Repeating Flash

When used with any Nikon SLR, the SB-25 is capable of strobo-effect multiple flash exposure at up to 160 flash per frame; it also allows control of the amount of flash light output. Operation becomes simple once you learn how to match the number and speed of flash to your desired shutter speed. For details, see Repeating Flash Mode For Multiple Exposure, pages 90 to 95.
SB-25 Feature Comparison: Flash Operations Available with Your Camera
F9 0S F4 er -S ies F- erie /Ns F- /N F- s/ N1 F- /N 60 s F- M/ N6 1x 00 F50 /NF- /N 20 1/ 20 F- N F- /N 40 1s 04 FA / N FE s 2 FG pa ge s
Repeating flash mode offers strobo effect, multiple exposure on a single frame. 16
TTL Auto Flash 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash Center-Weighted Fill-Flash Spot Fill-Flash Programmed TTL Auto Flash Standard TTL Flash Non-TTL Auto Flash Manual Flash Repeating Flash (strobo effect) FP High-Speed Sync Flash Red-Eye Reduction Control Rear-Curtain Sync Flash Flash Exposure Compensation Open Flash Button (test firing) Built-in Wide Flash Adapter Zoom-Lock Capability AF Assist LED Standby Position (power switch) Bounce Flash (built-in diffuser card) Close-up Photography (TTL Auto Flash) Multiple Flash Photography
1) 1) 2) 2) 2) 3) 3) 4) 1) 2) 2) 2) 3) 3) 4) 1) 2) 3) 1) 2) 2) 2) 3) 3) 5) 5) 6) 6) 5) 5) 6) 6) 7) 7) 7) 7)
For details regarding your camera, see pages: 1) 33 to 39. 2) 40 to 47. 3) 48 to 56. 4) 57 to 63. 5) 64 to 69. 6) 70 to 75. 7) 76 to 79.

126 132

N ik o F3 nos -S V F2 erie -S s FM erie 2 s FG -2 0

Page 18

Chapter 2

Before Flash Shooting

Page 20

WARNING TO AVOID INJURY

DO NOT FIRE FLASH NEAR THE EYES: Firing the flash light very close to any persons eyes can injure the retina, thereby weakening eyesight or causing blindness. DO NOT TOUCH THE FLASH HEAD WHEN FIRING THE SB-25: The flash head generates significant heat during normal operation, which may cause burns. Also, when using the flash, keep delicate materials away from the flash head.
Getting Started SB-25 Set-Up
This section introduces preparations for using the SB-25, such as installing batteries, attaching flash unit to your camera, and finally, turning the unit on. Follow these steps in order, especially when using for the first time. This section should serve as a practical guide for later reference.
Selecting Measurement System, Meters or Feet

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.

Page 26

Chapter 2 Adjustment Functions
Using LCD Panel For Shooting-Distance Computation
Note: All LCD (liquid crystal display) figures and marks do not appear simultaneously, as shown below. They are shown together for ease of explanation.
Setting ISO Film Speed (Manual Adjustment)
Flash mode selector for Non-TTL Auto Flash exposure control for Manual Flash exposure control for repeating flash for TTL Auto Flash exposure control Exposure compensation indicator Underexposure indicator
Flash sync mode selector LCD panel
Flash mode indicator Film speed/Repeating flash indicator
Confirming flash shooting distance is an indispensable step for successful flash photography. The SB-25 can be used to compute the appropriate distance range. An appropriate flash shooting distance is determined using the following variables: ISO FILM SPEED IN USE APERTURE VALUE ZOOM-HEAD POSITION Indicator bars will appear to show a proper shooting distance range only after all those variables have been set in the LCD panel.
Exposure compensation/ underexposure value Red-eye reduction control indicator Light amount indicator
Flash shooting distance scale Zoom-head position indicator

TTL Auto Flash

Mode: For F90-Series/N90 Users
TTL Auto Flash Mode: See pages For N90/F90 Users For F4-Series, F-801/N8008, and F-801s/N8000s Users For F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 Users For F-401x/N5005 Users For F-501/N2020 and F-301/N2000 Users For F-401/N4004 and F-401s/N4004s Users For FA, FE2, FG and Nikonos V users 76 79

Choosing A Flash Method

The SB-25 enables you to perform any of the following fully automatic fill-flash functions, or choose Standard TTL Flash. (Functions are described in detail on pages 10 to 13.): 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Center-Weighted Fill-Flash Spot Fill-Flash Use the chart at right to confirm which flash method you will perform with the lens in use and metering system set on the camera. In most cases, the lens/meter combination determines the flash method. If you have extra lens(es), you may be able to select a particular flash method. For example, by replacing a D-Type AF Nikkor with an AI-P lens, you can switch from 3D MultiSensor to Multi-Sensor Fill-Flash. By using the SB-25s button, you can perform Standard TTL Flash (except for P and Ps exposure modes), regardless of lens type. Flash Methods: F90-Series/N90 Settings and Lenses
Lens in Use 1) Cameras Metering System Cameras Exposure Mode Programmed auto (P, Ps) 4) D-Type Shutter-priority auto (S) AF Nikkor Aperture-priority auto (A) Lenses Manual (M) Programmed auto (P, Ps) 4) AF Nikkor Shutter-priority auto (S) lenses 2) AI-P lens- Aperture-priority auto (A) es Manual (M) Other lenses 3) Aperture-Priority auto (A) 5) Manual (M) 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Matrix CenterWeighted Spot
Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash
Center-Weighted Fill-Flash

Spot FillFlash

Flash Methods in TTL Auto Flash Mode 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash Center-Weighted Fill-Flash Spot Fill-Flash Standard TTL Flash
1) Suitable lenses and use depend on camera; see instruction manual for information. 2) Except D-Type and AF Nikkor lenses for F3AF. 3) You can not use the Ps mode as the shutter locks. 4) Only 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced or Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash can be button cannot be performed; Standard TTL Flash is not available and the used. 5) Exposure mode (P or S) automatically shifts to aperture-priority auto (A), and the mode indication blinks in the cameras LCD panel; set desired aperture manually.

Page 34

Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash Mode: For F90-Series/N90 Users

Set Up and Practice

Some operations can be controlled automatically when the camera is used with an AF Nikkor lens (including the latest D-Type) or Nikkor lens having a built-in CPU. In other cases, operate manually. The following instructions describe a situation where you are using either a D-type Nikkor to operate 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash, or an AF Nikkor (except for F3AF) or AIP lens to operate Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash. With other lenses, Center-Weighted or Spot Fill-Flash will be performed. 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.

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

Page 40

Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash Mode: For F4-Series, F-801/N8008 and F-801s/N8008s Users

The SB-25 enables you to perform the following flash methods. They are described in detail on pages 10 to 13. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash Center-Weighted Fill-Flash Spot Fill-Flash (not available with the F4-Series or F-801/N8008) Standard TTL Flash Use the chart at right to confirm which flash method you will perform with your camera, the lens in use and the metering system set on the camera. In most cases, the lens/meter combination determines the flash method. In other cases, you may have to switch metering systems, change lenses, or both. By using the SB-25s button, you can also choose Standard TTL Flash, regardless of lens type. For practice, read Set Up and Practice, from page 42 on. Flash Methods: F4-Series Settings and Lenses
Lens in Use 1) (with MultiFinder DP-20) 2) Cameras Metering System Cameras Exposure Mode Matrix Programmed auto (P, PH) Shutter-priority auto (S) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M) CenterWeighted Lens in Use 1) Spot Programmed auto (PD, P, PH) Shutter-priority auto (S) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M) Aperture-priority auto (A) 5) Manual (M) Cameras Exposure Mode Matrix
Flash Methods: F-801/N8008 Settings and Lenses
Cameras Metering System CenterWeighted
Flash Methods: F-801s/N8008s Settings and Lenses
Cameras Metering System Lens in Use 1) Cameras Exposure Mode Matrix Programmed auto (PD, P, PH) Shutter-priority auto (S) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M) Aperture-priority auto (A) 5) Manual (M) CenterWeighted Spot
AF Nikkor lenses 3) AI-P lenses
Center- Standard Matrix Balanced Weighted TTL Flash Fill-Flash Fill-Flash
Matrix Balanced FillFlash

CenterWeighted FillFlash

Matrix CenterBalanced Weighted Spot FillFlash Fill-Flash Fill-Flash
AF Teleconverter/ Aperture-priority AF Nikkor auto (A) 4) lenses for F3AF/AItype Nikkor lenses Manual (M) (including AI-S) Programmed auto (P, PH) Shutter-priority Other lenses auto (S) Aperture-priority auto (A) Manual (M)
Other lenses Center- Standard Matrix Balanced Weighted TTL Flash Fill-Flash Fill-Flash
Center-Weighted Fill-Flash 6)

Lens not set at smallest aperture. Set lens to the smallest aperture. Shutter locks.

Programmed auto

+ value appears in electronic analog display (F-601/N6006). HI appears in shutter speed position (F-601M/N6000).
Background may be overexposed.
Use a lower ISO film, or add a neutral density filter or circular polarizer.
Fully depress shutter release button to fire flash. Recheck ready-light to see if it is blinking.
value appears in electronic analog display (F-601/N6006).
Background may be underexposed.
If necessary, switch to slow sync to obtain shower shutter speed or switch to shutterpriority auto exposure mode to select slower shutter speed.
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. Next, reconfirm shooting distance and, if necessary, move closer to the subject or select a wider aperture (in aperturepriority auto or manual exposure mode) to compensate underexposure.

Shutter-priority auto

Lens maximum aperture appears with electronic analog display.
If necessary, select slower shutter speed.
+ value appears in electronic analog display. HI appears in shutter speed position (F-601M/N6000).
If necessary, select faster shutter speed.

Page 56

Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash Mode: For F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 Users TTL Auto Flash Mode: For F-401x/N5005 Users
F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 warning indications (continued) Exposure mode/LCD panel/Viewfinder Cause Background may be underexposed. Troubleshooting If necessary, select a wider aperture. If under exposure display stays on, change from normal to slow sync, though shutter speed becomes slower.

Scale appears

The SB-25 enables you to perform Matrix Balanced or Center-Weighted Fill-Flash. These functions are described in detail on pages 10 and 11. You can choose Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash when using programmed auto, shutter-priority or aperture-priority exposure mode, or Center-Weighted Fill-Flash when using manual exposure mode (see the chart at right).

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

Check whether subject falls within the range of the shooting distance indicator bars in the SB-25s LCD panel. If not, move closer to subject or select a wider aperture (when aperture-priority auto or manual exposure mode), then repeat steps 7 and 8.
* This operation is important for reading the appropriate shooting distance from the indicator bars (step 8); setting a wrong aperture value on the SB-25 does not affect all TTL Auto Flash operations a shot will be taken with the aperture set on the camera.

Page 68

Firing Flash Shutter speed/aperture settings in Programmed TTL Auto Flash The camera automatically locks the shutter release at 1/125 sec. Aperture value is automatically controlled to correspond with the film in use.
Film speed and corresponding controlled aperture ISO film speed Controlled aperture 25 f/2.f/f/5.f/f/f/f/16+1/3 f/stop
Look into camera viewfinder, compose and lightly press the shutter release button. Confirm ready-light has come on and subject is in focus. Check that ready-light is on in camera viewfinder or on the SB-25. Check whether subject is in focus.

Page 70

Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash Mode: For F-401/N4004 and F-401s/N4004s Users
The SB-25 can be used in the same manner as the cameras built-in TTL flash, but offers more powerful light output and a greater shooting distance range. The SB-25s setting takes full advantage of the F-401/N4004 and F-401s/N4004s multi-sensor metering system for flash photography. Is the scene bright or dark, and which is brighter the subject or background? The algorithm in the metering system checks the amount of light based on these questions, and the camera asks through the viewfinder whether you choose to use the flash or not. In any case, if you decide to use the flash, the camera automatically sets the most appropriate flash method for your shooting situation: Programmed TTL Auto Flash or Standard TTL Flash. Use the chart in the next page to confirm available flash/exposure mode combinations. Programmed TTL Auto Flash When light is low and the flash is needed, the camera asks you to confirm whether you wish to use the flash. If you decide to use it in programmed auto or shutter-priority exposure mode, the right aperture and shutter speed are automatically selected by the camera. Flash output is controlled by the Speedlight to correctly expose the subject. Standard TTL Flash When using aperture-priority auto or manual exposure mode, you will be asked to confirm flash use, the same as above. Flash output is controlled by the Speedlight for a correctly exposed subject. Shutter-speed and/or aperture setting(s) can be selected by the user. TTL Auto flash mode F-401s/N4004s

Page 74

Firing Flash Guide to determining aperture Use these suggestions as a guide for choosing aperture.
In programmed auto (ISO 100) For subjects backlit by the sun For outdoor subjects on a sunny day For subjects beside a bright window For indoor subject In shutter-priority auto For subjects backlit by the sun f/16 at 1/100 sec. f/8 at 1/100 sec. f/5.6 at 1/100 sec. f/5.6 at 1/30 sec. f/16 f/8 f/5.6 f/5.6
For outdoor subjects on a sunny day For subjects beside a bright window For indoor subjects
Look into camera viewfinder, compose and lightly press the shutter release button. Confirm ready-light has come on and subject is in focus. Confirm ready-light is on in the cameras viewfinder or on the SB-25. Check whether subject is in focus by using the in-focus indicator I in the cameras viewfinder
Fully depress the shutter release button to fire flash. Recheck ready-light to see if it is blinking.
If ready-light blinks for a few seconds after shooting, the flash has fired at its maximum output but the light may have been insufficient. Reconfirm shooting distance and, if necessary, move closer to the subject or select a wider aperture (in aperture-priority auto manual exposure mode) to compensate underexposure.

Page 76

Chapter 3 TTL Auto Flash Mode: For FA, FE2, FG and Nikonos V Users
FA, FE2, FG or Nikonos V users can use the SB-25 Speedlight to perform Standard TTL Flash, for fully automatic though-the-lens (TTL) control of flash exposure. Standard TTL Flash can be performed by setting the SB-25 at. In Standard TTL Flash, the flash output level is controlled by the Speedlight to correctly expose subject.
Set desired shutter speed*.
Set your chosen aperture.

3 ISO speed

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

7 Aperture

of film in use
Set ISO speed of the film in use. Usable film speeds are from ISO 25 to ISO 400 For instruction, see Setting ISO Film Speed (Manual Adjustment), pages 27 to 28. Set position of the built-in zoom head.
Caution Use the SB-25 exclusively for on-land conditions; it cannot be used in underwater conditions. Always keep the unit away from salt water, rain or water splashes.

Page 78

Page 94

Set the same aperture value in the SB-25s LCD Panel that you set on the camera (step 7). For instruction, see Setting Aperture Values (Manual Adjustment), pages 28 to 29. An indicator bar appears to show appropriate shooting distance for the selected aperture.
Automatic aperture adjustment: F90-Series/ N90, F4-Series, F-801/N8008, or F-801s/ N8008s used with an AF Nikkor lens (including latest D-Type) or Nikkor lens having a built-in CPU The aperture in use and an indicator bar are automatically indicated in the SB-25s LCD panel. With other lenses, you must operate manually following steps 8, 9 and 10. To skip steps 8, 9 and 10, check whether subject stands at the location suggested by the LCDs measurement scale. If not, change the aperture by turning the lens aperture ring to adjust the bar. Finally, perform minus exposure compensation* to prevent overexposure of overlapping imagesuse the aperture ring to choose another aperture one or two stops smaller than indicated above.
* The aperture indicated by the LCD provides a correct exposure with the very first flash, whereas overlapped images are illuminated from the second flash on. It is advisable to take a few additional shots at different apertures (exposure bracketing).
If necessary, press or button to reset the indicator bar so it points at the measurement scale that matches or nearly equals the actual flash-to-subject distance (can be read this from the lens barrel). Manipulating the indication bar causes aperture value in the LCD panel to change. Reset aperture value on the camera.
Look into camera viewfinder, compose and lightly press the shutter release button to confirm that subject is in focus. Check that ready-light is on in the cameras viewfinder or on the SB-25. Fully depress shutter release button to fire flash.
Use an aperture one or two stops smaller than the LCD panel indicates. This will prevent overexposure for overlapping images (minus exposure compensation).*
* Subject will be correctly exposed with the very first flash, but successive overlapping images (form the second flash on) will not be properly exposed, unless you perform minus exposure compensation as indicated in steps 9 and 10. We recommend you take a few additional shots at different apertures (exposure bracketing).
Background brightness and subject overlap Use as dark a background material as possible (e.g., black curtain or cloth). If the overlapping exposed images are too weak or too strong, try repositioning subject at the location suggested by the indicator bar (or adjust indicator bar). Conditions vary for each situation try experimenting.

Check that the SB-25s ready-light has come on. Lightly press the cameras shutter release button to activates the AF illuminator LED. Do not use autofocus lock function. 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 Nikonos V F-301/N2000 F3-Series F-401/N4004 F2-Series F-401s/N4004s FM2 FA FG-20 FE2 FG
Confirm whether in-focus indicator LED I in the cameras viewfinder appears. If the in-focus indication does not appear inside the viewfinder, the subject is beyond the autofocus distance range (see at right Notes of AF assist LED); focus manually on the clear matte field.

Page 116

Power Switch Standby (STBY) Position To Conserve Energy and
Setting the power switch to STBY position turns on the SB-25, but the SB-25 will also automatically shut off to conserve flash battery energy. When you will not use the SB-25 for a long time, however, it is recommended to set the power switch to OFF. Hints and Notes

Shorten Recycling Time

When using a remote cord with the FA or FE2 connected to Nikon Motor Drive MD-12, camera remains on as long as the MD-12s power switch is on. In this case, the SB-25 will not turn off in STBY position. Use OFF position to turn it off manually. You cannot use the STBY position to turn on the SB-25 when using it with an FA, FE2 or FG set on a mechanical shutter setting (M250 or B setting with the FA or FE2, M90 or B setting with FG or Nikonos V). Use ON position to turn it on manually.
With the SB-25s power switch on standby (STBY) position, the unit turns off to conserve energy approx. 80 sec. after the cameras meter has turned off. To turn the SB-25 on again, lightly press the shutter release button to turn the cameras meter on, or push the SB-25s open-flash button. APPLICABLE NIKON SLR MODELS F90-Series/N90 F4-Series F-801/N8008 F-801s/N8008s F-601/N6006 F-601M/N6000 F-401x/N5005

Page 118

Guide Number To Calculate a Proper Aperture
The guide number helps you determine a correct aperture or f/stop value for using the SB-25s Manual Flash and Repeating-Flash mode. (See Guide number chart, page 139.) Use the following equation for your calculations, and check the following chart for guide numbers at various film speeds. [guide number] [f/stop] = [flash-to-subject distance] For example, when shooting a subject located 9 m (approx. 30 ft.) away at 1/1 (full) light output in (Manual Flash) mode, with a zoom-head position of 35mm and a film speed of ISO 100, you will obtain a guide number of 36 (or 118) from the same chart on page 139. If measuring in meters; 36 [f/stop] = 9 = 4 Or, if measuring in feet; 118 [f/stop] = 30 = 3.You should then choose f/4 as the proper aperture. For films other than ISO 100, multiply the above figures by the factors shown in the following chart:

Precaution for Rear-Curtain Sync Flash Rear-Curtain Sync Flash can be performed in multiple flash photography only with the F-601/N6006 and F-601M/N6000 cameras. Rear-Curtain Sync Flash cannot be performed in multiple flash shooting with F90-Series/N90, F4Series, F-801/N8008 and F-801s/N8008s cameras.
Caution To avoid damage to flash units or incorrect operation, never mix Nikon Speedlights with flash units of other manufacturers.

Page 128

Chapter 4 Multiple Flash Photography
TTL Multiple Flash Photography
type) or AI-P lenses to perform Center-Weighted or Spot Fill-Flash, or (3) performing Standard TTL Flash.
* Because 3D Multi-Sensor and Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash take advantage of the SB-25s Monitor Preflash and the cameras TTL Multi-Sensor, it is difficult to manage such fill-flash operations for TTL Multiple Flash Photography, especially when using the SB-25 as a master flash unit with other slave flash unit(s). The Sensor system is designed to analyze Monitor Preflash reflection from a single SB-25 (ideally, mounted on the camera) and to control light output from that particular unit, but not from the other slave(s).
Manual Multiple Flash Photography
Use the ON position to activate a slave flash unit; the STBY does not function (SB-25, SB-24, SB-22 and SB-20). The SB-23 offers only OFF and TTL/STBY positions for power switching. This means it cannot be used as a slave.
Use optional Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18 (1.5m) and/or SC-19 (3m) to connect flash units via the SB-25s TTL multiple flash terminal. Remove the rubber cover to use. Use the TTL multiple flash terminal for connecting other Speedlights via optional sync cords. You can use one Speedlight for the master flash unit and up to four other units for slaves. See the following chart to confirm available Speedlights for master and slave use. Note the following when using an F90-Series/N90 camera for TTL Auto Flash operation with multiple Speedlights: a. Use the SB-25 as a slave flash unit whenever possible, or b. When using the SB-25 as master, avoid Monitor Preflashes* by (1) upward tilting or rotating the flash head (the distance indicator bars disappear), (2) using a lens other than AF Nikkor (including D128

Use optional TTL Remote Cord SC-17 or SC-24* for use with the SB-23, SB-22, SB-21B, SB-20, SB-18 and/or SB-15 as a master flash unit.
Use optional TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 for use with the SB-22, SB-21, SB-20, SB-18 and or SB-15 as a slave flash unit. Use optional TTL Remote Cord SC-23 for use with the SB-140, SB-14 and/or SB-11. The SB-11/14/140 (even with SC-23) or SB-21 cannot be used for TTL multiple flash photography with the F-401/ N4004 and F-401s/N4004s.
When a second shot cannot be taken (F90Series/N90, F4-Series, F-801/N8008, F-801s/ N8008s, F-601/N6006, F-601M/N6000, F-401x/ N5005, and F-501/N2020) For multiple flash photography, if the electronic current in the synchro circuit exceeds a certain level, you may not be able to take a second shot after taking the first shot. Take care that the combined total of the coefficients (numbers shown in parentheses below) for all Speedlights used at any one time does not exceed 20 at 20C (68F), or 13 at 40C (104F). If you are unable to take a second shot, disconnect the master Speedlight from the camera, or turn each of the Speedlights off once. This resets the circuits so you can resume shooting.
Speedlight coefficients SB-25 (1) SB-24 (1) SB-23 (4) SB-22 (6) SB-20 (9) SB-19 (2) SB-18 (16) SB-17 (4) SB-15 (4) SB-14 (1) SB-12 (1) SB-11 (1) SB-21 (4) SB-16 (4)
Use the sync/multiple flash terminal for connection with other Speedlights via optional sync cords. Use optional Sync Cord SC-11 or SC-15. Set and use Manual for correct exposure. Flash mode on each Speedlight
Speedlights for TTL multiple flash photography Master Slave SB-25, SB-24, SB-23, SB-22, SB-21B, SB-20, SB-18, SB-16B or SB-15 SB-25, SB-24, SB-22, SB-21B, SB-20, SB-18, SB-17, SB-16A, SB-16B and/or SB-15 129

Page 130

System Chart for TTL Multiple Flash
Note: The SB-11, SB-14, SB-140 cannot be used with the F-401/N4004 or F-401s/ N4004s either as a master or slave unit.

SC-14 SB-21A

Slave flash unit

SC-23 SB-21B

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

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.

Page 138

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.
138 Maximum consecutive firing SB-25 Flash mode TTL Auto Flash Non-TTL Auto Flash Manual Flash 15 (at full or 1/2 power) 40 (at 1/4 power or less) 15 Maximum number of flash SD-8 SD-(at full or 1/2 power) 40 (at 1/4 power or less) 15

Specifications

DC Units SD-8/SD-7 Nikon DC Unit SD-8 or SD-7 can be used as an optional external power source to enhance flash capacity and provide faster recycling time. To use the DC Unit, connect its power cord SC-16 to the SB-25s external power terminal. Even when powered with the DC Unit, the SB-25 still requires batteries inside the flash unit. Do not remove the batteries. In continuous shooting with the DC Unit, to prevent flash head deterioration caused by heat, do not exceed the maximum number of flash listed below. It is recommended to rest for more than 10 minutes after firing near the maximum numbers. All performance data are for normal-temperature operation (20 C/68 F). Electronic construction: Automatic Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) and series circuitry. Guide number (at ISO 100: for m/ft.):

5 Speedlight mounting shoe Blitzschuh Glissire de montage de flash 6 Coupling confirmation window Kupplungs-Besttigungsfenster Fentre de confirmation du couplage 7 Positioning hole Positionierungsffnung Trou de positionnement 8 Coupling hole Kupplungsbohrung Trou de couplage 9 Connecting cord terminal Kabelanschlu Borne du cble de raccordement !p Grip lock release button Griff-Entriegelungstaste Bouton de libration du verrou de poigne !q Battery chamber cover Batteriefachdeckel Cache du logement piles !w Battery chamber cover lock release button BatteriefachdeckelEntriegelungstaste Bouton de libration du verrou du cache du logement piles !e Cord guides Kabelfhrungen Guides pour cble Never attempt to touch the external power plug with a metallic pin or similar material. The highvoltage circuitry inside may cause electrical shock.
Minimum Recycling time approx. 4.0 sec. approx. 4.5 sec. approx. 2.5 sec. approx. 3.0 sec.
Total number of flashes approx. 250 times approx. 300 times approx. 100 times approx. 140 times
Blitzfolgezeit ca. 4,0 s ca. 4,5 s ca. 2,5 s ca. 3,0 s
Maximale Blitzzahl ca. 250 ca. 300 ca. 100 ca. 140
Temps de recyclage minimum approx. 4,0 sec. approx. 4,5 sec. approx. 2,5 sec. approx. 3,0 sec.
Nombre total dclairs approx. 250 clairs approx. 300 clairs approx. 100 clairs approx. 140 clairs
Minimum Recycling time approx. 3.5 sec. approx. 3.5 sec. approx. 2.5 sec. approx. 3.0 sec.
Total number of flashes approx. 200 times approx. 300 times approx. 80 times approx. 150 times
Blitzfolgezeit ca. 3,5 s ca. 3,5 s ca. 2,5 s ca. 3,0 s
Maximale Blitzzahl ca. 200 ca. 300 ca. 80 ca. 150
Temps de recyclage minimum approx. 3,5 sec. approx. 3,5 sec. approx. 2,5 sec. approx. 3,0 sec.
Nombre total dclairs approx. 200 clairs approx. 300 clairs approx. 80 clairs approx. 150 clairs
*DANGER!/*ACHTUNG!/*DANGER!
With SB-22: Power source Alkaline-manganese NiCd Ni-MH
Minimum Recycling time approx. 2.0 sec. approx. 1.5 sec. approx. 1.5 sec.