First flash (Nikon)

[Llamaman]

Hi

I'm thinking it's time I started teaching myself to use flash properly (I've previously tended to avoid using it as on-board flash is horrid).

However, it might not get used very much (I don't take a lot of indoor photos, but maybe I will if I get better results...) so I don't want to spend loads right now. This rules out a new SB600, but I could possibly stretch to a new SB400.

I also found a 2nd hand SB24 for sale for £40. Would this be a good start?

Specs are:
GN: 118 (ft), 36 (m)
Weight: 13.7 oz. (390g) (w/o batteries)
Size: 5.6” (131mm) tall x 3.1” (80mm) wide x 3.9” (100mm) deep
Power: four AA batteries
Recycle Time: 7 seconds minimum (full discharge)
# of Flashes: ~100 at full manual
Flash Duration: 1/1000
Coverage:
(78 degrees horizontal, 60 degrees vertical) 24mm lens; also supports 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 70mm, and 85mm coverage
Case: SS-24 for main unit
Key Features: TTL flash control on most TTL-capable Nikon bodies; Full power TTL, five power level manual, and Automatic (six apertures) settings. LCD panel shows settings. Rear curtain sync. Repeating flash. The SB-24 can synchronize with up to four additional flashes. Head tilts from –7 degrees below horizontal up to 90 degrees above horizontal, and rotates -270 degrees to plus 180 degrees clockwise. Aufofocus assist light.

 

[Flash In The Pan]

The SB24 is a great old flash, but it is old - if you want something that will work seamlessly with your camera you'd be better off with a secondhand SB600 or, at a push something like a Nissin Di622. The SB400 is a waste of time, being barely more powerful than your camera's onboard flash.

 

[neilos100]

Take a look here http://support.nikonusa.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/886/~/d-slr-and-nikon-speedlight-compatibility
This chart shows what all the Nikon Speedlights will do on all the bodies.....in your case, the SB-24 wont actually do very much at all on the D5000, except auto, manual, rear curtain and strobe. No TTL I'm afraid.

Neil

 

[Llamaman]

I was worried you'd say that. Guess I'll have to raid the piggy bank...

Edit: just seen that Jessops are selling their own brand tilt/swivel flash for £70. Guess that'll do for learning and if I use it a lot I'll have to save up (or ask Santa) for a Nikon...

 

[neilos100]

Look here http://www.microglobe.co.uk/catalog...sin-di622-digital-flash-for-nikon-ittl-camera
BARGAIN! And it does iTTL too