SB-50DX - Flash externe NIKON - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL SB-50DX NIKON

“ss SB-50DX DR Speedlight

Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Speedlight SB-50DX. Get to know your SB-50DX, and be sure to read this manual thoroughly before using it.

Main features of the SB-50DX:

+ The SB-50DX is a high-performance Speedlight having a guide number of 22/72 (at 35mm zoom-head position, ISO 100, m/ft., 20°C/68°F). According to the camera/lens used with the SB-50DX, you can perform various types of TTL auto flash (p. 25) and Manual flash (p. 31). When used with Nikon digital SLR cameras, D-TTL auto flash can be performed.

+ Automatic power zoom continuously changes the zoom-head position from 24mm to 50mm according to the lens' focal length (incompatible with some lenses, see p. 16). The built-in wide-flash adapter increases the angle of coverage to match a 14mm lens (p.17).

- Flash head tilts up to 90° or down to -18°, enabling bounce-flash photography (p. 40) or close-up photography (p. 43).

+ When used with a camera having a built-in Speedlight, both the SB-50DX and the cameras built-in Speedlight fire simultaneously (p. 42, 54) for double-flash photography. A diffuser (p. 42) is provided to diffuse light for bounce-flash photography with the double flash.

+ Wireless multiple flash photography (p. 48) is also possible.

- The supplied Infrared Filter SW-9IR enables you to use the SB-50DX as an infrared remote commander (p. 53).

+ For operation in dim light, an illuminator for the LCD panel is provided (p. 8) and light condensing paint is applied to characters and symbols on the backside (p. 7).

* The Nikon N90s, N90, N70, N8008/N8008s, PRONEA 6i, N6006, N6000, N60, N50 N5005 and N4004/N40045 are sold exclusively in the U.S.A.

* The Nikon N80-series and N65-series are sold exclusively in the U.S.A., Central and South America.

* The Nikon N2020 and N2000 are sold exclusively in the U.S.A. and Canada.

ips onUsing the Speedlight

Take trial shots before shooting at important occasions like weddings or graduations.

M Have Nikon spot-check your Speedlight regulariy

Nikon recommends that you have your Speedlight serviced by an authorized dealer or service center at least once every two years.

M Using your Speedlight correctly

The Nikon Speedlight SB-50DX's performance has been optimized for use with Nikon brand cameras/accessories (including lenses). Cameras/accessories made by other manufacturers may not meet Nikon's criteria for specifications, and nonconforming cameras/ accessories could damage the SB-50DX's components. Nikon cannot guarantee the SB-50DX's performance when it is used with non-Nikon brand products.

M Supplied accessories

Infrared Filter SW-9IR Soft Case SS-50 (p.53)

02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 4 À D Æ 1 Jéontents PREPARATION... 9 TECHNICAL OPERATION. Foreword…. 2 Bounce-Flash Photography … Tips on Using the Speedligh 3 Bounce-flash operation with single flash. 4 Nomenclature 7 Bounce-flash operation with double flash (SB-50DX and camera's LCD Panel. 8 built-in Speedlight).… Lenses …. 9 Close-Up Flash Photography. Multiple Flash Photography Wireless Multiple Flash Operation [ Example Photos (Bounce-flash photography) Multiple Flash Operation Using the Infrared Remote Commander Double-Flash Operation . BASIC OPERATION... Multiple Flash Operation Using Cord 1.Install Batteries and Check Battery Power. 12-13 Accessories for Multiple Flash Operation 2.Attaching the SB-50DX to the Camera 3.Adjusting the Zoom-Head Position … 16-17 4. Setting Camera and SB-50DX Mode: EFFECTIVE SPEEDLIGHT PLACEMENT …. 5.Shooting with Flash … Bounce-flash operation to produce more natural-looking pictures ….58 Eliminating shadows cast by the subject . -59 Emphasizing the outline of the subject . Example Photos (Close-up photography). Illuminating a subject mainly from the side . Illuminating a distant subject… DETAILED OPERATION … Shooting in Exposure Mode Other Than Programmed Auto/ MISGERPONERREN Auto-Multi Program... … Speedlight Care. Flash Modes and Types of TTL/D-TTL Auto Flash 25-27 Notes on Batteries. Cameras Compatible with TTL/D-TTL Auto Flash Troubleshooting. Manual Flash . 1 TTL auto flash shooting distance range (ft.) .69 Reading Variable Aperture of Zoom Lenses. 2 Specifications. 0-71 Guide Number Index... Exposure Compensation in Flash Photography Flash Output Level Compensation … Autofocus Flash Photography in Dim Light Example Photos (Flash output level compensation). 4 5

D Miscellaneous Ÿ Speedlight Placement Ÿ Technical Operation Detailed Operation

02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 6

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M Fe Backside indications —&—

@ Flash head P.15 Can be tilted up to 90° or down to 18.

@ Wide-flash adapter P.17 Attach the wide-flash adapter in front of the flash head to increase the angle of coverage to match a 14mm lens or to perform close-up flash photography.

@AF-Assist Illuminator P. 36 Automatically turns on for autofocus operation when the light is dim.

@ Diffuser P. 42 Use to diffuse light from the camera's buitt-in Speediight when performing double-flash photography (bounce- flash photography).

@ Operation button combination chart

+ Underexposure value P.21 + AF-Assist Illuminator cancel P.37 + Sound monitor off P. 50

Operation button combination chart is under diffuser.

@ Built-in Speedlight detecting lever

P. 42, 51, 54 Automatically detects the camera's built-in Speedlight if it is used with the SB-50DX.

Light sensor P.48 Senses light from the master flash unit in wireless multiple flash operation.

@ Tilting angle scale P.15

€ Ready-light P. 12, 21 Lights up when the SB-50DX is fully charged and ready to fire. Blinks after the SB-50DX fires at its maximum output in TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode, telling you that light may be insufficient.

@ FLASH button P.12 Press to test fire the flash.

@ Illuminator/SLAVE button P. 8, 48 Press to tu on the LCD panel illuminator. Or hold it down for approx. one second to set wireless flash mode only for wireless multiple flash).

€ ON/OFF button P.12

@- button P. 35 Press to decrease values when setting flash output level compensation.

@ MODE button P.18 Press to set the flash mode or type of TTL auto flash.

@ Lock lever P.15 & Battery chamber lid P.12 &) Mounting foot

& Lock plate P.15 & Infrared Filter SW-9IR P.53

Attach in front of the flash head to use the SB-50DX as an infrared remote commander

Light condensing paint is applied to the backside indications for clearer

identification of the characters and symbols in dark conditions.

+ All indications are displayed in the illustration for easy reference.

Types of CPU Nikkor lenses and non-CPU Nikkor lenses

G-type AF Nikkor D-type AF Nikkor Non-G/D-type AF Nikkor lenses {except for AF Nikkor for F3AF) AI-P Nikkor

Non-CPU Nikkor lenses

AIS Nikkor AI Nikkor

Series E H CPU lenses + CPU lens has CPU contacts.

4 Zoom-head position

+ Because of the directional characteristics of the liquid crystal, the LCD is difficult to read when viewed diagonall from above; however, the display can be seen clearlÿ from a somewhat lower angle.

+ The LCD panel display tends to be darker at high temperatures (approx. 60°C/140°F). When the temperature returns to normal (20°C/68°F), the display also returns to normal.

+ The LCD's response time tends to slow down at low temperatures (approx. 5°C/41°F and below). When the temperature returns to normal (20°C/68°F), response time also returns to normal.

ÆUsing the SB-50DX in dim light + Press the SLAVE/#* button to turn the illuminator on (when the SB-50DX power is on). Press the button again to turn the illuminator off. It turns off automatically after approx. 16 sec. when the SB-50DX is not in use.

EG-type AF Nikkor lenses + The G-type Nikkor lens does not include an

aperture ring. The lens sends the distance information to the camera body. With some camera bodies, the usable exposure mode is limited (see the lens’ instruction manual).

HD-type AF Nikkor lenses + The lens sends the distance information to

the camera body. (See the lens’ instruction manual).

Bounce flash (p. 40)

BASIC OPERATION Bounce flash with double flash using SB-50DX and camera's built-

in Speediight In this chapter, even first-time users of the SB-50DX can easily perform flash photography by following the instructions on the left-hand pages. More detailed information is given on the right-hand pages.

Bounce flash with single Speedlight

Regular flash (with single built- in Speedlight)

power sources cannot be

Open the battery chamber lid and … insert batteries with the " id "—"

battery chamber. Then close the

battery chamber lid by slidit

place while pressing it down.

+ Always use fresh batteries of the same brand.

Press the ON/OFF button to turn on

he SB-50DX. Confirm that the ready-

+ Ifthe ready-light does not light up within 30 sec., change batteries.

ends positioned as marked inside the

We recommend that you take spare batteries with you, especially when

MH Confirming recycling time and replacing batteries

You can perform test firing to ensure that the SB-50DX is working properiy. Turn the SB-50DX on, confirm that the ready-light comes on, then press the FLASH button to fire the SB-50DX. For test firing, the SB-50DX fires at 1/16 output in TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode (p. 25) or at maximum output in Manual flash mode (p. 31). When performing test firing, never place your eyes near the flash head.

MON/OFF button and standby function

+ Pressing the ON/OFF button turns on the SB-50DX and indications appear in the LCD panel. Pressing the button again turns off the SB-50DX and indications disappear.

+ Ifthe SB-50DX is left unused for approx. 40 seconds, the standby function activates and automatically turns it off. In Wireless Flash mode (p. 48), standby function activates in approx. 40 seconds as normal mode when the Speedlight is attached to camera body; however, standby duration is prolonged to approx. one hour when the Speedlight is detached from camera body (used as a slave flash unit, p. 48).

+ With a camera body that is compatible with TTL/D-TTL auto flash (p. 28), the SB-50DX automatically turns off when the camera's exposure meter turns off.

+ To reactivate the SB-50DX after it has been automatically turned off by the standby function, press ON/OFF button or FLASH button. (Pressing the FLASH button does not activate flash in this case). With a camera body that is compatible with TTL/D-TTL auto flash, the SB-50DX automatically turns on when the camera's exposure meter turns on.

+ Standby function cannot be deactivated.

+ After firing at its maximum output in Manual flash mode (p. 31), the SB-50DX will take approx. 3.5 sec. to be ready for the next shot (with fresh batteries).

+ Replace batteries with new ones if the ready-light takes more than 30 sec. to light up after firing. If the ready-light does not light up within 40 sec. after firing, the SB-S0DX turns off.

+ Approximately 260 flashes are available with a fresh set of batteries (in Manual flash mode).

02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 14

e SB-50DX to the camera body.

Turn off the SB-50DX and camera « body.

2 Attach the SB-50DX to the camera « body, then turn the lock lever in the direction as illustrated to lock the unit. + When detaching the SB-50DX, turn the lock lever in the opposite direction to unlock the unit.

Adjust the flash head to the horizontal = position. + Set the tilting angle scale of the flash head to “0”.

Turn on the SB-50DX and camera body.

Lock lever + With the SB-50DX attached to the camera bodÿy, tuning the lever in the direction as ilustrated presses the lock plate on the camera body's accessory shoe. This prevents the SB-50DX from accidentally slipping off the camera.

+ For normal flash shooting, keep the flash head in the horizontal position. Tilt up the flash head for bounce-flash operation (p. 40) or tilt it down for close-up flash shooting (p. 43). (Click stops are provided at 90°, 75°, 50°, horizontal and -18° positions).

+ When the flash head is tilted up, à is displayed in the LCD panel. When the flash head is tilted down, 2 is displayed. (When the flash head is tilted down and the wide-flash adapter is not attached, *. [wide-flash adapter recommend] blinks. p. 44.)

+ For details, see "Tilting the flash head" on p. 40.

ÆWhen ready-light warning is blinking inside the camera's viewfinder:

+ The SB-50DX is not properly attached to

the camera body (except for FE 10).

+ The ISO film speed (sensitivity) set on the camera is outside the range for the TTL auto flash (with camera in Group V or VI except for F3-series with AS-17 and FM3a, p. 29).

Usable film speed (sensitivity) range

The usable film speed (sensitivity) range for TTL/D-TTL auto flash is ISO 25 to ISO 1600. However, this range also depends on the type of camera body. (For

details, see your camera's instruction manual).

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 16 0

35mm and 50mm. When the camera/lens combination is incompatible with

wide-flash adapter is used, the the Power Zoom function, press the ZOOM

zoom-head position is fixed to button to set zoom-head position manuallÿ.

+ The zoom-head position changes in four positions—24mm, 28mm, 35mm and 50mm

every time you press the ZOOM button. (Fixed When a camera body that is compatible with at 14mm with the wide-flash adapter.) Digital Data Communication is attached to If the camera/lens combination is compatible with the SB-50DX and a CPU lens is used, the the Power Zoom function, pressing the ZOOM Power Zoom function activates and the button at the 50mm position activates the Power zoom head is automatically adjusted. Zoom function. Pressing the ZOOM button again + When the lens focal length is not 24mm, 28mm, sets the zoom-head position to 24mm. 35mm or 50mm, the zoom head adjusts to the + When the zoom-head position is set manually, closest wideangle setting of the lens in use. (See "M" appears above the "ZOOM' indication in table below). the LCD panel. + When M is not displayed in the LCD panel, the + Generally, set the zoom-head position to the focal length of the lens in use or Power Zoom function is activated. If M is to the closest wideangle setting of the lens in use (see the table on p. 16). displayed, press the ZOOM button a number of HWide-flash adapter

times so M disappears from the LCD panel.

+ With 14mm to 23mm lens, use the built-in wide-flash adapter. + Slide out the wide-flash adapter from the + When the wide-flash adapter is attached or when the flash head is tilted bottom of the flash head, then attach it in front of the flash head. The Power Zoom function becomes inactive, zoom-head position is

up/down, the Power Zoom function becomes inactive.

Focal length or zooming Automatic adjusted automatically set at 14mm, and "ZOOM14mm" position of CPU lens z00m-head position is indicated in the LCD panel. 24mm-27mm ZOOM 24mm « To store the wide-flash adapter, detach it from SEM SAM ZOOM 28mm the flash head, then slide it back all the way Sn On ZOOM ss into its original position. + When using a 14mm lens, the distance S0mm or longer ZOOM 50mm between the camera and subject becomes increasingly pronounced from the

center of the frame to the periphery, so the peripheral area might not be sufficientiy lit in some cases.

Digital Data Communication

When the SB-50DX is used with cameras in Groups | and Il (p. 28) or Nikon digital SLR cameras, Digital Data Communication is performed. With a CPU lens, the camera automatically sends lens information (focal length, etc.) to the SB-50DX.

flash where flash output level is

automatically controlled

according to shooting ituations.

1 Set the camera's exposure mode to = Programmed Auto/Auto-Multi Program and the metering system to Matrix Metering. + If Programmed Auto/Auto-Multi Program cannot be set, select another exposure mode (p. 24). If Matrix Metering cannot be

Automatic flash synchronization with TTL/D-TTL auto flash

In TTL/D-TTL auto flash, after the cameras shutter is released and the flash fires, the camera measures the amount of light reflected from the subject through the lens to automatically control flash output level and give correct exposure. According to the camera, lens, exposure mode and/or metering system combination in use, the SB-50DX offers various types of TTL/D-TTL auto flash. Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash (p. 26) and Matrix Balanced Fill Flash (p. 26) control flash output level to give a correct exposure for both the background and foreground subjects, resulting in well-balanced photos. When the SB-50DX is used with a Nikon digital SLR camera, D-TTL auto flash (p. 27) will be activated. With some cameras, TTL/D-TTL auto flash cannot be used. {Perform Manual flash, p. 31, in this case).

set, select Center-Weighted Metering.

+ Shutter speed is automatically set to flash sync speed. (For details, see your camera's instruction manual). In Shutter-Priority Auto or Manual exposure mode, you can select

a slower shutter speed than the automatically controlled shutter speed.

Set the flash mode to the desired type « of TTL/D-TTL auto flash (p. 25).

+ Every time you press the MODE button, the flash mode or type of TTL auto flash changes in the following order: Hits Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash or HDE* Matrix Balanced/Center-Weighted/Spot Fill-Flash, Standard TTL Flash and Manual Flash. And each indication is displayed in the LCD panel. When TTL auto flash is set, IKKS}, HNZX or is displayed in the LCD panel.

+ When using Nikon digital SLR cameras, D-TTL auto flash (p. 27) is activated and "D" appears in the LCD panel.

+ Usable types of TTL/D-TTL auto flash and flash modes vary depending on the lens, camera, exposure mode and/or metering system combination being used. (For details, see table on p. 28, and your camera's instruction manual).

mode, confirm the ready-ligl comes on, then take a shot with the flash. (For details, see your camera's instruction manual).

Set the cameras flash sync mode.

“+ Set the cameras flash sync mode to Front- Curtain Sync for normal flash shooting. + I your camera is not provided with flash sync mode option, normal sync mode (Front- Curtain Sync) is automatically selected.

2 Compose picture, focus and confirm « the ready-light comes on, then shoot with the flash.

+ When the SB-50DX is fully charged and ready to fire, cameras ready-light lights up in the viewfinder as the ready-light on the SB-50DX turns on.

Selecting the camera’s flash sync mode

in addition to Front-Curtain Sync (normal sync), Slow Sync, Rear-Curtain Sync, Red-Eye Reduction, etc. can be selected. Available flash sync mode depends on the camera in use. (For details, see your camera's instruction manual).

+1In TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode, the ready-light on the SB-50DX and/or the camera's viewfinder ready-light 4 blink for approx. 8 sec. after shooting when the flash has fired at its maximum output and underexposure may have occurred. To compensate, use a wider aperture (smaller -number) in Aperture-Priority Auto or Manual exposure mode or move closer to the subject and shoot again.

+ Ifthe underexposure has occurred with cameras of Group 1 or Nikon Digital cameras (p. 28, 29), À blinks and the amount of underexposure (0 to -3.0 EV) appears for 3 sec. in the LCD panel, at the same time the ready-lights blink (as mentioned above).

+ Amount of underexposure appears for approx. 3 sec., then disappears. Pressing the ZOOM button and the - button at the same time makes the amount of underexposure appear again.

TTL auto flash shooting distance range in meter (for feet indication, see page 69) à Usable film speeds (sensitivity), usable apertures and flash shooting distance ranges in the TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode are as follows:

{14mm zoom-head position: with the wide-flash adapter)

For example, if you select f/8 with an ISO 400 film at 35mm zoom-head

position, flash shooting distance range would be 0.6m to 5.5m.

Zoom-head position B5mm|

Close-up photography (p. 43)

DRE ê DETAILED OPERATION This chapter features a detailed description of the SB-50DX functions.

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 24 0 *oingin pose Mode Other Than Programmed Auto/Auto-Mult Program flash Modes and Types of TTL/D-TTL Auto Flash

Usable exposure modes and operations vary depending on the camera The Nikon SB-50DX provides three flash modes: TTL auto flash for silver being used. (See your cameras instruction manual.) See step 4 on page chloride film cameras, D-TTL auto flash for Nikon Digital SLR cameras 18 for shooting in Programmed Auto/Auto-Multi Program exposure mode. and Manual flash.

Æin Shutter-Priority Auto exposure (S) mode r—| TTL auto flash (film camera)

By selecting a slower shutter speed, background exposure can also be taken

+ Camera selects the correct aperture. Note that the automatically controlled aperture should provide appropriate shooting distance range (p. 21) for your subject.

+ If you set a shutter speed faster than the flash sync speed, the camera automatically shifts to its fastest flash sync speed when the SB-50DX is turned on.

Min Aperture-Priority Auto exposure (A) mode

By selecting aperture, you can control depth of field and flash shooting distance

+ Camera selects the correct shutter speed. The range of automatically controlled shutter speeds varies depending on the camera being used. For details, see your camera's instruction manual.

+ Aperture-Priority Auto exposure mode can be used for Manual flash mode {p. 31) where the appropriate aperture should be determined by the guide Flas number (p. 33).

+ To determine the aperture, refer to the guide number (p. 88) and the TTL auto flash shooting distance range table (p. 21).

Min Manual exposure (M) mode

By selecting shutter speed and aperture, you can control background exposure,

depth of field and flash shooting distance range.

«If you set a shutter speed faster than the flash sync speed, the camera automatically shifts to its fastest flash sync speed when the SB-50DX is turned on (except for FM3a).

« Manual exposure mode can be used for Manual flash mode (p. 31) where appropriate aperture should be determined by the guide number (p. 33).

+ To determine the aperture, refer to the guide number (p. 33) and the TTL auto “1 Monitor Pre-flashes are fred (p. 27). flash shooting distance range table (p. 21). . *2 The 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash

* Select Manual exposure mode to perform double flash operation using the together comprise Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor (Automatic built-in Speedlight (p. 42, 54) of the F70-series/N70. Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor for Digital SLR in D-TTL auto flash).

+ Select Manual exposure mode to perform wireless multiple flash operation *8 TTL auto flash mode for Nikon Digital SLR is called D-TTL auto flash mode. using the built-in Speedlight (p. 48) of the F80-series/N80-series or F70-series/ NO.

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 26

(CTMESITMoGeS and Types of TL/D-TIL Auto Flashcnimet

Available types of TTL auto flash vary depending on the camera/lens/ exposure mode/metering system combination being used. (For details, see the table on p. 28-29 and your camera's instruction manual.)

MB 5D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash (with cameras of Group l'only) ikilte:

+ Information obtained by the Monitor Pre-flashes, exposure control information and Distance Information from a G- or D-type lens is integrated to automatically compensate the flash output level for well-balanced exposure on the main subject and the background.

+ You can take well-balanced pictures in very difficult situations, such as a scene that includes an object with extremely high reflectivity or a subject against an “infinite" background (empty sky, clouds, etc.).

ÆMulti-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash (with cameras of Group l only) ikilte:

+ Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, without the Distance Information of the 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, can be performed with a combination of the cameras of Group | and CPU Nikkor lenses other than G/D-type.

Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash CET LICE TL]

+ Exposure control information obtained by the camera's Matrix meter is used to automatically compensate the flash output level for well-balanced exposure on the main subject and the background.

ÆCenter-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash as/n

+ Exposure control information with Center-Weighted Metering or Spot Metering is used to properly compensate the flash output for a natural fill-flash effect.

«The exposure balance on the subject and the background may be rather rough when compared to results obtained with the Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash.

Standard TTL Flash ui

+ The main subject is correctly exposed.

+ Useful when you want to highlight the main subject.

Exposure balance on the main subject and the background

The level of exposure balance on the main subject and the background varies as the type of TTL auto flash changes. The most well-balanced TTL auto flash is 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, the balance control decreases from Multi- Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash, Center-Weighted/Spot Fill-Flash, down to Standard TTL Flash, in that order. (With D-TTL auto flash, it decreases from 8D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLR, Multi- Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLR, Center-Weighted Fill-Flash for Digital SLR, down to Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLR, in that order) Take the level of exposure balance on the main subject and the background into account when choosing the camera/lens/exposure mode/metering system combination.

When the SB-50DX is used in TTL auto flash mode with Nikon digital SLR cameras, D-TTL auto flash mode is automatically activated and Monitor Pre- flashes become available. Available types of D-TTL auto flash vary depending on the lens/metering system combination being used. (For details, see the table on p. 28-29 and your camera's instruction manual.)

B5D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLR Le]TT LEO

+ Information obtained by the Monitor Pre-flashes, exposure control information and Distance Information from the G- or D-type lens are integrated to automatically compensate the flash output level for well-balanced exposure on the subject and the background.

+ You can take well-balanced pictures in very difficult situations, such as a scene that includes an object with extremely high reflectivity or a subject against an "infinie" background (empty sky, clouds, etc.).

ÆMuiti-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLR Le]TT LEO

+ Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, without the Distance Information of the 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLR, can be performed with a CPU Nikkor lens other than G/D-type.

H Center-Weighted Fill-Flash for Digital SLR LITTLE]

+ Exposure control information with Center-Weighted Metering and information obtained by the Monitor Pre-flashes is used to properly compensate the flash output for a natural fil-flash effect (with non-CPU lens).

Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLR Di

+ Exposure control information and information obtained by the Monitor Pre- flashes is used for correct exposure on the main subject.

+ Useful when you want to highlight the main subject.

+ With Spot Metering, Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLR is automatically activated.

Monitor Pre-flashes are available in Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor (of the TTL auto flash) and all the flash modes in D-TTL auto flash to determine the condition of the subject.

Just after you depress the shutter release button and before the shutter is activated, the SB-50DX fires a series of imperceptible pre-flashes that are detected by the camera's TTL Multi Sensor, and analyzes it for brightness and contrast. (Monitor Pre-flashes are fired instantaneouslÿy and cannot be differentiated from the main flash.)

Monitor Pre-flashes are not fired when the flash head is tilted up, in Rear- Curtain Sync (p. 20) or Wireless Flash mode (p. 48) in Automatic Balanced Fill- Flash with TTL Multi Sensor.

“IMtmeres Compatible with TTL/D-TTL Auto Flash Mode

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 30

mers Compatie with TL/D-TTL Auto Flash Modems C-Manual Flash

Notes h In Manual flash mode, the SB-50DX always fires at its maximum output. 1:3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash is activated with G- and D-type lenses. Manual flash can be performed in any camera, lens and metering system 2: Center-Weighted/Spot Fill-Flash is activated. F ; :

TS ta LT Clan de onto oted T° combination. By selecting the aperture, you can control the exposure and

3: When Standard TTL Flash is selected. nr BY mes ° < 4: Standard TTL Flash is automatically set when the metering system is set to flash shooting distance. Flash shooting distance is determined by the

Spot. guide number and aperture.

5: Aperture-Priority Auto and Manual exposure mode cannot be selected with a G-type Nikkor lens.

6: Standard TTL Flash is automatically set with a non-CPU lens.

7: Center-Weighted Metering is automatically set when the exposure mode is set to Manual.

8: Standard TTL Flash is automatically set when the exposure mode is set to Manual.

9: Spot Metering is not available with the F-801/N8008 and F-601m/N6000.

10: Only HN appears in the SB-50DX's LCD panel but Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash is selected. (£3 appears in the camera’s LCD panel with the F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000.)

11: G-type lenses cannot be used with the F-601/N6006. G-type lenses can be used with the F-601M/N6000; however, Aperture-Priority Auto and Manual exposure modes cannot be used.

12: Cancel Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash on the camera body to perform Standard TTL Flash (Æ3 disappears in the camera's LCD panel).

13: Programmed TTL Flash is selected with exposure mode set to Programmed Auto or Shutter-Priority Auto.

14: G-type Nikkor lenses cannot be used.

15: Use optional V-type sync cord.

16: D-TTL auto flash mode is selected.

17: 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for Digital SLR is selected with G- and D- type Nikkor lenses.

18: When Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLR is activated. (Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLR is automatically selected when the metering system is set to Spot.)

Manual flash operation

2. Press the SB-50DX's MODE button until the "M" for Manual flash appears in the LCD panel. =

Set the camera's flash sync mode (See camera's instruction manual).

+ Set the flash sync mode to Front-Curtain Sync with normal flash shooting.

+ The flash sync mode is automatically set to Front-Curtain Sync with a camera without flash sync mode selection.

Determine aperture by referring to the guide number and (p. 33) flash

shooting distance and set the aperture.

+ In Manual flash mode, the SB-50DX always fires at its maximum output and the amount of flash output cannot be adjusted. Control exposure by changing aperture.

+ Some zoom lenses have variable aperture (lens’ brightness) with zooming (variable focal length). (see p. 32).

5. Compose, focus, confirm that the ready-light lights up, then shoot.

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 32

1 Reading Variable Aperture of Zoom Lenses

Some zoom lenses have variable aperture (lens’ brightness) with zooming (variable focal length). (For details, see the lens’ instruction manual.) For example, a lens such as the AF Zoom-Nikkor 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5D has two maximum aperture values. Follow the instructions below to determine aperture with such lens.

BReading aperture in the camera’s LCD panel and/or inside the

+ After zooming in/out for composing, set the aperture and confirm the aperture value in the camera's LCD panel and/or inside the viewfinder. The compensated aperture value is displayed. Aperture value displayed in the aperture-direct-readout scale through the camera's viewfinder (of the Nikon F5 or other cameras that are compatible with aperture-direct-readout scale), is fixed and not compensated as "Reading aperture with the scale on the lens" below.

BReading aperture with the scale on the lens

+ After zooming in/out for composing, read aperture with the aperture scale on the lens. For the shortest focal length setting, read the aperture value at the green index (or line index); for the longest focal length setting, read the value at the yellow index (or dot index). For intermediate focal length settings, read the aperture value between the two indexes.

+ Aperture ring and aperture scale are not provided with the G-type Nikkor lens and the aperture cannot be read with the scale on the lens.

BReading aperture of the CPU lens with the Nikon F-401x/N5005,

F-401s/N4004s, or F-401/N4004 camera

+ Set the camera's exposure mode to Aperture-Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M) and read the aperture value with the camera's dial. Although the aperture varies during zooming, the camera automatically compensates the lens value for correct exposure. Setting the aperture dial to a smaller value than the lens” smallest f-number (maximum aperture) or to a larger value than the lens’ largest f-number (minimum aperture) sets the lens aperture to the lens’ maximum or minimum aperture.

+ In Programmed Auto/Auto-Multi Program (P) or Shutter-Priority Auto (S) exposure mode, the aperture value set on the lens cannot be confirmed. In addition, the shutter cannot be released in Manual flash operation (p. 31).

The guide number indicates the power of the flash. It varies according to ISO film speed (sensitivity) and zoom-head position.

Equations including guide number + The table below shows the guide numbers for the SB-50DX with ISO 100 sensitivity: (14mm zoom-head position: with the wide-flash adapter, p. 17).

Zoom-head position | 14mm] 24mm] 28mm] 35mm] 50mm Guide number (m/t) | 12/39 | 18/59 | 20/66 | 22/72 | 26/85 + Use the following equation to determine the correct aperture: guide number Tash-to-subject distance Or, use the following equation to determine the flash-to-subject distance: flash-to-subject distance = -Juide number _ stop + For sensitivity other than ISO 100, multiply the guide number at ISO 100 by the factors shown in the table below:

ISO film speed 25 50 200 | 400 | 800 | 1600

Factor X0.5 | X0.71] X1.4 X2 X2.8 x4 + For close-up flash photography, see p. 43.

H Guide number in 1/300 TTL High-Speed Sync (with the F5 camera)

+ The table below shows the guide numbers for the SB-50DX with ISO 100 sensitivity: {14mm zoom-head position: with the wide-flash adapter.)

Zoom-head position | 14mm | 24mm | 28mm | 35mm | 50mm Guide number (m/ft.) | 9.5/31 | 10/33 | 11/35 | 12/38 | 14/44

H Combined guide number + Calculating the combined guide number of two or more Speedlight units may be necessary when performing double-flash operation (p. 54) or illuminating a distant subject (p. 62). The combined guide number is calculated using the ing equations. The guide number varies according to ISO film speed ity) and zoom-head position. For guide number information of the cameras built-in Speedlight or Accessory Speedlight other than the SB-50DX, see your camera's instruction manual or Speedlight's instruction manual. Combined guide number in double-flash operation (GN = guide number): Combined GN = #/{GN of the SB-50DX2 + (GN of the cameras buiït-in Speedligh}2 Combined guide number in multiple flash operation (GN = guide number): Combined GN = 4/{6N of Speedlight A) + (EN of Speediight Bj2 + (GN of Speedlight CJ2 + …

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C ‘JExposure Compensation in Flash Photography

Exposure compensation lets you intentionally modify the correct exposure. Exposure can be controlled when a subject of high reflectivity is included in a picture, or when you want to create flash photographs that are somewhat brighter or darker to match the subject or your creative preferences. Some plus compensation may be necessary when the background includes a mirror, white wall or other highly reflective surface. Likewise, some minus compensation may be required when the background is dark or includes subjects of low reflectivity.

You can compensate exposure on both the foreground subject and background, or compensate exposure on only the subject.

Ho compensate exposure on both subject and background in TTL/

D-TTL auto flash mode

ein TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode (p. 25), use the cameras exposure compensation function (see your camera's instruction manual).

«The exposure compensation value set on the camera is not displayed in the SB-50DX LCD panel.

« Exposure compensation beyond the usable ISO film speed (sensitivity) range for TTL/D-TTL auto flash (p. 21) cannot be performed. For example, making a +3 compensation with ISO 100 film (sensitivity) corresponds to ISO 12, which is out of the usable ISO speed (sensitivity) range (ISO 25 to 1600). With ISO 100 film (sensitivity), you can make plus compensation up to +2 (corresponding to ISO 25).

Ho compensate exposure on both subject and background in

ein Manual flash mode (p. 31), proper aperture (or standard aperture) for correct exposure can be determined by the equation using the guide number (p. 88). You can intentionally change the aperture to compensate exposure.

+ To make the subject brighter, use a wider aperture (smaller f-number); to make the subject darker, use a narrower aperture (larger f-number).

Ho compensate exposure on only the foreground subject

+ In TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode, adjust the SB-50DX flash output level (flash output level compensation, p. 35).

- Flash output level compensation is possible only when using cameras of Group I, Il, Ill or Nikon digital SLR cameras (p. 28).

Controlling background exposure in flash photography

By setting Slow Sync (p. 20) or by selecting a slower shutter speed than flash sync speed in Shutter-Priority Auto or Manual exposure mode, you can bring out background details using all of the available light. Available flash sync modes and exposure modes vary depending on the camera being used. (See your cameras instruction manual.)

JHtash Output Level Compensation

By adjusting flash output level, you can compensate exposure on a flash- iluminated subject while keeping the same background exposure. Flash output level compensation can be performed with cameras of Groups I, Il and Ill and Nikon digital SLR cameras.

(See photos on p. 38.)

+ Flash output level compensation can be performed with cameras of Groups I, Il and Ill and Nikon digital SLR cameras. With cameras of Group Ill, set flash output level compensation on the camera. (For details, see your camera's instruction manual.)

+ In TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode, press the + or button to adjust flash output level. The LCD panel shows the compensated value with symbol.

+ You can adjust the flash output level from -3 to +3 EV in 1/3 steps (or in 1/6 steps with Nikon digital SLR cameras).

+ With a camera having the flash output level compensation function (.e., F80-series/N80- series, F70-series/N70 or PRONEA 600i/ PRONEA Gi), you can set flash output level compensation either on the camera or on the SB-50DX. (Compensation range and step depend on the camera. See your camera's instruction manual). Or, you can add compensation values set on the camera to the value set on the SB-50DX (or vice versa). Note that, in this case, the SB-50DX LCD panel shows the compensation value set on the SB-50DX only.

+ To cancel flash output level compensation, press the + or — button until the value indication shows "0" and Æ2 disappears in the LCD panel. (Turning the SB-50DX off does not cancel the flash output compensation.)

The SB-50DX's AF-Assist Illuminator enables you to perform autofocus flash photography in dim light.

+ The AF-Assist Iluminator automatically turns on when the camera's shutter release button is lightly pressed in dim light. After focus is achieved, the AF-Assist Iluminator turns off.

+ The AF-Assist Iluminator is not activated when the is shown in the LCD panel. To activate the AF-Assist Illuminator, press the MODE and - buttons at the same time until the disappears.

+ The AF-Assist Illuminator can be used with the Nikon AF camera when AF Nikkor lenses are used.

+ Usable focal length for the AF-Assist IIluminator is approx. 24mm to 105mm (35mm to 105mm with the F-501/N2020). Autofocus distance range with the AF-Assist Illuminator is from approx. 1m (8.3 ft.) to approx. 5m (16 ft).

+ For autofocus with the AF-Assist Illuminator, set the camera’s focus mode to Single Servo AF (Autofocus with Focus-Priority), AF or A. (See your camera's instruction manual.)

+ The AF-Assist Illuminator does not turn on when the focus is locked or when the ready-light does not light up.

+ When using the SB-50DX, the camera's AF- Assist Illuminator does not turn on but the AF- Assist Illuminator on the SB-50DX turns on. However with F60-series/N60 and SB-50DX's flash mode set to manual, AF-Assist Illuminator of the F60-series/N60 turns on. (See your camera's instruction manual.)

+ With some cameras, AF-Assist Illuminator of the SB-50DX may not turn on when performing double flash shooting using the camera's built-in Speedlight (p. 42, 54).

utoñocus Flash Photography in Dim Light

With cameras having selectable focus areas

Set the camera's AF area mode to Single Area AF and select the center focus

area, or set Dynamic AF Mode with Closest Subject Priority. (If center focus area

is not selected in Single Area AF mode, the AF-Assist Illuminator does not turn

on). For detailed information about AF area mode, see your camera's instruction

M Canceling AF-Assist Illuminator

+ To cancel the AF-Assist Illuminator, press the MODE and - buttons at the same time until appears in the LCD panel.

+ With the AF-Assist Illuminator canceled, autofocusing may not be performed in dim light.

+ To activate the AF-Assist Illuminator, press the MODE and - buttons once again so disappears. (Without this operation, the AF-Assist Illuminator remains canceled even after the SB-50DX is turned off.)

+ With the F80-series/N80-series and F65- series/N65-series camera bodies, canceling the AF-Assist Illuminator on the SB-50DX does not cancel the AF-Assist Illuminator on camera body. To cancel the AF-Assist Illuminator, also cancel it on the camera body. (For details, see your cameras instruction manual.)

TECHNICAL OPERATION This chapter shows photographic techniques in flash shooting such as bounce flash and multiple flash.

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When taking pictures of a person in front of a wall, a direct flash often causes harsh, unattractive shadows on the subject or background (photo below, right). By bouncing the light off the ceiling or walls, you can soften the shadows and produce more natural-looking portraits (left and center photos). In addition to the general single-flash bounce operation (center photo), the SB-50DX enables you to perform double-flash bounce operation when used with a camera having a built-in Speedlight (photo below, left). Double-flash bounce operation will provide a more natural-looking lighting effect. If your camera has a built-in Speedlight, perform this double-flash bounce operation. In bounce-flash photography, high ISO sensitivity such as ISO 400 is recommended.

Direct flash (built-in Speediight)

Bounce-flash with single flash

Bounce-flash (off the ceiling) with double flash

Bilting the flash head + The flash head can be tilted up to 90° or down to -18°.

; a Horizontal on Tilting angle Up to 90 position (0°) Down to -18°*1 Click-stop positions’? | 90°, 75° and 50° o° 18°

LCD panel indication Ê

Zoom-head position Fixed at 50mm"3 24 to 50mm flash adapter's. 4)

(SO 100, mA) 26/85 (fixed)

18/59 to 26/85 12/39 (fixed*4)

“1 Generall}, the flash head is tilted down for close-up flash shooting (p. 43). Attach

the wide-flash adapter.

“2 Flash head can be tilted up or down to the intermediate positions.

“3 Power Zoom does not function (p. 16).

“4 Zoom head position is fixed at 24mm and guide number 18/59 (m/ft.) without the wide-flash adapter

BBounce-flash operation with single flash (example photos, p. 10)

1. Attach the SB-50DX to the camera body and set the camera's exposure mode to Aperture-Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). (See your camera's instruction manual).

2. Set the camera's metering system to Matrix Metering or Center-Weighted Metering and flash sync mode to Front-Curtain Sync. (See your camera's instruction manual.)

+ Generally, set flash sync mode to Front-Curtain Sync.

+ If your camera does not have the flash sync mode option, Front-Curtain Sync is activated.

. Press the MODE button of the SB-50DX to set TTL/D-TTL auto flash (p. 18). . Tilt the flash head.

+ For easiest bounce-flash operation, tilt the flash head up at least 50° to bounce light off the ceiling. Make sure that the light from the flash head does not directly illuminate the subject.

+ Good results are generally obtained when the flash head is positioned 1 to 2m away from the reflecting surface (ceiling, wall, etc.). L

5. Set the aperture. as

+ With bounce flash, there is light loss when compared to normal flash operation, so use an aperture two to three stops wider (smaller f-number) than you would for regular TTL auto flash operation.

6. Compose, focus, confirm the ready-light comes on, then shoot.

+ Ifthe ready-light on the SB-50DX and the camera's viewfinder ready-light # blink for approx. 3 sec. after shooting (p. 21), the flash has fired at its maximum output. This may indicate underexposure has occurred. To compensate, use a wider aperture (smaller f- number) or reduce the bounce distance {distance between the flash head and reflecting surface and/or distance between the subject and reflecting surface).

EN Technical Operation

Note on reflecting surface

In color photography, select white or highly reflective surfaces to bounce light off of. Otherwise, your picture will come out with an unnatural color cast similar to that of the reflecting surface.

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 42

ash Photography—continued

BBounce-flash operation with double flash (SB-50DX and camera's With the wide-flash adapter attached to the SB-50DX, close-up flash built-in Speedlight) (example photos, p. 10) shooting down to 0.3m (1.0 ft.) can be performed. 1. Attach the SB-50DX to the camera and attach the provided diffuser on the camera's built-in Speedlight.

+ Strong light from the camera's built-in Speedlight may adversely affect the bounce effect. Use the provided diffuser to soften the light from the camera's built-in Speedlight for a more natural- looking lighting effect.

+ Lift up the diffuser, release the cameras built-in Speedlight (see your cameras instruction manual), and then lower the diffuser gently in front of the camera's Speediight as shown. With F65-series/ N65-series set to # AUTO mode or Vari-Program, the built-in Speedlight does not fire even when it is

up. u ë à + The camera Speedlight detecting lever on the H Close-up flash operation (example photos, p. 22) SB-50DX detects that the camera's Speediight is 1. Attach the SB-S0DX to the camera body and set the camera's exposure activated and = is displayed in the LCD panel. mode to Aperture-Priority Auto (A) or Manual (M). (See your camera's + To store the diffuser, reverse the steps described instruction manual). above. 2. Set the camera's metering system to Matrix or Center-Weïghted Metering 2. Perform bounce-flash operation in the same manner as with single flash and flash sync mode to Front-Curtain Sync. (See your cameras instruction (p.41). manual.) + Set the SB-50DX to TTL auto flash mode (p. 18). + Generally, set flash sync mode to Front-Curtain Sync. * if your camera does not have the flash sync mode option, Front-Curtain Sync is

3. Press the MODE button of the SB-50DX to set the flash mode for TTL/ D-TTL auto flash (p. 18).

4. Attach the wide-flash adapter in front of the flash head.

+ The wide-flash adapter diffuses light and softens the subject's shadow. Always attach the wide-flash adapter for close-up flash shooting.

+ Slide the wide-flash adapter straight out from the bottom of the flash head where it is stored, then attach it to the front of the flash head.

+ Zoom-head position is fixed at 14mm and the Power Zoom function becomes inactive.

+ To store the wide-flash adapter, detach it from the flash head, then slide it back into its original position.

02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 44

lash Photography—continued

5. Tilt the flash head down.

+ Tilt the flash head down to -18°.

+ 2% is displayed in the LCD panel.

+ ‘2 blinks if the wide-flash adapter is not attached. Attach the wide-flash adapter for close-up flash shooting.

+ The camera built-in Speedlight cannot be used when flash head of the SB-50DX is tilted down. When the built-in Speediight is activated, 12 blinks. Press the camera's Speedlight down to retract it.

6. Set the aperture. + Refer to the table below and use the following equation to determine the

aperture. ISO fim speed | 25 | 50 | 100 | 200 | 400 | 800 Factor (mt) [1.446] 26.6 | 2/66 | 418 | 418 [5.618 factor Stop = SE to-subject distance

For example, with a subject 0.5m (1.6 ft.) away using ISO 100 film, the suggested aperture is:

In this instance you should use at least f/4 or even smaller aperture (larger f- number), such as f/5.6 or f/8.

7. Compose, focus, confirm the ready-l

ht comes on, then shoot. + Ifthe ready-light on the SB-50DX and the camera's viewfinder ready-light # blink for approx. 3 sec. after shooting, the flash has fired at its maximum output. This may indicate underexposure has occurred. To compensate, use a wider aperture (smaller f-number). + Vignetting due to lighting situation, lens in use, focal length, etc. may occur in close-up flash shooting. Test shooting is recommended.

]Muitipie Flash Photography

Perform multiple flash shooting in the following situations:

+ To eliminate shadows cast by the subject (p. 59)

+ To emphasize the subject's outline (p. 60)

+ To illuminate the subject mainly from the side (p. 61)

+ Toilluminate a far subject (p. 62)

The SB-50DX enables you to perform the following multiple flash shootings.

+ Wireless multiple flash shooting (p. 48)

+ Multiple flash shooting with the SB-50DX attached with the Infrared Filter SW-9IR used as an infrared remote commander (p. 53)

+ Double flash shooting using the SB-50DX with the camera's built-in Speedlight (p. 54)

+ Multiple flash shooting using cords (p. 55)

02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 46

Multiple flash (eliminating shadows cast by the subject)

Single flash (built-in Speediight)

Camera's settings in multiple flash operation

+ Set the camera's exposure mode to Aperture-Priority Auto or Manual, exposure metering system to Matrix or Center-Weighted and flash syne mode to Front- Curtain Sync in multiple flash operation. If your camera does not have the flash sync mode option, Front-Curtain Sync is automatically activated.

Automatic Balanced Fill- Flash with TTL Muiti- Sensor (Group | camera, p. 28)

SB-80DX, 50DX Set the Wireless Flash mode (p. 48).

Press the MODE button to set it to Standard TTL Flash (p. 26).

Tilt the flash head up.

(F80-series/N80- Series, F70-series/ N70)

Set exposure mode to Manual (Standard TTL Flash is performed).

SB-28/28DX, 27, | Set Standard TTL Flash. 26, 25 Tilt the flash head up. SB-50DX Cannot be canceled. All the D-TTL auto flash modes (digital SLR) SB-80DX, 28DX Cannot be canceled. (Set non-

TTL auto flash instead of D- TTL auto flash; the Speedlight can be used as a master flash unit in wireless multiple flash operation.)

Wireless Mutipie Flash Operation

You can perform wireless multiple flash operation with the SB-50DX. The light sensor on the SB-50DX senses light received from the master flash unit (Speedlight, such as the SB-50DX attached on the camera or camera's built-in Speedlight) to trigger the SB-50DX and control the flash duration of the SB-50DX.

02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 48

ATTL auto wireless multiple flash operation 1. Attach the master flash unit to the camera. + Before attaching the Speedlight, turn off the Speedlight and camera. 2. Position the SB-50DX as a slave flash unit.

+ Set the SB-50DX at a position (normally closer to the subject than the camera) where light from the master flash unit can reach the light sensor on the SB-50DX.

+ Effective range of the SB-50DX's light sensor in the TTL wireless multiple flash operation is approx. 7m 3 ft).

Light from master flash unit

+ There is no limit to the number of slave flash units (SB-80DX, SB-50DX, SB-30 units or other Speedlights with the SU-4 attached, p. 56) that can be used together. However, if too much light from other slave flash units enters the light sensor of the Speedlight, correct operation may not be possible. So the practical number of Slave flash units usable is up to three.

3. Turn on the camera and all the Speedlights.

+ To use the SB-50DX as a master flash unit with (silver chloride) film cameras, press the SLAVE button for approx. 1 sec. to set the Wireless Flash mode with %- indication in the LCD panel. Monitor pre-flashes (p. 27) will not be fired even if the Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi- Sensor (p. 25) is selected.

4. Set the flash mode on the master flash unit to TTL auto (p. 18).

- To use the camera's built-in Speedlight as the master unit, release the built-in Speedlight. (See your camera's instruction manual).

+ Auto wireless multiple flash operation is also possible with the master flash unit set to non-TTL auto. (See the Speedlight instruction manual for details.) With the master flash unit set to non-TTL auto, the light sensor on the slave SB-50DX unit also senses light received from the master flash unit to trigger the slave SB-50DX unit and control the flash duration. With non-TTL auto, you can perform auto wireless multiple flash operation with Nikon digital SLRs or cameras that are not compatible with TTL auto flash (Nikon FM2, FE10, FM10, etc.).

. Set the SB-50DX (used as a slave flash unit) to the Wireless Flash mode. + Press the SLAVE button for approx. one second to activate :* for Auto Slave Flash mode or # for Manual Slave Flash mode indicated in the LCD panel. Ifthe # is shown, press the MODE button to set the

Auto Slave Flash mode with «> indication.

+ When the Wireless Flash mode is activated, the flash mode indication (p. 18) disappears from the LCD panel.

+ In the Wireless Flash mode, leaving the SB-50DX unused for more than approx. one hour activates the standby function (p. 13) and the SB-50DX is automatically tumed off.

+ To cancel the Wireless Flash mode, press the SLAVE button until the Wireless Flash mode indication disappears from the LCD panel. (Turning off the SB-50DX does not cancel the Wireless Flash mode.)

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 50 0

Wireless Muitipte Flash Operation—continued

6. Shoot following the same procedure as in normal TTL auto flash operation. + Flash operation can be confirmed with ready-light indication or beeping sound.

(Wireless Flash mode

Master flash unit Slave flash unit r Speedlight condition Ready-light | Ready-light | Sound monitor Lights up Lights up: Beepsonce | Ready to fire

Lights up or Lights up or à does not come on] does not come on! Beeps twice | Fired properiy (not blinking) | (not blinking)

Both master and slave flash units have fired at full output and light may have been insufficient (or too much) for correct exposure. Change the distance between Speedlights and subject or select another aperture and shoot again (p.21)

Blinks Blinks free sec.

Pressing the SLAVE button on the SB-50DX for approx. 1 sec. activates the Wireless Flash mode. When using the SB-50DX as a master flash unit and attaching it to a camera body {other than Nikon digital SLR), - appears in the LCD panel and Monitor pre-flashes (p. 27) are canceled. Monitor pre-flashes will not be fired even if the Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor (p. 25) is selected.

Ifthe SB-50DX is detached as it is, indication is replaced by x or æ and you can use the SB-50DX as a slave flash unit.

Slave SB-50DX has fired at full output The light sensor on the slave SB-50DX unit could not detect when to stop firing in sync with the master flash unit, This was because either the light sensor Beeps for approx.| window was not directed at the master ihree sec. | flash unit or a strong reflection from the slave SB-50DX itself or light from another slave flash unit may have entered the light sensor window In this case, change the direction or position of the slave SB-50DX unit and/or other slave flash unit(s), then shoot again.

Lights up or does not come on! Blinks {not blinking)

( Canceling sound monitor

To cancel the sound monitor, press the ZOOM and + buttons simultaneously so &@ appears in the LCD panel. To reactivate the sound monitor function, press the ZOOM and + buttons simultaneously again so @ disappears from the LCD panel and the sound

Canceling (preventing accidental) flash firing Raise the camera Speedlight detecting lever with your finger to prevent accidental firing in sync with other Speedlights. The SB-50DX will not fire while the lever is in the “up” position.

monitor beeps twice.

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 52 0 Wireless Multiple Flash Operation—continued

tint Flash Operation Using the Infrared Remote Commander

Manual wireless multiple flash operation with the SB-50DX set at With the Infrared Filter SW-9IR, you can use the master SB-50DX unit as Manual Slave Flash mode an infrared remote commander to perform wireless multiple flash To fire the slave SB-50DX unit placed distant from the master flash unit (or operation. With the SW-9IR attached, the master SB-50DX unit fires

where the light of the master flash does not reach) without cords, set the slave SB-50DX unit to Manual Slave Flash mode. Slave SB-50DX unit detects the light from other flash unit(s) such as a master flash unit and fires at full output.

infrared rays that do not expose normal film to trigger the slave SB-80DX, 50DX, 30 unit or other slave flash unit (with the SU-4) to illuminate the subject without master flash unit lighting.

+ Press the SLAVE button for approx. one second to

activate 2 for Auto Slave Flash mode or 3» for ÆMuitiple flash operation using the infrared remote commander

Manual Slave Flash mode indicated in the LCD 1. Attach the Infrared Filter SW-9IR to the panel. Ifthe > is shown, press the MODE to set SB-50DX flash head. the Manual Slave Flash mode with %> indication. + Attach the SW-9IR so that it fits into the

+ Aperture is determined by the guide number (p. 33) grooves on the flash head. and flash shooting distance. You can control + To remove the SW-9IR, pull it out from the exposure by varying flash-to-subject distance. (Test groove on one side.

shooting is recommended.) Effective range of the SB-50DX's light sensor in the Manual Slave Flash mode is approx. 40m (131 ft). In the Manual Slave Flash mode, the light sensor on the slave SB-50DX becomes very sensitive; manual wireless multiple flash shooting may be performed even if the light sensor is not facing the master

flash unit. 2. Attach the SB-50DX to the camera body for use as a master flash unit. E + Set flash mode on the master flash unit to TTL auto + Before attaching the SB-50DX, turn off the SB-50DX and camera. Fs flash mode without Monitor pre-flash (p. 27) (See + Do not use the camera's built-in Speedlight. EA “Canceling Monitor pre-flashes”, p. 47), non-TTL 8. Shoot following the same procedure as in wireless multiple flash operation auto or Manual (p. 31). (Usable flash mode depends without infrared remote commander (p. 48). E on camera/Speedlight combination. See instruction + Press the SLAVE button on the SB-50DX (master flash unit) for approx. 1 sec. to E:] manual of your camera and Speedlight). set the Speedlight to Wireless Flash mode (p. 48) pe

+ Use another SB-80DX, 50DX, 30 and/or other Speedlight with the SU-4 (p. 56) as slave flash unit(s).

+ With the SW-9IR attached to the master SB-50DX, the effective range of the light sensor on the slave flash unit is approx. 7m (23 ft.) in the Auto Slave Flash mode (p. 49) or approx. 40m (131 ft. in the Manual Slave Flash mode (p. 52).

Carrying the Infrared Filter SW-9IR When not used, the SW-9IR can be placed on top of the flash head. Fit the SW-9IR into the grooves on the flash head.

02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 54

By attaching the SB-50DX to a camera that has a built-in Speedlight, you can easily perform double-flash operation.

M Double-flash operation with built-in Speedlight (with the SB-50DX in horizontal position) 1. Attach the SB-50DX to the camera body and release the camera's built-in Speedlight.

+ Set the flash head in the horizontal position.

+ Release the camera's built-in Speedlight. (See your camera's instruction manual).

+ The camera Speedlight detecting lever detects that the camera's built-in Speedlight is activated. The LCD panel shows 2 indicating the horizontal position of the SB-50DX flash head and 28 indicating the built-in Speedlight.

2. Set the zoom-head position (p. 16) on the SB-50DX. (For the angle of coverage of the camera’s built-in Speedlight, see your camera's instruction manual).

+ The usable focal length of the lens should be determined by the angle coverage of the camera's built-in Speediight. With a zoom lens, select the zoom position so that it is within the angle of coverage of the built-in Speedlight.

+ With a CPU lens and cameras of Group |, Il or Nikon Digital SLR, the zoom-head position is automatically adjusted by the Power Zoom function 4. 16). When the Power Zoom is not activated with camera/lens combination in use, manually set the zoom-head position (p. 17) so that it corresponds to the angle of coverage of the lens’ focal length.

8. Shoot following the same procedure as in normal TTL auto flash operation

+ Set the flash mode on the SB-50DX to TTL auto (p. 18).

+ For the combined guide number in double-flash operation, see p. 33.

+ With F65-series/N65-series set to #8 AUTO mode or Vari-Program, built-in Speedlight does not fire even when it is up.

+ For available exposure mode in double-flash operation with the F70-series/N70, see "Exposure mode with the Nikon F70-series/N70* on p. 42.

+ In double-flash operation with the Nikon F70-series/N70 or PRONEA 600/ PRONEA Gi camera, see “When using the Nikon F70-series/N70 or PRONEA 00i/PRONEA Gi* on p. 42.

of S8-S0D For detailed information about function, operation, connection, etc., see the instruction manual for your camera and Speedlight.

BTTL multiple flash operation using cords 1. Turn off all the Speedlights and connect the

TTL multiple flash terminals with the

optional TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18/

+ The SB-50DX does not come with a TTL multiple flash terminal. Use the optional TTL Remote Cord SC-17/SC-24 (p. 56) for TTL multiple flash operation.

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 56 0

es for Multiple Flash Operation

To perform TTL multiple flash operation, use the following optional accessories.

Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 + The SU-4 enables a Speedlight other than the SB-80DX, 50DX and 30 to be used as a slave flash unit to perform wireless multiple flash operation (p. 48).

+ The SK-7 is used to position the camera and SB-50DX horizontally for multiple flash operation.

+ Use the TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 to attach the SB-50DX on the Bracket SK-7.

EFFECTIVE SPEEDI TTL Remote Cord SC-17 (approx. 1.5m/4.9 ft.)/SC-24 (approx. 1.5m/4.9 ft.) P LAC E M E NT

+ Use the SC-17/SC-24 for off-camera TTL auto flash operation or TTL multiple Properly adjusting the position and angle of the

flash operation with the SB-50DX. Two TTL multiple flash terminals and one . ; : 1 tripod socket are provided. For F5 cameras with the DW-30/DW-31 finder or for Speedlights improves results in multiple flash photog raphy.

F4 cameras with the DW-20/DW-21 finder, use the SC-24.

TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18 (approx. 1.5m/4.9 ft.)/SC-19 (approx.

+ Use the SC-18 or SC-19 cord to connect the Speedlights via the TTL multiple flash terminal (on the AS-10, SC-17, etc.) for TTL multiple flash operation.

TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10

+ The TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 can be connected to perform TTL multiple flash operation using cords for slave flash Speedlight units that do not have TTL multiple flash terminals. However, in TTL multiple flash operation using cords, use of the SB-50DX (or SB-23) as a slave flash unit is not recommended (p. 55). The tripod socket of the AS-10 enables stable placement of the Speedlight unit on a tripod or Bracket SK-7 in wireless multiple flash operation.

+ Three multiple flash terminals are provided on the AS-10.

BBounce-flash operation to produce more natural-looking pictures Bounce the light off the ceiling or walls to produce more natural-looking portraits where the entire frame is properly exposed.

Reflective surface (ceiling) 7

+ See “Bounce-Flash Photography" on p. 40 to 42.

+ For using the camera's built-in Speedlight, see “Bounce-flash operation with double flash {SB-50DX and camera's built-in Speedlight)" on p. 42.

to reduce the brightness of the master flash unit.

+ Ifthe light from the master flash unit is too strong, bounce-flash operation is not effective. In this case, use the diffuser (p. 42) or wide-flash adapter (p. 17)

HEliminating shadows cast by the subject

To eliminate unattractive shadows from the background when taking portraits, you can use one or more slave flash units to illuminate the background.

+ Set the slave flash unit to Manual flash mode (Manual Slave Flash mode with the SB-50DX, p. 52). Calculate and determine aperture by using the guide number and distance from the slave flash unit to the background with the equation (p. 83). Use an aperture value obtained with the equation or 1/3 to one step smaller (larger f-number). You can also choose a higher flash output setting (by two to three steps) for the slave flash unit to overexpose the background and completely eliminate it.

+ When using a camera in Group I, Il or Ill (p. 28), compensate flash output level to the + side €. 35).

Speedlight Placement

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 60

‘Effective Speedlight Placement—continued

BEmphasizing the outline of the subject When taking a portrait, you can backlight the subject by placing a Speediight directly behind the subject to emphasize the outline of the subject. } + Set the slave flash unit to Manual flash mode (Manual Slave Flash mode with the SB-50DX, p. 52) for rather high output level.

Milluminating a subject mainly from the side By using the infrared remote commander (p. 53), a subject can be illuminated mainly from the side with Speedlights placed away from the camera.

+ Place the Speedlight(s) to achieve desired effect.

+ When using a camera in Group |, Il or Ill (p. 28), ns compensate flash output level (p. 35) to the + side. slave flash unit

Master flash unit (SB-50DX with SW-9IR filter): without SW-SIR Wireless Flash mode (Automatic Balanced Fill Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor)

Slave flash unit (SB-50DX): Auto Slave Flash mode

Using more than two Speedlights

The brighiness of flash illumination is inversely

proportional to the square of the distance

between the flash unit and the subject. For

Camera: F80D (Manual exposure mode, Front-Curtain example, if the distance between Speedlight À

and the subject is 1m (3.8 ft), and Speediight B Sync flash mode) ; 2 Lens: AF Zoom-Nikkor 28-80mm f/3.3-5.6G is 2m (6.6 ft, the combined brightness of the two Speediights wil be: De

Speedlight A Master flash unit (built-in Speedlight): Standard TTL A:B = 12:22 = 1: 4 (in meters) Flash or 8.32 : 6.62 = 11 : 44 (in feet)] Speedignt 8

M Save flash unit (SB-50DX): Manual Slave Flash mode Therefore, the illumination provided by Single flash Eu It-in Speedlight A is four times (or two steps) 4 peed brighter than that provided by Speedlight B. | SB-50DX with SW-OI fiter

Speedlight Placement

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 62 0 ‘Effective Speedlight Placement—continued

Æilluminating a distant subject When light from the master flash unit is not strong enough to illuminate a subject at a distance with a single flash unit (or the camera's built-in Speedlight), you can use several Speedlights in combination to produce pictures with a properly illuminated subject.

+ Position the slave flash unit at the side of the camera and master flash unit (as illustrated). The optional SK-7 bracket (p. 56) enables you to easily set the slave flash unit to the side of the camera and master flash unit.

+ For calculating the compound guide number, see

“Guide number" on p. 33.

Camera: F80D (Aperture-Priority Auto exposure mode, Front-Curtain Sync flash mode)

+ Cleaning Speedlight Use a blower brush to remove dirt and dust from the SB-50DX and clean it with a soft, clean cloth. After using the SB-50DX near seawater, wipe the SB-50DX with a soft, clean cloth slightly moistened with pure water to remove salt, and then dry it with a dry cloth. NEVER use organic solvents like thinner or benzene. They may damage the SB-50DX. On rare occasions, the LCD may turn on or turn dark due to static electricity. This is not a malfunction. The display soon returns to normal.

+ Do not subject the SB-50DX to strong vibration or shock

02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 64

Do not drop the SB-50DX or hit it against a hard surface as this may damage its precision mechanism. +Avoid strong electric or magnetic fields

The SB-50DX may not function properly in strong electric or magnetic fields such as near a transmitter tower. Avoid using the SB-50DX in such locations.

+ Store the SB-50DX in a cool, dry place

Store the SB-50DX in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew. Keep it away from naphthalene or camphor (moth repellent), electrical appliances that generate magnetic fields or an excessively hot place such as inside a vehicle during the summer or near a heater.

+Avoid extreme temperature change

An extreme temperature change can cause condensation inside the SE-S0DX. When taking the SB-50DX to a very hot place from a very cold place or vice versa, place it inside an airtight container such as a plastic bag and leave it inside a while to expose the SB-50DX gradually to the temperature change.

+ Avoid water or moisture

Keep the SB-50DX away from water or moisture. When using the SB-50DX near water, guard against splashes, especially salt water spray.

+ Remove the batteries and store the SB-50DX with a desiccant

IF you do not intend to use the SB-50DX for a long time, remove the batteries to

protect the SB-50DX from battery leakage.

+ In a humid environment, store the SB-50DX inside a plastic bag with a desiccant to keep out dust, moisture and salt. Note, however, that storing leather cases in vinyl bags may cause the leather to deteriorate. Keep the batteries in a cool, dry place away from heat or humidity.

+ Change the desiccant occasionally since it does not absorb moisture effectively after a while.

+ Leaving the SB-50DX unused for a long period of time may cause mold to grow and result in malfunction. To maintain the Speedlight in peak condition, fire it a few times every month. This will enable you to use the flash for many years.

_ ]Notes on Batteries

Keep batteries out of children's reach.

If someone accidentally swallows batteries, call a doctor immediately.

+ Use two CR123A or DL123A type lithium batteries

Use two fresh CR123A or DL123A type lithium batteries. Do not mix different

+ Change the batteries well before the end of their life and prepare spare batteries before important photographic occasions.

+ Turn the SB-50DX's power off when changing batteries

Turn the SB-50DX's power off before changing batteries and insert the batteries

with @ and © ends positioned correctly.

+ Stains on the battery poles may cause lack of contact. Wipe the batteries well with a dry cloth before installing.

*Use fresh batteries at low temperatures

Battery power diminishes at extremely low temperatures and the SB-50DX may

not function properly with old batteries. Use a fresh set of batteries at low

temperatures, keep spare batteries warm, and use them alternately.

+ Flash recycling time slows down and number of firings per set of batteries becomes less at low temperatures. However, battery power usually recovers when the temperature returns to normal.

+ Do not throw batteries into a fire or short circuit batteries

Do not throw batteries into a fire. Do not short, disassemble, heat or charge

Nikon cannot be held responsible for any malfunction resulting from the use of the camera other than as specified in this manual.

Camera | Wamingindication Cause Remedy Page Camera | Warning indication Cause Remedy Page All cameras | Ready-light does not … | Batteries are not Install batteries 12 Cameras of | Ready-light blinks and | The SB-50DX has fired | Set wider aperture |21 come on. correctiy installed. | correctiy Group land | A blinksinthe LCD | atits maximum output. | (smaller -number) or Nikon digital | panel. (This may indicate | move closer to the The SB-S0DX is Batteries are Replace batteries with | 12 SLR cameras ünderexposure has |subject and shoot automatically tumed | exhausted. new ones occurred.) again. off. Wide-flash adapter is | Attach the wide-flash | 43 Cameras of | HUE does not Non-CPU lens is Attach CPU lens. With | 9, 25 In close-up flash not attached or adapter correctiy. Group Il appear in the LCD attached (except when | a non-CPU lens, use shooting, the wide- | improperly attached. panel. using the F4-series). | flash mode other than flash adapter indication Matrix Balanced Fill- blinks in the LCD panel. Flash/Center-Weighted Fil-Flash. Cameras other | Only the camera's (not | The SB-50DX (in TTL/D- | Attach SB-50DX 15 than FE10 | SB-50DXS) viewinder | TTL auto flash mode) is | properiy. Matrix Balanced Fill-|Set Matrix Balanced | 18 ready-light is blinking | not properiy attached. Flash/Center-Weighted | Fil-Flash/Center- when the shutter Fll-Flash is not set. | Weighted Fil-Flash. release button is lightiy pressed. Spot Metering is set | Set Matrix Metering or | 18 {except when using the | Center-Weighted Cameras that | The ready-ight blinks | The SB-50DX has fired | Set wider aperture | 21 F-801S). Metering. are compatible | for approx. 3 sec. after | atits maximum output. | (smaller f-number) or with TTL/D- |TTL/D-TTL autofiash | (This may indicate | move closer to the Cameras of |Camera's viewinder [ISO film speed ofthe [Use afmwithISO |15, TTL auto flash | shooting. underexposure has | subject and shoot Group V and VI |ready-light blinks when | film in use or film film speed within the | 31 occurred.) again. except for F3- | SB-50DX (in TTL auto | speed set on the usable flm speed series with AS- | flash mode) is attached | camera exceeds the range, set the Cameras with | In close-up flash Camera's buit-in Press the buit-in 4 17 and FMSA | to camera and power is | high-sensitivity side of | camera film speed buil-in shooting, the camera | Speedight is released. | Speedlight down to tumed on. the usable film speed … | within the range, or Speedight | built-in Speediight retract it range. (Same warning _ | set Manual flash indication blinks in the appears with the FA | mode. LCD panel camera when the lower side is exceeded.) Cameras of | fie (or oiitet for | Non-CPU lens is Attach CPU lens. With | 9, 25 Group land |digital cameras) does … | attached. a non-CPU lens, use Cameras of Group | Ready-light on the | Shutter speed is set at | Set shutter speed to Nikon digital | not appear in the LCD flash mode other than Viexcept for F3-_ | SB-50DX lights up but | M90, M250 or B in TTL. | another setting. SLR cameras _ | panel. Automatic Balanced series with AS-17, | camera's viewtinder | auto flash mode. Fil-Flash with TTL FE2andF6 |ready-light blinks. Mutt-Sensor. FMSa and FM2 | Ready-light on the | Shutter speed is set at | Set shutter speed to Automatic Balanced | Set Automatic 18 SB-50DX lights up but | faster speed than the |flash sync speed or Fll-Flash with TTL |Balanced Fil-Flash camera viewtinder |sync shutter speed. | slower. Multi-Sensor is not set. | with TTL Muiti-Sensor. ready-light blinks. Spot Metering is set on | Set Matrix Metering or | 18 Cameras Ready-light on the | TTL auto flash is seton | Set Manual flash ai camera (except when | Center-Weighted incompatible | SB-50DX lights up but | the SB-50DX. mode. using the F90X/N90s, _ | Metering. with TTL/D-TTL | cameras viewtinder F90-series/N90 and auto flash [ready-light links. F70-series/N70) 66 67

02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 68

L troubleshooting—continuea

ÆMicrocomputer of the SB-50DX The SB-50DX is electronically controlled by a microcomputer. In certain cases, the microcomputer may not correctly control the SB-50DX even with fresh, properly installed batteries. In the same way, incorrect indications may appear in the LCD panel. In each of these cases, to resume operation, remove and reinstall the batteries with the SB-50DX turned on.

Bi -- blinks in place of zoom-head position indication + Zoom-head cannot be set. + Turn off the SB-50DX and camera, detach the SB-50DX from the camera and reattach it, then turn both units on. If operation is not resumed, contact an authorized Nikon dealer or service center.

BBlinking ZOOM and mm indications in the LCD panel

+ ZOOM and mm blink when performing double- flash operation with F70-series/N70 or PRONEA

1 600ï/PRONEA &i cameras; however this does

not indicate any malfunction. See “When using the Nikon F70-series/N70 or PRONEA 600i/PRONEA Gi” on p. 42.

+ When performing double-flash operation with F80-series/N80-series cameras, Power Zoom function (p. 16) may not operate properly in rare cases. In this case ZOOM and mm blink in the SB-50DX' LCD panel; turn the SB-50DX power off and then turn it on again.

Mi auto flash shooting distance range (ft.)

(Usable film speeds, usable apertures and flash shooting distance ranges in the TTL auto flash mode are as follows:

{i4mm zoom-head position with the wide-flash adapter)

For example, if you select f/8 with an ISO 400 film at 35mm zoom-head position, flash shooting distance range would be 2.0-18 ft.

1S0 film speed Zoom-head position 25 | 50 |100/200/400| 800 |16t 14mm | 24mm | 28mm | 35mm | 50mm —|—1|14| 21281] 4 |5.6] 26-29 | 39-39 | 4.2-46 | 4.6-49 | 5.6-59 —|14| 2|2.8| 4 [5.6| 8 | 2.0-20 | 2.6-30 | 3.0-33 | 3.3-36 | 3.9-43 1412 |28[ 4 5.6] 8 | 11 |2.0-14 | 2.0-21 | 2.3-23 | 2.3-25 | 3.0-30

S2fslafsspel nl 20-15 | 20-16 [20-18] 2.0-21 ${28l 4 56] 8 | 11116 [ 22 2.0-10 | 2.0-12 | 2.0-13 | 2.0-15 AREEORIEE

TTL auto flash shooting distance range (ft)

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM Page 70 7 = 1 Spec cations Electronic Automatic Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) and Recycling time and | Minimum recycling type: approx. 3.5 sec. with fresh batteries. construction series circuitry. number of flashes | Number of flashes and recycling time: 260 times or more

with 8.5 to 80 sec. recycling time. (With AF-Assist Illuminator, Power Zoom function and LCD panel illuminator not activated.)

+ See p. 33 for guide numbers in 1/300 TTL High-Speed AF-Assist Automatically fires LED beam toward subject when performing Sync. Illuminator autofocus in dim light or in the dark with Nikon AF cameras. Angle of coverage | Variable in four steps, plus one-step with wide-flash adapter. Ready-light Lights up when SB-50DX is charged and ready to fire.

Blinks when flash fires at its maximum output, indicating light

Zoom-head … | Angle of coverage may have been insufficient (in TTL/D-TTL auto flash mode). position Vertical | Horizontal STE 5 FLASH Butor Dario ST Pa 5e Q utton ressing utton performs test firing.

ÉHRSS 14mm 87 106 + Pressing the button turns the SB-S0DX on again after the unit Dans ZT _ F has been automatically tued off by the standby function. 28m 28mm 53 70 Wide-flash adapter | Allows the SB-50DX to be used with 14mm lenses. 35mm 85mm 45° 60° Diffuser Attach diffuser to the cameras built-in Speedlight for 50mm 50mm ES 46 double-flash (bounce) operation.

Approximately 1/1800 sec. at manual full output.

Flash head tilts up to 90° or down to -18° with click stops at 90°, 75°, 50°, 0° and -18°.

ON/OFF button is provided: pressing the ON/OFF button for

approx. 0.8 sec. turns the SB-50DX on or off.

+ When the SB-50DX is not used for approx. 40 sec., the standby function activates and the SB-50DX automatically turns off to conserve battery power.

The SB-50DX emits a single beep when it is charged and ready-to fire in wireless multiple flash operation.

The SB-50DX emits two beeps when it has fired properly in wireless multiple flash operation.

The SB-50DX emits beeps for 3 sec. after it has fired at maximum output or improperly fired in TTL wireless multiple flash operation in the Auto Slave Flash mode.

Flash exposure control/type of TTL/D-TTL auto flash

Pressing the MODE button changes flash mode/type of TTL/ D-TTL auto flash.

Senses light received from the master flash unit in wireless multiple flash operation.

Wireless Flash mode Auto Slave Flash Manual Slave Flash

Effective range Approx. 7m (23 ft) Approx. 40m (131 f)

TO] TTL auto flash | Automatic Balanced Fi-Flash wih TTL Muhi-Sensor Infrared Filter SW-9IR | Enables you to use the SB-50DX as an infrared remote commander. [TT] Matrix Balanced/Center-Weighted” Spot Fil-Flash Lock lever Prevents the SB-50DX from accidentall slipping off the camera. ui Standard TTL Fiash__ _ LCD panel Tumned on and off every time the SLAVE button is pressed: DNS DL Automatic Balanced FII-FIeSh wi iluminator automatically turns off after approx. 16 sec. when the auto flash | TTL Multi-Sensor for Digital SLR $B-50DX is not in use. pin D SA PS Backside indications | Light-condensing paint is applied to the characters and Di Standard TTL Flash for Digital SLR symbois. nm Manual fash Dimensions (W x H x D) | Approx. 63 x 107 x 105 mm (2.5 x 4.2 x 4.1 in) Weight (uithout batteñes) | Approx. 235g (8.3 oz) Two CR123A or DL123A type 3V lithium batteries. Fight (thout batteries) | Approx. 2369 (8.3 oz) Accessories supplied] Soft Case SS-50, Infrared Filter SW-OIR 71

SB-50DX (E) 02.12.9 2:33 PM

1/300 TTL High-Speed Sync.

A AF-Assist Illuminator . Angle of coverage …

Aperture-Priority Auto exposure mode.

Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor ..

Auto Slave Flash mode Auto wireless multiple flash.

Bounce flash photography.

Bounce-flash operation with double flash

Bounce-flash operation with single flash

C Center-Weighted Fill-Flash for Digital SLR. 25,

Center-Weighted/Spot Fill-Flash….25, 26 Center-Weighted Metering .… Close-up flash photography Combined guide number . CPU Nikkor lens...

E Equations including guide number ….33 Exposure compensation Exposure meter

Exposure metering system .

F Flash output level compensation … Flash shooting distance range. Flash mode. Flash sync mod

G Guide number G-type Nikkor lens

Infrared remote commander …

L LCD illuminator. Light condensing paint.

Manual exposure mode Manual flash mode.

Manual Slave Flash mode Manual wireless multiple flas Master flash unit. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash Matrix Metering Monitor Pre-Flashes . Multiple flash photography Multi-Sensor Balanced Fil-Flash .

Multi-Sensor Balanced Fil-Flash for Digital SLR... 2

N Non-CPU Nikkor lens.

Standard TTL flash for Digital SLR.

25, 26 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash for 25,27

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.