SB-20 plus
C-type alkaline-manganese
batteries inside optional

DC Unit SD-7**

* When the SB-20 is charged for SOsec. after the ready-

light lights up; at4.2fps with fresh batteries: at 20°C
(68°F)

‘"'For details about the SD-7, see page 52.

‘"‘"'M ore flashes possible, but never fire the flash more than

40 times. Before firing the flash again, stop using for
more than 10 minutes.

42

Light output

1/4
1/8 4

1/16 8

1/4 4
1/8 10

1/16

Maximum
number of

fiashes*

2

40***

MULTIPLE FLASH EXPOSURES

To create multiple-exposure “stroboscopic” effects or

paint the scene with light, use the following procedure:

1. Disconnect the flash unit from the camera body.

2. Set the camera at B (bulb).

3. Push the open-flash button repeatedly—as many

times as desired.

MULTIPLE FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

■ I ■

^1

TTL Multiple Flash Photography

Use the Nikon Speedlight SB-22, SB-20, SB-18,

SB-16B or SB-15 connected to an F-501/N2020,

F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000, FA, FE2, or FG camera
as a master flash unit; and use either the SB-22,
SB-21 B, SB-20, SB-18, SB-17, SB-16A, SB-16B and/or
SB-15 as slave flash unit(s). Up to five flash units can
be used.
For TTL multiple flash photography, use fhe opfional
TTL Mulfi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18 (l.5m) and/or SC-19
(3m) to conned fhe flash units via the TTL multiple

flash terminal. Because the SB-22, SB-21 B, SB-20,
SB-18 and SB-15 are not provided with a TTL multiple
flash terminal, it is necessary to use TTL Remote Cord
SC-17 when using these flash units as a master flash
unit. To use the SB-22, SB-20, SB-18 and/or SB-15 as
slave flash units, use the AS-10. When using the
SB-140, SB-14 and/or SB-11 for TTL multiple flash
photography, you should also use TTL Remote Cord
SC-23. With the Nikon F-401/N4004, programmed TTL
auto flash and TTL auto flash are not possible with the
SB-11/14/140 (even with the SC-23) or SB-21. They
cannot be used for TTL multi-flash either, even as a
slave flash unit.
See the system chart on the next page.

43

System chart for TTL multiple flash operation

AS-11 AS-11 AS-10

45

Manual Multiple Flash Photography

Connect the SB-20 and other flash units with the
optional Nikon Sync Cord SC-11 or SC-15 via the
SB-20’s multiple flash terminal.
For correct exposure in manual multiple flash opera
tion, be sure all flash units are set at manual flash mode.

Caution

To avoid damaging the flash units or incorrect operation,
never mix Nikon Speedlight with flash units of other manu
facturers.

46

AVOIDING ‘RED EYE”

“Red eye” is a common phenomenon in flash photog

raphy where the center portions of a subject's eyes
appear as bright red orbs in coior photographs, or
white in black-and-white pictures.
To avoid “red eye,” take any or all of the following pre
cautions:

•Ask the subject not to look directly into the lens when

the picture is taken.

• Using a sync cord or TTL Remote Cord SC-17, remove

the flash unit from the camera and hold it as far away
from the camera as possible.

•Increase the overall room illumination to reduce

opening of the subject's pupils.

______________

CLOSE-UP FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY IN TTL MODE

When used with the Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004,

F-301/N2000, FA, FE2 or FG camera, the optionai TTL
Remote Cord SC-17 iets you perform fiash shooting

with a subject cioser than 0.6m.

1. Use the SC-17 to connect the SB-20 and camera.
(See SC-17 instruction manuai.)

2. Position the SB-20 and rotate the flash head so light
from the flash head covers the subject.

3. Regardless of the lens in use, set the zoom set ring

so “W” appears in the zoom indicator window.

4. To determine aperture, use the following equation:

f/stop£--------------------------------------

flash-to-subject distance

where A corresponds to the film in use according to
the table below:

A

If you are using ISO 100 film for example, and the

flash-to-subject distance is 0.5m, divide 4 by 0.5 to

get f/8. That means you can use an aperture of f/8 or
smaller. Use as small an aperture as possible.

5. Set the flash mode selector to TTL, turn on the SB-20
and take the shot.

With very light- or dark-toned subjects, make expo
sure compensation with the camera’s exposure com
pensation dial.

ISO film speed

A

•For F-501/N2020 and F-301/N2000 only.

25 32 40

2 2.2

50 64

2.5 2,8 3.2

80

100 125 160

3.5 4 4.4

200 250 320

5 5.6

6.3 7.1 8

400 500* 640*

8.9 10.1 11

800* 1000*

13

47

TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHT CARE

•To remove smudges, wipe with a
dry soft or silicon-treated cloth.
Never use thinner, benzine or
aicohoi—they might damage
plastic parts.

48

• Never disassemble or repair the
flash unit; if the SB-20 malfunc
tions, take it immediately to an
authorized Nikon dealer or ser
vice center.

• Keep the SB-20 away from places
where temperature is higher than
50°C, and do not store in damp
places. Use within the range of

-10‘’C~-t-50°C.

•Keep the SB-20 away from salt
wafer and out of the rain.

• When not using the SB-20, re
move batteries to avoid damage

due to battery leakage. If leakage
occurs, fake the SB-20 to your
nearest Nikon authorized service
facility.

•When the SB-20 is not used, per
form the following once a month:

1. Install batteries, turn on the
SB-20 and fire flash a few

times.

2. Wait until the ready-light comes
on.

3. Turn off the SB-20, and remove
the batteries.

49

ABOUT BATTERIES

------------------------------

New batteries

Purchase the new (freshest) batteries possible.

Temperature

Battery life ratings are based on operation at 20°C

(68° F). At other temperatures, battery life is shortened.

For low temperature operation, keep spare batteries
and if possible, use NiCd batteries.

Continuous use

Batteries are drained much more quickly by continu
ous use than by intermittent use.

Storage

store batteries in a cool, dry place below 20°C (68°F).

Battery brand

Do not mix battery brands or model numbers, or new

and old batteries.

Disposai

Do not dispose of batteries by burning, and never dis
assemble batteries.

50

NiCd batteries

In comparison with regular batteries, NiCd batteries

provide faster recycling time and better efficiency at

low temperatures.
Before charging NiCd batteries, thoroughly read in
structions for batteries and battery charger.

'Batteries with a "+ " terminat that exceeds 6mm in diame-

ter cannot be used-

ACCESSORIES

-----------------------------------

Sync Cords SC-11 and SC-15

For off-camera or manual multiple lighting setups or to
connect the SB-20 to a camera without a hot shoe use
sync cord SC-11 (25cm long) or coiled sync cord SC-15

(one meter long).

TTL Remote Cord SC-17

For programmed TTL auto flash operation or TTL auto

flash operation when using the SB-20 off the Nikon

F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000, FA, FE2 or
FG camera, use coiled cord SC-17. The SC-17 ensures

automatic sync speed setting and ready-light veiw­finder indication just as if the flash unit were directly
mounted on the camera. Comes with two TTL multiple

flash terminals and one tripod socket.

TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10

When using the SB-20, SB-18 or SB-15 as a slave flash
unit or when using more than three flash units, use the
AS-10. Comes with three multiple flash terminals and
one tripod socket.

SC-17

AS-10

Ì» <»

51

TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cords SC-18 and SC-19

Use the SC-18 or SC-19 to connect flash units in TTL
multiple flash operation. The SC-18 is approx. 1.5m
long; the SC-19 is approx. 3m.

Flash Unit Couplers AS-4 and AS-7

To mount the SB-20 on a Nikon F3-series camera with
the DE-2 or DE-3 tinder, use the AS-4 or AS-7. The AS-7

lets you change film without removing the flash unit.

DC Unit SD-7

The Nikon DC Unit SD-7 is an optional external power
source. To use it, connect the SD-7’s power cord SC-16
to the SB-20’s external power terminal. Even when
powered with the SD-7, the SB-20 still requires bat
teries inside the flash unit—do not remove the

batteries.

52

AS-4

SC-18

AS-7

SD-7

SPECIFICATIONS

All performance data are for normal-temperature operation
[20°C (68°F)]

Electronic
construction
Guide number
(at manuai fuii iight
output)
Zoom capability

Angie of coverage

Zoom set

ring position

W (wideangle) 53°
N (normal) 45°
T (telephoto) 23“

Horizontal

Bounce capabiiity
Flash duration

Light output

(approx.)

Full

1/2
1/4
1/8
1/16

Automatic silicon-controlled
rectifier and series circuitry

30 (ISO too

49

(ISO

and meters) or

25 and feet) with the
zoom set ring at N ■
Three settings: W for
wideangle, N for normal and
T for telephoto

Vertical

70“

28 mm or longer

60“

35 mm or longer

31“

85mm or longer

Flash head can be rotated
down to -7° or up to 90“

Flash duration (approx.)

1/1200sec.

1/1500 sec.

1/3700sec.
1/7400 sec.
1/15000 sec.

Usable lens

Power source

Power switch

Four 1.5V AA-type alkaline­manganese or NiCd batteries:

optional Battery Pack SD-7

holding six C-type batteries is
available as an external
power source
Three positions are pro
vided—OFF, STBY (for
standby) and ON; at STBY
position with the Nikon F-501/
N2020, F-401/N4004, F-301/
N2000, FA, FE2 or FG, SB-20
turns off automatically when
flash unit is not used for one or

two minutes and turns on when

camera exposure meter is on

53

Number of flashes and recycling time at manual

full light output

Battery type

AA-type

alkaline-manganese

AA-type NiCd

C-type alkaline-

manganese inside
the optional SD-7**

'For autofocus operation assisted by the AF illum inator,

less number of flashes available.

'With four AA-type alkaline-manganese batteries instailed

in the SB-20

Flash exposure

control
TTL mode

Number of flashes

(approx.)*

160 times

60 times 4sec.

Up to 40 times
Up to 200 times 5 sec.
Up to 400 times
Up to 450 times

Three flash modes are

provided: TTL, A and M
Used only with Nikon F-501/

Recycling time

(approx.)

6 sec.

3sec,

10 sec.
30 sec.

N2020, F-401/N4004, F-301/
N2000, FA, FE2 or FG; for pro

grammed TTL auto flash oper
ation (with F-501/N2020, F-401/

N4004 or F-301/N2000 only) or

TTL auto flash operation; light

is measured through the lens

54

Usable film speed
range in TTL mode

ISO 25 to 1000 with Nikon
F-501/N2020 and F-301/
N2000 or ISO 25 to 400 with
Nikon F-401/N4004, FA, FE2,
and FG

Usable aperture

f/2tof/22 (at ISO 100)

range in TTL mode
A mode

For non-TTL auto flash oper

ation; light is measured via

light sensor in front of fhe

flash unit

Usable apertures in
A mode

f/2, f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6 and f/8
(at ISO 100)

Shooting distance range in A mode

Aperture

f/2 1.9-15(6.2-49)
f/2.8 1.3-10(4.3-33)
f/4
f/5.6
f/8 0.6-3.7 (2.0-12)

M mode

Shooting distance range at ISO

too and zoom set ring set at N

1.0-7.5(3.3-25)

0.7-5.3(2.3-17)

For manual flash operation;
amount of light output can be
varied in five sfeps

Unit: m (ft.)

AF assist LED Automatically fires LED

beam toward the subject
when performing autofocus
with the Nikon F-501/N2020
(Single Servo) or F-401/N4004
camera in insufficient iight

Dimensions

Approx. 71 (W)x110(H)x
70(D)mm (2.7x4.3x2.7 in)

Weight

Approx. 260g (9.1oz)
(without batteries)

Accessories provided

Specifications and designs are subject to change without
notice.

Soft Case SS-20

55

No reproduction in any form of this manual, in
whole or in part (except tor brief quotation in critical
articles or reviews), may be made without written
authorization from NIKON CORPORATION.

Nikon

NIKON CORPORATION

FUJI BLDG., 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO 100, JAPAN

PHONE: [phone] TELEX: NIKON J22601 FAX: [phone]

Printed in Japan 9&221-C03(S136)