The SB-700 Speedlight Shoe Mount Flash from Nikon is an
on-camera flash, designed for use with Nikon DSLR cameras that use the
i-TTL metering system. It is compatible with DX and FX sensors, and its
power zoom head covers a 24-120mm range when used with an FX camera.
You'll be able to use the strobe directly on your camera via the hot
shoe, or wirelessly as a Commander or Remote. Using the flash as a
Commander allows you it to take control over other Nikon Speedlights,
expanding your creative lighting options. As a Remote, it can be
controlled by another Speedlight, or your camera's built-in flash. Its
Quick Wireless Mode, with A:B light ratios, allows you to quickly adjust
settings on multiple flash units -- giving you the ability to control
two remote units in i-TTL mode.
It features a dot-matrix LCD control panel with an intuitive layout for
easy operation. It derives power from AA batteries -- supporting
rechargeable NiMH, disposable Alkaline, and disposable Lithium cells.
Recycle time is a scant 2.5 seconds when using NiMH, 3 seconds when
using Alkaline.
The SB-700's Thermal Cut-Out detection prevents the flash from
overheating. It increases the recycling time if the temperature of the
flash head crosses a certain threshold, preventing the unit from
becoming damaged.
The strobe includes hard plastic-type color filters for fluorescent and
incandescent color temperature balancing. When you use these supplied
filters, the flash is able to recognize which filter is installed,
adjusting the white balance automatically on compatible Nikon DSLR
cameras. It also features an AF-assist illuminator lamp, which helps to
speed up the autofocus of your camera in low-light situations.
The SB-700 supports three illumination patterns -- standard,
center-weighted, and even -- for use in different shooting situations.
Standard mode provides conventional flash coverage. Even mode covers the
subject with even light across the entire frame, perfect for group
photos where even illumination is desired. Center-weighted mode directs
the light to the center of the frame, creating a vignette around your
subject that is suitable for portraiture.