Chapter 5: Notes on Speedlight
Red Eye...134 Flash Sync Mode Selector vs. Position...135 Tips on Speedlight Care..About Batteries..138 Specifications..Usable Aperture/Flash Shooting Distance Ranges In TTL Auto And Non-TTL Flash Modes...142
Chapter 2: Before Flash Shooting
WARNING TO AVOID INJURY..20 CAUTION TO PREVENT DAMAGE TO THE SB-25 SPEEDLIGHT..20 Getting Started SB-25 Set-Up.Selecting Measurement System, Meters or Feet...21 Installing Batteries..Attaching Flash Unit to the Camera Accessory Shoe..Checking Battery Power...23

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Chapter 1
Introducing the SB-25 Autofocus Speedlight

Page 8

Nomenclature

Built-in diffuser card

Flash head Locks at the front position and the 90 position; tilts up to 90 and down to 7; rotates 90 to the right and 180 to the left. Autofocus assist illuminator LED Enables autofocus operation in dim light or total darkness. Light sensor for Non-TTL Auto Flash operation In Non-TTL Auto Flash operation, be careful not to cover or otherwise obstruct the sensor.
Built-in wide flash adapter
Tilting angle scale Flash head rotating lock release lever

Rotating angle scale

Battery chamber lid Slide and lift to open. Flash head tilting lock release lever Meter/Feet select lever (inside battery chamber)
External power source terminal Accepts power cord of Nikon DC unit SD-8/SD-7. Mounting foot locking wheel Terminal cover Keep terminal covered when not in use. TTL multiple flash terminal For TTL-exposure-control multiple flash operation. Sync/multiple flash terminal For manual-exposure multiple flash operation. LCD panel See page 26. Control buttons See page 26.

Mount pin

Battery chamber Accepts four 1.5V AA-type penlight batteries, either 1.5V alkaline-manganese or 1.2V NiCd batteries (voltage for NiCd batteries varies depending on manufacturer; maximum permitted is 1.5V).

Hot-shoe contacts

Mounting foot

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Main Features/Functions SB-25s Flash Capabilities
The SB-25 is a most versatile Speedlight which offers variety of convenient features to enhance your flash photography. To understand these features/function will help you operate the SB-25 easily, therefore, enjoy more options and creative possibilities. Each of following topics cover particular Nikon SLR models: Fully Automatic Fill Flash: F90-Series/N90, F4-Series, F-801/N8008, F-801s/N8008s, F-601/N6006, F-601 M / N6000 and F-401x/N5005 Standard TTL Flash: F90-Series/N90, F4-Series, F-801/N8008, F-801s/N8008s, F-601/N6006, F-601 M / N6000, F-501/N2020, F-301/N2000, F-401/N4004, F-401s/N4004s, FA, FE2, FG and Nikonos V FP High-Speed Sync Flash: F90-Series/N90 Rear-Curtain Sync Flash: F90-Series/N90, F4-Series, F-801/N8008, F-801s/N8008s, F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 Red-Eye Reduction Control: F90-Series/N90 Repeating Flash: All the Nikon SLR models covered in this manual

3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash photography: particularly effective for subject standing against a shiny object.
FP High-Speed Sync Flash: Allows a wider aperture, thus, shallower depth of field for a blurred background. 12 13

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Rear-Curtain Sync Flash
The combination of high shutter-speed range and flash sync capability provides you with more options for flash photography in day-light conditions. It enables you to use a wider aperture to blur the subjects background (create a shallow depth of field), light up shadowed areas in outdoor photography, or even create light flow for fast moving subjects. FP high-speed sync flash is only available in the SB-25s Manual flash mode when using the F90-Series/N90. For details, see FP High-Speed Sync Flash Flash Photography At Higher Shutter Speeds on page 98. In normal flash synchronization, the flash fires at an early stage of exposure (i.e., front-curtain sync). At slow shutter speeds with a moving subject, this results in unnatural light patterns. For more natural lighting, use Rear-Curtain Sync. With this method, the flash fires at a later stage of the exposure, just before the rear, or second, shutter curtain starts to close (i.e., rear-curtain sync), turning available light into a stream of light that follows the flash-illuminated moving subject. Rear-Curtain Sync is available with the F90Series/N90, F4-Series, F-801/N8008, F-801s/N8008s, F-601/N6006 and F-601M/ N6000. For more details, see Rear-Curtain Sync Flash For Natural Light Flow, page 105 and Flash Sync Mode Selector vs. , page 135.

SB-25 sync flash

Y Light output Y Y X: Y: : : 1: F R Time duration Shutter curtain movement Front-curtain movement Rear-curtain movement Film surface is exposed to flash light throughout the entire duration. 2: Film surface is exposed to flash light for only part of the time that the curtain are open. A slow shutter speed could create light flow from a moving subject. Rear-Curtain Sync Flash catches him/her with natural-looking light stream. 15
X 1 FP High-Speed Sync Flash Front-curtain sync flash
X 2 Rear-curtain sync flash

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Red-Eye Reduction Control
Red eye effect occurs in flash photography when flash pictures are taken in dim surroundings where the subjects eye pupils will be dilated (opened very wide). Light from the cameras flash reflects off the interior of the eye through the wide-open pupil and back into the cameras lens; the result in the photo appears as bright red eyes. The SB-25 fires three consecutive flash prior to the main flash. This causes the subjects pupils to constrict (become smaller), reducing the appearance of red-eye. The F90-Series/N90 offers this exclusive Red-Eye Reduction Control to control preflash, for use in any flash mode, except Repeating Flash mode. For more details and setting operation, see page 104, and the cameras instruction manual. Red-eye effect can also be controlled by the angle at which light strikes the subject and is reflected back to the cameras lens. For further details, see Red Eye, page 134.

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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-25 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-25 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: ATTACH SPEEDLIGHT TO CAMERA. TURN ON BOTH SPEEDLIGHT AND CAMERA.
Adjusting Flash Head To Horizontal/Front Position
In normal shooting situations, the flash head should face straight forward, tilted in the horizontal position. A tilted/rotated head can be used for special techniques such as close-ups or bounce flash photography.
Tilting/Rotating flash head to a position other than horizontal and straight forward Downward-tilted flash head (-7 position) is used for taking pictures of subjects at a distance of less than 1.5m (approx. 5 ft.). When the head is set at this position, the distance indicator bars blink. An upward-tilted and/or rotated flash head is used for bounce flash photography. When the head is set this way, the distance indicator bars do not appear, to show the distance indication function is not available. See Diffusing Light To Soften Harsh Shadows, pages 119 to 123, for information on bounce flash photography.
Tilt the flash head to the horizontal, until it click-stops.
The flash head locks both at the horizontal, facing straightforward (0 degree), and at the vertical, facing straight-up (90 degrees). To release from the locked position, slide the lock release lever in the > direction, then, while holding the lever, tilt the flash head.
Adjust the flash head so it faces straight forward check that it is not rotated to the right or left. To unlock from the forward position, slide the lock release lever in P direction, then, while holding the lever, rotate flash head to either the right or left.
Confirm indicator bars appear in the flash shooting distance scale (LCD panel). Bars do not appear or will blink if the flash head is not set horizontal and straight ahead. If indicator bars do not appear in the LCD panel at all, check whether the camera is turned on. If it is, lightly press the shutter release button. If not, turn on the camera, then lightly press the shutter release button. Indicator bars appear for eight seconds once activated (they disappear after eight seconds). Lightly pressing the shutter release button causes the bars to reappear.

Setting Up Your Camera Confirming Settings
Select one of the following exposure modes: a. Programmed auto (P or Ps) b. Shutter-priority auto (S) c. Aperture-priority auto (A) d. Manual exposure mode (M) Select a metering system: a. Matrix metering system b. Center-Weighted metering system c. Spot metering system
Perform other settings: a. For programmed auto, set lens to minimum aperture (highest f-number). b. For shutter-priority auto, set lens to minimum aperture (highest f-number), then set desired shutter speed*. c. For aperture-priority auto, set desired aperture. d. For manual exposure mode, set desired shutter speed* and aperture.
* 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 F90Series/N90 camera Either 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced or Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash will operate regardless of exposure meter system chosen, when the camera is used with a Dtype Nikkor, an AF Nikkor (except for F3AF) or an AI-P lens. Choose a meter to measure background exposure that most effectively meets the photo requirements you wish to achieve.
Quick reference on the relationship between usable apertures and flash shooting distance Use the table on page 142 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-25s LCD panel.
Over-/Underexposure warning (background exposure) For overexposure alert, HI or a + (positive) value appears in the F90-Series/N90 viewfinder and LCD panel. For underexposure, electronic analog displays (in viewfinder and LCD panel) show Lo or a (negative) value.

Page 38

Firing Flash
Confirm shooting distance.
Check whether subject falls within the range shown by the shooting distance indicator bars in the SB-25s 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 or on the SB-25. Check whether subject is in focus by using the in-focus indicator I 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, ) appear in the SB-25s 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.

AF Nikkor lenses 2) AI-P lenses Other lenses
Center-Weighted Fill- Spot FillFlash Flash 3)
1) Suitable lenses and use depend on the camera; see instruction manual for information. 2) Except AF lenses for F3AF cameras.
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.
Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash button To operate any of the fully automatic fill-flash functions (Matrix Balanced, Center-Weighted or Spot Fill-Flash), use the cameras MODE/ button so that appears in the cameras LCD panel. To activate Standard TTL Flash, use the same button again so that the in the LCD panel disappears. The SB-25s and buttons cannot be used in either of the above cases for flash method selection. Also, the mark does not appear in the SB-25s LCD panel.

Page 50

Setting Up SB-25 Setting Up Your Camera
Mode: For F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 Users
2 Flash sync mode selector at

NORMAL

1 Flash mode selector at TTL Auto
Choose position (flash mode selector). Confirm in the LCD panel. Choose tor). position* (flash sync mode selec-

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-25 will be ignored.
To perform Matrix Balanced, Center-Weighted or Spot Fill-Flash, use the MODE/ button, and confirm the mark in the LCD panel. To perform Standard TTL Flash, use the MODE/ button, and confirm the 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.

TTL Auto flash mode

Lens in Use 1)

with F-401x/N5005

SB-25 Flash
Cameras Exposure Mode Programmed auto (P) Shutter-priority auto (S) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M)

Aperture-priority auto

If necessary, select a smaller aperture (larger f-number).
AF Nikkor lenses 2) AI-P lenses
Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash
Shutter speed display blinks
Selected shutter speed may be too slow for handheld photography Select a wider aperture. or for movement of subject
Flash Methods in TTL Auto Flash Mode Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash Center-Weighted Fill-Flash

Page 58

Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash Mode: For F-401x/N5005 Users
Check the charts on page 57 to determine which flash is available and suitable for your shooting situation before actual shooting. Before proceeding: ATTACH SPEEDLIGHT TO CAMERA. TURN ON BOTH SPEEDLIGHT AND CAMERA. SET LENS TO MINIMUM APERTURE (HIGHEST FNUMBER). USE A FILM BETWEEN ISO 25 AND ISO 1000.

Setting Up Your Camera

1 Flash mode selector

at TTL Auto

2 Flash sync
Select one of the following exposure modes: a. Programmed auto (P), shutter-priority auto (S) or aperture-priority auto (A) to perform Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash. b. Manual exposure mode to perform CenterWeighted Fill-Flash. Perform other settings: a. For shutter-priority auto, set desired shutter speed*. b. For aperture-priority auto, set desired aperture. c. For manual exposure mode, set desired shutter speed* and aperture.
* Since TTL Auto Flash operation can be performed regardless of the flash sync mode selector setting, for simplicity, always leave the switch at this position.

3 ISO speed 8 Aperture

Set ISO speed of the film in use. Usable 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.

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Confirm Settings
Warning indications Selected Viewfinder exposure LED mode No Programmed indication auto + or + R Shutterpriority auto R R or Status/cause Background is overexposed. OK: Background is correctly exposed Background is underexposed Background is overexposed OK: Background is correctly exposed Background is underexposed Background is overexposed OK: Background is correctly exposed Background is underexposed Troubleshooting Select faster shutter speed until only R appears. Select slower shutter speed until only R appears. Select smaller aperture until only R appears. Select larger aperture until only R appears. Select faster shutter speed or smaller aperture. Select slower shutter speed or larger aperture. 61

Confirm ready-light has come on and subject is in focus. Confirm ready-light is on in the camera viewfinder or on the SB-25. Check whether subject is in focus by using the in-focus indicator I in the cameras viewfinder.
Usable maximum apertures in programmed auto or shutter priority auto Choose an aperture that does not exceed the maximum possible aperture for the film in use, as given below. ISO film speed Maximum aperture 25 f/400 f/f/9.f/10
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 subject or select a wider aperture (in aperture-priority auto or manual exposure mode) to compensate underexposure.

f/4.7 f/5.6 f/6.7

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Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash Mode: For F-501/N2020 and F-301/N2000 Users
The SB-25 lets you choose between Programmed TTL Auto Flash or Standard TTL Flash in TTL Auto flash mode. Use the charts at right to confirm available flash/exposure mode combinations. Programmed TTL Auto Flash By setting the cameras exposure mode to a programmed auto setting (either P DUAL , P or P HI ), you can choose Programmed TTL Auto Flash. In Programmed TTL Auto Flash, the camera automatically selects a shutter speed of 1/125 sec. and a controlled aperture that corresponds to the ISO speed of the film in use (see chart on page 68). Flash output is regulated by the Speedlight to ensure a correct subject exposure. This enables you to concentrate on picture composition without worrying about exposure settings (including aperture). You can also perform Standard TTL Flash with the camera set at aperture-priority auto (A) or manual exposure mode. In Standard TTL Flash, the Speedlight controls the flash output level to correctly expose the subject. Shutterspeed and/or aperture setting(s) can be selected by the user. TTL Auto flash mode F-301/N2000

Lens in Use

with F-501/N2020 and
SB-25 Flash Programmed TTL Auto Flash
Cameras Exposure Mode Programmed auto (PDUAL, P or PHI) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M)
AI-S type lenses (including AF Nikkor and AI-P) 2)
1) Suitable lenses and use depend on the camera; see instruction manual for information. 2) Except AF lenses for F3AF cameras. For Programmed TTL Auto Flash, use only AI-S lenses, which include AF Nikkor, Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU and Series E lenses.
You can choose Programmed TTL Auto Flash against Standard TTL Flash by setting camera to a programmed auto exposure mode (either PDUAL, P or PHI). Check charts on the previous page. Before proceeding: ATTACH SPEEDLIGHT TO CAMERA. TURN ON BOTH SPEEDLIGHT AND CAMERA. USE SINGLE-SERVO AUTOFOCUS (S) OR MANUAL FOCUS (M). USE SINGLE-FRAME SHOOTING (S) FILM ADVANCE MODE. USE FILM WITH A SPEED BETWEEN ISO 25 AND ISO 1000. USE AN AI-S LENS (AF Nikkor, Nikkor lens with built-in CPU or Series E lens).

at Repeating Flash

5 Flash
speed per sec. (in hertz)

3 Zoomhead position

Choose position (flash mode selector). Confirm and appear in the LCD panel. Choose tor*). position (flash sync mode selec-
position is only used for Rear-Curtain Sync Flash in TTL Auto , Nonand Manual Flash, and only with the F90-Series/N90, F4TTL Auto Series, F-801/N8008, and F-801s/N8008s. For details, see page 105.

8 Aperture

Set the built-in zoom head position.
Automatic zoom-head position adjustment: F90-Series/N90, F4-Series, F-801/N8008, or F-801s/N8008s used with an AF Nikkor lens (including the latest D-Type) or Nikkor lens having a builtin CPU The zoom-head position in use is automatically set and indicated in the SB-25s LCD panel. For other lenses, set manually according to the shooting situation. See Setting Zoom-Head Position (Manual Adjustment), pages 29 and 30.
For instructions, see Setting Zoom-Head Position (Manual Adjustment), pages 29 to 30. Press button to choose desired light output.
You can choose an amount ranging from one eighth of full power (1/8) to one sixty-fourth (1/64). LCD indications change as: -.

6 Number of flash

per frame

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Chapter 3 Repeating Flash Mode
F90-Series/N90s LCD panel
Press until a number (flash speed per second) starts blinking beside. Use or to set a desired flash speed. See Determining shutter speed with number/speed of flashes on page 93.
Press again until a number (flashes per frame) starts blinking beside center hyphen. Use or to set the desired number. The maximum number of flashes per frame depends on light-output amount and flash speed. If two hyphens blink, the available number of flashes is fixed (no other choice). For details, see the chart below.
Set desired shutter speed and aperture on the camera.
Choose B (bulb) setting or a shutter speed long enough to accommodate the flash you will fire. For calculations, see at right, Determining shutter speed with number/speed of flashes. Use a tripod to minimize camera shake.
Determining shutter speed with number/speed of flash Frequency (Hz) represents the number of flash fired per second. For example, 10Hz will fire 10 times in one second. Or, because firing the flash five times takes 1/2 sec. at 10Hz, the shutter speed must be adjusted to at least as slow as 1/2 sec. For another example, firing six times at 8Hz takes 6/8 sec. to occur. However, because your camera does not have a shutter speed of 6/8 (0.75) sec., you should set it to the closest slower shutter speed, which is one second. The following equation can be applied to calculate an appropriate shutter speed: [Number of flash per frame] [Shutter speed] [Speed of flash (Hz)] where the result (shutter speed) must be rounded off to the closest slower shutter speed available with your camera.

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

Page 104

Red-Eye Reduction Control For Better Flash Portraits
Light from the cameras flash reflects off the interior of the eye through the wide-open pupil and back into the cameras lens. The result is a portrait with the subjects eyes bright red, a phenomenon known as red-eye effect. When used with the F90-Series/N90 camera, the SB-25 fires three pre-flash consecutively before the main flash to reduce the appearance of red eyes. Red-eye effect can also be affected by the angle at which light flash on the subject and is reflected back to the lens. For further details on red eye, see page 134. Before proceeding: ATTACH SPEEDLIGHT TO CAMERA. TURN ON BOTH SPEEDLIGHT AND CAMERA. USE SINGLE-SERVO AUTOFOCUS (S or A) OR MANUAL FOCUS (M). USE SINGLE-FRAME SHOOTING (S) FILM ADVANCE MODE. Hints and Notes
Rear-Curtain Sync Flash For Natural Light Flows
When used with the F90-Series/N90, F4-Series, F-801/ N8008, F-801s/N8008s, F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000, the SB-25 lets you synchronize the flash to the instant before the rear (second) curtain begins to close. This turns available light into a stream of light that follows the moving, flash-illuminated subject. Rear-curtain sync flash photography is most effective with slower shutter speeds. You can slow the shutter down to 30 sec., depending on the background situation. Before proceeding: ATTACH SPEEDLIGHT TO CAMERA. TURN ON BOTH SPEEDLIGHT AND CAMERA. USE SHUTTER-PRIORITY AUTO OR MANUAL EXPOSURE MODE. USE SINGLE-SERVO AUTOFOCUS (S or A) OR MANUAL FOCUS (M). Hints and Notes Select TTL Auto mode. , Non-TTL Auto or Manual Flash

Lighter or Darker

button again to complete setting.
The the value indicator will automatically stop blinking in eight seconds unless you press the button. In this case, the last figure indicated will be set in the SB-25. The exposure compensation value remains in the LCD panel.
Choose position (flash mode selector). Confirm in the LCD panel. This feature is available only in TTL Auto Flash mode. Press the button.
To cancel, readjust compensation value to 0 (steps 1 and 2), then press button or leave it more than eight seconds so the indication disappears.
Confirm the indicator appears and (zero exposure compensation value) blinks in the LCD panel.
For F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 users Make settings on the camera to control the SB-25s flash exposure compensation; the SB-25 will works as set on the camera. The SB-25s control buttons and LCD panel cannot be used for setting.
Press buttons for value adjustment. Adjustment can be made while the value indicator is blinking. Simultaneously, the shooting indicator bars change.
Exposure compensation on the camera You can make additional compensation for background by using the cameras exposure compensation dial. For example, with compensation of 2 on the SB-25 and 1 on the camera body, the total compensated value for flash output level is 3, and the compensated value for the background will be 1. Note that the SB-25 s LCD panel shows only the compensated value of the SB-25. For further information, see Exposure Compensation with Cameras Dial To Make Background Lighter or Darker, pages 108 and 109.

Page 108

Exposure Compensation with Cameras Dial To Make Background
Some camera models include an EV compensation control. Using this control you can modify the exposure to make your picture lighter or darker. To make the picture lighter, use + compensation. For darker pictures use compensation. How much compensation you choose depends on how much you want to modify the resulting picture. Since the shooting distance range for TTL Auto Flash varies with the amount of exposure compensation, make sure your subject falls within the range before shooting. You can use the LCD panel for confirmation by altering the ISO film speed value and observing changes of distance indicator bars. Hints and Notes

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

Page 112

Zoom-Lock Capability To Fix Zoom-Head Position
A predetermined zoom-head position is useful when you wish to use an AF Nikkor lens or a Nikkor lens having a built-in CPU interchangeably with another type. It also provides flexibility when using lenses of different focal lengths in rapid succession. Set Up and Practice
Trouble With Wide Flash Adapter
In certain situations, the zoom head may lock at the 20mm position (adapter does not return to original position). If this happens, perform following operation. Although the adjusted zoom-head position and/or indication will blink if the wide flash adapter is stored in its original place, this does not affect normal flash operation.
Press and buttons simultaneously for a few seconds until indication starts blinking.
Next, press button only to set desired zoom-head position. This position remains locked as long as the indication continues blinking.
Press and buttons simultaneously for a few seconds until the previously set number and the indication start blinking.
Press only button to set your desired zoom-head position. To resume automatic adjustment with certain camera/lens combinations (see page 30), press button until the indication above disappears.
To unlock, press the same buttons simultaneously for a few seconds until the indication stops blinking or totally disappears.
Automatic zoom-head position adjustment: F90Series/N90, F4-Series, 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
The SB-25 automatically adjusts the zoom-head position to provide an angle of coverage that matches the focal length of the lens in use. For details, see page 30.

Page 114

AF Assist LED Autofocus Flash Photography in Dim Light
The SB-25s AF assist LED enables you to perform autofocus flash photography in dim light or even total darkness with some Nikon AF cameras. When ambient light is insufficient for autofocus operation, the AF illuminator automatically turns on to start operation and give contrast to a dark subject, allowing the cameras autofocus system to function as though it were daytime. If ambient light is sufficient, the AF illuminator does not light up. Before proceeding: ATTACH SPEEDLIGHT TO CAMERA. TURN ON BOTH SPEEDLIGHT AND CAMERA. USE SINGLE-SERVO AUTOFOCUS (S or A) USE SINGLE-FRAME SHOOTING (S) FILM ADVANCE MODE Hints and Notes In Rear-Curtain Sync Flash with the F-601/N6006, a light pattern from the AF assist LED sometimes affects the picture. To prevent this, confirm that the LED light pattern has disappeared before shooting. Usable autofocus lenses are: With Nikon F-501/N2020: AF Nikkor lenses from 35mm to 105mm (including the latest D-Type) With other cameras: AF Nikkor lenses from 24mm to 105mm (including the latest D-Type) Notes on AF assist LED Autofocus distance range with AF assist LED depends on the lens in use and subjects reflection ratio. For example, with an AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 lens (including the latest D-Type lens) and a subject having 35% reflection ratio, you can perform autofocus from approx. 1m (3.3 ft.) to approx. 8m (16.4 ft.), at 20C (68F). If the ready-light does not stay on after the AF assist LED activates, replace batteries.

Position

For F90-Series/N90, F4-Series, F-801/N8008 and F-801s/ N8008s Users: Front-curtain sync is performed at setting. Rear-Curtain Sync flash is performed at setting. For F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 Users: The sync mode, whether front- or rear-curtain, or slow or not, must be set on the camera. The selection is executed regardless of the SB-25s selector position. Therefore, we recommend you leave the selector switch on the position in any circumstances. For F-401x/N5005, F-501/N2020, F-301/N2000, F-401/ N4004, F-401s/ N4004s, FA, FE2, FG, Nikonos V, F3Series, F2-Series, FM2 and FG-20 Users: Front-curtain sync is performed at either or setting. These models are not capable of rear-curtain sync. Therefore, regardless of circumstances, we recommend you leave the selector switch on position.
A narrow angle of reflection (: 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.

Page 136

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-25 malfunctions, take it immediately to an authorized Nikon dealer or service center.
Keep the SB-25 away from salt water and out of the rain.
Keep the SB-25 away from high temperatures, and do not store in a damp place.
When not using the SB-25, remove batteries to avoid damage due to battery leakage. If leakage occurs, take the SB-25 to your nearest Nikon dealer.
When not using the SB-25, perform the following once a month: 1. Install batteries, turn on the SB-25. 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-25, and remove the batteries.

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About Batteries
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.

Dimensions (W x H x D): Approx. 79 x 135 x 101mm (3.1 x 5.3 x 4.0 in.) Weight (without batteries): Approx. 380g (13.4 oz.) Accessory provided: Soft Case SS-24 Specifications and designs are subject to change without notice.

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Usable Aperture/Flash Shooting Distance Ranges In TTL Auto and Non-TTL Flash Modes
ISO film speed 1600 2.5.2.5.400 1.2.5.200 1.2.5.Zoom set at 20mm 2.1.1.0.0.7 7.0 0.6 5.0 0.6 3.5 0.6 2.5 0.6 1.7 0.6 1.2 Zoom set at 24mm 3.2.1.1.1.0.7 7.5 0.6 5.3 0.6 3.7 0.6 2.6 0.6 1.8 Shooting distance range (in meters) Zoom set Zoom set Zoom set at 28mm at 35mm at 50mm 4.4.5.2.3.3.2.2.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.0.7 8.0 0.8 9.0 1.0.6 5.6 0.6 6.3 0.7 7.4 0.6 4.0 0.6 4.5 0.6 5.2 0.6 2.8 0.6 3.2 0.6 3.7 0.6 2.0 0.6 2.3 0.6 2.6 Shooting distance range (in feet) Zoom set Zoom set Zoom set at 28mm at 35mm at 50mm 9.6.7.8.4.5.6.3.3.4.2.2.3.2.2.2.2.2.2.2.0 9.2 2.2.2.0 6.5 2.0 7.3 2.0 8.6 Zoom set at 70mm 6.4.3.2.1.1.0.8 8.4 0.6 6.0 0.6 4.2 0.6 3.0 Zoom set at 85mm 6.4.3.2.1.1.0.8 8.8 0.6 6.2 0.6 4.4 0.6 3.1

1.2.5.11 16

f/ stop

1.2.5.11

1.2.5.6 8
ISO film speed 1600 2.5.2.5.400 1.2.5.200 1.2.5.Zoom set at 20mm 8.5.4.2.2.2.2.2.0 8.2 2.0 5.7 2.0 4.1 Zoom set at 24mm 8.6.4.3.2.2.2.2.0 8.6 2.0 6.1
Zoom set at 70mm 9.7.4.3.2.2.2.2.0 9.8
Zoom set at 85mm 7.5.3.2.2.2.2.0 10
:Programmed TTL Auto Flash with Nikon F-401x/N5005, F-501/N2020, F-301/N2000, F-401/N4004 and F-401s/N4004s. :Non-TTL Auto Flash mode. Usable film speeds depend on the camera model used.

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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.

NIKON CORPORATION

FUJI BLDG., 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO 100, JAPAN PHONE: 81-3-3214-5311 TELEX: NIKON J22601 FAX: 81-3-3201-5856
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