Nikon SB-700 Flash Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
Welcome to a detailed exploration of the Nikon SB-700 Speedlight! This guide will serve as your comprehensive resource, providing information to master its features. From basic setup to advanced techniques, we’ll help you unlock the potential of your SB-700 and improve your photography skills.
The Nikon SB-700 Speedlight is a versatile and high-performance flash unit designed to enhance your photography with Nikon DSLR cameras. Replacing the SB-600, the SB-700 offers a blend of power, features, and user-friendly operation. This speedlight is compatible with the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS), allowing for advanced wireless flash control. It is suitable for both beginners exploring flash photography and experienced users seeking a reliable and capable tool.
With a guide number of 28/39 (ISO 100/200, m) at the 35mm zoom head position (in Nikon FX format with standard illumination pattern, 20°C/68°F), the SB-700 provides ample illumination for various shooting scenarios. Its compact and lightweight design ensures portability, making it easy to carry as part of your essential photography gear. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the SB-700, from initial setup to mastering advanced techniques such as TTL mode, manual control, and wireless commander functions. Whether you’re looking to improve your on-camera flash results or explore creative off-camera lighting setups, the SB-700 offers the flexibility and performance to meet your needs. Dive in to discover how to maximize the potential of this excellent flash unit.
Key Features and Specifications
The Nikon SB-700 Speedlight is packed with features designed to improve your photography. Weighing in at just 360 grams, with dimensions of 71 x 104.5 x 126 mm, this compact flash unit is easy to carry. It boasts a guide number of 28m (ISO 100) at 35mm, providing ample light output. Compatible with Nikon’s i-TTL flash control system, the SB-700 offers precise automatic flash exposure.
The flash supports multiple modes, including TTL, Manual, and Wireless Commander. It features a zoom range of 24-120mm, which can be extended to 12mm with the built-in wide-angle diffuser. The SB-700 is powered by four AA batteries, delivering reliable performance. Its key features include bounce and swivel capabilities, allowing for creative lighting techniques. The unit also incorporates thermal cutoff protection, preventing overheating during continuous use. The SB-700 supports high-speed sync (HSS), enabling you to use faster shutter speeds with flash. Its wireless commander mode allows it to control other Nikon Speedlights remotely, expanding your lighting options. These features combine to make the SB-700 a versatile tool for photographers of all levels.
Understanding the Control Panel and Buttons
Navigating the Nikon SB-700’s control panel is crucial for maximizing its potential. The LCD screen displays vital information such as flash mode, zoom head position, and battery level. The main dial allows you to quickly adjust flash power in manual mode or navigate through custom settings. The mode selector button lets you switch between TTL, Manual, Distance-Priority Manual, and Commander modes. The ‘OK’ button confirms selections and enters sub-menus.
The SB-700 features dedicated buttons for controlling zoom head position, flash compensation, and modeling light. The ‘Menu’ button grants access to custom settings, enabling you to fine-tune flash behavior. The power switch turns the unit on or off, while the test button fires a manual flash for testing purposes. The wireless mode button lets you configure the SB-700 as a commander or remote unit within Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS). Understanding the function of each button and indicator on the control panel ensures efficient and precise control over your flash output. Familiarizing yourself with these controls will streamline your workflow and unlock the SB-700’s full capabilities.
Basic Operation: On-Camera Flash Photography
Using the Nikon SB-700 on-camera is a straightforward way to add light to your photographs. Ensure the SB-700 is securely mounted on your camera’s hot shoe and powered on. In TTL mode, the flash automatically meters the scene and adjusts its output for proper exposure. Half-press the shutter button to allow the camera and flash to communicate and determine the appropriate flash power. Fully press the shutter to capture the image with the flash.
For more control, switch to manual mode. Here, you can set the flash power manually, giving you precise control over the amount of light added to the scene. Start with a low power setting and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired effect. Pay attention to your camera’s histogram to avoid overexposing the image. Experiment with different zoom head positions to adjust the coverage of the flash. A wider zoom setting provides broader coverage, while a narrower setting concentrates the light. Using the SB-700 on-camera is a fundamental skill for any photographer, providing fill light to eliminate shadows.
TTL Mode: Automatic Flash Exposure
TTL (Through-The-Lens) mode on the Nikon SB-700 offers automated flash exposure, simplifying the process of capturing well-lit images. In this mode, the camera and flash communicate to determine the optimal flash output for a given scene. When you half-press the shutter button, the camera meters the ambient light and instructs the SB-700 to emit a pre-flash. The camera then measures the light reflected back through the lens and adjusts the flash power accordingly.
TTL mode is particularly useful in dynamic shooting situations where lighting conditions change rapidly. It allows you to focus on composition and timing without constantly adjusting the flash settings. However, it’s essential to understand that TTL is not always perfect. Factors such as reflective surfaces or extreme lighting contrasts can sometimes fool the meter, resulting in over- or underexposed images. In such cases, you can use flash exposure compensation to fine-tune the flash output. By adjusting the FEC, you can tell the flash to emit more or less light than what the camera initially calculated. This level of control allows you to achieve the desired exposure even in challenging lighting scenarios.
Manual Mode: Taking Control of Flash Power
Stepping away from automation, Manual mode on the Nikon SB-700 empowers you with complete command over the flash’s output. This mode is essential for consistent and predictable results, particularly in controlled environments or when striving for specific creative effects. In Manual mode, you set the flash power level directly, independent of the camera’s metering system. This allows you to fine-tune the light output to match your artistic vision.
The SB-700 typically offers a range of power settings, often expressed as fractions (e.g., 1/1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, and so on). A setting of 1/1 represents full power, while smaller fractions reduce the output accordingly. Understanding the relationship between flash power, aperture, ISO, and distance is crucial for mastering Manual mode. For example, if your image is underexposed, you might increase the flash power or widen the lens aperture.
Manual mode is invaluable when shooting multiple subjects at varying distances or when using the flash off-camera with a light meter. It provides consistency and eliminates the potential for the camera’s metering system to be fooled by complex lighting situations. While it requires more practice and understanding than TTL mode, Manual mode unlocks the full creative potential of your SB-700.
Using the SB-700 as a Wireless Commander
The Nikon SB-700 isn’t just a capable on-camera flash; it can also function as a wireless commander, controlling other Nikon Speedlights remotely. This opens up a world of creative lighting possibilities, allowing you to position flashes off-camera to sculpt light and add dimension to your photographs. As a commander, the SB-700 communicates wirelessly with remote flashes using Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS).
To use the SB-700 as a commander, you’ll need a CLS-compatible Nikon camera. Consult your camera’s manual to ensure compatibility and understand how to access the camera’s flash control menu. Within the menu, you’ll typically find options to designate the SB-700 as a commander and configure settings for the remote flashes. These settings include the channel, group, and power level for each remote flash. Channels help prevent interference from other photographers using CLS nearby, while groups allow you to control different sets of flashes independently.
When setting up the remote flashes, ensure they are set to the correct channel and group to communicate with the commander. With the SB-700 as your wireless commander, you can control the power and settings of your remote flashes directly from your camera, making it easier to experiment with various lighting setups.
Setting up Remote Flashes with CLS
The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) empowers you to create sophisticated lighting setups with multiple flashes, all controlled wirelessly. Setting up remote flashes with CLS involves a few key steps to ensure seamless communication between your commander flash (like the SB-700) and the remote units. First, you need to ensure that all your flashes are compatible with the CLS system. Consult your flash manuals to verify CLS support.
Next, assign a channel and a group to each flash. The channel ensures that your flashes communicate only with each other and not with other photographers’ flashes. The group allows you to control different sets of flashes independently, adjusting their power levels or turning them on and off as needed. Typically, you’ll access the flash’s menu to set the channel and group.
On your commander flash (the SB-700 in this case), you’ll also need to set the channel to match the remote flashes. Then, configure the commander to control the remote flashes’ power levels. You can usually do this through the camera’s flash control menu, where you’ll see options to adjust the output of each group of flashes. Once everything is set, test the connection by taking a test shot. Make adjustments as needed to achieve your desired lighting effect.
Advanced Techniques: Bounce Flash and Diffusion
Moving beyond direct flash opens up a world of creative possibilities. Two fundamental advanced techniques are bounce flash and diffusion, each designed to soften and spread the light for more pleasing results. Bounce flash involves aiming your flash head at a nearby surface, such as a ceiling or wall, rather than directly at your subject. This indirect light source creates a larger, softer light that wraps around your subject, reducing harsh shadows and highlights.
Experiment with different bouncing surfaces to see how they affect the color and quality of light. White surfaces provide neutral reflections, while colored surfaces can add a subtle tint to your image. Diffusion, on the other hand, involves placing a translucent material between the flash and your subject. This material scatters the light, effectively increasing the size of the light source and softening its intensity.
Many diffusers are available, from simple plastic caps to more elaborate softboxes. The larger the diffuser, the softer the light. Combining bounce flash with diffusion can yield exceptional results, creating a very soft and flattering light. For example, bouncing the flash off a white ceiling while using a diffuser on the flash head will minimize shadows and create a natural-looking illumination. Mastering these techniques will significantly improve your flash photography.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, you might encounter issues using your Nikon SB-700. One common problem is underexposed images. This can occur if the flash power is too low, the subject is too far away, or the camera settings are incorrect. Ensure your flash is charged, the zoom head is properly positioned, and your ISO and aperture are appropriate for the scene.
Another issue is overexposed images, often caused by excessive flash power or incorrect TTL metering. Try reducing the flash compensation or switching to manual mode for finer control. If your images have strange color casts, check the white balance settings on both your camera and flash. Using the wrong white balance can result in unnatural skin tones or inaccurate colors.
Also, if your SB-700 fails to fire, confirm that it’s properly attached to the camera’s hot shoe and that the contacts are clean. Check the flash mode and ensure it’s compatible with your camera settings. If using the SB-700 wirelessly, verify that both the commander and remote units are correctly configured and within range. Battery issues can also cause erratic flash behavior, so always use fresh batteries. By systematically addressing these potential problems, you can resolve most common SB-700 malfunctions.
Maintenance and Storage Tips
Proper maintenance and storage are essential to prolonging the life of your Nikon SB-700 flash. After each use, clean the flash unit with a soft, dry cloth to remove any fingerprints, dust, or moisture. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as they can damage the plastic components. Pay close attention to the hot shoe contact points, ensuring they are free from dirt or corrosion.
When storing the SB-700, remove the batteries to prevent potential leakage and corrosion, which can severely damage the internal electronics. Store the flash in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures; The provided soft case offers good protection against dust and minor impacts during storage and transport.
Regularly inspect the flash head and reflector for any signs of damage, such as cracks or scratches. Check the battery compartment for corrosion and clean it if necessary. If you notice any unusual noises or malfunctions, consult a qualified technician for repair. By following these maintenance and storage tips, you can ensure that your SB-700 remains in excellent condition and continues to deliver reliable performance for years to come. Finally, avoid dropping the flash, as this may cause irreparable damage.
Downloading the User Manual
Accessing the official Nikon SB-700 user manual is a straightforward process, providing you with a wealth of information at your fingertips. Nikon offers the manual as a downloadable PDF file, readily available on their support website. To begin, navigate to the Nikon Download Center, typically found under the “Support” section of the Nikon website.
Once on the Download Center page, search for “SB-700” in the product search bar. You will find the user manual listed among the available downloads. Select the appropriate language version of the manual. Before downloading, you may be prompted to accept the terms and conditions of the download agreement.
After accepting the terms, the PDF file will begin downloading to your computer or mobile device. Ensure you have a PDF reader installed, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader, to open and view the manual. The manual contains detailed instructions, diagrams, and troubleshooting tips. Keeping a digital copy of the manual on your smartphone or tablet allows for quick reference in the field, ensuring you always have the information you need to maximize your SB-700’s potential. The Nikon Manual Viewer 2 is available for download.