FLASH!!! This just in!!!

What is it?
The Nikon SB400 flash is a small and very simple to use flash, most at home aboard the more recent DSLR cameras from Nikon and won't work on any film cameras except for the new F6. Basically everything from the D70 until now will work with this unit. It ships with a cute little case, manual and warranty cards.

Why do I need it?
Most folks who have a Nikon DSLR and use the built in flash are missing out on roughly 30% of what these cameras can do. Many shots can be improved with an external flash, even one this small. Quality of lighting is improved, red eye reduced and shot-to-shot speed is improved. For around 110 bucks there's little excuse not to buy this, but I will suggest an alternative a little later. If you're spying this model for a small more portable unit to sub for an SB600 or SB800, you have the exact right idea. Go buy one!

What's wrong with it?
Well, for starters, it has no focus module. The SB600 for 70 dollars more uses IF beams to vastly improve autofocus on these cameras. So in addition to better pictures, you get improved focusing. The tiny SB400, to save on size, does not do this. Still, with a D80, focus is fine most of the time as the D80 has an excellent focus module on it's own. The SB400 lacks the ability to swivel and does not have a flip down diffuser as found on the SB600. It's short stature also puts the flash point closer to the lens, making red eye events more probable. It lacks wireless mode and all of the little tricks that 70 dollars more buys you with a SB600. In an odd way, the low priced SB400 actually makes it obvious that the SB600 is a great deal among flashes these days. The SB800, which I also own costs around 300 dollars, has even more power and a built in bounce card. More most people, the SB600 is more than they'll ever need.

What's right with it?
I bought one because it's cute! Okay, I really bought one to use with my D80, as the SB800 will be used with my new D300 (hopefully coming by November). The SB400 is VERY small and light and does a wonderful job with no fuss at all. In most cases it's nearly as good as the SB600 when I'm just shooting for fun. It means less to carry and creates a much lower profile camera. It's an ideal second or third flash for your kit. Exposure is just about always bang on!

Battery life?
Excellent. With two 2600 rechargeables I got great life and even regular duracells worked for a long time.

Build quality?
Also excellent. I see no faults in it's construction.

Final suggestions?
Well.......If you are buying a first flash and SB600 is truly the best deal going in flashes these days. It just does a LOT more for just 70 dollars more or so. It's a flash that can grow with your hobby. If you're on a ultra strict money diet, then the SB400 is still a nice flash that will add to your shots. For folks who immediately see the appeal of this little flash compared to an SB600/800 they already own, go for it! It's a slick little flash. Nikon designed it for lower end cameras like the D40 series, but a lot of pros will have to have one too!

Cheers,


Capt. RB