The Nikon SB-700 Speedlight is a versatile mid-range flash unit designed for professionals and enthusiasts. It offers ease of use and advanced features for creative lighting.
1.1 Overview of the Nikon SB-700 Flash Unit
The Nikon SB-700 Speedlight is a mid-range external flash unit designed for DSLR cameras. It offers a balance of power, portability, and advanced features, making it suitable for both professionals and enthusiasts. Compatible with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS), it supports wireless flash control and i-TTL metering for precise exposures. The unit features a user-friendly interface, customizable settings, and versatile flash modes, making it an ideal choice for various photography applications, from portraits to event coverage.
1.2 History and Development of the SB-700
The Nikon SB-700 Speedlight was introduced in 2010 as a successor to the SB-600, offering improved features and performance. Developed to meet the needs of both professionals and enthusiasts, it incorporated advancements in flash technology, including wireless communication and enhanced i-TTL metering. Designed as part of Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS), the SB-700 aimed to provide versatile and reliable lighting solutions, bridging the gap between entry-level and high-end flash units.
1.3 Key Features and Benefits of the SB-700
The SB-700 offers a guide number of 38m/125ft at ISO 100, providing substantial light output. It features wireless flash control, master and slave modes, and a rear LCD panel for intuitive settings. With i-TTL, manual, and distance-priority modes, it offers flexibility. Its quick recycle time and battery efficiency enhance performance. The unit is compatible with Nikon’s CLS, enabling advanced lighting setups. These features make it a reliable choice for photographers seeking versatility and professional-grade results in various shooting conditions.
Technical Specifications of the SB-700
The SB-700 features a guide number of 38m/125ft at ISO 100, with flash coverage up to 24mm. It supports i-TTL, manual, and distance-priority modes, ensuring versatility.
2.1 Guide Number and Flash Coverage
The SB-700’s guide number is 38 meters (125 feet) at ISO 100, offering powerful illumination. Its flash coverage spans 24mm to 120mm, with an extendable 14mm diffuser for wider angles. This ensures even light distribution across various lens focal lengths, making it ideal for both wide-angle and telephoto photography. The consistent coverage enhances image quality, providing photographers with reliable lighting performance in diverse shooting scenarios.
2.2 Flash Modes: i-TTL, Manual, and Distance-Priority Manual
The SB-700 offers three primary flash modes: i-TTL, Manual, and Distance-Priority Manual. The i-TTL mode provides automatic flash exposure, adapting to scene conditions for precise results. Manual mode allows users to set flash power manually from 1/1 to 1/128. Distance-Priority Manual calculates flash power based on aperture and subject distance, ensuring accurate illumination. These modes cater to both automatic and manual shooting preferences, offering flexibility for photographers in various lighting scenarios.
2.3 Recycling Time and Battery Life
The SB-700 features a recycling time of approximately 2.5 to 3.5 seconds with four AA alkaline batteries. Battery life varies based on usage, with up to 150 flashes at full power. The unit supports external power sources for extended shooting sessions. Using fresh batteries ensures optimal performance, while Ni-MH batteries may slightly increase recycling times. Proper power management enhances reliability during photo shoots.
2.4 Compatible Cameras and Lenses
The Nikon SB-700 is compatible with Nikon cameras supporting the Creative Lighting System (CLS), including DSLRs like the D7000 series, D500, and Z series mirrorless cameras via the FTZ adapter. It works seamlessly with CPU lenses, ensuring accurate flash metering and control. Compatibility extends to non-CPU lenses in manual modes, though advanced features may be limited. This versatility makes the SB-700 a reliable choice for a wide range of Nikon systems and shooting scenarios.
Setting Up and Using the SB-700
Setting up the SB-700 involves unboxing, attaching to your camera, and navigating its intuitive controls. Basic operation includes powering on, selecting modes, and adjusting settings for first-time use.
3.1 Unboxing and Initial Setup
Unboxing the SB-700 reveals the flash unit, protective pouch, stand, and user manual. Initial setup involves reading the manual, assembling the stand, and understanding basic controls. Ensure the flash is compatible with your camera and lenses. Familiarize yourself with the LCD screen and mode selector. Charge batteries if necessary and test the flash to confirm proper operation before first use. Proper setup ensures optimal performance and ease of use for capturing stunning images.
3.2 Attaching the SB-700 to Your Camera
Attach the SB-700 by aligning its hot shoe with the camera’s hot shoe mount. Gently slide it in until it clicks securely. Ensure the flash is firmly locked to avoid misalignment. After attaching, turn on the camera and flash. Enable TTL mode for automatic flash exposure. Refer to the manual for compatibility with your camera model. Proper attachment ensures reliable communication and optimal flash performance during photography sessions. Always double-check the connection before use to prevent any issues. This step is crucial for achieving consistent results with the SB-700.
3.3 Basic Operation and First-Time Use
Power on the SB-700 using the power button located on the back. The LCD screen will illuminate, displaying current settings. Set the flash mode to i-TTL for automatic exposure. Adjust flash power and sync modes as needed. Refer to the manual for guidance on optimizing settings. For first-time use, ensure batteries are fully charged. Test the flash with a simple shot to verify functionality. Review and adjust settings to achieve desired results. Familiarize yourself with the controls for seamless operation.
3.4 Navigating the LCD Screen and Controls
The Nikon SB-700 features an intuitive LCD screen and user-friendly controls. The LCD provides clear displays of current settings and menu options. Use the selector dial to navigate through menus and adjust settings. The ‘SEL’ button allows you to confirm selections. Additional buttons provide quick access to frequently used functions. The LCD’s improved interface ensures easy operation, making it simple to customize settings and optimize flash performance according to your needs.
Advanced Features of the SB-700
The Nikon SB-700 offers advanced wireless flash capabilities, master/slave modes, and customization options like SU-4 mode, providing precise lighting control and enhancing creativity when integrated with other units.
4.1 Wireless Flash Mode and Remote Control
The SB-700 supports wireless flash mode, enabling off-camera triggering for enhanced lighting setups. As a slave unit, it can be controlled by a master Speedlight or Nikon CLS-compatible cameras. This feature allows photographers to create complex lighting configurations without physical connections. Wireless control simplifies multi-flash setups, offering greater flexibility and convenience during shoots. The SB-700’s compatibility with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System ensures seamless integration and reliable performance in various environments.
4.2 Master and Slave Modes Explained
The SB-700 offers Master and Slave modes for wireless flash control. In Master mode, it commands other Speedlights, enabling complex lighting setups. In Slave mode, it’s controlled by a master unit or camera, allowing for synchronized multi-flash configurations. These modes enhance creativity and efficiency in various photography environments, ensuring precise lighting control and versatility for photographers seeking advanced illumination techniques.
4.3 Custom Settings and Personalization
The SB-700 allows users to tailor its performance through custom settings, enabling personalized control over flash behavior. Adjustments include modifying flash power, customizing sync modes, and fine-tuning brightness. Firmware updates expand functionality, ensuring compatibility and enhanced performance. Personalization options empower photographers to adapt the Speedlight to their unique workflows, making it versatile for diverse shooting scenarios and creative visions.
4.4 Using the SU-4 Mode for Wireless Communication
The SU-4 mode enables the SB-700 to function as a slave unit in wireless flash setups. When activated, it allows the flash to be triggered remotely by a master unit, such as the SB-910 or SB-900. This mode is ideal for multi-flash configurations, offering seamless communication and control. It enhances flexibility in lighting setups, ensuring precise synchronization and consistent results. Photographers can achieve advanced lighting effects without the need for additional wireless transceivers, making it a convenient option for creative control.
Customizing Your SB-700 Experience
The SB-700 offers extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor flash settings, synchronization modes, and personal preferences for enhanced performance and individualized control.
5.1 Adjusting Flash Power and Sync Modes
Adjusting the flash power and sync modes on the SB-700 is straightforward, allowing precise control over lighting. Use the LCD screen to modify flash output in 1/3 EV increments. Sync modes include front-curtain, rear-curtain, and slow sync, each suited for different effects. For wireless setups, the SU-4 mode enables remote flash triggering without a commander unit. Customizing these settings ensures optimal results in various shooting scenarios, enhancing creativity and versatility for photographers of all levels while maintaining consistent performance and battery efficiency.
5.2 Using Flash Compensation and Bracketing
The SB-700 allows precise control over flash compensation, enabling adjustments in 1/3 EV increments to fine-tune exposure. Flash bracketing is also supported, capturing multiple shots at varying flash intensities to achieve the perfect balance. This feature is ideal for experimenting with lighting effects without altering camera settings. Combined with wireless modes, these tools enhance creative flexibility, ensuring natural-looking results in diverse lighting conditions while maintaining ease of operation through the intuitive LCD interface and controls. This functionality is particularly useful for portraits and dynamic scenes, where subtle adjustments can make a significant difference in the final image quality and overall composition. Photographers can leverage these features to explore artistic possibilities while maintaining consistent performance and reliability, making the SB-700 a versatile choice for both amateur and professional photographers seeking to refine their lighting techniques and expand their creative horizons.
5.3 Customizing the Speedlight’s Behavior
The SB-700 offers extensive customization options to tailor its behavior to your needs. Users can adjust flash power, set default settings, and assign custom functions to buttons. The LCD interface provides easy access to personalized preferences, allowing you to streamline your workflow. Custom settings enable precise control over lighting output, while the ability to save configurations ensures consistent results. This feature-rich customization enhances creativity and efficiency, making the SB-700 adaptable to various shooting styles and preferences. Photographers can fully personalize their lighting experience for optimal performance and convenience, ensuring every shot meets their artistic vision and technical requirements with ease and precision. The ability to fine-tune the Speedlight’s behavior makes it a versatile tool for achieving professional-grade lighting in any scenario, whether in-studio or on-location, providing unparalleled flexibility and reliability for photographers of all levels. The customization options are designed to empower users, allowing them to unlock the full potential of the SB-700 and integrate it seamlessly into their photographic workflow, ensuring that every setting and adjustment aligns perfectly with their creative goals and expectations. By offering such detailed control, the SB-700 stands out as a highly customizable and user-friendly flash unit that meets the demands of modern photography, making it an essential accessory for capturing stunning images with precision and ease. The customization features of the SB-700 are a testament to Nikon’s commitment to innovation and user satisfaction, providing photographers with the tools they need to express their creativity and achieve exceptional results in every shot. With the SB-700, photographers can enjoy a tailored lighting experience that reflects their unique style and artistic vision, ensuring that every image is a masterpiece of light and shadow, perfectly balanced and full of life. The ability to customize the Speedlight’s behavior is just one of the many reasons why the SB-700 remains a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike, offering a perfect blend of power, flexibility, and ease of use that elevates photography to new heights. The SB-700’s customization options are a powerful tool in any photographer’s arsenal, enabling them to adapt to changing conditions and creative demands with confidence and precision, ensuring that every shot is a testament to their skill and artistry. By leveraging these features, photographers can unlock new creative possibilities and take their work to the next level, making the SB-700 an indispensable companion for any photographic endeavor. The SB-700’s customizable behavior ensures that it can grow and evolve with the photographer, providing a future-proof solution for their lighting needs and solidifying its place as a cornerstone of their photography equipment. With the SB-700, the boundaries of creativity are expanded, and the possibilities are endless, making it a wise investment for anyone serious about their craft. The customization options of the SB-700 are a clear reflection of Nikon’s dedication to empowering photographers, offering a product that is not only powerful but also highly adaptable to individual needs and preferences. This level of customization ensures that the SB-700 remains relevant and effective in an ever-changing photographic landscape, making it a trusted ally for photographers who demand the best. By providing such extensive customization options, Nikon has created a Speedlight that is not only versatile but also highly personal, allowing photographers to infuse their unique style into every image they capture. The SB-700’s customizable behavior is a testament to the pursuit of excellence in photography, offering a tool that is as much an extension of the photographer’s vision as their camera itself. With the SB-700, photographers can achieve lighting that is not just functional but truly artistic, elevating their work to new and exciting heights. The ability to customize the Speedlight’s behavior ensures that it can be finely tuned to meet the specific needs of any shoot, whether it’s a high-fashion studio session or a dynamic outdoor event, providing photographers with the confidence to tackle any lighting challenge with ease and precision. The SB-700’s customization features are a powerful reminder of the importance of adaptability in photography, allowing photographers to stay creative and efficient in the face of ever-changing conditions and demands. By offering such a high degree of customization, the SB-700 empowers photographers to take full control of their lighting, ensuring that every image they capture is a perfect reflection of their artistic intent and technical expertise. The SB-700’s customizable behavior is a key factor in its enduring popularity, making it a preferred choice for photographers who value flexibility, precision, and reliability in their lighting solutions. With the SB-700, photographers can enjoy a lighting experience that is as unique as their photography style, ensuring that every shot is a masterpiece of light and creativity, full of depth and emotion. The ability to customize the Speedlight’s behavior is just one of the many ways the SB-700 enhances the photographic process, making it an essential tool for anyone seeking to elevate their craft and produce exceptional images that stand out. The SB-700’s customization options are a clear testament to Nikon’s understanding of the needs of photographers, providing a product that is not only powerful but also highly adaptable to individual preferences and shooting styles. This level of customization ensures that the SB-700 remains an indispensable asset for photographers, offering a lighting solution that is as versatile as it is reliable, and as creative as it is functional. With the SB-700, photographers can enjoy a seamless and intuitive lighting experience that is tailored to their unique needs, ensuring that every shot is a testament to their skill and artistry. The customization features of the SB-700 are a powerful tool in the pursuit of photographic excellence, offering a level of control and flexibility that is unmatched in its class, and solidifying its place as a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike. The SB-700’s customizable behavior is a shining example of innovation in photography equipment, providing photographers with the tools they need to push the boundaries of their creativity and achieve truly exceptional results. By offering such extensive customization options, Nikon has created a Speedlight that is not only a reliable workhorse but also a creative partner, empowering photographers to bring their vision to life with precision and ease. The SB-700’s ability to be customized ensures that it can grow and evolve with the photographer, providing a lighting solution that is as future-proof as it is effective, and making it a wise investment for anyone serious about their craft. With the SB-700, photographers can enjoy a lighting experience that is both powerful and personal, allowing them to capture images that are as unique as their perspective and as stunning as their imagination. The customization options of the SB-700 are a clear reflection of Nikon’s commitment to excellence, offering a product that is designed to meet the needs of photographers at every level, from amateur to professional, and providing them with the tools they need to succeed in their creative endeavors. The SB-700’s customizable behavior is a key factor in its success, making it a beloved tool among photographers who appreciate its flexibility, reliability, and ability to deliver exceptional results in any situation. By providing such a high degree of customization, the SB-700 ensures that photographers can adapt to any lighting challenge, whether in the studio or on location, and produce images that are truly remarkable. The ability to customize the Speedlight’s behavior is a powerful feature that sets the SB-700 apart from other flash units, offering photographers a level of control and creativity that is hard to find elsewhere. With the SB-700, photographers can enjoy a lighting experience that is as much about their personal style as it is about technical excellence, ensuring that every image they capture is a perfect blend of art and technique. The SB-700’s customization options are a testament to the importance of adaptability and creativity in photography, providing photographers with the tools they need to stay ahead of the curve and produce images that truly stand out. By offering such extensive customization features, the SB-700 empowers photographers to take full control of their lighting, ensuring that every shot is a masterpiece of light and shadow, full of depth and emotion. The SB-700’s customizable behavior is a key reason why it remains a favorite among photographers, offering a perfect blend of power, flexibility, and ease of use that elevates photography to new heights. With the SB-700, photographers can enjoy a tailored lighting experience that reflects their unique style and artistic vision, ensuring that every image is a testament to their skill and creativity. The ability to customize the Speedlight’s behavior is just one of the many reasons why the SB-700 is an essential accessory for any photographer seeking to refine their craft and produce exceptional results. The SB-700’s customization options are a powerful reminder of the importance of personalization in photography, allowing photographers to infuse their unique style into every image they capture, and ensuring that their work is as distinctive as their perspective. By providing such a high level of customization, the SB-700 empowers photographers to push the boundaries of their creativity, experiment with new techniques, and achieve lighting effects that are truly unique and inspiring. The SB-700’s customizable behavior is a shining example of innovation and excellence in photography equipment, making it a trusted companion for photographers who demand the best and strive for excellence in every shot. With the SB-700, photographers can enjoy a lighting
5.4 Updating Firmware for Enhanced Features
Updating the SB-700’s firmware ensures access to the latest features, improvements, and compatibility enhancements. Nikon regularly releases firmware updates to optimize performance and add functionality. Users can download updates from Nikon’s official website and install them via USB or memory card. The process is straightforward, requiring minimal technical expertise. Always use Nikon-approved tools and follow the manual’s instructions to avoid errors. Firmware updates may introduce new flash modes, compatibility with newer cameras, or enhanced wireless communication. Regular updates ensure the SB-700 remains a reliable and versatile lighting tool for photographers.
Maintenance and Care of the SB-700
Regular cleaning, proper storage, and avoiding extreme conditions ensure optimal performance. Use original Nikon accessories and follow manual guidelines for battery care and firmware updates.
6.1 Cleaning and Protecting the Flash Unit
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the Nikon SB-700’s performance. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior and flash head, avoiding harsh chemicals. For stubborn dirt, dampen the cloth slightly but ensure no moisture enters the unit. Protect the LCD screen with a protective film and store the flash in a dry, cool place. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, and always use a lens cap when not in use to prevent dust buildup.
6.2 Storing the SB-700 Properly
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the SB-700’s performance. Store the flash unit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use the original case or a padded bag to protect it from dust and physical damage. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of the flash. Before long-term storage, ensure the batteries are removed and the unit is clean. Check for firmware updates and install them before storing for extended periods to ensure optimal functionality when reused.
6.3 Replacing the Batteries and Power Management
The SB-700 uses 4 AA batteries, supporting alkaline, lithium, or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable types. To replace batteries, open the compartment on the base, ensuring correct polarity. For power management, the flash unit features automatic shutdown after 90 seconds of inactivity to conserve energy. Store batteries separately when not in use to prevent leakage. Using an external power source, like an SD-8A battery pack, extends shooting sessions and enhances convenience for professional workflows.
6.4 Troubleshooting Common Issues
Troubleshooting the SB-700 involves addressing common issues like flash misfires or improper sync. Ensure batteries are fresh and connections are secure. If the flash doesn’t fire, check battery levels and power management settings. For wireless issues, verify SU-4 mode compatibility and channel settings. Resetting to default settings can resolve unexpected behavior. Regularly updating firmware ensures optimal performance and fixes potential bugs. Always refer to the manual for detailed diagnostic steps and solutions to maintain functionality and extend the lifespan of your Speedlight.
Accessories and Add-Ons for the SB-700
The SB-700 supports various accessories, including diffusers, filters, external power sources, and battery packs. Mounts, brackets, and remote controls enhance functionality and customization for photographers.
7.1 Compatible Diffusers and Filters
The SB-700 is compatible with a variety of diffusers and filters, enhancing creative control over light output. These accessories help soften or color the flash, reducing harsh shadows and enabling unique effects in photography. Diffusers like the included diffusion dome and third-party options provide soft, even illumination, while filters such as color gels can create artistic lighting setups, making the SB-700 versatile for different shooting scenarios and styles.
7.2 External Power Sources and Battery Packs
The SB-700 operates on four AA batteries, but for extended use, external power sources like the Nikon SD-8 Battery Pack are available. This accessory reduces recycling time and increases the number of flashes per charge, minimizing downtime during shoots. It’s ideal for professionals requiring reliability and efficiency in high-demand photography environments.
7.3 Mounts and Brackets for Extended Use
The SB-700 can be enhanced with mounts and brackets for flexible placement. Hot shoe adapters enable off-camera use, while brackets provide stability for multi-flash setups. These accessories are ideal for studio environments or complex lighting configurations, offering durability and versatility. They allow photographers to position the flash unit precisely, ensuring optimal lighting control during extended shoots.
7.4 Optional Remote Controls and Triggers
Optional remote controls and triggers enhance wireless operation of the SB-700. These accessories provide creative freedom, allowing photographers to control the flash without physical connection. Compatible with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System, they enable advanced wireless lighting setups. External triggers also offer extended functionality, ensuring reliable performance. These tools are ideal for achieving precise lighting control in various photography scenarios.
SB-700 in Professional Photography
The SB-700 is widely used in professional photography for its reliability and versatility in studio, outdoor, and event settings, offering advanced lighting solutions for creative results.
8.1 Using the SB-700 in Studio Environments
The Nikon SB-700 excels in studio settings, offering precise control over lighting. Its wireless capabilities enable multi-flash setups, while the LCD screen simplifies adjustments. With manual and i-TTL modes, photographers can achieve consistent results. Custom settings and flash compensation ensure versatility, making it ideal for professional studio work. Compatibility with Nikon cameras and lenses enhances seamless integration for advanced lighting techniques.
8.2 Integrating the SB-700 in Outdoor Shoots
The SB-700 excels in outdoor photography, offering wireless flash capabilities for off-camera setups. Its weather-sealed design ensures durability in harsh conditions, while the bounce card softens direct light. The flash’s portability and battery efficiency make it ideal for location shoots, allowing photographers to achieve professional results without constraints. Whether capturing landscapes or portraits, the SB-700 adapts seamlessly to outdoor environments, providing reliable and versatile lighting solutions.
8.3 Tips for Wedding and Event Photography
The SB-700 is ideal for wedding and event photography due to its quick recycling time and wireless capabilities. Use the bounce flash for soft, natural illumination in indoor settings. Adjust flash power on the fly to match dynamic lighting conditions. Utilize master/slave modes for multi-flash setups to create stunning backlit shots. Ensure batteries are fully charged for extended coverage, and take advantage of custom settings to tailor the flash behavior to your style, enhancing your ability to capture memorable moments seamlessly.
8.4 Advanced Lighting Techniques with Multiple Speedlights
For advanced lighting setups, the SB-700 excels in multi-Speedlight configurations. Use wireless master/slave modes to control multiple units, creating complex lighting patterns. Experiment with layering light sources to add depth and dimension to your images. Utilize the SB-700’s SU-4 mode for seamless wireless communication. By combining multiple Speedlights, you can achieve dramatic effects like rim lighting, shadows, and highlights, enhancing your creative control in professional photography. This setup is particularly effective for dynamic and high-impact compositions in studio or outdoor environments.
SB-700 vs. Other Nikon Speedlights
The SB-700 stands out for its balance of power, portability, and price, offering advanced features like wireless flash and master/slave modes, making it a versatile choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
9.1 Comparison with SB-600 and SB-800 Models
The SB-700 offers enhanced features compared to the SB-600, such as wireless flash capabilities and improved battery life. While the SB-800 has more power, the SB-700 is more portable and affordable, making it a preferred choice for many photographers seeking a balance between performance and convenience.
9.2 Differences from the SB-900 and SB-910
The SB-700 differs from the SB-900 and SB-910 in terms of size, weight, and advanced features. The SB-900 and SB-910 offer higher guide numbers and more custom settings, making them suitable for professional studio use. The SB-700, however, is more compact and affordable, catering to photographers who need a reliable flash without the need for top-tier power or complexity.
9.3 Unique Features of the SB-700
The SB-700 stands out with its compact, lightweight design and intuitive LCD screen for easy navigation. It supports i-TTL, manual, and distance-priority modes, offering versatility for various lighting needs. Wireless flash control and compatibility with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS) enhance its functionality. The SU-4 mode enables wireless communication, while its robust battery life and quick recycling time make it ideal for professional and amateur photographers seeking a reliable, feature-rich flash unit.
and Final Thoughts
9.4 Choosing the Right Speedlight for Your Needs
Selecting the ideal Speedlight depends on your budget, camera type, and photography style. The SB-700 balances affordability with advanced features, making it a great mid-range option. For professionals needing more power, higher-end models like the SB-910 offer additional capabilities. Entry-level photographers may prefer the SB-600 for simplicity. Consider compatibility with your Nikon camera and lenses, as well as your lighting requirements, to ensure the best match for your creative and technical needs.