The Nikon Creative Lighting System: Using the SB-600, SB-700, SB-800, SB-900, SB-910 and R1C1 Flashes [ペーパーバック]

Maybe I've become less critical; or maybe Mike Hagen has become a better writer; or maybe I've had time to compare this book to a flock of others dealing with the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS). In any event, while I gave the first edition of this book a so-so review, I find this edition to be the best of the books dealing with the technical aspects of CLS. (CLS is the Nikon system that allows for the controlling of multiple flashes from a single point.)

The book deals with each of the Nikon speedlights and cameras capable of being used with the system, including discontinued models. After a brief background review and quick start guide, the author delves into the nature of flash, and then offers separate chapters on the SB-600, 700, 800, 900 and 910 speedlights. There is also a chapter on the SU-800 commander and Nikon's ring-light kit. Each of these chapters explains each and every button, switch, and menu on these units in sufficient detail to use them properly, including Hagen's recommendations on settings. The images of the equipment and screens are ample to show what must be done (although the type used in the text is a little small). The author recognizes the complexity of the equipment and offers a linear plan for using the equipment to accomplish the lighting task. He also explains the cameras that fit into the system and how to set them. Examples are provided, with the general details of how CLS was used, and finally there are recommendations for ancillary equipment like umbrellas and stands.

One of the best things about the book is that it concentrates on the automated processes of the speedlights (although it does cover manual set-up as well.) Given the ease and accuracy of the automated systems developed by the Nikon engineers, it makes sense to rely upon these systems as much as possible rather than return to the dark ages of guide number calculation. On the other hand, Hagen provides information on manual flash, although the guide number tables he provides are somewhat abbreviated and photographers determined to follow the manual flash route should consult the tables in Nikon manuals.

The task Hagen deals with is immense since each of the pieces of equipment is quite complex in its own right. Readers only need read the instructions for the pieces of equipment they own since matters applicable to all are covered in separate chapters. Hagen's writing is quite clear, and leaves no unanswered questions about the operation of particular pieces of equipment. On the other hand this really is a technical manual about the equipment. The examples of actual application of the equipment are useful but can only give a taste of what is possible. To get the most out of the equipment requires further reading on possible set-ups, like the excellent series of books by Joe McNally. However, no book is better than this one at explaining the technical side of CLS.

In the interest of full disclosure, the book is sponsored by Nikonians, an on-line independent bulletin board (and much more) for Nikon camera users. I have been a member of the organization for more than twelve years and serve as the moderator of its books and magazine forum.

I love all of the books I have purchased from the NikoniansPress. I am a hobby photographer, and have the SB-700 (only one) flash. Over half of the book is on specific SB flashes, then the other half is flash photography and CLS setup. The book features a 5-step plan for flash photography and also gives common mistakes and common shooting scenarios (great for those new to flash photography), and a section on white balance and gel usage (I found this really helpful!).

I also have the Nikon D7000 (Magic Lantern book) on CLS and absolutely love it...if you have a D7000 you will want to get that book too!

If you get this book and like it, check out the other Rockynook- NikoniansPress books, you won't be disappointed!

There's probably more confusion about using flash properly that any other function in photography. I know when I started, I had to feel very daring before I would ever switch that lever off "P" for program mode whenever flash was needed. With five separate flash modes in addition to the 4 main shooting modes (not to even mention Scene modes) that's an awful lot to consider. Hagen explains on p31 why he normally only uses two and which two you probably want to become familiar with.

Getting into the accessories that come with the flash units, he points out that the reflector card that slips out of the flash head is really too small and suggests using your hand instead (see p 62.) Your hand is actually much larger (for a softer light) and the color reflects a warm tone to your subject.
In the Buttons and Controls chapter, Hagen makes sense out of when to increase/decrease exposure versus increasing/decreasing flash output. Also, in a subsequent chapter, you'll learn all about Commander Mode which holds the real power of the Nikon CLS system. He also points out scenarios where you'll want to be concerned with which channel you are shooting on.

The book is full of charts that show which flash work with which Nikon camera models. There are also hints about battery management, including simple hints to tell your new batteries from your depleted ones (p 250.)

One of my favorite tips was something I've had problems with before. Many people tend to blink when the Nikon preflash goes off, causing them to have their eyes closed when the main flash fires. I had one subject in Boston that never had a single good photo in 20 shots until I started using the manual flash settings without preflash. Hagen points out that this can be avoided and still maintain the CLS system automation if you use the FV lock (p 253.)

The book wraps up with many case studies, showing a perfectly exposed photo and a "How'd-he-do-that" explanation. If you are serious about flash photography, whether the pop-up flash on your Nikon or a dedicated unit, you owe it to yourself to look at this book.