Nikon

•
ii

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

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 ~=======CONTENTS========~
FOREWORO ............. . . .... . 3 SYNCHRO-SUNLIGHT FILL-IN
NOMENCLATURE.. ..... 4-6 FLASH PHOTOGRAPHy ...... ....... .......... . .. 36-38
BASIC OPERATION . 7-13 In TTL Mode ............ ....... . . ....... 37
Installing Batteries .. .. .. .. ...... .... . .. ...... . 7 In A Mode .. .. ...... 37
Attaching Flash Unit to Camera Accessory Shoe ...... 8 In M Mode . ... 38
Adjusting Flash Head. . . ....... 9 DIFFUSING THE LIGHT . . .. 39-41
Programmed TTL Auto Flash Shooting Bounce Flash Photography Procedure ........... 40-41
(with Nikon F-5011N2020, F-4011N4004 or Using A Diffuser ...................................... . 41
F-3011N2000) . . ......... 10-11 SYNCHRONIZATION WITH MOTOR-DRIVEN
Flash Shooting .. .... .. ........ .......... .. .... ... 12-13 CAMERA .. . ... .. ... ........ 42
AUTOFOCUS FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY MULTIPLE FLASH EXPOSURES ..... . . ... .. . 42
(with Nikon F-501/N2020 or F-401/N4004) .... 14-16 MULTIPLE FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY . . ... 43-46
SETTING CAMERA SHUTTER SPEED .......... ..... .. 17 TTL Multiple Flash Photography ........... .. . . 43-45
DETERMINING APERTURE ......................... 18-32 Manual Multiple Flash Photography .................. 46
TTL Mode AVOIDING "RED EYE" .. . ............ .......... . 46
(for TTL Automatic Flash Exposure Controil .... 18-22 CLOSE-UP FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY IN TTL MODE .... 47
A Mode (for Non-TTL Automatic Flash TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHT CARE ..... .......... ....... . 48-49
Exposure Control) ................ ............ .. . 23-27 ABOUT BATTERIES . ... . ... ........ .......... 50
M Mode (for Manual Flash Exposure Controil . . 28-31 ACCESSORIES ............... ... ..... . .. 51- 52
Guide Number ..... ................................... 32 Sync Cords SC-11 and SC-15 ....... 51
SETTING POWER SWITCH ............. .... . 33 TTL Remote Cord SC-17 .............................. 51
STBY (STANDBY) Position ........ .. ........ ...... ... 33 TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10 . . ................ 51
ON Position ................ ........ .. ..... ... 33 TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cords SC-18 and SC-19 . .. 52
OFF Position . .. ....... 33 Flash Unit Couplers AS -4 and AS-7 . . ......... 52
READY-LIGHT INDiCATIONS ......... .... .. .... ... 34-35 DC Unit SD-7 . . 52
Ready-Light Warning Functions . . . 35 SPECIFICATIONS .... 53-55

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 Nikon
Fur Besitzer einer Nikon F4/F4s und F·801 Pour les utilisateurs des appareils
Das SB-20 ermbglicht matrix-gesteuerten Aufhellblitz und Aufhellblitz Nikon F4/F4s, F·801/N8008*
mit mittenbetonter Messung zusatzlich zur normalen TTL-Blitz-
Le flash SB-20 a mise au point automatique Nikon permet d'effectuer
automatik und Blitzautomatik ohne TTL. Matrix-gesteuerter Aufhellblitz
les prises en mesure matricielle et centree en plus des contr61es de
erzeugt eine ausgewogene Kombination von Umgebungslicht und
I'exposition avec flash automatique TTL et non TTL. Le flash en
Blitzbeleuchtung, die naturl ich wirkt. Details werden besser
mesure matricielle permet de creer un effet naturel et esthetique en
herausgestellt-ohne daB dadurch die korrekte Belichtung fUr den
remplissant les ombres marquees et en mettant en valeur les details
Hintergrund verlorengeht. du sujet-sans perdre I'exposition correcte de I'arriere-plan
Fur nahere Einzelheiten lesen Sie bitte auch die Bedienungsanleitung Pour les details , lisez attentivement Ie mode d'emploi du SB-20 et celui
zu Ih rer Kamera. de I'appareil.
Die mbglichen Blitzbetriebsarten fUr die einzelnen Kombinationen von Referez-vous aux tableaux ci-apres pour les modes de flash utilisables
Kamera und SB-20 entnehmen Sie bitte der Tabelle weiter unten. pour chaque combinaison apparei I/SB-20.
F4/F4s+SB-20 * La Nikon NSOOS est vendue exclusivement aux Etats-Unis.

6-fach-VergrbBerungssucher
DW-21/Lichtschachtsucher
Sucher Mult i-MeB-Sucher DP-20 AE-Sportsucher DA-20
DW-20
Viseu r Viseu r multi-mesure DP-20 Viseur action AE DA-20
Amplificateur 6X DW-211
"-tOl8 Viseu r de poitrine DW-20
"-too: s.hi'~ 8OlI!(::ht
Ol%Ol0 MoC/Ol C/~ngS,"rt
Objekt ive 00ls OlxPOSlti P P P
&rOl on S A M _S A M S A M
Objectifs PH PH PH

Matrix @ @ @ f:, - - - - - - - -
Matriciel

AF Nikkore/AI-P-Nikkore Mittenbetont
0 0 0 f:, 0 0 0 f:, - - - -
AF Nikkor/Nikkor AI-P Centree

Spot f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:,
Spot

Matrix @
AF-Telekonve rterl
@* @* f:, - - - - - - - -
Matric iel
AF-Nikkore fUr Nikon F3AFI
AI-N ikkore (inkl AI-S) Mittenbetont
0 * 0 * 0 f:, 0 * 0 * 0 f:, - - - -
AF Convert isseurl Centree
AF Nikkor pour F3A FI
Nikko r AI (et AI-S) Spot f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:,
Spot

Mat rix f:, f:, f:, f:, - - - - - - - -

Matriciel

Sonstige Objektive Mittenbetont f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, - - - -
Au tres objectifs Cent ree

Spot f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:, f:,
Spot

@ Matrix-gesteuerter Aufhellblitz @ Dosage auto flashllumiere ambiante par mesure matricielle

o Aufhellblitz mit mittenbetonter Messung o Attenuation des ombres par flash en mesure centree
f:, Konventionelle TTL-Blitzfotografi e Flash standard TTL
f:,
* Das Blitzen erfolgt automatisch in Betriebsart A * Le mode d'exposition passe automatiquements sur "A"
Die Blende manuell wahlen. Selectionnez manuellement I'ouverture.
• Bei Verwendung der Sucher DW-20 und DW-21 ist das TTL- • La carte de telecommande TTL SC-24 est necessaire lorsque I'on
Verbindungskabel SC-24 erforderlich. utilise Ie DW-20 ou DW-21
F-BOllNBOOB+SB-20 @ Matrix-gesteuerter Aufhellblitz
o Aufhellblitz mi t miltenbetonter Messung
~~~1?:~:~
PD
Mode d'exposit ion Konventionelle TTL-Blitzfotografie
f:,
P S A M
Objektive MeBsystem
PH * Das Blitzen erfolgt automatisch in Betriebsart A Die Blende
Objectifs Mode de mesure manuell wahlen.
AF-Nikkorel Mat rix @ @ @ f:,
• Dazu gehbren AF-Telekonverter, AI-Nikkore (einschlieBlich AI-S),
AI-P-Ni kkore Mat riciel das Balgengerat PB-6, Automatik-Zwischenringe usw.
AF Nikkorl Mitte nbetont @ Dosage auto flashllumiere ambiante par mesure matricielle
Ni kkor AI-P 0 0 0 f:,
Centree o Attenuation des ombres par flash en mesure centree
Flash standard TTL
f:,
Matrix
Matriciel
0 * 0 * O' f:, * Le mode d'exposition passe automatiquement sur "A"
Sonstige Objektive o Selectionnez manuellement I'ouvertu re.
Autres objectifs o Mittenbetont • Comprend les convertisseurs AF, les objectifs Nikkor de type AI (y
Centree
0 * O' 0 f:,
compris AI-S), Ie soufflet PB-6 , les bagues-rallonge automatique, etc.

Zur Beachtung: Notes:

1. Bei Verwendung der AF-Illuminator-LED des SB-20 mit einem AF- 1. Lorsque I'on utilise I'illuminateur d'assistance AF du SB-20 avec des
Nikkor-Objektiv laBt sich mit Brennweiten von 25 bis 105mm objectifs AF Nikkor, la distance focale va de 24 a 105mm. Cette
arbeiten. Dieser Bereich verschiebt sich bei Verwendung des AF- a
plage passe 15-5Smm si I'on utilise un Tel econvertisseu r AF
Telekonverters TC-16A nach 15 bis 5Smm. Der Fokussierbereich a
TC-1 6A La plage de mise au point est d'environ S metres (avec Ie
liegt bei etwa 1 bis S Metern (mit AF-Nikkor 50mm f/l ,S, bei Nikkor AF de 50mm f/l,S a temperatures normales, pour un sujet
Normaltemperaturen, fUr ein normales Aufnahmeobjekt mit 35% standard et 35 % de reflectance.
Reflex ionsg rad). 2. Pour les prises de vue en flash par reflexion, reglez Ie mode
2. Fur indirektes Blitzen die Kamera auf Bel ichtungsbetriebsart A oder d'exposition de l'appareiLsur A ou M, et selectionner une des
M einstellen und eine der grbBeren Blenden wahlen. ouvertures les plus larges.
3. Bei manueller Blitzkontrolle die Kamera auf Belichtungsbetriebsart 3. Lorsque Ie SB-20 est utilise avec Ie contr61e de I'exposition en fl ash
A oder M einstellen und die Blende von Hand wah len. manuel, reg ler Ie mode d'exposition de I'appareil su r A ou M et
select ionner manuellement I'ouverture de I'objectif.
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 Nikon
For Nikon F4/F4s, F-801/N8008* Para los usuarios de las camaras F4/F4s,
camera users F-801/N8008*
The Nikon Autofocus Speedlight SB-20 makes it possible to perform EI Speedlight de autoenfoque SB-20 de Nikon Ie permite efectuar flash
Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash and Center-Weighted Fill-Flash in addition de relleno equilibrado par matriz y flash de relleno equ ilibrado al
to standard TTL Automatic Flash Exposure Control and Non-TTL ' centro ademas del control de exposici6n de flash automatico TTL
Automatic Flash Exposure Control. Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash creates estandar y el control de exposici6n de flash automatico no TTL. EI
a pleasing, natural effect by fil ling in harsh shadows and bringing out fl ash de relleno equilibrado por matriz crea un efecto placentero y
subject detail-without losing the correct background exposure. natural Ilenando las sombras bruscas y resaltando los detalles del
For detai ls, be sure to read the SB-20 instruction manual and you r sujeto - y sin perder la correcta exposici6n del fondo.
camera instruction manual. Para los detalles, asegurese de leer el manua l de instrucciones del
Refer to the tables below for usable flash modes in each cameral SB-20 y el manual de instrucciones de su camara.
SB-20 combination . Refierase a las tablas que se indican a continuaci6n para los modos
'The Nikon N8008 is sold exclusively in the U.S.A de flash utilizables en cada combinac i6n de camara/SB-20.
' La Nikon N800S se vende exciusivament en Estados Unidos de
F4/F4s+SB·20 America.
Waist-Level Finder DW-20/6X
Multi-Meter Finder DP-20 High-Magnification Finder DW-2 1
Viewfi nde r AE Action Finder DA-20
Telemetro del fechador multiple Visor de pantalla en la parte
Visor Viso r de acci6n AE DA-20
DP-20 supe rior DW-20lVisor de alta
.:/"''''1",1':
IS/. I/}g £xPos ampliaci6n 6X DW-21
ur
"'0q 0; sYSI", MOdo de'" fIlOd",
Lenses "'0",0 eXPOSiCi ' P P P
C';c" on S A M S A M S A M
Objetivos IOn PH PH PH

Matrix @
Por mat riz
@ @ t; - - - - - - - -
AF Nikkor lensesl
AI-P-type Nikkor lenses Center -Weighted
Calculado para el centro
0 0 0 t; 0 0 0 t; - - - -
Objet ivos Nikkor AFI
Objetivos Nikkor tipo AI-P
Spot t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t;
Puntual

AF Teleconverter/AF Nikkor Mat rix

lenses for Niko n F3AFI Por matriz
@* @* @ t; - - - - - - - -
AI -type Nikkor lenses
(inc luding AI-S) Center-Weighted
Calculado para el centro
O· O' 0 t; 0 * 0 * 0 t; - - - -
Teleconvertidor AF/Objeti-
vos Nikkor AF para Nikon
F3AF/Objetivos Nikkor Spot t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t;
tipo AI (incluido al AI-S) Puntual

Matrix t; t; t; t; - - - - - - - -
Por matriz

Other lenses Center-Weighted t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; - - - -

Otros objetivos Calc ulado para el centro

Spot t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t; t;
Puntua l

@ Matrix Balanced Fi ll-Fl ash @ Flash de iluminacion equil ibrada por matriz
o Center-Weig hted Fill-Flash o Flash de ilum inacion equi librada al centro
/::, Standard TTL flash /::, Flash estandar TTL
* Exposure mode automatically shifts to A. * EI modo de exposicion cambia automaticamente a A.
Select aperture manually. Seleccione la apertura manualmente.
• TTL Remote Cord SC-24 is requ ired when using DW-20 or DW-21. • AI usar el DW-20 0 DW-21 se require del cordon remote TTL
SC-24 .
F·SOllNSOOS+SB·20
@ Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash

~i~~
Modo de exposici6n Po
P S A M
o Center-Weighted Fill-Flash
Lenses Metering system /::, Standard TTL flash
PH
Objetivos Sistema de medici6n * Exposure mode automatica lly shifts to A. Select aperture manually.
AF Nikkor lenses/A I-P- Matrix • Includes AF Teleconverters, AI -type Nikkor lenses (including AI-S) ,
@ @ @ t;
type Nikkor lenses Por matriz Bellows Focusing Attachment PB-6, Auto Extension Rings, etc.
Obj etivos Nikkor AFI
Center-Weighted @ Fl ash de iluminacion equilibrada por matri z
Obj et ivos Nikkor tipo
AI-P Ca lculado para el centro
0 0 0 t;
o Flash de il uminacion equ ilibrada al centro
/::, Flash estandar TTL
Matrix
0 * O' 0 * t; * EI modo de exposicion cambia autom ati camente a A. Seleccione la
Othe r lenses · Por mat riz apertura manualmente.
Otros objeti vos· Center-Weighted
• Incluye teleconvertidores AF, lentes Nikkor de tipo AI (incluyendo
Ca lcu lado pa ra el centro
0 * O' 0 t; AI-S) , fuelle de enfoque PB-6, anillos de extension automatica , etc.

Notes: Notas:
1. When using the SB-20's AF illuminator with AF Nikkor lenses, the 1. AI usar el iluminador AF de la SB-20 con los lentes Nikkor AF, la
foca l length is from 24 to 105mm. Th is range shifts to 15 to 5Smm distancia focal es de 24 a 105mm . Este rango cambia de 15 a
when using AF Teleconverter TC-16A. The focusing range is approx. 5Smm cuando se usa el Convertidor AF TC-16A. EI rango de
1 to S meters (with AF Nikkar 50mm fitS at normal temperatures, enfoque es de aproximadamente 1 a 8 metros (Con AF de Nikkor
for a standard subject with 35% reflectance). de 50mm f/1,S a temperaturas normales, para un sujeto estandar
2. Far bounce flash photography, set the camera's exposu re mode to con un 35% de reflectancia).
A or M and select one of the larger apertures. 2. Para fotografia de flash de saito, ajuste el modo de exposicion de
3. Wh en the SB-20 is used in Manual Flash Exposure Control, set the la camara en A 0 M Y seleccione una de las aperturas mayares
camera's exposure mode to A or M and manually select lens aperture. 3. Cu ando el SB-20 se utiliza para control de exposicion de flash
manual , ajuste el modo de exposicion de la camara a A 0 M y
seleccione manualmente la apertura del diafragma,
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,,;:===FOREWORDI==~ For Nikon F·401/N4004 camera users
Thank you for purchasing the Nikon Auto- Read the following instructions carefully when using the
focus Speed light S8-20. We hope the S8-20 S8-20 with F-401/N4004 camera.
1. Nikon F-401/N4004 camera is designed for use with
will make photography a much bigger part
AF Nikkor lenses, except AF-Nikkor 80mm fl2.8,
of your life. Get to know your S8-20, but
before using it, be sure to read both your 200mm f/3.5 IF-ED and Autofocus Converter TC·161
camera instruction manual and this man- TC-16A.
ual. Nikon cannot be held responsible for For most photos in this manual, aperture is set by
malfunctions resulting from use of the rotating the lens aperture ring. With the F-401/N4004,
however, aperture is set using camera's aperture dial.
S8-20 other than as specified in this man-
Do not forget to set and lock the lens at its smallest
ual, or from use of the S8-20 with a camera
aperture.
made by a manufacturer other than Nikon.
For limited use of non·AF Nikkor lenses, see the
F-401/N4004 instruction manual.
2. Most of the explanations in this manual dealing with
Programmed TTL Auto Flash, TTL Auto Flash, etc.,
apply to shooting dark subjects. However, by setting
the F-401/N4004 to program, aperture-priority or
shutter-priority auto exposure mode, with the S8-20
set to TTL, automatic balanced fill-flash is possible in
situations where fill-flash is effective, even with a
bright subject. For details, see the F-401/N4004 in·
struction manual. (In manual exposure mode, ordi·
nary TTL fill-flash is possible.)

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 NOMENCLATURE
Flash head

Bounce a scale

ring
W (wide) for lenses
28mm or longer

N (normal) for
lenses 35mm or
Bounce angle set knob longer
Rotates from - 7' to 90°.
For bounce flash shooti ng,
see 40. (telephoto) for
lenses 85mm or
longer
Ba cover index

Autolocus assist illuminator LED Light sensor lor non-TTL auto

See pages 14 to 16. Ilash nn,,,,.ti'ln

loot lock nut

Battery chamber cover

M"IH,Ii"a loot Hot-shoe contacts

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Reflector slot
For bounce fl ash (see page 41).

Sync/multiple flash terminal

For (1) off-came ra operat ion with
a sync cord and (2) multiple flash Aperture selection/shooting
photography in manual fla sh distance range panel
operation (page 46) See pages 18 to 31 .

External power source terminal

Accept s power co rd from Nikon DC Uni t SD-7.

Before using the SB-20,

pee l off the protecti ve
pape r coverin g the pa nel.

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 Light output index windows
Used in M mode Flash mode indicators
Aperture index window selector
Used in A mode , TTL mode~for
I-----;..~~~ programmed TTL

~~~~~s~c~a~l~e w~i~nd~o~w~=====[~=~~!~~j;;iiiIEi~~]
flash operation
auto flashlTTL auto
Film speed scale window
A mode~for non-
Film speed index TTL auto flash
operation
Film knob

M mode~for
Flash shooting distance range manual flash
indicators operation.
The patterned bar (fourth bar from
Ihe lOp) shows programmed TTL
aulo flash information.

Distance scale window Aperture index knob/light output

selector knob
Distance scale selector Used in A and M modes
Power switch
See page 33 .

Open-flash bullon
For (1) lest firing in A mode, (2) mu ltiple Bounce set indicator
flash exposures (page 42) and (3) to turn on Lighls up when flash head is rotated.
SB-20 aft er it is automatica lly turned off Ready-light
(page 33) . See page 34 .

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BASIC O P E R A T I O N - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Installing Batteries

1. Remove battery chamber 2 Load four 1.5 V AA·type 3 To reattach battery

cover. • penlight alkaline· • chamber cover, align front
manganese batteries or 1.2 V edge of the cover with
NiCd batteries into the battery cover index on the
battery chamber. flash unit, then push cover
For battery information , see page down and slide as far as it
50. goes.

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 Attaching Flash Unit to Camera Accessory Shoe

4 Turn the mounting foot 5 Slide mounting foot 6. Tighten lock nut firmly.
• lock nut clockwise as far • forward into the camera's
as it goes. accessory shoe as far as it
goes.

I ~-~--~-~--~---~--
With Nikon F3·series cameras with DE·2 or
I DE·3 finder: Attach Flash Unit Coupler AS-4 or I
I AS-7 to camera's accessory shoe before I
I mounting the S8-20. The S8-20 cannot be I
I mounted on F3-series camera with the other I
finders.
\
~--~~--~~~~-~-~~~

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 Adjusting Flash Head
W(Wide)
For 28 mm or longer lenses

N (Normal)
For 35mm or longer lenses

T (Telephoto)
For 85mm or longer lenses

7 Make sure bounce angle 8 Rotate zoom set ring until desired zoom setting appears in
• set knob is set at 0°. • the window.
Make sure zoom set ring is properly set at its click-stop position.

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 Programmed TTL Auto Flash Shooting (with Nikon F·501/N2020, F·401lN4004 or
F·301/N2000)
Steps 9 through 11 provide instructions for program-
med TTL auto flash shooting with the Nikon F-501 1
N2020*, F-401/N4004** or F-301lN2000' camera.'
For other flash exposure operations (TTL auto, non-TTL
auto and manual flash exposure operations) see " SET-
TING CAM ERA SHUTTER SPEED" on page 17 and
" OETERMINING APERTURE," pages 18 to 32 .
• The Nikon N2020 and N2000 are sold exclusively in the
U.S.A. and Canadian markets .
•• The Nikon N4004 is sold exclusively in the U.S.A. market.
5et the 58·20's flash mode selector to
9"TTL.
'.
~----------------,
For programmed TTL automatic flash opera- '. For the flash shooting range in programmed TTL auto-
tion, note the followi ng : matic operation , see table on page 21.
• • Use AI-S type lenses only. With Nikon F-401 1 I The shooting distance range panel at the back of the
• N4004, use only AF-Nikkor lenses, except • S8-20 also helps you to see the flash shooting range .
• AF-N ikkor 80mm f/2.8, 200mm 113.5 IF-ED I To read a proper distance range, set the film speed
I and Autofocus Converter TC-16/TC-16A. I knob and distance scale selector (see page 19.) A pat-
I • For autofocus operation , set the Nikon I terned bar among the flash shooting distance range
I F-501 / N2020's focus mode selector to S for I indicators shows the shooting distance range in pro-
Single Servo Autofoc us mode, or set the grammed TTL auto operation.
I Nikon F-401 IN4004 to A for autofocu s mode. I
I For details, see pages 14 to 16. I
\ I
~----------------,
10

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 With F·301lN2000

10 Set camera to a programmed exposure mode (P DUAL, P 11. Set lens to minimum
• or P HI for F-501/N2020; P or P HI for F-301/N2000). aperture (largest
With the Nikon F-401lN4004, set the camera to either program auto f-number).
(aperture dial to S, shutter speed dial to A) or shutter-priority auto (aper· With AF Nikkor lenses, lock lens
ture dial to S, shutter speed dial to desired speed) exposu re mode. aperture at minimum setting. (See
the lens instruction manual).
With the Nikon F·401/N4004 , th is
procedure is unnecessary because
the lens is always locked at the
smallest aperture.

11

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 12 Set power switch to STBY (standby 13 Lightly press shutter release button and
• position) to turn on SB·20. • viewfinder ready·light comes on to
LED indicating selected flash mode immediately lights indicate flash is ready to fire.
up.

r~-------------~--~
For blinking ready-light warnings, see
page 35.
'.

I I
I I
I I
I I
\ I
-- ~~ ---------~ ~~~
12

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 14. Fully depress shutter 15. Turn off the 58·20.
release button to take
picture.
Unless viewfinder ready-light blinks
after the shot, your flash exposure
will be perfect; if it does bl ink, pic-
ture may be underexposed-
move closer to subject.
..,. . . . fII:!lIlIlllma . . ffl!II!!l_tlll$ii1tllillll1illllJll

I Do not fire flash toward or

•I near the eyes; it may dam-

. age the retina .

~_8IlIIhll_1IIiIi!\\ W!t!Pi 1llUlll1II\W51lIi\II'

13

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 AUTO FOCUS FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY (with Nikon F-501/N2020 or F-401/-
,
I
I
~----------------~
In programmed TTL autofocus flash photog-
\
raphy, use film with a film speed specified in
N4004)

I the table below for greater depth of field:

I Lens maximum
Film speed
I aperture

I Lens 1/2.8 or laster ISO 50 or laste r

I only Slower than 1/2.8 ISO 100 or higher
I F-5011 1/1.4 or 1/1 .2 ISO 50 or higher
N2020
I with 1/1.8 , 1/2, 1/2.5 or
ISO 100 or higher 1. Set the Nikon F-501/N2020's focus mode
I TC-16A 1/2.8
selector to S for Single Servo Autofocus
mode, or set the F·401/N4004 to A for auto·
focus mode.
Continuous Servo Autofocus cannot be used for auto-
focus flash photography.

14 ~----------------;

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 2. Set aperture.
With Nikon F-401 / N4004, use camera's aperture
dial. Don't forget to lock lens at minimum position. For other flash operations, set as follows:
For programmed TTL operation, set to smallest lens Lens maximum
Aperture setting
aperture (largest I-number) and lock the lens apertu re. aperture
(For details, see the lens instructi on manual). 1/2.8 or larger I·number
fl2.8 or laster
Lens (1/28,1/4,1/5.6 , etc)
only 115.6 or larger I-number
Slower than 1/2 .8
(1/56,1/8,1/11, etc)
F-5011 1/2 or larger I-number
1/1.4 or 1/1 .2
N2020 (1/2 , 1/2.8 ,1/4, etc)
with 1/4 or larger I-number
TC ·16A 1/1 .8,1/2 , fl2.5 or 1/2.8
(1/4,1/5 .6, 1/8, etc)

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 3. Lightly press camera shutter release 4 Confirm whether the green in·focus
button. • indicator LIFO lights up, then fully depress
When ready-light comes on but ambient light is insuffi- the shutter release button.
c ient for autofocus operation , AF illuminator fires to If focus-not-possible indicator LED ( x ) remains lit
start autofocus operation . when using the Nikon F-50llN2020, or if focus indi-
If ambient light is sufficient, the AF illuminator does not cator LED ( e ) blinks with Nikon F-401/N4004, auto-
fi re. focus flash photography is impossible. Focus manually
on the clear matte field.

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 SETTING CAMERA SHUTTER S P E E D - - - - - - - - -
Set camera 's shutter speed, referring to the table As shown .in the table, automatic sync speed setting is
below. available with most Nikon cameras ..
Synchronization Running shutter
Nikon camera Camera setting Viewfinder sh utter speed indication
speed (sec.) speed (sec .)
P DUAL (f-501/N2020 only). P. PHI 1/125 125 lights up
f·5011N2020 ·
1/ 125 or slower A. 112000 1/250sec. 1/1 25 1251ighls up and LED for proper non- flash shulter speed blinks
f·301 / N2000· LED lor manually set shutter speed lighls up and LE D for proper non-flash shutter
1/12S-1sec . and B as set speed blinks : no indication at B
Shu tter dial Aperture dial
A S -
A 14-32 11100 -
f-401/N4004 1/100 or slower 1/2000- 1/125soc S
1/60-1 sec. S as set
112000-1/1 25soc . 14 - 32 1/ 100 -
1/60 - 15ec . and B 14 - 32 as set
All shutter speed setti ngs except
M250 and B in p, S and A modes 1/250 LCD shows 250
1/4000-1/500sec. in M mode 1/250 LCD shows M250
fA 1/250 or slower
1/250 1sec. in M mode as set LCD shows manually set shutter speed
M250 and B in P. S, A and M
modes* * as set No indication
A.1/4000 1/ 500sec . 11250
fE2 11250 or slower II250-8sec. as set
M250 and B" as set -
P. A. 1/ 1000 - 1/125soc. 1/90 Two LEOs representing 1/90sec. lighl up
fG 1/90 or slower 1/ 60- 1sec as set LEO for manually set shutter speed lights up
M90 and BO ' as set No indication
F3-series A 1/80 LCD shows 80
(via AS-4 or AS ·? 1/80 or slower 1/2000 1/125sec 1/80 LCD shows M80
coupler) 1/60 8sec. X. Band T asset LCD shows manually set shutter speed. no indication at B or T
fM 2 1/250 or slower 1/250 1sec. and B as set
A. {I- .1/ 1000 -1/ 125soc . 1190
f G-20 1/90 or slower
1/60 - 1soc.. M90 and B as set -
In TTL mode. programmed TTL auto flash operation Will be performed with the A/-S type lens and F-S011N2020 or F·301IN2000 set at programmed
auto exposure mode.
* * Improper for programmed TTL auto flash operation and TTL auto fla sh operation.

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 DETERMINING APERTURE------------:------
TTL Mode
(for TTL Automatic Flash Exposure Control)
TTL mode is for exclusive use with Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/ N4004,
F- 30 1/N2000, FA, FE 2, and FG came ras only.
For TTL auto fl ash operation with the Nikon F-50 1/ N2020, F-401/ N4004,
or F-301lN2000, be su re to set the camera to aperture priority auto or
manual exposure mode.
For correct exposure in TTL mode, use fi lm with a film speed specified in
the table below:
Camera Film speed
F-501/ N2020 and F- 30 1/ N2000 ISO 25 to 1000 1. Set S8·20's mode selector
F-401 / N4004, FA, FE2 and FG ISO 25 to 400 to TTL.

To determine aperture with the S8-20's aperture selection/shooting dis-

tance range panel for TTL auto fl ash operation , read the following:
(For programmed TTL auto flash operation , see pages 10 to 11.)

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2 Align film speed in use with the film 3 To read proper shooting distance range,
• speed index. • set distance scale selector to letter shown
For intermediate film speeds, use figure nearest the in zoom indicator window.
film speed in use. With ISO 32 film , for example, set to
ISO 25. With fi lm speeds not listed on the scale, be
sure subjects are sufficiently within the shooting dis-
tance range indicated on the back of the S8-20.

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 Next, tum on flash unit and take
shot in the same manner shown in
"BASIC OPERATION," steps 12 to
15.

TN W T-a&..n
POWER I "-""-
w- ......

4. Select and set aperture.

The aperture scale window shows usable apertures. (Depending on
film speed in use, all usable apertures may not be shown in the aperture
scale window; for usable apertures, see table on next page.)
For example, with the film speed index at ISO 100, you can select any
aperture from 112 to 1122. With the zoom set ring at N, selecting 114 lets you
take pictures of subjects 1m to 7.5m (approx 3.3 ft. to 25ft.) away.
With Nikon F-401/N4004, use camera's aperture dial.

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 Usable apertures/shooting distance range in TTL mode Unit: mitt)

ISO film speed Shooting distance range

With zoom set With zoom set With zoom set
1000' 800' 400 200 100 50 25
at W at N at T
2.8-20 3.8-20 4.5-20
2.8+ '/3 2.8 2 - - - - (92-66) (12-66) (15-66)
2.0-15 2.7-20 3.2-20
4+'13 4 2.8 2 - - -
(6.6-49) (8.9-66) (10-66)
1.4-1 1 1.9-15 2.3- 18
5.6 + '/3 5.6 4 2.8 2 - -
(4 6-36) (62-49) (75 - 59)
1.0-7.8 1.3-10 1.6- 12
8+'/3 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 - (33 - 25) (4.3-33) (52 - 39)
0.7 -5.5 1.0-7.5 1.2 - 9.0
Q. 11+ '13 11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2
0 (23- 18) (3.3-25) (39-30)
~ 16+'13 16 11 8 5.6 4 2.8
0.6-3.9
(20-13)
0.7 .-53
(2.3-17)
0.8-6.3
(26-21)
0.6-2.7 0.6-3.7 0.6-4.5
22+'13 22 16 11 8 5.6 4
(2.0-89) (2.0- 12) (20-15)
0.6-1 .9 0.6-2.6 0.6-3.2
- - 22 16 11 8 5.6
(2.0-6.2) (20-85) (2.0-10)
0.6-1.4 0.6-1 .9 0.6-2.2
- - - 22 16 11 8 (20-46) (20-62) (20- 7.2)
0.6-1.0 0.6-1.3 0.6- 1.5
- - - - 22 16 11
(2.0-3.3) (2.0-43) (2.0 - 5.0)
• For Ntkon F·5011N2020 and F-3011N2000 only.
c:=:::J = Programmed TTL auto flash information.

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 Exposure compensation in TTL mode 180 100-shifts to 0.6m to 3.7m at 18025.
With a dark subject (with low reflectivity) or one that is The Nikon F-401/ N4004 has no exposure compensa-
light in tone (having high reflectivity), over- or under- tion dial , and compensates exposure with automatic
exposure may occur. To prevent this, compensate balanced fill-flash .
exposure by rotating camera 's exposure compensation
dial. With the FG, push the exposure compensation ~.
sation value +2 +1 0 -1 -2
Film speed in use
button. (For details, see camera instruction manual.)
The shooting distance range for TTL automatic flash 25 / / 25 50 100
operation varies with the amount of exposure compen- 50 / 25 50 100 200
sation . For compensated distance range, see table at 100 25 50 100 200 400
right , then reset film speed setting on the back of 200 50 100 200 400 800'
88-20. 400 100 200 400 800 ' /'
For example, with 180 100 film and camera 's exposure
compensation dial set at +2, read 25 on the table and
800 ' /1000 ' 200 400 800 ' / /
'For Nlkon F-5011N2020 and F-301IN2000 only.
reset the 88-20'S film speed index to 25.
1:2::1:Not possible; make the necessary compensation in
With the zoom set ring at N and an aperture of f /4, the the non- TTL automatic mode (see the following) or
flash shooting distance range-which is 1m to 7.5 m at shoot on manual.
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 A Mode (for Non·TTL Automatic Flash
Exposure Control)
Use the 88-20 on A mode for automatic operation with
Nikon cameras other than Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/
N4004*, F-301/N2000, FA, FE2, and FG.
The following procedure lets you select aperture with
the 88-20's aperture selection /shooting distance range
panel for non-TTL auto flash operation.
*Non-TTL automatic operation is not possible when
Nikon F-401/N4004 is set to either program or shutter-
priority auto exposure mode.
1. Set 58·20's mode selector to A.

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 2 Align film speed in use with film speed 3 To read proper shooting distance range,
• index. • set distance scale selector to letter shown
For intermediate film speeds, use the figure nearest in zoom indicator window.
the film speed in use. With 18032 film , for example, set
to 180 25. With film speeds not listed on the scale, be
sure subjects are sufficiently within the shooting dis-
tance range indicated on the back of the 88-20.

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 4. Select appropriate aperture and set aperture index knob.
The aperture index window shows usable apertures. With the film
speed index at ISO 100, for example, you can select any aperture from f/2
tof/8 .
With the zoom set ring at N, if you select f/4 , you can take pictures of sub-
jects 1m to 7.5m (approx. 3.3ft. to 25ft.) away.

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 Next, turn on flash unit and take shot in the same
manner shown in " BASIC OPERATION ," steps 12 to 15.

5. Set your chosen aperture.

With Nikon F-401/N4004, use camera's aperture
dial.

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 Usable apertures/shooting distance range in
A mode Unit : m (It)
ISO film speed Shooting distance range
Zoom set Zoom set Zoom set
1600 800 400 200 100 50 25
atW at N afT
1.4- 11 1.9 - 15 2.3- 18
8 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4 -
(4.6-36) (6.2- 49) (7.5-59)
1.0-7.8 1.3-10 1.6-12
tl 8 5.6 4 2.8 2 1.4
(3.3-26) (4.3 -33) (5.2-39)
D.
0 0.7 - 5.5 1-7.5 1.2-9
16 11 8 5.6 4 2.8 2
~ (2 .3-18) (3 .3 - 25) (3.9-30)

22 16 11 8 5.6 4
0.6-3.9 0.7 - 5.3 0.8-6.3
2.8 (20-13) (2.3-17) Exposure compensation in A mode
(2.6 -21)
With a dark background (one with low reflectivity) or
0.6-2.7 0.6 -3.7 0.6-4.5
32 22 16 11 8 5.6 4
(2.0-89) (2.0- 12) (2.0-15) one that is light in tone (having high reflectivity), over-
or underexposure may occur. To prevent this, compen-
sate exposure by stopping down or opening aperture.
With a dark background, stop down the aperture 1/2 to
one full f/stop ; when the background is light in tone,
open the aperture 112 to one full f/stop.
With the Nikon F-401 / N4004, set aperture using the
camera's aperture dial.

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 M Mode (for Manual Flash
Exposure Control)
In M mode, you can choose the
amount of light output: full , 1/2, 1/4,
118 or 1/16.
To determine aperture and/or light
output with the S8-20's aperture
selection /shooting distance range

~':' ~I
panel for manual flash operation,
read the following .
110
1. 5et the 58·20's flash 2 Align film speed in use
mode selector to M. • with the film speed index.
For intermediate film speeds, use
the figure on the scale nearest the
film speed in use. With ISO 32 film ,
for example, set to ISO 25.

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 TN W T-.....
POWER I ~:==

3 To read proper shooting 4. Choose and set aperture.

• distance, set distance The aperture index w indow shows usable ape rtures. For example, with
scale selector to letter shown film speed index set at ISO 100 and the zoom set ring at N, and if you want
in zoom indicator window. to shoot a subject 3m away, you can select any apertu re from 112 to f/8.
You can also determ ine apertu re using the SB-20's guide number (GN ).
For details, see page 32.
With Nikon F-401 / N4004, use camera's aperture dial.

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 Next, tu rn on the fl ash unit and take shot in the same
manner shown in " BASIC OPERATION ," steps 12 to 15.

5. Set !ight output selector to appropriate

setting.
Follow the appropriate vertical line upward from the
distance scale window until it intersects with the hori-
zontal distance scale indicator line for the selected
aperture. Then follow the diagonal dotted line upward
to determine the correct light output for the aperture
selected. For example, with the film speed set at ISO
100 and the zoom set ring at N, to shoot a subject 3.7m
away at f/4,fire the flash at 1/4 light output. Set the light
output selector so the yellow output index shows " 1/4"
in the window below.

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 To determine light output before selecting aperture
Use the following procedure instead of steps 4 and 5 to determine light output before selecting aperture:

1. Set the light output 2. Determine and set proper lens aperture_
selector so the yellow To determine correct aperture, follow both the vertical line from the
light output index indicates distance scale window and the dotted line from the light output window to
the desired light output. the point of intersection . If the lines do not intersect, move closer to sub-
In the example photo, full light out- ject or reset light output selector for more light output.
put is selected. For example, with the film speed index at ISO 100 and zoom set ring at N,
to shoot a subject 10m away at full light output, follow both the ve rtical line
from figure 10 in the distance scale window and the dotted line from the
light output window to FULL. The two lines intersect at distance range indi-
cators for f/2.8-you must set your lens to fI2.8.
To take intentionally over- or underexposed pictures , open or stop-down
the lens aperture.

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 Guide Number Unit · m( ft)
Zoom ISO film speed
See the table at right for guide numbers of the film Light output
setting 1600 400 100 25
800 200 50
speeds and zoom settings.
88 62 44 31 22 15 11
In M mode, use the following equation to determine W (289) (203) (144) (1U2) (72) (49) (36)
aperture: 120 85 60 42 30 21 15
Full N (394) (279) (197) (138) (98) (69) (49)
guide number
flstop = - - : : : . - - - - - - - T 144 102 72 51 36 25 18
flash-to-subject distance (472) (335) (236) (167) (118) (82) (59)
62 44 31 22 15 11 7.8
With ISO 400 film and the zoom set knob at N, the w (203) (144) (102) (72) (49) (36) (25)
S8-20's guide number is 60(m) for full output. If the 1/2 N
85 60 42 30 21 15 11
subject is 15m away, divide 60 by 15 to get f/4. (279) (197) (138) (98) (69) (49) (36)
102 72 51 36 25 18 13
T (335) (236) (167) (118) (82) (59) (43)
44 31 22 15 11 7.8 5.5
w (144) (102) (72) (49) (36) (25) (18)
60 42 30 21 15 11 7.5
1/4 N (197) (138) (98) (69) (49) (36) (25)
72 51 36 25 18 13 9
T (236) (167) (118) (82) (59) (43) (30)
31 22 15 11 7.8 5.5 3.9
w (102) (72) (49) (36) (25) (18) (13)
42 30 21 15 11 7.5 5.3
1/8 N (138) (98) (69) (49) (36) (25) (17)
51 36 25 18 13 9 6.3
T (167) (118) (82) (59) (43) (30) (21)
22 15 11 7.8 5.5 3.9 2.7
w (72) (49) (36) (25) (18) (13) (88)
30 21 15 11 7.5 5.3 3.7
1/16 N (98) (69) (49) (36) (25) (17) (12)
36 25 18 13 9 6.3 4.5
T (118) (82) (59) (43) (30) (21) (15)

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 SETTING POWER S W I T C H I - - - - - - - - - - - -
With other cameras :
Though the ON position is normally recommended for
turning on the flash unit, STBY can also be used.
With other Nikon cameras, even if the camera's expo-
su re meter stays on , the SB-20 au tomatically turns off
when not used for one or two minutes. To turn on
again, set power switch to ON or OFF posi tion, then
reset to STBY. For convenience, you may also push
the open-flash button to turn on the SB-20.

ON Position
STBY (STAN OBY) Position With cameras other than the Nikon F·501/N2020,
Use to conserve energy and shorten recycling time. F·401/N4004, F·301/N2000, FA, FE2, and FG:
This position is normally used to turn on the SB-20.
With Nikon F·501/N2020, F·401/N4004, F·3011
N2000, FA, FE2, and FG: With the Nikon FA, FE2, and FG:
Use the SB-20's STBY position to turn on the SB-20. To turn on the SB-20 when using mechanical shutter
In STBY position, when the camera's meter turns off, in settings (M250, M90 or B), set power switch to ON .
one or two minutes the SB -20 turns off automatically.
To turn the SB-20 on again, lightly press the camera's OFF Position
shutter release button. When not using the flash unit, always set the power
Note: When the Nikon FA or FE2 is connected to Nikon Motor
switch to OFF position.
Drive MD-12 via a remote cord, the camera's meter stays on
and the 58-20 remains on at 5TBY position.

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 READY-LIGHT INDICATIONS------------
5 7 10 15 20 3D 4050 F3-series FA

F-501 /N2020,
F-301/N2000
When the fl ash unit is turned on, the S8-20's ready-light With alka line-manganese batteries, if the ready-l ight
lights up to indicate the flash is ready to fire. takes more than 30sec. to lig ht up, replace the bat-
To activate the viewfinder ready-light fu nction when teries with a fresh set.
using the Nikon FA, FE2, F-501 / N2020, F-401 / N4004,
F-301/ N2000, FG, or FG-20, first turn on the camera's
meter by lightly pressing the shutter release button .

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 Ready-Ught Warning Functions
To prevent errors, the ready-light inside the camera's 4) When shutter speed set on the FE or FM2 is faster
viewfinder blinks in the cases listed below. When blink- than the flash sync speed. Set the shutter speed to
ing occurs, check the S8-20's flash mode selector the flash sync speed or slower one.
setting, the camera's shutter speed/mode selector set- 5) With the Nikon F-401/N4004, when the built-in flash
ti ng or film speed sett ing and adjust as necessary. and 88-20 are OFF, and when the camera detects
1) When S8-20 is set at TTL with cameras other than flash is effective, the ready-light in the camera 's
Nikon F-501lN2020, F-401 / N4004, F-301 /N2000, viewfinder blinks when the shutter release button is
FA, FE2, or FG. Reset 88-20's flash mode selector lightly pressed.
to A or M.
2) When using the FA, FE2, or FG to perform TTL auto- With the 88-20 in TTL or A mode , if both viewfinder
matic flash photography with the camera 's shutter ready-light and S8-20 ready-light blink after taki ng pic-
speed dial set at a mechanical setting (M250, M90 tures (to warn that lighting might have been insufficient
or 8) Reset shutter speed dial to another shutter for correct exposure), confirm subject is within the
speed setting. For M250, M90 or 8 setting, reset flash shooting distance range and, if necessary, use a
88-20's flash mode selector to A or M. wider aperture or move closer to the subject.
3) When performing programmed TTL auto or TTL With the Nikon F-401/N4004, for scenes where the
auto flash operation with a camera film speed set- background is extremely bright, the ready-light may
ting beyond the usable range. Use film within the not blink after the shot, even if flash is insufficient for
appropriate range for TTL auto flash photography correct exposure.
(180 25 to 400 with the F-401/N4004, FA, FE2 or With weak batteries, ready-lights blink to indicate in-
FG ; 18025 to 1000 with the F-501/N2020 or F-301/ sufficient flash power, even if the subject is within
N2000). With the FA, ready-light also blinks when the shooting distance range; replace batteries with
the film speed setting on the camera is near ISO 12. a fresh set.

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 SYNCHRO-SUNLIGHT FILL-IN FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY-----
For backlit subjects, to fill in shadows and balance
lighting, use the 8B-20 even in daytime.

----------------,
In the-following, use a slower shutter speed to
avoid a dark background.
\
I

Without flash:
By setting the F-401 !
The backl it subject N4004 to program ,
comes out too dark. aperture-priority or
shutter-priority auto
exposure mode, with
the 8B-20 set to TTL,
I automatic balanced
I fill-flash is possible in
I situations where fill-flash
I is effective, even with a
I bright subject. For details,
see the F-401!N4004
instruction manual.
With flash: (In manual exposure
Both the subject
mode, ordinary TTL fill-
and the background
flash is possible.)
come out properly
exposed.

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 In TTL Mode In A Mode
1. Set the camera shutter speed manually to a flash 1. Determine correct aperture for the backl it subject
synchronization speed or slower speed. (according to method on page 25) by referring to the
2. Frame the background in the camera viewfinder, S8·20's aperture selection/distance range panel,
turn on the camera 's exposure meter to determine then set both the ape rture index and the aperture on
aperture for a correct background exposure, then the lens.
set the aperture on the lens. 2. Frame the background in the camera viewfinder and
3. Set the flash mode selector to TTL, turn on the turn on camera meter to determine proper shutter
S8·20 and take the shot. speed for the aperture set on the lens. The shutter
With a strongly backlit subject (e.g., scene which in· speed must be equal to or slower than the flash sync
cludes the sun), it may be difficult to obtain desired speed-without a proper shutter speed you cannot
exposure balance. In thi s case, use the S8·20 in M perform fill·in flash photography in A mode.
mode. 3. Set the shutter speed from step 2 on camera's
Note: 00 not use programmed TTL flash operation for fill·in shutter speed dial.
flash photography. 4. Set the flash mode selector to A, turn on the flash
unit and take the shot.
With a strongly backlit subject, perform fill·in flash
photography in M mode.

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 I ~--------------~-~
In M Mode
1. Manually set the camera shutter speed to a flash To eliminate harsh shadows caused by ambient \
synchronization speed or slower speed. I daylight, decrease flash illumination by one or I
2. Frame the background in the camera's viewfinder, two f/stops using one of the methods below. I
then turn on the camera's exposure meter to read I' 1. Use an aperture one or two f/stops smaller I
proper aperture for correct background exposure, I than that determined in step 2 in combina-
and set the aperture on the lens. I tion with a shutter speed slower by one or
3. Calculate the flash-to-subject distance using the I two steps.
equation below and set the S8-20 at the calcu lated I 2. Reduce the amount of light output by one or
distance. I two steps by resetting the light output selec-
tor knob.
guide number* I 3. Use a flash-to-subject di stance from 1.4 to
flash-to-subject = -=------
f/stop two times longer than that determined using
* For guide number, see page 32. the equation in step 3.

4. Set the S8-20's flash mode selector to M, turn on the

flash unit and take the shot.

I
I
I
I
I
I
I
38 ~----------------~

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DIFFUSING THE L l G H T - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Diffused light eliminates harsh shadows and creates
attractive portraits. There are two ways to diffuse light:
1. Bounce light off a broad refl ective surface such as
the ceiling;
2. Use a diffu ser between the flash and the subject.

Direct flash: Harsh, unflattering

lighting.

Bounce flash: Soft, natura l-looking

lighting .

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 •

Bounce Flash Photography Procedure

1. Select a cei ling to bounce the flash from. In color 5. Bracket your exposures. You are recommended to
photography, select a white or si lver ceiling-other· take additional shots with the camera's exposure
wise, color photographs come out with an unnatural compensation dial set in the + or - direction (not
color cast similar to that of the reflecting surface. possible with Nikon F·401/N4004) for TTL auto flash
2. Rotate the flash head upwards, towards the ceiling. operation or with the lens opened up or stopped
To avoid uneven illum ination, rotate flash head back down one or two f/stops for non·TTL auto flash
60° or more. operation.
3. Set flash mode selector to TTL for TTL auto fl ash
operation· or A for non·TTL auto flash operation , then
turn on the flash unit. The bounce indicator lights up.
4. Choose an aperture and perform a test firing. If the
ready·light olinKs after test firing, indicating under·
exposure may occur at the aperture set on the lens,
use a wider aperture or reduce the bounce distance
and test fi re the flash again.

40

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I ~----------------~\
I
I
I
I
I
I

To create a catch light for the subject's Using A Diffuser

eyes: Insert white paper into the S8-20 's re- Place a translucent material, such as one or more
flector slot so a small amount of direct illumi- sheets of tracing paper, between the flash and subject
nation fills in unflattering shadows around the to diffuse light. It is recommended that you experiment
eyes. with different flash-to-diffuser distances and/or more
than one diffuser.
Use the S8-20 on TTL or M mode when using a diffuser.

I
\
~----------------, 41

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 SYNCHRONIZATION WITH-- MULTIPLE FLASH EXPOSURES-
MOTOR-DRIVEN CAMERA 6 1 15 2 3 4 6 8 10
235710152030
In M mode, you can perform sequential fl ash shootings
w ith a motor driven camera at up to 4.2 fps (frames per
second ).
The maximum number of flashes for continuous shoot-
ing are listed below.

Max imum
Batteri es Light output number 01
fl ashes *

1/4 2 To create multiple-exposure "stroboscopic " effects or

AA-type alkali ne-manganese paint the scene with light, use the following procedure :
1/8 4
batteri es inside S8-20 1. Disconnect the flash uni t from the camera body.
1/16 8 2. Set the camera at B (bulb).
3. Push the open-flash button repeatedly-as many
AA-type alkaline-manganese 1/4 4 times as desired.
batteries inside S8 -20 plus
C-type alkaline-manganese 1/8 10
batteries inside opt ional
DC Unit SD-7** 1/16 40**·

• When the SB-20 IS charged fo r 30sec. after the ready-

light lights up; at 4.2fps with fresh batteries; at 20°C
(68°F)
.* For details about the SO-7, see page 52 .
•• * More flashes possible, but never fire the flash more than
40 times. Before firing the flash again, stop using for
more than 10 minutes.

42

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MULTIPLE FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY-----------'-'

TTL Multiple Flash Photography

Use the Nikon Speedlight SB-22, SB-20, SB-18, flash terminal. Because the SB-22, SB-2 1B, SB-20,
SB-16B or SB-15 connected to an F-501/N2020, SB-18 and SB-15 are not provided with a TTL multiple
F-401lN4004, F- 301/N2000, FA, FE 2, or FG camera flash terminal, it is necessary to use TTL Remote Cord
as a master flash unit ; and use either the SB-22, SC -17 when using these flash units as a master flash
SB-2 1B, SB-20, SB-18, SB -1 7, SB-16A, SB -1 6B and/or unit. To use the SB-22 , SB-20, SB-18 and/or SB-1 5 as
SB-15 as slave flash unit(s). Up to five flash units can slave flash un its, use the AS-10. When using the
be used . SB-140, SB-14 and/or SB-11 for TTL multiple flash
For TTL multiple flash photography, use the optional photography, you should also use TTL Remote Cord
TTL Multi-Flash Sync Cord SC-18 (1.5 m) and /or SC-19 SC-23. With the Nikon F-401/N4004 , programmed TTL
(3 m) to connect th e flash .units via the TTL multiple auto flash and TTL auto flash are not possible with the
SB-11 / 14/140 (even with the SC-23) or SB-21 . They
cannot be used for TTL multi-flash either, even as a
slave fl ash unit.
See the system chart on the next page.

43

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 System chart for TTL multiple flash operation

@~ @

SB11 0 SB141
58140

~~
lJJlQ&J lJiQ}j
Nikon F-501/N2020 Nikon FA

uIQJ~
Nikon F-401 fN4004 Nikon FE2

S8-16A
@

~ mQiJ O
Nikon F-301{N2000
" -- -- --
Nikon FG
-----1

SC-17

SB·21A

@ indicates the "master" flash unit. *The S8-11, S8-14, S8-140 and S8-218 cannot be used with
Nikon F-401/N4004 either as a master or slave flash unit.
44

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 ~Qi~
~~'"'.~ r ~
<;

~
58-140
E1
AS-11
E1
AS-11 AS·l0
SB·l 1

AS-l0

<;
o~ ,"w~
~
5 8 -140

~
AS-1O

I
~ I

~.~
I
~
AS·10

I
El
AS-l1
El
AS-11
t=)
AS· l0

45

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 AVOIDING "RED EYE"----
"Red eye " is a common phenomenon in flash photog -
raphy where the center portions of a subject's eyes
appear as bright red orbs in color photograph s, or
white in black-and-white pictures.
To avoid " red eye," take any or all of the following pre-
cautions:
- Ask the subject not to look directly into the lens when
the picture is taken.
- Using a sync cord or TTL Remote Cord 8C-17, remove
the flash unit from the camera and hold it as far away
from the camera as possible.
Manual Multiple Flash Photography - Increase the overall room illumination to reduce
opening of the subject's pupils.
Connect the 88-20 and other flash units with the
optional Nikon 8ync Cord 8C-11 or 8C-15 via the
88-20 's multiple flash te rminal.
For correct exposure in manual multiple flash opera-
tion, be sure all flash units are set at manual flash mode.

Caution
To avoid damaging the flash units or incorrect operation,
never mix Nikon SpeedJight with flash units of other manu-
facturers.

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CLOSE-UP FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY IN TTL M O D E - - - - - -
When used with the Nikon F-501/N2020, F-401/N4004, If you are using ISO 100 film for example, and the
F-301/N2000, FA, FE2 or FG camera, the optional TTL flash-to-subject distance is 0.5m , divide 4 by 0.5 to
Remote Cord SC-17 lets you perform flash shooting get f/8. That means you can use an aperture of f/8 or
with a subject closer than 0.6m. smaller. Use as small an aperture as possible.
1. Use the SC-17 to connect the S8-20 and camera. 5. Set the flash mode selector to TTL, tu rn on the S8-20
(See SC-17 instruction manual.) and take the shot.
2. Position the S8-20 and rotate the flash head so light With very light· or dark·toned subjects, make expo-
from the flash head covers the subject. sure compensation with the camera 's exposure com-
3. Regardless of the lens in use, set the zoom set ring pensation dial.
so "W" appears in the zoom indicator window.
4. To determine aperture, use the following equation:
A
f/stop~ ---------
flash-to-subject distance
where A corresponds to the film in use according to
the table below:

47

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 TIPS ON SPEEDLIGHT C A R E - - - - - - - - - - - -

• To remove smudges, wipe with a • Never disassemble or repair the • Keep the S8-20 away from places
dry soft or silicon-treated cloth. flash unit ; if the S8-20 malfunc- where temperature is higher than
Never use thinner, benzine or tions, take it immediately to an 50°C, and do not store in damp
alcohol-they might damage authorized Nikon dealer or ser- places. Use within the range of
plastic parts. vice center. - 10°C-+50°C.

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• Keep the 88-20 away from salt • When not using the 88-20, re- • When the 88-20 is not used, per-
water and out of the rain. move batteries to avoid damage form the following once a month:
due to battery leakage. If leakage 1_ Install batteries, turn on the
occurs, take the 88-20 to your 88-20 and fire flash a few
nearest Nikon authorized service times.
facility. 2. Wait until the ready-light comes
on.
3. Turn off the 88-20, and remove
the batteries.

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 ABOUT B A T T E R I E S - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
New batteries NiCd batteries
Purchase the new (freshest) batteries possible. In comparison with regular batteries, NiCd batteries
provide faster recycling time and better efficiency at
Temperature low temperatu res.
Battery life ratings are based on operation at 20°C
Before charging NiCd batteries, thoroughly read in-
(68 ° F). At other temperatures, battery life is shortened.
structions for batteries and battery charger.
For low tempe rature operation, keep spare batteries
and if possible, use NiCd batteries. ' Batteries with a .. + .. terminal that exceeds 6mm in diame-
ter cannot be used.
Continuous use
Batteries are drained much more quickly by continu-
ous use than by intermittent use.
Storage
Store batteries in a cool, dry place below 20°C (68° F).
Battery brand
Do not mix battery brands or model numbers, or new
and old batteries.
Disposal
Do not dispose of batteries by burning, and never dis-
assemble batteries.

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ACCESSORIES---~-------------
Sync Cords SC-11 and SC-15
For off-camera or manual multiple lighting setups or to
connect the S8-20 to a camera without a hot shoe use
sync cord SC-11 (25cm long) or coiled sync cord SC-15
(one meter long).

TTL Remote Cord SC-17

For programmed TTL auto flash operation or TTL auto
fl ash operation when using the S8-20 off the Nikon
F-501/ N2020, F-401 /N4004, F-301lN2000, FA, FE2 or
FG camera, use coiled cord SC -17. The SC-17 ensures
automatic sync speed setting and ready-light veiw-
finder indication just as if the flash unit were directly
mounted on the camera. Comes with two TTL multiple
flash terminals and one tripod socket.

TTL Multi-Flash Adapter AS-10

When using the S8-20, S8-18 or S8-15 as a slave flash
unit or when using more than three flash units , use the
AS-10. Comes with three multiple flash terminals and
one tripod socket.

AS-10

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 TTL Multi·Flash Sync Cords SC-18 and
SC-19
Use the SC-18 or SC-19 to connect flash units in TTL
multiple flash operation. The SC-18 is approx. 1.5m
long; the SC-19 is approx. 3m.

Flash Unit Couplers AS-4 and AS-7

To mount the S8-20 on a Nikon F3 -series camera with
the OE-2 or OE-3 finde r, use the AS-4 or AS-?' The AS-7
lets you change film without removing the flash unit.

OC Unit SO-7
The Nikon OC Unit SO-7 is an optional external power
source. To use it, connect the SO-Ts power cord SC-16
to the S8-20's external power terminal. Even when AS-4
powered with the SO-7, the S8-20 still requires bat-
teries inside the flash unit-do not remove the
batteries.

SO-7

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SPECIFICATIONS,----------------
All performance data are for normal-temperature operation Power source Four 1.5 V AA-type alkaline-
[20°C (68°F)] manganese or NiCd batteries ;
Electronic Automatic si licon-controlled optional Battery Pack SD-7
construction rectifie r and series circuitry holding six C-type batteries is
Guide number 30 (ISO 100 and meters) or available as an external
(at manual full light 49 (ISO 25 and feet) with the power source
output) zoom set ring at N . Power switch Th ree positions are pro-
Zoom capability Th ree settings: W for vided-OFF, STBY (for
wideang le, N for normal and standby) and ON ; at STBY
T for telephoto position with the Nikon F-501 !
Angle of coverage N2020, F-401!N4004, F- 301!
Zoom set
N2000, FA, FE 2 or FG, SB-20
Horizontal Vertical Usable lens turns off automatically when
ring position
flash unit is not used for one or
W (wideangle) 53° 70° 28 mm or longer
two minutes and turns on when
N (normal) 45° 60° 35 mm or longer camera exposure meter is on
T (telephoto) 23° 31° 85mm or longer
Bounce capability Flash head can be rotated
down to - r or up to 90°
Flash duration
Light output
Flash duration (approx.)
(approx.)
Full 1I1 200sec.
1/2 1/1500 sec .
1/4 1/3700sec .
1/8 117400sec.
1116 1I15000sec.
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 Number of flashes and recycling time at manual Usable film speed ISO 25 to 1000 with Nikon
full light output range in TTL mode F-501/N2020 and F·301l
Number of flashes Recycling time
N2000 or ISO 25 to 400 with
Battery type Nikon F·401/N4004, FA, FE2,
(approx.)* (approx.)
and FG
AA·type Usable aperture f/2 to f/22 (at ISO 100)
160 times 6sec.
alkaline·manganese range in TTL mode
AA·type NiCd 60 times 4sec. A mode For non-TTL auto flash oper-
ation; light is measured via
Up to 40 times 3sec. light sensor in front of the
C·type alkaline· Up to 200 times 5sec. flash unit
manganese inside
the optional SD·7" Up to 400 times 10sec. Usable apertures in f/2, f/2.S, f/4 , f/5.6 and f/S
Up to 450 times 30sec.
A mode (at ISO 100)
Shooting distance range in A mode Unit: mULl
* For autofocus operation assisted by the AF Illummator,
less number of flashes available. Shooting distance range at ISO
Aperture
** With four AA-type alkaline-manganese batteries installed 100 and zoom set ring set at N
in the S8-20 1/2 1.9-15 (6.2-49)
Flash exposure Three flash modes are 1/2.B 1.3-10 (4.3-33)
control provided: TTL, A and M 1/4 1.0 - 7.5 (3.3 - 25)
TTL mode Used only with Nikon F·5011
1/5.6 0.7 -5.3 (23-17)
N2020, F-401/N4004, F-3011
N2000, FA, FE2 or FG; for pro- liB 0.6 - 3.7 (2.0 - 12)
grammed TTL auto flash oper- M mode For manual flash operation;
ation (with F·501/N2020, F-4011 amount of light output can be
N4004 or F-301/N2000 only) or varied in five steps
TTL auto flash operation; light
is measured through the lens

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AF assist LED Automatically fires LED
beam toward the subject
when performing autofocus
with the Nikon F-501/N2020
(Single Servo) or F-401 /N4004
camera in insufficient light
Dimensions Approx.7 1(W)x110(H)x
70(D)mm (27x4.3x27 in)
Weight Approx. 260g (9 1oz)
(without batteries)
Accessories provided Soft Case SS-20
Specifications and designs are subject to change without
notice.

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 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.

Nikon

NIKON CORPORATION
FUJI BLDG., 2-3, MARUNOUCHI 3-CHOME, CHIYODA-KU, TOKYO 100, JAPAN
PHONE: 81-3-3214-5311 TELEX: NIKON J22601 FAX: 81-3-3201-5856

Printed in Japan 9&221-C03(S136)

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