Nikon SB-910 User Manual Download

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User’s Manual

Autofocus Speedlight

Summary of Contents for SB-910

Page 1: ...User s Manual Autofocus Speedlight En ...

Page 2: ...king for i Table of contents 0A 11 You can search by item such as operation method flash mode or function i Q A index 0A 9 You can search according to objective without knowing the specific name or term of an item i Index 0H 22 You can search using the alphabetical index i Troubleshooting 0H 1 This is handy when there is a problem with your Speedlight For your safety Before using the Speedlight fo...

Page 3: ...as purchased or the seller immediately Speedlight Stand AS 21 Soft Case SS 910 Nikon Diffusion Dome SW 13H User s manual this manual Fluorescent Filter SZ 2FL A collection of example photos Incandescent Filter SZ 2TN Warranty card Soft Case SS 910 SB 910 Speedlight Stand AS 21 Fluorescent Filter SZ 2FL Incandescent Filter SZ 2TN Nikon Diffusion Dome SW 13H ...

Page 4: ...ra compatible with CLS and a CPU lens 0A 5 To get the most out of your Speedlight please read this user s manual thoroughly before use For use with non CLS compatible SLR cameras see For Use with Non CLS compatible SLR Cameras 0F 1 For use with i TTL compatible COOLPIX cameras P5100 P5000 E8800 E8400 see For Use with COOLPIX Cameras 0G 1 The separate A collection of example photos provides an over...

Page 5: ...A 5 A Preparation t Tips on identifying CPU NIKKOR lenses CPU lenses have CPU contacts The SB 910 cannot be used with IX Nikkor lenses CPU contacts ...

Page 6: ...even and center weighted FX format DX format Nikon digital SLR camera image area types FX format 36 24 DX format 24 16 Guide number GN The amount of light generated by a flash unit GN flash to subject distance m or ft aperture f number ISO 100 Zoom head position Position of a Speedlight zoom head the angle of coverage changes as the zoom head position changes Effective flash output distance Flash ...

Page 7: ...sh mode Non TTL auto flash mode with aperture priority the Speedlight measures the reflected flash and controls the flash output according to the reflected flash data and the lens and camera information Non TTL auto flash mode Auto flash mode without TTL the Speedlight measures the reflected flash and controls the flash output according to the reflected flash data Distance priority manual flash mo...

Page 8: ...nits simultaneously firing Master flash unit The flash unit that commands remote flash units in multiple flash unit photography Remote flash unit A flash unit that fires following commands from the master flash unit Advanced Wireless Lighting Wireless multiple flash unit photography with CLS multiple remote flash unit groups can be controlled with the master flash unit SU 4 type wireless multiple ...

Page 9: ... darker pictures of the subject Flash compensation E 17 How can I take pictures under fluorescent light and incandescent light and balance the lights color effects Color compensation filters E 12 How can I take pictures adding specific color to the light of Speedlight Color filters E 12 How can I use autofocus in dim lighting AF assist illumination E 19 How can I take pictures of both the subject ...

Page 10: ...iple flash unit photography CLS compatible COOLPIX camera G 1 Settings and operations Question Key phrase 0 What kind of batteries do I use in the Speedlight Compatible battery B 7 How long is the recycling time and how many flashes are possible with each fresh set of batteries Min number of flashes recycling time for each battery type H 21 How can I change the settings of functions Custom setting...

Page 11: ... C 5 Non TTL Auto Flash Mode C 8 Distance priority Manual Flash Mode C 12 Manual Flash Mode C 15 Repeating Flash Mode C 18 D Wireless Multiple Flash unit Photography SB 910 Wireless Multiple Flash unit Photography Setup D 1 SB 910 Wireless Multiple Flash unit Functions D 4 Setting the Master Flash Unit D 6 Setting the Remote Flash Unit D 7 Advanced Wireless Lighting D 8 SU 4 Type Wireless Multiple...

Page 12: ...7 Power zoom function E 18 AF assist illumination E 19 I SO sensitivity manual setting E 21 Test firing E 21 Modeling illumination E 21 Standby function E 22 Thermal cut out E 23 Functions to Be Set on the Camera E 24 Auto FP high speed sync E 24 Flash value lock FV lock E 25 Slow sync E 25 Red eye reduction red eye reduction slow sync E 25 Rear curtain sync E 26 F For Use with Non CLS compatible ...

Page 13: ...ormation Troubleshooting H 1 Guide Number Aperture and Flash to subject Distance H 4 Tips on Speedlight Care H 5 Notes on Batteries H 7 About the LCD Panel H 8 Updating Firmware H 9 Optional Accessories H 10 Specifications H 13 Index H 22 B C D E F G H ...

Page 14: ...ontact with 2 your skin or clothes wash immediately with running water Prolonged contact could injure your skin Never attempt to disassemble or repair the flash unit by yourself 3 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 If the flash unit is dropped and damaged do not touch any exposed 4 inte...

Page 15: ...n the person being burned and or their clothes igniting from the heat of the flash s firing Keep small accessories out of the reach of children 11 to avoid the possibility of the accessory being swallowed If an accessory is accidentally swallowed immediately consult with a doctor Use only the batteries specified in this user s manual 12 Batteries other than those specified could leak corrosive liq...

Page 16: ...o leak corrosive liquids generate heat or explode Do not short circuit or disassemble the batteries 2 because this could cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids generate heat or explode Do not mix battery types brands or old and new batteries 3 as this could cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids generate heat or explode Do not install batteries in the reverse direction as this could ...

Page 17: ...ged in water exposed to rain 13 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 Do not use any battery that appears abnormal in any way including 14 a change in color or shape Such batteries could leak corrosive liquids or generate heat Stop recharging r...

Page 18: ...ol for separate collection applicable in European countries 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 manag...

Page 19: ...ras accessories could damage the SB 910 s components Nikon cannot guarantee the SB 910 s performance when used with non Nikon products Life long learning As part of Nikon s life long learning commitment to ongoing product support and education continually updated information is available online at the following websites For users in the United States http www nikonusa com For users in Europe and A...

Page 20: ...ight sensor window for wireless remote flash 0D 17 6 Built in bounce card 0E 8 7 Built in wide panel 0E 10 8 Flash panel 9 Filter detector 0E 14 10 AF assist illuminator 0E 19 11 Flash ready indicator in remote mode 0D 20 12 External power source terminal supplied with cover 0H 11 13 Light sensor for non TTL auto flash 0C 5 C 8 14 External AF assist illuminator contacts 15 Locking pin 16 Accessory...

Page 21: ... 22 24 19 18 23 18 Flash head tilting angle scale 0E 4 19 Flash head rotating angle scale 0E 4 20 Sync terminal cover 21 Sync terminal 22 LCD panel 0B 12 23 Flash ready indicator 0B 11 D 20 24 Mounting foot lock lever 0B 8 ...

Page 22: ...0E 21 The button function test firing and modeling illumination can be changed in the custom settings 0B 17 31 Lock release To set wireless mode for multiple flash units rotate the power switch wireless mode switch for multiple flash units while holding down the lock release in the center of the switch 0D 6 D 7 32 Power switch wireless mode switch for multiple flash units Rotate to turn power on a...

Page 23: ...con is printed simultaneously for 2 seconds The key lock icon appears on the LCD and the dial and buttons are locked The power switch wireless mode switch for multiple flash units and the test firing button remain unlocked To cancel key lock press function buttons 1 and 2 again simultaneously for 2 seconds ...

Page 24: ...and settings icons Zoom head position Flash compensation value Flash output level in manual flash mode Amount of underexposure due to insufficient flash output in i TTL mode Aperture Flash to subject distance in distance priority manual flash mode Number and frequency of flash firings Change setting items Illumination pattern Activate power zoom function With wireless multiple flash unit photograp...

Page 25: ...l cut out indicator appears on the LCD and all operations except power ON OFF and custom settings are suspended 0E 23 Allow it to cool down for several minutes to disable this function The conditions under which the internal safety function is activated differ depending on the temperature and the SB 910 flash output level For use with High performance Battery Pack SD 9 optional see Using High perf...

Page 26: ... For minimum recycling time and number of flashes for each battery type refer to Specifications 0H 21 Alkaline battery performance may vary greatly depending on the manufacturer 1 5 V R6 AA size carbon zinc batteries are not recommended Using an optional external power source increases the number of flashes and provides shorter recycling times 0H 11 v Additional precautions regarding batteries Rea...

Page 27: ...batteries STEP 2 Attaching the SB 910 to the camera Make sure the SB 910 and the camera body are turned off Make sure the mounting foot lock lever is on the left white dot Slide the SB 910 s mounting foot into the camera s accessory shoe Turn the lock lever to L v Lock the Speedlight in place Turn the lock lever clockwise until it stops at the mounting foot lock index ...

Page 28: ...lock lever 90 to the left again and slide the SB 910 slowly out Do not forcibly remove the SB 910 STEP 3 Adjusting the flash head Adjust the flash head to the forward facing position while holding down the flash head tilting rotating lock release button The flash head is locked when tilted 90 up or set in the forward facing position LCD indicator for flash head status Flash head is set in the forw...

Page 29: ...t illumination pattern standard ISO sensitivity 200 zoom head position 24 mm aperture f number 5 6 Icons on the LCD may differ depending on the SB 910 settings and the camera and lens in use Flash mode ISO sensitivity Effective flash output distance range Zoom head position Aperture f number FX format SB 910 status icons Connected to a CLS compatible camera Functions assigned for function buttons ...

Page 30: ...Press the OK button Changing the flash mode Rotate the selector dial clockwise to display icons of available flash mode on the LCD Only available flash modes are displayed on the LCD The flash mode can also be selected with the MODE button Make sure that the flash ready indicator on the SB 910 or in the camera s viewfinder is on before taking a picture ...

Page 31: ...e selector dial Press the OK button to confirm setting Once confirmed the highlighted item returns to normal display If the OK button is not pressed the highlighted item is confirmed and returns to normal display after 8 seconds t Two button reset Press function buttons 1 and 3 a green dot is printed by each button simultaneously for 2 seconds to reset all settings except custom settings to defaul...

Page 32: ...10 Functions and settings indicated with grid boxes do not function even though they can be configured and set Custom settings Press the MENU button to display the custom settings Rotate the selector dial to choose an item and then press the OK button The highlighted item can be configured Item being configured Items indicated with grid boxes can be configured but do not effect flash operation ...

Page 33: ...t the chosen setting and then press the OK button Highlighted while selected Press the OK button to return display to item selection Press the MENU button to return to normal display The LCD returns to normal display Available selection º Current setting ...

Page 34: ...ustom settings and press the OK button Select custom settings item to be set as My Menu with the selector dial and press function button 2 The selected item will have a ticked check box No check box appears for an item that cannot be selected To untick a check box press function button 2 again To return to My Menu setting without saving press function button 1 Repeat procedure to set all desired i...

Page 35: ... The number of pages displayed varies from one to five depending on the settings The position of the displayed page is indicated in the bar Display mode The custom settings display mode My Menu or Full Menu can be changed with function button 3 Go to previous page Go to next page Position of displayed page within custom settings Full Menu display My Menu display ...

Page 36: ...e flashes Master flash unit repeating flash mode 0D 10 ON Repeating flash mode on OFF Repeating flash mode off Flash compensation step in manual flash mode 0C 17 Setting flash compensation step between M1 1 and M1 2 in manual flash mode 1 3 EV Compensation with 1 3 EV step 1 EV Compensation with 1 EV step Wireless mode for multiple flash units 0D 1 Advanced Advanced Wireless Lighting SU 4 SU 4 typ...

Page 37: ...on canceled OFF Power zoom function activated AF assist illumination canceling flash function 0E 20 Activating or canceling AF assist illumination and flash function ON Both AF assist illumination and flash function activated OFF AF assist illumination canceled flash function activated AF ONLY AF assist illumination activated flash function canceled only AF assist illuminator lights up Standby fun...

Page 38: ...link light up in remote mode to save power REAR FRONT Back indicator lights up front indicator blinks in remote mode REAR Only back indicator lights up FRONT Only front indicator blinks in remote mode LCD panel illumination 0H 8 Activating or canceling LCD panel illumination ON Activated OFF Canceled LCD panel contrast 0H 8 Contrast levels are displayed on the LCD in a nine step graph 5 levels in ...

Page 39: ...d position can be manually set OFF Zoom head position cannot be manually set My Menu setting 0B 15 Selecting custom settings display mode FULL All items displayed MY MENU Items set as My Menu displayed SET UP Select items to be set as My Menu Version of firmware 0H 9 Reset custom settings Reset custom settings to default except measurement unit m ft and My Menu settings YES Reset to default NO Do ...

Page 40: ...automatically adjusted for well balanced exposure of the main subject and background appears on the LCD Standard i TTL The main subject is correctly exposed regardless of background brightness This is useful when you want to highlight the main subject appears on the LCD t Camera s metering mode and i TTL mode When the camera s metering mode is changed to spot metering while i TTL balanced fill fla...

Page 41: ...C 2 C Flash Modes Setting i TTL mode Press the MODE button Rotate the selector dial to display or Press the OK button i TTL mode LCD example Monitor pre flashes i TTL Balanced fill flash ...

Page 42: ...mination pattern ISO sensitivity zoom head position and aperture For more information see Specifications 0H 15 t Auto setting of ISO sensitivity aperture and focal length When using the SB 910 with a CLS compatible camera and a CPU lens ISO sensitivity aperture and focal length are automatically set according to the lens and camera information For more information about ISO sensitivity range see t...

Page 43: ...ure is taken underexposure due to insufficient flash output may have occurred To compensate use a wider aperture or higher ISO sensitivity or move the flash unit closer to the subject and reshoot Amount of underexposure due to insufficient flash output is indicated by the exposure value 0 3 EV to 3 0 EV on the SB 910 s LCD panel for approx 3 seconds Press function button 3 to redisplay exposure va...

Page 44: ... auto aperture flash mode Auto aperture flash mode is non TTL auto flash mode with aperture priority It can be set as a non TTL auto flash mode option in the custom settings 0B 17 Auto aperture flash with monitor pre flashes is the default setting of the non TTL auto flash mode option When no aperture information is transmitted to the SB 910 the flash mode is automatically set to non TTL auto flas...

Page 45: ...a Monitor pre flashes should be activated when auto FP high speed sync 0E 24 or FV lock 0E 25 is used Effective flash output distance range in auto aperture flash mode The effective flash output distance range is indicated by numbers and a bar chart on the LCD The actual flash to subject distance should be within the range displayed The range varies depending on the camera s image area setting ill...

Page 46: ... in the camera s viewfinder blink for approx 3 seconds after a picture is taken underexposure due to insufficient flash output may have occurred To compensate use a wider aperture or higher ISO sensitivity or move the flash unit closer to the subject and reshoot t Checking exposure before taking a picture Test fire the Speedlight under the same conditions and with the same Speedlight and camera se...

Page 47: ...de Non TTL auto flash mode can be set as a non TTL auto flash mode option in the custom settings 0B 17 The default setting of the non TTL auto flash mode option is auto aperture flash non TTL auto flash with aperture priority with monitor pre flashes Press the MODE button Rotate the selector dial to display Press the OK button Non TTL auto flash mode LCD example Aperture underlined when aperture i...

Page 48: ...ed flash data Monitor pre flashes should be activated when auto FP high speed sync 0E 24 or FV lock 0E 25 is used Effective flash output distance range in non TTL auto flash mode The effective flash output distance range is indicated by numbers and a bar chart on the LCD The actual flash to subject distance should be within the range displayed The range varies depending on the camera s image area ...

Page 49: ...s within the effective flash output distance Press the OK button Set the same aperture in the lens or camera as the Speedlight Confirm the flash ready indicator is on and then shoot v When insufficient flash output for correct exposure is indicated When the flash ready indicators on the SB 910 and in the camera s viewfinder blink for approx 3 seconds after a picture is taken underexposure due to i...

Page 50: ... taking a picture Test fire the Speedlight under the same conditions and with the same Speedlight and camera settings before taking the actual picture When the flash ready indicators blink after test firing underexposure due to insufficient flash output may have occurred ...

Page 51: ...n the SB 910 s flash head is tilted up or rotated to the right or left Press the MODE button Rotate the selector dial to display Press the OK button Distance priority manual flash mode LCD example at flash to subject distance of 5 m Flash to subject distance numerical indicator Flash to subject distance T and effective flash output distance range indicator bar When the flash to subject distance ap...

Page 52: ...ready indicator is on and then shoot Flash to subject distance range in distance priority manual flash mode Flash to subject distance range of between 0 3 m and 20 m If the desired flash to subject distance is not displayed select a shorter flash to subject distance E g if the flash to subject distance is 2 7 m select 2 5 m v When insufficient flash output for correct exposure is indicated When th...

Page 53: ...e priority manual flash mode and the flash head is tilted up or rotated to the right or left the flash mode will automatically change to auto aperture flash mode or non TTL auto flash mode In this case the flash mode automatically returns to distance priority manual flash mode when the flash head is adjusted to the forward facing position or tilted down ...

Page 54: ...vel can be set from M1 1 full output to M1 128 to suit creative preferences Underexposure due to insufficient flash output is not indicated in manual flash mode Setting manual flash mode Press the MODE button Rotate the selector dial to display Press the OK button Manual flash mode LCD example Effective flash output distance numerical indicator Flash output level Effective flash output distance T ...

Page 55: ...utput level can be set with function button 2 as well Make the flash to subject distance equal to the effective flash output distance indicated Confirm the flash ready indicator is on and then shoot t When no lens aperture information is transmitted When lens aperture information is not transmitted to the SB 910 aperture can be set with function button 3 Aperture underlined when aperture is set on...

Page 56: ...all When the selector dial is rotated counterclockwise the indicated denominator increases flash output level decreases When the selector dial is rotated clockwise the indicated denominator decreases flash output level increases The flash output level changes in 1 3 EV steps except between 1 1 and 1 2 1 32 0 3 and 1 64 0 7 represent the same flash output level In default setting the flash compensa...

Page 57: ... session Because of the lower shutter speeds use of a tripod is recommended to prevent camera flash unit shake Insufficient flash output for correct exposure is not indicated in repeating flash mode Setting repeating flash mode Press the MODE button Rotate the selector dial to display Press the OK button Repeating flash mode LCD example Flash output level Frequency of flash firings Effective flash...

Page 58: ...d flash firing frequency See the table below for the maximum number of flash firings Maximum number of flash firings Frequency Flash output level M1 8 M1 8 1 3EV M1 8 2 3EV M1 16 M1 16 1 3EV M1 16 2 3EV M1 32 M1 32 1 3EV M1 32 2 3EV M1 64 M1 64 1 3EV M1 64 2 3EV M1 128 1 Hz 14 16 22 30 36 46 60 68 78 90 90 90 90 2 Hz 3 Hz 12 14 18 30 36 46 60 68 78 90 90 90 90 4 Hz 10 12 14 20 24 30 50 56 64 80 80...

Page 59: ... output level can be set between M1 8 and M1 128 Press function button 3 to highlight the number of flash firings rotate the selector dial to choose the number and then press the OK button Press function button 3 to highlight the frequency of flash firings rotate the selector dial to choose the frequency and then press the OK button Determine the guide number according to the flash output level an...

Page 60: ...The effective flash output distance that matches the flash output level and aperture is displayed Set the camera shutter speed Determine the shutter speed with the equation below and set a lower camera shutter speed than the calculated shutter speed Shutter speed number of flash firings frequency of flash firings If the number of flash firings is 10 times and the frequency of flash firings is 5 Hz...

Page 61: ...the actual picture v Exposure compensation in repeating flash mode Overexposure occurs in repeating flash mode when the actual flash to subject distance is equal to the effective flash output distance determined using the f number in the procedure This is because the correct exposure is achieved with a single flash firing To prevent overexposure choose a larger f number on the camera ...

Page 62: ...e wireless multiple flash unit photography are possible The SB 910 s default wireless mode for multiple flash units is Advanced Wireless Lighting Advanced Wireless Lighting is recommended for standard multiple flash unit photography The wireless mode for multiple flash units Advanced Wireless Lighting and SU 4 type wireless multiple flash unit photography can be changed in the custom settings 0B 1...

Page 63: ... Group A Remote flash units Group C Remote flash units Group B Master flash unit mounted on camera The SB 910 mounted on a camera is the master flash unit Up to three groups A B C of remote flash units can be set up Single or several remote flash units can be allocated for one group The master flash unit and each remote flash unit group can operate with a flash compensation value and a flash mode ...

Page 64: ...stop firing when the master flash unit stops firing in AUTO mode Remote flash units Master flash unit mounted on the camera The Speedlight mounted on the camera or the camera s built in flash can be used as the master flash unit Be sure to cancel the master flash unit monitor pre flash function or select a master flash unit flash mode that does not activate monitor pre flashes The flash mode is se...

Page 65: ...ps Group Up to 3 groups A B C Channel 2 4 channels 1 4 SU 4 type wireless multiple flash unit photography Flash mode Auto aperture flash 1 Non TTL auto flash 1 Distance priority manual flash Manual flash AUTO auto M manual OFF flash function canceled Flash compensation Possible 1 The SB 910 operates in auto aperture flash mode irrespective of the non TTL auto flash mode option set in the custom se...

Page 66: ...eled and only the remote flash units fire the master flash unit emits a number of weak light signals to trigger the remote flash units This operation will normally not affect the correct exposure of the subject although the exposure might be affected if the subject is close and a high ISO sensitivity has been set To limit this effect bounce the light by tilting up the master flash unit s flash hea...

Page 67: ...mode switch for multiple flash units to MASTER Turn the switch while holding down the lock release in the center Master mode LCD example i TTL mode Remote flash unit flash mode and flash compensation value Master flash unit flash mode and flash compensation value Channel Master flash unit zoom head position ...

Page 68: ...nit Set the power switch wireless mode switch for multiple flash units to REMOTE Turn the switch while holding down the lock release in the center Remote mode LCD example Advanced Wireless Lighting Sound monitor Remote mode Group Channel Remote flash unit zoom head position ...

Page 69: ...ton Press function button 3 choose a flash compensation value with the selector dial and then press the OK button Press function button 2 to highlight for remote flash unit group Other remote flash unit groups can be chosen with the selector dial Repeat procedures and to set the flash mode and flash compensation value of the remote flash unit group A Repeat procedures and to set the remote flash u...

Page 70: ...n press the OK button Group name and channel number being set appears larger Press function button 2 to highlight the channel choose 1 for channel number with the selector dial and then press the OK button Be sure to choose the same channel number as set on the master flash unit Press function button 1 to highlight the zoom head position choose a zoom head position with the selector dial and then ...

Page 71: ... possible in Advanced Wireless Lighting Repeating flash mode can be activated in the custom settings 0B 17 Repeating flash mode LCD example Channel Frequency of flash firings Flash output level Repeating flash mode Number of flash firings Master flash unit and remote flash unit groups flash function status ...

Page 72: ...utput level number and frequency of flash firings To set the flash output level number and frequency of flash firings see Repeating Flash Mode 0C 19 1 Master flash unit setting Press function button 2 to highlight the selected item Change the setting with the selector dial and then press the OK button Press function button 3 to highlight the channel choose a channel with the selector dial and then...

Page 73: ...e wireless multiple flash unit photography in custom settings 0B 17 Set the power switch wireless mode switch for multiple flash units to MASTER or REMOTE Turn the switch while holding down the lock release in the center Master mode LCD example Master mode SU 4 type Flash mode Remote mode LCD example SU 4 type Flash mode Remote mode Remote flash unit zoom head position Sound monitor SU 4 Type Wire...

Page 74: ...flash mode with the selector dial and then press the OK button v Canceling the master flash unit monitor pre flash function Correct exposure cannot be obtained when the master flash unit emits monitor pre flashes with SU 4 type wireless multiple flash unit photography The SB 910 does not emit monitor pre flashes when used in master mode When the master flash unit is not the SB 910 make sure the ma...

Page 75: ...aster and remote flash units is controlled The maximum distance the SB 910 s light sensor can detect is approx 7 m 23 ft in front of the master flash unit manual mode In M mode the remote flash units start firing in sync with the master flash unit but do not stop firing in sync with the master flash unit Flash output levels of the master and remote flash units are separately set The maximum distan...

Page 76: ...nt electrical noise caused by static electricity or other such electromagnetic waves can trigger them to fire accidentally Always turn the power off when not in use Taking a picture with SU 4 type wireless multiple flash unit photography 1 Remote flash unit setting flash mode and zoom head position Setting AUTO mode example Press the MODE button choose AUTO with the selector dial and then press th...

Page 77: ...aster flash unit setting flash mode Setting auto aperture flash mode example Press the MODE button choose with the selector dial and press the OK button When the remote flash unit flash mode is AUTO auto set the master flash unit flash mode to auto aperture flash non TTL auto flash distance priority manual flash or manual flash 0D 4 When the remote flash unit flash mode is M manual set the master ...

Page 78: ...subject will receive sufficient illumination even when the angle of the flash head is off axis from the subject When the flash to subject distance is very short set the zoom head position wide enough to achieve sufficient light Setting up the remote flash units In most cases position the remote flash units closer to the subject than the camera so that light from the master flash unit can reach the...

Page 79: ...many remote flash units light may be unintentionally picked up by the light sensor of the master flash unit and interfere with correct functioning The practical number of remote flash units for wireless multiple flash unit photography is three In Advanced Wireless Lighting for practical purposes the number of remote flash units should be limited to three for one group Place all remote flash units ...

Page 80: ...aster flash unit light sensor for non TTL auto flash Use the provided Speedlight Stand AS 21 for stable placement of remote flash units Attach and detach the SB 910 to and from the AS 21 in the same way it is attached to detached from the camera s accessory shoe Be sure to press the master flash unit test firing button to test fire remote flash units after setting up Be sure to confirm the remote ...

Page 81: ...ady indicator lights up and the front flash ready indicator blinks 0B 19 Checking flash operation using the flash ready indicator or sound monitor Master flash unit Remote flash unit Speedlight status Flash ready indicator Flash ready indicator Sound monitor Lights up The back indicator lights up and the front indicator blinks One beep Ready to fire Goes out and lights up when ready to fire The ba...

Page 82: ...ffers in sound The remote flash unit light sensor has failed to receive the command light from the master flash unit This is because the light sensor cannot detect when to stop firing in sync with the master flash unit either due to a reflection from the remote flash unit itself or light from another remote flash unit that may have entered the light sensor window Change the direction or position o...

Page 83: ...0E 2 Bounce flash operation 0E 4 Taking close up photographs 0E 9 Flash photography with color filters 0E 12 Flash photography support functions 0E 17 Flash compensation Power zoom function AF assist illumination ISO sensitivity manual setting Test firing Modeling illumination Standby function Thermal cut out Functions to be set on the camera 0E 24 Auto FP high speed sync FV lock Slow sync Red eye...

Page 84: ...sh photography environments Even The light falloff at the edge of the image is less than with the standard illumination pattern Suitable for group photographs in which sufficient light is required without light falloff at the edges Center weighted The center weighted pattern provides larger guide numbers at the center of the image than the standard illumination pattern the light falloff at the edg...

Page 85: ...the illumination pattern The selected illumination pattern is indicated with an icon on the LCD Standard Even Center weighted t When the Nikon Diffusion Dome is attached or the built in wide panel is in use Press function button 1 to change the illumination pattern The zoom head position also changes in accordance with the illumination pattern ...

Page 86: ...ned Overexposure of faces hair and clothes can be reduced The shadows can be softened further using the Nikon Diffusion Dome For more details and comparative example photos see the separate booklet A collection of example photos Setting the flash head Tilt or rotate the SB 910 s flash head by holding down the flash head tilting rotating lock release button The SB 910 s flash head tilts up 90 and d...

Page 87: ... camera Select white or highly reflective surfaces to bounce the light off Otherwise image colors will be influenced by the color of the reflecting surface Take care not to let light from the flash unit illuminate the subject directly The effective distance between the flash head and the reflecting surface is approx 1 m to 2 m 3 3 ft to 6 6 ft depending on photographic conditions If the reflecting...

Page 88: ...unce flash photography to create extremely soft light with virtually no shadow The same effect can be achieved with the camera in either horizontal or vertical position Light is more effectively diffused when the built in wide panel is used 0E 10 Attaching the Nikon Diffusion Dome Attach the Nikon Diffusion Dome as shown in the diagram with the Nikon logo facing up ...

Page 89: ...osition is set at 12 mm 14 mm or 17 mm in FX format and 8 mm 10 mm or 11 mm in DX format 0H 17 The illumination pattern can be changed with function button 1 0E 3 Taking a picture with bounce flash Set the flash mode Set the flash mode i TTL auto aperture flash or non TTL auto flash Camera s LCD Set the camera s aperture shutter speed etc Adjust the flash head and shoot Refer to Setting the flash ...

Page 90: ...exposure first confirm the effective flash output distance range and aperture with the flash head in the forward facing position Next set this aperture on the camera t Using the built in bounce card In bounce flash photography use the SB 910 s built in bounce card to make a portrait subject s eyes look more vibrant by reflecting the light in them Tilt the flash head up 90 Refer to Setting the flas...

Page 91: ...on appears when the flash head is tilted down With the built in wide panel the flash from the SB 910 is diffused This softens shadows and prevents overexposure on faces etc When using a long lens be careful that the light from the flash is not obstructed by the lens barrel Vignetting may occur in close up flash photography due to the illumination pattern lens in use focal length setting etc Theref...

Page 92: ...go Zoom head position indicator When the built in wide panel is attached the zoom head position is automatically set depending on the camera s image area and illumination pattern The zoom head position is set at 12 mm 14 mm or 17 mm in FX format and 8 mm 10 mm or 11 mm in DX format 0H 17 The illumination pattern can be changed with function button 1 0E 3 In the event that the built in wide panel b...

Page 93: ... broken The built in wide panel may break if subjected to strong knocks while on the flash head In this case contact your retailer or Nikon representative If the built in wide panel is broken the zoom head position cannot be set to the desired position The setting for manual positioning of the zoom head can be found in the custom settings 0B 20 When the zoom head position is manually set the indic...

Page 94: ...t lighting Incandescent filter Incandescent Filter SZ 2TN included Balance the color of light from the flash to match that of incandescent or tungsten lighting Color filters Color Filter Set SJ 3 optional Create interesting effects by changing the color of the light emitted by the flash t Color compensation with included and optional filters The included Incandescent Filter SZ 2TN and the optional...

Page 95: ...d along the line marked on the filter Attach the filter to Color Filter Holder SZ 2 optional as shown in the diagram Insert the filter edges into the slits on the holder and then align the filter positioning hole with the holder pin Align the filter identification code silver marks with the black bar on the holder Attach the filter to the filter holder without creasing the filter or leaving any ga...

Page 96: ...r holder before placing the filter holder on the flash head Check the LCD The filter type is displayed Be sure that nothing obstructs the filter detector Red filter is attached FL G1 fluorescent filter RED FL G2 fluorescent filter BLUE TN A1 incandescent filter YELLOW TN A2 incandescent filter AMBER Warning indicator When the filter is not properly attached the warning indicator shown left appears...

Page 97: ... When a color compensation filter is attached to the SB 910 while the camera s white balance is set to auto or flash filter information is automatically transmitted to the camera and the camera s optimum white balance is automatically adjusted to give the correct color temperature When an SJ 3 color filter is attached to the SB 910 set the camera s white balance to auto flash or direct sunlight Wh...

Page 98: ...mended TN A2 Direct sunlight fine tune 3 0 3 EV 4 Color filters RED BLUE YELLOW AMBER Auto flash direct sunlight Auto flash direct sunlight 0 7 EV 4 with AMBER Auto flash direct sunlight 0 7 EV 4 with AMBER 1 D3 camera with firmware A and firmware B version 2 00 or later 2 D300 camera with firmware A and firmware B version 1 10 or later 3 To match the compensation effects of the SZ 2TN and the TN ...

Page 99: ...al to set desired flash compensation value The compensation value can be set in 1 3 EV steps from 3 0 EV to 3 0 EV Press the OK button v Canceling flash compensation To cancel rotate the selector dial to return the compensation value to 0 Flash compensation cannot be canceled by simply turning the SB 910 off t For digital SLR cameras with a built in flash featuring the flash compensation function ...

Page 100: ...d position manually In order to change the zoom head position to one that does not match the focal length the zoom head position must be adjusted manually An above the indicator appears on the LCD panel when the zoom head position is set manually Press function button 1 to highlight the zoom head position and then rotate the selector dial to set the zoom head position Rotate the selector dial cloc...

Page 101: ...i point AF system AF assist illumination cannot be used with non CLS compatible cameras and COOLPIX cameras Notes on using the AF assist illumination AF assist illumination can be used if an AF lens is mounted and the camera s focus mode is set to S single servo AF with focus priority AF A or AF The effective flash to subject distance with AF assist illumination is approx 1 m to 10 m 3 3 ft to 33 ...

Page 102: ...en autofocus is not possible while using the AF assist illumination If the focus indicator does not appear in the camera s viewfinder even though AF assist illuminator lights up focus manually t Using the SB 910 off camera When using the SB 910 off camera with the TTL Remote Cord SC 29 autofocus in low light is possible because the SC 29 features an AF assist illumination function 0H 10 t For came...

Page 103: ...ful for checking the illumination and shadows cast on a subject before actually taking the picture Test firing and modeling illumination can be selected in the custom settings 0B 17 The flash fires as a modeling illuminator for up to approx 1 5 seconds When the depth of field preview button on a camera compatible with modeling illumination is pressed modeling illuminator fires even when the SB 910...

Page 104: ...ng illuminations Standby function If the SB 910 and camera are not used for a specified time the standby function is automatically activated to conserve battery power The standby function is activated when the camera s exposure meter is turned off default setting The standby activation lead time can be adjusted with the custom settings 0B 18 To cancel standby Press the camera s shutter release but...

Page 105: ...panel and body rises as a result of the flash being fired numerous times in quick succession and all operations except power ON OFF and custom settings are suspended before the heat can damage the flash panel and body LCD at normal temperature Thermal cut out indicator High temperature Wait until the SB 910 cools down Operation can be resumed once the warning is no longer displayed On rare occasio...

Page 106: ... Auto FP high speed sync mode is automatically set when the shutter speed exceeds the camera s highest flash sync speed This is useful even in daylight when a wider aperture is required to achieve shallow depth of field to blur the background Auto FP high speed sync also operates in Advanced Wireless Lighting Available flash modes are i TTL auto aperture flash with monitor pre flashes non TTL auto...

Page 107: ...tor pre flashes FV stands for flash value meaning flash illuminated subject exposure Slow sync The flash is controlled at a low shutter speed to obtain the correct exposure for both the main subject and background in low light situations Since low shutter speeds are normally used use of a tripod is recommended to prevent camera shake Red eye reduction red eye reduction slow sync To prevent a subje...

Page 108: ...ar curtain sync flash creates a picture in which the blur of a moving subject appears behind the subject and not in front In front curtain sync the flash fires immediately after the front curtain is fully open in rear curtain sync the flash fires moments before the rear curtain starts to close Since low shutter speeds are normally used use of a tripod is recommended to prevent camera shake Rear cu...

Page 109: ...iority manual flash Manual flash Repeating flash Non TTL auto flash Distance priority manual flash Manual flash Repeating flash ISO sensitivity Automatically set Set in the custom settings Operable wireless multiple flash unit photography Advanced Wireless Lighting SU 4 type SU 4 type Flash photography using color filters Possible filter information transferred to the camera compatible with filter...

Page 110: ...compatible COOLPIX cameras i TTL compatible COOLPIX cameras Operable flash mode Standard i TTL Auto aperture flash Non TTL auto flash Distance priority manual flash Manual flash Repeating flash Operable wireless mode for multiple flash units 1 Advanced Wireless Lighting SU 4 type SU 4 type FV lock Not possible Auto FP high speed sync Not possible AF assist illumination Not possible Firmware update...

Page 111: ...flash unit or commander and flash units such as the SB 910 SB 900 SB 800 SB 700 and SB 600 are set to remote mode For more information of camera settings see the camera user s manual t Adjusting the zoom head position when used with CLS compatible COOLPIX cameras The power zoom function automatically adjusts the zoom head position to match the lens focal length In this case appears on the LCD pane...

Page 112: ...ry power is weak Replace the batteries B 7 The SB 910 does not fire The flash function is canceled in the custom settings Activate the flash function in the custom settings B 18 The effective flash output distance range does not appear The flash head is not set to the forward facing position Set the flash head to the forward facing position B 9 Aperture and ISO sensitivity information has not been...

Page 113: ...re properly installed Replace the batteries while the SB 910 is on If the problem continues contact your retailer or Nikon representative B 6 Nonstandard display Dials or buttons do not operate Key lock is activated Cancel key lock B 4 The SB 910 does not operate Thermal cut out is active Wait until the SB 910 cools down E 23 Warning indicators Warning indicator Cause Solution 0 Low battery power ...

Page 114: ...he remote flash unit beeps for approx 3 seconds Underexposure may have occurred Use a wider aperture move the flash unit closer to the subject or change the position of the flash unit and reshoot D 20 Filter detection failure indicator appears The attached color filter has not been detected Confirm whether the color filter is correctly attached E 14 There is no flash output that corresponds with t...

Page 115: ...ity is 100 and aperture f number is 8 the illumination of the SB 910 reaches 4 25 m 13 9 ft which is determined by the equation flash to subject distance 4 25 m or 13 9 ft guide number 34 m or 111 5 ft aperture f number 8 For ISO sensitivities other than 100 multiply the guide number by the factors ISO sensitivity factors shown in the table below ISO 25 50 100 200 400 800 1600 3200 6400 Factor 0 5...

Page 116: ...ctricity This is not a malfunction The display will soon return to normal Do not drop the SB 910 or hit it against a hard surface as this may damage its precision mechanisms Do not apply strong pressure to the LCD panel Storage Store the SB 910 in a cool dry place to prevent malfunctions due to high humidity as well as the growth of mold or mildew Keep the SB 910 away from chemicals such as campho...

Page 117: ...jecting the SB 910 to sudden and extreme temperature changes place it inside an airtight container such as plastic bag Leave it inside the container for a while before exposing it gradually to the outside temperature Avoid exposing the SB 910 to strong magnetism or radio waves from TVs or high voltage power transmission towers as this may cause it to malfunction ...

Page 118: ...dly Battery power will recover when the temperature returns to normal Battery power tends to weaken as the temperature drops It also gradually decreases when batteries are not used for a long time and recovers after a short break following intensive use Be sure to check battery power and replace the batteries with fresh ones if you notice any delays in the recycling time Do not store batteries in ...

Page 119: ... C 68 F LCD panel illuminator ON OFF Any button or switch will activate the SB 910 illuminator when the SB 910 power is on to make the LCD panel easier to read The illuminator goes off if the SB 910 is not operated for 16 seconds The LCD panel illumination can be canceled in the custom settings 0B 19 Even when the LCD panel illumination is canceled in the custom settings the SB 910 s LCD panel ill...

Page 120: ...able from the Nikon representative in your area See the URL below for contact information http imaging nikon com SB 910 firmware can be updated through a D3 camera with firmware A and firmware B version 2 00 or later SB 910 firmware can be updated through a D300 camera with firmware A and firmware B version 1 10 or later See the custom settings section to determine which version of firmware you ar...

Page 121: ...accessory shoe contact when the SB 910 is mounted on a Nikon digital SLR camera WG AS1 for D3 series WG AS2 for D300 series WG AS3 for D700 Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU 4 Useful for wireless multiple flash unit photography the SU 4 features a built in movable light sensor and an accessory shoe for attachment of a remote flash unit The SU 4 s light sensor triggers the remote flash unit to fir...

Page 122: ...is used Use of other external power source brands may cause accidents or could damage the Speedlight components Nikon cannot guarantee the Speedlight performance when used with non Nikon products Connecting to an external power source To use an external power source remove the external power source terminal cover and connect the power cord to the terminal Do not use Power Cord SC 16 when connectin...

Page 123: ... HR14 C size rechargeable Ni MH 6 4 1 5 sec 280 1 5 30 sec 1 2 V HR14 C size rechargeable Ni MH 6 5 1 5 sec 260 1 5 30 sec Nikon High performance Battery Pack SD 8A 2 1 5 V LR6 AA size alkaline 6 2 0 sec 300 2 0 30 sec 1 5 V FR6 AA size lithium 6 2 2 sec 550 2 2 120 sec 1 2 V HR6 AA size rechargeable Ni MH 2600 mAh 6 1 5 sec 260 1 5 30 sec 1 2 V HR6 AA size rechargeable Ni MH eneloop 6 1 5 sec 250...

Page 124: ...the camera s image area in both FX and DX formats Available flash mode i TTL Auto aperture flash Non TTL auto flash Distance priority manual flash Manual flash Repeating flash Other available functions Test firing monitor pre flashes AF assist illumination for multi point AF and modeling illumination Nikon Creative Lighting System A number of flash operations are available with compatible cameras ...

Page 125: ...y type see H 21 Flash ready indicator The SB 910 is fully recycled lights up Insufficient flash output for correct exposure in i TTL auto aperture flash non TTL auto flash or distance priority manual flash mode blinks Flash ready indicator in remote mode The SB 910 is fully recycled blinks Insufficient flash output for correct exposure in i TTL auto aperture flash or non TTL auto flash mode or AUT...

Page 126: ...on Dome SW 13H Fluorescent Filter SZ 2FL Incandescent Filter SZ 2TN Soft Case SS 910 These performance specifications are applicable when fresh batteries are used at normal temperatures 20 C 68 F Specifications and design are subject to change without any notice Products and brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies Effective flash output distance range for ...

Page 127: ... 4 20 1 5 20 1 6 20 1 6 20 1 6 20 1 7 20 1 7 20 32 22 16 11 8 5 6 4 2 8 0 6 4 5 0 6 5 6 0 6 6 0 6 7 7 0 6 8 1 0 6 8 4 0 6 9 5 0 7 10 6 0 8 12 0 9 14 1 1 15 5 1 1 16 2 1 1 17 3 1 2 17 8 1 2 18 1 2 18 3 1 2 18 7 32 22 16 11 8 5 6 4 0 6 3 2 0 6 4 0 6 4 2 0 6 5 5 0 6 5 7 0 6 6 0 6 6 7 0 6 7 5 0 6 8 5 0 7 10 0 7 11 0 8 11 5 0 8 12 2 0 8 12 6 0 8 12 7 0 9 13 0 9 13 2 32 22 16 11 8 5 6 0 6 2 2 0 6 2 8 0 ...

Page 128: ...kon Diffusion Dome attached WP With the built in wide panel in place 1 Center weighted illumination pattern 2 Standard illumination pattern 3 Even illumination pattern 4 Standard or center weighted illumination pattern 5 Standard or even illumination pattern Angle of coverage in DX format Zoom head position set Angle of coverage Vertical Horizontal 8 BA WP 1 120 130 10 BA WP 2 110 120 11 BA WP 3 1...

Page 129: ...ed illumination 8 BA WP 13 8 BA 16 8 WP 17 10 BA WP 13 10 BA 16 10 WP 17 11 BA WP 13 11 BA 16 11 WP 17 12 BA WP 13 12 BA 16 12 WP 17 12 23 26 14 BA WP 13 14 BA 16 14 WP 17 14 25 29 16 27 22 32 17 BA WP 13 17 BA 16 17 WP 17 17 22 25 29 23 33 18 23 26 30 24 34 20 24 27 31 25 36 24 27 22 32 34 32 39 28 30 24 36 36 33 42 5 35 34 31 39 40 37 46 50 40 36 45 45 43 49 5 70 44 41 49 49 47 52 85 46 44 51 5 ...

Page 130: ...ormat Standard illumination pattern at ISO 100 m ft Flash output level Zoom head position mm 10 12 14 16 17 18 20 24 28 35 50 70 85 105 120 135 180 200 WP BA BA WP 1 1 13 42 7 16 52 5 17 55 8 23 75 5 25 82 27 88 6 29 95 1 30 98 4 31 101 7 34 111 5 36 118 1 40 131 2 45 147 6 49 160 8 50 5 165 7 51 5 169 52 170 6 53 173 9 53 5 175 5 54 177 2 1 2 9 1 29 9 11 3 37 1 12 39 4 16 2 53 1 17 6 57 7 19 62 3...

Page 131: ... 7 15 4 5 8 19 6 2 20 3 8 5 27 9 9 2 30 2 10 32 8 10 7 35 1 11 1 36 4 11 4 37 4 12 6 41 3 13 3 43 6 14 8 48 6 16 6 54 5 18 1 59 4 18 7 61 4 19 62 3 19 2 63 19 6 64 3 19 8 65 20 65 6 1 2 3 3 10 8 4 1 13 5 4 3 14 1 6 19 7 6 5 21 3 7 23 7 5 24 6 7 8 25 6 8 26 2 8 9 29 2 9 4 30 8 10 4 34 1 11 7 38 4 12 7 41 7 13 2 43 3 13 4 44 13 5 44 3 13 8 45 3 14 45 9 14 1 46 3 1 4 2 3 7 5 2 9 9 5 3 1 10 2 4 2 13 8...

Page 132: ... FR6 AA size lithium 1 5 V 4 5 sec 230 4 5 120 sec HR6 AA size rechargeable Ni MH 2600 mAh 2 3 sec 190 2 3 30 sec HR6 AA size rechargeable Ni MH eneloop 2 3 sec 165 2 3 30 sec When firing the Speedlight at full output once every 30 seconds 120 seconds with lithium batteries While AF assist illumination power zoom and LCD panel illumination are off With fresh batteries Performance may vary dependin...

Page 133: ... 4 CLS compatible COOLPIX cameras G 1 Color compensation filter E 12 Color filter E 12 Color Filter Holder SZ 2 E 13 H 10 Color Filter Set SJ 3 H 10 Continuous flash firing B 6 COOLPIX G 1 CPU lens A 5 Custom settings B 13 D Default settings A 6 Distance priority manual flash mode C 12 DX format A 6 B 18 E Effective flash output distance A 6 Effective flash output distance range A 6 Effective flas...

Page 134: ...vity C 3 E 21 ISO sensitivity factors H 4 i TTL balanced fill flash C 1 i TTL mode C 1 i TTL compatible COOLPIX cameras G 1 K Key lock B 4 L LCD panel H 8 LCD panel illuminator H 8 Light sensor for non TTL auto flash C 5 C 8 Light sensor window for wireless remote flash D 17 Lock release B 3 Low battery power indicator B 8 M M manual mode D 14 Manual flash mode C 15 MASTER D 6 Master flash unit A ...

Page 135: ...ode C 18 D 10 Replacing batteries B 7 S Selector dial B 3 Slow sync E 25 Sound monitor D 20 Speedlight Stand AS 21 D 19 Standard illumination pattern E 2 Standard i TTL C 1 Standby function E 22 Standby function setting B 18 SU 4 type wireless multiple flash unit photography D 3 D 12 T Test firing E 21 Thermal cut out E 23 TTL remote cord H 10 Two button reset B 12 W Warning indicator H 2 Water gu...

Page 136: ...pan TT1L04 11 8MSA4411 04 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 En ...

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