Product Description

i-TTL (intelligent through-the-lens) flash exposure control * four-position tilt flash head (tilts up from horizontal to 60, 75, and 90 degrees) * approximate guide number at ISO 200: 98.4 ft./30 meters (at 18mm zoom head setting) * compatible with select Nikon SLRs using the Creative Lighting System including the D40, D50, D70s, and D200 * uses 2 "AA" batteries (not included) *

Product Details

• Brand: Nikon
• Model: 4806
• Dimensions: 2.42" h x 3.07" w x 3.78" l, .28 pounds

Features

• Compact, lightweight Speedlight unit
• 18mm angle of coverage with Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras
• Bounce capabilities in 4 steps up to 90 degrees; flash shooting distance range from 2 and up to 66 feet
• Approximate guide number of 98.4 feet at ISO 200 (at 18mm zoom head setting)
• Operates on two AA-size (1.5V) batteries; fast 2.5 second recycling time

From the Manufacturer
Nikon announces the Nikon Speedlight SB-400, an intelligent and versatile external flash unit that provides i-TTL flash operation in a super-compact and ultra-lightweight body at an affordable price.

With its powerful guide number of 21, the SB-400 is an ideal flash unit for beginners in digital SLR photography, but it is also useful for hobbyists and professionals looking for a handy i-TTL flash unit offering an effortless bounce flash function.

The SB-400 has been specifically developed to provide photographers with an entry-level external flash unit which is compatible with i-TTL flash operation. When combined with cameras that are compatible with the Nikon Creative Lighting System, the SB-400 is controlled in i-TTL and D40's M (manual) mode.

The SB-400's flash head can be tilted in 4 steps--horizontal, as well as 60, 75, and 90 degrees--and has a flash shooting distance range of between 60cm to 20m (depending on the camera's ISO setting). Slow Sync, Red-eye Reduction and other flash modes can also be set on the camera body, enabling users to enjoy brighter and more natural lighting for better flash pictures.

Customer Reviews

Nice and small but should be for occasional use only
Before I purchased my Nikon D80, I was a Canon-ophile. It took many months of research and thinking before I decided to abandon Canon in favor of Nikon. I am not disappointed with the Nikon D80 nor the Nikkor lenses I bought. I even have the vertical grip that comes in handy. What I can complain about though, is this little flash.

It is true that it is small and looks very cute sitting on top of the camera. The flash tube pivots up with click-stops so that it is easy to get a specific bounce angle. Mine even came with a nicely padded fitted case. The problem I had was that this tiny flash quickly sucks batteries dry.

This flash uses two AA sized batteries. At first I used the rechargeable Nickel-metal-hydride (NiMh) but they didn't last too long--only about 35 flashes (they were new and fully charged). I switched to Alkaline and got about 40 then the recycle time kept getting longer and longer and longer. I supposed if I switched to Lithium batteries I'd get more flashes, but they are too expensive right now.

If you are trying to capture the spontaneity of a party or of little kids being their adorable selves, then this flash will let you down. For the odd snapshot where everyone will stand still until the flash recharges then I suppose it it ok.

I think a better bet would be the SB-600, SB-800 or the new SB-900 for more serious flash work. Both the SB-800 and the SB-900 provide auto-focus assistance that this flash doesn't.

For casual flash photography, this unit works ok. Anything else, save up and buy a better flash. (I know I am.)

Sinple and good
This Nikon flash is almost foolproof. The only function on it is the on/off switch. Everything else is done by the camera, D40 in my case. It adds considerable depth to the on-camera flash, and so is just what I needed. However, it isnt the most powerful one available fron Nikon. It suits the design of the D40 since it can be used as easily as a point and shoot, but takes great photos.

The only flash I need!
I bought the Nikon SB 800 flash for my Nikon D50 after the built in flash stopped working. I quickly realized that it was a wonderful flash, and very powerful, but much too large. I started shopping around for other options, and bought the SB 400 not long after. It is less than half the size of the 800, but just as powerful as far as the flash goes. There are more features and gizmos on the 800, but I found that I never used those anyway. I just wanted a flash that would work! And this does that and still has perks:

-The tilt-up head of the flash is wonderful. You can aim the flash at different angles so that you arent hitting the subject head on. This reduces red eye and harsh shadows.

-It mounts easily and securely, and lights up a whole room without being heavy and in the way.

-It is very quick, you hardly have to wait at all for the flash to recharge after shooting. I rarely even notice a lag.

I would reccomend this flash to anyone!