Nikon SB400
Oct 23, 2018 14:21:33 #
Approximately one year ago I initiated a discussion on the merits of the Nikon SB300 v. SB400 flash units. At that time I chose to follow Ken Rockwell's reviews, going with the SB400. https://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-493210-1.html
My need for a small compact unit was demonstrated to me while taking photos of my grandsons at the NC State Fair, the need for fill light was very obvious in my results that year (I was able to do significant correction in Elements). With the additional need for the flash to be very compact and rugged due to being carried in an exceedingly crowded situation (frequently jostling with other people).
We recently attended the 2018 State Fair and I am very pleased to report that the SB400 fulfilled all of my needs and expectations. In fact it was a very cloudy, drizzly day so the fill lighting was even more necessary than the previous year. During the past year I have found several occasions to use the SB400 and in every instance I have found it to be an excellent choice. I did have greater latitude in post processing this year as I now shoot most of my photos in RAW.
Before someone suggests larger more powerful flashes, be assured that I have several Nissin flashes that are both larger and far more powerful; they are also ideal for certain situations and are much used (by the way, I recommend the Nissin flashes and transmitter highly). I even have a couple of old 283's that can be set up as optical slaves. So powerful large flashes are not in short supply; but, the SB400 is an exceedingly good compact rugged flash for certain applications. In short I do not intend to ever be without a SB400 in the future.
My need for a small compact unit was demonstrated to me while taking photos of my grandsons at the NC State Fair, the need for fill light was very obvious in my results that year (I was able to do significant correction in Elements). With the additional need for the flash to be very compact and rugged due to being carried in an exceedingly crowded situation (frequently jostling with other people).
We recently attended the 2018 State Fair and I am very pleased to report that the SB400 fulfilled all of my needs and expectations. In fact it was a very cloudy, drizzly day so the fill lighting was even more necessary than the previous year. During the past year I have found several occasions to use the SB400 and in every instance I have found it to be an excellent choice. I did have greater latitude in post processing this year as I now shoot most of my photos in RAW.
Before someone suggests larger more powerful flashes, be assured that I have several Nissin flashes that are both larger and far more powerful; they are also ideal for certain situations and are much used (by the way, I recommend the Nissin flashes and transmitter highly). I even have a couple of old 283's that can be set up as optical slaves. So powerful large flashes are not in short supply; but, the SB400 is an exceedingly good compact rugged flash for certain applications. In short I do not intend to ever be without a SB400 in the future.
Oct 23, 2018 14:40:45 #
Oct 23, 2018 14:45:16 #
BebuLamar wrote:
I don't think anybody should suggest anything as you don't ask for suggestion.
I agree that they shouldn't; however, if you look at my post from last year and many other questions/observations here on UHH you will find suggestions that frequently have nothing to add and are completely at odds with the subject and parameters established.
Oct 23, 2018 14:52:44 #
You are so right. I bought a used SB400 for $40.00 for my D500 since it doesn't come with a built in flash. I love it because my old D200 had a built in flash. I have bought a Nikon flash cable (iTTL) so I can use it off camera. You can attach it to a mono pod and help you aim the flash off from the side. The SB400 only works as an on camera flash only or with a flash cable and has a maximum speed light of 1/250 sec. I use it to trigger slave flashes also. You can set it to manual at the lowest power to not interfere with you composition. I also bought this on the recommendation from the Rockwall review.
Oct 24, 2018 05:58:25 #
Thumbs up for the SB400. Adds very little size/weight to your camera and does a great job. Since I use a camera that does not have a pop-up flash (Nikon Df), my SB400 is a perfect accessory.
Oct 24, 2018 06:01:40 #
I have an SB-400 that I purchased 7 years ago. It's a jewel of a flash. It has a surprising amount of power for its diminutive size. I purchased an SB-700 after that for the extra features and for the head can swivel in both directions. I'll keep the SB-400 since it's more compact.
Oct 24, 2018 06:33:42 #
Oct 24, 2018 08:44:06 #
BebuLamar wrote:
I don't think anybody should suggest anything as you don't ask for suggestion.
In an ideal world...
Oct 24, 2018 08:54:56 #
I agree... the SB-400 is a great little flash... I bought mine in response to long ago losing a flash- I believe it was called a "wink" light - just two watt-seconds- that added a highlight in an outdoor portrait's eye without changing the base exposure. The SB-400 will do the same... not quite so cavalier, but, close enough... And, you can bounce the thing!
Oct 24, 2018 09:12:47 #
jerryc41 wrote:
In an ideal world...
I said "Should" but I know people would still love to recommend what's good for themselves. It's normal for people to do what they shouldn't.
Oct 24, 2018 09:19:08 #
BebuLamar wrote:
I said "Should" but I know people would still love to recommend what's good for themselves. It's normal for people to do what they shouldn't.
That's why I put in all the caveats and explanations. People do have a habit of jumping in with extraneous information and suggestions.
By the way Jerry, I have followed your suggestions and observations over the years; have always found them excellent and on the point. You're right up there with Linda from Maine in my estimation.
Oct 24, 2018 12:25:51 #
Oct 25, 2018 11:46:18 #
Tommy II wrote:
👍. I love my SB400. A great addition to my D500.
Ever notice the label on the SB 400’s case?
Oct 26, 2018 00:55:51 #
Sinewsworn wrote:
Ever notice the label on the SB 400’s case?
You made me look and you’re right!! After all these years I had forgotten about what looks like a typo. Anyhow I love my SB400. So glad I got one years ago.
Oct 26, 2018 12:12:21 #
ronpier wrote:
You made me look and you’re right!! After all these years I had forgotten about what looks like a typo. Anyhow I love my SB400. So glad I got one years ago.
Yes I luv mine, too. Use it to trigger other flashes or as a fill flash. Bounce makes this flash work when on-camera flashes do not.
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