Nikon

Nikon ['SB-400'] Speedlight Flash Digital SLR

4.5 (1005 reviews)

Compact and Powerful Flash for Enhanced PhotographyThe Nikon SB-400 Speedlight is a compact and lightweight flash unit designed to provide i-TTL flash operation for Nikon digital SLR cameras. With its versatile bounce capabilities and easy-to-use interface, the SB-400 is perfect for photographers...

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Overview

Compact and Powerful Flash for Enhanced Photography

The Nikon SB-400 Speedlight is a compact and lightweight flash unit designed to provide i-TTL flash operation for Nikon digital SLR cameras. With its versatile bounce capabilities and easy-to-use interface, the SB-400 is perfect for photographers looking to improve their flash photography skills.

Specifications:
  • Brand: Nikon
  • Model: SB-400
  • Compatibility: Nikon Digital SLR Cameras
  • Guide Number: 98.4 feet at ISO 200 (at 18mm zoom head setting)
  • Coverage Angle: 18mm (Nikon DX format)
  • Bounce: 4 Steps up to 90 degrees
  • Flash Shooting Distance: 2 feet to 66 feet
  • Power Source: 2 x AA Batteries

Key Features

Compact, lightweight Speedlight unit

18mm angle of coverage with Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras

Bounce capabilities in 4 steps up to 90 degrees; flash shooting distance range from 2 and up to 66 feet

Approximate guide number of 98.4 feet at ISO 200 (at 18mm zoom head setting)

Operates on two AA-size (1.5V) batteries; fast 2.5 second recycling time

Specifications

Angle of Coverage
18mm (with Nikon DX format DSLRs)
Bounce Capability
4 steps up to 90 degrees
Flash Shooting Distance Range
2 to 66 feet
Guide Number (ISO 200, 18mm)
98.4 feet
Power Source
2 AA-size (1.5V) batteries
Recycling Time
2.5 seconds
Camera Compatibility
Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and handle, ideal for photographers on the go.
  • Provides an 18mm angle of coverage, suitable for use with Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras for appropriate light spread.
  • Offers bounce capabilities in four steps up to 90 degrees, allowing for flexible lighting angles to reduce harsh shadows.
  • Achieves a flash shooting distance range from 2 feet up to 66 feet, providing good coverage for various shooting scenarios.
  • Features a fast 2.5 second recycling time, ensuring quick consecutive shots without significant delays.

👎 Cons

  • The 18mm angle of coverage is specific to Nikon DX format, which may not be ideal or as wide for full-frame (FX) camera users.
  • Operates on two AA-size batteries, requiring users to carry spares or rechargeable options, rather than integrating with camera battery power.
  • The maximum bounce angle is 90 degrees, which might limit creative lighting options compared to flashes with full swivel capabilities.
  • A guide number of 98.4 feet at ISO 200 (at 18mm zoom head setting) might be less powerful than larger, more advanced speedlights.
  • Lacks more advanced features often found in professional speedlights, such as high-speed sync or wireless master/slave functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Nikon SB-400 Speedlight is designed for use with Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras, offering an 18mm angle of coverage.
Yes, it features bounce capabilities that can be adjusted in four steps up to 90 degrees, allowing you to soften shadows and achieve more natural lighting.
The flash offers a shooting distance range from 2 feet and up to 66 feet, making it suitable for various indoor and outdoor conditions.
The Nikon SB-400 Speedlight has a fast recycling time of approximately 2.5 seconds, allowing for quick consecutive shots.
It operates on two AA-size (1.5V) batteries, providing convenient power for on-the-go photography.