Installing the battery

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2

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1 Set the SB-30’s power switch to the OFF position.

2 Open the battery chamber lid as indicated by the arrows.

3 Install the battery following the + and – marks as shown. Then close the battery chamber lid by sliding it into place while pressing down.

•Install one 3V lithium battery (CR123A or DL123A). Do not use the other types of batteries.

•When replacing the battery, be sure to set the power switch to the OFF position. If the battery is replaced while the power switch is set to the ON or STBY (standby) position, the Speedlight may fire accidentally or the power may not turn on correctly. In this case, set the SB-30’s power switch to the OFF position once, then set it back to the ON or STBY position. (p. 7)

Battery performance

•When using a fresh battery, the number of flashes when the SB-30 fires at M1/1 output is approx. 250 times.

•With a fresh battery, the recycling time after the SB-30 fires at M1/1 output is approx. 4 seconds.

•Replace the battery, if the ready-light takes more than 30 seconds to light up when the unit first turned

6 on or after firing the unit.

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Nikon SB-30 instruction manual Installing the battery, Battery performance
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SB-30 specifications

The Nikon SB-30 is a compact and versatile speedlight designed to enhance photography by providing additional light in various situations. Released as part of Nikon’s range of portable flash units, the SB-30 is particularly favored for its lightweight design and advanced features that cater to both amateur and professional photographers.

One of the main features of the SB-30 is its compatibility with a wide array of Nikon cameras. This compatibility ensures that the flash can seamlessly integrate with both film and digital models, making it a practical option for users with different systems. The SB-30 supports TTL (Through The Lens) metering, allowing precise exposure control. This technology measures the light reflected from the subject through the lens, adjusting the flash output to provide optimal lighting conditions.

The flash has a guide number of approximately 30 (in meters at ISO 100), which offers sufficient power for a variety of shooting scenarios, whether indoors or outdoors. The SB-30 is equipped with a tilting head that can be angled to bounce light off ceilings or walls, creating softer, more natural lighting effects. This feature is particularly useful in portrait photography, where harsh direct light can lead to unflattering shadows.

Another notable characteristic of the SB-30 is its ability to utilize advanced wireless communication. It can function as a master or slave unit in a multi-flash setup, allowing photographers to create more dynamic lighting scenarios. This flexibility enables creative control over lighting in complex compositions, making it an excellent choice for event and studio photography.

The SB-30 is powered by four AA batteries, which provide a reasonable number of flashes per charge, depending on usage. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, making it a convenient choice for photographers on the go. Additionally, the flash unit features a built-in diffuser and a wide-angle adapter, which enhance its versatility by allowing for softer light and wider coverage.

In conclusion, the Nikon SB-30 stands out with its combination of portability, advanced TTL functionality, and versatile lighting capabilities. Whether for casual shooting or professional work, the SB-30 remains a reliable choice for those looking to improve their photography with the power of external flash lighting.
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