Using the SB-29 Macro Speedlight on a D-series camera

The SB-29 Macro Speedlight is designed for illuminating close-up images, for example in medical or scientific applications, by providing even illumination from a source which surrounds the objective of an F-Mount lens.

When used with film cameras the TTL mode will normally be used to ensure correct exposure. Due to the digital system being unable to provide off-the film sensing, TTL mode is not available on the SB-29 when used with a Nikon Digital SLR. Nevertheless, it is possible to obtain good results by the following method.

Theory

Using the Nikkor 60mm f2.8 Micro lens a minimum aperture f32 can be set for non-macro use. When focusing closer into macro mode, the lens optics (the front lens group) moves away from the camera CCD. As a result, the amount of light hitting the image plane becomes less and smaller apertures than can normally be selected can be achieved. The 60mm f2.8 can actually reach down to f57 with the D-1 in this mode.

Checking Exposure

The actual aperture value, (including the values which go beyond the normal range) is displayed on the external LCD. The metering system should be ignored, but the immediate digital playback of the Nikon Digital SLR allows for a fast "trial and error" process to be used to take excellent images with a Nikon Digital SLR.

By using the camera shoot and review mode the image and histogram can be seen on the camera TFT monitor immediately after taking an image. The histogram highlights should be checked to ensure that no saturation has occurred due to flash over-exposure. If the exposure is incorrect, simply change the aperture or shooting distance and try again.

Results

In tests with a 105mm f2.8D at 0.314m distance in macro 1:1 mode a minimum aperture of f57 was achieved. This will permit correct good exposure at ISO200.

In tests with a 60mm 2.8D at 0.219m distance in macro 1:1 mode a minimum aperture of F57 was achieved. This will permit good exposure at ISO200.

Close up sample image

Using the SB-29 Macro Speedlight on a D-series camera