The Nikon SB-80DX flash is an advance flash design for Nikon F-series film cameras or D-series digital SLRs. The SB-80DX features a classic TTL (through the lens) feature that automatically adjusts flash output for the photographer. The SB-80DX also has a manual mode for flash output as well as an adjustable flash head. Photographers are also able to connect multiple SB-80DX's to synchronize the automatic TTL feature in multiple lights.
Instructions
1. Mount the SB-80DX onto your Nikon SLR by sliding it onto the hot shoe from behind the camera. Tighten the mounting foot-lock lever on the flash so that it's securely holding onto the hot shoe
2. Switch the SB80DX into the on position. Make sure the LCD panel reads "TTL" mode if you would like for the camera to evaluate exposure compensation for the flash. Press the "mode" key to switch to manual mode. Hold down the select button and press up or down on the directional pad to adjust flash exposure compensation.
3. Wait for the red "ready" light to illuminate before taking pictures with the SB-80DX. The red light indicates the flash has recycled and is ready to fire again. As the flash is fired more, it will take longer to recycle. If the ready light takes longer than several second to come back on, it is time to change batteries.
4. Press the modeling illuminator button, located above the LCD panel to have the flash test fire repeatedly for a few seconds. The test illuminator function allows the photographer to examine the light and shadows that the flash will make before taking a picture.
5. Connect other SB-80DX flashes via sync cord through the TTL multiple flash terminal, located on the left side of the flash, to have more than one TTL flash in use while shooting. You can also connect a non-TTL flash via sync cord in the sync terminal, located just under the TTL terminal. While using a non-TTL flash, or a slave flash, you must use manual settings to adjust the flash output.
6. Hold down the select button and press the left or right directional buttons to adjust zoom head position. The zoom head's range is 24mm to 105mm. The smaller the number is, the farther the light from the flash will spread outward. If the flash zoom head number is larger, the flash will be more direct and punchy.
7. Adjust the direction of SB-80DX flash firing by pressing the flash head rotating/ tilting lock button located on the left side of the flash. Changing the direction of the flash enables the photographer to bounce light off of a ceiling or wall.
Tags: flash output, flash will, zoom head, adjust flash, before taking, button located