Nikon SB-22 User Manual

Nikon

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INSTRUCTION MANUAL

=CONTENTS=

FOREWORD
NOMENCLATURE
BASIC OPERATION

Installing Batteries
Attaching Flash Unit to Camera Accessory Shoe
Programmed TTL Auto Flash Shooting

Flash Shooting

AUTOFOCUS FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

(with Nikon F-501/N2020 or F-401/N4004) ... 13-15

SETTING CAMERA SHUTTER SPEED
DETERMINING APERTURE

TTL Mode

A1 or A2 Mode (for Non-TTL Automatic Flash

M Mode (for Manual Flash Exposure Control)... 26-28
MD Mode (for Manual Flash Exposure Control

Guide Number........................................................32

SETTING POWER SWITCH

STBY (STANDBY) Position

ON Position............................................................33

OFF Position...........................................................33

READY-LIGHT INDICATIONS................................34-35

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

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

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

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

(with Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004 or
F-301/N2000)

(for TTL Automatic Flash Exposure Control).... 17-21

Exposure Control)........................................... 22-25

with Motor Drive Operation).............................29-32

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

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

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

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

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

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

.... 3

. 4-6

7-12

.... 7

.........

9-10

11-12

16

17-32

Ready-Light Warning Functions

USING WIDE-FLASH ADAPTER................................. 36

SYNCHRO-SUNLIGHT FILL-IN FLASH

PHOTOGRAPHY................................................ 37-39

8

In TTL Mode......................................................... 38

In A1 or A2 Mode...................................................38

In M Mode.............................................................39

DIFFUSING THE LIGHT

Bounce Flash Photography Procedure

Using A Diffuser.....................................................42

MULTIPLE FLASH EXPOSURES
MULTIPLE FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

TTL Multiple Flash Photography..........................43-45

Manual Multiple Flash Photography

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

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

TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHT CARE
ABOUT BATTERIES

ACCESSORIES.................................................... 51-52

Sync Cords SC-11 and SC-15

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

33

TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10

33

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

Flash Unit Couplers AS-4 and AS-7......................... 52

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

SPECIFICATIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

40-42

43-46

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

48-49

...........

53-54

35

41

42

46

50

51

51
52

—FOREWORD—

Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Auto
focus Speedlight SB-22. We hope the SB-22
will make photography a much bigger part
of your life. Get to know your SB-22, 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-22 other than as specified in this man
ual, or from use of the SB-22 with a camera

made by a manufacturer other than Nikon.

J

For Nikon F-401/N4004 camera users

Read the following instructions carefully when using the
SB-22 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. However, by setting
the F-401/N4004 to program, aperture-priority or
shutter-priority auto exposure mode, with the SB-22
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

Bounce angle indicators

For bounce flash shooting,
see page 41.

Battery cover indices

Battery chamber cover

Mounting foot

Flash head

Autofocus assist illuminator LED

See pages 13 to 15.

Light sensor for non-TTL auto
flash operation

External power source terminal

Accepts power cord from Nikon DC
Unit SD-7.

Mounting foot lock nut

Hot-shoe contacts

Wide-flash adapter lock button

Sync/multiple flash terminal

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

Wide-flash adapter

Covers the picture angle of lenses
28 mm or longer. Slides out and covers
the flash head (see page 36).

Aperture selectlon/shooting
distance range panel

See pages 17 to 31.

Before using the SB-22,
peel off the protective
paper covering the panel.

Aperture index windows

Used in automatic operation.

Aperture scale window

Film speed scale window

Film speed index

Film speed setting knob

Distance scale window

Flash mode indicators

Flash mode selector

Aperture/distance index
windows for MD mode

Flash shooting distance range
indicators

The patterned bar (fourth bar from
the top) shows programmed TTL
auto flash information.

Normal (35mm)/Wide (28 mm)
index windows

Ready-light

See page 34.

Bounce set indicator

Blinks when flash head is tilted.

Power switch

See page 33.

Open-flash button

For (1) test firing in At or A2 mode,
(2) multiple flash exposure (page 42)
and (3) to turn on SB-22 after it is
automatically turned off (page 33).

BASIC OPERATION

Installing Batteries

“I, Slide down the battery

' chamber cover and lift

it out.

2, Load four 1.5V AA-type

' penlight alkaline-

manganese or manganese
batteries or 1.2 V NiCd bat
teries into the battery

0^ To reattach battery

‘ chamber cover, align the

black indices on the cover

and flash unit, then slide the
cover up as far as it goes.

chamber.

For battery information, see page

50.

f As an external power source, Nikon DC Unit ^
I SD-7 is optionally available. See page 52. I

Attaching Flash Unit to Camera Accessory Shoe

Turn the mounting foot

‘ lock nut clockwise as far

as it goes.

' forward into the camera’s

accessory shoe as far as it
goes.

With Nikon FS-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-22. The SB-22 cannot be
mounted on F3-series camera with the other
finders.

Slide mounting foot

0_ Tighten lock nut firmly.

Programmed TTL Auto Flash Shooting (with Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004 or F-301/N2000)

Steps 7 through 9 provide instructions for programmed
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 16 and

“DETERMINING APERTURE," pages 17 to 32.

* The Nikon N2020 and N2000 are sold exclusively in the

U.S.A. and Canadian markets.

** The Nikon N4004 is sold exclusively in the U.S.A. market.

7 Set the SB-22’s flash mode selector

''\o TTL.

— — — — — For the flash shooting range in programmed TTL auto

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 13 to 15. '

matic operation, see the table on page 20.
The patterned bar in the middle of the flash shooting
distance range indicators also shows the flash shoot
ing range in programmed TTL automatic operation.
To read the programmed aperture, set the film speed
knob. The figure at the left of the patterned bar is the
programmed aperture.

With F-501/N2020 With F-301/N2000

g 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.

10

0 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.

Flash Shooting

m 0.6 1 1.5 2

ft 2 3 4 5 7

POWER p

ICE OFF^STBY^ON

ISO 100) 26(m)/82(ft)

TTL mode is selected

■|Q_Set power switch to STBY (standby

' position) to turn on SB-22.

LED indicating selected flash mode immediately lights
up.

Make sure bounce angle is set at 0°

If the flash head is tilted,
the bounce set Indicator
blinks. For bounce flash
photograph, see page

41.

11

■^2.Lightly press shutter

‘release button and view

finder ready-light comes on
to indicate flash is ready to
fire.

For blinking ready­light warnings, see
page 35.

\ »

12

13. Fully depress shutter

' release button to take

picture.

Unless viewfinder ready-iight blinks

after the shot, your flash exposure
will be perfect; if it does blink, pic
ture may be underexposed—

\

move closer to subject.

^ Do not fire flash toward or 1

• near the eyes; it may dam- I

I age the retina. I
I I

■|4.Turn off the SB-22.

AUTOFOCUS FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY (with Nikon F-501/N2020 or F-401/N4004)-

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

Lens

only

F-501/
N2020
with
TC-16A

Lens maximum

aperture

f/2.8or faster ISO 50 or higher
Slower than f/2.8 ISO too or higher
f/1,4 or f/1.2 ISO 50 or higher
f/1.8. f/2, f/2.5or

f/2.8

Film speed

ISO too or higher

\

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.

13

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).

14

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/1.4 or f/1.2

f/1.8, f/2, f/2,5or f/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 f-number

(f/4, f/5.6, f/8, etc.)

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.

^ 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 flash photography is impossible. Focus manually
on the clear matte field.

15

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

FA

FE2 1/250 or slower

FG 1/90 or slower

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

coupler)

FM2 1/250 or slower

FG-20 1/90 or slower

*ln TTL mode, programmed TTL auto flash operation will be performed with theAl-S type lens and F-501/N2020or F-301/N2000 set at programmed

auto exposure mode.

‘Improper for programmed TTL auto flash operation and TTL auto flash operation.

Synchronization

speed (sec.)

1/125 Of Slower

1/100 or slower

1/80 or slower

Camera setting

POUAL(F-501/N2020only),P,PHI 1/125
A, 1/2000~1/250sec.

1/125->1sec. andB as set

Shutter dial
A
A 1.4-32
1/2000-1/125 sec.
1/60-1 sec. S
l/2000-l/l25sec. 1.4-32 1/100
1/60- Isec, and B 1.4-32 as set
All shutter speed settings except

M250 and B in P, S and A modes
1/4000- 1/500sec, in M mode 1/250 LCD shows M250
1/250- Isec. in M mode as set
M250and B in P, S, A and M

modes**
A, 1/4000-1/500 sec. 1/250
1/250-8sec.
M250 andB**
P.A. 1/1000-1/125S6C.
1/60-Isec
M90 and B**

A
1/2000-1/125sec. 1/80 LCD shows M80
1/60~8sec. X. BandT
1/250-1 sec. and B
A, ((* , 1/1000-1/125sec.
1/60~1sec., M90andB

Aperture dial
S

S

Running shutter

16

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

speed (sec.)

125 lights up

1/125 125 lights up and LED for proper non-flash shutter speed blinks

LEO for manually set shutter speed lights up and LED for proper non-flash shutter
speed blinks: no indication at B

1/100

as set

1/250 LCD shows 250

LCD shows manually set shutter speed

as set No indication

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

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

1/90
as set

Viewfinder shutter speed indication

—
—
—
—
—
—

—

-

—

—

-

-

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-22’s aperture selection/shooting dis
tance range panel for TTL auto flash operation, read the following:
(For programmed TTL auto flash operation, see pages 9 to 10.)

Film speed
ISO 25 to 1000
ISO 25 to 400

Set SB-22’s mode selector

'to TTL.

17

2. Align film speed in use

'with the fiim speed index.

Note: Lines between the numbers on
the film speed scale represent inter

mediate settings. (See illustration.)

32

40'

64

25

80

50

125.

' "100

160

200

250

400

320

^ y-

500'^r

640'^- 16oa

1000'

1250'

Ifl

3_ Seiect 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 page 20.)

For example, with the film speed index at ISO 100, you can select any

aperture from f/2 to f/22. Selecting f/4 lets you take pictures of subjects

0.8m to 6.2m (approx. 2.6ft. to 30ft.) away.

Next, turn on flash unit and

take shot in the same man

ner shown in “BASIC OPER

ATION,” steps 10 to 14.

The shooting distance scaie
changes when the wide-fiash
adapter is used. For example,
selecting f/4 lets you take pictures
of subjects 0.6 m to 4.4 m (approx.

2.0ft. to 14ft.) away. See page 36.

4 Set your chosen aperture.

’ With Nikon F-401/N4004, use

camera's aperture dial.

19

Usable apertures/shooting distance range in TTL mode Unit: m (ft)

ISO film speed Shooting distance range

1000* 800* 400 200 100 50 25

Normal With wide-flash adapter

2.8 + ‘/3

4 + >/3

5.6+ '/3

8 + '/3

Q.

11 +>/3

O
(/>

16 + >/3

22 + >/3

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

I I = Programmed TTL auto flash information.

2.8 2

4

2.8 2

5.6 4

8 5.6 4 2.8 2

—

2.8

11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 0.8-6.2(2.6-20)

11 8

16

22 16 11 8 5.6

22

—

—

— — —

— — — —

16

22 16

20

—

— —

— — —

2

— —

5.6

4 2.8 0.6-4.4 (2.0-14) 0.6-3.1 (2.0-10)

11 8

11

22 16 11 0.6-1.1 (2.0-3.6)

3.2-20(10-66) 2.2-17(7.2-56)

2.2-17(7.2-56)

1.6-12(5.2-39) 1.1-8.8(3.6-29)

1.1-8.8(3.6-29) 0.8-6.2(2.6-20)

—

4

0.6-3.1 (2.0-10) 0.6-2.2(2.0~7.2)

0.6-2.2(2.0-7.2) 0.6-1.5(2.0-5.0)

5.6

8 0.6-1.5 (2.0-5.0)

1.6-12(5.2-39)

0.6-4.4 (2.0-14)

0.6-1.1 (2.0-3.6)

0.6-0.7(2.0-2.3)

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 comperisated distance range, see table at

right, then reset film speed setting on the back of
SB-22.

For example, with ISO 100 film and camera's exposure
compensation dial set at -i-2, read 25 on the table and

reset the SB-22's film speed index to 25.
With an aperture of f/4, the flash shooting distance

range—which is 0.8m to 6.2m (2.6ft. to 20ft.) at ISO

100—shifts to 0.6m to 3.1 m (2.0ft. to 10ft.) at ISO 25.
The Nikon F-401/N4004 has no exposure compensa
tion dial, and compensates exposure with automatic
balanced fill-flash.

Exp osure co mp en -

^ ^tion va lue

Film spee d In u se ^

25 25
50
100 25 50 100
200
400
800*/1000*

-For Nikon F-501/N2020 and F-301/N2000 only.
Not possible: make the necessary compensation in
the non-TTL automatic mode (see the following) or
shoot on manual.

+1

+ 2

50

100 200 400 800’

200 400 800’

0

25 50 100 200

100

200

200 400 800*

-1

50 100

400

-2

21

A1 or A2 Mode (for Non-TTL Automatic Flash Exposure Control)

Use the SB-22 on A1 or A2 mode for automatic oper
ation 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-22’s aperture selection/shooting distance

range panel for non-TTL auto flash operafion.

*Non-TTL automatic operation is not possible when Nikon

F-401/N4004 is set to either program or shutter-priority auto
exposure mode.

22

_ Align film speed in use with film speed ' index.

Note: Lines between the numbers on the film speed scale
represent intermediate settings. (See illustration.)

32\

64^-25

80s

125v

' vrlOO

160-

-200

250-

^ -E400

320^

0//E 800

500^

640'^- 16oo

1000^

1250/

2,Select appropriate aperture

The aperture index windows show usable apertures. With the
film speed index at ISO 100, for example, you can select either
aperture f/4 or f/8.
If you select f/4, you can take pictures of subjects 0.8m to 6.2m

(approx. 2.6ft. to 20ft.) away.

The shooting distance scale
changes when the wide-flash
adapter is used. For example, if
you select f/4, you can take pic
tures of subjects 0.6 m to 4.4 m
(approx. 2.0ft. to 14ft.) away. See
page 36.

I

23

Next turn on flash unit and take

shot in the same manner shown

in “BASIC OPERATION,” steps 10

to 14.

3,Set SB-22’s mode selector

'to A1 or A2 according to

the selected aperture.

24

^ Set your chosen aperture.

' With Nikon F-401/N4004, use

camera’s aperture dial.

Shooting distance range in A1 or A2 mode

Regardless of the film speed and the corresponding
f/stop available at At or A2, the auto shooting range is
as shown in the following table.

Auto shooting range

Selector mode Normal

At
A2

0.6-3.1 m

0.8-6.2m

With wide-flash

adapter

0.6-2.2m

0.6-4.4m

Exposure compensation in A1 or A2 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.

25

M Mode (for Manual Flash Exposure Control)

In M mode, the SB-22 fires at its

maximum light output regardless
of the flash-to-subject distance.
To determine aperture with the
SB-22's aperture selection/shoot-

ing distance range panei for

manual flash operation, read the
following.

26

Set the SB-22’s flash
mode selector to M.

2 Align film speed in use

‘ with the film speed index.

Note: Lines between the numbers on
the film speed scale represent inter
mediate settings. (See illustration.)

32\

:400

320

800

500^

640//'-16oo

IOOQ/

125q/

3, Choose aperture.

Determine the shooting distance and follow the appropriate
vertical line upward from the distance scale until it meets the right
edge of one of the distance range indicators. Then follow the dis
tance range indicator horizontally and you can find the appropriate
aperture. For example, with film speed index set at ISO 100, and if
you want to shoot a subject 3 m away, use f/8.
You can also determine aperture using the SB-22’s guide number
(GN). For details, see page 32.

The shooting distance scale
changes when the wide-flash
adapter is used. For example,
if you want to shoot a subject 3 m
away, use f/5.6. See page 36.

I ^

I

27

Set your chosen aperture.

With Nikon F-401/N4004, use camera's aper

ture dial.

28

Next, turn on flash unit and take shot in the same
manner shown in “BASiC OPERATiON," steps 10 to 14.

MD Mode (for Manual
Flash Exposure Control

with Motor Drive
Operation)

At the motor drive (MD) setting,
the SB-22 is able to recycle fast
enough to synchronize with a
motor-driven camera firing con
tinuously up to 6 frames per
second. It is possible to take up to
four full flash pictures in rapid
succession in this way.
To determine aperture with the
SB-22’s aperture selection/shoot­ing distance range panel in this
mode, read the following.

: SPEEDLiGHT SB-22 ^

It

_ Set the SB-22’s flash

mode selector to MD.

2,Align film speed in use

'with the film speed index.

Note: Lines between the numbers on
the film speed scale represent inter

mediate settings. (See illustration.)

32\

125$^^ I“-

И00

160-

:200

250—E‘

E400

зго'^1^

ьпо-у- 800

640^- 16oo

1000''

1250'

29

3, Choose aperture.

Determine the shooting distance and follow the appropriate
vertical line upward from the distance scale until it meets one of
the aperture/distance index windows for MD mode on the distance

range indicators. Then follow the distance range indicator hori
zontally and you can find the appropriate aperture. For example,
with film speed index set at ISO 100, and if you want to shoot a
subject 3 m away, use f/2.8.
You can also determine aperture using the SB-22’s guide number
(GN). For details, see page 32.

30

The shooting distance scale
changes when the wide-flash
adapter is used. For example, if
you want to shoot a subject 3 m
away, use f/2. See page 36.

I •• *

^ Set your chosen aperture.

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

ture dial.

Next, turn on flash unit and take shot in the same
manner shown in “BASIC OPERATION,” steps 10 to 14.

31

The maximum number of flashes for continuous
shooting are listed below.

Maximum

Batteries

AA-type alkaline-manganese
batteries inside SB-22

AA-type alkaline-manganese
batteries inside SB-22 plus C-type
alkaline-manganese batteries inside
optional DC Unit SD-7**

* Don't begin the continuous sequence until the ready-light

has been lit for approx. 30 seconds (with fresh batteries
at20°C[68°F]).

** For details about the SD-7, see page 52,

*** More flashes possible, but never fire the flash more than

40 times. Before firing the flash again, let it rest for at
least 10 minutes.

Note: In M or TTL automatic modes, or A1/A2 modes (non-

TTL automatic modes), do not fire the flash more than 10
frames without allowing the flash to rest at least 10 minutes.
Even lor fewer flashes, be sure to allow the SB-22 a few
minutes to rest. Using the flash continuously without cooling
causes malfunction.

number of

liashes*

40***' 4.2fps

Frames

per

second

4 6fps

to 6fps

32

Guide Number

In M or MD mode, without referring to the aperture se­lection/shooting distance range panel, you can de
termine the f/stop by using the following equation:

,, guide number
f/stop =

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

See the table for guide numbers at various film
speeds.

Guide number at various film speeds

Normal

selector

o

Mode

M (manual)

1600 100(328) 32(105) 70(230) 22 (72)

800 70(230) 22 (72)50(164) 16(52)

50(164)

400
200 36(118)

too 25 (82) 8(26) 18(59) 5.6(18)

50 18(59) 5,6(18)12.5(41) 4(13)

12.5(41)

25

16(52) 35(115)

11 (36) 25 (82) 8(26)

With wide-flash

adapter

MD

M (manual)

4(13) 9(30) 2.8 (9)

Unit; m (ft)

MD

11 (36)

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, FE2and FG:

Use the SB-22’s STBY position to turn on the SB-22.
In STBY position, when the camera’s meter turns off, in
one or two minutes the SB-22 turns off automatically.
To turn the SB-22 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-22 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-22 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-22,

ON Position

With cameras other than the Nikon F-501fN2020,

F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000, FA, FE2 and FG:

This position is normally used to turn on the SB-22,

With the Nikon FA, FE2, and FG:

To turn on the SB-22 when using mechanical shutter
settings (M250, M90 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

F3-series

When the flash unit is turned on, the SB-22's ready-light

lights up to indicate the flash is ready to fire.

To activate the vie\«tinder 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

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

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-22'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-22 is set at TTL with cameras other than
Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000,
FA, FE2 or FG.

Reset SB-22’s flash mode seiector to A1, A2 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, M90 or B setting, reset

SB-22’s flash mode selector to At, A2 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 thé FA, ready-light also blinks when the
film speed setting on the camera 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-22 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-22 in TTL, A1 or A2 mode, if both view
finder ready-light and SB-22 ready-light blink after
taking pictures (to warn that lighting might have been
insufficient for correct exposure), confirm subject is
within the flash shooting distance range and,- if neces
sary, use a wide 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 cor

rect exposure.
With weak batteries, ready-lights blink to indicate insuf
ficient flash power, even if the subject is within the
shooting distance range; replace batteries with a fresh

set.

35

USING WIDE-FLASH ADAPTER

The angle of illumination of the
SB-22 covers the picture angle of
a 35 mm lens. When the wide-flash
adapter stored in the flash head is
set, it increases the angle of cover
age, allowing the SB-22 to be used

with a 28 mm lens. When the wide-

flash adapter is used, the guide
number is reduced to 18 (ISO 100
and meters) or 9 (ISO 25 and
meters), and the shooting distance
range for automatic operation
changes. With the sliding move
ment of the wide-flash adapter, the

distance scale changes accord

ingly.

36

Tilt the flash head to the 90° po
sition. Slide out the wide-flash
adapter to cover the flash head.
Turn the flash head to its original
position.

Tilt the flash head to the 90° po
sition. Then, while pushing the
wide-flash adapter lock button,
slide the wide-flash adapter into
the pocket. Turn the flash head to
its original position.

SYNCHRO-SUNLIGHT FILL-IN FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY-

For backlit subjects, to till in shadows and balance
lighting, use the SB-22 even in daytime.

in the foiiowing, use a slower shutter speed to
avoid a dark background.

Without flash:

The backlit subject
comes out too dark.

With flash:

Both the subject
and the background
come out properly
exposed.

By setting the F-401 /
N4004 to program,
aperture-priority or

shutter-priority auto
exposure mode, with
the SB-22 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
instruction manual.
(In manual exposure
mode, ordinary TTL fill­flash is possible.)

37

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-22 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-22 in M
mode.

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

38

In A1 or A2 Mode

1. Determine correct aperture for the backlit subject

(according to method on page 23) by referring to the
SB-22’s aperture selection/distance range panel,
then set both the aperture index and the aperture on
the lens.

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 At or A2 mode.

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

4. Set the flash mode selector to At or A2, turn on the
flash unit and fake fhe shof.

With a strongly backlit subject, perform fill-in flash

photography in M mode.

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-22 at the calculated
distance.

fiash-to-subject =

* For guide number, see page 32.

4. Set the SB-22’s flash mode selector to M, turn on
the flash unit and take the shot.

guide number*

f/stop

To eliminate harsh shadows caused by ambient
daylight, decrease flash illumination by one or
two f/stops using one of the methods below,

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

2. Use a flash-to-subject distance from 1.4 to

two times longer than that determined using
the equation in step 3.

I

39

DIFFUSING THE LIGHT-

40

fi'i

*• V-l

i;

A

*' 'j

V,

Diffused light eiiminates harsh shadows and creates

attractive portraits. There are two ways to diffuse iight;

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

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

Direct flash: Harsti, unflattering
lighting.

Bounce flash: Soft, natural looking
lighting.

60° or more

Bounce Flash Photography Procedure

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

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

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

3. Set flash mode selector to TTL for TTL auto flash
operafion, At or A2 for non-TTL aufo flash oper­afion, then turn on the flash unif. The bounce indi
cator blinks.

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.

5. Bracket your exposures. You are recommended to

take additional shots with the camera’s exposure
compensation dial set in the -t- 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.

41

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 and/or more
than one diffuser.
Use the SB-22 on TTL or M mode when using a diffuser.

42

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

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 the optional

TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18 (1.5m) and/or SC-19

(3m) to connect the 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 uhits 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

44

45

SPEEDLK3HT SB-22

Manual Multiple Flash Photography

Connect the SB-22 and other flash units with the
optional Nikon Sync Cord SC-11 or SC-15 via the
SB-22’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 color 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 cameras, the optional TTL
Remote Cord SC-17 lets you perform flash shooting

with a subject closer than 0.6m,

1. Use the SC-17 to connect the SB-22 and camera.
(See SC-17 instruction manual.)

2. Position the SB-22 and tilt the flash head down so

light from the flash head covers the subject.

3. Regardless of the lens in use, use the wide-flash
adapter.

4. To determine aperture, use the following equation:

f/stops

flash-to-subject distance

A

where A corresponds to the film in use according to

the table below:

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-22 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 2,5 2.8 3.2

64

50

80 100 125 160 200 250

4 4.4

3.5

5 5.6 6.3 7.1 8

320

400

500* 640* 800* 1000*

8.9 10.1

11

13

47

TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHT CARE

>To remove smudges, wipe with a

dry soft or silicon-treated cloth.

Never use thinner, benzine or
alcohol—they might damage
plastic parts.

48

• Never disassemble or repair the
flash unit; if the SB-22 malfunc

tions, take it immediately to an
authorized Nikon dealer or ser
vice center.

where temperature is higher than
50°C, and do not store in damp
places. Use within the range of

-10°C~-I-50°C.

•Keep the SB-22 away from salt
water and out ot the rain.

• When not using the SB-22, re
move batteries to avoid damage

due to battery leakage. If leakage
occurs, take the SB-22 to your

nearest Nikon authorized service

facility.

• When the SB-22 is not used, per
form the following once a month:

1. Install batteries, turn on the

SB-22 and fire flash a few

times.

2. Wait until the ready-light comes

on.

3. Turn off the SB-22, 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.

Disposal

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 "-t- " terminal that exceeds 6mm m 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-22 to a camera without a hot shoe use
sync cord SC-11 (25 cm 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-22 oft 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 view
finder 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-22, 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.,7 ^

AS-10

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-22 on a Nikon F3-series camera with

the DE-2 or DE-3 finder, 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-22's external power terminal. Even when

powered with the SD-7, the SB-22 still requires bat

teries inside the flash unit—do not remove the

batteries.

52

SD-7

SPECIFICATIONS

All performance dala are for normal-temperature operation

[20°C(68°F)1

Electronic

construction
Guide number

Angie of coverage

Normal

With wide-tlash

adapter

Bounce capability

Flash duration

Power source

Automatic silicon-controlled

rectifier and series circuitry

25 (ISO too and meters);

18 (with wide-flash adapter)
41 (ISO 25 and feet);
30 (with wide-fiash adapter)

Horizontal

Vertical Usable lens

60° 45°
70“

53° 28mm or longer

35mm or longer

Flash head can be tilted down
to -7° or up to 90°
Approx. 1/1700sec. (at M sett
ing) or 1/8000 sec. (at MD
setting)
Four 1.5 V AA-type alkaline­manganese, manganese or
NiCd batteries; optional Battery
Pack SD-7 holding six C-type
batteries is available as an
external power source

Power switch Three positions are provided

—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-22 turns off auto
matically when flash unit is not
used for one or two minutes
and turns on when camera
exposure meter is on

Number of flashes and recycling time at manual

full light output

Battery type

AA-type
alkaline-manganese

AA-type manganese 55 times 8 sec.

AA-type NiCd 70 times 3sec.
C-type alkaline-

manganese inside
the optional SD-7**

* For autofocus operation assisted by the AF iiiuminator,

iess number of ftashes avaiiabte.

* * With four AA-type alkaline-manganese batteries instaiied

in the SB-22.

Number of flashes

(approx.)*

200 times 4 sec.

Up to

to o

times 2 sec.
Up to 300 times 3sec.
Up to 600 times 30sec.

Recycling time

(approx.)

53

Flash exposure

control
TTL mode

Five flash modes are provided;
TTL, A1, A2, M and MD
Used only with Nikon F-501/
N2020, F-401/N4004, F-301/
N2000, FA, FE2 or FG; for pro
grammed TTL auto tiash oper
ation (with F-501/N2020, F-401/
N4004 or F-301/N2000) or TTL
auto flash operation; light is
measured through the lens

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/2 to f/22 (at ISO 100)

range in TTL mode
Automatic mode

For non-TTL auto flash oper
ation; light is measured via
light sensor in front of the flash
unit

Usable apertures in automatic mode

Aperture

f/4 (at ISO 100)
f/8 (at ISO 100)

Shooting distance range

A2: 0.8-6.2m (2.6-20ft.)

A1:0.6-3.1m(2.0~10ft.)

54

M mode

Full output at M setting:
approx. 1/10 power at MD
setting

AF assist LED

Automatically fires LED beam
toward the subject when per
forming autofocus with the

Nikon F-501/N2020 (Single
Servo) or F-401/N4004 camera
in insufficient light

Dimensions

Approx. 68 (W)x105(H)x
80 (D) mm

Weight

Approx. 250g
(without batteries)

Accessory provided

Specifications and designs are subject to change without
notice.

Soft Case SS-22

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.

Nikon

NIKON CORPORATION

FUJI BLDG,, 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU,
TOKYO too, japXn

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

Printed in Japan 8&078-C10