Nikon SB 500 v3 User's Manual
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User's Manual (with Warranty)
Speedlight
SB-500
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About the SB-500 and This Users Manual Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Speedlight SB-500. To get the most out of your Speedlight, please read this users manual thoroughly before use.
How to find what you are looking for
i Table of contents (0A-10) You can search by item, such as operation method, flash control mode or function.
i Q&A index (0A-8) You can search according to objective without knowing the specific name or term of an item.
i Index (0H-21) 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 for the first time, read the safety instructions in For Your Safety. (0A-13A-17)
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Included items Check that all items listed below are included with the SB-500. If any items are missing, inform the store where the SB-500 was purchased or the seller immediately.
Speedlight Stand AS-23 Users manual (this manual) Soft Case SS-DC2 Warranty (printed on the back
cover of this manual)
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SB-500Speedlight Stand AS-23
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About the SB-500 and This Users Manual
About the SB-500 The SB-500 is a light and compact Speedlight compatible with Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) with a guide number of 24/78.7 (ISO 100, m/ft). The SB-500 works as both a master flash unit and a remote flash unit in wireless multiple flash-unit photography. The SB-500s LED light, which has a maximum output level of approximately 100 lx at 1 m (3.3 ft), provides illumination for photography and additional lighting for movie recording.
CLS-compatible cameras
Nikon digital SLR (Nikon FX/DX format) cameras (except D1 series and D100), F6, CLS-compatible COOLPIX cameras (0G-1)
The SB-500 can be used as a master flash unit only when mounted on cameras compatible with its master flash capabilities (D810A, D810, D750, D7200, D5500, etc.)
The SB-500s LED light is designed for photography and movie recording. Do not use it for other purposes.
About this users manual This manual has been compiled with the assumption that the SB-500 will be used in combination with a camera compatible with CLS and a CPU lens (0A-5). To get the most out of your Speedlight, please read this users manual thoroughly before use. For use with COOLPIX cameras compatible with i-TTL flash control (P5100,
P5000, E8800, E8700, E8400), see For Use with COOLPIX Cameras. (0G-1)
For camera functions and settings, see the camera users manual.
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v Describes a point to which you should pay particular attention in order to avoid Speedlight malfunctions or mistakes.
t Includes information or tips to make Speedlight use easier.
0 Reference to other pages in this manual
Icons used in this manual
t Tips on identifying CPU NIKKOR lenses CPU lenses have CPU contacts.
The SB-500 cannot be used with IX-Nikkor lenses.
CPU contacts
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About the SB-500 and This Users Manual
Terminology
Nikon Creative Lighting System ( CLS): a lighting system that enables flash photography functions listed below with improved communication between Nikon Speedlights and cameras i-TTL flash control/Advanced Wireless Lighting/Modeling flash/ FV lock/Flash (LED Light) Color Information Communication/ Auto FP high-speed sync
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)
Effective flash output distance: flash-to-subject distance with correctly adjusted flash output
Effective flash output distance range: range of effective flash output distance
Flash exposure compensation: intentional flash output change to obtain the desired subject brightness
i-TTL flash control: flash control mode in which the Speedlight fires monitor pre-flashes and the camera measures the reflected light and controls the Speedlight flash output
Monitor pre-flashes: a series of flashes emitted for a very short time before the actual firing that enables the camera to measure the light reflected on a subject
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i-TTL balanced fill-flash: i-TTL flash control type in which flash output level is adjusted to well-balanced exposure of the main subject and background
Standard i-TTL flash: i-TTL flash control type in which flash output level is adjusted to the correct exposure of the main subject regardless of background brightness
Manual flash control: flash control mode in which the flash output level and aperture are manually set to obtain the desired exposure
Wireless multiple flash-unit photography: flash photography with multiple wireless flash units 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
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Q&A Index
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You can search for specific explanations according to objective.
Flash photography 1 Using the SB-500 mounted on a cameras accessory shoe
Question Key phrase 0
Which flash control mode can I take pictures with?
Flash control modes C-1
How can I take pictures in the simplest way?
Basic operations B-9
How can I take pictures with soft shadows cast on a wall?
Bounce flash operation F-2
How can I confirm lighting conditions? Modeling flash F-7
How can I take pictures of both the subject and background at night?
Slow sync F-13
How can I take pictures without the subjects eyes appearing red?
Red-eye reduction F-13
How can I use the SB-500 with a COOLPIX camera?
COOLPIX camera G-1
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LED light photography and movie recording Using the LED light
Question Key phrase 0
What are the features of the LED light? LED light D-1
How can I use the LED light? Using the LED light D-3
Flash photography 2 Using the wireless SB-500
Question Key phrase 0
How do I take pictures using multiple flash units?
Advanced Wireless Lighting
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How do I take pictures with the SB-500 and a COOLPIX camera compatible with wireless multiple flash-unit photography?
COOLPIX cameras compatible with CLS
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Table of Contents
A Preparation
About the SB-500 and This Users Manual ........................ A-2 Q&A Index ....................................................................... A-8 For Your Safety .............................................................. A-13 Check before Use .......................................................... A-18
B Operation
Speedlight Parts ................................................................B-1 Notes on Continuous Use .................................................B-7 Basic Operations ..............................................................B-9
C Flash Control Modes
i-TTL Flash Control ........................................................... C-1 Manual Flash Control ....................................................... C-3
D LED Light
Features of LED Light ....................................................... D-1 Using the LED Light ......................................................... D-3
E Wireless Multiple Flash-unit Photography
SB-500 Wireless Multiple Flash-unit Photography Setup ....E-1 SB-500 Wireless Multiple Flash-unit Photography
Functions .....................................................................E-3 Advanced Wireless Lighting ..............................................E-5 Remote Flash Units ...........................................................E-7 Checking Status in Wireless Multiple Flash-unit
Photography ..............................................................E-10
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F Functions
Bounce Flash Operation .................................................... F-2 Flash Photography Support Functions ................................ F-7
Test firing Modeling flash Standby function Thermal cut-out
Functions to Be Set on the Camera ................................. F-12 Auto FP High-speed sync Flash value lock (FV lock) Slow sync Red-eye reduction Rear-curtain sync Exposure compensation/Flash exposure compensation
G For Use with COOLPIX Cameras ...................... G-1
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Table of Contents
H Tips on Speedlight Care and Reference
Information Troubleshooting ............................................................... H-1 Guide Number, Aperture and Flash-to-subject Distance .... H-5 Tips on Speedlight Care ................................................... H-6 Notes on Batteries............................................................ H-8 Updating Firmware ........................................................ H-10 Optional Accessories ...................................................... H-11 Specifications ................................................................. H-13 Index ............................................................................. H-21 Warranty Terms - NIKON WORLDWIDE SERVICE
WARRANTY .............................................................. H-27
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For Your Safety To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or others, read the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equipment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them.
This icon marks warnings and information that should be read before using this Nikon product to prevent possible injury.
WARNINGS Turn off in the event of malfunction. Should you notice
smoke or an unusual smell coming from the product, remove the batteries immediately, taking care to avoid burns. Continued operation could result in injury. After removing the power source, take the product to a Nikon-authorized service representative for inspection.
Do not disassemble or subject to powerful physical shocks. Touching the products internal parts could result in injury. Repairs should be performed only by qualified technicians. Should the product break open as the result of a fall or other accident, take it to a Nikon-authorized service representative for inspection, after disconnecting the product from the camera and/or removing the batteries.
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For Your Safety
Keep dry. Do not immerse in or expose to water or rain. Failure to observe this precaution could result in fire or electric shock.
Do not handle with wet hands. Failure to observe this precaution could result in electric shock.
Do not use in the presence of flammable gas or dust. Use of electronic equipment in the presence of flammable gas or dust could result in explosion or fire.
Keep out of reach of children. Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury.
Do not clean with organic solvents such as paint thinner or benzene, spray with insecticide, or store with naphtha or camphor moth balls. Failure to observe this precaution could damage or discolor the products plastic parts.
Observe caution when handling batteries. Batteries may leak, overheat, or rupture if improperly handled. When handling batteries for use in this product, follow all instructions and warnings printed on or included with the batteries and observe the following precautions:
Do not combine old and new batteries or batteries of different makes or types.
Do not attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries. When recharging Ni-MH batteries, follow instructions and use compatible chargers only.
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Insert batteries in the correct orientation. Batteries may become hot if the flash is fired multiple times in
quick succession. When removing the batteries, take precaution to avoid burns.
Do not short or disassemble batteries or attempt to remove or otherwise damage the battery insulation or casing.
Do not expose to flame or excessive heat, immerse in or expose to water, or subject to physical force.
Do not transport or store with metal objects such as necklaces or hairpins.
Batteries are prone to leakage when fully discharged. To avoid damage to the product, be sure to remove the batteries when no charge remains or if the product will not be used for an extended period.
Discontinue use immediately should you notice any change in the batteries, such as discoloration or deformation.
If liquid from damaged batteries comes in contact with clothing, eyes or skin, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
Dispose of used batteries in accord with local regulations. Prior to disposal, insulate the terminals with tape. Fire, overheating or rupture may result should metal objects come into contact with the terminals.
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For Your Safety
Observe caution when using the flash
Using a flash in close contact with the skin or other objects could cause burns.
Using the flash close to subjects eyes could cause temporary visual impairment. Stay at least 1 m (3.3 ft) from the subject when using the flash.
Do not aim the flash at the operator of a motor vehicle. Failure to observe this precaution could result in accidents.
Observe caution when using the LED light
Using the LED light in close contact with the skin or other objects could cause burns.
Looking directly at the LED light or shining it directly in subjects eyes (particularly those of infant) could cause temporary visual impairment. Keep the light at least 1 m (3.3 ft) from the subject.
Do not aim the LED light at the operator of a motor vehicle. Failure to observe this precaution could result in accidents.
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Notice for Customers in Canada CAN ICES-3 (B) / NMB-3 (B)
Notice for customers in Europe This symbol indicates that electrical and electronic equipment 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.
Separate collection and recycling helps conserve natural resources and prevent negative consequences for human health and the environment that might result from incorrect disposal.
For more information, contact the retailer or the local authorities in charge of waste management.
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Check before Use
Tips on using the Speedlight
Take trial shots Take trial shots before photographing important occasions such as weddings or graduations.
Have Nikon spot-check your Speedlight regularly Nikon recommends that you have your Speedlight serviced by an authorized dealer or service center at least once every 2 years.
Use your Speedlight with Nikon equipment The Nikon Speedlight SB-500s performance has been optimized for use with Nikon brand cameras/accessories including lenses. Cameras/ accessories made by other manufacturers may not meet Nikons criteria for specifications, and incompatible cameras/accessories could damage the SB-500s components. Nikon cannot guarantee the SB-500s performance when used with non-Nikon products.
A collection of example photos A collection of example photos provides an overview of the SB-500s flash photography capabilities with example images. To download the PDF file, access the link below and choose Speedlights from the Digital SLR Cameras category, then go to the SB-500.
http://nikonimglib.com/manual/
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Life-long learning As part of Nikons 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 Africa:
http://www.europe-nikon.com/support/
For users in Asia, Oceania and the Middle East:
http://www.nikon-asia.com/
Visit these sites to keep up to date with the latest product information, tips, answers to frequently-asked questions (FAQs) and general advice on digital imaging and photography. Additional information may be available from the Nikon representative in your area. See the URL below for contact information:
http://imaging.nikon.com/
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OperationB
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SPEEDLIGHT S B-500
Speedlight Parts
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1 Flash head 2 LED light (0D-1) 3 Light sensor window for wireless remote flash (0E-7) 4 Battery chamber cover 5 Locking pin 6 Accessory shoe contacts 7 Mounting foot 8 Flash panel
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Speedlight Parts
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10 Flash head rotating angle scale (0F-3) 11 Flash-ready indicator (0B-14, E-10) 12 Mounting foot lock lever (0B-12)
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Speedlight Parts
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: Press and hold down to turn the LED light on and off.
: Press briefly to change LED light output level.
14 LED light output level indicator lamps (0D-4) Indicate LED light output level
15 Mode indicator lamps Indicate flash control mode TTL: i-TTL flash control M: Manual flash control CMD: Commander mode
16 Test firing button (0F-7) Controls test firing
17 Power switch Rotate to turn power on
and off.
Set the index to choose the function to be used.
: Flash (0B-14, C-3, E-5) : LED light (0D-3)
A: Remote mode group A (0E-6)
B: Remote mode group B (0E-6)
18 Lock release (0D-3, E-6) Rotate the power switch while pressing this button to switch between [ ], [ ] and [A].
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Notes on Continuous Use
Notes on continuous flash firing
To prevent the SB-500 from overheating, allow it to cool down for at least 10 minutes after the number of firings indicated below.
Flash control mode Firing limit
i-TTL flash control Manual flash control (output volume: M 1/1, M 1/2)
Up to 15 times
Manual flash control (output volume: M 1/4M 1/128) Up to 40 times
When continuous flash firing is repeated in quick succession, the internal safety function extends the recycling time.
If flash firing continues, it may be temporarily suspended. The internal safety function is deactivated and flash firing becomes available after cooling down for several minutes. (0F-9)
The condition in which the internal safety function is activated differs depending on the SB-500 output level and the ambient temperature.
The condition in which the internal safety function is deactivated differs depending on the ambient temperature.
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Notes on LED light operation duration
The internal safety function automatically lowers the LED light output level by 1 level when the LED light is used for an extended period of time. (0F-11)
If the LED light is used for a longer period, the internal safety function turns the LED light off. The internal safety function is deactivated and the LED light becomes available after cooling down for several minutes. (0F-9)
The condition in which the internal safety function is activated differs depending on the LED light output level and the ambient temperature.
The condition in which the internal safety function is deactivated differs depending on the ambient temperature.
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This section covers basic procedures in i-TTL flash control in combination with a CLS-compatible camera.
STEP 1 Inserting the batteries
Slide the battery chamber cover open.
Insert the batteries following the [+] and [] marks.
Close the battery chamber cover.
Basic Operations
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Suitable batteries Replace both batteries at the same time using fresh batteries or fully-charged rechargeable batteries of the same brand from any of the following types. Do not mix old and new batteries or batteries of different types or makes.
1.5 V LR6 (AA-size) alkaline battery
1.2 V HR6 (AA-size) rechargeable Ni-MH battery
For minimum recycling time and number of flashes for each battery type, refer to Specifications. (0H-20)
Alkaline battery performance may vary greatly depending on the manufacturer.
1.5 V R6 (AA-size) carbon-zinc batteries are not recommended.
v Additional precautions regarding batteries Read and follow battery cautions on For Your Safety. (0A-13
A-17) Be sure to read and follow the warnings for the battery on the
section, Notes on Batteries (0H-8), before using the battery.
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Basic Operations
Replacing/recharging batteries Refer to the following table to determine when to replace batteries with fresh ones or recharge batteries according to how long the flash- ready indicator takes to light up after turning the SB-500 on or flash firing.
1.5 V LR6 (AA-size) alkaline battery 20 sec. or more
1.2 V HR6 (AA-size) rechargeable Ni-MH battery
15 sec. or more
Low battery power indication
When battery power is low, the flash-ready indicator flashes repeatedly twice per sec. for approximately 40 sec. Replace or recharge batteries.
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STEP 2 Attaching the SB-500 to the camera
Make sure the SB-500 and the camera body are turned off. Make sure the mounting foot lock lever is on the left. Slide the SB-500s mounting foot into the cameras accessory shoe. Turn the mounting foot lock lever to LOCK.
v Lock the Speedlight in place
Turn the mounting foot lock lever clockwise until it clicks into place pointing to LOCK.
v Cameras with auto pop-up flash units Turn the SB-500 on when it is mounted on a camera with a built-in, auto pop-up flash unit. When the SB-500 is turned off, the cameras built-in flash may pop-up automatically and strike the SB-500. It is recommended to detach the SB-500 from the camera when not in use.
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Basic Operations
Detaching the SB-500 from the camera
Make sure the SB-500 and the camera body are turned off, turn the mounting foot lock lever 90 to the left, and then slide the SB-500s mounting foot from the cameras accessory shoe.
If the SB-500s mounting foot cannot be removed from the cameras accessory shoe, turn the mounting foot lock lever 90 to the left again, and slide the SB-500 slowly out.
Do not forcibly remove the SB-500.
STEP 3 Adjusting the flash head Adjust the flash head to the forward-facing position.
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STEP 4 Turning the power on
Turn the camera on.
Set the SB-500s power switch to [ ]. Mode indicator lamp [TTL]
comes on.
STEP 5 Taking a picture Make sure that the flash- ready indicator on the SB-500 or in the cameras viewfinder is on, and then shoot.
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Flash Control ModesC The SB-500 has 2 flash control modesmanual flash control and i-TTL flash control. Flash control modes cannot be selected on the SB-500. The setting
of the camera on which the SB-500 is mounted automatically applies.
i-TTL Flash Control Information obtained by monitor pre-flashes and exposure control information is integrated by the camera to automatically adjust flash output levels. To take pictures using the SB-500 set in i-TTL flash control, see
Basic Operations. (0B-9) Either the i-TTL balanced fill-flash or the standard i-TTL flash option
is available depending on the camera settings. i-TTL flash control options cannot be selected on the SB-500.
i-TTL balanced fill-flash The flash output level is automatically adjusted for well-balanced exposure of the main subject and background.
Standard i-TTL flash The main subject is correctly exposed regardless of background brightness. This is useful when you want to highlight the main subject.
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t Cameras metering mode and i-TTL flash control When the cameras metering mode is changed to spot metering
while i-TTL balanced fill-flash is in use, the i-TTL flash control automatically changes to the standard i-TTL flash.
The i-TTL flash control automatically changes to i-TTL balanced fill-flash, after changing the cameras metering mode from spot metering to other metering modes.
v When insufficient flash output for correct exposure is indicated
When the flash-ready indicators on the SB-500 and in the cameras viewfinder flash slowly for approximately 3 sec. after firing, underexposure due to insufficient flash output may have occurred.
To compensate, use a wider aperture (smaller f-number) or higher ISO sensitivity, or move the flash unit closer to the subject and reshoot.
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Manual Flash Control When the SB-500 is mounted on a camera, manual setting of flash output level can be enabled by selecting [Manual] under [Optional flash] from the camera menu. Monitor pre-flash and the indication of insufficient flash output for
correct exposure are not available in manual flash control. Manual flash control is not available with D3 series, D2 series, D200,
D80, D70 series, D50 and F6 cameras.
Taking a picture in manual flash control
Set the SB-500s power switch to [ ].
Set the flash output level with the camera. For details, see the camera users
manual. Mode indicator lamp [M] comes
on when the setting is made with the camera.
Confirm that the flash- ready indicator is on, and then shoot.
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LED LightD Features of LED Light
The SB-500 is equipped with an LED light that has various features, as detailed below.
Continuous light that enhances your photography In contrast to a flash light, the LED light is a continuous light source. You can check the lighting effects in real time with live view and so achieve your desired composition easily. The LED light is also suitable for additional illumination for recording movies.
Soft light suitable for close-up photography Control of glare on the subject and shadows is a decisive factor in close- up photography, such as tabletop photography. The LED lights soft light beam with natural-looking color tone is suitable for close-up photography.
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Features of LED Light
Off-camera lighting that inspires creativity The LED lights soft light beam blends smoothly with natural light. You can illuminate your subject freely from any angle, height and distance by using the SB-500 off-camera.
Flexibility that makes use of multiple light source easier Multiple light sources expand your creative expression. Photography using multiple lights usually requires a certain amount of expertise to control lighting effects, but the SB-500 makes it easy. Simply use multiple SB-500s to achieve your intended results by checking lighting effects in real time with live view.
Use the provided Speedlight Stand AS-23 for stable positioning of the SB-500. Attach and detach the SB-500 to and from the AS-23 in the same way it is attached to/detached from the cameras accessory shoe.
When carrying the Speedlight Stand with the SB-500 attached, be sure to hold the SB-500 in your hand.
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Turning the LED light on
Set the SB-500s power switch to [ ]. Rotate the power switch while
pressing the lock release.
Press and hold the LED button until the LED light comes on.
Turning the LED light off
Press and hold the LED button until the LED light goes off. Turn the power off with the power
switch when not in use.
Using the LED Light
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Using the LED Light
Changing the LED light output level
Briefly press the LED button to change the LED light output level. The LED light output level changes
as shown in the diagram below. The output level is indicated by the LED light output level indicator lamps.
The LED light output level also can be changed when the LED light is off.
Holding the LED button switches the LED light on and off, and does not change the LED light output level.
Mid power Low power High power
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v Operation of the LED light when attached to the camera
LED light operation is manual only. The LED light does not synchronize with the camera shutter.
The LED light turns off when the SB-500 is in standby and does not turn on when the SB-500 comes on again.
v White balance settings Set the cameras white balance as shown in the table below for photography with the SB-500s LED light. See the camera users manual for white balance settings.
White balance settings by camera type
Camera White balance setting
Nikon digital SLR cameras with LED Light Color Information Communication D810A, D810, D750, D7200, D5500
Auto, Flash
Nikon digital SLR cameras without LED Light Color Information Communication
Auto*, Direct sunlight
Nikon digital SLR cameras D1, D50 Auto, Direct sunlight
COOLPIX cameras (0G-1) Auto, Direct sunlight
* Adjust the white balance setting depending on results.
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y Wireless Multiple Flash-unit PhotographyE SB-500 Wireless Multiple Flash- unit Photography Setup
The SB-500 is compatible with Advanced Wireless Lighting. The SB-500 can be used as a master flash unit only when mounted
on cameras compatible with its master flash capabilities (D810A, D810, D750, D7200, D5500, etc.)
SB-500 wireless multiple flash-unit photography compatibility
Camera Use as master
flash unit Use as remote
flash unit
With Speedlight commander mode (CMD)
Without Speedlight commander mode (CMD)
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Advanced Wireless Lighting
The master flash unit commands the remote flash units to fire monitor pre-flashes. The camera measures the reflected light. The camera controls flash firing.
Remote flash units (Group A)
Remote flash unit (Group B)
Master flash unit mounted on camera
The SB-500 mounted on the camera is the master flash unit. Other Speedlights placed in positions as illustrated function as remote flash units.
Up to 2 groups (A and B) of remote flash units can be set up. Single or several remote flash units can be allocated for 1 group. Channel 3 must be used when the SB-500 is used as a remote flash
unit. The camera settings apply to the flash control modes of the remote
and master flash units.
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y SB-500 Wireless Multiple Flash-unit Photography Functions
When used in commander mode
When used in remote mode
Flash control mode
i-TTL flash control Manual flash control Non-TTL auto flash
control*1
i-TTL flash control Manual flash control Repeating flash*2
Group Up to 2 groups (A and B)
Channel 4 channels*3 (14) 1 channel (3 only)
*1 Setting can be applied to group A or B. The setting cannot be applied to the master flash unit.
*2 See the master flash unit Speedlight (SB-910, SB-900, SB-800) or the Wireless Speedlight Commander (SU-800) users manual for details of repeating flash photography.
*3 One of 4 channels can be used. Remote flash units can be triggered by other master flash units. Use a different channel number if another photographer is using the same type of wireless remote flash setup close by.
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v Notes on canceling the flash of the master flash unit When the master flash unit flash function is canceled 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, tilt up the master flash units flash head.
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Using the SB-500 as a master flash unit
Set the SB-500s power switch to [ ].
Make settings with the camera. Choose [Commander mode]
under [Optional flash] from the camera menu and make settings.
For details, see the camera users manual.
Mode indicator lamp [CMD] comes on when settings are made with the camera.
Confirm that the flash- ready indicator is on, and then shoot.
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Using the SB-500 as a remote flash unit
Set the power switch to [A] or [B] to correspond with the remote flash group selected on the master flash unit. Rotate the power switch while
pressing the lock release. Set the remote flash channel to
3 on the master flash unit.
Confirm that the flash- ready indicator is on, and then shoot.
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Remote flash unit setting
The standby function is canceled when remote mode is set. Make sure that there is sufficient battery power.
Setting up the remote flash units
Position the remote flash units so that light from the master flash unit can reach the light sensor window for wireless remote flash of the remote flash units. This is particularly important when holding a remote flash unit in the hand.
Master flash unit mounted on camera
Remote flash unit (Group B)Remote flash units
(Group A)
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As a basic guide, the effective distance between the master and remote flash units is up to approximately 10 m (32 ft) in the forward-facing position, and approximately 7 m (22 ft) at both sides. These ranges vary slightly depending on ambient light.
There is no limit to the number of remote flash units that can be used together. However, when using many remote flash units, light may be unintentionally picked up by the light sensor of the master flash unit and interfere with correct functioning. Therefore, the number of remote flash units used for wireless multiple flash-unit photography should be limited to around 3 for 1 group.
Place all remote flash units in the same group close together and facing the same direction.
Less than approx. 10 m (32 ft)
Group B Less than approx. 7 m (22 ft)
Within 60
Master flash unit
Group A
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An obstacle between the master flash unit and remote flash units can interfere with transmission of data.
Take care not to let light from the remote flash units enter the camera lens.
Use the provided Speedlight Stand AS-23 for stable positioning of remote flash units. Attach and detach the SB-500 to and from the AS-23 in the same way it is attached to/detached from the cameras accessory shoe.
When carrying the Speedlight Stand with the SB-500 attached, be sure to hold the SB-500 in your hand.
Be sure to confirm the remote flash unit flash-ready indicator is on before photographing.
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Checking Status in Wireless Multiple Flash-unit Photography The flash-ready indicator on the SB-500 can be used to check the status during and after taking a picture in wireless multiple flash-unit photography.
Checking flash operation using the flash-ready indicator
Master flash unit
Remote flash unit Speedlight status
Lights up Lights up Ready to fire Goes out and light