Nikon Autofocus Speedlight SB-27 Instruction Manual
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Nikon Autofocus Speedlight SB-27 Instruction Manual

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Summary of Contents for Nikon Autofocus Speedlight SB-27

  • Page 1 Autofocus Speedlight Autofocus Speedlight Autofocus Speedlight SB-27 SB-27 Instruction Manual...

  • Page 2: Foreword

    In this manual, we have divided Nikon SLR cameras into seven groups (from I to VII) unless otherwise noted. You will find all the information you need to learn about using the SB-27 with your camera in the section corresponding to your camera group.

  • Page 3: Camera Groups

    VII. *8 Sold exclusively in the USA and Canada. *For cameras such as the Nikon F or Nikon F2, refer to Group VII. NOTE: For details on the SB-27's available TTL Auto Flash operations, see the separate Quick Reference sheet and the Glossary of terms on pages 83 to 88.

  • Page 4: About This Manual

    CPU * Except AF Nikkor lenses for F3AF ** IX Nikkor lenses are designed for use with the Nikon Advanced Photo System (IX240) format SLR camera body only and cannot be used with 35mm SLR cameras. Notices used in this manual Denotes important points where caution or mandatory action is required.

  • Page 5: Tips On Using The Speedlight

    Speedlight. —Nikon cannot be held responsible for malfunctions caused by using the SB-27 in ways not specified in this manual, or using the SB-27 with a camera made by another manufacturer. For further details on camera operation, read the instruction manual provided with each camera before use.

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Standby function ....... . . 12-13 Attaching the SB-27 to the camera ..... . 14 Adjusting the flash head .
  • Page 7 About NiCd batteries ......82 Using the SB-27 in low temperatures ....82 Glossary of terms .

  • Page 8: Speedlight Parts

    Speedlight parts 1 Built-in diffuser card (See page 53.) 2 Built-in bounce flash adapter (See page 52.) 3 Flash head (See page 15.) 4 Red-eye reduction lamp 5 Light sensor for Non-TTL Auto Flash operation 6 AF assist illuminator LED (See page 47.) 7 “F”...

  • Page 9: Lcd Panel Indications

    LCD panel indications 1 Red-eye reduction control indicator 2 Zoom-head position indicator 3 Flash mode indicator Ø Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor ø Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash t Standard TTL Flash Non-TTL Auto Flash ˙ ƒ Manual Flash 4 Aperture indicator •...

  • Page 10: Preparations For Taking Flash Photographs

    Preparations for taking flash photographs...

  • Page 11: Installing Batteries

    Install four penlight batteries and close the battery chamber lid. Do not mix battery brands or types, or new and old batteries. NOTE Replace the batteries within 30 seconds after turning OFF the power of the SB-27 to preserve data settings.

  • Page 12: Standby Function

    • Shutter speed is set at M90 or B (Bulb) (for FG and Nikonos V). • Shutter speed is set at B (bulb) (for FM3 When your SB-27 is not in use or if you carry it in a bag, we recommend setting the flash mode selector to OFF to avoid...

  • Page 13: Standby Function

    TTL Auto Flash, and ˙ mode with the camera without TTL Auto Flash capability. —Be sure to turn the SB-27's power OFF when the camera setting switch is set to ˚ as the standby function will not work. For F50-Series/N50, F-601/N6006, and F-601 If camera power shuts OFF with the camera setting switch (inside the SB-27's battery chamber) set to ˚, the...

  • Page 14: Attaching The Sb-27 To The Camera

    With cameras equipped with a safety lock system, the mount pin is automatically inserted into the locking hole in the camera's accessory shoe to secure the SB-27. To detach the SB-27, loosen the mounting foot locking wheel all the way. (See page 9.)

  • Page 15: Adjusting The Flash Head

    Adjusting the flash head The flash head rotates from the horizontal to the vertical position along a 180° arc. From the horizontal position, simply tilt the flash head up 90° until it clicks into position. Keep the flash head in the horizontal position for normal flash shooting.

  • Page 16: Selecting A Measurement System (Meters/Feet)

    Set the flash mode selector from “OFF” to “M” or “AUTO” while holding down the “F” button and select the desired indication (m or ft). —If you replace the batteries with the SB-27's power ON, the measurement system returns to the default meters (m) system, even if feet (ft) had been previously set.

  • Page 17: The Ready-Light

    The ready-light The ready-light comes ON when charging is completed. ZOOM When the SB-27 is fully charged and ready to fire, the ready-light comes ON. Be sure to check that the ready-light is ON when releasing the shutter. The ready-light blinks when flash fires at its maximum output.

  • Page 18: Test Firing With The Open-Flash Button

    Set the flash mode selector to “M” or “AUTO”. ZOOM The ready-light comes ON when the SB-27 is ready to fire. Check if the ready-light is ON and press the open-flash button to ensure that the SB-27 is firing properly.

  • Page 19: Setting Iso Film Speed

    Setting ISO film speed The following ISO film speeds can be used in AUTO mode: • ISO 25 to ISO 1000 for cameras in Groups I thru IV, and F-501/N2020, F-301/N2000 cameras. • ISO 25 to ISO 400 for cameras in Groups VI and VII, and F-401s/N4004s and F-401/N4004 cameras.

  • Page 20: Setting Zoom-Head Position

    Setting zoom-head position In the horizontal position, the SB-27 has four zoom-head position settings: 24mm, 28mm, 35mm and 50mm. Three zoom-head position settings are available in the vertical position: 35mm, 50mm and 70mm. —All the above stops are indicated in the LCD panel.

  • Page 21: The Lcd Panel

    Other camera/lens combinations Adjust the zoom-head position manually to provide an angle of coverage that matches the focal length of the lens in use. ZOOM Press the “ZOOM” button to adjust the zoom-head position. —The indicator changes every time you press the “ZOOM” button. When using a Zoom-Nikkor lens, set the lens at its shortest length in order to cover the full zoom length range: (e.g., select the 28mm setting when using a Zoom-Nikkor 28–85mm lens.)

  • Page 22: Basic Flash Operation

    Basic flash operation This section describes which SB-27 flash operations are available in AUTO mode for each camera group. Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor For details on each flash operation, refer to the Glossary of terms on pages 83 to 88.

  • Page 23: Selecting A Flash Mode

    ･ Standard TTL Flash ･ Standard TTL Flash ･ Non-TTL Auto Flash *The SB-27's flash mode indicator changes every time the “M” button is pressed. ** Center-Weighted Fill-Flash/Spot Fill-Flash is not possible with F80-Series/N80-Series and Pronea 600i/6i cameras. ***Only possible when the camera setting switch is set to ˚. (See page 13.) ****Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor is a general term for both 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash.

  • Page 24: Flash Operation In Auto Mode (Cameras In Group I: F5, F100, F90X/N90S, F90-Series/N90, F80-Series/N80-Series, F70-Series/N70)

    • AI-P-type Nikkor lenses Nikkor lenses without built-in CPU *1 Press the “M” button to change the SB-27’s flash mode indicator. *2 If the F5, F100, or F80-Series/N80-Series is set to Spot Metering, flash operation is automatically set to Standard TTL Flash.

  • Page 25: F5, F100, F90X/N90S, F90-Series/N90, F80-Series/N80-Series

    Group I: F5, F100, F90X/N90s, F90-Series/N90, F80-Series/N80-Series, F70-Series/N70) Setting aperture and confirming flash shooting Exposure distance range* mode 1) Set the lens to its minimum aperture (highest f-number) (except G-type Nikkor lenses) 2) Press the shutter release button halfway and check the flash shooting distance range in the LCD panel.

  • Page 26: Flash Operation In Auto Mode (Cameras In Group Ii: F4-Series, F65-Series/N65-Series, F-801S/N8008S, F-801/N8008, Pronea 600I/6I)

    *3 S: Shutter-priority auto, P: Programmed auto, A: Aperture-priority auto, M: Manual *4 Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash operation is only possible with F4-Series camera even when AI-S or AI-type Nikkor lenses, Nikon Series E lenses, and lenses for the F3AF are mounted. With a non-CPU lens attached to Pronea 600i/6i cameras, set the exposure mode to Manual only.

  • Page 27: F4-Series, F65-Series/N65-Series, F-801S/N8008S

    Group II: F4-Series, F65-Series/N65-Series, F-801s/N8008s, F-801/N8008, Pronea 600i/6i) Exposure Setting aperture and confirming flash shooting mode* distance range 1) Set the lens to its minimum aperture (highest f-number) (except G-type Nikkor lenses) 2) Press the shutter release button halfway and check the shooting distance range in the LCD panel.

  • Page 28: Flash Operation In Auto Mode (Cameras In Group Iii: F-601/N6006, F-601 M /N6000)

    Flash operation in AUTO mode Procedures Lens in use Nikkor lenses* with built-in CPU Nikkor lenses without built-in Available flash operation Matrix Balanced tø Fill-Flash Center- Weighted/Spot tø Fill-Flash Standard TTL Flash Center- Weighted/Spot tø Fill-Flash Standard TTL Flash G-type Nikkor lenses cannot be used with an F-601/N6006 camera.
  • Page 29 Group III: F-601/N6006, F-601 Exposure Setting aperture and confirming flash mode shooting distance range 1) Set the lens to its minimum aperture (highest f-number)(except G-type Nikkor lenses). 2) Press the shutter release button halfway and read the controlled aperture in the camera's viewfinder. 3) Press the “F”...

  • Page 30: Flash Operation In Auto Mode (Cameras In Group Iv: F60-Series/N60, F50-Series/N50, F-401X/N5005)

    Flash operation in AUTO mode Procedures Lens in use Nikkor lenses with built-in CPU Nikkor lenses without built-in CPU Available flash operation Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash Center- Weighted Fill-Flash Center- Weighted Fill-Flash (Cameras in Camera's exposure mode • Programmed auto (P) •...
  • Page 31 Aperture setting on SB-27 * *With an F50-Series/N50 camera in the SIMPLE mode, select the aperture from the table above and set the same aperture on the SB-27’s LCD panel by pressing the SB-27’s “F” button. Then confirm the flash shooting distance range.

  • Page 32: Flash Operation In Auto Mode (Cameras In Group V: F-501/N2020, F-301/N2000)

    Lens in use • Nikkor lenses with built-in CPU* • Nikkor lenses for F3AF • AI-S-type Nikkor lenses • AI-type Nikkor lenses • Nikon Series E lenses *G-type Nikkor lenses cannot be used. Other Nikkor lenses Available flash operation Programmed...
  • Page 33 Group V: F-501/N2020, F-301/N2000) Setting aperture and confirming flash shooting distance range 1) Set the lens to its minimum aperture (highest f-number). 2) Read the suggested aperture for the film in use in the table below, press the "F" button to set the corresponding aperture in the LCD panel, then confirm the flash shooting distance range.

  • Page 34: Flash Operation In Auto Mode (Cameras In Group V: F-401S/N4004S, F-401/N4004)

    Flash operation in AUTO mode Procedures Lens in use Nikkor lenses with built-in CPU Nikkor lenses without built-in CPU Available flash operation Programmed • Programmed TTL Auto auto (P) Flash • Shutter-priority auto (S) • Aperture- Standard TTL Flash • Manual (M) Standard TTL Flash Manual (M)
  • Page 35 Group V: F-401s/N4004s, F-401/N4004) Setting aperture and confirming flash shooting distance range 1) Set the lens to its minimum aperture (highest f-number) (except G-type Nikkor lenses). 2) Read the aperture in the table below, and press the “F” button to set the corresponding aperture in the LCD panel, then confirm the flash shooting distance range.

  • Page 36: Flash Operation In Auto Mode (Cameras In Group Vi: Fm3 A , Fa, Fe2, Fg, Nikonos V)

    Flash operation in AUTO mode Procedures Lens in use Nikkor lenses with built-in CPU* Nikkor lenses without built-in CPU *G-type Nikkor lenses cannot be used. Do not use the SB-27 for underwater photography. (Cameras in Available flash operation Standard TTL Flash...
  • Page 37 Group VI: FM3 , FA, FE2, FG, Nikonos V) Camera's exposure mode Aperture-priority auto (A) * Manual (M)* *1 In this exposure mode, shutter speed is automatically set to 1/250 sec. (for FM3 , FA, FE2), and 1/90 sec. (for FG, Nikonos V). *2 Standard TTL Flash is not possible if the shutter speed is set to M250 or B (bulb) (for FA, FE2), and M90 or B (Bulb) (for FG, Nikonos V).

  • Page 38: Flash Operation In Auto Mode (Cameras In Group Vii: F3-Series, F55-Series/N55-Series, New Fm2, Fm10, Fe10)

    Nikkor lenses without built-in CPU *G-type Nikkor lenses cannot be used. NOTE • Set the lens to the same aperture value as in the SB-27 to obtain a correct exposure. • A usable aperture value appears in the SB-27's LCD panel whenever you press the “F”...
  • Page 39 F3-Series, F55-Series/N55-Series, New FM2, FM10, FE10) Camera's exposure mode • Aperture-priority auto (A) • Manual (M) Setting aperture and confirming flash shooting distance range 1) While looking at the indicator bars, press the “F” button to change the aperture and bring the subject within flash shooting distance range.

  • Page 40: If The Ready-Light Blinks After Shooting

    For example, when shooting with ISO 100 film, at a 35mm zoom-head position and an aperture of f/5.6: D=14/5.6 = 2.5 (far side) [measured in meters] You can read a shooting distance (near side) of 0.6m from the SB-27’s indicator bars. Therefore, the flash shooting distance ranges from 0.6m to 2.5m.

  • Page 41: Advanced Flash Operation

    Advanced flash operation This section describes advanced flash shooting applications with the SB-27 Speedlight. Bounce flash Multiple flash...

  • Page 42: Flash Operation In Manual (M) Mode

    Flash operation in Manual (M) mode With the SB-27's flash mode selector set to “M,” light output can be manually controlled. —Indicator bar “¡” in the LCD panel shows the approximate flash shooting distance range. To determine the correct aperture value, see page 46 on “Guide numbers for determining the correct aperture.”...
  • Page 43 You can select light output settings ranging from full power (1/1) to one-sixteenth (1/16). LCD indicators change as follows: Setting the aperture on both the SB-27 and the camera Cameras in Groups I and II with Nikkor lenses with built-in CPU Rotate the camera's command dial or lens aperture dial;...
  • Page 44 Flash operation in Manual (M) mode (For cameras Other camera/lens combinations ZOOM 1) While looking at the indicator bar “¡”, press the “F” button to change the aperture and bring the subject within flash shooting distance range. Next, read the aperture value. 2) Set the corresponding value on the lens aperture ring or on the camera.
  • Page 45 Synchronization in continuous shooting The SB-27 is able to recycle fast enough to synchronize with a motor-driven camera firing continuously up to 15 flashes per second. It is possible to take up to four full flash pictures in rapid succession at a light output ranging from 1/8 to 1/16 (using the SB-27’s internal batteries) in Manual (M) Flash mode.

  • Page 46: Guide Numbers For Determining Correct Aperture

    Guide numbers for determining correct aperture The “guide number” represents the amount of light generated by the flash. With the SB-27 in Manual (M) Flash mode, you can calculate a correct aperture (f/stop) value by using the following equation and the “Guide number” table.

  • Page 47: Autofocus Flash Operation In Dim Light (For Af Slr Cameras Only)

    When ambient light is insufficient for autofocus operation, the SB-27's AF assist illuminator LED automatically turns ON to give contrast to dark subjects, enabling the camera's autofocus system to function when the shutter release button is pressed halfway.
  • Page 48 5) The ready-light is ON. If the ready-light becomes dim or blinks after the AF assist illuminator LED lights up, replace the SB-27's batteries with a fresh set. *If the AF assist illuminator LED comes ON but no in-focus indicator appears in the camera's viewfinder with the shutter release button pressed halfway, the subject is beyond autofocus distance range.

  • Page 49: Bounce Flash Operation (For Cameras In All Groups)

    The flash head rotates from the horizontal to the vertical position along a 180° arc. Built-in diffuser card The SB-27 comes with a built-in diffuser card, useful for highlighting a subject's eyes during bounce flash operation. (See page 53.) Bounce flash shooting using...
  • Page 50 Bounce flash operation Notes on taking pictures with vertical bounce flash The settings of the built-in bounce flash adapter and the diffuser card vary depending on the focal length of the lens in use. Nikkor lenses 35mm and longer Set the built-in bounce flash adapter as shown. —When set as above, you cannot use Nikkor lenses wider than 35mm.

  • Page 51: Procedures For Bounce Flash Operation

    We recommend that you select wider aperture (lowest possible f-number) and bracket to ensure correct exposure. Set the SB-27's flash mode selector to "AUTO". ZOOM Make sure you set the camera setting switch to K with cameras in Groups I thru VI, and to ˚...
  • Page 52 —In bounce flash operation, no indicator bars appear in the LCD panel. (The SB-27 no longer indicates the correct relationship between aperture and flash shooting distance range.) (Applicable to all camera groups) , then raise it approx.

  • Page 53: Highlight Your Subject's Eyes With Bounced Flash

    Highlight your subject’s eyes using bounced flash The SB-27 comes with a built-in bounce flash adapter for bouncing diffused light off the ceiling. The diffuser card brightens shadows caused by top-lighting or bouncing flash, making your subject’s eyes appear more vibrant.

  • Page 54: Close-Up Flash Operation In Auto Mode (Cameras In Groups I Thru Vi)

    Two methods are possible (1) Mounting the SB-27 on the camera (See page 56.) (2) Connecting the SB-27 to the camera using an optional TTL Remote Cord (See page 59.) —With a very light or dark-toned subject, you may not get a correct exposure due to the subject's reflection factor.
  • Page 55 Notes on close-up flash operation Take note of the following points when shooting close-ups with the SB-27 mounted on the camera. Usable lenses are limited. Avoid using any Nikkor lens whose actual length is shorter than that of the built-in bounce flash adapter ( line in the illustration).

  • Page 56: Procedures

    Close-up flash operation in AUTO mode Procedures (with the SB-27 mounted on the camera) Set the camera's exposure mode to aperture-priority auto (A) or manual (M). —For cameras in Group I to VI, in addition to selecting Aperture Priority or Manual, the Close Up Program within the Vari-Programs can also be used.
  • Page 57 VI) Set up the diffuser card as shown. The SB-27's built-in diffuser card is effective for close-up flash operation from 0.3m (1 ft). —Avoid using the built-in diffuser card for close-up flash operation in non-TTL Auto Flash mode. (You cannot obtain a correct exposure if the diffuser card is set.) Set the camera’s aperture based on the following equation and table.

  • Page 58: Close-Up Flash Operation Using An Ttl Remote Cord

    After first setting the camera’s exposure mode to A or M, set the SB-27’s flash mode selector to “AUTO.” Position the SB-27 properly and adjust the angle. —Be sure to position the SB-27 and adjust the angle so as to sufficiently illuminate the subject.
  • Page 59 "M" button to change the flash mode indicator from tØ to t in order to cancel Monitor Preflash*. This will avoid exposure errors when removing the SB-27 from the camera. (See page 63.) *See page 86 on Monitor Preflash.

  • Page 60: Exposure Compensation For Flash Photography (Cameras In Groups I Thru Iii)

    Exposure compensation for flash photography "Plus" compensation In AUTO (TTL Auto Flash) mode, difficult scenes, such as bright objects in the background, or a main subject at the edge of the frame, may cause overexposure or underexposure. You can manually adjust the exposure (compensate the Speedlight's light output level in TTL Auto Flash mode) to make the picture lighter or darker.

  • Page 61: Cameras In Groups I And Ii

    If you use both controls, exposure is modified by the sum total of both exposure compensation values. For example, with a compensation of +1EV on the SB-27 and +1EV on the camera, the background will be +1EV and the flash output will be +2EV.

  • Page 62: Canceling Exposure Compensation

    For example, with ISO 100 film, if you want to compensate by +1EV on the camera, set the ISO film speed to 50 on the SB-27’s LCD panel; if you want to compensate by –2EV, set the ISO film speed to 400.

  • Page 63: Multiple Flash Operation-Using More Than One Speedlight (Applicable To All Camera Groups)

    NOTE Cameras in Group I With the SB-27 as the master flash set to 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill- Flash, you may not be able to obtain correct exposure because of a change in lighting conditions between initial Monitor Preflash* and actual flash firings.

  • Page 64: Ttl Multiple Flash Operation Procedures

    Using the SB-27 as a slave flash unit (for cameras in Groups I thru VI) When using the SB-27 as a slave unit, set the camera setting switch to ˚ in order to activate the Forced TTL function (see page 69). Forced TTL simply disables the standby function. If the camera setting switch is set to K, the standby function will work and the slave flash will not fire.
  • Page 65 Speedlight coefficients SB-80DX (1), SB-50DX (1), SB-30 (1), SB-29s/29 (1), SB-28/28DX (1), SB-27 (1), SB-26 (1), SB-25 (1), SB-24 (1), SB-23 (4), SB-22s (1), SB-22 (6), SB-21 (4), SB-20 (9), SB-17 (4), SB-16 (4), SB-15 (4), SB-14 (1), SB-11 (1), SB-140 (1) Coefficient numbers in parentheses above are in units of 70µA.

  • Page 66: System Chart For Ttl Multiple Flash

    SB-11 SC-23 SB-21B SB-20 SB-22 SB-22s SB-15 SB-24 SB-25 SB-26 SB-16B SC-17 SB-16A SB-17 SC-14 Items marked A on page 66 are connected to item A on page 67. AS-17 SB-14 SB-140 SB-23 SB-27 SB-30 SB-50DX SB-29/29s SB-28/28DX SB-80DX SB-21A...
  • Page 67 SB-15 SB-20 SC-19 (3m/9.8 ft.) AS-10 SB-16A AS-11 Slave flash unit SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/28DX AS-10 SB-14 SB-11 SB-140 SB-21B SB-22 SB-22s SB-27 SB-16B SB-24 SB-25 SB-26 SB-28/28DX SB-17 SB-21A AS-11 AS-11 SB-29/29s SB-80DX SC-18 SC-19 SB-30 SB-29/29s SB-80DX SC-18 SC-19...

  • Page 68: Manual Multiple Flash Operation Procedures

    Sync Cord SC-11/SC-15 TTL Remote Cord SC-17 TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18/SC-19 Use the sync terminal for connecting the SB-27 with other Speedlight slave units via optional sync cords. Set Manual (M) Flash mode on each Speedlight. Setting up a master flash unit and slave unit(s) Set the zoom-head position and the flash-to-subject shooting distance on the master flash unit.

  • Page 69: Setting Forced Ttl And Forced A Modes (Applicable To All Camera Groups)

    Set the camera setting switch (inside the SB-27's battery chamber) to ˚. Switch the flash mode selector from OFF to AUTO while holding down the "ZOOM" button. ZOOM —The t indictor in the LCD panel blinks to indicate that the SB-27 is in Forced TTL mode.

  • Page 70: Forced A Mode

    • In non-TTL Auto Flash mode, choose aperture-priority auto (A) or manual (M) exposure mode, and when the same aperture is set on both the SB-27 and the camera, correct exposure is achieved. • The subject will be overexposed if you set a larger (lower f-number) aperture on the camera than on the SB-27.

  • Page 71: Red-Eye Reduction Control (For Cameras In Group I [Except F5] And Pronea 600I/6I)

    —When red-eye reduction or red-eye reduction in slow-sync is set on- camera, the red-eye reduction control indicator SB-27's LCD panel. —You cannot set the red-eye reduction function from the SB-27. Refer to your camera's Instruction Manual for details on setting the red-eye reduction function.

  • Page 72: Other Information

    Other information This section covers troubleshooting procedures, optional accessories, tips on Speedlight care, and contains a glossary of terms.

  • Page 73: Using An External Power Source

    To use a DC Unit, connect its power cord to the SB-27's external power source terminal. —Even when powered with a DC Unit, the SB-27 still requires batteries inside the flash unit. Do not remove the batteries. Available external power source...

  • Page 74: Connecting The Sb-27 To A Camera With A Sync Cord

    To connect the SB-27 to a camera with a sync cord, connect the sync cord to the SB-27's sync terminal. Usable sync cords SC-11, SC-15 To connect the SB-27 to a camera without a sync terminal, use Sync Terminal Adapter AS-15 (optional). When connected by a sync cord, the SB-27's normal functions are inoperative, except for flash firing.

  • Page 75: Warning Indications On The Camera

    In TTL mode, the flash ready-light blinks to indicate that the ISO film speed of the film in use is higher than the ISO setting in the SB-27's LCD panel, (or lower also in the case of the FA camera). FA, FE2, FG, and Nikonos V In TTL mode, the flash ready-light blinks when the shutter speed is set to either M90, M250, or B setting.

  • Page 76: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Warning indicator No J ･ Batteries are not indicator correctly installed. appears. ･ Battery power is weak. ･ Battery contacts inside the battery chamber are contaminated. ･ Battery power is Power turns OFF. exhausted. ･ Camera setting switch is set to K for cameras in Group VII.

  • Page 77: Optional Accessories

    SB-27 on a camera without an accessory shoe, or performing Multiple Flash operation in manual (M) mode with the SB-27. The SC-11 is approx. 25 cm (9.8 in.) long; the SC-15 is approx. 1m (3.2 ft.) long.
  • Page 78 Optional accessories TTL Flash Unit Coupler AS-17 for F3-Series cameras Dedicated adapter for F3-Series cameras providing TTL flash operation with Nikon Speedlights such as SB-27 and SB-28 featuring ISO-type mounting foot (not designed for F3). DC Unit SD-7 An external power source that increases the number of flash firings, and provides faster recycling time.

  • Page 79: Tips On Speedlight Care

    —The SB-27 houses high-voltage circuitry which is highly dangerous. Keep the SB-27 away from water Do not expose the SB-27 to rain or water as it is not waterproof. —If water gets inside the SB-27, the internal parts may corrode, resulting...

  • Page 80: Tips On Speedlight Care

    Storage Store the SB-27 in a cool, dry place to prevent mold. Also keep it away from chemicals such as camphor or naphthalene. Avoid exposing the SB-27 to magnetic waves (TV or radio) and high...

  • Page 81: Notes On Batteries

    • Do not disassemble, short-circuit or heat batteries. Do not dispose of batteries by burning, as explosions may result. • If the SB-27 is not in use for more than two weeks, remove the batteries from the flash unit and keep them in a cool, dry place below 20°C (68°F).

  • Page 82: About Nicd Batteries

    When taking photographs in low temperatures, use fresh batteries, and keep a set of spares in a warm place (e.g. a coat pocket), or use fully-charged NiCd batteries. The SB-27 will not fire if weak batteries are used in low temperatures.

  • Page 83: Glossary Of Terms

    Glossary of terms 1/300 TTL High-Speed Sync Flash ... . 84 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash ..84 Autofocus assist illumination ....84 Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor .
  • Page 84 This is available with the SB-27 set to AUTO (TTL) and the camera’s exposure mode set to S or M. In this case the SB-27’s guide number is approx. 14 (at the 35mm zoom-head position, ISO 100: for m).
  • Page 85 Bounce flash operation Bounce the light off the ceiling or walls to illuminate the subject indirectly, softening shadows and producing more natural portraits. The SB-27 comes with a built-in wide flash adapter for this purpose. (Applicable to all camera groups) Catchlight By using the SB-27’s built-in diffuser and bouncing the light off the...
  • Page 86 In Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash with TTL Multi Sensor mode, immediately after you depress the shutter release button and before the shutter is activated, the SB-27 fires a brief series of nearly invisible preflashes known as Monitor Preflash. These preflashes are detected by the camera's TTL Multi Sensor, then analyzed for brightness and contrast ensuring optimal exposure.
  • Page 87 This mode automatically controls flash output so as to keep both subject and background perfectly exposed. The SB-27 fires a series of nearly invisible preflashes or Monitor Preflash, which are detected by the TTL multi-sensor (5-segment sensor) in Group I cameras to help determine the best exposure for both subject and background.

  • Page 88: Glossary Of Terms

    Glossary of terms Red-eye reduction The SB-27's red-eye reduction lamp lights up for approx. 1 sec. before the flash fires. This prevents eyes from appearing red in color pictures or white in B/W pictures, a phenomenon known as “red-eye” effect.

  • Page 89: Specifications

    1/1 (full) 25/82 17.7/58 12.5/41 8.8/29 1/16 6.2/20 position (set camera setting switch to K); power automatically turns OFF after approx. 80 seconds when both SB-27 and camera are not in use. Vertical Horizontal 60° 78° 53° 70° 46° 60°...
  • Page 90 (optional) DC Unit SD-8/8A: AA-type alkaline-manganese (x 6) or AA-type NiCd batteries (x 6) Number of flashes Batteries installed in the SB-27 and recycling time Manual full output without use of AF assist illuminator LED, and zoom operation. Above data may vary according to battery brands or performance.
  • Page 91 • AUTO mode: Blinks for approx. 3 seconds when Open-flash button • Performs test firing. • Turns the SB-27 ON again after it has been turned Built-in diffuser card Used in bounce flash operation to create catchlight in subject’s eyes.
  • Page 92 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. FUJI BLDG., 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO 100-8331, JAPAN...

This manual is also suitable for:

Sb27 - sb 27 - hot-shoe clip-on flash

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