Flash ???

[Kshack]

I have a new Nikon D40 and a 18-200VR lens. Local reefer suggests using a remote flash from above the tank for best shots. What do you think? Would have to go out and by external flash (400?) so want to get opinions before purchase.
Also, can not get the camera to set the white balance when shooting a white object (plastic salt lid) under Radium 20K lighting. Camera says...unable to record, try again. Any tips?

Thanks

 

[xtm]

The D40 does not have a commander mode.. therefore it cannot be used to set off a remote flash, and definitely not with the SB-400 as it cannot be fired off-camera.

For you to fire an off-camera flash with a D40, you'll have to get an SB-800 (master) and an SB-800/600 (as slave), or an SU-800 commander, OR a Pocket Wizard. These aren't cheap and they are not applicable to what you're trying to achieve.

You don't need to fire a flash above the tank to get good exposure. My suggestion is to meter correctly (instead of Matrix, try spot metering) and shoot RAW (NEF), then change the WB in the computer. I have Radiums+Actinics and it's very difficult to shoot in JPG and have proper WB at the same time.

 

[Kshack]

Thanks. Two questions.
Could I not just use a cable to connect the 400? (about $50)
My computer software that came with the camera has limited white balance options. Is there a photo editing program you suggest? Pretty basic but more white balance options.

 

[xtm]

Yes, you could use a cable, but remember that the cable is hooked on your flash shoe, so how are you going to hold the flash in place?

Also....

cable = $50
SB-400= $120
total = $170

Why spend $170 when you can get an SB-600 for about $50 more. It gives you full iTTL/BL, easy +/- exp. adj, swivel, ability to use a diffuser, and off-camera flash (when you upgrade your D40) and many more features over the SB400.

As for the software, you can download Nikon's ViewNX (it's free). You can tweak your WB settings easily with that program, just remember that you have to shoot NEF.

 

[TitusvileSurfer]

This is where I learned everything I know about flash photography. Well not quite everything, experience is the best teacher and POTN isn't bad, but pretty close.
http://strobist.blogspot.com/
It can explain your situation better than I ever could. Go fourth my young Nikonian and educate yourself, so that you may make an educated decision. You won't be young for long.

 

[Kshack]

So should I explore the whole off camera lighting thing or do you guys just shoot with available tank lighting (or use camera mounted flash?)?
When you say get the sb600 and upgrade the D40, do you mean add something to the camera, or buy different body?

 

[TitusvileSurfer]

You want to take a creative and inspirational photograph of a subject trapped inside a glass box filled with water. The box has 4 sides and an open top. Maybe placing the camera in front of the aquarium with an off camera flash with diffuser looking into the side would create a studio quality effect? You sure can do a lot with it.

I think it would be cool to have a 10 gallon quarantine tank setup specifically as a light box. The options are endless.

 

[xtm]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15418275#post15418275 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Kshack
So should I explore the whole off camera lighting thing or do you guys just shoot with available tank lighting (or use camera mounted flash?)?
When you say get the sb600 and upgrade the D40, do you mean add something to the camera, or buy different body?

When shooting the tank, most of us just use available light.. no flash. The flash tends to wash out everything.

I was saying that for a little more money, you can get the SB600 and get way more useful features over the SB400. Even if you're not planning to upgrade your body, you can still take advantage of the SB600's advanced features.

 

[davidk]

I use off-camera strobe (sb-600) and am pleased with the results.

I use an su-800 controller but you could just as easily use a sc cord for the same effect. You need to experiment with the light levels but you can get nice results.