Macro Adapter Ring BR-2A, Auto Adapter Ring BR-6 Auto Adapter Ring BR-5 is also necessary between Macro Adapter Ring BR-2A and the lens when using a lens having a 62mm filter attachment size. Because Auto Adapter Ring BR-6 features automatic diaphragm control, using the optional Double Release AR-10 or Double Cable Releases AR-7/AR-4 speeds up shooting operation.
Firing both flash modules at the same time or firing either independently can be selected.
If the lock nut doesnt loosen easily, do not force it. Push the foot forward gently once in the direction of the white arrow and try loosening the lock nut again.
The brightness of the flash module can be reduced to approx. 1/4 flash output by using the built-in light reducer.
Be sure to set both flash modules to fire. Various illumination patterns where the brightness is different on the right and left sides of the subject is possible when the subject is 0.2m (0.7 ft.) or less from the main unit.
Turning the SB-29 on and off/ Standby function
Turning the power on and off
Attaching the main unit to the controller
Press the adapter ring mounting buttons on both sides to attach the main unit to the controller.
When attaching the lens directly to the camera body

SB-29 controller

1 Set the SB-29s power switch to ON or STBY position.
SB-29 main unit BR-2A BR-5 Camera Lens BR-6 52mm adapter ring

Nomenclature

Usable lenses and cameras

Usable lenses

The SB-29 is designed for use especially with Micro-Nikkor lenses to realize the maximum benefits of the flash unit. 5
Use the appropriate adapter ring when attaching the SB-29 to the lens. Note Other Nikkor lenses having a ring that rotates or moves forward or backward during AF operation may not autofocus correctly or may damage the lens or cameras autofocus mechanism due to the weight of the main unit. Therefore, do not perform autofocus operation, but use manual focus instead.
The standby function is activated if the power switch is set to STBY.

Keep pressing the adapter ring mounting buttons as you attach the main unit to the controller, then remove your fingers to secure it. The main unit can be rotated up to 90, allowing horizontal or vertical positioning of the flash modules. Note With certain lenses, the shadows cast by the front of the lens may appear on the subject if both modules are fired when set vertically. In this case, use the upper flash module only. Using the modeling illuminator, you can also check if there are shadows cast by the front of the lens before taking pictures. Refer to Checking the lighting effects before shooting. However, when looking through the viewfinder of cameras with less than 100% frame coverage, you may not see the shadows cast by the front of the lens even when using the modeling illuminator, because the area appearing on the film is greater than the viewfinder image.
2 Check that the ready-light comes on.
Set the lens focus ring to (infinity) and move the camera body back and forth to focus.
When using Nikon Bellows Focusing Attachment PB-6

Controller Main unit

Micro-Nikkor lenses providing maximum benefits
AF Micro-Nikkor 60mm f/2.8D provides autofocus operation when the Adapter Ring UR-3 (optional) is attached to the lens and the SB-29 main unit is attached to the UR-3. AF Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8D or 105mm f/2.8 provides autofocus operation when the SB-29 main unit is attached to the lens using the provided 62mm Adapter Ring (not 52mm). AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D IF or 200mm f/4 IF provides autofocus operation when the SB-29 main unit is attached to the lens using the provided 62mm Adapter Ring. AF Zoom Micro-Nikkor 70-180mm f/4.5-5.6D ED provides manual focus operation when the SB-29 main unit is attached to the lens using the provided 62mm Adapter Ring. Autofocus operation is not possible. Using the PC Micro-Nikkor 85mm f/2.8D set at the Tilt and/or Shift position is not recommended.
After the SB-29 is turned on, the ready-light lights up as soon as the SB-29 is recycled and ready to fire. When the SB-29 is not used, move the power switch to the OFF position to avoid turning the power on accidentally.

Camera

BR-2A BR-5

Standby function

With the power switch set to STBY position, if both the SB-29 and camera are not used for after approx. 80 seconds, the SB-29 shuts off automatically and the ready-light goes out to conserve battery power. To turn the SB-29 on again after it enters the standby mode:
Lightly press the cameras shutter release button; Press the SB-29s FLASH button once (in this case, the flash does not fire); or Set the power switch to the ON position.
Bellows Focusing Attachment PB-6
BR-6 52mm adapter SB-29 ring main unit

Controller

Main unit
Usable lenses with limited functions
Most Nikkor lenses having a 52mm, 62mm or 72mm filter attachment size These lenses are subject to vignetting:

AF Nikkors 20mm f/2.8D, 28mm f/1.4D, and AF Zoom-Nikkor 24-50mm f/3.3-4.5D (at the 24mm focal length) AF Zoom-Nikkor 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6D (at focal lengths of 24mm, 28mm, 35mm and 50mm) AF Zoom-Nikkor 28-70mm f/3.5-4.5D (around the 28mm focal length), AF Zoom-Nikkor 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5 (at the 28mm focal length) AF Zoom-Nikkor 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5D (at focal lengths of 28mm and 35mm) AF Zoom-Nikkor 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6D (at focal lengths of 28mm, 35mm and 50mm), AF Zoom-Nikkor 35-70mm f/2.8D (at the 35mm focal length)
The main unit cannot be attached to the Adapter Ring if the lens is in the reverse position with the PB-6 attached. Set the lens focus ring to (infinity).
The standby function cannot be used:
If the SB-29 is mounted on Nikon F3-Series cameras using TTL Flash Unit Coupler AS-17. If the SB-29 is mounted on Nikon New FM2, FM10 or FE10 cameras. If the SB-29 is mounted on Nikon FA or FE2 cameras and the shutter speed is set to M250 or B (bulb). If the SB-29 is mounted on Nikon FA or FE2 cameras when Motor Drive MD-12 is mounted. If the SB-29 is mounted on Nikon FG cameras and the shutter speed is set to M90 or B (bulb). In the above cases, set the SB-29s power switch to ON or OFF.

Accessories

52mm, 62mm, 72mm Adapter Rings Hard Case SS-29
Manual Zoom-Nikkor lenses
Because the adapter ring rotates while focusing, adjust the position of the SB-29s main unit after focusing.
Lenses attachable but virtually unusable
AF Nikkor lenses having a ring that rotates during AF operation.
Setting the controller and main unit
Check these settings on the SB-29 before shooting. Flash mode

Lenses not attachable

Most Nikkor lenses not having a 52mm, 62mm or 72mm filter attachment size
Setting both flash modules or either flash module
The SB-29 is equipped with two flash modules. Using the flash module selector, you have three options: 1) To fire both flash modules simultaneously; 2) To fire the left module only; or 3) To fire the right module only. This is convenient for taking close-up flash photographs when you want to emphasize the contrast between the highlight and shadow areas.

Usable cameras and available flash modes
Nikon cameras usable with the SB-29 for TTL and Manual flash operations
Usable camera F5, F100, F4-Series, F90X/N90s*, F90-Series/N90*, F70-Series/N70*, F60-Series/N60*, F50-Series/N50*, Pronea 600i/6i*, F-801s/N8008s*, F-801/N8008*, F-601/N6006*, F-601M/N6000*, F-401x/N5005* F-501/N2020**, F-301/N2000**, F3-Series*1, FA*2, FE2*2, FG*2, F-401s/N4004s*/*3, F-401/ N4004*/*3, New FM2*3, FM10*3, FE10*3 Available flash mode Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash (including Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash.) Manual Flash Standard TTL Flash Manual Flash Manual Flash only

Test firing

With the power switch set to ON or STBY, you can perform test firing to ensure that the SB-29 is working properly. Check that the ready-light comes on, then press the FLASH button.
Three flash modes TTL Auto Flash, Manual (Full) Flash or Manual (M1/4) Flashare available using the flash mode selector. The TTL Auto Flash mode is recommended, because determining the proper exposure in close-up flash is very difficult.
Manual M1/4 flash output Manual full flash output TTL auto flash mode
Aperture/reproduction ratio panel
01 AF assist illuminator lamp button 02 Modeling illuminator button 03 TTL multiple flash terminal (Remove the terminal cover from the terminal and turn it counterclockwise by 90 when using the TTL multiple flash terminal.) 04 Sync flash terminal 05 Light reducer 06 Flash modules 07 AF assist illuminator lamp 08 Flash mode indicator LED 09 Flash mode selector 10 Overexposure warning indicator LED 11 Power switch 12 Mounting foot 13 Hot shoe contacts 14 Mounting foot lock nut 15 Alignment indices
Battery chamber lid Ready-light FLASH button Flash module selector Firing both flash modules at the same time or either independently can be selected. Light reducer setting dial The ratio of the brightness of the right flash module to the left one (or vice versa) can be set to 1:4 using the built-in light reducer. Adapter ring mounting buttons Reproduction ratio scale (1:5 represents 1/5x.) ISO film speed scale Effective f-number (aperture) Focal length of lens in use Proper exposure range
Only right module fires Both modules fire Only left module fires

Light reducer

By using the built-in light reducer, intentional shadows can be created by changing the brightness of the right or left flash module (or upper or lower when the unit is positioned vertically). Other Speedlights connected to the TTL multiple flash terminal or sync terminal will fire as well.

Guide number

Guide numbers (at full flash output) in Manual Flash mode (m/ft)
ISO film speed For both flash modules For only one flash module 25 5.5/18 6/7.7/25 8.5/11/36 12/15.5/51 17/22/72 24/31/102 34/35/115 38/44/144 48/157
* Sold exclusively in the USA. ** Sold exclusively in the USA and Canada. *1 TTL Flash Unit Coupler AS-17 is required. *2 TTL Auto Flash operation is not possible with Nikon FA or FE2 cameras when the shutter speed is set to M250 or B (bulb), and with Nikon FG cameras when the shutter speed is set to M90 or B (bulb). *3 TTL Auto Flash operation is not possible with the Nikon F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004, New FM2, FM10 and FE10 cameras. Use Manual flash operation instead.
Adjustment factors for film speed other than ISO 100
ISO film speed Ratio of the left to the right = 1: 1/4 Ratio of the left to the right = 1/4: 1 The output of the flash module can be reduced to approx. 1/4 by using the built-in light reducer. Turn the light reducer setting dial all the way until it click stops. Be sure to set both flash modules to fire when using the light reducer. Factor 25 x0.x0.xx1.xx2.x3.x4

For your information

TTL Auto Flash mode (Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash or Standard TTL Flash) is automatically determined, according to your camera and lens combinations. You cannot select an appropriate flash mode on the SB-29. For details on available flash modes, read each cameras instruction manual.
Replacing or recharging the batteries (Checking battery power)
Replace or recharge the batteries if the ready-light takes the amount of time shown in the table to light up between flashes when the flash mode selector is set at M.
Type of batteries installed Zinc-carbon Alkaline-manganese Lithium NiCd (rechargeable) Ni-MH (rechargeable) Ready-light takes: More than 30 seconds to light up More than 10 seconds to light up More than 10 seconds to light up Recharge batteries Remedy Replace batteries
Multiply the guide numbers by the factors shown in the above table.
Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash
Based on the ambient light, the flash output is automatically controlled to keep both subject and background correctly exposed using the cameras Matrix Metering System.
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.

*1 With fresh batteries *2 Duration until the ready-light comes on after firing at full manual output. *3 Total number of flashes when fired at full manual output with an interval of 30 seconds between flashes. Number of flashes are greater in TTL Auto Flash and M1/4 flash output modes.

Flash mode selector

TTL, M, or M1/4 mode selectable

Ready-light

Lights up when SB-29 is recycled and ready to fire. Blinks for 3 seconds when flash fires at its maximum output, indicating light may have been insufficient (in TTL mode).
3 Determine an appropriate aperture by referring to the Aperture/reproduction
Set the aperture on the lens or camera.
ratio panel on the back of the SB-29 controller. (Refer to Determining a proper flash shooting distance range.)
Overexposure warning indicator LED
Lights up for approx. 4 sec. after shooting to indicate that the picture may have been overexposed.
come on before taking the 4 Wait for the SB-29s ready-lightintothe viewfinder of your camera. picture. You can also use the ready-light
If the ready-light on the SB-29 or in the viewfinder blinks for approx. 3 seconds after shooting, this indicates the light may have been insufficient for correct exposure. In this case, use a wider aperture (smaller f-number) and reshoot. If the SB-29s overexposure warning indicator LED lights up for approx. 4 seconds after shooting, this indicates the picture may have been overexposed. In this case, use a smaller aperture (larger f-number) and reshoot.
Aperture to set on the lens and effective f-number
Effective f-numbers of macro lenses such as Micro-Nikkor lenses vary and the brightness of images on the film decrease when the reproduction ratio increases. The relationship between the reproduction ratio and the effective f-number is: Fe = F (1 + M) where Fe = Effective f-number (actual lens speed) F = Aperture to set on the lens M = Reproduction ratio For example, to obtain a 1:1 (life-size) reproduction ratio at an aperture of f/8 set on the lens, Fe = 8 (1 + 1) = 16. The effective f-number is 16 which is two stops darker. Effective f-numbers are displayed on the SB-29s Aperture/reproduction ratio panel. To obtain the correct exposure in TTL auto flash operation, proceed as follows: The aperture value appearing on the LCD panel or in cameras viewfinder is the effective f-number when a Nikkor lens with a built-in CPU is mounted on the camera. When a Nikkor lens without a built-in CPU is mounted or no aperture value is displayed in the viewfinder calculate the effective f-number using the above equation after setting the aperture on the lens.

Built-in light reducer

Sets the ratio of the brightness of the right flash module to the left one (or vice versa) to 1:4.

FLASH button

Performs test firing for correct exposure determination. Can turn the SB-29 on again after the unit enters standby mode.

Flash duration (approx.)

At full flash output: 1/1400 sec. with both flash modules (1/1250 sec. with single flash module) At 1/4 flash output: 1/5500 sec. with both flash modules (1/3300 sec. with single flash module)
Refer to Optional accessories for sync or remote cords. Read each products instruction manual for details on connections.

Modeling illuminator

Lights up for approx. 3 sec. (when both modules are fired), if flash is completely recycled. Repeat firing at approx. 40 Hz.
Multiple flash operation using the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4:
TTL or Manual multiple flash operation is possible by using the cameras built-in Speedlight or a Speedlight mounted on the cameras hot shoe as the master flash unit, and one or more Speedlights mounted on Wireless Slave Flash Controllers SU-4 as the slave flash units. The SU-4s built-in light sensor not only detects when the master flash unit fires to trigger the slave flash unit, but also controls the flash duration of the slave flash unit in sync with the master flash unit. These Nikon Speedlights are usable: SB-29, SB-28, SB-27, SB-26, SB-25, SB-24, SB-23, SB-22s, SB-22, SB-20, SB-18, SB-16B, SB-15 Read the SU-4s instruction manual for more details.

Other features

Sync/multiple flash terminal provided

Dimensions (W x H x D)

Main unit: Approx. 119 x 133 x 28.5 mm (4.7 x 5.2 x 1.1 in.) Controller: Approx. 69 x 106.5 x 88.5 mm (2.7 x 4.2 x 3.5 in.)

Weight

Approx. 410g (14.5 oz.) without batteries
Determining a proper flash shooting distance range
Using the Aperture/reproduction ratio panel (with the lens in normal position)
Use the Aperture/reproduction ratio panel on the back of the SB-29 controller to determine usable apertures at the desired reproduction ratio. The proper apertures depend on the ISO film speed, lens focal length and the desired reproduction ratio. Note The figures on the panel are effective f-numbers. They are not apertures on the lens. (See Aperture to set on the lens and effective f-number.

Accessories supplied

3 Adapter Rings (52mm, 62mm, 72mm), Hard Case SS-29 All performance data is for operation at normal temperatures (20C/68F) Specifications and design are subject to change without notice.
TTL multiple flash operation

Manual Flash M Mode

Use Manual Flash M mode, if your camera does not feature TTL auto flash operation. Flash output levels of M and M1/4 can be selected. M: Flash fires at full output. M1/4: Flash fires at 1/4 of the full output.

To obtain the correct exposure at a reproduction ratio of less than 1:10, determine the aperture using the SB-29s guide number and the shooting distance. At a reproduction ratio of 1:10 or greater, it is difficult to obtain the correct exposure because the aperture and the effective f-number may differ. Note In close-up flash photography where exposures are often affected by the ambient light, its a good idea to take additional shots at various aperture settings. (Refer to Exposure compensation in close-up flash photography.)
the 1 Connect Cordmaster flash unit to the camera directly. Or use the TTL Remote SC-17/SC-24 instead. Connect the master flash unit to the slave flash unit(s). 2 Use one or more TTL Remote Cords SC-18/SC-19 for direct connection or use
these cords in combination with the TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10. Use the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 for remote control of one or more slave flash units in the TTL flash mode.
Reproduction ratio (1:5 represents 1/5x.) Film speed (ISO) Focal length of lens in use
For safe handling of the Speedlight

Warnings

Do not attempt to disassemble, repair, or modify the flash unit yourself, as it houses high-voltage circuitry that can cause an electric shock. Also, these action may cause the unit to malfunction, resulting in bodily injure to yourself. If the flash unit is dropped and damaged, do not touch any exposed interior metal parts, as it houses high-voltage circuitry that can cause an electric shock. Remove the batteries and take the Speedlight to your local Nikon dealer for repair.
Effective f-number (aperture)

Usable apertures

flash direction distance. 3 Set eachnote thatunit by considering its illuminationandinversely proportional to Please the brightness of flash is
the square of the distance between the flash unit and the subject when the same Speedlight models are used for both the master and slave flash units. For example, if the flash-to-subject distance is a reference unit of 1, the brightness will be one-half that when the subject is 1.4 times away, and onequarter when the subject is twice as far away.

Troubleshooting

Warning indicator Cause Reference/remedy Turning the SB-29 on and off Installing the batteries Replacing or recharging the batteries Standby function Clean the contacts or electrodes. Procedure 4 in TTL Auto Flash TTL mode Procedure 4 in TTL Auto Flash TTL mode Ready-light does not come on. Power switch is turned OFF. Batteries are not installed correctly. Battery power is weak. Standby function is in operation. Power is automatically turned off. Contacts in the battery chamber or battery electrodes are corroded. Ready-light blinks for approx. 3 sec. after shooting. Overexposure warning indicator LED lights up for approx. 4 sec. after shooting. Ready-light takes longer to light up. Subject may have been underexposed. Picture may have been overexposed.

The settings and scales on the Aperture/reproduction ratio panel are for use with AF MicroNikkors 60mm f/2.8D, 105mm f/2.8D, and 200mm f/4D IF-ED. If you use the AF Zoom Micro-Nikkor 70-180mm f/4.5-5.6D ED, determine the appropriate figures on the panel depending on a focal length set on the lens. Apply this to other lenses. For example, at a 1:5 reproduction ratio with ISO 100 film and the AF Micro-Nikkor 60mm lens, the usable apertures are from f/4 to f/32.
When an over- or underexposure warning indication appears (with the lens in reverse position, or when the reproduction ratio is greater than life-size.)
In the above case, the correct exposure cannot be obtained using the Aperture/ reproduction ratio panel. Determine the usable aperture by referring to the following Maximum aperture. If the overexposure warning indication appears, use a smaller aperture (larger f-number) or if the underexposure warning indication appears, use a larger aperture (smaller f-number) and reshoot. f/stop (maximum aperture*1) = Coefficient / flash-to-subject distance (m/ft)
ISO film speed 100 or below 500 or more
1 Set the flash mode selector to M1/4 or M. 2 Adjust your camera. mode to Aperture-priority auto A or Manual M. Set your cameras exposure
Set your cameras metering system to any setting. The shutter speed is automatically set to the flash sync speed, except Nikon New FM2 and FM10 cameras. Or you can intentionally set the shutter speed to one slower than the flash sync speed. For Nikon New FM2 and FM10 cameras, manually set the shutter speed to the flash sync shutter speed or slower.
4 Turn on all flash units and make sure their standby functions are not activated. 5 Set the flash mode on all flash units to TTL. 6 Follow the same procedures as in normal TTL Auto Flash TTL mode.
Note TTL multiple flash operation is not possible with Nikon New FM2, FM10 and FE10 cameras. In this case, perform manual multiple flash operation using the TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 or Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4.
If you detect heat, smoke, or the smell of burning coming from the Speedlight, stop operation immediately and turn the flash unit off. Let the flash unit cool off before removing the batteries. Then take the flash unit to your local Nikon dealer for repair. The SB-29 should not be exposed to rain or saltwater, as this may result in an electric shock or cause the unit to catch on fire. Also never touch the flash unit with wet hands. Do not operate the flash unit in an environment containing a combustible gas, as this may cause the unit to catch on fire or result in an explosion. Keep batteries out of the reach of children. If a battery is accidentally swallowed, call a doctor immediately. When replacing batteries, replace all four at the same time. Also, do not mix battery types or brands or use old with new batteries. Otherwise, the batteries may catch on fire or explode, due the possible leakage of corrosive liquids. In the event that corrosive liquids do seep from the batteries, avoid touching the liquids. Certain types of batteries contain strong alkaline liquids which can cause chemical burns. If the alkaline liquids stick to your skin or clothes, wash immediately with running water.

Manual multiple flash operation

(m/ft)

on lens aperture ring. 3 Set athe appropriate aperture thanthe camera orequation to determine the At reproduction ratio of less 1:10, use this
correct aperture: f/stop (aperture) = guide number / flash-to-subject distance (m) At a reproduction ratio of 1:10 or greater, the above equation is not recommended as it is difficult to obtain the correct aperture. With Micro-Nikkor lenses mounted on the camera, refer to the Aperture/ reproduction ratio panel. For example, when shooting with an AF Micro-Nikkor 60mm f/2.8D lens using ISO 100 film, determine an appropriate aperture by referring to the Aperture/ reproduction ratio panel. At a 1:5 reproduction ratio, the effective f-numbers for the correct exposure are f/32 at Manual (full) and f/16 at Manual (M1/4) flash output. When a Nikkor lens with a built-in CPU is mounted on the camera and when you set the aperture in the cameras viewfinder or on the LCD panel, the aperture value appearing on the LCD panel or in cameras viewfinder is the effective f-number. Set this value on the camera. When a Nikkor lens without a built-in CPU is mounted or no aperture value is displayed in the viewfinder, calculate the effective f-number using the aperture set on the lens according to the reproduction ratio, then determine an appropriate aperture by referring to the Aperture/ reproduction ratio panel. For example: At a 1:10 reproduction ratio, the effective f-number is approx. 1/3 of an f/stop smaller than the aperture set on the lens. At a 1:5 reproduction ratio, the effective f-number is approx. 1/2 of an f/stop smaller than the aperture set on the lens. At a 1:3 reproduction ratio, the effective f-number is approx. 2/3 to 1 f/stop smaller than the aperture set on the lens. At a 1:1 reproduction ratio, the effective f-number is approx. 2 f/stops smaller than the aperture set on the lens.
1 Attach the SB-29 to the cameras accessory shoe. the SB-29 flash terminal of the slave flash unit(s). 2 Connect same cordsto the sync TTL multiple flash operation, or Sync Cords Use the as used for
SC-11 or SC-15. Use the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 for remote control of one or more slave flash units in the Manual flash mode.
Coefficient 2/6.6 4/13 5.6/18 *1 The aperture where overexposed pictures may result in TTL auto flash operation if a larger aperture (smaller f-number) than that is used. For example, when shooting a subject at a distance of 0.25m (0.82 ft.) using ISO 100 film, the correct aperture is: f/stop = 2 (coefficient) / 0.25 (m) (flash-to-subject distance) = 8 f/stop = 6.6 (coefficient) / 0.82 (ft) (flash-to-subject distance) = approx. 8 From the above equation, use an aperture smaller than the f/8 (larger f-number) in the TTL mode.

Batteries are nearly exhausted. Replacing or recharging the batteries Lithium batteries become hot by repeated use Allow longer recycling time between which activates their safety circuit, cutting off flashes or wait until the batteries cool off. power. Flash mode selector is set to M1/4 or M, and cameras exposure mode is set to Programmed auto or Shutter-priority auto mode. Manual Flash M mode
flash considering its direction and distance. 3 Set eachnote in unit byabove regarding the relationship between brightens of flash (See the item 3
illumination and distance.)
Shutter cannot be released even when the ready-light lights up.

Caution

Do not fire the flash directly into a persons eyes at close range as this may cause temporary blindness.
Exposure compensation in close-up flash photography
In close-up flash photography, its recommended to take additional shots with varying exposures to ensure getting the correct exposure.
Plus compensation Minus compensation
4 Turn on all flash units and make sure their standby functions are not activated. 5 Set the flash mode of all the flash units to Manual M. 6 Follow the same procedures as in normal Manual flash M mode.
Checking the lighting effects before shooting
Using the modeling illuminator, you can check how the subject will be illuminated and see how the shadows will look before actually taking pictures. Set the SB-29 and your camera, then focus on the subject.

Tips on Speedlight care

Use a blower brush to remove dirt and dust from the SB-29 and clean it with a soft, clean cloth. Never use commercial cleaners containing thinner or benzene as they could damage its plastic parts. When storing the SB-29 for two weeks or longer, remove the batteries to prevent battery leakage. Also once a month, insert fresh batteries and fire the unit several times to reform its capacitor and keep the SB-29 in top working order. Make sure to turn the power off before removing the batteries. Keep the SB-29 away from chemicals such as camphor or naphthalene. Also avoid exposing it to magnetic waves from TVs or radios. Never store the SB-29 in the truck or glove compartment of a vehicle during the summer. Also, do not place it in front of a heater.
Keep the SB-29 out of the reach of children. This will prevent them from swallowing accessories, batteries, or receiving an electric shock. Do not throw used batteries into a fire. Do not short circuit, disassemble, or heat batteries; this may cause them to explode or catch on fire. Always follow the warning instructions printed on batteries to prevent them from becoming hot, leaking corrosive liquids, catching on fire, or exploding. When recharging NiCd or Ni-MH batteries, be sure to use the battery charger specified by the battery maker and read the instructions thoroughly. Do not recharge NiCd or Ni-MH batteries with their terminals reversed in the charger or before the batteries have cooled off sufficiently, as this may cause them to leak corrosive liquids, become hot, catch on fire, or explode. Non-rechargeable batteries such as zinc-carbon, alkaline-manganese and lithium batteries should never be charged in a battery charger as they may become hot, catch on fire, explode or leak corrosive liquids. Always use the batteries specified in this instruction manual. Using other batteries may cause them to become hot or catch on fire.

Notes on Batteries

Battery power tends to weaken as the temperature drops. At low temperatures, the number of flashes decrease and recycling time is longer. NiCd, Ni-MH and lithium batteries feature greater efficiency at low temperatures, usable as low as 20C (4F). Alkaline-manganese and zinc-carbon batteries are not recommended as their performance become noticeably degraded at 10C (14F) for alkaline-manganese and 0C (32F) for zinccarbon batteries. Please note that battery performance may differ from brand to brand, due to modifications or improvements in performance.
Exposure compensation in TTL Auto Flash TTL mode
Make exposure compensation on the camera to match the shooting situation. Refer to your cameras instruction manual for details on how to make exposure compensation. When shooting a subject containing highly reflective surfaces, use some plus compensation. When the background is very dark, or the subject is in deep shadow, use some minus compensation. Normally you can compensate exposures within a range of 2 EV to +1 EV. When minus compensation is made, the overexposure warning indicator LED may light up. In this case, set a smaller aperture (larger f-number) on the lens, then make minus compensation again.
4 Wait for the SB-29s ready-light to come on before taking the picture.
1 ready-light to come on before pressing the 2 Wait for thebutton as you look through the viewfinder. modeling illuminator
Using lithium batteries (rated voltage: 1.5V)
Lithium batteries incorporate internal safety switches. When they become hot, their safety circuits are activated, cutting off power. Battery power will recover if you stop using them and allow them to return to normal temperatures.
Using rechargeable NiCd and Ni-MH batteries
The modeling illuminator will not light up unless the ready-light is on. While the modeling illuminator button is pressed, the modeling illuminator lights upfor a maximum of approx. 3 seconds (when both modules are fired), if the flash is completely recycled. Of course, the duration varies if the flash is not completely recycled.
Exposure compensation in Manual M mode
Intentionally change the aperture set on the camera or lens aperture ring. When you want an overexposed picture, set a wider aperture (smaller f-number). For an underexposed picture, use a smaller aperture (larger f-number).

Overcharging and excessive use may shorten battery life. Always make certain to turn the SB-29 off when not in use. Because flash consumes a large amount of battery power, rechargeable batteries may not operate properly before reaching the end of their stated life-span or the number of charging/discharging as specified by the battery manufacturer.