Nikon sb-800 flash is state of the art
Pros:
Quality and state of the art
Cons:
pricey...but worth it.
The Bottom Line:
Versatile product that will do anything possible from a flash unit!
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
The Nikon sb-800 is a true professional flash unit. Paired with a digital Nikon SLR...it's unbeatable. The guide number is high at 125 with 100ASA metering. Shooting groups or from a distance is made a lot easier with this unit.
I've used a number of flashes professionally, and this one is easily my favorite...for now. If a better flash comes along...it would have to be a real showstopper!
The sb800 offers a wide range of automatic TTL shooting, manual over-ride, and basic guide number control. With a camera that can take advantage of the many features, you can literally just start changing camera controls and the flash "know" what you did and adjusts accordingly! Changed ASA settings? The sb800 already processed the change and is ready to fire.
It also offers off camera wireless remote shooting! The Nikon digital line can trigger the sb800 from a distance, allowing you to be very creative with lighting. Add a second flash (such as the sb600) and you have multiple off camera remote flash units,,,that can be set to automatic or manual settings. The results are astounding.
The basic sb800 kit comes with a remote flash stand(so you don't have to prop it up to use in that manner), a gel filter assortment, soft padded case, a small softbox-type diffuser, and an added battery extension pack(allows you to use 5 batteries instead of four for longer performance)!
The instruction manual is long and involved. If you are a casual shutterbug, you might find this one a bit intimidating if you intend to use all the features. However, if you simply want basic TTL shooting...just read the first section and start using it!
The hotshoe mount is metal and sturdy with a locking mechanism. Very solid feel. The unit goes into standby mode to save power and powers up instantly when you touch the camera shutter button. The LCD screen is large and bright...which is a big plus considering all the info presented.
The unit has full tilt function for bounce shots...horizontally and vertical! Few hotshoe mount flash units offer this feature. There's even a built-in white bounce card(a bit small, but great in a pinch).
The soft-dome attachment(included) is a great way to soften shadows even more than with regular bounce type lighting.
It's pricey...anywhere from $325-$400. However, if your career relies on properly exposing digital(or film) images...this one will pay for itself over time. It also saves you a lot of time from tweaking images in photoshop!
You can buy it cheaper online, but it might be a good idea to buy locally so you can drive to the dealer with questions about some of the features...and this unit has a lot of features involving menu choices and sub-menu settings.
Great choice for a state of the art flash.
