Autofocus Speedlight

Instruction Manual

Foreword

Congratulations. You are now the proud owner of the Nikon Autofocus Speedlight SB-28, a flash unit offering sleek new styling and simple push-button operation. When used with Nikon SLR cameras, the SB-28s extensive capabilities range from 3D MultiSensor Balanced Fill-Flash, todays most advanced flash technology, to full manual operation. To get the most out of your new flash unit, please read this manual before use.

WARNINGTo avoid injury

Do not fire the flash directly into a persons eyes at close range as this may damage the retina, leading to partial or complete blindness. Avoid touching the front of the flash head while using the SB-28. The flash head generates significant heat during normal operation, which could cause burns. Do not expose the SB-28 to water as this may result in electric shock or cause the unit to catch on fire.
Determine which group your camera belongs to. In this manual, Nikon SLR cameras are divided into seven groups (I to VII) unless otherwise noted. First consult the camera group table to see which group your camera belongs to. Then as you read the manual, you will find specific information on how to use the SB-28 with your particular camera.
Please open the front fold-out page for easy reference.
Camera groups and available flash modes
Group Camera name Flash operation
F5 F100 F90X/N90s1 F90-Series/ NF80-Series/ N80-Series 1,2,3 F70-Series/ N70 1,2 F4-Series F65-Series/ N65-Series1,3 F-801s/ N8008s 1 F-801/ N80081 Pronea 600i/ 6i 1,3 F-601/ NF-601M/ NF60-Series/ NF50-Series/ NF-401x/ NF-501/ NF-401s/ N4004s 1 F-401/ NF-301/ NFM3A FA FE2 FG NikonosV 5
F3-Series 6 New FM2 FM10 FE10
3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash 7 P.26-30 Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash 7 Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash Center-Weighted P.26-30 Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash Programmed TTL AutoFlash

P.31-32

P.33-34

P.35-37

P.38-39 Standard TTL Flash P.26-30 P.31-32 P.33-34 P.42-43 P.46-51 P.49-51 P.52-55

: Available

Sold exclusively in the USA. 2 F80-Series/N80-Series, F70-Series/N70 cannot perform FP High-Speed Flash Sync. 3 Center-Weighted Fill-Flash is not possible. 4 Sold exclusively in the USA and Canada. 5 An optional sync cord for land use is required.

P.40-41

Non-TTL Auto Flash Manual Flash
FP High-Speed Flash Sync Repeating Flash

: Not available

Optional flash Unit coupler AS-4 or AS-7 is required. With AS-17, Standard TTL flash (p. 40-41) is possible, but not Repeating flash. 7 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash are generally referred to as Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor.
* For cameras such as the Nikon F or Nikon F2, refer to Group VII. TTL Auto Flash mode cannot be performed with cameras in this group. If flash is fired with the t indicator appeared on the LCD panel, the flash fires at full output.
For details on the SB-28s available TTL Auto Flash operations, see the separate Quick Reference sheet.

Speedlight parts

Built-in bounce card (P.61) Built-in wide flash adapter (P.21) Flash head (P.13) Red-eye reduction lamp (P.76) Light sensor for Non-TTL Auto Flash operation (P.42) AF assist illuminator LED (P.81) Flash head tilting/rotating lock release button (P.13) Battery chamber lid (P.12) Mounting foot locking wheel (P.14) Mount pin (P.14)
For cameras featuring a safety lock system.
External power source terminal (P.85)
External power source terminal (for European market)* (P.85)
Hot-shoe contacts (P.14) Mounting foot (P.14)
Tilting angle scale (P.60)
Rotating angle scale (P.60) LCD panel (P.5) Terminal cover TTL multiple flash terminal (P.66) Sync/multiple flash terminal (P.70) Ready-light (P.16) Control buttons (P.10)
* Because the European version of the SB-28 comes with a different shaped connector, Nikon DC Units SD-7, SD-8 and the Power Bracket Unit SK-6 are not compatible.

LCD panel indications

All LCD (liquid crystal display) figures and marks do not appear at the same time. They are shown together here for ease of explanation.
Flash mode indicator (P.22) t Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi-Sensor t Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash, Center-Weighted/Spot Fill-Flash t Standard TTL Flash Manual Flash (P.46) % FP High-Speed Flash sync (P.49) " Repeating Flash (P.52) Non-TTL Auto Flash (P.42) 2 Film speed (ISO)/number of repeating flashes per frame/frequency indicators (P.18 / P.52) 3 Flash shooting range indicator bars (P.13)
Red-eye reduction indicator (P.76) 5 Zoom-head position indicator (P.19) 6 Flash output level indicator (P.50) 7 Exposure compensation indicator (P.72) 8 Underexposure indicator (P.28) 9 Exposure compensation/underexposure value (P.72 / P.28) 10 Flash shooting distance scale (m: meter) (P.13) 11 Flash shooting distance scale (ft: feet) (P.13) 12 Standby mode indicator (P.15) 13 AF assist illuminator LED canceled indicator (P.82) 14 Aperture indicator (P.42)

Nikkor lenses without a built-in CPU*
* CPU (Central Processing Unit) acts as an on-board computer. ** IX Nikkor lenses are designed for use with the Nikon Advanced Photo System (IX240) format SLR camera body only and cannot be used with 35mm SLR cameras. ***Except AF Nikkor lenses for the F3AF

Contents

Foreword 2 Camera groups and available flash modes 3 Speedlight parts 4 LCD panel indications 5 Tips on using this manual 6 About this manual 7 Using control buttons 10

Getting started 11

Loading batteries 12 Adjusting the flash head / Selecting the distance scale 13 Attaching the SB-28 to the camera 14 Turning the SB-28 on and off / Standby function 15 The ready-light 16 Test firing 17 Setting the ISO film speed 18 Adjusting the zoom-head position 19-20 Setting the built-in wide flash adapter 21 Selecting a flash mode 22

Basic operation 23

t flash modes 24-25 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group I)26-30 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group II) 31-32 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group III)33-34 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group IV) 35-37 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group V) 38-39 TTL Auto Flash t Mode (For cameras in Group VI) 40-41 Non-TTL Auto Flash Mode (For cameras in all groups) 42-43
Advanced operation 45 Manual Flash Mode (For cameras in all groups) 46-51 Repeating Flash " Mode 52-55 Guide Numbers for determining correct aperture in and " flash modes 56-57 Bounce flash operation 58-61 Close-up flash operation in TTL Auto Flash t Mode 62-64 Multiple flash operation in t and flash modes 65-70 Exposure compensation in flash photography (For cameras in all groups) 71-75 Red-eye reduction control (For cameras in Group I [except F5] and Pronea 600i/6i) 76 Rear-curtain flash sync 77-78 Additional information 79
Checking the correct exposure (For cameras in all groups) 80 Autofocus flash operation in dim light (For autofocus cameras only) 81-82 Optional accessories 83-85 Tips on Speedlight care 86 Notes on batteries 87-88 Troubleshooting 89-90 Specifications 91-95

Using control buttons

By pressing a single button, you can activate frequently used functions. When two buttons are pressed simultaneously, you can activate functions which are not necessary to set each time. For easy reference, refer to the chart on the back of the built-in bounce card.

M ZOOM ONLY

NO AF ILL ON /STBY

(m) / (ft)

ON/OFF

One-button operations

' [ { } ~. = To adjust the zoom-head position (P.19-20) To set the flash mode (P.22) To select and set various functions and values To increase values To decrease values To test fire the flash (P.17) To illuminate the LCD panel (P.5) To turn power on and off (P.15)

Two-button operations

'+{ '+[ +} +=.+= To set or cancel automatic zoom-head adjustment (Buttons must be pressed for 2 sec.) (P.19-20) To readjust the zoom-head position, if built-in wide flash adapter is broken off accidentally (P.21) To turn the AF assist illuminator LED on or off (P.81-82) To cancel or set the standby function (Buttons must be pushed after the flash is turned off.) (P.15) To select the distance scale (meters or feet) (P.13) (Buttons must be pushed after the flash is turned off.)

Getting started

Becoming familiar with the SB-28
Before starting to take flash pictures, you should familiarize yourself with various settings and adjustments of the SB-28, regardless of which Nikon SLR camera you are using.

Loading batteries

Four penlight batteries (1.5V or lower) of any of the following types may be used:
AA-type AA-type AA-type AA-type alkaline-manganese (1.5V) lithium (1.5V) NiCd (rechargeable) (1.2V) Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) (rechargeable) (1.2V)
NOTE : AA-type high-power manganese batteries are not recommended for use with the SB-28.
See pages 87-88, Notes on batteries.
1 Open the battery chamber lid.
penlight following 2 Install fourchamber.batteriesthe battery the + and lid.symbols inside the Close chamber
Various optional external power source DC Units are available for use with the SB-28. See page 85, Using an external power source.
Do not mix battery types or brands, or use old with new batteries.
Adjusting the flash head / Selecting the distance scale

Adjusting the flash head

Hold down the flash head tilting/rotating lock release button while adjusting the flash head to the horizontal/front position.
The flash head tilts/rotates from the horizontal/front position to: 90 (up) 7 (down) 180 (left) 90 (right) The flash head has click stops at 30, 60 and 90 (to the right), 30, 60, 90 120, 150 and 180 (to the left), 7 (down), and 45, 60, 75 and 90 (up).
When the = button is pressed for approx. 0.5 sec. after adjusting the flash head to the horizontal/front position, the power turns on and the flash shooting range indicator bars _ appear on the LCD panel. They do not appear if the flash head is adjusted to a position other than the horizontal/front position. The indicator bars _ blink when the flash head is tilted down to 7.
Selecting the distance scale (meters/feet)
Set the distance scale on the LCD panel to either meters (m) or feet (ft).
1 Press the = button for approx. 0.5 sec. to turn the SB-28 off. 2 Hold down the. button as you press the = button.
To return to the former setting, repeat steps 1 and 2. m (meters) display ft (feet) display
The SB-28 is preset to meters (m) when the SB-28 is shipped from the factory.
Although meters (m) and feet (ft) appear together in this manual for ease of explanation, they do not appear simultaneously on the SB-28s LCD panel.
Attaching the SB-28 to the camera
When attaching the SB-28 to your camera, make sure both units are turned off to avoid accidentally firing the flash. the SB-28's mounting foot 1 Looseninto the cameras accessorylocking wheel and slide the SB-28 shoe.
2 Tighten the locking wheel.
With cameras equipped with a safety lock system, the mount pin is automatically inserted into the locking hole in the cameras accessory shoe to secure the SB-28.

Detaching the SB-28

To detach the SB-28, loosen the mounting foot locking wheel all the way. If the wheel doesnt loosen easily, push the foot forward gently 14 in the direction of the white arrow and try loosening the wheel again.

If the built-in wide flash adapter is broken off accidentally, it is no longer possible to set 18 or 20mm.

Selecting a flash mode

When the button on the back of the SB-28 is pressed, the flash mode indicator sequences through these modes:

t t t Q "

Note that the LCD indications and available flash modes differ depending on which Nikon camera and lens you are using. The table below shows the auto flash mode recommended for use with each camera group.
Refer to the reference pages corresponding to your camera. Camera group I II III IV V VI VII Recommended auto flash mode Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor t Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash t Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash t Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash t Programmed TTL Auto Flash t Standard TTL Flash t Non-TTL Auto Flash Reference page 4243
For available flash operations with the SB-28 and each camera group, refer to the table on the fold-out page at the front of this manual.

Basic operation

Shooting in the auto flash mode
The SB-28 provides a variety of flash modes to cover virtually all shooting situations. These modes range from TTL Auto Flash t to Non-TTL Auto Flash and Manual Flash. In this section, TTL and Non-TTL Auto Flash modes are explained.
TTL Auto Flash t : If your camera is in group I to VI, refer to pages 24-25, t flash modes, to get the most out of TTL automatic flash operations. Non-TTL Auto Flash : If your camera is in Group VII with no TTL Auto Flash t mode available, refer to pages 42-43, Non-TTL Auto Flash mode. This mode can also be used with cameras in all groups.

t flash modes

Six flash operations are possible in the TTL Auto Flash mode:

flash modes

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 Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor** Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash*

Standard TTL Flash

* In combination with the cameras exposure meter and TTL flash sensor, the shutter speed, aperture, and SB-28s flash output are automatically controlled to keep both subject and background correctly exposed. ** 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash are generally referred to as Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor.
3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash
(Applicable to F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F80-Series/N80-Series, F70-Series/N70)
This mode automatically controls flash output to keep both subject and background correctly exposed. The SB-28 fires a series of nearly invisible preflashes, called Monitor Preflash. These preflashes are detected by the TTL multi-sensor in Group I cameras and the data is then integrated with distance information from D-type Nikkor lenses and other exposure data to determine the optimal flash shooting distance range and flash output level for balanced fill-flash exposure. This is especially effective for scenes that include: (1) a mirror, white wall or other highly reflective surface or (2) unwanted obstacles in front of the subject.

4 Check the shooting distance.
A flash shooting distance range of 0.8 to 6m (2.6 to 20 ft) is shown.
With the F5 cameras Custom Setting, you can select 1/300 TTL High-Speed Sync. In this case, you cannot confirm the shooting distance using the indicator bars _ on the SB-28s LCD panel. (See page 30 on Flash shooting distance range in 1/300 TTL High-Speed Flash sync operation.)
for the ready-light come on 5 Wait focus before takingtothe picture.and make sure the subject is in
For cameras in Group I: F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F80-Series/N80-Series, F70-Series/N70
Underexposure indicator Amount of underexposure
If the SB-28s ready-light and the underexposure indicator blink for approx. 3 seconds after shooting, the flash has fired at its maximum output, indicating the light was insufficient for correct exposure. The amount of underexposure (for example, 1.0 to 3.0) also appears on the SB-28's LCD panel. To compensate, use a wider aperture or move closer to the subject and reshoot. You can recall the amount of underexposure last shown on the LCD panel by pressing the. button.
Confirming the flash shooting distance range in TTL Auto Flash t Mode
Applicable to cameras in Groups I and II
The method for confirming the shooting distance differs, depending on the lens in use and the selected exposure mode. Check the flash shooting distance range as described below.
Flash shooting distance range Aperture value
Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU
In Programmed auto (P, Ps) or Shutter-priority auto (S) mode: (1) Set the lens to its minimum aperture (highest f-number) (except G-type Nikkor lenses). (2) Press the shutter release button halfway and check the shooting distance range on the SB-28s LCD panel. In Aperture-priority auto (A) or Manual (M) mode: Check the indicator bars _ and the subjects distance as you rotate the cameras command dial or lens aperture ring to determine the aperture value.
Nikkor lenses without a built-in CPU
In Aperture-priority auto (A) or Manual (M) mode only: (1) While looking at the indicator bars _, press the { or } button to change the aperture and bring the subject within the flash shooting distance range. (2) Note the aperture and set it on the lens.

t, , " , and 1/1 and 1/2 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, 1/64
Even if the number of continuous firings is less than those listed above, its a good idea to let the SB-28 cool off as often as possible when using it in a warm environment.
FP High-Speed Flash sync % in Manual Flash mode For F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90
The SB-28 allows you to use faster shutter speeds for flash synchronization. With FP High-Speed Flash sync %, the flash emits light at an extremely rapid rate, while the shutter curtains travel to expose the film. This enables you to use a faster shutter speed as well as a wider aperture to achieve shallower depth of field to blur the background.
Attach the SB-28 to the camera and turn on both the SB-28 and the camera, then set the SB-28 to FP High-Speed Flash sync %.
Camera settings Set the exposure mode to Manual (M).

Set the aperture.

With Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU: Rotate the command dial on the camera or the lens aperture ring (for F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90 cameras) as you watch the indicator bar on the LCD panel change to match the shooting distance. With Nikkor lenses without a built-in CPU: Press the { or } button to change the aperture on the LCD panel. Then set the same aperture on the lens aperture ring.

3 Set the shutter speed.

Set the shutter speed between 1/250 and 1/4000 sec. The guide number for FP High-Speed Flash sync % varies with the selected shutter speed and is less than that for regular flash synchronization. (See page 51 on % guide numbers.) In the % mode, when taking flash photographs with a shutter speed slower than 1/250 sec., it is recommended to use normal flash operation because the guide number is less in the % mode. If you set the SB-28s flash mode to a mode other than Manual % with your cameras shutter speed set higher than 1/250 sec., the shutter speed is automatically set to 1/250 sec.
For F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90 only
4 Select the flash mode. 5 Set % on the LCD panel.
Press the { or } button until % appears on the LCD panel. The indicator bar on the LCD panel changes to show the shooting distance.

The indicator changes every time you press the } button: 1/1(0.0) 1/2(0.0) 1/2(-0.3) 1/2(-0.7) 1/4(0.0) 1/64(0.0) The indicator changes every time you press the { button: % 1/64(0.0) 1/64(+0.3) 1/64(+0.7) 1/32(0.0) 1/2(0.0)

1/1(0.0)

the come 6 Wait for is in ready-light to taking on and make sure the subject focus before the picture.
A small amount of underexposure may result in a more pleasing photograph by shooting a subject which is further to the right by 1 or 2 steps from the distance represented by the indicator bar on the LCD panel. If the flash-to-subject distance does not match the appropriate shooting distance shown by the indicator bar , choose a different setting for the zoom-head position (smaller than the focal length of the lens in use) or move closer to or farther away from the subject.
% guide numbers (at ISO 100; for meters/feet)
Zoom-head position Shutter speed 1/250 sec. 1/500 sec. 1/1000 sec. 1/2000 sec. 1/4000 sec. 24mm 14/46 10/33 7/23 5/16 3.5/11 28mm 15/50 11/36 7.5/25 5.3/17 3.7/12 35mm 17/56 12/39 8.5/28 6/20 4.2/14 50mm 20/65 14/46 10/33 7/23 5/16 70mm 23/74 16/52 11/36 8/26 5.7/18 85mm 24/77 17/56 12/39 8.5/28 6/20
% guide numbers vary with the ISO film speed, shutter speed, and zoomhead position. Adjustment factors for other ISO film speeds
ISO film speed Factor 25 x 0.x 0.x 1.xx 2.8
For film speeds other than ISO 100, multiply the guide numbers by the factors shown in the above chart.
For example, for a film speed of ISO 400, with the zoom-head adjusted to 35mm, and a shutter speed of 1/500 sec., the % guide number is 12 x 2 = 24 (m), or 39 x 2 = 78 (ft).
Notes on flash photography in FP High-Speed Flash sync %
Do not use the built-in wide flash adapter. When used, M20 or M18, and % blink on the LCD panel as a warning. Detaching the SB-28 When you remove the SB-28 from the F5, F100, F90X/N90s or F90Series/N90, be sure to cancel FP flash operation. If the flash is removed with the FP setting, % blinks as a warning.
Repeating Flash " Mode
For cameras in all groups In the " mode, the SB-28 fires repeatedly during a single exposure, creating stroboscopic multiple-exposure effects. This mode is useful when shooting fast-moving subjects. Flash settings
Press the button until " appear on the LCD panel.
frequency 2 Set the flash output level, theper frame. (Hz), and the number of repeating flashes

Referring to the table on page 53, set the flash output level, the frequency, and the number of repeating flashes per frame separately. Press the [ button until the flash output level starts blinking, then press the { or } button to set the desired flash output level. Finally, press the [ button to stop the flash output level from blinking. Repeat the procedures above to set the frequency and the number of repeating flashes per frame. The numbers blink during adjustment and stop after 8 seconds unless the [ button is pressed. The non-blinking number is the one automatically set. Frequency (Hz) Flash output level Number of repeating flashes per frame
Frequency (Hz) Flash output level Number of repeating flashes per frame
In the example, at 1/8 flash output level, the flash will fire three times per frame at a frequency of 4 flashes per second.
Maximum number of repeating flashes per frame
Flash output level Frequency* Hz 3 Hz 4 Hz 5 Hz 6 Hz 7 Hz 8 Hz 9 Hz 10 Hz Hz M1/4 M1/8 M1/12 M1/24
*Frequency (Hz) represents the number of flashes per second. The higher the number, the shorter the flash firing interval.
3 Set the exposure mode to Manual (M). 4 Set the aperture.
For cameras in Groups I and II with Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU: Change the aperture on the camera as you watch the indicator bar on the LCD panel change to match the shooting distance. For other camera/lens combinations: Press the { or } button to change the aperture on the LCD panel. Then set the same aperture on the lens aperture ring. The indicator bar shows a flash shooting distance in which the correct exposure can be obtained with a single flash firing.

5 Set the shutter speed.

Use the equation to determine the shutter speed.
Number of flashes per frame Shutter speed = Frequency of flashes (Hz)
For example, if the number of flashes per frame is 10 and frequency is 5 Hz, divide 10 by 5 to get a shutter speed of 2 sec. or slower. Or you can set the shutter speed to B (bulb) to accommodate any number of repeating flashes.
Press the ~ button to make sure the flash fires correctly as set.
In the Repeating Flash Mode, use a tripod to prevent camera/flash shake.
Allow the SB-28 to cool off for at least 10 minutes after 10 sequences of repeating flash.
Exposure compensation in Repeating Flash Mode
The flash shooting distance calculated in step number 4 is the correct exposure for the first flash in the sequence. Therefore, repeating flash at this flash output level will result in overexposure of the overlapped images. To prevent this, use a smaller aperture.

To use the SB-28 off-camera, refer to pages 68-69, System chart for TTL multiple flash, for the correct type of optional TTL Remote Cord to use.
To obtain the correct exposure with the SB-28 when used as the main flash and set to 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, cancel Monitor Preflash on the main flash unit by pressing the button until t appears on the LCD panel.
3 Connect the main flash unit to the secondary flash unit(s).
Use one or more TTL Remote Cords SC-18 or SC-19 to connect the SB-28 to the secondary flash unit(s) in series.
Turn off all flash units before connecting. Use Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 when using more than three flash units for TTL multiple flash operation, or if the secondary flash units are not equipped with multiple flash terminals. Use Tripod Adapter AS-11 to attach the SB-16A or SB-17 to a tripod.
4 Set the flash mode on all the flash units to t.
Turn on all flash units and make sure their Standby functions are canceled.
5 Follow the same procedures as in normal TTL Auto Flash t mode.
When all flash units are set to Manual flash mode, Manual multiple flash operation is performed.
TTL multiple flash operation using the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 (optional)
TTL 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 the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4s as 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. Manual multiple flash operation is also possible by setting the flash mode selector to manual (M). These Nikon Speedlights are usable: SB-29, SB-28/28DX, SB-27, SB-26, SB-25, SB-24, SB-23, SB-22s, SB-22, SB-20, SB-18, SB-16B, SB-15 For more information, refer to the instruction manual provided with the SU-4.

make sure the subject is in focus before taking the picture.
In t, or mode, if the ready-light 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 or move closer to the subject.

Additional information

Reference section
In this section, information on troubleshooting and optional accessories is presented. Following that are tips on Speedlight care, notes on batteries, with the SB-28s specifications coming at the end of the manual.
Checking the correct exposure
For cameras in all groups In Non-TTL Auto Flash mode, you can determine whether the subject will receive the correct exposure by test firing the SB-28 before actually taking pictures. the cameras 1 SetManual (M). exposure mode to Aperture-priority auto (A) or the SB-28s button until appears on the 2 Presspanel. LCD
3 Set the same aperture on both the SB-28 and the camera. 4 Check that the SB-28s ready-light is on. check the shooting range indicator 5 Focus on the subject andwithin range. bars _ to make sure its 6 Press the ~ button to fire the flash.
If the ready-light 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 or move closer to the subject.
To determine if the exposure will be correct in TTL Auto Flash t mode, press the button to change the flash mode to the Non-TTL Auto Flash mode. Set the same aperture on the SB-28s LCD panel as in the t mode, then perform test firing. If the ready-light blinks for approx. 3 seconds after shooting, the light will be insufficient for correct exposure in the t mode as well.
Autofocus flash operation in dim light
For autofocus cameras only When the light is too dim for normal autofocus operation, the SB-28s AF assist illuminator LED automatically turns on when set to illuminate dark subjects when the shutter release button is pressed halfway.

(The SD-7, SD-8 and SK-6 not compatible with European version of the SB-28.)
Optional external power sources
Min. recycling Battery type required time* (approx.) External power source SD-7** External power source SD-8/ 8A*** C-type alkalinemanganese (x6) AA-type alkalinemanganese (x6) AA-type NiCd (700 mAh) (x6) AA-type NiCd (1000 mAh) (x6) AA-type Ni-MH (x6) AA-type lithium (x6) AA-type Alkalinemanganese (x4) AA-type NiCd (700mAh) (x4) AA-type NiCd (1000mAh) (x4) AA-type Ni-MH(x4) AA-type lithium (x4) 2.5 sec.
Min. number of flashes/ recycling time (approx.) 200 times/6 sec. 400 times/6-10 sec. 450 times/6-30 sec. 100 times/3.5-5 sec. 200 times/3.5-9 sec. 350 times/6-30 sec. 150 times/2-30 sec. 200 times/2-30 sec.

3.5 sec.

2 sec.
Power Bracket SK-6/ 6A***
2.5 sec. 3.5 sec. 4 sec. 2.5 sec.
200 times/2.5-30 sec 350 times/3.5-30 sec. 250 times/4-30 sec. 100 times/2.5-30 sec. 140 times/2.5-30 sec.

3.0 sec. 4.5 sec.

140 times/3.0-30 sec. 300 times/4.5-30 sec.
* With fresh batteries ** With AA-type alkaline-manganese in the SB-28 ***With same type of batteries in both the external power source and the SB-28 Above data may vary depending on the performance or type of batteries.
Number of flashes and recycling times at full output (with batteries installed in the SB-28)
Batteries 4 AA-type alkalinemanganese 4 AA-type NiCd (700 mAh)
Min. recycling time (approx.) 6.5 sec.
Min. number of flashes/ recycling time (approx.) 150/6.5-30 sec. 60/4-30 sec. 90/4-30 sec. 100/4-30 sec.
4 AA-type NiCd (1000 mAh) 4 sec. 4 AA-type Ni-MH 4 AA-type lithium 7.5 sec.

200/8-30 sec.

Note: Data measured with fresh batteries, but without using AF assist LED, zoom-head position adjustment, or LCD panel illumination.
The red-eye reduction LED lights up for approx. 1 sec. before the flash fires. This function is set on the camera. Applicable to cameras in Group I (except F5) and Pronea 600i/6i. Automatically fires LED beam toward subject when performing autofocus in dim light or in the dark with Nikon AF cameras. Can be canceled. Lights up when SB-28 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 Auto Flash t and mode only). Performs test firing for correct exposure detection in mode or test firing in " mode. Can turn the SB-28 on again after the unit enters standby mode. Allows the SB-28 to be used with 18mm or 20mm lenses. With cameras equipped with a safety lock system, the mount pin is automatically inserted into the locking hole in the cameras accessory shoe to secure the SB-28. Turns on and off every time the. button is pressed. Illumination lasts approx. 16 seconds. Distance scale on the LCD panel can be set to either meters (m) or feet (ft) by pressing the. and = buttons simultaneously with SB-28 turned off.

AF assist illumination Ready-light

FLASH button

Built-in wide flash adapter Safety lock system LCD panel illuminator Flash shooting distance scale
Other features Dimensions (W x H x D) Weight (without batteries) Accessories supplied
External power source terminal, TTL multiple flash terminal, and sync/multiple flash terminal. Approx. 69 x 128 x 90mm (2.7 x 5 x 3.6 in.) Approx. 320g (11.3 oz.) Soft Case SS-28, External power source terminal cap
All performance data are for normal-temperature operation (20C/68F) Specifications and design are subject to change without notice.
Usable aperture/flash shooting distance ranges in TTL Auto t and Non-TTL Auto flash modes
ISO film speed 1600*1 800*2.1.2.5.2.5.5.1.2.5.Shooting distance range (in meters) 25 18mm 20mm 24mm 28mm 35mm 50mm 70mm 85mm 2.320 2.520 3.820 4.020 4.520 5.320 6.020 6.320 1.618 1.820 2.720 2.920 3.220 3.820 4.320 4.520 1.212 1.314 1.920 2.020 2.320 2.720 3.020 3.220 0.89.0 0.910 1.415 1.516 1.618 1.920 2.220 2.220 1.4 0.66.3 0.77.0 1.010 1.011 1.212 1.414 1.516 1.0.64.5 0.65.0 0.77.5 0.78.0 0.89.0 1.010 1.112 1.112 2.8 0.63.1 0.63.5 0.65.3 0.65.6 0.76.3 0.77.4 0.88.4 0.88.0.62.2 0.62.5 0.63.7 0.64.0 0.64.5 0.65.2 0.66.0 0.66.2 5.6 0.61.5 0.61.7 0.62.6 0.62.8 0.63.1 0.63.7 0.64.2 0.64.0.61.1 0.61.2 0.61.8 0.62.0 0.62.2 0.62.6 0.63.0 0.63.0.60.7 0.60.8 0.61.3 0.61.4 0.61.5 0.61.8 0.62.1 0.62.0.6 0.60.9 0.61.0 0.61.1 0.61.3 0.61.5 0.61.5

1.2.5.22 32

1.2.5.22
: Programmed TTL Auto Flash with Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004 and F-301/N2000. (ISO 25 to ISO 400 for F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004) : Non-TTL Auto Flash mode *1: TTL Auto Flash t operation is not possible at this film speed. *2: TTL Auto Flash t is possible for cameras in Groups1to 4 and F-501/N2020 and F-301/N2000. For ISO 1000, use an aperture 1/3 of an f/stop smaller than the aperture for ISO 1600. Usable apertures in the TTL Auto Flash t mode are f/1.4 to f/32, and the usable shooting distance range is 0.6 to 20m.
ISO film speed 1600*1 800*2.1.2.5.2.5.5.32 Shooting distance range (in feet) 25 18mm 20mm 24mm 28mm 35mm 50mm 70mm 85mm 7.466 8.2166 5.359 5.865 8.766 9.1566 3.741 4.146 6.266 6.666 7.466 8.766 9.2.629 2.932 4.449 4.752 5.259 6.166 7.066 7.266 1.4 2.0-20 2.123 3.134 3.337 3.741 4.348 4.955 5.2.014 2.016 2.224 2.426 2.629 3.034 3.539 3.641 2.8 2.010 2.011 2.017 2.018 2.020 2.224 2.527 2.2.07.3 2.08.2 2.012 2.013 2.014 2.017 2.019 2.020 5.6 2.05.2 2.05.7 2.08.6 2.09.2 2.010 2.012 2.013 2.2.03.6 2.04.1 2.06.1 2.06.5 2.07.3 2.08.6 2.09.8 2.2.02.6 2.02.8 2.04.3 2.04.6 2.05.2 2.06.0 2.06.9 2.07.2.0 2.02.0 2.03.0 2.03.2 2.03.6 2.04.3 2.04.9 2.05.1

Preparation

TTL Auto Flash t Mode
The built-in TTL auto flash sensor in cameras so equipped measures the illumination provided by the SB-22s that is reflected back from the subject. This measurement is made through-the-lens and when the light is sufficient to ensure proper exposure, the camera sends a signal to the SB-22s to stop firing. TTL Auto Flash TTL mode* provides simple and effective flash operation, recommended for users with little experience with flash. Cameras usable in the TTL Auto Flash mode
F5 F70-Series/N70*1 F-601/N6006*1 F-301/N2000*2 F4-Series F65-Series/N65-Series*1 F-601M/N6000*1 FM3A F100 F60-Series/N60*1 F-501/N2020*2 FA F90X/N90s*1 F50-Series/N50*1 F-401x/N5005*1 FE2 F90-Series/N90*1 F-801s/N8008s*1 F-401s/N4004s*1 FG F80-Series/N80-Series*1 F-801/N8008*1 F-401/N4004*1 Pronea 600i/6i*1 Nikonos V

Non-TTL Auto Flash Mode

The SB-22ss built-in sensor measures the flash illumination reflected back from the subject, automatically controlling the flash output to give you the correct exposure. This is called the Non-TTL Auto Flash A mode. A choice of four shooting apertures at A1 to A4 are available, covering a variety of shooting distances.

Manual Flash Mode

In this mode, the flash always fires at full output. Manual flash photography is recommended when shooting subjects in which the correct exposure is difficult to obtain in the TTL or Non-TTL Auto Flash mode or when you want to exercise your creative preferences.
Set the SB-22ss POWER switch to OFF, then slide down the battery chamber lid in the direction of the arrow and lift it off.
10 m 0.6 0.9 1.3 ft N 35 mm

READY JAPAN

SB-22s

Instruction Manual

BOUNCE

OFF ON STBY

mode 1 Set your cameras exposuresystem to Aperture-priority auto (A) or Manual (M). Set your cameras metering to any setting.
For Nikon FM3A, New FM2 and FM10 cameras, manually set the shutter speed to the flash sync shutter speed or slower. For other cameras, the shutter speed is automatically set to the flash sync speed. (You can intentionally set the shutter speed to one slower than the flash sync speed.) Refer to your cameras instruction manual for details.

GN(ISO100) 28(m) 92(ft)

Install four penlight batteries following the + and symbols inside the chamber. Reattach the battery chamber lid by aligning the indices on the lid and flash unit and sliding it up as far as it will go.

T1F1000601(S855)11

*1 Sold exclusively in the USA. *2 Sold exclusively in the USA and Canada. TTL Auto Flash TTL mode is not possible with Nikon F3-Series except with the AS-17 attached, New FM2, FM10, FE10 and D1 Series cameras. Use the Non-TTL Auto Flash A mode or Manual M Flash mode instead. If cameras ready-light LED keeps blinking, the camera is not ready for TTL Auto Flash mode. Confirm that the shutter speed is not set to M250, M90, or B). * Depending on the Nikon camera and lens, or finder in use, either one of the following TTL flash operations is possible: Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash, Center-Weighted FillFlash/Spot Fill-Flash, Programmed TTL Auto Flash, or Standard TTL Flash. For more details on TTL flash operation, refer to your cameras instruction manual. 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash is not possible, because the SB-22s has no Monitor Preflash function.
Set the SB-22ss mode selector to either A1, A2, A3 or A4 depending on the aperture selected that brings the subject within the flash shooting distance range. The illuminated f-number shown in the window at left is the aperture you should use.

SPEEDLIGHT SB-22s

A M TTL A A A A
2 Set the flash mode selector to M. shooting distance and 3 Determine thethe shooting distance onfollow the appropriate vertical lineone upward from the distance scale until it meets
of the distance range indicators. Then follow the flash shooting distance range indicator horizontally and you will find the appropriate apertures. Set the appropriate aperture on the camera or lens aperture ring.

2 2.5.m 0.6 0.9 1.3 ft 30 40

N 35 mm

2 2.5.22
Loosen the SB-22ss mounting foot lock nut. Slide the SB-22s into the cameras accessory shoe and tighten the lock nut.
the 3 Wait fortakingready-light to come on and make sure the subject is in focus before the picture.
If the ready-light 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) or move closer to the subject. You can also check if the subject will receive the correct exposure by test firing the SB-22s. Refer to Checking the Correct Exposure.
For example, if the flash-to-subject distance is 5m (16.4 ft.), set the flash mode selector to A4 (f/2.8), A3 (f/4) or A2 (f/5.6) when using ISO 100 film with the angle of coverage adjusted to N-35mm. Underexposure may occur if A1 (f/8) is selected. Using an aperture wider than the maximum aperture of the lens in use is not recommended. To determine the correct flash shooting distance range and aperture, refer to Checking the Correct Exposure.
same aperture as indicated 3 Set thepanel on your camera or lenson the aperture/shooting distance range aperture ring.
To set the aperture on Zoom-Nikkor lenses having variable maximum apertures, refer to Setting Apertures on Zoom-Nikkor Lenses having Variable Maximum Apertures.
For example, when shooting with ISO 100 film, with the angle of coverage adjusted to N-35mm, selecting f/5.6 lets you take pictures of subjects at a distance of approx. 5m (16.4 ft.) away, while f/2.8 lets you take pictures of subjects approx. 10 m (32.8 ft.) away. To determine the correct aperture, use the equation and guide number table: guide number f/stop (aperture) = flash-to-subject distance (m/ft) Guide numbers (m/ft) in M mode at 20C/68F
Film speed (ISO) Normal 35mm 25 14/45.9 10/32.20/65.6 14/45.28/91.9 20/65.40/131.2 28/91.56/183.7 40/131.80/262.5 56/183.110/360.9 080/262.5
Checking the Correct Exposure
or STBY (standby) 4 Set the SB-22ss POWER switchIfto ONthe SB-22s and cameraposition.used both are not

10 m 0.6 0.9 1.3 ft N

Wait for the ready-light to come on and make sure the subject is in focus before taking the picture.

Wide 28mm

Speedlight parts
Note: Setting positions and scales shown on the aperture/shooting distance range panel below may differ from those in actual operation.
Determining an appropriate flash shooting distance range in the TTL Auto Flash TTL mode
Camera and film speed combinations
Because the flash output is automatically controlled by the SB-22s, any Nikon camera/film speed combination can be used. Correct exposure is obtained by setting the same aperture (obtained from the aperture/shooting distance range panel) as set on the camera or lens aperture ring. Exposure compensation is easy to achieve by intentionally changing the aperture on the camera or lens aperture ring.

for after approx. 80 seconds, the SB-22s shuts off automatically and the ready-light goes out to conserve battery power. This is called the standby function. To turn the SB-22s on again after it enters the standby mode, you can lightly press the shutter release button or press the FLASH button once.
Check the aperture set on the camera or lens.
In the TTL Auto Flash mode, you can set any aperture value on the camera or lens aperture ring.
For example, when shooting a subject at a distance of 5m (16.4 ft.) using ISO 100 film with the angle of coverage adjusted to N-35mm (no wide flash adapter), 28 f/stop = (in meters) = 5.91.9 f/stop = (in feet) = approx. 5.6 16.4 Therefore f/5.6 is the correct aperture. To set the aperture on Zoom-Nikkor lenses having variable maximum apertures, refer to Setting Apertures on Zoom-Nikkor Lenses having Variable Maximum Apertures.
distance range 2 Check the shootingflash shooting distance represented by the range indicator which matches the f-number in the aperture scale window.

Ready-light comes on.

Do not use the standby function: If the SB-22s is mounted on Nikon F3-series, New FM2, FM10 or FE10 cameras. If the SB-22s is mounted on Nikon FA or FE2 cameras and the shutter speed is set to M250 or B (bulb). If the SB-22s is mounted on Nikon FG or Nikonos V cameras and the shutter speed is set to M90 or B (bulb). If the SB-22s is mounted on a Nikonos V with an optional sync cord for land use connected and the shutter speed is set to M90 or B (bulb). If the SB-22s is mounted on a Nikon FM3A camera and the shutter speed is set to B (bulb). The standby function does not work: If the SB-22s is mounted on Nikon FA or FE2 cameras with Motor Drive MD-12 attached and Remote Code MC-4A (or MC-10) is connected.
For example, selecting f/4 lets you get the flash shooting distance range from 0.9m to N 35 mm 7.0m (3 ft. to 23 ft.) with angle of coverage at OFF ON STBY FLASH READY BOUNCE N-35mm and a film speed of ISO 100. JAPAN In this case, underexposure may occur when the subject is more than 7.0 m (23 ft.) away. For other shooting distance ranges, apertures, and ISO film speeds, refer to the table below.
the 4 Wait fortakingready-light to come on and make sure the subject is in focus before the picture.
Setting Apertures on Zoom-Nikkor Lenses having Variable Maximum Apertures

For example, F4-Series, F90X/ N90s, F90-Series/ N90, F70-Series/ N70, F-801s/ N8008s, F-801/N8008, F-601/N6006, F-601M / N6000 cameras with Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU* Check and set the aperture on the LCD panel after zooming in or out to determine the focal length setting. In this way, the variable aperture will be automatically compensated by the camera.
*Nikkor lenses with a built-in CPU incorporate CPU contacts. (See the figure on the right.) **G-type Nikkor lenses have no aperture ring. The aperture should therefore be selected from the camera body. Unlike other CPU Nikkor lenses, the aperture does not need to be set to its minimum. CPU contacts
Align the aperture ring between the green and yellow aperture indexes after zooming in or out to determine the focal length setting. If the zoom lens has a maximum aperture difference of approx. 1 or more f/stop between the longest and shortest focal length positions (see the figures below), align the aperture ring with the green aperture index for a wide setting, and align the aperture with the yellow aperture index for a telephoto setting. For intermediate focal length settings, set the aperture ring somewhere between the green and yellow aperture indexes depending on the focal length in use. Setting the aperture to f/5.6 on the AF Zoom-Nikkor 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6 lens
Yellow aperture index Close to yellow aperture index Close to green aperture index Green aperture index
At 120mm focal length setting
At 100mm focal length setting
At 50mm focal length setting
At 24mm focal length setting

4 5.m 0.6 0.9 1.ft 30 40

Usable apertures with corresponding flash shooting distance ranges
Flash mode selector in A mode 100 ISO film speed 200 1.4 1.4 1.4 A4 A3 A2 A1 1.2.5.2 2.5.2 2.5.2.5.2.5.45

800 (10001 )

Exposure Compensation in Flash Photography
Some plus compensation may be necessary when the background includes a mirror, white wall, or other highly reflective surface. Otherwise, underexposed pictures might occur. Similarly, some minus compensation may be required when the background is dark or includes subjects of low reflectivity to prevent overexposed pictures. In these cases, making exposure compensation is recommended to obtain the correct exposure. Normally, exposure compensation within the range of 2 to +1 steps is recommended.

With exposure compensation Without exposure compensation
Autofocus Flash Operation in Dim Light
For autofocus cameras only
When the light is too dim for normal autofocus operation, the SB-22ss AF assist illuminator LED automatically turns on to illuminate dark subjects when the shutter release button is pressed halfway. The AF assist illuminator LED turns off as soon as the subject is in focus.
Shooting distance range Unit: m (ft) 5.N-35mm
3.2 - 20.0 (10.5 - 65.6) 2.2 - 17.0 (7.2 - 55.8) 1.8 - 14.0 (5.9 - 45.9) 1.3 - 10.0 (4.3 - 32.8) 0.9 - 7.0 (3.0 - 23.0) 0.6 - 5.0 (2.0 - 16.4) 0.6 - 3.5 (2.0 - 11.5) 0.6 - 2.5 (2.0 - 8.2) 0.6 - 1.7 (2.0 - 5.6) 0.6 - 1.2 (2.0 - 3.9)

W-28mm

2.2 - 17.0 (7.2 - 55.8) 1.6 - 12.0 (5.2 - 39.3) 1.3 - 10.0 (4.3 - 32.8) 0.9 - 7.0 (3.0 - 23.0) 0.6 - 5.0 (2.0 - 16.4) 0.6 - 3.5 (2.0 - 11.5) 0.6 - 2.5 (2.0 - 8.2) 0.6 - 1.7 (2.0 - 5.6) 0.6 - 1.2 (2.0 - 3.9) 0.6 - 0.9 (2.0 - 3.0)

2.5.45 64

92(ft)

GN(ISO100) 28(m)

is 7 Preparation thecomplete.available flash modes: Now, refer to following
TTL Auto Flash TTL mode Non-TTL Auto Flash A mode Manual M mode Or other advanced flash techniques on the reverse side of this sheet
Battery chamber lid indices Bounce angle indicators Battery chamber lid Mounting foot lock nut Mounting foot Flash head AF assist illuminator LED window Light sensor for non-TTL auto flash operation Mount pin (for cameras featuring a safety lock system) Hot-shoe contacts Wide flash adapter lock release button Sync/multiple flash terminal Built-in wide flash adapter Aperture/shooting distance range panel
Flash mode indicator LED Flash mode selector Film speed (ISO) scale Film speed (ISO) selector Film speed (ISO) index Aperture scale (for non-TTL mode) Aperture scale BOUNCE indicator LED POWER switch Flash shooting distance range indicators Distance scale (meters/feet) Angle of coverage (N-35mm/W-28mm) index windows Ready-light FLASH button
The subject must be within the range of 1m (3.3 ft) to 5m (16.4 ft) at 20C (68F). Replace the SB-22ss batteries whenever the ready-light becomes dark or blinks after the AF assist illuminator LED turns on. If the AF assist illuminator LED comes on but no in-focus indicator appears in the cameras viewfinder with the shutter release button pressed halfway, the subject is either too far away or too dark for the camera AF-sensor even with the AF assist illuminator LED. In this case, set the flash mode selector to Manual M and focus manually.

The ready-light

Lights up : Indicates the SB-22s is recycled

and ready to fire.

Blinks :
In TTL or Non-TTL Auto flash mode, if the ready-light 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) or move closer to the subject.

Use an aperture 1/3 of an f/stop smaller than those shown in the table. 2 Not possible in TTL mode
Exposure compensation in TTL Auto Flash TTL mode
Make exposure compensation on the camera to match the shooting situation. Consult the instruction manual provided with your camera for specific information on procedures for 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 shadows, use some minus compensation.
Determining whether the subject will receive the correct exposure in TTL and Non-TTL Auto Flash modes by test firing the SB-22s.
1 Follow the same procedures as in TTL Auto Flash TTL or Non-TTL Auto Flash A mode.
In TTL mode, set the flash mode selector to either A1, A2, A3 or A4 to line up the same aperture set on the camera or lens aperture ring with that indicated on the aperture/shooting distance range panel. If the apertures are out of the range of available apertures possible at A1 to A4, the correct exposure cannot be determined before shooting.
Conditions necessary to activate the AF assist illuminator LED:
The subject must be sufficiently dark. AF Nikkor lenses must be used. Lenses from 24mm (35mm for F-501/N2020**) to 105mm are recommended. The cameras autofocus mode is set to Single Servo Autofocus (Set cameras focus mode selector to AF for F50-series/N50*, and A for F-401x/N5005*, F-401s/N4004s* and F-401/N4004*). Focus lock is not employed. The SB-22ss ready-light is on.
*Sold exclusively in the USA **Sold exclusively in the USA and Canada
Refer to the following table to determine if your batteries should be replaced or recharged. (For more information, see Notes on Batteries.)
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. Recharge batteries. Remedy Replace batteries.
Exposure compensation in Non-TTL Auto Flash A mode
Set a different aperture on the camera or lens aperture ring without changing the flash mode selector. When shooting a subject containing highly reflective surfaces, set a larger aperture (smaller f-number). When the background is very dark, or the subject is in deep shadows, set a smaller aperture (larger f-number).

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.
2 Wait fortothe ready-light to come on and press the SB-22ss FLASH button fire the flash.
If the ready-light 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) or move close to the subject.
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) than the one calculated. For an underexposed picture, use a smaller aperture (larger f-number).

NIKON CORPORATION

FUJI BLDG., 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO 100-8331, JAPAN Printed in Japan

Bounce Flash

When taking pictures indoors, direct flash often causes harsh, unattractive shadows on the subject or background. By bouncing the light off the ceiling or walls, you can soften the shadows and produce more natural-looking portraits.
Bounce flash using diffused light Normal flash using direct flash

Close-Up Flash

In TTL Auto Flash TTL mode, when shooting subjects such as flowers or insects closer than 0.6m (2 ft), use your SB-22s off camera and utilize its built-in wide flash adapter to take close-up pictures with flash.
Setting the Built-In Wide Flash Adapter
The SB-22s comes with a wide flash adapter to increase the angle of coverage to match a 28mm lens. The guide number is reduced from 28 to 20 (ISO 100, meters) when the built-in wide flash adapter is used.

Troubleshooting

Warning indicator Cause POWER switch is turned OFF. Batteries are not installed correctly. Ready-light does not come on. Battery power is weak. Standby function is in operation. Contacts in the battery chamber (SB-22s) or battery electrodes are corroded. Ready-light blinks for approx. 3 sec. after shooting. Subject is out of the flash shooting distance range. Batteries are exhausted. Reference/remedy Preparation (4) Preparation (2) The Ready-Light Preparation (4) Clean the contacts or electrodes.

WARNING

Never attempt to disassemble or repair the SB-22s yourself as this may cause electric shock or cause the unit to malfunction, leading to possible injury. Do not drop the SB-22s or hit it against a hard surface. If dropped, do not touch the metal portions inside the flash, because they could cause electric shock or injury. Remove the batteries and take the unit to your local Nikon dealer for repair. If you detect heat, smoke, or the smell of burning, stop operation immediately and remove the batteries to prevent the unit from catching on fire or burning. Let the SB-22s cool down sufficiently before removing batteries. Then take the unit to your local Nikon dealer for repair. The SB-22s should not be exposed to rain or saltwater. If water gets inside the SB-22s, this can cause electric shock or cause the unit to catch on fire. Also never touch the flash unit with wet hands. Do not operate the SB-22s 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 batteries at the same time, do not mix battery types or brands, do not use old with new batteries, and never reverse the polarity of the batteries when installing. 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.

If the angle of the flash head is not far enough off axis from the subject, uneven illumination will result from a combination of direct and bounced flash.

2 2.5.11 16

Do not fire the flash directly into a persons eyes at close range as this may damage the retina, leading to partial or complete blindness. Keep the SB-22s out of the reach of children. This will prevent them from swallowing batteries or getting an electric shock. Do not throw used batteries into a fire. Do not short circuit, disassemble, or heat a battery; this may cause it to explode or catch on fire.
Any metering system is acceptable. For Nikon FM3A, New FM2 and FM10 cameras, manually set the shutter speed to the flash sync shutter speed or slower. For other cameras, the shutter speed is automatically set to the flash sync speed. (Or you can intentionally set the shutter speed to one slower than the flash sync speed.) Refer to your cameras instruction manual for details.
Detaching the wide flash adapter
Correct exposure cannot be obtained in non-TTL auto flash A mode.
the built-in 4 Set subject. wide flash adapter. Then adjust the flash head toward the
Refer to Setting the Built-In Wide Flash Adapter. The angle of coverage changes from N-35mm to W-28mm.
the SB-22ss flash mode A1, 3 Set aperture on the camera orselector to TTL,ring. A2, A3 or A4, then set the lens aperture
1 Tilt the flash head to the 90 position. the wide 2 While pushinginside the flash adapter.lock button adapter back flash head

, slide the wide flash

I SO 2.5.11 16
With bounce flash, there is a 2 to 3 stop light loss when compared with normal TTL or nonTTL auto flash modes. Therefore, you should open up the lens by 2 to 3 stops (use smaller f-numbers) and bracket your exposures, whenever possible. For details on the flash mode selector (TTL, A1-A4) and aperture values, refer to TTL Auto Flash TTL Mode, Non-TTL Auto Flash A Mode, or Checking the Correct Exposure.
the aperture on the lens 5 Set f/stop using the equationaperture ring or on the camera by calculating the and table below.
coefficient f/stop (aperture) flash-to-subject distance (m/ft) ISO film speed and coefficient (m/ft)
ISO film speed Coefficient 25 1.5 (4.9) 50 2.2 (7.2) (9.8) 200 4.3 (14) (20) 800 8.5 (27.9) 1000 9.6 (31.5)

Notes on Batteries

Handling 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 (14 F) for alkalinemanganese and 0C (32F) for zinc-carbon batteries. In either case, battery performance may differ with each brand, due to modification in specifications or improvement in performance. Using lithium batteries 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, allowing their temperature to return to normal. Using rechargeable NiCd and Ni-MH batteries Overcharging and excessive use may shorten battery life. Always make certain to turn the SB-22s 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.

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 not be charged in a battery charger as they may become hot, catch on fire, explode, or leak corrosive liquids.
If the ready-light 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 or reduce the distance between the subject and the SB-22s, where the distance is measured from the flash to the bounce surface and back again to the subject. You can also check if the subject will receive the correct exposure by test firing the SB-22s. Refer to Checking the Correct Exposure.
For example, with a subject 0.5m (1.6 ft.) away from the SB-22ss flash head using ISO 100 film and the wide flash adapter in place, the suggested aperture is: 3 0.5 9.8 f/stop 1.6 f/stop (in meters) = 6 (in feet) = approx. 6
3 Return the flash head to its original position
Therefore, you should use f/6 or smaller (larger f-number), such as f/8, f/11 or f/16.
When shooting subjects closer than 1 m (3.3 ft.)
Tilt the flash head down to the -7 position when shooting subjects 1 m (approx. 3.3 ft.) or closer to give sufficient light to the subject with the SB-22s mounted on camera. The BOUNCE indicator LED blinks when the flash head is tilted down to -7. Use of the wide flash adapter is recommended.
the 6 Wait fortakingready-light to come on and make sure the subject is in focus before the picture.
If the ready-light 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) or move closer to the subject.

Specifications

Electronic construction Automatic Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) and series circuitry. Power source Four AA-type zinc-carbon, alkaline-manganese, lithium (1.5V), NiCd (rechargeable) or Ni-MH (rechargeable) penlight batteries. Guide number (at ISO 100, m) 28 at N-35mm; 20 at W-28mm (with wide flash adapter) Angle of coverage
Horizontal Vertical Usable lens 35mm or longer 28mm or longer

ISO 5.32

m 0.ft 2

Multiple Flash Operation

To eliminate harsh shadows produced by a single flash unit, add additional illumination to the background, or create special lighting effects not possible with a single flash unit, you can attach Nikon Speedlights in series.
Flash shooting with more than one unit Flash shooting with one flash unit

Optional Accessories

TTL multiple flash operation NOTE
TTL multiple flash operation is not possible with Nikon New FM2, FM10, FE10 and D1 Series cameras. In this case, perform non-TTL or manual multiple flash operation using the SU-4.
The SB-22ss sync/multiple flash terminal
This terminal is provided for connecting the SB-22s to your camera using Sync Cord SC-11 or SC-15 (for instance, if your camera does not have an accessory shoe) or when you want to perform Multiple Flash photography in Manual M mode with the SB-22s.

N-35mm W-28mm

ON ST OFF

BOUN CE

(ft) ) 92 28(m 100) GN(ISO
1 Or use the TTL Remote Cord SC-17/SC-24 or Power Bracket Unit SK-6 instead. main flash unit the unit(s) 2 Connect themore TTL RemotetoCordssecondary flashthe TTL Multi-Flash Use one or SC-18/SC-19 or
Connect the main flash unit to the camera directly.
Multiple flash operation can be accomplished in two ways: (1) by connecting a Speedlight to the camera using a sync or remote cord such as TTL Remote Cord SC-17 or (2) by mounting a Speedlight on the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 (optional). In both cases, TTL multiple flash operation is possible with Nikon cameras in the TTL Auto Flash mode. Adapter AS-10. Use the Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 to control remotely one or more slave flash units in the TTL flash mode. For other optional remote cords, refer to Optional Accessories.
When the SB-22ss sync terminal is connected to your camera via the Sync Cord SC-11 or SC-15, automatic flash sync speed setting and viewfinder ready-light no longer function. To retain these features, use optional TTL Remote Cord SC-17 or SC-24 which attach directly to your cameras accessory shoe. Sync Cord SC-11 and SC-15 Sync Cords SC-11 and SC-15 are handy when you want to use the SB-22s off-camera or for use with cameras without accessory shoes. The SC-11 is approx. 25 cm (9.8 in.) long and the SC-15 is approx. 1m (3.2 ft) long. Use Sync Terminal Adapter AS-15 when connecting the SB-22s to cameras not having a sync terminal. TTL Remote Cord SC-17 and SC-24 The TTL Remote Cords SC-17/24 provide TTL Auto Flash operation when the SB-22s is used off-camera. It comes with one tripod socket and two TTL multiple flash terminals. Both the SC-17 and SC-24 are approx. 1.5m (4.9 ft) long. TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18 and SC-19 Multi-Flash Sync Cords SC-18 or SC-19 are useful for connecting the SB-22s to the multiple flash terminal of the SC-17 (SC-24) or AS-10 for TTL multiple flash operation. The SC-18 is approx. 1.5 m (4.9 ft) long, and the SC-19 is approx. 3 m (9.8 ft) long. TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 Use Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 when connecting more than three flash units together for TTL multiple flash operation, or if the secondary flash units are not equipped with multiple flash terminals. The AS-10 comes with one tripod socket and three TTL multiple flash terminals. Sync Terminal Adapter AS-15 The Sync Terminal Adapter AS-15 is necessary when using Sync Cords SC-11/SC-15 to connect the flash unit to cameras not having a sync terminal. Flash Unit Coupler AS-4 and AS-7 Necessary when mounting the SB-22s on F3-series cameras. In this case, TTL auto flash is not possible. Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4 Useful for multiple flash photography, the SU-4 features a built-in, movable light sensor and an accessory shoe for attachment of a slave Speedlight. The SU-4s light sensor not only triggers the slave unit to fire in unison with the master flash, but controls the flash duration of the slave unit in sync with the master unit to provide TTL, non-TTL, or Manual operation. TTL Flash Unit Coupler AS-17 for F3-Series cameras Dedicated adapter for F3-Series cameras providing TTL flash operation with Nikon Speedlights such as SB-29 and SB-28 featuring ISO-type mounting foot (not designed for F3).

Bounce capability Flash head can be tilted down to -7 or up to 90. The BOUNCE indicator LED blinks whenever the flash head is tilted. POWER switch Three positions are provided: OFF, ON and STBY (standby). At STBY position: the SB-22s automatically turns itself off to conserve battery when the flash is not used for approx. 80 seconds. Number of flashes and recycling times
Batteries*1 AA-type zinc-carbon AA-type alkaline-manganese AA-type NiCd (700mAh)*4 AA-type Ni-MH (1200mAh) AA-type lithium (1.5V)
Min. recycling time (approx.)*2 No. of flashes (approx.)*3
Set each flash unit by considering its direction and distance.
Please note that the brightness of flash illumination is inversely proportional to 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 Speedlights. For example, if the flash-to-subject distance is a reference unit of 1 (e.g., 1m), 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. For details on connections, refer to the SC-17, SC-18, SC-19, or SC-24s instruction manual.
10 sec. 5 sec. 3.6 sec. 4.5 sec. 5.5 sec.
Notes on multiple flash operation using a sync or remote cord:
SB-11, SB-14, SB-140 and SB-21B Speedlights cannot be used with Nikon F-401/N4004 or F-401s/N4004s as either main or secondary units. In multiple flash operation, if the electric current in the synchro circuit exceeds a certain level, you may not be able to take a second shot after the first. In this case, disconnect the main flash unit from the camera. This resets the circuits so you can resume shooting. In multiple flash operation, take care that the combined total of the coefficients in the table below for all flash units used together does not exceed 20 at 20C (68F), or 13 at 40C (104F). Speedlight coefficient per each unit
Speedlight SB-50DX, SB-29, SB-28/28DX, SB-27, SB-26, SB-25, SB-24, SB-22s, SB-14, SB-11, SB-140 SB-23, SB-21, SB-17, SB-16, SB-15 SB-22 SB-20
Coefficient numbers are in units of 70A.
4 Turn on all flash units and make sure their standby functions are not activated. Set the flash mode on all flash units to TTL. Follow the same procedures as in normal TTL Auto Flash TTL mode.
Manual multiple flash operation
*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 at an interval of 30 seconds without using the AF assist illuminator LED. *mAh NiCd batteries provide approx. 1.4 times the number of flashes of 700 mAh NiCd batteries with the same recycling time.

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.