Nikon autofocus speedlight SB-900 User manual

© 2008 Nikon Corporation
SB-900
En
User’s Manual
En
Autofocus Speedlight
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.
Printed in Japan
TT1F08 (11)
8MSA3111-08

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About this user’s manual
How to find what you are looking for
You can search for relevant page references using the following methods.
k
Table of contents ...
(kA-6)
You can search by item, such as operation method, flash mode or function.
k
Simple search by objective
(kA-4)
You can search according to your objective without knowing the specific name or
term of the item you are looking for.
k
Speedlight functions
(kB-4)
You can search for a particular SB-900 function. This is handy when you know the
name of a function and want more information.
k
Index
(kF-22)
You can search using the alphabetical index.
k
Troubleshooting
(kF-2)
You can determine the cause if there is a problem with your Speedlight.

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Terms used in this user’s manual
Default settings: the function and mode settings at the time of purchase are
referred to as the “default settings.”
CLS (Nikon Creative Lighting System): the Nikon Creative Lighting System is
often referred to as “CLS.”
ISO sensitivity: “ISO sensitivity” is a generic term that covers both the imaging
sensitivity of digital SLR cameras and the film sensitivity of 35mm film based
cameras.
Camera and lens combinations
This manual has been compiled with the assumption that the SB-900 will be used in
combination with a camera compatible with CLS (Nikon Creative Lighting System)
and a CPU lens.
tTips on identifying CPU Nikkor lenses
CPU lenses have CPU contacts.
Describes a point to which you should pay particular attention in order
to avoid Speedlight malfunction or mistakes during shooting.
Includes information or tips to make Speedlight use easier.
Marks used in this manual
v
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The SB-900 cannot be used with IX-Nikkor lenses.•
CPU contacts

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You can search for specific explanations according to your objective.
About Speedlight parts and indications
I want to know about Key words page
The name of each part Speedlight parts C-2
The meaning of each icon (displayed) LCD panel C-10
The meaning of the warning symbols Warning indications F-3
About settings and operation
I want to know about Key words page
The functions and usage of control buttons Control buttons C-8
The types of batteries that can be used Suitable batteries C-4
The minimum recycling time and the number of
flashes per recycling time per type of battery
The minimum recycling time
and the number of flashes per
recycling time
F-20
When to replace the batteries Replacing/recharging batteries C-27
How to change settings using “Custom settings” Custom settings C-20
How to perform test firings Test firing D-59
How to tilt or rotate the flash head Adjusting the flash head D-26
How to reset various settings Two-button reset C-9
How to illuminate the LCD panel Using the SB-900 in dim light C-24
How to enhance the readability of the LCD panel
Enhancing the LCD panel’s readability C-25
How to change the standby lead time Standby function C-23
How to monitor the remote flash units by sound Sound monitor C-24
How to lock the control buttons to avoid mistakes Key lock C-9
About flash photography
I want to know about Key words page
About the flash modes Flash modes and functions D-1
How to take pictures in the simplest way Basic operation C-4
How to take portrait photos emphasizing the main subject
Illumination pattern: Center-
weighted D-24
How to take formal group shots Illumination pattern: Even D-24
How to take more natural-looking shots of flowers
and dolls
Wireless multiple flash shooting D-39
How to take pictures with soft shadows cast on a wall Bounce flash operation D-26
How to take pictures of both the subject and
background at night Slow-sync flash D-55
Simple search by objective

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B
C
D
E
F
I want to know about Key words page
How to take pictures using multiple flash units Wireless multiple flash shooting D-39
How to confirm lighting conditions Modeling illumination D-61
How to take brighter (or darker) pictures of both the
subject and background Exposure compensation D-38
How to take brighter (or darker) pictures of the subject Flash output level compensation D-37
How to take pictures without the subject’s eyes
appearing red Red-eye reduction D-56
How to shoot a moving subject with stroboscopic
multiple-exposure effects Repeating flash D-17
How to take pictures under fluorescent light and
incandescent light and balance the lights’ color effects
Flash photography with
color filters D-33
How to take pictures adding specific color to the scene
Flash photography with
color filters D-33
How to perform autofocus flash photography in dim lighting AF-assist Illuminator D-58
How to shoot a fast moving subject using wireless
multiple flash shooting
SU-4 type wireless multiple
flash operation D-50
About accessories
I want to know about Key words page
About cameras compatible with the SB-900 Compatible cameras B-2
How to use the SB-900 with cameras not compatible
with Nikon Creative Lighting System
Using the SB-900 with non-
CLS-compatible SLR cameras E-2
How to use the SB-900 with Nikon COOLPIX cameras
For usage with i-TTL-compatible
COOLPIX cameras
E-3
About optional accessories that are available Optional accessories F-11
Others
I want to know about Key words page
Tips on Speedlight care Tips on Speedlight care F-7
SB-900 specifications Specifications F-14
The latest Nikon product information Life-long learning A-16
How to update the firmware Firmware update F-10

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Contents
Preparation
About this user‘s manual ......................................................................A-2
How to find what you are looking for .................................................. A-2
Simple search by objective ....................................................................A-4
For your safety......................................................................................A-8
Check before Use ...............................................................................A-14
About the SB-900
SB-900 features .................................................................................... B-2
Main functions...................................................................................... B-4
Operation
Speedlight parts....................................................................................C-2
Basic operations....................................................................................C-4
Control buttons ....................................................................................C-8
LCD ....................................................................................................C-10
Custom functions and settings............................................................C-20
Batteries .............................................................................................C-27
Flash modes and functions
i-TTL mode............................................................................................D-2
Auto aperture flash...............................................................................D-5
Non-TTL auto flash................................................................................D-8
Distance-priority manual flash.............................................................D-11
Manual mode .....................................................................................D-14
Repeating flash...................................................................................D-17
Determining the aperture, flash output level and shooting distance
in the Distance priority, Manual and Repeating flash mode..................D-22
Switching illumination pattern ............................................................D-24
Bounce flash operation .......................................................................D-26
Taking close-up photographs with bounce-down flash ........................D-30
Flash photography with color filters ....................................................D-33
Flash output level compensation and exposure compensation .............D-37
Wireless multiple flash shooting..........................................................D-39
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Flash shooting in Advanced Wireless Lighting .............................D-43
SU-4 type wireless multiple flash shooting ..................................D-50
Available functions to be set on the camera ........................................D-55
Auto FP High-Speed Sync mode
Flash Value Lock (FV Lock)
Slow-sync flash
Red-eye reduction/Red-eye reduction with slow-sync flash
Rear-curtain sync
Flash shooting support functions.........................................................D-57
Power zoom function
AF-Assist Illuminator
Setting the ISO sensitivity
Test firing function
Modeling illuminator function
FX-/DX selection
For use with cameras other than CLS compatible
SLR cameras
Using the SB-900 with non-CLS-compatible SLR cameras ...................... E-2
For usage with i-TTL-compatible COOLPIX cameras ............................... E-3
Tips on Speedlight care and reference information
Troubleshooting.................................................................................... F-2
Notes on continuous flash shooting ...................................................... F-5
Thermal Cut-out ................................................................................... F-6
Tips on Speedlight care......................................................................... F-7
Notes on batteries................................................................................. F-8
About the LCD panel ............................................................................ F-9
Updating firmware.............................................................................. F-10
Optional accessories............................................................................ F-11
Specifications...................................................................................... F-14
Index .................................................................................................. F-22
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For your safety
Before using your product, please read the following safety precautions carefully
and thoroughly to ensure correct and safe use and to help prevent damage to your
Nikon product or injury to yourself or others.
For quick reference by those who use the product, please keep these safety
instructions near the product.
In this manual, safety instructions are indicated with these symbols:
WARNING
Disregarding instructions marked with this symbol could result in personal injury, or
death and property damage.
CAUTION
Disregarding instructions marked with this symbol could result in property damage.
WARNINGS for Speedlights
If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and get in your eyes,
immediately wash your eyes with running water and consult with a
doctor. Your eyes could be seriously damaged if they are not treated quickly.
If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and come in contact with
your skin or clothes, wash immediately with running water. Prolonged
contact could injure your skin.
Never attempt to disassemble or repair the flash unit by yourself, as this
could result in you receiving an electric shock and could also cause the unit to
malfunction; such malfunction could lead to personal injury.
If the flash unit is dropped and damaged, do not touch any exposed
interior metal parts. Such parts, especially the Speedlight’s capacitor and
associated parts, could be in a high-charge state and if touched could cause an
electric shock. Disconnect the power or remove the batteries and be sure that
you do not touch any of the product’s electrical components, and then bring
the flash unit to your local Nikon dealer or authorized service center for repair.
If you detect heat, smoke or notice a burning smell, immediately stop
operation and remove the batteries to prevent the unit from catching on
fire or melting. Allow the flash unit to cool down so that you can safely touch
it and remove the batteries. Then bring the unit to your local Nikon dealer or
authorized service center for repair.
The flash unit should never be submerged in liquid or exposed to rain,
saltwater or moisture unless it is properly protected from the liquids
and moisture. Underwater use requires a certified underwater housing.
If water or moisture gets inside the unit, this could cause the unit to catch
on fire or cause an electric shock. In such instances you should immediately
remove the batteries from the Speedlight and then bring the unit to your local
Nikon dealer or authorized service center for repair.
Note: electronic devices that are penetrated by water or moisture are often not
economically repairable.
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Do not use the unit in the presence of flammable or explosive gas.
If the flash unit is operated in areas where there is a flammable gas, including
propane, gasoline and dust, it could cause an explosion or fire.
Do not fire the flash unit directly at the driver of a moving car, as this
could temporarily impair the driver’s vision and cause an accident.
Do not fire the flash unit directly into the eyes of someone that is at
close range, as it could damage the retinas of their eyes. Never fire the flash
unit closer than 1 meter from infants.
Do not fire the unit while the flash head is touching a person or object.
Such use can result in the person being burned, and/or their clothes igniting
from the heat of the flash’s firing.
Keep small accessories out of the reach of children to avoid the possibility
of the accessory being swallowed. If an accessory is accidentally swallowed,
immediately consult with a doctor.
Use only the batteries specified in this user’s manual. Batteries other
than those specified could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire or
otherwise not perform satisfactorily.
Do not mix battery types, brands or old and new batteries, as the
batteries could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire. When using
more than one battery in a product, always use identical batteries that were
purchased at the same time.
Non-rechargeable batteries such as manganese, alkaline-manganese
and lithium batteries should never be charged in a battery charger
because they could leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire.
When using standard size (AA, AAA, C, D) or other common
rechargeable batteries such as NiCd and Ni-MH battery types, or when
recharging them, be sure to use only the battery charger specified
by the battery maker and read the instructions thoroughly. Do not
recharge these batteries with their terminals reversed in the charger
or before the batteries have cooled off sufficiently because they could
leak corrosive liquids, explode or catch on fire. The same caution also applies
to using the rechargeable batteries that may be supplied by the photo
product’s manufacturer.
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For your safety
CAUTIONS for Speedlights
Do not touch the flash unit with wet hands, as this could cause an
electric shock.
Keep the flash unit away from children to prevent them from putting
the unit in or near their mouth, or otherwise touching a dangerous part
of the product; as such contact could cause an electric shock.
Do not apply strong physical shocks to the unit, as this could cause a
malfunction that could cause the unit to explode or catch on fire.
Never use active agents that contain flammable substances such as
paint thinner, benzene or paint remover to clean the unit, and never
store the unit in locations containing chemicals such as camphor and
naphthalene, as this could damage the plastic case, cause a fire or cause an
electric shock.
Remove any batteries from the unit before storing the unit for a long
time to prevent the unit from catching on fire or leaking corrosive liquids.
Do not exceed the maximum number of continuous firings, as this may
cause the flash head to overheat and can result in burns and damage to the
flash panel and body.
WARNINGS for Batteries
Never heat or throw batteries into a fire, as this could cause the batteries
to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
Do not short-circuit or disassemble the batteries because this could cause
the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
Do not mix battery types, brands or old and new batteries, as this could
cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
Do not install batteries in the reverse direction as this could cause
the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode. Even if
only one battery is installed in reverse it will cause the Speedlight
to malfunction.
Be sure to use the battery charger specified by the battery maker to
avoid the possibility of batteries leaking corrosive liquids, generating heat or
exploding.
Do not carry or store batteries along with metallic materials such as
necklaces and hair pins because such materials could cause the batteries to
short-circuit, leading to battery leakage, heat generation or an explosion.
In addition, specially when carrying a quantity of batteries, place them
carefully in a storage case that prevents the battery terminals from
touching another battery’s terminals because if they touch in reverse order
it could also cause the batteries to short-circuit, leading to battery leakage, heat
generation or an explosion.
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If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and get in your eyes,
immediately wash your eyes with running water and consult with a
doctor. Your eyes could be seriously damaged if they are not treated quickly.
If corrosive liquids seep from the batteries and come in contact with
your skin or clothes, wash immediately with running water. Prolonged
contact could injure your skin.
Always follow the warnings and instructions printed on the batteries to
avoid activities that could cause the batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate
heat or catch on fire.
Be sure to use only batteries specified in this user’s manual, to avoid the
possibility of batteries leaking corrosive liquids, generating heat or exploding.
Never open the casing surrounding batteries or use batteries whose
casing has been breached as such batteries could leak corrosive liquids,
generate heat or explode.
Keep batteries out of the reach of children to help avoid the possibility
of them being swallowed. If a battery is accidentally swallowed, immediately
consult with a doctor.
Batteries should not be submerged in water, exposed to rain,
moisture or saltwater unless they are properly protected from the wet
environment. If water or moisture gets inside the batteries, this could cause
them to leak corrosive liquids or generate heat.
Do not use any battery that appears abnormal in any way, including
a change in color or shape. Such batteries could leak corrosive liquids or
generate heat.
Stop recharging rechargeable batteries if you notice that recharging is
not completed within the specified time to help prevent the possibility of
the battery leaking corrosive liquids or generating heat.
When recycling or disposing of batteries, be sure to insulate their
terminals with tape. If the battery’s positive and negative terminals
shortcircuit after coming into contact with metallic objects, it could cause fire,
heat generation or an explosion. Dispose of used batteries in accordance with
local government regulations
Non-rechargeable batteries should never be charged in a battery
charger because they could leak corrosive liquids or generate heat.
Remove dead batteries from your equipment immediately, as they could
leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
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For your safety
CAUTIONS for Batteries
Do not throw or apply strong physical shocks to the batteries as this
could cause batteries to leak corrosive liquids, generate heat or explode.
Be careful when replacing batteries after continuous flash use, because
batteries may generate heat during continuous flash photography.
Symbol for separate collection applicable in European countries
This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately.
The following apply only to users in European countries.
This product is designated for separate collection at an
appropriate collection point. Do not dispose of as household
waste
For more information, contact the retailer or the local authorities
in charge of waste management.
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Check before Use
Foreword
Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Speedlight SB-900. To get the most out of your
Speedlight, please read this user’s manual and the separate booklet “A collection of
example photos” thoroughly before use.
This user’s manual explains SB-900 functions, operation methods, specifications,
etc., and the separate “A collection of example photos” provides an overview of
the SB-900’s flash-shooting capabilities with example photos.
In addition, keep your camera user’s manual handy for quick reference.
Included items
Check that all items listed below are included with the SB-900. If any items are
missing, inform the store where the SB-900 was purchased or the seller immediately.
❑Speedlight Stand AS-21
❑Nikon Diffusion Dome SW-13H
❑Color Filter Set SJ-900
❑Color Filter Holder SZ-2
❑Soft Case SS-900
❑User’s manual (this manual)
❑A collection of example photos
❑Warranty card
SB-900
Color Filter Holder
SZ-2
Nikon Diffusion Dome
SW-13H
Soft Case
SS-900
Speedlight Stand
AS-21
Color Filter Set
SJ-900

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Tips on using the Speedlight
Take trial shots
Make trial shots before photographing important occasions like weddings
or graduations.
Have Nikon spot-check your Speedlight regularly
Nikon recommends that you have your Speedlight serviced by an authorized dealer
or service center at least once every two years.
Use your Speedlight with Nikon equipment
The Nikon Speedlight SB-900’s performance has been optimized for use with Nikon
brand cameras/accessories including lenses.
Camera/accessories made by other manufacturers may not meet Nikon’s criteria for
specifications, and nonconforming cameras/accessories could damage the SB-900’s
components. Nikon cannot guarantee the SB-900’s performance when used with
non-Nikon products.

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Check before Use
Life-long learning
As part of Nikon’s “Life-long learning” commitment to ongoing product support and
education, continually-updated information is available on-line at the following sites:
For users in the U.S.A.:
http://www.nikonusa.com/
For users in Europe:
http://www.europe-nikon.com/support
For users in Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa:
http://www.nikon-asia.com/
Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information, tips,
answers to frequently-asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital
imaging and photography. Additional information may be available from the Nikon
representative in your area. See the URL below for contact information:
http://nikonimaging.com/
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About the SB-900
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This section explains the features and key functions of
the SB-900.
About the SB-900
SB-900 features......................................................B-2
Main functions ......................................................B-4
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About the SB-900
SB-900 features
Features of the SB-900
The SB-900 is a high-performance CLS-compatible Speedlight with a large guide
number of 34/48 (ISO 100/200, m) (111.5/157.5, ft.) (at the 35 mm zoom position
in Nikon FX format with standard illumination pattern, 20°C/68°F.)
Combined with a CLS-compatible camera, the SB-900 can easily perform various
types of flash operations, such as i-TTL auto flash and wireless multiple flash
(kD-39).
Three types of illumination patterns (standard, center-weighted and even) are
available to match different shooting preferences.
FX/DX selection enables the setting of the light distribution angle in accordance
with the camera’s image area between FX- and DX-formats, and provides
effective and high-quality lighting.
Power zoom function automatically adjusts the zoom position to match the lens
focal length from 17 mm to 200 mm (in FX format)/12 mm to 200 mm (in DX
format). When the built-in wide-flash adapter is used or the Nikon Diffusion
Dome is attached, the zoom position is automatically set to match a wideangle
lens with much shorter focal length.
Bounce flash (kD-26) or close-up flash photography can be easily performed
(kD-30).
Custom functions are provided to allow for various settings (kC-20).
Compatible cameras
The SB-900 has been optimized for use with CLS-compatible SLR cameras.
For usage with non-CLS-compatible SLR cameras and with i-TTL-compatible
COOLPIX cameras, see “Using the SB-900 with non-CLS-compatible SLR
cameras.” (kE-1)
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D3 Series, D700, D2 Series, D300 Series, D200, D90, D80, D70 Series,
D7000, D5100, D5000, D3100, D3000, D60, D50, D40 Series, F6, etc.
CLS-compatible SLR cameras
COOLPIX 8800, COOLPIX 8400, COOLPIX P7000, COOLPIX P6000,
COOLPIX P5100, COOLPIX P5000, etc.
i-TTL-compatible COOLPIX cameras

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About the SB-900
What is the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)?
The SB-900 features the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS). This system offers
additional flash shooting possibilities with digital cameras by taking advantage of
your camera’s digital communication capabilities. CLS is available when the SB-900
is used with compatible Nikon cameras.
The SB-900 offers these major features:
i-TTL mode
This is a Nikon Creative Lighting System TTL auto flash mode. Monitor pre-flashes
are fired at all times. The subject is correctly exposed by the light from the flash
lighting and the exposure is less affected by ambient light (kD-2).
Advanced Wireless Lighting
With Advanced Wireless Lighting, wireless multiple flash operation in the TTL (i-TTL)
mode can be accomplished with CLS-compatible digital SLRs. In this mode, you
can divide the remote flash units into three groups and control the flash output
independently for each group, expanding your range of creative multiple-flash
shooting techniques (kD-43).
FV Lock (Flash Value Lock)
Flash Value, or “FV,” is the amount of flash exposure for the subject. Using FV Lock
with compatible cameras, you can lock in the appropriate flash exposure for the
main subject. This flash exposure is locked in, even if you change the aperture or
composition, or zoom the lens in and out. (kD-55).
Flash Color Information Communication
When the SB-900 is used with compatible digital SLRs, color temperature
information is automatically transmitted to the camera. In this way, the camera’s
white balance is automatically adjusted to give you the correct color temperature
when taking photographs with the SB-900.
Auto FP High-Speed Sync
High-Speed flash synchronization at a compatible camera’s highest shutter speed is
possible. This is useful when you want to use a wider aperture to achieve shallow
depth of field to blur the background (kD-55).
AF-Assist illuminator
In autofocus operation, the SB-900 emits AF-Assist illumination, which matches the
wider AF area of CLS-compatible cameras. With cameras supporting this function,
autofocus photography in dim lighting is possible even when the camera’s focus
point (focus area) is changed (kD-58).
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About the SB-900
Main functions
Flash modes and functions on the SB-900
i-TTL mode (kD-2)
The camera controls the SB-900’s flash output level by measuring the light reflected
from the subject when the SB-900 fires a series of monitor pre-flashes.
Auto-Aperture flash mode (kD-5)
The SB-900 controls the flash output level by measuring the flash illumination reflected
back from the subject using the sensor for Non-TTL auto flash and combining this with
information from the camera, such as the ISO sensitivity and the aperture setting.
Non-TTL Auto flash mode (kD-8)
The SB-900 controls the flash output level by measuring the flash illumination
reflected back from the subject using the sensor for Non-TTL auto flash.
Distance Priority manual flash mode (kD-11)
If you preset the aperture and the distance to the subject, the SB-900 will
automatically take control of correct light output.
Manual flash mode (kD-14)
By setting the aperture and the flash output level, you can manually set the
exposure and the distance to the subject.
Repeating flash mode (kD-17)
The SB-900 fires repeatedly to create stroboscopic multiple-exposure effects. This
operation is useful when shooting fast-moving subjects.
Switching illumination pattern (kD-24)
You can select one of three types of illumination pattern (standard, center-weighted
and even) in accordance with your objective.
Bounce flash (kD-26)
By tilting or rotating the flash head, you can bounce the light off a ceiling or wall to
make use of reflected light.
Close-up flash photography (kD-30)
Close up flash photography can be achieved with use of the built-in wide-flash
adapter and the flash head tilted down.
Using color filters (kD-33)
You can compensate for the color of a light source or create interesting effects by
changing the light from the filters to a different color.
Flash output level compensation/Exposure compensation
(kD-37)
Flash output level compensation is performed by modifying the flash output level for
the flash illuminated subject only. Exposure compensation is performed by intentionally
modifying the correct exposure to modify both the subject and background exposure.