Univex SB-900 User Manual
Autofocus Speedlight
SB-900
User’s Manual
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About this user’s manual
How to find what you are looking for
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You can search for relevant page references using the following methods.
Table of contents ...
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You can search by item, such as operation method, flash mode or function.
Simple search by objective
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You can search according to your objective without knowing the specific name or
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term of the item you are looking for.
Speedlight functions
k
You can search for a particular SB-900 function. This is handy when you know the
name of a function and want more information.
Index
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You can search using the alphabetical index.
Troubleshooting
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You can determine the cause if there is a problem with your Speedlight.
(kA-6)
(kA-4)
(kB-4)
(kF-22)
(kF-2)
A–2
Camera and lens combinations
This manual has been compiled with the assumption that the SB-900 will be used in
combination with a camera compatible with CLS (Nikon Creative Lighting System)
and a CPU lens.
t Tips on identifying CPU Nikkor lenses
CPU lenses have CPU contacts.
CPU contacts
The SB-900 cannot be used with IX-Nikkor lenses.•
Terms used in this user’s manual
Default settings: the function and mode settings at the time of purchase are
referred to as the “default settings.”
CLS (Nikon Creative Lighting System): the Nikon Creative Lighting System is
often referred to as “CLS.”
ISO sensitivity: “ISO sensitivity” is a generic term that covers both the imaging
sensitivity of digital SLR cameras and the film sensitivity of 35mm film based
cameras.
Marks used in this manual
Describes a point to which you should pay particular attention in order
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to avoid Speedlight malfunction or mistakes during shooting.
Includes information or tips to make Speedlight use easier.
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A–3
Simple search by objective
You can search for specific explanations according to your objective.
About Speedlight parts and indications
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I want to know about Key words page
The name of each part Speedlight parts C-2
The meaning of each icon (displayed) LCD panel C-10
The meaning of the warning symbols Warning indications F-3
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About settings and operation
I want to know about Key words page
The functions and usage of control buttons Control buttons C-8
The types of batteries that can be used Suitable batteries C-4
The minimum recycling time and the number of
fl ashes per recycling time per type of battery
When to replace the batteries Replacing/recharging batteries C-27
How to change settings using “Custom settings” Custom settings C-20
How to perform test fi rings Test fi ring D-59
How to tilt or rotate the fl ash head Adjusting the fl ash head D-26
How to reset various settings Two-button reset C-9
How to illuminate the LCD panel Using the SB-900 in dim light C-24
How to enhance the readability of the LCD panel
How to change the standby lead time Standby function C-23
How to monitor the remote fl ash units by sound Sound monitor C-24
How to lock the control buttons to avoid mistakes Key lock C-9
The minimum recycling time
and the number of fl ashes per
recycling time
Enhancing the LCD panel’s readability
F-20
C-25
About flash photography
I want to know about Key words page
About the fl ash modes Flash modes and functions D-1
How to take pictures in the simplest way Basic operation C-4
How to take portrait photos emphasizing the main subject
How to take formal group shots Illumination pattern: Even D-24
How to take more natural-looking shots of fl owers
and dolls
How to take pictures with soft shadows cast on a wall
How to take pictures of both the subject and
background at night
Illumination pattern: Centerweighted
Wireless multiple fl ash shooting
Bounce fl ash operation D-26
Slow-sync fl ash D-55
D-24
D-39
A–4
I want to know about Key words page
How to take pictures using multiple fl ash units
How to confi rm lighting conditions Modeling illumination D-61
How to take brighter (or darker) pictures of both the
subject and background
How to take brighter (or darker) pictures of the subject
How to take pictures without the subject’s eyes
appearing red
How to shoot a moving subject with stroboscopic
multiple-exposure effects
How to take pictures under fl uorescent light and
incandescent light and balance the lights’ color effects
How to take pictures adding specifi c color to the scene
How to perform autofocus fl ash photography in dim lighting
How to shoot a fast moving subject using wireless
multiple fl ash shooting
Wireless multiple fl ash shooting
Exposure compensation D-38
Flash output level compensation
Red-eye reduction D-56
Repeating fl ash D-17
Flash photography with
color fi lters
Flash photography with
color fi lters
AF-assist Illuminator D-58
SU-4 type wireless multiple
fl ash operation
D-39
D-37
D-33
D-33
D-50
About accessories
I want to know about Key words page
About cameras compatible with the SB-900 Compatible cameras B-2
How to use the SB-900 with cameras not compatible
with Nikon Creative Lighting System
How to use the SB-900 with Nikon COOLPIX cameras
About optional accessories that are available Optional accessories F-11
Using the SB-900 with nonCLS-compatible SLR cameras
For usage with i-TTL-compatible
COOLPIX cameras
E-2
E-3
Others
I want to know about Key words page
Tips on Speedlight care Tips on Speedlight care F-7
SB-900 specifi cations Specifi cations F-14
The latest Nikon product information Life-long learning A-16
How to update the fi rmware Firmware update F-10
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C
D
E
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A–5
Contents
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About this user‘s manual ......................................................................A-2
How to fi nd what you are looking for .................................................. A-2
Simple search by objective ....................................................................A-4
For your safety ......................................................................................A-8
Check before Use ...............................................................................A-14
About the SB-900
BB
SB-900 features .................................................................................... B-2
Main functions ......................................................................................B-4
Operation
CC
Speedlight parts ....................................................................................C-2
Basic operations ....................................................................................C-4
Control buttons ....................................................................................C-8
LCD ....................................................................................................C-10
Custom functions and settings ............................................................C-20
Batteries .............................................................................................C-27
Flash modes and functions
DD
i-TTL mode ............................................................................................D-2
Auto aperture fl ash ...............................................................................D-5
Non-TTL auto fl ash ................................................................................D-8
Distance-priority manual fl ash .............................................................D-11
Manual mode .....................................................................................D-14
Repeating fl ash ...................................................................................D-17
Determining the aperture, fl ash output level and shooting distance
in the Distance priority, Manual and Repeating fl ash mode..................D-22
Switching illumination pattern ............................................................D-24
Bounce fl ash operation .......................................................................D-26
Taking close-up photographs with bounce-down fl ash ........................D-30
Flash photography with color fi lters ....................................................D-33
Flash output level compensation and exposure compensation .............D-37
Wireless multiple fl ash shooting ..........................................................D-39
A–6
•
Flash shooting in Advanced Wireless Lighting .............................D-43
•
SU-4 type wireless multiple flash shooting ..................................D-50
Available functions to be set on the camera ........................................D-55
•
Auto FP High-Speed Sync mode
•
Flash Value Lock (FV Lock)
•
Slow-sync flash
•
Red-eye reduction/Red-eye reduction with slow-sync flash
•
Rear-curtain sync
Flash shooting support functions .........................................................D-57
•
Power zoom function
•
AF-Assist Illuminator
•
Setting the ISO sensitivity
•
Test firing function
•
Modeling illuminator function
•
FX-/DX selection
For use with cameras other than CLS compatible
EE
SLR cameras
Using the SB-900 with non-CLS-compatible SLR cameras ...................... E-2
For usage with i-TTL-compatible COOLPIX cameras ............................... E-3
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B
C
D
E
Tips on Speedlight care and reference information
FF
Troubleshooting .................................................................................... F-2
Notes on continuous fl ash shooting ...................................................... F-5
Thermal Cut-out ................................................................................... F-6
Tips on Speedlight care ......................................................................... F-7
Notes on batteries ................................................................................. F-8
About the LCD panel ............................................................................ F-9
Updating fi rmware .............................................................................. F-10
Optional accessories ............................................................................ F-11
Specifi cations ...................................................................................... F-14
Index .................................................................................................. F-22
F
A–7
For your safety
Before using your product, please read the following safety precautions carefully
and thoroughly to ensure correct and safe use and to help prevent damage to your
A
Nikon product or injury to yourself or others.
For quick reference by those who use the product, please keep these safety
instructions near the product.
In this manual, safety instructions are indicated with these symbols:
WARNING
Disregarding instructions marked with this symbol could result in personal injury, or
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death and property damage.
CAUTION
Disregarding instructions marked with this symbol could result in property damage.
WARNINGS for Speedlights
1.
If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and get in your eyes,
immediately wash your eyes with running water and consult with a
doctor. Your eyes could be seriously damaged if they are not treated quickly.
2.
If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and come in contact with
your skin or clothes, wash immediately with running water. Prolonged
contact could injure your skin.
3.
Never attempt to disassemble or repair the flash unit by yourself, as this
could result in you receiving an electric shock and could also cause the unit to
malfunction; such malfunction could lead to personal injury.
4.
If the flash unit is dropped and damaged, do not touch any exposed
interior metal parts. Such parts, especially the Speedlight’s capacitor and
associated parts, could be in a high-charge state and if touched could cause an
electric shock. Disconnect the power or remove the batteries and be sure that
you do not touch any of the product’s electrical components, and then bring
the flash unit to your local Nikon dealer or authorized service center for repair.
5.
If you detect heat, smoke or notice a burning smell, immediately stop
operation and remove the batteries to prevent the unit from catching on
fire or melting. Allow the flash unit to cool down so that you can safely touch
it and remove the batteries. Then bring the unit to your local Nikon dealer or
authorized service center for repair.
6.
The flash unit should never be submerged in liquid or exposed to rain,
saltwater or moisture unless it is properly protected from the liquids
and moisture. Underwater use requires a certified underwater housing.
If water or moisture gets inside the unit, this could cause the unit to catch
on fire or cause an electric shock. In such instances you should immediately
remove the batteries from the Speedlight and then bring the unit to your local
Nikon dealer or authorized service center for repair.
Note: electronic devices that are penetrated by water or moisture are often not
economically repairable.
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7.
Do not use the unit in the presence of flammable or explosive gas.
If the flash unit is operated in areas where there is a flammable gas, including
propane, gasoline and dust, it could cause an explosion or fire.
8.
Do not fire the flash unit directly at the driver of a moving car, as this
could temporarily impair the driver’s vision and cause an accident.
9.
Do not fire the flash unit directly into the eyes of someone that is at
close range, as it could damage the retinas of their eyes. Never fire the flash
unit closer than 1 meter from infants.
10.
Do not fire the unit while the flash head is touching a person or object.
Such use can result in the person being burned, and/or their clothes igniting
from the heat of the flash’s firing.
11.
Keep small accessories out of the reach of children to avoid the possibility
of the accessory being swallowed. If an accessory is accidentally swallowed,
immediately consult with a doctor.
12.
Use only the batteries specified in this user’s manual. Batteries other
than those specified could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire or
otherwise not perform satisfactorily.
13.
Do not mix battery types, brands or old and new batteries, as the
batteries could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire. When using
more than one battery in a product, always use identical batteries that were
purchased at the same time.
14.
Non-rechargeable batteries such as manganese, alkaline-manganese
and lithium batteries should never be charged in a battery charger
because they could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire.
15.
When using standard size (AA, AAA, C, D) or other common
rechargeable batteries such as NiCd and Ni-MH battery types, or when
recharging them, be sure to use only the battery charger specified
by the battery maker and read the instructions thoroughly. Do not
recharge these batteries with their terminals reversed in the charger
or before the batteries have cooled off sufficiently because they could
leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire. The same caution also applies
to using the rechargeable batteries that may be supplied by the photo
product’s manufacturer.
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For your safety
CAUTIONS for Speedlights
1.
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Do not touch the flash unit with wet hands, as this could cause an
electric shock.
2.
Keep the flash unit away from children to prevent them from putting
the unit in or near their mouth, or otherwise touching a dangerous part
of the product; as such contact could cause an electric shock.
3.
Do not apply strong physical shocks to the unit, as this could cause a
malfunction that could cause the unit to explode or catch on fire.
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4.
Never use active agents that contain flammable substances such as
paint thinner, benzene or paint remover to clean the unit, and never
store the unit in locations containing chemicals such as camphor and
naphthalene, as this could damage the plastic case, cause a fire or cause an
electric shock.
5.
Remove any batteries from the unit before storing the unit for a long
time to prevent the unit from catching on fire or leaking corrosive liquids.
WARNINGS for Batteries
1.
Never heat or throw batteries into a fire, as this could cause the batteries
to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
2.
Do not short-circuit or disassemble the batteries because this could cause
the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
3.
Do not mix battery types, brands or old and new batteries, as this could
cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
4.
Do not install batteries in the reverse direction as this could cause
the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode. Even if
only one battery is installed in reverse it will cause the Speedlight
to malfunction.
5.
Be sure to use the battery charger specified by the battery maker to
avoid the possibility of batteries leaking corrosive liquids, generating heat or
exploding.
6.
Do not carry or store batteries along with metallic materials such as
necklaces and hair pins because such materials could cause the batteries to
short-circuit, leading to battery leakage, heat generation or an explosion.
In addition, specially when carrying a quantity of batteries, place them
carefully in a storage case that prevents the battery terminals from
touching another battery’s terminals because if they touch in reverse order
it could also cause the batteries to short-circuit, leading to battery leakage, heat
generation or an explosion.
7.
If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and get in your eyes,
immediately wash your eyes with running water and consult with a
doctor. Your eyes could be seriously damaged if they are not treated quickly.
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8.
If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and come in contact with
your skin or clothes, wash immediately with running water. Prolonged
contact could injure your skin.
9.
Always follow the warnings and instructions printed on the batteries to
avoid activities that could cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate
heat or catch on fire.
10.
Be sure to use only batteries specified in this user’s manual, to avoid the
possibility of batteries leaking corrosive liquids, generating heat or exploding.
11.
Never open the casing surrounding batteries or use batteries whose
casing has been breached as such batteries could leak corrosive liquids,
generate heat or explode.
12.
Keep batteries out of the reach of children to help avoid the possibility
of them being swallowed. If a battery is accidentally swallowed, immediately
consult with a doctor.
13.
Batteries should not be submerged in water, exposed to rain,
moisture or saltwater unless they are properly protected from the wet
environment. If water or moisture gets inside the batteries, this could cause
them to leak corrosive liquids or generate heat.
14.
Do not use any battery that appears abnormal in any way, including
a change in color or shape. Such batteries could leak corrosive liquids or
generate heat.
15.
Stop recharging rechargeable batteries if you notice that recharging is
not completed within the specified time to help prevent the possibility of
the battery leaking corrosive liquids or generating heat.
16.
When recycling or disposing of batteries, be sure to insulate their
terminals with tape. If the battery’s positive and negative terminals
shortcircuit after coming into contact with metallic objects, it could cause fire,
heat generation or an explosion. Dispose of used batteries in accordance with
local government regulations
17.
Non-rechargeable batteries should never be charged in a battery
charger because they could leak corrosive liquids or generate heat.
18.
Remove dead batteries from your equipment immediately, as they could
leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
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For your safety
CAUTION for Batteries
Do not throw or apply strong physical shocks to the batteries as this could
A
cause batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
Symbol for separate collection applicable in European countries
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This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately.
The following apply only to users in European countries.
This product is designated for separate collection at an
•
appropriate collection point. Do not dispose of as household
waste
For more information, contact the retailer or the local authorities
•
in charge of waste management.
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Check before Use
Foreword
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Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Speedlight SB-900. To get the most out of your
Speedlight, please read this user’s manual and the separate booklet “A collection of
example photos” thoroughly before use.
This user’s manual explains SB-900 functions, operation methods, specifications,
etc., and the separate “A collection of example photos” provides an overview of
the SB-900’s flash-shooting capabilities with example photos.
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In addition, keep your camera user’s manual handy for quick reference.
Included items
The SB-900 comes with the following accessories. Check that all items are included
before use.
❑ Speedlight Stand AS-21
❑ Nikon Diffusion Dome SW-13H
❑ Color Filter Set SJ-900
❑ Color Filter Holder SZ-2
❑ Soft Case SS-900
❑ User’s manual (this manual)
❑ A collection of example photos
❑ Warranty card
Nikon Diffusion Dome
SW-13H
Color Filter Holder
SZ-2
A–14
Soft Case
SS-900
SB-900
Color Filter Set
SJ-900
Speedlight Stand
AS-21
Tips on using the Speedlight
Take trial shots
Make trial shots before photographing important occasions like weddings
or graduations.
Have Nikon spot-check your Speedlight regularly
Nikon recommends that you have your Speedlight serviced by an authorized dealer
or service center at least once every two years.
Use your Speedlight with Nikon equipment
The Nikon Speedlight SB-900’s performance has been optimized for use with Nikon
brand cameras/accessories including lenses.
Camera/accessories made by other manufacturers may not meet Nikon’s criteria for
specifications, and nonconforming cameras/accessories could damage the SB-900’s
components. Nikon cannot guarantee the SB-900’s performance when used with
non-Nikon products.
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Check before Use
Life-long learning
A
As part of Nikon’s “Life-long learning” commitment to ongoing product support and
education, continually-updated information is available on-line at the following sites:
For users in the U.S.A.:
•
http://www.nikonusa.com/
For users in Europe:
•
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http://www.europe-nikon.com/support
For users in Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa:
•
http://www.nikon-asia.com/
Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information, tips,
answers to frequently-asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital
imaging and photography. Additional information may be available from the Nikon
representative in your area. See the URL below for contact information:
http://nikonimaging.com/
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This section explains the features and key functions of
the SB-900.
About the SB-900
SB-900 features ......................................................B-2
•
Main functions ......................................................B-4
•
B
About the SB-900
B–1
B–1
B–1
SB-900 features
Features of the SB-900
The SB-900 is a high-performance CLS-compatible Speedlight with a large guide
number of 34/48 (ISO 100/200, m) (111.5/157.5, ft.) (at the 35 mm zoom position
in Nikon FX format with standard illumination pattern, 20°C/68°F.)
•
Combined with a CLS-compatible camera, the SB-900 can easily perform various
B
types of flash operations, such as i-TTL auto flash and wireless multiple flash
(kD-39).
•
Three types of illumination patterns (standard, center-weighted and even) are
available to match different shooting preferences.
•
FX/DX selection enables the setting of the light distribution angle in accordance
with the camera’s image area between FX- and DX-formats, and provides
effective and high-quality lighting.
•
Power zoom function automatically adjusts the zoom position to match the lens
About the SB-900
focal length from 17 mm to 200 mm (in FX format)/12 mm to 200 mm (in DX
format). When the built-in wide-flash adapter is used or the Nikon Diffusion
Dome is attached, the zoom position is automatically set to match a wideangle
lens with much shorter focal length.
•
Bounce flash (kD-26) or close-up flash photography can be easily performed
(kD-30).
•
Custom functions are provided to allow for various settings (kC-20).
Compatible cameras
The SB-900 has been optimized for use with CLS-compatible SLR cameras.
For usage with non-CLS-compatible SLR cameras and with i-TTL-compatible
•
COOLPIX cameras, see “Using the SB-900 with non-CLS-compatible SLR
cameras.” (kE-1)
CLS-compatible SLR cameras
D3, D700, D2 Series, D300, D200, D80, D70 Series, D60, D50,
D40 Series, F6, etc.
i-TTL-compatible COOLPIX cameras
COOLPIX 8800, COOLPIX 8400, COOLPIX P5000,
COOLPIX P5100, etc.
B–2
What is the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)?
The SB-900 features the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS). This system offers
additional flash shooting possibilities with digital cameras by taking advantage of
your camera’s digital communication capabilities. CLS is available when the SB-900
is used with compatible Nikon cameras.
The SB-900 offers these major features:
i-TTL mode
■
This is a Nikon Creative Lighting System TTL auto flash mode. Monitor pre-flashes
are fired at all times. The subject is correctly exposed by the light from the flash
lighting and the exposure is less affected by ambient light (kD-2).
■
Advanced Wireless Lighting
With Advanced Wireless Lighting, wireless multiple flash operation in the TTL (i-TTL)
mode can be accomplished with CLS-compatible digital SLRs. In this mode, you
can divide the remote flash units into three groups and control the flash output
independently for each group, expanding your range of creative multiple-flash
shooting techniques (kD-43).
■
FV Lock (Flash Value Lock)
Flash Value, or “FV,” is the amount of flash exposure for the subject. Using FV Lock
with compatible cameras, you can lock in the appropriate flash exposure for the
main subject. This flash exposure is locked in, even if you change the aperture or
composition, or zoom the lens in and out. (kD-55).
Flash Color Information Communication
■
When the SB-900 is used with compatible digital SLRs, color temperature
information is automatically transmitted to the camera. In this way, the camera’s
white balance is automatically adjusted to give you the correct color temperature
when taking photographs with the SB-900.
Auto FP High-Speed Sync
■
High-Speed flash synchronization at a compatible camera’s highest shutter speed is
possible. This is useful when you want to use a wider aperture to achieve shallow
depth of field to blur the background (kD-55).
AF-Assist illuminator
■
In autofocus operation, the SB-900 emits AF-Assist illumination, which matches the
wider AF area of CLS-compatible cameras. With cameras supporting this function,
autofocus photography in dim lighting is possible even when the camera’s focus
point (focus area) is changed (kD-58).
B–3
B
About the SB-900
Main functions
Flash modes and functions on the SB-900
i-TTL mode
The camera controls the SB SB-900’s flash output level by measuring the light
reflected from the subject when the SB-900 fires a series of monitor pre-flashes.
B
Auto-Aperture flash mode
The SB-900 controls the flash output level by measuring the flash illumination reflected
back from the subject using the sensor for Non-TTL auto flash and combining this with
information from the camera, such as the ISO sensitivity and the aperture setting.
Non-TTL Auto flash mode
The SB-900 controls the flash output level by measuring the flash illumination
reflected back from the subject using the sensor for Non-TTL auto flash.
Distance Priority manual flash mode
About the SB-900
If you preset the aperture and the distance to the subject, the SB SB-900 will
automatically take control of correct light output.
Manual flash mode
By setting the aperture and the flash output level, you can manually set the
exposure and the distance to the subject.
Repeating flash mode
The SB-900 fires repeatedly to create stroboscopic multiple-exposure effects. This
operation is useful when shooting fast-moving subjects.
Switching illumination pattern
You can select one of three types of illumination pattern (standard, center-weighted
and even) in accordance with your objective.
Bounce flash
By tilting or rotating the flash head, you can bounce the light off a ceiling or wall to
make use of reflected light.
Close-up flash photography
Close up flash photography can be achieved with use of the built-in wide-flash
adapter and the flash head tilted down.
Using color filters
You can compensate for the color of a light source or create interesting effects by
changing the light from the filters to a different color.
Flash output level compensation/Exposure compensation
Flash output level compensation is performed by modifying the flash output level for
the flash illuminated subject only. Exposure compensation is performed by intentionally
modifying the correct exposure to modify both the subject and background exposure.
(kD-2)
(kD-5)
(kD-8)
(kD-11)
(kD-14)
(kD-17)
(kD-24)
(kD-26)
(kD-30)
(kD-33)
(kD-37)
B–4
Wireless multiple flash
Advanced Wireless Lighting (kD-43)
•
In this mode, you can divide the remote flash units into three groups and set the
flash mode and flash output level compensation values separately for each group
as well as the master flash unit.
SU-4-type wireless multiple flash (kD-50)
•
You can perform SU-4 type wireless multiple flash in two ways: in which the
wireless remote flash units start and stop firing in sync with the master flash unit,
and in which the remote flash units only start firing in sync with the master.
(kD-39)
Functions that are set on the camera
B
Auto FP High-Speed Sync
The SB-900 automatically fires at faster shutter speeds than the camera’s sync
shutter speed.
FV Lock (Flash Value Lock)
Since it is possible to lock in the flash exposure level for the subject, you can alter
picture composition while keeping the brightness of the subject constant.
Slow-Sync
The flash is controlled at a slow shutter speed to obtain the correct exposure for
both the main subject and background in low-light situations.
(kD-55)
Red-Eye Reduction flash mode/Red-Eye Reduction Slow-Sync
Red-eye effect, which causes the subject’s eyes to appear red in color photographs,
is reduced.
Rear-Curtain flash sync
Rear-curtain flash sync creates a picture in which the blur of a moving subject
appears behind the subject and not in front. In this mode, the flash fires just before
the rear curtain starts to close.
(kD-56)
(kD-55)
(kD-55)
(kD-56)
Support functions
Power zoom function
Automatically adjusts the zoom position to match the lens focal length.
Setting the ISO sensitivity
The ISO sensitivity is automatically set based on information from the camera.
AF-Assist illuminator
This enables you to perform autofocus flash photography when there is not enough
light for normal autofocus operation.
(kD-57)
(kD-60)
(kD-58)
B–5
About the SB-900
Main functions
Test firing
You can verify whether the subject will receive the correct exposure by test firing
the SB-900.
Modeling illuminator
Before actually shooting you can check the illumination and the shadows cast on
the subject.
B
FX/DX selection
The SB-900 automatically selects the suitable light distribution angle, in accordance
with the camera’s image area (between FX-format (36 x 24) and DX-format (24 x 16)).
(kD-60)
(kD-61)
(kD-62)
SB-900 status and settings functions
Custom setting
Various settings can be made while checking the status on the LCD panel.
About the SB-900
Two-button reset
This function resets various settings to their default values.
Key lock
The control buttons can be locked to prevent them from being pressed accidentally.
LCD panel illumination setting
This function sets the LCD panel illumination to on or off.
LCD panel contrast setting
This function adjusts the contrast of the LCD panel.
Standby function
This function automatically puts the SB-900 in standby mode to conserve battery
power.
Continuous flash
The SB-900 fires continuously in sync with continuous shooting.
Thermal Cut-out
This function protects the SB-900 from high operating temperatures. If the
temperature of the unit rises to a certain level, the SB-900 will switch to protective
shutdown mode.
Self firmware update
Speedlight firmware can be updated through the camera.
(kC-20)
(kC-9)
(kC-9)
(kC-24)
(kC-25)
(kC-28)
(kF-5)
(kF-6)
(kF-10)
B–6
C
This section explains the Speedlight parts, meaning of
each display, and also covers basic procedures for flash
photography.
Operation
Speedlight parts .................................................... C-2
•
Basic operation ..................................................... C-4
•
Control buttons ................................................... C-8
•
LCD .................................................................... C-10
•
Custom functions and settings ........................... C-20
•
Batteries ............................................................. C-27
•
C
Operation
C–1
C–1
Speedlight parts
5
6
1
C
Operation
2
3
4
1 Flash head
2 Flash head tilting/rotating lock
release button (kC-6)
3 Battery chamber lid
4 Light sensor window for wireless
remote fl ash (kD-40)
5 Built-in bounce card (kD-28)
6 Built-in wide-fl ash adapter
(kD-31)
7 Filter detector (kD-35)
8 AF-assist illuminator (kD-58)
9 Ready-light (at remote setting)
(kD-42)
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
10 External power source terminal
(supplied with cover) (kF-12)
11 Light sensor for Non-TTL auto
fl ash (kD-5, D-8)
12 External AF-assist illuminator
contacts
13 Mount pin
14 Hot-shoe contacts
15 Mounting foot
C–2
16
17
18
19
16 Flash head tilting angle scale
(kD-26)
17 Flash head rotating angle scale
(kD-26)
18 Sync terminal cover
19 Sync terminal
Control buttons (kC-8)
23
24
20 LCD panel (kC-10)
21 Ready-light (kC-7, D-42)
22 Mounting foot lock lever
(kC-5)
23 [MODE] button
25
24 [ZOOM] button
26
25 Function button 1
27
26 Function button 2
28
27 Function button 3
29
28 Test fi ring button
30
29 Power ON-OFF switch/
31
wireless setting switch
30 Selector dial
31 [OK] button
C
20
21
Operation
22
C–3
Basic operation
This section covers basic procedures in i-TTL mode in combination with a CLScompatible camera. i-TTL mode enables you to easily take flash photography with
well balanced lighting.
Inserting the batteries
STEP
1
Slide the battery chamber lid
open.
C
Insert the batteries following the
Operation
[+] and [-] marks as shown.
Close the battery chamber lid.
Suitable batteries
Insert four AA-type penlight batteries of any of the following types:
Alkaline-manganese (1.5 V) Lithium (1.5 V)
Oxyride™ (1.5 V)
When replacing batteries, use fresh batteries of the same brand.
•
For more on batteries, refer to “Batteries” and “Notes on batteries.”
•
(kC-27, kF-8)
C–4
Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) (1.2 V)
Attaching the SB-900 to the camera
STEP
2
Make sure the SB-900 and
the camera body are turned
off.
Rotate the mounting foot
lock lever to the left.
Slide the SB-900’s mounting foot
into the camera’s accessory shoe.
Turn the lock lever to “L.”
v To lock the Speedlight in
place, turn the lock lever
clockwise until it stops at the
mounting foot lock index.
Detaching the SB-900 from the camera
Turn the lock lever 90° to the left.
Slide the SB-900’s mounting foot
from the camera’s accessory shoe.
C
Operation
v If the SB-900’s mounting foot
cannot be removed from the
camera’s accessory shoe:
The mount pin remains inserted in
•
the camera’s accessory shoe. Turn
the lock lever 90° to the left again,
and slide the SB-900 slowly out.
Never forcibly remove the SB-900.
•
C–5
Basic operation
Adjusting the flash head
STEP
3
C
LCD indicator for flash head status
Operation
Turning the SB-900 and camera on
STEP
4
Hold down the flash head
tilting/rotating lock release
button to adjust the flash
head to the horizontal/
front position.
The flash head is locked at horizontal/
•
front and 90°.
•
Flash head is set at angle other than
horizontal/front. (Flash head is tilted up or
rotated to the right or left.)
•
Flash head is set at -7°. (Flash head is
tilted down.)
•
Flash head is set at horizontal/front.
Turn the SB-900 and the
camera body on.
To turn the SB-900 on, turn the
•
[Power ON-OFF] switch to [ON].
When using i-TTL mode
C–6
ISO sensitivity is set automatically.•
Angle of coverage is automatically set
•
according to lens in use.
Selecting the flash mode
STEP
5
Press the [MODE] button.
Rotate the selector dial to
indicate
on the LCD.
Press the [OK] button.
Changing the flash mode
Rotate the selector dial to display available
flash mode icons on the LCD.
Flash mode icons (kC-10)
Only flash modes that are available are displayed onon the LCD.
•
The flash mode can also be selected by pressing the [MODE] button.
•
Make sure that the ready-
light on the SB-900 or in the
camera’s viewfinder is on
before shooting.
When no ready-light indicator appears,
•
lightly press the shutter release button
to activate the ready-light.
C
Operation
C–7
Control buttons
Names and functions of control buttons
C
1
3
4
5
6
7
8
2
Operation
1 [MODE] button:
Press to select fl ash mode. (kC-10)
2 [ZOOM] button:
Press to adjust zoom position.
(kD-57)
3 Function button 1:
4 Function button 2:
5 Function button 3:
Press to select which item to change.
•
Functions differ according to
•
selected mode and status of the
SB-900. (kC-17)
6 Test fi ring button:
Controls test firing (kD-60) and
•
modeling illuminator. (kD-61)
The button setting for test
•
firing/modeling illumination can
be changed with the custom
function. (kC-22)
C–8
7 Power ON-OFF/wireless
setting switch:
Rotate to turn power on and off.
•
Controls the master and/or remote
•
flashes when using wireless
multiple flash shooting. (kD-39)
To control master and/or remote
•
flashes, rotate the switch while
holding down the button in the
center of the switch.
8 Selector dial:
Rotate to change selected item. The
selected item is highlighted on the
LCD. (kC-9)
9 [OK] button:
Lightly pressing the [OK] button
•
confirms selected setting.
Hold the [OK] button down for
•
one second to display custom
function. (kC-21)
9
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