Nikon SB-800 AF Speedlight

Compatible with both digital and film SLR cameras; auto flash control is set to match the camera body: i-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash control with the D2H, D-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash control and Auto Aperture Flash (AA) with D1 Series and D100 digital SLR cameras, and TTL and Non-TTL Auto Flash (A) with film cameras

Intelligent i-TTL system supports Advanced Wireless Lighting including 3 remote i-TTL speedlight groups controlled through the Master SB-800. D2H and SB-800 wireless lighting system makes operation as easy to use as an on camera speedlight

Individual flash mode settings (TTL), (AA), (A) and (M) are available for each of the four groups (including master controller) for easy total lighting control based on the brightness of the subject and not simply on general output ratios for each group

Auto FP High Speed Sync Mode delivers needed fill flash in bright light

FV Lock (Flash Value Lock) allows photographers to change the composition or zoom for the shot while maintaining desired lighting of the subject

New: Wide-area AF (Auto Focus) Illuminator, covers D2H, D2X and F6's 11 AF sensors; compatible with every AF Nikkor lens

As far as accessories go this was one of my best investments. Basically what Nikon is saying is this thing talks a special language that your digital SLR camera understand perfectly. It has more functions and abilities than most shooters will ever even touch on, including me. Most of the time I simply turn it on and let it work. Rarely do I need to adjust the settings, the SB-800 with a new slr is one smart combination. However when I need to adjust settings manually the SB-800 AF speedlight offers full manual control.

This is a very powerful flash with great coverage. The SB-800 is not cheap but in this case I have to admit it was worth it. My flash unit has lasted me years with no sign of failure in sight. I have used the Sb-800 in freezing temperatures, oven hot desert conditions and even high humidity with no problems at all. The flash unit is like carrying a small studio with me at all times, the infrared assist works wonders in pitch black conditions. Take a look at my galleries and you'll see how important my nocturnal work is to me!