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Customers most agreed on the following attributes:
from Charleston, SC on 4/16/2008
I bought the SB-800 after conversing with friends and researching online. The SB-600 is also a good light, but doesn't have the ability to be a 'master' as the SB-800 does. So - for a few dollars more I opted to purchase the SB-800 (it also has a stronger flash). I used it at a wedding on a bright sunny day (for fill flash) and the ensuing reception in a building (standard low-light setting) and finally when the bride and groom left it was overcast and raining. In all aspects the flash worked as expected and even though I didn't use any special settings, I consistently obtained the shot I was trying to get. My only regret was in not purchasing the nickel metal hydride batteries as the disposable alkalines I used (while adequate most of the time) developed longer and longer cycles between flashes. In the future I plan to buy 2 sets of the rechargeable batteries.
I purchased the add-on 5th battery replacement panel on review suggestions, but when my light came it had one in the box along with a filter and a diffuser. These added items were also appreciated and useful. The 5th battery helps the recharge time and length of use.
I used the setup on a Nikon D-50 with a Quantaray 28-200 zoom lens. I will be doing some close up portraits and some Black and White pics later this month.
Great Item.
from Fairfax, VA on 4/10/2008
The SB-800 has been a great addition to my camera bag. Great recycle time and very adjustable.
from Baltimore, Md on 3/20/2008
This speedlight is awesome! I have two and use one with the slave/master feature! Couldn't ask for a better flash unit.
from Allenton, WI on 3/20/2008
I recently purchased a Nikon D 300 and this SB 800 Flash seems to work EXCELLENT with the camera.The camera has what is called a commander mode that allows me to set up one or more of these flashes in different areas to work by means of wireless remote in sync with the shutter of the camera. The photos that I have taken since I have worked with this flash are outstanding very proffesional looking. A excellent flash don't pass it up if your thinking about buying one.
from Kansas City, MO on 3/6/2008
This is the light you need to take portraits especially. I Use to be setup with a fuji s2 and the sb-28, now I have a D300 and the sb800 and it's much more effective. The sb800 is so much more powerful as well. Definitely a must have!
from Cincinnati, OH on 3/6/2008
I own two of these flash units and can't think of any reason to get a different one for my Nikon and Fuji cameras. I normally use mine on a flash bracket, but this unit also does a good job on-camera or when used as a remote. It's very versatile and the TTL modes do a great job of managing light levels so you can avoid blowing out the highlights. I like the extra battery compartment, so you can use this flash with five AA's instead of four. It makes the cycle time even quicker.
Don't be tempted by cheaper off-brand flash units. This is the one you want.
from Bay Area, CA on 2/21/2008
Takes a little time to learn all the features, but it's great overall. Highly flexible for different shooting needs.
from Michigan on 2/21/2008
What can you say about a flash. The Nikon SB800 works well and does what it is suppose to do with Nikon cameras. It is easy to use.
from Pine Mountain, GA on 2/21/2008
I wanted a little more power than what my SB-600 can put out and I am glad I bought this. It comes with so many more accessories that the difference in price is worth it. I also bought a Gary Fong Universal Lightsphere and I will be getting an additional one of those! Get one and see for yourself!
from North Carolina on 2/21/2008
I Love the features on the SB-800, I originally bought the SB-600 thinking it was enough.... Wrong, the SB-800 has so many features above the 600, it is worth the money for the upgrade.
The flash produces some nice results, especially when using as a fill flash. The wireless capability does work within the limitations of line of sight.
A number of users, including myself, have seen issues with the lever style flash mount becoming weak over time and the flash shorting and causing random flashes without triggering the shutter. Some have used shims, but a service call might be the better solution.
A good flash, it just needs a redesign of the mounting shoe and a wireless system that works without line of sight limitations.
from South Hackensack, NJ on 1/27/2008
A professional friend recommended this flash over those of other manufacturers, and I have to say I could not be happier with it.
from Texas on 1/22/2008
This is the only flash to have. We use one on a Nikon D-200 and another one on a Nikon D-300. If something ever happens to one of ours we will replace it with another SB-800.
from Toronto,Canada on 1/22/2008
nikon sb 800 is one of the best or the best lightweight flash in the market.Well done nikon.
from West Bloomfield, Michigan on 1/22/2008
The SB800 is a superb piece of equipment. Easy to use navigation and it's role in the Nikon Creative Lighting system make it an indispensible part of my portable protrait studio. I think so highly of it's function and performance, I own 3 of these Speedlights.
from Alexandria, VA on 1/21/2008
I have had this flash for a few months and it has exceeded my expectations. I would purchase the 800 rather than the 600 if you are deciding between the two.
from TUCSON, AZ on 1/21/2008
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
from New Jersey on 1/21/2008
I have used other aftermarket flashed and even Nikon's SB-600 and the 800 blows them away for exposure, coverage, color of light, accruacy and ease of use. Nikon's quick release lock makes those old screw down flashes of the past into dinosaurs. I'll be buying a second one shortly!
from West Bolton, Vermont on 1/21/2008
Though this is a slightly expensive piece of equipment I feel that is was money well spent. I've been able to use the flash in many different setups and still haven't learned all the in/outs of how this flash works. Getting the right exposure time and time again makes all the difference.
from Louis Trichardt, South Africa on 1/21/2008
I love this flash because it integrates so beautifully with my D80. I use it mostly for extra light at weddings and other functions. Use the supplied dome and you get a "Softbox" feel on closer shots. [...]
from Rifle CO on 1/21/2008
The SB800 is a great flash. This is the 2nd one I have purchased. It takes a while to figure out how to use it. I purchased 2 different books on this speedlight specifically and I read the forum for speedlights under nikonians.org. I can bounce this flash off a 10 foot wall and still get good light.
The best flash I ever owned. I saw better reviews for the SB-600 on a few websites. So I got one of those and could not get the results I needed. Then I got a SB-800 and ended up liking it much better. The SB-800 is worth the extra money over the SB-600. My SB-600 is now used just for a minor fill flash or if I am photographing in austere locations where I don't want to risk breaking my SB-800.
from Taneytown, MD on 9/27/2007
The obvious best
from Jacksonville, FL. on 9/26/2007
The SB-800 from Nikon is a true Nikon product, excellent in every way possible. I have had it for two hours and have found so many practical uses. If you buy a D200 you must purchase this flash. Read the instruction manual you will be surprised on all it can do.
from Montgomery, AL on 9/26/2007
I used the SB 600 for a couple years with no problems at all but didnt realize what I was missing with the 800. The rapid firing with and the attachable 5th battery ensure I dont miss many shots waiting for the flash to "Get Ready". Will use at a wedding next month and expect to be fully satisfied.
from Flagstaff, AZ on 9/26/2007
Comes with everything you need
I have five of these flashes that I use when setting up a portable studio. I love the wireless capabilities of these flashes and the fact that they are all easily controlled by the SU-800 Remote Commander. It's very quick to setup, and move as needed as well as taking everything down. I have always been very happy with the results of lighting in the pictures I take, and that is really the whole story. I would love to get more of these flashes as well as some larger diffuser panels. I am very happy with the lighting control these provide!
from Schertz, TX on 8/2/2007
This is a great strobe. I can't compare it to the 400 or 600 as I have not used them. I use to be a pro photojournalist about 15 years ago. MAn has equipment come a long way. This strobe is easy to use. Slide it on and go. Yes, it can get technical if you want to do a lot of different things. It is great for the average photographer or the pro. I did not find the manual to be all that bad like other reviewers. I read every manual cover to cover. Once you figure out the symbols that will make navigation much quicker. Play around with it and see what happens. I almost always leave the diffuser on to help soften the light. It is pricey but ggod things cost $$$$s. I always buy one or two steps up from what I think I will need and I am glad I did with this. It has features I may never use, but the one time I need it I am going to be glad I have it. Prior to this, my favorite strobe was the Vivitar 283 (liked it better than the SB-16)
from Nassau, The Bahamas on 7/15/2007
This flash has very fast recycling especially with the fifth battery attachment.
from New York, NY on 7/11/2007
While the Nikon higher end cameras do come with an adequate flash, once you are in the field and taking photographs, nothing can compare with using the SB-800. Its fast cycle time and its ability to automatically detect the camera settings makes this an invaluable addition to any photographers equipment. These flashes can be used on a wide range of settings and it will take time to master but is well worth the time. As a matter of fact, experimenting with flash settings as you learn the flash is an excellent excuse to get out and take more pictures with your digital camera.
The SB-800 really is one of the best, if not the best flash available on the market today. I highly recommend this unit for anyone who seriously needs a high quality flash unit to complete their camera setup.
from Binghamton, NY on 7/11/2007
Another GREAT product from Nikon, I have 4 SB-800 units. I use them as remotes at weddings with the 175f clamp. Check out Nikon's speed of light DVD. Units are very simple to use & setup, only downside is no battery indicator.
from North Jersey on 7/10/2007
I love the TTL use of this flash.
Nothing can match it so far for me.
It is like you have an assistant that make manual flash faster than you can press the shutter.
from Illinois on 7/10/2007
Easy to use, quick recycle, consistent light output, and enough flexability to cover any on camera situation I have run into.
from Houma, LA on 7/10/2007
I've had mine for only two months, but I'm out using every chance I get. I was torn between the cost of the 800 and the slightly cheaper 600, but now I'm grateful for the purchase. The greater flexibility and features is worthwhile, even if you're a first-time user.
from Auckland New Zealand on 7/10/2007
I have used The Nikon SB600 for a number of years achieving good results but with new camera purchase upgraded to the SB800. Current shoot results are proof of a good decision.
from Orlando Florida....home of the Mouse! on 5/15/2007
Have had Nikon Equipment for 30 years. With my recent purchase of a D70s my flash equipment, slaves etc. are almost worthless. REad the reviews of this Flash, and could not honestly believe how happy everyone seemed to be with the performance. It truly is that good and with the added fifth battery is even better and faster. Took 300 shots Friday at a late afternoon/evening outdoor weddng and was quite pleased how the combination worked to provide outstanding coverage edge to edge. Now will have to consider a 600 for a remote slave.
from Ingleside, Texas on 5/13/2007
When I checked "Professional" I consider myself a novice professional. That's someone who is getting paid for some work while doing and learning with each shoot. The SB800 on my D80 has made this jump from serious amateur to "novice" professional a rewarding experience. The frustration of having to wait for my previous camera's built-in flash to recycle is now gone. The drain on battery is very low. I would highly recomment this product to compliment any of the Nikon DSLR's that are compatible for auto use.
from Pinnacle, NC on 5/9/2007
Great flash with massive amounts of flexiblity. I use it with the fifth battery option and get super fast recycling times and long life between battery charges. Excellent flash for fill and directional lighting with my D200
from Miami, FL on 5/9/2007
Provide better lighting effects than the SB-600 that I perviously used. It has a more powerfiul flash and mor special effects to improve your pictures.
from MN on 5/9/2007
I have used much bigger and more expensive lighting for years. The SB 800 is a great sorce of lighting for most situations. I use it most often for event and wedding candids. I prefer it to my expensive and heavy Quantom Q Flash. I also recommend the Gary Fong Cloud Lightsphere (love it)!!! It is a great addition to this flash.
from Cleveland, MS on 5/8/2007
Took it out of the box, put in batteries, put it on my new Nikon D200, and used the automatic TTL settings to bounce off the ceiling and also the 90 degree bounce off the attached bounce card. After only a few tries, the shots of my children were so beautiful that my wife didn't mind how much I'd spent on the equipment. The weight is not bothersome. Recycling speed is impressive compared to my older equipment. I'm just a hobbyist but it is giving me what I'd hoped for. I'm looking forward to really wringing it out.
This product is junk. If you use an external battery, it gets hot and melts and is not covered by warranty.
from New Orleans,LA on 5/8/2007
Overall Rating
Features
Ease of use
Value for your money
Design
Meets expectations
Excellent Speedlight,
Review:
The SB-800 is an excellent flash. I've used it for portrait
work and it gives me great results. I've used the 800 with
two 600's (I wouldn't buy another SB-600 since spending the
extra money for the SB-800 is well worth it) shooting through
umbrellas in wireless mode and have been delighted with the
results. Wireless is fantastic since you can move the
umbrellas around the subject and have total freedom.
The SB-800 recycles quickly as well and lasts a long time on
the five AA batteries.
Problems I encountered with this item:
none
from Hawaii on 5/8/2007
I have been mostly a natural light sports photographer, but adding the SB-800 has added to my bag of tricks. I wish I did it earlier.
from Cape Cod, MA on 5/8/2007
This is my second one. I use it off camera wihn Nikons advanced lighting. Works great!
from edinburgh scotland on 5/8/2007
i find it overall to be inconsistent especially using fast re cycle. it needs an external battery pack. i-ttl with the d200 built in flash is a pain for quick shots unless youve got a lot of time on your hands. for a new user, the instruction book is torture.
it is built well and lasts and using 2-3 of them on location can solve some lighting needs with the right amount of patience. Metz and Quantum may be good options.
from Chesapeake, VA on 4/8/2007
The additional features and included accessories made this flash worth the cost difference over the SB-600 (for me anyway).
I use the included diffuser on a regular basis, and the included tungsten/flourescent filters have helped me to get an accurate color rendition in some challenging lighting situations.
Nikon's flash metering system is great, and the SB-800 works extremely well with my D50. If you can afford it, you won't be disappointed.
from Chicago, IL on 3/26/2007
I initially bought one SB-800 with my Nikon D200 and was impressed with the results (recognizing the inherent limitation of single point flash). But as a serious amatuer without professional facilities (roomy studio and storage space) I opted to expand my lighting capabilities with two more SB-800s, as well as an SU-800, so I can run all three flash units off-camera in three channels. You don't NEED the SU-800 with the D200, but it adds range and flexibilty beyond the excellent capabilitis of the camera. Initially the manual looks a little daunting but setting time aside to quietly reading it with an SB-800 and the camera and it fell into place fairly quickly. I spent the following weekend experimenting and found the results surprisingly good for my first foray into multi-flash since migrating from an OM2 based 35mm film rig to a Nikon D200 based digital outfit. Once you grasp the basics the Creative Lighting System (CLS) is an astonishingly easy system to use considering the complexity of what is actually going on inside these very well thought-out devices. Of course you still have to invest time to understand the effects of light and shadow, but that's part of the journey called photography, not flash units per se.
from Oceanside CA on 3/26/2007
The flash is great; but if you wish to use off camera (wireless), do your research on the Internet for Instructions. The default values for the flash do not coincide with the default values of Nikon cameras when useing as a wireless remote. I was going to return flash unit until I found help on the Internet. Have not had long enough to fully evaluate, but seem to be excellent flash unit.
from Jackson Hole, WY on 3/26/2007
This is my 2nd SB800 which I use with my other 800, SB28, and SB 25. Using the creative llighting system w/ SU4's allows for all 4 flashes to be used as a portable studio set-up. Not as powerful as real studio strobes but very light and easy to transport: great for location setups. With Photoflex light modifiers very flexile system.
I use high capacity rechargable NiMH batteries which allow for very fast recycle times. The biggest draw back to this flash (as with most high tech flashes) is the owners manual is not easy to follow, has no actual multi-flash examples, and gives just a tech review of flash functions and setup. The only way to learn all the possible uses and setings is to experiment.
from Vega Baja, PR on 3/26/2007
Highly recomended to any amateur and profesional photographer for its simplicity and high efficiency. Very recomended to be used with the Nikon D-80 Digital Camera.
from Memphis, TN on 3/26/2007
Can't believe I waited so long to purchase one.
from Austin, TX on 3/26/2007
I mostly use the SB-800 for fill flash outdoors in sunshine and for bounce flash indoors. The diffuser, which is supplied with the unit and fits over the flash's head, works as well as the Sto-Fen diffuser I bought for my old SB-600. On the whole, the SB-800 works very well and reliably. Because I often photograph little kids who, I swear, can move like lightening, I really like the extra battery attachment that makes the unit recycle very fast. My main complaint is that the user's manual is not easy to decipher. However, if I sit down with the manual, my D-200 and its manual, and the SB-800 all fired up and ready to go, I can usually make a particular function work. Granted, it's much like trying to get straight answers from a politician, but eventually I can figure it out. So, hey Nikon, hire somebody who knows how to write a technical manual in language normal people can understand!
from Salt Lake City, Utah on 3/26/2007
It really can make the difference between getting the shot or missing it, especially in low light situations.
from Rochester, NY on 3/26/2007
I have used Nikon products over the years for one reason: dependability. Like other Nikon products, this flash is durable and reliable, performing its job consistently. The multiple flash capability is great, and requires no extra-cost triggers.
from MN on 3/26/2007
I had been using the SB-600 for the past 2 years as a professional, and have just upgraded to the 800. It is WAY better, the higher power alone is worth the extra price. I was finding my 600 not strong enough for group portraits, but I just finished my first on-location family session with the 800, and I couldn't be happier. Recycle time isn't too bad; could be better (could always be better, no matter what flash), but I take LOTS of shots, one right after another, so occasionally I take some when the flash isn't ready yet. The 800 is also MUCH easier to read and decipher than the old 600, I never knew what the heck my 600 was doing.
If you're comparing the two, but price is holding you back, you won't regret getting the 800, it's worth every penny... if you get the 600 you'll be getting the 800 eventually anyway ;)
from Fayetteville, AR on 3/26/2007
Used primarily in Commander mode with an SB600 remote, and for off-camera fill flash using a cord. The unit works just fine in every application so far, and while it's not totally intuitive, it's not difficult to set up and use.
from Denton, TX on 3/26/2007
This is a great flash. It's pretty powerful, though not like a studio strobe, and has loads of features. I think its way more useful than an SB-600 and its worth the extra bucks. I have two of these and i love them! The myth that the SB-800 recycles slower isn't true when you use the same amount of flash. The SB-800 CAN take longer to recycle only when it cranks out MORE power than the SB-600 can. Yeah its heavier but what do you expect when you've got four batteries in there? As fill flash, it recycles instantly. I really like these flashes and I'm glad to have them. They work very well when used with Nikon's Creative Lighting System. I only wish that they didn't preflash as much as they do with the D70 but thats the fault of the camera, not the flashes, because they can operate without when using the SU-800 speedlight commander, which also works very nicely.
from Chicago, IL on 3/26/2007
I have had great results with this flash in both iTTL mode and manual. It is a bit bigger than the SB-600, but not by much. So this is still a pretty small flash, but I like that. It is super versatile and works great with the CLS.
from Columbus Georgia USA on 3/26/2007
I am enjoying these. Much better than SB-600, spend the extra $ You will want more than one of these, then you'll want an SU-800, so start budgeting for that now, and get it over with.
i just switched from canon to nikon, and i choose the sb-800 for my d200, this is an awsome flash. recycle time is amazing. and i also use it with "Gary Fong's Light Sphere II" i get nothing but amazing results.
from Florida on 3/13/2007
This is an excellent tool. Its weight is reasonable (not heavy nor light) Easy to use and something important is that it has the option to add an extra battery (with an external holder) in order to increase the recycling time and then shooting faster. Used with an extender arm, it provides to the camera a professional good looking.
Excellent flash
from Sugar Land, TX on 3/7/2007
Powerful product. Use more than one SB-800 wirelessly and you can still get TTL metering of output.