Nikon SB-700 Flash: A Comprehensive Guide
Nikon’s introduction of the SB-700 as a successor to the SB-600 brings a compact‚ feature-rich flash‚ offering intuitive controls and versatile performance for photographers;
The Nikon SB-700 Speedlight represents a significant advancement in portable flash technology‚ designed as a versatile tool for both amateur and professional photographers; Announced in September 2010‚ it quickly became a popular choice‚ replacing the SB-600 model with enhanced features and a user-friendly interface․ This flashgun boasts a guide number of 28‚ making it suitable for a wide range of shooting scenarios․
Its compact design belies a powerful performance‚ offering a zoom head covering 24-120mm․ The SB-700 excels in Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS)‚ enabling wireless TTL operation and advanced control over multiple flash units․ Build quality is notably impressive‚ ensuring durability for demanding use․ It’s an easy-to-use yet sophisticated flash‚ ideal for photographers seeking reliable and creative lighting solutions․
What’s in the Box?
Upon unboxing the Nikon SB-700‚ users will find a comprehensive set of accessories alongside the flash unit itself․ Included is a robust stand shoe cover‚ designed to protect the hot shoe foot and provide a secure connection to the camera․ A bounce adapter is also provided‚ enabling softer‚ more diffused lighting by redirecting the flash head․ Furthermore‚ the package contains a color filter set‚ allowing for creative adjustments to the flash’s color temperature․
A soft case is supplied for convenient storage and transportation‚ safeguarding the flash from dust and damage․ The box also includes a detailed user manual‚ essential for understanding the SB-700’s features and functions․ Finally‚ a stand adapter is present‚ facilitating off-camera flash positioning for greater creative control․
Key Features and Specifications
The Nikon SB-700 boasts a guide number of 28 (at ISO 100‚ 35mm)‚ offering substantial illumination for various shooting scenarios․ Its zoom head covers a range of 24-120mm‚ adapting to different lens focal lengths․ The flash features a tilt and swivel mechanism‚ enabling bounce flash for softer lighting․ It offers a wide power range‚ adjustable from 1/1 to 1/128 power in 1/3-stop increments․
Connectivity includes a hot shoe and a sync terminal for off-camera use․ The SB-700 supports Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS)‚ allowing wireless TTL operation․ Build quality is impressive‚ and the intuitive control interface simplifies operation․ It operates on four AA batteries‚ providing ample power for extended shooting sessions․
Understanding the SB-700’s Controls
The SB-700 features an intuitive interface‚ including a power button‚ mode selector dial‚ zoom head adjustment‚ and bounce/tilt mechanism for precise control․
Power Button and Indicator
The SB-700’s power button is prominently located for easy access‚ enabling quick activation and deactivation of the flash unit․ Pressing this button initiates the flash’s readiness sequence‚ indicated by the clear and informative indicator light․ This indicator doesn’t just signal power; it communicates the flash’s operational status․ A steady green light confirms the flash is fully charged and ready to fire‚ ensuring you won’t miss crucial shooting opportunities․
Conversely‚ an orange or red light signifies the flash is recycling‚ indicating it’s charging up for the next burst․ Understanding these visual cues is vital for efficient operation․ The indicator also alerts you to low battery levels‚ preventing unexpected interruptions during a shoot․ Familiarizing yourself with the power button and indicator’s signals is fundamental to mastering the SB-700’s functionality․
Mode Selector Dial
The SB-700’s mode selector dial is central to controlling its operation‚ offering a range of shooting options to suit diverse photographic scenarios․ This dial allows photographers to effortlessly switch between TTL‚ Manual‚ Repeat (Stroboscopic)‚ and Distance Priority modes․ TTL mode automates flash exposure‚ while Manual mode grants full control over power output․
Repeat mode delivers a series of rapid flashes‚ ideal for creating dramatic effects or illuminating moving subjects․ Distance Priority mode prioritizes consistent flash output based on distance․ The dial’s clear labeling and smooth rotation ensure quick and accurate mode selection․ Understanding each mode’s function unlocks the SB-700’s full potential‚ enabling creative and technically sound flash photography․
Zoom Head Adjustment
The SB-700 features a versatile zoom head‚ covering a focal length range of 24-120mm‚ adaptable to various lenses and shooting situations․ This adjustment is crucial for directing the flash coverage to effectively illuminate the subject‚ minimizing light spill and maximizing efficiency․ The zoom head is manually adjusted‚ allowing precise control over the beam angle․
Photographers can match the flash coverage to the lens’s field of view‚ ensuring even illumination across the frame․ Wider settings are suitable for group shots or expansive scenes‚ while narrower settings concentrate light on distant subjects․ Proper zoom head adjustment is fundamental for achieving optimal flash exposure and creative lighting effects․
Bounce and Tilt Mechanism
The SB-700’s robust bounce and tilt mechanism significantly expands creative lighting possibilities․ The flash head rotates nearly 180 degrees horizontally and tilts from -7 to 90 degrees vertically‚ enabling photographers to bounce flash off ceilings‚ walls‚ or reflectors․ Bouncing softens the light‚ reducing harsh shadows and creating a more natural appearance․
This flexibility allows for precise light direction‚ even in challenging environments․ The tilt mechanism is particularly useful for controlling the angle of the bounced light‚ optimizing its effect on the subject․ Mastering the bounce and tilt features unlocks a wider range of artistic expression and professional-looking results․
Navigating the SB-700’s Menu System
The SB-700 features an intuitive menu system‚ allowing photographers to customize settings like flash compensation‚ modeling flash‚ and custom functions efficiently․
Menu Overview
The Nikon SB-700’s menu system is accessed via the rear control dial and LCD screen‚ offering a straightforward navigation experience․ The menu is logically organized into sections‚ allowing users to quickly locate and adjust desired settings․ Key areas include flash control‚ which manages flash mode‚ compensation‚ and sync settings․ Another section focuses on custom functions‚ enabling personalized adjustments to the flash’s behavior․
Further options cover communication settings for wireless operation‚ allowing configuration of channels and groups for Creative Lighting System (CLS) use․ Users can also adjust display settings‚ such as brightness and language‚ and access setup options for resetting the flash to factory defaults․ The menu’s clear layout and responsive controls contribute to a user-friendly experience‚ even for those new to advanced flash photography․
Custom Function Settings
The SB-700 boasts ten customizable function settings‚ denoted as C1 through C10‚ allowing photographers to tailor the flash to their specific shooting preferences․ These settings enable quick access to frequently used adjustments‚ streamlining workflow․ Examples include direct access to modeling flash settings‚ bounce flash adjustments‚ or specific flash compensation values․
Users can assign any combination of flash parameters to each custom function‚ creating personalized presets for various shooting scenarios․ This feature is particularly useful for photographers who frequently switch between different lighting setups․ By pre-configuring these settings‚ adjustments can be made instantly‚ saving valuable time and ensuring consistent results․ The custom functions enhance the SB-700’s adaptability and user control․
Flash Compensation Adjustment
Flash compensation on the SB-700 allows photographers to fine-tune the flash output‚ overriding the camera’s TTL metering system․ Adjustment ranges from -3 to +3 EV in 1/3 or 1/2 step increments‚ providing precise control over exposure․ This is crucial when the camera’s initial flash exposure isn’t optimal‚ such as in challenging lighting conditions or with specific subject matter․
Users can adjust compensation directly via the flash’s control panel or through the camera’s menu when used in Commander mode․ Positive values increase flash power‚ brightening the image‚ while negative values decrease power‚ darkening it․ Mastering flash compensation is key to achieving properly exposed and creatively lit photographs with the SB-700․
Modeling Flash Settings
The SB-700’s modeling flash feature emits a series of quick‚ low-power flashes before the main exposure‚ allowing photographers to visually preview the effect of the flash on the subject and background․ This is particularly useful for bounce flash‚ helping to determine the optimal angle and power for desired lighting․ The modeling flash duration can be adjusted‚ offering control over how long the preview lasts․
Accessing this setting through the flash menu allows customization for different shooting scenarios․ It’s a valuable tool for achieving consistent and predictable results‚ especially in complex lighting setups․ Utilizing the modeling flash ensures accurate exposure and creative control‚ maximizing the SB-700’s potential․
Using the SB-700 in Different Modes
The SB-700 supports TTL‚ Manual‚ Repeat (stroboscopic)‚ and Distance Priority modes‚ providing flexibility for various photographic needs and creative control options․
TTL Mode (Through-The-Lens)
TTL mode on the Nikon SB-700 offers automated flash exposure‚ allowing the camera to communicate with the flash to determine the optimal power setting for each shot․ This simplifies flash photography‚ especially in rapidly changing lighting conditions․ The camera evaluates the scene through the lens‚ measuring light and instructing the flash accordingly‚ ensuring balanced and properly exposed images․
Within TTL‚ Nikon provides variations like TTL-BL (Balanced Fill-Flash) for more natural-looking results‚ and TTL-FN (Front-Curtain Sync) for standard flash timing․ Utilizing TTL mode is ideal for general photography where precise flash control isn’t paramount‚ offering convenience and consistent results․ It’s a great starting point for photographers new to external flash units‚ streamlining the process and delivering reliable performance․
Manual Mode
Manual mode on the Nikon SB-700 grants photographers complete control over flash power output․ This is crucial for situations demanding precise lighting‚ such as studio work or overcoming challenging ambient light․ Users can adjust the flash’s power level in increments‚ allowing for fine-tuning to achieve the desired effect․ This mode bypasses the camera’s automatic settings‚ offering creative freedom and consistent results․
To operate in manual mode‚ the SB-700’s dial is set accordingly‚ and the power level is adjusted using the flash’s controls․ Test shots are recommended to dial in the perfect exposure․ Manual mode is particularly useful when TTL mode struggles‚ or when a specific aesthetic is desired‚ providing ultimate control over the final image’s illumination․
Repeat Mode (Stroboscopic Flash)
The SB-700’s Repeat (or Stroboscopic) mode emits a series of rapid flashes‚ creating unique effects․ This mode is ideal for capturing motion blur while simultaneously freezing a subject‚ or for painting with light in low-light environments․ The flash rate is adjustable‚ allowing photographers to control the intensity and appearance of the effect․ It’s a creative tool for artistic expression․
To activate Repeat mode‚ the SB-700’s mode dial is set to the appropriate setting․ The number of flashes per second can then be adjusted via the menu system․ Experimentation is key to mastering this mode‚ as the optimal settings depend on the subject’s speed and the desired aesthetic outcome․
Distance Priority Mode
Distance Priority Mode on the Nikon SB-700 automatically sets the flash exposure based on the distance to the subject‚ measured by the camera․ This mode is particularly useful when the subject’s reflectivity is inconsistent or unknown‚ ensuring a more accurate exposure․ The camera communicates the distance information to the flash‚ which then adjusts the power output accordingly․
To utilize Distance Priority Mode‚ the flash must be set to the appropriate setting on the mode dial․ The camera needs to be compatible and set to a supported mode․ This mode excels in situations where consistent flash exposure is crucial‚ simplifying the process and delivering reliable results for the photographer․
Creative Lighting System (CLS) Integration
The SB-700 seamlessly integrates with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System‚ enabling wireless TTL control‚ commander and remote functionalities for expanded photographic possibilities․
Wireless TTL Operation
The Nikon SB-700 excels in wireless TTL operation‚ a cornerstone of the Creative Lighting System․ This allows photographers to control the flash remotely from a compatible Nikon camera or commander unit․ Utilizing radio frequencies‚ the SB-700 communicates effectively‚ even when not in direct line of sight‚ offering flexibility in complex shooting scenarios․
To initiate wireless TTL‚ the SB-700 must be set to remote mode‚ and paired with a commander․ The commander transmits TTL exposure data‚ enabling the flash to automatically adjust its power output for balanced illumination․ Group identification and channel selection are crucial for managing multiple flash units‚ preventing interference and ensuring precise control over each light source․ This feature unlocks creative possibilities for portrait‚ event‚ and various other photographic genres․
Commander Mode
The SB-700’s Commander Mode transforms it into a master controller for other Nikon Speedlights․ When mounted on a compatible camera‚ it wirelessly transmits TTL or manual flash commands to multiple remote units‚ creating a sophisticated lighting setup․ This functionality is central to Nikon’s Creative Lighting System‚ offering photographers extensive control over off-camera flash․
Through the camera’s menu‚ you can assign Speedlights to different groups and channels‚ adjusting their power levels and modes independently․ Commander Mode supports both optical and radio communication‚ ensuring reliable triggering and control․ It’s ideal for studio work‚ event photography‚ and any situation demanding precise off-camera flash manipulation‚ expanding creative lighting possibilities significantly․
Remote Mode
In Remote Mode‚ the SB-700 functions as a slave flash‚ responding to signals from a compatible Nikon camera equipped with a Commander function or another Speedlight operating in Commander Mode․ This allows for off-camera flash setups where the SB-700 is triggered wirelessly‚ expanding creative lighting options beyond on-camera limitations․
The SB-700 can receive TTL or manual flash commands‚ depending on the settings of the controlling unit․ Proper channel and group selection are crucial for reliable communication․ Remote Mode is particularly useful for situations where direct flash is undesirable‚ enabling photographers to bounce flash off surfaces or create more dynamic lighting arrangements‚ enhancing image quality and artistic expression․
Group Identification and Channel Selection
Effective use of Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS) relies heavily on correct group identification and channel selection․ The SB-700 allows assignment to four different groups (A‚ B‚ C‚ and D)‚ enabling independent control of multiple Speedlights․ Selecting the appropriate channel ensures communication only occurs between the commander and intended flashes‚ preventing interference from other nearby systems․
Matching the channel on the SB-700 to the commander unit is essential for proper operation․ Group selection determines which Speedlights respond to commands from the commander․ Careful configuration of these settings allows photographers to orchestrate complex lighting setups with precision‚ maximizing the potential of the CLS for creative control․
Powering the SB-700 and Battery Information
The SB-700 utilizes four AA-size batteries‚ offering substantial power and performance for extended shooting sessions‚ with options for external power sources․
Battery Type and Installation
The Nikon SB-700 operates on four AA-size alkaline or Ni-MH batteries․ Nikon recommends using high-performance alkaline batteries for optimal results‚ especially when utilizing power-intensive features like high-speed sync or frequent bursts of flash․ To install‚ locate the battery compartment on the side of the flash unit․ Slide the battery compartment cover open‚ observing the polarity markings (+ and -) inside․ Insert the batteries accordingly‚ ensuring they click securely into place․
Incorrect battery installation can prevent the flash from functioning correctly․ It’s crucial to use the same type of batteries simultaneously – do not mix old and new batteries‚ or different battery chemistries․ The SB-700 also supports external power via an optional power pack‚ providing extended runtime for professional applications and demanding shoots․
Battery Life and Performance
The Nikon SB-700’s battery life varies significantly based on usage patterns and battery type․ With alkaline batteries‚ you can expect approximately 220 flashes at full power․ However‚ typical shooting scenarios involving a mix of full‚ 1/2‚ and 1/4 power flashes will yield considerably more – potentially up to 500 or more․ Ni-MH rechargeable batteries offer similar performance‚ though their voltage may impact flash recycle times․
Factors like modeling flash frequency‚ high-speed sync usage‚ and ambient temperature also influence battery drain․ Conserving power by disabling unnecessary features and utilizing the auto power-off function can extend battery life during extended periods of inactivity․
Low Battery Warning
The Nikon SB-700 provides a clear visual warning when battery power is running low․ A blinking orange indicator light on the flash’s rear panel signals that the batteries need replacing or recharging․ This warning typically appears with enough remaining power to deliver approximately 50-100 additional flashes‚ allowing time to swap batteries during a shoot․
It’s crucial to heed this warning promptly‚ as continued operation with low batteries can lead to unpredictable flash output or complete flash failure․ Always carry spare batteries‚ especially during critical events or extended shooting sessions‚ to avoid interruptions․ Ignoring the warning may also affect the flash’s performance․
External Power Options
For extended shooting demanding consistent power‚ the Nikon SB-700 supports external power sources․ A DC input terminal allows connection to an optional Nikon power supply‚ such as the SD-9 or SD-8A․ Utilizing an external power pack eliminates concerns about battery life‚ ensuring uninterrupted operation during lengthy photoshoots or events․
Connecting an external power supply is straightforward; simply plug the appropriate cable into the SB-700’s DC input․ The flash will automatically draw power from the external source‚ bypassing the internal batteries․ This is particularly useful for studio work or situations where frequent battery changes are impractical․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Addressing potential problems‚ the SB-700 may experience firing failures‚ communication errors‚ overheating‚ or menu system glitches requiring careful review of settings․
Flash Not Firing
If the SB-700 fails to fire‚ begin by verifying the power switch is correctly positioned to the ‘ON’ state and the battery is adequately charged․ Ensure proper contact between the flash foot and the camera’s hot shoe; a secure connection is crucial for communication․ Confirm the camera is set to a flash mode allowing for external flash use‚ such as TTL or Manual․
Check the flash compensation setting – if set too low‚ it might prevent firing․ In wireless modes‚ verify correct group and channel selections․ If using High-Speed Sync (HSS)‚ ensure both the camera and flash support this feature and it’s enabled in the settings․ Finally‚ a safety lock might be engaged; disengage it to allow operation․ A full reset of the flash to factory defaults can also resolve unexpected behavior․
Communication Errors
Experiencing communication errors between the SB-700 and your Nikon camera often indicates a problem with the hot shoe connection․ First‚ power cycle both the camera and the flash․ Inspect the hot shoe and flash foot for any debris or damage that might obstruct the signal․ Ensure the flash is securely mounted; a loose connection disrupts communication․
Verify compatibility – while generally compatible with Nikon DSLRs‚ older models might have limitations․ In wireless modes‚ double-check group and channel settings match those on the commander or other remote flashes․ Interference from other electronic devices can sometimes cause issues; try moving to a different location․ A firmware update for both camera and flash can resolve compatibility problems․
Overheating Protection
The Nikon SB-700 incorporates overheating protection to prevent damage from prolonged‚ high-intensity use․ If the flash head is repeatedly fired at full power for an extended period‚ it may automatically shut down‚ indicated by the overheating warning in the display․ This is a safety mechanism‚ not a malfunction․
Allow the flash to cool down completely before attempting to use it again – this typically takes several minutes․ Reducing flash power output or decreasing the frequency of bursts can help prevent overheating․ Ensure adequate ventilation around the flash unit․ Continuous‚ rapid firing is the primary cause‚ so consider using slower shooting modes or lower power settings during extended shoots․
Menu System Errors
Occasionally‚ users might encounter errors within the SB-700’s menu system․ These can manifest as frozen screens‚ unresponsive buttons‚ or garbled displays․ A simple first step is to power the flash off and then on again; this often resolves temporary glitches․ If the issue persists‚ try removing and reinserting the batteries‚ ensuring they are correctly installed․
In rare cases‚ a factory reset might be necessary․ Consult the full Nikon SB-700 manual for instructions on performing a reset‚ as this will restore all settings to their defaults․ If errors continue after these steps‚ it may indicate a more serious internal problem requiring professional repair or Nikon support assistance․
Advanced Techniques with the SB-700
Mastering high-speed sync‚ rear-curtain sync‚ and fill-flash unlocks the SB-700’s full potential‚ enabling creative control and professional-quality lighting effects․
High-Speed Sync (HSS)
High-Speed Sync allows the SB-700 to synchronize with shutter speeds faster than your camera’s standard flash sync speed‚ typically around 1/250th of a second․ This is crucial for overpowering sunlight when using a wide aperture for shallow depth of field․ Without HSS‚ you’d be limited to the sync speed‚ potentially resulting in dark images or needing to stop down the aperture․
Enabling HSS on the SB-700 and your Nikon camera unlocks creative possibilities‚ letting you freeze motion and maintain proper exposure in bright conditions․ It’s particularly useful for portraiture and sports photography․ Remember to check your camera’s manual for specific HSS activation instructions‚ as it varies between models․ The SB-700’s guide number of 28 (at ISO 100‚ 35mm) is effectively utilized with HSS․
Rear-Curtain Sync
Rear-Curtain Sync alters when the flash fires relative to the shutter curtain․ Normally‚ the flash fires just before the shutter closes (front-curtain sync)․ Rear-curtain sync delays the flash until after the shutter has fully opened‚ creating a different effect with moving subjects․
This technique is ideal for capturing light trails from moving vehicles‚ or showing motion blur behind a subject‚ giving a sense of speed and direction․ To activate rear-curtain sync‚ you’ll need to access your camera’s flash settings‚ typically within the menu system․ The SB-700 seamlessly integrates with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System to facilitate this‚ offering expanded creative control alongside its intuitive interface․
Fill-Flash Techniques
Fill-flash is employed to brighten shadows and balance exposure in situations with strong backlighting or contrast․ Instead of being the primary light source‚ the flash subtly supplements existing light‚ preventing harsh shadows and preserving detail․ The SB-700’s flash compensation settings are crucial for fine-tuning the fill-flash intensity․
Experimenting with negative flash compensation is key – reducing the flash power ensures a natural look․ This technique is particularly effective in portraiture‚ softening facial shadows and adding a sparkle to the eyes․ Utilizing the SB-700’s intuitive controls allows for quick adjustments‚ enabling photographers to achieve balanced and pleasing results in challenging lighting conditions․
Bounce Flash Techniques
Bounce flash utilizes surfaces like ceilings or walls to diffuse the flash‚ creating softer‚ more natural-looking light․ The SB-700’s tilt and swivel head are essential for directing the flash towards these reflective surfaces․ This technique minimizes harsh shadows and provides even illumination‚ ideal for portraits and event photography․
Adjusting the zoom head is vital; a wider zoom setting spreads the light for larger bounce surfaces‚ while a narrower setting concentrates it for smaller areas․ Experimentation with different bounce angles and flash power levels is encouraged to achieve the desired effect․ The SB-700’s versatility allows photographers to master bounce flash for professional-quality results․