Repeating Flash

When used with any Nikon SLR, the SB-26 is capable of strobo-effect multiple flash exposure at up to 160 flash per frame; it also allows control of the amount of flash light output. Operation becomes simple once you learn how to match the number and speed of flash to your desired shutter speed. For details, see Repeating Flash G Mode For Multiple Exposure, pages 91 to 96.
SB-26 Feature Comparison: Flash Operations Available with Your Camera
For details regarding your camera, see pages: 1) 33 to 41. 2) 42 to 49. 3) 50 to 58. 4) 59 to 64. 5) 65 to 70. 6) 71 to 76. 7) 77 to 80. TTL Auto Flash 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash Center-Weighted Fill-Flash Spot Fill-Flash Programmed TTL Auto Flash Standard TTL Flash Non-TTL Auto Flash Manual Flash Repeating Flash (strobo effect) FP High-Speed Sync Flash Red-Eye Reduction Control Rear-Curtain Sync Flash Flash Exposure Compensation Open Flash Button (test firing) Built-in Wide Flash Adapter Zoom-Lock Capability AF Assist LED Standby Position (power switch) Bounce Flash (built-in diffuser card) Close-up Photography (TTL Auto Flash) Multiple Flash Photography
pa s ge 4s s 50 N N N 00 s es/ es/ s es/ N4 V 90 ri ri ie 8 /N 6 /N ri /N 4 s/ s ies res /N Se Se er 1/N 1s 1/N 1M Se 1x 1/N 1/N 1/N 01 no er ei 0 0X 90- 70- 4-S -80 -80 -60 -60 50- -40 -50 -30 -40 F-4 A E2 G iko 3-S 2-S M2 G2 F5 F9 F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F N F F F F
Repeating flash mode offers strobo effect, multiple exposure on a single frame.

126 136

Page 18

Chapter 2

Before Flash Shooting

Page 20

WARNING TO AVOID INJURY
DO NOT FIRE FLASH NEAR THE EYES: Firing the flash light very close to any persons eyes can injure the retina, thereby weakening eyesight or causing blindness. DO NOT TOUCH THE FLASH HEAD WHEN FIRING THE SB-26: The flash head generates significant heat during normal operation, which may cause burns. Also, when using the flash, keep delicate materials away from the flash head.
Getting Started SB-26 Set-Up
This section introduces preparations for using the SB-26, such as installing batteries, attaching flash unit to your camera, and finally, turning the unit on. Follow these steps in order, especially when using for the first time. This section should serve as a practical guide for later reference.
Selecting Measurement System, Meters or Feet

Installing Batteries

CAUTION TO PREVENT DAMAGE TO THE SB-26 SPEEDLIGHT
DO NOT MIX OR USE THE SB-26 WITH OTHER MANUFACTURERS CAMERAS, FLASH UNITS, OR ACCESSORIES (INCLUDING EXTERNAL POWER SOURCES): Nikon is not responsible for malfunctions or other problems resulting from use of this product with any equipment other than Nikon brand products. PROPER CARE AND STORAGE OF THE SB-26 SPEEDLIGHT SEE PAGES 140 AND 141, Tips on Speedlight Care. BATTERIES: CARE AND CAUTION SEE PAGE 142, About Batteries. ABNORMAL LC (LIQUID CRYSTAL) DISPLAY AND MALFUNCTIONING In certain cases, due to normal characteristics of the built-in microcomputer, the speedlight may not operate or an abnormal display may appear, even with fresh, properly installed batteries. If this occurs, turn off flash and remove the batteries, then reinstall batteries and turn the power on. This should properly reset the computer.

Slide the battery chamber cover in the direction and lift to open.
Slide the meter/feet lever (small switch in the mouth of the chamber) to select desired indication (m or ft.); this will appear in the LCD panel while the speedlight is in use. The lever is preset to meters (m) when shipped from the factory.
Load four 1.5V AA-type penlight alkaline-manganese or 1.2V NiCd batteries into the battery chamber. Be sure to follow the [ indication inside the chamber to ensure the batteries are properly loaded.
Using an external power source For an external power source, use optional Nikon DC Unit SD-7 or SD-8 or Power Blacket Unit SK-6. For battery information, see page 142. 21

Page 22

Chapter 2 Getting Started
Attaching Flash Unit to Camera Accessory Shoe

Checking Battery Power

Close the battery chamber lid, then slide cover to close.
Turn the SB-26s mounting foot locking wheel to the loosened position as far as it goes, without forcing.
Slide the mounting foot forward onto the cameras accessory shoe as far as it goes.
Tighten the locking wheel, taking care not to over-tighten.
Set power switch to STBY (standby position) or ON to turn on the speedlight. If batteries are properly installed/ power is sufficient, ready-light will come on, and LCD indications will appear.
LCD figures and symbols for meters (m) and feet (ft) do not appear simultaneously, as shown above. They are shown together throughout this manual for ease of explanation.
For Nikon F3 Series users The SB-26 can only be mounted on an F3 Series camera that uses a DE-2 or DE-3 finder. Be sure to attach Flash Unit Coupler AS-4 or AS-7 to the cameras accessory shoe before mounting the SB-26 on the camera. 22
Precaution for Nikon F5, F90X/N90s, F90Series/N90 and F70-Series/N70 users As the locking wheel is tightened, the SB-26 is firmly attached to the accessory shoe with the mount pin. Be extra careful that the locking wheel is completely loosened before removing the flash unit from the camera or it may cause damage to both units.
Replace batteries with a fresh set: With alkaline-manganese batteries replace if readylight takes more than 30 sec. to light up. With NiCd batteries remove if ready-light takes more than 10 sec. to light up. 23

Page 24

Adjustment Functions Using LCD Panel and Built-in Functions
Tilting/rotating flash head, built-in zoom head, LCD panel and control buttons for aperture/distance computation. The SB-26 features many convenient functions. Proper use will help you perform successful flash photography in every situation. Before practice, you should understand the adjustments and reasons behind them. Once you have learned them, you can make the most of the SB-26 for all kinds of flash techniques. Operation can be controlled manually or automatically, depending on which Nikon SLR model is used. Manual operation is described for each feature, then automatic adjustment features are described within the boxed sections (with a mark). Before proceeding: E ATTACH SPEEDLIGHT TO CAMERA. E TURN ON BOTH SPEEDLIGHT AND CAMERA.

When the desired number appears, press button to complete the setting. The indication will stop blinking. The aperture-value indicator blinks during adjustment, and stops blinking after eight seconds unless an adjustment is made with an adjustment button. The last blinking figure is automatically set in this case.
Press the button until the number in the LCD panel shows the focal length of the lens in use or shorter. When using a zoom lens other than AF Zoom Nikkor, set the shortest focal length of the lens to determine the zoom-head position that covers the full zoom length range.
Also, refer to page 143 on Angle of coverage, an angle which flash light can cover in a zoom-head position.

Page 30

Chapter 3
Automatic zoom-head position adjustment: F5, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F70-Series/N70, F4Series, F-801/N8008, or F-801s/ N8008s used with an AF Nikkor lens (including the latest D-Type) or Nikkor lens having a built-in CPU No manual adjustment is required with these camera/ lens combinations, because the SB-26 automatically adjusts the zoom-head position to provide an angle of coverage that matches the focal length of the lens in use. With an AF Nikkor lens of fixed focal length (including the latest D-Type), the zoom head automatically adjusts to the closest available wider focal length setting. With a zoom lens, the zoom head automatically adjusts within the limits of the available coverage (from 24mm to 85mm). You must set zoom-head position manually when using your camera with other lenses or to select a specifically desired position. For manual adjustment (with same camera/lens combinations as above) Press button until your desired zoom-head position appears in the LCD panel, and note the small m above the z (shown as ). Automatic adjustment will resume when the m disappears.
Shooting Practice and Flash Mode

Page 32

TTL Auto Flash H Mode Fill-Flash with Automatically Compensated Flash Output
In TTL Auto Flash mode, the SB-26 Speedlight can be used for just about any shooting situation, from bright scenes to dim lights. For precisely controlled exposures in wider brightness ranges or more complex conditions, you can use fill-flash techniques with automatic operation and/or advanced user-controlled options. The SB-26s TTL Auto Flash mode offers even more flash applications and options, such as flash synchronization with slow shutter speeds (slow sync flash), bounce flash and creative close-up photography. Even simple snap shots can be taken with a sophisticated touch. By setting the SB-26 to TTL Auto flash mode, you can enjoy flash photography that is simple, yet the most advanced available. Using this flash mode with your camera The SB-26 works in different ways, depending on which camera it is used with. TTL Auto Flash mode, in particular, offers several noteworthy features that vary from one model to another. Be sure to read Fully Automatic Fill-In Flash, pages 10 through 13, to become familiar with these SB-26 capabilities. Use the following chart to locate pages relevant to your camera model and the flash operation you wish to use. TTL Auto Flash H Mode: For F5, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90 and F70-Series/N70 Users See pages 33 41

* Camera automatically shifts to the fastest synchronization speed if you choose a speed that is not within the synchronization range.
Selecting an exposure-metering system on the F5, F90X/ N90s, F90-Series/N90 and F70-Series/N70 camera For 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced or Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, choose a meter to measure background exposure that most effectively meets the photo requirements you with to achieve. (With F5, Standard TTL Flash will always performs when Spot Metering is selected.) Quick reference on the relationship between usable apertures and flash shooting distance Use the table on page 146 in this instruction manual.
Look into camera viewfinder, compose and lightly press the shutter release button. Use AE-L (Auto Exposure Lock) on the camera to capture exact exposure information for your picture composition (except when in manual exposure mode). Confirm controlled aperture and shutter speed. These also appear in the cameras LCD panel. The aperture in use (shown in the viewfinder) and shooting distance indicator bars / appear in the SB-26s LCD panel.
If Wide-Area focus is set on the camera, it automatically switches over to Spot Area focus when the SB-26 is turned on. In this case, blinks in the LCD panel, and appears inside the viewfinder.
Over-/Underexposure warning (background exposure) For overexposure alert, HI or a + (positive) value appears in the cameras viewfinder and LCD panel. For underexposure, electronic analog displays (in viewfinder and LCD panel) show Lo or a (negative) value. 39

Page 40

Firing Flash
Confirm shooting distance.
Check whether subject falls within the range shown by the shooting distance indicator bars / in the SB-26s LCD panel. If not, move closer to subject or select a wide aperture (in aperture-priority auto or manual exposure mode). Then, repeat steps 9 and 10.
Confirm ready-light has come on and subject is in focus. Confirm ready-light is on in the cameras viewfinder g or on the SB-26. Check whether subject is in focus by using the in-focus indicator ! in the cameras viewfinder.
Fully depress shutter release button to fire flash. Recheck ready-light and to see if it is blinking. Underexposure indication When subject may have been underexposed, : mark and amount of underexposure (for example, -2.0) appear in the SB-26s LCD panel after firing. To compensate underexposure in the above example, you might consider using an aperture at least 2 f/stops wider, or move closer to subject. button to resume indication The underexposure indication lasts only three seconds Use the button to recall the indication last shown in the LCD panel.

If ready-light blinks for a few seconds after shooting, the flash has fired at its maximum output but the light may have been insufficient. Then, reconfirm shooting distance and, if necessary, move closer to subject or select a wider aperture (in aperture-priority auto or manual exposure mode) to compensate underexposure.

Page 42

Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash H Mode: For F4-Series, F-801/N8008 and F-801s/N8008s Users
The SB-26 enables you to perform the following flash methods. They are described in detail on pages 10 to 13. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash Center-Weighted Fill-Flash Spot Fill-Flash (not available with the F4-Series or F-801/N8008) Standard TTL Flash Use the chart at right to confirm which flash method you will perform with your camera, the lens in use and the metering system set on the camera. In most cases, the lens/meter combination determines the flash method. In other cases, you may have to switch metering systems, change lenses, or both. By using the SB-26s button, you can also choose Standard TTL Flash, regardless of lens type. For practice, read Set Up and Practice, from page 44 on. Flash Methods: F4-Series Settings and Lenses
Lens in Use 1) (with MultiFinder DP-20) 2) Cameras Metering System Cameras Exposure Mode Matrix Programmed auto (P, PH) Shutter-priority auto (S) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M) CenterWeighted Spot
Flash Methods: F-801/N8008 Settings and Lenses
Cameras Metering System Lens in Use 1) Cameras Exposure Mode Matrix Programmed auto (PD, P, PH) Shutter-priority auto (S) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M) Aperture-priority auto (A) 5) Manual (M) CenterWeighted
Flash Methods: F-801s/N8008s Settings and Lenses
Cameras Metering System Lens in Use 1) Cameras Exposure Mode Matrix Programmed auto (PD, P, PH) Shutter-priority auto (S) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M) Aperture-priority auto (A) 5) Manual (M) CenterWeighted Spot
AF Nikkor lenses 3) AI-P lenses
Center- Standard Matrix Balanced Weighted TTL Flash Fill-Flash Fill-Flash
Matrix Balanced FillFlash

CenterWeighted FillFlash

Center- Spot FillMatrix Balanced Weighted Flash Fill-Flash Fill-Flash
AF Teleconverter/ Aperture-priority AF Nikkor auto (A) 4) lenses for F3AF/AItype Nikkor lenses Manual (M) (including AI-S) Programmed auto (P, PH) Shutter-priority Other lenses auto (S) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M)

3) Matrix metering system automatically shifts to Center-Weighted, indicated by a blinking mark in the cameras LCD panel. Only Center-Weighted Fill-Flash is available.
Flash Methods in TTL Auto Flash Mode H Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash H Center-Weighted Fill-Flash H Spot Fill-Flash H Standard TTL Flash
Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash J button To operate any of the fully automatic fill-flash functions (Matrix Balanced, Center-Weighted or Spot Fill-Flash), use the cameras MODE/J button so that J appears in the cameras LCD panel. To activate Standard TTL Flash, use the same button again so that the J in the LCD panel disappears. The SB-26s and buttons cannot be used in either of the above cases for flash method selection. Also, the J mark does not appear in the SB-26s LCD panel. 51

Page 52

Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash H Mode: For F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 Users
Setting Up SB-26 Setting Up Your Camera
2 Flash sync mode selector at

NORMAL

1 Flash mode selector at TTL Auto
Choose p position (flash mode selector). Confirm H in the LCD panel. Choose W position* (flash sync mode selector).

3 ISO speed 10 Aperture

value of film in use
* For SLOW SYNC FLASH or REAR-CURTAIN SYNC FLASH, perform the settings on the camera; setting priorities are determined by the camera and flash sync mode selections on the SB-26 will be ignored.
To perform Matrix Balanced, Center-Weighted or Spot Fill-Flash, use the MODE/J button, and confirm the J mark in the LCD panel. To perform Standard TTL Flash, use the MODE/J button, and confirm the J mark disappears from the LCD panel. Select one of the following exposure modes: a. Programmed auto (either PM or P) b. Shutter-priority auto (S) c. Aperture-priority auto (A) d. Manual exposure mode (M) Select a metering system: a. Matrix metering system to perform Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash. b. Center-Weighted metering system to perform Center-Weighted Fill-Flash. c. With the F-601/N6006, Spot metering system to perform Spot Fill Flash. d. Any metering system can be chosen to perform Standard TTL Flash.
Set ISO speed of the film in use. Usable film speeds are ISO 25 to ISO 1000. For instruction, see Setting ISO Film Speed (Manual Adjustment), pages 27 to 28. Set the built-in zoom head position.
For instruction, see Setting Zoom-Head Position (Manual Adjustment), pages 29 to 30.

4 Zoom-head position

Quick reference on the relationship between usable apertures and flash shooting distance Use table on page 146 in this instruction manual. 52 53

Page 54

Confirming Settings Controlled shutter speed and aperture in programmed/aperture-priority auto Aperture and shutter speed are automatically controlled by the camera as specified in the following tables.

Set aperture in the SB-26s LCD panel*.
For instruction, see Setting Aperture Value (Manual Adjustment), pages 28 to 29. In programmed auto exposure mode, aperture is automatically controlled by the camera. Choose a value, using Shutter speed/aperture settings in Programmed TTL Auto Flash in the following page. In aperture-priority auto or manual exposure mode, set the aperture value that you have set on the camera (from step 6). Once aperture is set, indicator bars / show the shooting distance range.
* This operation is important for reading the appropriate shooting distance from the indicator bars (step 8); setting a wrong aperture value on the SB-26 does not affect all TTL Auto Flash operations a shot will be taken with the aperture set on the camera.
Check whether subject falls within the range of the shooting distance indicator bars / in the SB-26s LCD panel. If not, move closer to subject or select a wider aperture (when aperture-priority auto or manual exposure mode), then repeat steps 7 and 8.
Look into camera viewfinder, compose and lightly press the shutter release button. Confirm ready-light has come on and subject is in focus. Check that ready-light is on in camera viewfinder g or on the SB-26. Check whether subject is in focus.

Page 70

TTL Auto Flash H Mode: For F-401/N4004 and F-401s/N4004s Users
The SB-26 can be used in the same manner as the cameras built-in TTL flash, but offers more powerful light output and a greater shooting distance range. The SB-26s p setting takes full advantage of the F-401/N4004 and F-401s/N4004s multi-sensor metering system for flash photography. Is the scene bright or dark, and which is brighter the subject or background? The algorithm in the metering system checks the amount of light based on these questions, and the camera asks through the viewfinder whether you choose to use the flash or not. In any case, if you decide to use the flash, the camera automatically sets the most appropriate flash method for your shooting situation: Programmed TTL Auto Flash or Standard TTL Flash. Use the chart in the next page to confirm available flash/exposure mode combinations. Programmed TTL Auto Flash When light is low and the flash is needed, the camera asks you to confirm whether you wish to use the flash. If you decide to use it in programmed auto or shutter-priority exposure mode, the right aperture and shutter speed are automatically selected by the camera. Flash output is controlled by the Speedlight to correctly expose the subject. Standard TTL Flash When using aperture-priority auto or manual exposure mode, you will be asked to confirm flash use, the same as above. Flash output is controlled by the Speedlight for a correctly exposed subject. Shutter-speed and/or aperture setting(s) can be selected by the user.

For outdoor subjects on a sunny day For subjects beside a bright window For indoor subjects
Quick reference on the relationship between usable apertures and flash shooting distance Use table on page 146 in this instruction manual. 74

Page 76

TTL Auto Flash H Mode: For FA, FE2, FG and Nikonos V Users
FA, FE2, FG or Nikonos V users can use the SB-26 Speedlight to perform Standard TTL Flash, for fully automatic though-the-lens (TTL) control of flash exposure. Standard TTL Flash can be performed by setting the SB-26 at p. In Standard TTL Flash, the flash output level is controlled by the Speedlight to correctly expose subject.

3 ISO speed

Before proceeding: E ATTACH SPEEDLIGHT TO CAMERA. E TURN ON BOTH SPEEDLIGHT AND CAMERA. E USE FILM WITH A SPEED BETWEEN ISO 25 AND ISO 400.

7 Aperture

of film in use
Look into camera viewfinder, compose and lightly press the shutter release button. Confirm ready-light has come on and subject is in focus. Confirm ready-light is on in the cameras viewfinder g or on the SB-26. Check whether subject is in focus by using the in-focus indicator ! in the cameras viewfinder
Fully depress the shutter release button to fire flash. Recheck ready-light to see if it is blinking.
If ready-light blinks for a few seconds after shooting, the flash has fired at its maximum output but the light may have been insufficient. Reconfirm shooting distance and, if necessary, move closer to the subject or select a wider aperture (in aperture-priority auto manual exposure mode) to compensate underexposure.
Caution Use the SB-26 exclusively for on-land conditions; it cannot be used in underwater conditions. Always keep the unit away from salt water, rain or water splashes. 77

Page 78

Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash H Mode: For FA, FE2, FG and Nikonos V Users
Setting Up Your Camera Confirm Settings
Set desired shutter speed*.
Set your chosen aperture.
Set ISO speed of the film in use. Usable film speeds are from ISO 25 to ISO 400 For instruction, see Setting ISO Film Speed (Manual Adjustment), pages 27 to 28. Set position of the built-in zoom head.

Set aperture in use.

For instruction, see Setting Aperture Value (Manual Adjustment), pages 28 to 29. Shooting indicator bars / in the LCD panel move as the figure input changes. Determine approximate flash-shooting distance range by reading indicator bars.

Look into camera viewfinder, compose and lightly press the shutter release button. Confirm ready-light has come on and subject is in focus. Check if ready-light is on in cameras viewfinder g or on the SB-26.
Quick reference on relationship between usable apertures and flash shooting distance Use table on page 146 in this instruction manual. 78 79

Page 80

Non-TTL Auto Flash A Mode Shooting with Various Lens Apertures
To use various lens apertures for the same subject or when camera/lens combination is incompatible with TTL Auto Flash mode, set the SB-26s flash mode selector to u for Non-TTL Auto Flash operation. In Non-TTL Auto Flash shooting, light output automatically changes to match the flash-to-subject distance, but instead of light being measured through the lens, it is measured by the light sensor on the front of the SB-26. The SB-26 can be used in Non-TTL Auto Flash mode with any Nikon camera/lens combination. Before proceeding: E ATTACH SPEEDLIGHT TO CAMERA. E TURN ON BOTH SPEEDLIGHT AND CAMERA. E USE APERTURE-PRIORITY AUTO OR MANUAL EXPOSURE MODE. E USE SINGLE-SERVO AUTOFOCUS (S or A) OR MANUAL FOCUS (M). Set Up and Practice

selector at Non-TTL Auto

3 ISO film
speed in use and zoom-head position

4 Aperture

APPLICABLE NIKON SLR MODELS F5 E F-601M/N6000 E FE2 F90X/N90s E F50-Series/N50 E FG F90-Series/N90 E F-401x/N5005 E Nikonos V F70-Series/N70 E F-501/N2020 E F3-Series F4-Series E F-301/N2000 E F2-Series F-801/N8008 E F-401/N4004 E FM2 F-801s/N8008s E F-401s/N4004s E FG-20 F-601/N6006 E FA E

E E E E E E E

5 Appears when flash is fully charged and ready
to fire. Push for test firing. Blinks after firing indicates possible underexposure.

Page 82

Chapter 3 Non-TTL Auto Flash A Mode
Choose u position (flash mode selector). Confirm A appears in the LCD panel. Choose W position (flash sync mode selector*).

F90X/N90s viewfinder

* q position is used for Rear-Curtain Sync Flash, and only with the F5, F90X/N90s, F90Series/ N90, F70-Series/N70, F4-Series, F-801/N8008, and F-801s/N8008s. For details, see page 105.
Set ISO film speed and position the built-in zoom head. For instructions, see Setting ISO Film Speed (Manual Adjustment), pages 27 to 28, and Setting Zoom-Head Position (Manual Adjustment), pages 29 to 30.

The guide number helps you determine an exact flashshooting (flash-to-subject) distance for the selected aperture (f/stop number). FP guide numbers vary with the ISO film speed in use, shutter speed and zoom-head position. Use the equation below for your calculations, and check the following chart for guide numbers. This same equation can be applied to determine an appropriate aperture once the distance is known. [guide number] [flash-shooting distance] = [f/stop] For example, in FP1 operation with an aperture of f/4, a shutter speed of 1/500 sec., a zoom-head position of 35mm and a film speed of ISO 100, the chart recommends a guide number of 12 (or 39 for feet): If measuring in meters; 12 [flash-shooting distance] = 4 = 3 if measuring in feet; 39 [flash-shooting distance] = 4 = 9.75 Next, adjust subject and flash/camera location for 3 meters, or 9.75 feet, to obtain correct exposure in FP1 flash operation.
FP1 guide number (at ISO 100; for meters/feet) Shutter speed 1/250 1/500 1/1000 1/2000 1/4000 24mm 14/46 10/33 7/23 5/16 3.5/11 Zoom-head position 28mm 35mm 50mm 70mm 15/50 17/56 20/65 23/74 11/36 12/39 14/46 16/52 7.5/25 8.5/28 10/33 11/36 5.3/17 6/20 7/23 8/26 3.7/12 4.2/14 5/16 5.6/18 85mm 24/77 17/56 12/39 8.5/28 6/20
FP2 guide number (at ISO 100; for meters/feet) Shutter speed 1/250 1/500 1/1000 1/2000 1/4000 Zoom-head position 24mm 28mm 35mm 50mm 70mm 10/33 11/36 12/39 14/46 16/52 7/23 7.5/25 8.5/28 10/33 11/36 5/16 5.3/17 6/20 7/23 8/26 3.5/11 3.7/12 4.2/14 5/16 5.6/18 2.5/8.2 2.6/8.5 3/10 3.5/11 4/13 85mm 17/56 12/39 8.5/28 6/20 4.2/14
Using a film speed other than ISO 100 For film speeds other than ISO 100, multiply the above figures by the factors shown in the following chart. If the film speed in the previous example had been ISO 400 rather than ISO 100: 12 [flash-shooting distance] = 4 x 2 = 3 x 2 = 6 if measuring in feet; 39 [flash-shooting distance] = 4 x 2 = 9.75 x 2 =19.5 You should have obtained 6 meters, or 19.5 feet, for correct exposure.
Adjustment factors for other ISO film speeds ISO film speed Factor 25 x 0.x 0.xx 1.xx 2.x4

Using a Diffuser

To diffuse light, place a translucent material, such as one or more sheets of tracing paper between the flash and the subject. Avoid using delicate materials for the diffuser, and ensure a sufficient distance between the flash head and diffuser to avoid burns. For optimum results, experiment with different flash-to-diffuser distances and with more than one diffuser In TTL Auto Flash operation, the SB-26 will automatically compensate for the diffuser affect (reduced light amount) in TTL Auto Flash mode. For further instructions, see the TTL Auto Flash Mode H section relating to your camera type. Note that the LCD panel cannot be used to compute flash shooting distance in bounce photography. To protect the diffuser from burning, be sure it does not come in direct contact with the flash head. Avoid reflection from the translucent material into the lens. Bracketing your exposures If possible, take additional shots with different apertures and/or exposure compensation techniques for exposure bracketing. Bounce/diffuser techniques reduce the maximum distance available for a given aperture due to the extra distance required for the flash light to travel, or amount of diffusion, or blockage. Make exposure compensation on your camera (this adjustment is not possible with the F-401x/N5005, F-401/N4004, F-401s/N4004s and FM2) for TTL Auto Flash operation, or with the lens opened up one or two f/stops for Non-TTL Auto Flash operation.
Bounce flash (above; with ceiling): Soft, natural-looking lighting. Direct flash (below): Harsh, un-flattering lighting

Page 124

Close-Up Flash Photography in TTL Auto Flash Mode To Flash On
Optional TTL Remote Cord SC-17 or SC-24 lets you perform TTL Auto Flash shooting on a subject closer than 0.6m (2 ft.). Hints and Notes Connect the SB-26 to the camera, using the SC-17 or SC-24*.
* Used for F5 with the DW-30/DW-31 attached or for F4-series with the DW-20/ DW-21 attached.

A Very Close Subject

For example, to shoot a subject located 0.5 m away with an ISO 100 film and a wide-flash adapter: 4 [f/stop] 0.5 = 8 You can then use an aperture of f/8 or smaller (a larger fnumber). As far as conditions allow, you should choose the smallest aperture (as large an f-number) possible. With a very light- or dark-toned subject, take additional shots with other exposure compensation conditions to ensure a correct exposure. See Flash Exposure Compensation on pages 106 and 107, and Exposure Compensation on Camera on pages 108 and 109.

When a second shot cannot be taken (F5, F90X/ N90s, F90-Series/N90, F70-Series/N70, F4-Series, F-801/N8008, F-801s/ N8008s, F-601/N6006, F-601M/ N6000, F50-Series/N50, F-401x/ N5005, and F-501/ N2020) For multiple flash photography, if the electronic current in the synchro circuit exceeds a certain level, you may not be able to take a second shot after taking the first shot. Take care that the combined total of the coefficients (numbers shown in parentheses below) for all Speedlights used at any one time does not exceed 20 at 20C (68F), or 13 at 40C (104F). If you are unable to take a second shot, disconnect the master Speedlight from the camera, or turn each of the Speedlights off once. This resets the circuits so you can resume shooting.
Speedlight coefficients SB-27 (1) SB-26 (1) SB-25 (1) SB-22 (6) SB-21 (4) SB-20 (9) SB-17 (4) SB-16 (4) SB-15 (4) SB-11 (1) SB-24 (1) SB-19 (2) SB-14 (1) SB-23 (4) SB-18 (16) SB-12 (1)
Manual Multiple Flash Photography Use the sync/multiple flash terminal for connection with other Speedlights via optional sync cords. Use optional Sync Cord SC-11 or SC-15. Set and use Manual i Flash mode on each Speedlight for correct exposure.

Page 134

System Chart for TTL Multiple Flash
The SB-11, SB-14, SB-140 and SB-21B cannot be used with the F-401/N4004 or F-401s/N4004s either as a master or slave unit. The SB-21A and SB-23 Speedlights cannot be used as slave units. F5 (with DA-30/DP-30), F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F70-Series/N70 F5 (with DW-31/DW-30)

Master flash unit

Slave flash unit
Using SC-18 or SC-19, up to five flash units can be used for multiple flash photography, at a total length of 10m (33 ft.).

SB-16B SB-24 SB-25 SB-26

SB-16B

SC-18 SC-19

SB-15 SB-20 SC-24 SB-15 SB-20 SB-22 SB-23 SB-22 SB-27
F4-Series (with DW-21/DW-20) F4-Series (with DA-20/DP-20), F-801/N8008, F-801s/N8008s F-601/N6006, F-601M/N6000

SB-21B

SC-23 SB-14140 SB-11

A A A A

SB-21B SB-11 AS-10
SC-17 SC-18 (1.5m/4.9 ft.) SC-19 (3m/9.8 ft.) SC-23 SB-14140 SB-17
F50-Series/N50, F-401x/N5005
F-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004, F-301/N2000 FA, FE2, FG Nikonos V F3-Series 134

V-Type Sync Cord SC-14

SB-16A
SB-17 SB-16A SB-16B SB-24 AS-10 SB-25 SB-21A
Precaution for SC-19/ SC-18 connection Neither of these cords should be used for connecting one camera/ Speedlight combination to another.

03.1.14 7:17 PM

Page 136
Accessories for TTL Multiple Flash
TTL Remote Cord SC-17 Use coiled cord SC-17 for TTL Auto Flash operation when using the SB-26 off the Nikon F5 (with DP-30 or DA-30), F90X/N90s, F90-Series/ N90, F70-Series/N70, F4-Series (with DP-20 or DA-20), F-801/N8008, F-801s/N8008s, F-601/N6006, F-601 M /N6000, F50-Series/N50, F-401x/ N5005, F-501/ N2020, F-301/N2000, F-401/N4004, F-401s/ N4004s, FA, FE2 and FG cameras. The SC-17 provides automatic sync speed setting and the same ready-light viewfinder indication as if the flash unit were directly mounted on the camera. The SC-17 comes with two TTL multiple flash terminals and one tripod socket. It is approx. 1.5m (4.9 ft.) long. TTL Remote Cord SC-24 Use SC-24, for TTL Auto Flash operation when using the SB-26 off a Nikon F5 or F4-Series camera fitted either with a 6x High-Magnification Finder DW-31/DW-21 or WaistLevel Finder DW-30/DW-20. The SC-24 comes with two TTL multiple flash terminals and one tripod socket. It is approx. 1.5m (4.9 ft.) long. TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 Use Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 when using more than three units for TTL multiple flash operation. The AS-10 comes with three multiple flash terminals and one tripod socket. (Requires SC-18 or SC-19 for each flash use.) TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18 and SC-19 To connect the flash unit for TTL multiple flash operation, use Sync Cord SC-18 or SC-19. The SC-18 is approx. 1.5m (4.9 ft.) long; the SC-19, 3m (9.8 ft.) long.

A narrow angle of reflection (Q: less than 2.5) increases the likelihood of red eye.
It is sometimes possible to reduce red-eye effect by moving closer to the subject, or the right or left, thereby increasing the angle of reflection.

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Tips on Speedlight Care
To remove smudges, wipe with a silicon-treated or other soft, dry cloth. Never use thinner, benzine or alcohol they might damage plastic parts.
Never disassemble or repair the Speedlight. If the SB-26 malfunctions, take it immediately to an authorized Nikon dealer or service center.
Keep the SB-26 away from salt water and out of the rain.
Keep the SB-26 away from high temperatures, and do not store in a damp place.
When not using the SB-26, remove batteries to avoid damage due to battery leakage. If leakage occurs, take the SB-26 to your nearest Nikon dealer.
When not using the SB-26, perform the following once a month: 1. Install batteries, turn on the SB-26. 2. Wait until the ready-light comes on. 3. Fire flash a few times to refresh the main capacitor and lengthen the units life. 4. Turn off the SB-26, and remove the batteries.

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About Batteries
Warning Batteries shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like. Dry batteries shall not be subjected to charging. New batteries Purchase the newest (freshest) batteries possible. Temperature Battery life ratings are based on operation at 20C (68F). Especially at a lower temperature, battery life is shortened. Keep spare batteries and if possible, use NiCd batteries. Continuous use Batteries are drained more quickly by continuous use than by intermittent use. Storage Store batteries in a cool, dry place, below 20C (68F). Battery brand Do not mix battery brands or models, or new and old batteries. Disposal Do not dispose of batteries by burning, and never disassemble batteries. NiCd batteries Compared with regular batteries, NiCd batteries offer a faster recycling time and greater efficiency at low temperatures. Before charging NiCd batteries, thoroughly read the instructions for the batteries and battery charger. Batteries with a + terminal that exceeds 6mm (0.23) in diameter cannot be used. 142 DC Units SD-8/SD-7 Nikon DC Unit SD-8 or SD-7 can be used as an optional external power source to enhance flash capacity and provide faster recycling time. To use the DC Unit, connect its power cord SC-16 to the SB-26s external power terminal. Even when powered with the DC Unit, the SB-26 still requires batteries inside the flash unit. Do not remove the batteries. In continuous shooting with the DC Unit, to prevent flash head deterioration caused by heat, do not exceed the maximum number of flash listed below. It is recommended to rest for more than 10 minutes after firing near the maximum numbers.