Plus compensation
Minus compensation
Flash shooting with SB-29s and another unit
Flash shooting with SB-29s only
*
1
The aperture where overexposed pictures may result in TTL auto flash operation if a larger
aperture (smaller f-number) than that is used.
•For example, when shooting a subject at a distance of 0.25m (0.82 ft.) at an ISO sensitivity
of 100, the correct aperture is:
f/stop = 2 (coefficient) / 0.25 (m) (flash-to-subject distance) = 8
f/stop = 6.6 (coefficient) / 0.82 (ft) (flash-to-subject distance) = approx. 8
From the above equation, use an aperture smaller than the f/8 (larger f-number) in the TTL mode.
TTL Auto Flash Mode
TTL
In this mode, the built-in TTL auto flash sensor in cameras so equipped
measures the SB-29s’ illumination that is reflected back from the subject
based on the aperture set on the lens and automatically controls the flash
output to ensure proper exposure. This mode provides simple and effective
flash operation for close-up flash photography. This mode is not available with
Digital SLRs cameras.
Note
In close-up flash photography where exposures are often affected by the ambient
light, it’s a good idea to take additional shots at various exposure settings. (Refer to
“Exposure compensation in close-up flash photography.”)
Set the flash mode selector on the SB-29s to TTL.
•The D-TTL auto flash mode is not possible with the SB-29s.
1
Set your camera correctly. (Refer to your camera’s instruction manual for details.)
•Set your camera’s exposure mode to Aperture-priority auto A or Manual M mode.
Programmed auto P (aperture not selectable) and Shutter-priority auto S modes
are not recommended, because choosing an appropriate shooting distance
range to match the reproduction ratio is difficult.
•Set your camera’s metering system to Matrix Metering, Center-Weighted
Metering or Spot Metering.
•The shutter speed is automatically set to the flash sync speed. (Or you can
intentionally set the shutter speed to one slower than the flash sync speed.)
•Because the SB-29s features the same TTL flash operations as the SB-22 or
SB-22s, refer to them in the flash photography section of your camera’s
instruction manual, if the SB-29s is not listed.
Set the aperture on the lens or camera.
•Determine an appropriate aperture by referring to the “Aperture/reproduction
ratio panel” on the back of the SB-29s controller. (Refer to “Determining a proper
flash shooting distance range.”)
Wait for the SB-29s’ ready-light to come on before taking the picture.
•You can also use the ready-light in the viewfinder of your camera.
•If the ready-light on the SB-29s or in the viewfinder blinks for approx. 3 seconds
after shooting, this indicates the light may have been insufficient for correct
exposure. In this case, use a wider aperture (smaller f-number) and reshoot.
•If the SB-29s’ overexposure warning indicator LED lights up for approx.
4 seconds after shooting, this indicates the picture may have been overexposed.
In this case, use a smaller aperture (larger f-number) and reshoot.
4
3
2
■ Determining a proper flash shooting distance range
Using the “Aperture/reproduction ratio panel” (with the lens in normal position)
Use the “Aperture/reproduction ratio panel” on the back of the SB-29s controller to
determine usable apertures at the desired reproduction ratio. The proper apertures
depend on the ISO sensitivity, lens focal length, and desired reproduction ratio.
Note
The figures on the panel are effective f-numbers. They are not apertures on the lens.
(See “Aperture to set on the lens and effective f-number”.
•The settings and scales on the Aperture/reproduction ratio panel are for use with AF Micro-
Nikkors 60mm f/2.8D, 105mm f/2.8D, and 200mm f/4D IF-ED.
If you use the AF Zoom Micro-Nikkor 70-180mm f/4.5-5.6D ED, determine the appropriate
figures on the panel depending on a focal length set on the lens. Apply this to other lenses.
•For example, at a 1:5 reproduction ratio with an ISO sensitivity of 100 and the AF Micro-Nikkor
60mm lens, the usable apertures are f/4 to f/32.
When an over- or underexposure warning indication appears (with the lens
in reverse position, or when the reproduction ratio is greater than life-size.)
In the above case, the correct exposure cannot be obtained using the “Aperture/
reproduction ratio panel.” Determine the usable aperture by referring to the following
“Maximum aperture.” If the overexposure warning indication appears, use a smaller
aperture (larger f-number) or if the underexposure warning indication appears, use a
larger aperture (smaller f-number) and reshoot.
f/stop (maximum aperture*
1
) = Coefficient / flash-to-subject distance (m/ft)
ISO sensitivity
Coefficient
Checking the lighting effects before shooting
■Modeling illuminator
Using the modeling illuminator, you can check how the subject will be
illuminated and see how the shadows will look before actually taking pictures.
Set the SB-29s and your camera, then focus on the subject.
Wait for the ready-light to come on before pressing the modeling
illuminator button as you look through the viewfinder.
2
1
•The modeling illuminator will not light up unless the
ready-light is on.
•While the modeling illuminator button is pressed, the
modeling illuminator lights up—for a maximum of
approx. 3 seconds (when both modules are fired), if
the flash is completely recycled. Of course, the
duration varies if the flash is not completely recycled.
Manual Flash Mode
M
Use a Manual Flash mode, if your camera or Digital SLR is not compatible
with the TTL auto flash mode. Flash output levels of M (Full), M1/4 and M1/32
can be selected.
M: Flash fires at full output.
M1/4: Flash fires at 1/4 of the full output.
M1/32: Flash fires at 1/32 of the full output.
Set the flash mode selector to M1/4, M1/32 or M.
Adjust your camera.
•Set your camera’s exposure mode to Aperture-priority auto A or Manual M.
•The shutter speed is automatically set to the flash sync speed. (Or you can
intentionally set the shutter speed to one slower than the flash sync speed. For
Nikon New FM2 and FM10 cameras, manually set the shutter speed to the flash
sync shutter speed or slower.)
Set the appropriate aperture on the camera or lens aperture ring.
•At a reproduction ratio of less than 1:10, use this equation to determine the
correct aperture:
f/stop (aperture) = guide number / flash-to-subject distance (m)
At a reproduction ratio of 1:10 or greater, the above equation is not
recommended as it is difficult to obtain the correct aperture.
•With Micro-Nikkor lenses mounted on the camera, refer to the “Aperture/
reproduction ratio panel.”
For example, when shooting at an ISO sensitivity of 100 with the AF Micro-Nikkor
60mm f/2.8D lens, determine an appropriate aperture by referring to the
“Aperture/reproduction ratio panel.”
At a 1:5 reproduction ratio, the effective f-numbers for the correct exposure are
f/32 at Manual (M), f/16 at Manual (M1/4), and f/5.6 at Manual (M1/32).
•When a Nikkor lens with a built-in CPU is mounted on the camera and when you
set the aperture in the camera’s viewfinder or on the LCD panel, the aperture
value appearing on the LCD panel or in camera’s viewfinder is the effective
f-number. Set this value on the camera.
•When a Nikkor lens without a built-in CPU is mounted or no aperture value is
displayed in the viewfinder, calculate the effective f-number using the aperture
set on the lens according to the reproduction ratio, then determine an
appropriate aperture by referring to the “Aperture/ reproduction ratio panel.”
Wait for the SB-29s’ ready-light to come on before taking the picture.
Notes
•In close-up flash photography where exposures are often affected by the ambient
light, it’s a good idea to take additional shots at various aperture settings. (Refer to
“Exposure compensation in close-up flash photography.”)
•With Digital SLRs cameras, check the exposure on the camera’s LCD panel after
shooting. If the subject was not correctly exposed, adjust the aperture and reshoot.
Refer to “Exposure compensation in close-up flash photography.”
4
3
2
1
Reproduction ratios and the “Aperture/reproduction ratio panel”
■Determining the reproduction ratio
For Micro-Nikkor lenses in normal position, read the number engraved on the
lens focus ring. It is usually in the form of 1:n or 1/n. When using Nikon
Bellows Focusing Attachment, refer to its instruction manual.
For other lenses, follow these procedures to determine the reproduction ratio:
Place a ruler in the same plane as the subject, then read the subject’s
length as seen in the viewfinder.
1
Calculate the reproduction ratio by using this equation:
M = 36 / L
where M = Reproduction ratio
36 = Length of the long side of the viewfinder frame (varies depending
on camera in use)
L= Length of the subject as seen in the viewfinder
•The viewfinder frame size is 24 x 36mm for cameras having 100% frame
coverage and 21 x 32mm for cameras with 90% frame coverage.
•In the above example, the viewfinder frame size is 24 x 36mm. Since the
subject appears as approx. 21mm along the long side of the viewfinder frame,
the reproduction ratio (M) is:
M = 36 / 21 = approx. 1.7x.
If you measure the length of the subject by placing a ruler along the short side of
the viewfinder frame, use this equation:
M = 24 / L
Or if the viewfinder frame size is 21 x 32mm, the reproduction ratio (M)
is 32/21 = approx. 1.5x. Likewise, if you measure the subject by placing the ruler
on the short side of the viewfinder frame, the reproduction ratio is determined by
the equation M = 21 / L.
■ Aperture to set on the lens and effective f-number
Effective f-numbers of macro lenses such as Micro-Nikkor lenses vary and the
brightness of images on the film decrease when the reproduction ratio increases. The
relationship between the reproduction ratio and the effective f-number is:
Fe = F (1 + M)
where Fe = Effective f-number (actual lens speed)
F= Aperture to set on the lens
M= Reproduction ratio
•For example, to obtain a 1:1 (life-size) reproduction ratio at an aperture of f/8 set on
the lens, Fe = 8 (1 + 1) = 16. The effective f-number is 16 which is two stops darker.
Effective f-numbers are displayed on the SB-29s’ “Aperture/reproduction ratio
panel.”
To obtain the correct exposure in TTL auto flash operation, proceed as follows:
•The aperture value appearing on the LCD panel or in camera’s viewfinder is the
effective f-number when a Nikkor lens with a built-in CPU is mounted on the camera.
•When a Nikkor lens without a built-in CPU is mounted or no aperture value is
displayed in the viewfinder calculate the effective f-number using the above equation
after setting the aperture on the lens.
2
Exposure compensation in close-up flash photography
In close-up flash photography, it’s recommended to take additional shots with
varying exposures to ensure getting the correct exposure.
Exposure compensation in TTL Auto Flash “TTL” mode
•Make exposure compensation on the camera to match the shooting situation. Refer to
your camera’s instruction manual for details on how to make exposure compensation.
•When shooting a subject containing highly reflective surfaces, use some plus
compensation. When the background is very dark, or the subject is in deep shadow,
use some minus compensation.
•Normally you can compensate exposures within a range of –2 EV to +1 EV.
•When minus compensation is made, the overexposure warning indicator LED may
light up. In this case, set a smaller aperture (larger f-number) on the lens, then make
minus compensation again.
Exposure compensation in Manual “M” mode
•Intentionally change the aperture set on the camera or lens aperture ring.
•When you want an overexposed picture, set a wider aperture (smaller f-number). For
an underexposed picture, use a smaller aperture (larger f-number).
Multiple flash operation
Optional accessories
You can use additional flash units to eliminate harsh shadows cast by the
subject on the background or to create special lighting effects not possible
with a single flash unit.
With the SB-29s, multiple flash shooting—either wireless or using cords—is
possible. In both cases, TTL multiple flash with cameras compatible with the
TTL auto flash mode as well as Manual multiple flash are possible. For details,
refer to your camera, lens, and accessory instruction manuals.
Master flash unit and slave flash unit
Master flash unit: The flash unit mounted on the camera, the camera’s built-in
Speedlight, or the Speedlight connected directly to the camera using a
remote cord.
Slave flash unit: All other flash units that fire in sync with the master flash unit.
Multiple flash operation using a sync or remote cord
•SB-11, SB-14, SB-140 and SB-21B Speedlights cannot be used with Nikon
F-401/N4004 or F-401s/N4004s cameras.
•Use of the SB-50DX and SB-23 as slave flash units using cords is not recommended,
because the standby function cannot be canceled.
•In multiple flash operation, if the electric current in the synchro circuits exceeds a
certain level, you may not be able to take second shot after the first. In this case,
disconnect the master flash unit from the camera. This resets the circuits so you can
resume shooting.
•To prevent the above from happening, take care that the combined total of the
coefficients in the table below for all flash units used together does not exceed 20 at
20 °C (68 °F) or 13 at 40 °C (104 °F).
•Refer to “Optional accessories” for sync or remote cords.
•Read each product’s instruction manual for details on connections.
Wireless multiple flash operation
•Speedlights suitable for use as slave flash units in wireless multiple flash are ones
featuring a wireless slave flash mode or those mounted on the optional Wireless
Slave Flash Controller SU-4.
•In A (auto) mode, the light sensor on Speedlights so equipped or the one on the SU-4
detects the light from the master flash. Then, the slave flash unit or units start and
stop firing in sync with the master Speedlight to produce the correct overall
exposure. In M (manual) mode, the slave flash unit or units only start firing in sync
with the master flash unit.
•These Nikon Speedlights are usable with the SU-4:
SB-29s, SB-29, SB-28, SB-28DX, SB-27, SB-26, SB-25, SB-24, SB-23, SB-22s, SB-22,
SB-20, SB-18, SB-16B, SB-15
Read the SU-4’s instruction manual for more details.
■TTL multiple flash operation
Connect the master flash unit to the camera directly. Or use the TTL
Remote Cord SC-17/SC-24 instead.
Connect the master flash unit to the slave flash unit(s).
•Use one or more TTL Remote Cords SC-18/SC-19 for direct connection or use
these cords in combination with the TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10.
•In wireless multiple flash operation, position the slave flash unit and the SU-4
toward the master flash unit, so that light from the master flash unit can reach the
light sensor windows.
Set each flash unit by considering its direction and distance.
•Please note that the brightness of flash illumination is inversely proportional to
the square of the distance between the flash unit and the subject when the same
Speedlight models are used for both the master and slave flash units.
For example, if the flash-to-subject distance is a reference unit of 1, the
brightness will be one-half that when the subject is 1.4 times away, and one-
quarter when the subject is twice as far away.
Turn on all flash units and make sure their standby functions are not activated.
Set the flash mode on all flash units to TTL.
•Set the mode button to A (auto) when using a slave flash unit featuring an auto
wireless slave flash mode.
Follow the same procedures as in normal TTL Auto Flash “TTL” mode.
Note
TTL multiple flash operation is not possible with Nikon New FM2, FM10, FE10 and
D1-Series, D100 cameras. In this case, perform manual multiple flash operation using
the TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 or Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4.
■Manual multiple flash operation
Attach the SB-29s to the camera’s accessory shoe.
Connect the SB-29s to the sync flash terminal of the slave flash unit(s).
•Use the same cords as used for TTL multiple flash operation, or Sync Cords
SC-11 or SC-15.
•In wireless flash shooting in M (manual) mode, directing the slave flash unit and
the SU-4 toward the master flash unit is not always necessary because the
sensitivity of the light sensors increases in the M mode.
Set each flash unit by considering its direction and distance.
(See the note in item 3 above regarding the relationship between brightens of flash
illumination and distance.)
Turn on all flash units and make sure their standby functions are not
activated.
Set the flash mode of all the flash units to Manual M.
•Set the mode button to M (manual) when using a slave flash unit featuring a
manual wireless slave flash mode.
Follow the same procedures as in normal Manual flash “M” mode.
6
5
4
3
2
1
6
5
4
3
2
1
Speedlight Coefficient
SB-29s, SB-80DX, SB-50DX, SB-30, SB-29, SB-28, SB-28DX, SB-27,
SB-26, SB-25, SB-24, SB-22s, SB-14, SB-11, SB-140
1
SB-23, SB-21, SB-17, SB-16, SB-15 4
SB-22 6
SB-20 9
Autofocus operation in dim light
■AF assist illuminator lamp
When the light is too dim for normal autofocus operation, the SB-29s’ AF
assist illuminator lamp can be used to illuminate dark subjects.
Press the AF assist illuminator lamp button to turn the lamp on.
1
Press the AF assist illuminator lamp button again to turn the lamp off.
•The AF assist illuminator lamp turns off automatically when the SB-29s is fired. It
also turns off after approx. 1 min. if the SB-29s is not touched.
Note
If the shooting distance is 150mm or less, light from the AF assist illumination may
appear in the final shot and affect the camera’s exposure. Therefore, be sure to turn
off the illuminator lamp before shooting.
2
Sync Cord SC-11 and SC-15
Sync Cords SC-11 and SC-15 are handy when you want to use the SB-29s off-camera. The SC-11 is approx.
25 cm (9.8 in.) long and the SC-15 is approx. 1m (3.2 ft) long. Use Sync Terminal Adapter AS-15 when
connecting the SB-29s to cameras not having a sync flash terminal.
TTL Remote Cord SC-17 and SC-24
TTL Remote Cords SC-17/SC-24 provide TTL Auto Flash operation when the SB-29s is used off-camera. It
comes with one tripod socket and two TTL multiple flash terminals. Both the SC-17 and SC-24 are approx.
1.5m (4.9 ft) long.
TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18 and SC-19
Multi-Flash Sync Cords SC-18/SC-19 are useful for connecting the SB-29s to the multiple flash terminal of the
SC-17 (SC-24) or AS-10 for TTL multiple flash operation. The SC-18 is approx. 1.5 m (4.9 ft) long, and the
SC-19 is approx. 3 m (9.8 ft) long.
TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10
Use Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 when connecting more than three flash units together for TTL multiple flash
operation, or if the slave flash units are not equipped with multiple flash terminals. The AS-10 comes with one
tripod socket and three TTL multiple flash terminals.
Sync Terminal Adapter AS-15
The Sync Terminal Adapter AS-15 is necessary when using Sync Cords SC-11/SC-15 to connect the flash unit
to cameras not having a sync terminal.
Wireless Slave Flash Controller SU-4
Useful for multiple flash photography, the SU-4’s light sensor not only triggers the slave unit to fire in sync with
the master unit, but controls the flash duration of the slave unit in sync with the master unit.
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-29s
and SB-28 featuring ISO-type mounting foot (not designed for F3).
Macro Adapter Ring BR-2A
Used for attaching the SB-29s to lenses with a 52mm filter attachment size in the reverse position.
Auto Adapter Ring BR-5
Used with the BR-2A for attaching the SB-29s to lenses with a 52mm filter attachment size in the reverse
position.
Auto Adapter Ring BR-6
Used for attaching the SB-29s to lenses in the reverse position. Automatic diaphragm operation is possible if
the BR-6 is used with Double Release AR-10 or Double Cable Releases AR-7/AR-4.
Adapter Ring UR-3
Dedicated adapter ring for the AF Micro-Nikkor 60mm lens providing AF flash operation with the main unit
mounted.
Specifications
Warning indicator Cause Reference/remedy
Ready-light does not come on.
•Power switch is turned OFF.
•Batteries are not installed correctly.
•Battery power is weak.
•Standby function is in operation. Power is
automatically turned off.
•Contacts in the battery chamber or battery
electrodes are corroded.
“Turning the SB-29s on and off”
“Installing the batteries”
“Replacing or recharging the batteries”
“Standby function”
Clean the contacts or electrodes.
Ready-light blinks for approx.
3 sec. after shooting.
Subject may have been underexposed. Procedure 4 in “TTL Auto Flash TTL
mode”
Overexposure warning indicator
LED lights up for approx.
4 sec. after shooting.
Picture may have been overexposed. Procedure 4 in “TTL Auto Flash TTL
mode”
Ready-light takes longer to
light up.
•Batteries are nearly exhausted.
•Lithium batteries become hot by repeated use
which activates their safety circuit, cutting off
power.
“Replacing or recharging the batteries”
Allow longer recycling time between
flashes or wait until the batteries cool off.
Shutter cannot be released
even when the ready-light
lights up.
Flash mode selector is set to M1/32, M1/4 or
M, and camera’s exposure mode is set to
Programmed auto or Shutter-priority auto mode.
“Manual Flash M mode”
Tips on Speedlight care
Troubleshooting
•Use a blower brush to remove dirt and dust from the SB-29s and clean it with a soft, clean cloth. Never use
commercial cleaners containing thinner or benzene as they could damage its plastic parts.
•When storing the SB-29s for two weeks or longer, remove the batteries to prevent battery leakage. Also once a
month, insert fresh batteries and fire the unit several times to reform its capacitor and keep the SB-29s in top
working order. Make sure to turn the power off before removing the batteries.
•Keep the SB-29s away from chemicals such as camphor or naphthalene. Also avoid exposing it to magnetic
waves from TVs or radios.
•Never store the SB-29s in the truck or glove compartment of a vehicle during the summer. Also, do not place
it in front of a heater.
Notes on Batteries
•Battery power tends to weaken as the temperature drops. At low temperatures, the number of flashes decrease
and recycling time is longer. NiCd, Ni-MH and lithium batteries feature greater efficiency at low temperatures,
usable as low as –20°C (–4°F). Alkaline-manganese and zinc-carbon batteries are not recommended as their
performance become noticeably degraded at –10°C (14°F) for alkaline-manganese and 0°C (32°F) for zinc-
carbon batteries.
Please note that battery performance may differ from brand to brand, due to modifications or improvements in
performance.
Using lithium batteries (rated voltage: 1.5V)
•Lithium batteries incorporate internal safety switches. When they become hot, their safety circuits are
activated, cutting off power. Battery power will recover if you stop using them and allow them to return to
normal temperatures.
Using rechargeable NiCd and Ni-MH batteries
•Overcharging and excessive use may shorten battery life. Always make certain to turn the SB-29s off when not
in use.
•Because flash consumes a large amount of battery power, rechargeable batteries may not operate properly
before reaching the end of their stated life-span or the number of charging/discharging as specified by the
battery manufacturer.
Electronic construction
Automatic silicon-controlled rectifier and series circuitry.
Power source
Four AA-type zinc-carbon (1.5V), alkaline-manganese (1.5V), lithium (1.5V), NiCd (rechargeable)
(1.2V) or Ni-MH (rechargeable) (1.2V) penlight batteries.
Guide number (at ISO sensitivity of 100, m/ft.)
11/36 for both flash modules (12/39 for single module) at full flash output.
5.5/18 for both flash modules (6/20 for single module) at M1/4 flash output.
1.9/6.2 for both flash modules (2.1/6.9 for single module) at M1/32 flash output.
Angle of coverage
Covers picture angle of 20mm lens (flash modules set horizontally) and 24mm lens (flash
modules set vertically) at a distance of 1m (3.3 ft.) with 35mm-film cameras
Power switch
•Three positions are provided: OFF, ON and STBY (standby).
•At ON and STBY positions: the SB-29s is turned on.
•At STBY position: the SB-29s automatically turns itself off after approx. 80 seconds to conserve
battery power, if the flash is not used.
Number of flashes and recycling times
Batteries*
1
Min. recycling time (approx.)*
2
No. of flashes (approx.)*
3
AA-type zinc-carbon 10 sec. 50
AA-type alkaline-manganese 3 sec. 300
AA-type NiCd (700mA) 2 sec. 120
AA-type Ni-MH 2 sec. 170
AA-type lithium (1.5V) 4 sec. 350
*
1
With fresh batteries
*
2
Duration until the ready-light comes on after firing at full manual output.
*
3
Total number of flashes when fired at full manual output with an interval of 30 seconds
between flashes.
•Number of flashes are greater in TTL Auto Flash, M1/4, and M1/32 flash output mode.
Flash mode selector
TTL, M, M1/4, or M1/32 mode selectable
Ready-light
•Lights up when SB-29s is recycled and ready to fire.
•Blinks for 3 seconds when flash fires at its maximum output, indicating light may have been
insufficient (in TTL mode).
Overexposure warning indicator LED
Lights up for approx. 4 sec. after shooting to indicate that the picture may have been
overexposed.
Built-in light reducer
Sets the ratio of the brightness of the right flash module to the left one (or vice versa) to 1:4.
FLASH button
•Performs test firing for correct exposure determination.
•Can turn the SB-29s on again after the unit enters standby mode.
Flash duration (approx.)
At full flash output: 1/1400 sec. with both flash modules (1/1250 sec. with single flash module)
At 1/4 flash output: 1/5500 sec. with both flash modules (1/3300 sec. with single flash module)
At 1/32 flash output: 1/25000 sec. with both flash modules (1/18000 sec. with single flash module)
Modeling illuminator
Lights up for approx. 3 sec. (when both modules are fired), if flash is completely recycled.
Repeat firing at approx. 40 Hz.
Other features
Sync/multiple flash terminal provided
Dimensions (W x H x D)
Main unit: Approx. 119 x 133 x 28.5 mm (4.7 x 5.2 x 1.1 in.)
Controller: Approx. 69 x 106.5 x 88.5 mm (2.7 x 4.2 x 3.5 in.)
Weight
Approx. 410g (14.5 oz.) without batteries
Accessories supplied
3 Adapter Rings (ø52mm, ø62mm, ø72mm), Hard Case SS-29
All performance data is for operation at normal temperatures (20˚C/68˚F)
Specifications and design are subject to change without notice.
For safe handling of the Speedlight
Warnings
•Do not attempt to disassemble, repair, or modify the flash unit yourself, as it houses
high-voltage circuitry that can cause an electric shock. Also, these action may cause
the unit to malfunction, resulting in bodily injure to yourself.
•If the flash unit is dropped and damaged, do not touch any exposed interior metal
parts, as it houses high-voltage circuitry that can cause an electric shock. Remove
the batteries and take the Speedlight to your local Nikon dealer for repair.
•If you detect heat, smoke, or the smell of burning coming from the Speedlight, stop
operation immediately and turn the flash unit off. Let the flash unit cool off before
removing the batteries. Then take the flash unit to your local Nikon dealer for repair.
•The SB-29s should not be exposed to rain or saltwater, as this may result in an
electric shock or cause the unit to catch on fire. Also never touch the flash unit with
wet hands.
•Do not operate the flash unit in an environment containing a combustible gas, as this
may cause the unit to catch on fire or result in an explosion.
•Keep batteries out of the reach of children. If a battery is accidentally swallowed, call
a doctor immediately.
•When replacing batteries, replace all four at the same time. Also, do not mix battery
types or brands or use old with new batteries. Otherwise, the batteries may catch on
fire or explode, due to the possible leakage of corrosive liquids.
•In the event that corrosive liquids do seep from the batteries, avoid touching the
liquids. Certain types of batteries contain strong alkaline liquids which can cause
chemical burns. If the alkaline liquids stick to your skin or clothes, wash immediately
with running water.
•Batteries shall not be exposed to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.
•Dry batteries shall not be subjected to charging.
Caution
•Do not fire the flash directly into a person’s eyes at close range as this may cause
temporary blindness.
•Keep the SB-29s out of the reach of children. This will prevent them from swallowing
accessories, batteries, or receiving an electric shock.
•Do not throw used batteries into a fire. Do not short circuit, disassemble, or heat
batteries; this may cause them to explode or catch on fire.
•Always follow the warning instructions printed on batteries to prevent them from
becoming hot, leaking corrosive liquids, catching on fire, or exploding.
•When recharging NiCd or Ni-MH batteries, be sure to use the battery charger
specified by the battery maker and read the instructions thoroughly. Do not recharge
NiCd or Ni-MH batteries with their terminals reversed in the charger or before the
batteries have cooled off sufficiently, as this may cause them to leak corrosive
liquids, become hot, catch on fire, or explode.
•Non-rechargeable batteries such as zinc-carbon, alkaline-manganese and lithium
batteries should never be charged in a battery charger as they may become hot,
catch on fire, explode or leak corrosive liquids.
•Always use the batteries specified in this instruction manual. Using other batteries
may cause them to become hot or catch on fire.
Usable apertures
ISO sensitivity
Effective f-number
(aperture)
Reproduction ratio
(1:5 represents 1/5x.)
Focal length of lens in use
Aperture/reproduction ratio panel
100 or below 125 – 400 500 or more
2/6.6 4/13 5.6/18
The subject's length is 21mm
in this example.
•Main unit attached to the lens
•Flash modules set horizontally with
both modules fired
•Subjects on a milky-white acrylic
panel illuminated from the rear using
a second flash unit.
•Main unit attached to the
controller
•Flash modules set vertically with
the upper module fired
(m/ft)
The film speed for film-based
cameras and the sensitivity for
Digital SLRs cameras are
generally referred to as ISO
sensitivity.
