Nikon SB-800 Speedlight

The Nikon SB-800 Speedlight is a versatile external flash designed for Nikon DSLR and compatible film SLR cameras. Featuring Nikon’s i-TTL flash control system, a powerful flash output, and extensive wireless lighting capabilities, the SB-800 is well suited for portraits, weddings, events, photojournalism, and general flash photography. Its combination of adjustable flash output, flexible positioning, and advanced exposure controls makes it a practical option for photographers seeking greater control over their lighting.

The SB-800 features a guide number of approximately 125 feet (38 meters) at ISO 100 and the 35mm zoom position, providing sufficient output for a variety of indoor and outdoor lighting situations. Its automatic zoom head adjusts flash coverage to accommodate focal lengths from 24mm to 105mm, while the built-in wide-angle diffuser extends coverage to approximately 14mm. This flexibility allows photographers to illuminate subjects effectively when working with different lenses and shooting distances.

Equipped with Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS), the SB-800 supports i-TTL flash metering for accurate and consistent exposure with compatible Nikon cameras. The flash also offers Auto Aperture, Non-TTL Auto, Distance-Priority Manual, and Manual flash modes, providing flexibility for photographers who prefer automatic exposure control or precise manual adjustments.

The SB-800 incorporates a rotating and tilting flash head, allowing photographers to direct light toward ceilings, walls, and other reflective surfaces for softer, more natural-looking illumination. The flash head tilts upward to 90 degrees and downward to 7 degrees, while horizontal rotation provides additional flexibility for bounce lighting in both horizontal and vertical shooting orientations.

Wireless lighting capabilities are a key feature of the SB-800. Through Nikon’s Advanced Wireless Lighting system, the flash can operate as either a wireless commander or remote unit with compatible Nikon cameras and Speedlights. This allows photographers to create multiple-light setups, adjust lighting ratios, and control off-camera flashes for portraits, studio photography, and other creative applications.

The SB-800 also features a built-in AF-assist illuminator to support autofocus operation in low-light environments. Additional functions include flash exposure compensation, flash exposure bracketing, modeling illumination, and repeating flash operation. These controls provide photographers with greater flexibility when balancing flash output with ambient lighting.

Powered by four AA batteries, the SB-800 offers convenient operation using readily available battery types. Its compact design makes it suitable for both on-camera and off-camera lighting setups, while the rear LCD panel and dedicated control buttons provide access to flash settings and operating modes.

Designed primarily for Nikon camera systems, the SB-800 is compatible with a wide selection of Nikon DSLRs and certain film SLR cameras. Available flash functions depend on the camera model and its supported metering system. Its combination of automatic and manual controls makes it a versatile lighting accessory for photographers working with compatible Nikon equipment.

The Nikon SB-800 Speedlight combines powerful flash output, adjustable bounce lighting, wireless flash control, and extensive exposure settings, making it a capable option for photographers seeking greater flexibility in their lighting setups.

– Included Accessories:
The built-in bounce card is missing, as well as the wide angle panel.

– Condition Note:
The flash exhibits visible cosmetic wear, including scuffs and surface marks throughout the exterior housing, consistent with previous use.