Nikon D3200 is a great entry-level DSLR camera that is very popular among photography enthusiasts. One of the main advantages of DSLR cameras is their ability to use external flashes. External flashes can enhance the lighting of your photos and give you more creative control over your images. In this article, we will discuss the best flash for Nikon D3200.
Understanding External Flashes
Before discussing the best external flash for Nikon D3200, it’s important to understand the basics of external flashes. External flashes are devices that attach to your camera’s hot shoe and provide additional light for your photos. They are more powerful than built-in flashes and offer more flexibility in terms of positioning and directionality.
External flashes come in different shapes and sizes. Some have a fixed head that points in one direction, while others have a rotating head that allows you to bounce the light off ceilings or walls. Some flashes also come with diffusers or other accessories that can modify the light output.
Benefits of Using a Flash
Using an external flash with your Nikon D3200 can significantly improve your photography in various ways. A flash provides additional light, which is especially useful in low-light conditions. It helps reduce shadows, eliminates red-eye, and allows you to capture well-lit subjects even in challenging environments. Additionally, a flash can provide more creative control over the lighting in your photographs, enabling you to achieve professional-looking results.
Factors to Consider
When looking for the best flash for your Nikon D3200, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
Power
The power of an external flash is measured in terms of its guide number (GN). The higher the GN, the more powerful the flash. A higher-powered flash can illuminate a larger area and can be used from a greater distance.
Compatibility
Make sure that the flash you choose is compatible with your Nikon D3200. The flash should be able to communicate with your camera and provide full TTL (through-the-lens) metering.
Price
External flashes come in a wide range of prices. Consider how much you are willing to spend and what features are most important to you.
Features
Different flashes offer different features, such as wireless triggering, high-speed sync, and manual control. Consider which features are most important to you and which ones you are likely to use.
Best Flash for Nikon D3200
After considering the above factors, here are the best flashes for Nikon D3200:
Nikon SB-910 AF
The Nikon SB-910 AF is a high-end flash that is well-respected in the photography field due to its excellent functionality. Despite its high price, the SB-910 is a solid investment for photographers looking for high-quality equipment.
The flash features a more straightforward menu for easy navigation, and its filter mechanism is one of the best advances so far, as it eliminates the need for plastic filter fittings or color gels. The fast choose buttons allow for quick triggering and flash exposure modifications, saving photographers time without sacrificing quality.
Additionally, the SB-910 can function as a wireless commander, hot-shoe mounted Speedlight, or remote unit, controlling three small groups for a large zoom range, unique shooting settings, and streamlined controls.
Finally, the auto-detection sensor can identify the color or type of flash filter and adjust the output for the best photographs. The SB-910’s optional water guards keep moisture out of the flash-to-camera interface, and overheating is no longer an issue.
Specifications:
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon |
| Model | SB-910 AF |
| Flash Type | Shoe Mount Flash |
| Guide Number | 34 m / 111.5 ft at ISO 100 (35 mm Zoom Head Setting) |
| Zoom Range | 17-200 mm (14 mm with Wide-Angle Adapter) |
| Bounce Head | Yes, -7 to +90° |
| Swivel Head | Yes, 180° |
| Recycle Time | Approx. 2.5 s with Alkaline Batteries |
| Flash Duration | 1/880 sec. at Full Power |
| Wireless Capability | Yes |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 3.1 x 5.7 x 4.4 in |
| Weight | 14.8 oz |
Pros:
- Excellent functionality and quality
- Easy navigation with a simple menu
- Eliminates the need for plastic filter fittings or color gels
- Fast choose buttons allow for quick triggering and flash exposure modifications
- Can function as a wireless commander, hot-shoe mounted Speedlight, or remote unit
- Auto-detection sensor adjusts output for the best photographs
- Optional water guards keep moisture out of the flash-to-camera interface
- Overheating is no longer an issue
Cons:
- Expensive price may not be suitable for beginners or those on a tight budget
- Heavyweight compared to other flash models
Why should you buy this?
The Nikon SB-910 AF is an excellent investment for professional photographers or enthusiasts looking for high-quality equipment. Its functionality and streamlined controls allow for quick and easy adjustments, while its auto-detection sensor and filter mechanism ensure high-quality photographs. The SB-910’s wireless capabilities and water guards make it a versatile option for outdoor shoots or inclement weather. Overall, the Nikon SB-910 AF is a reliable and top-performing flash that is worth the investment for serious photographers.
Conclusion:
The Nikon SB-910 AF is a top-of-the-line flash that is well-respected in the photography industry for its excellent functionality and quality. While its price tag may be steep, the SB-910 is a solid investment for professional photographers or enthusiasts looking for high-quality equipment. Its streamlined controls and advanced features make it a versatile and reliable option for a variety of shooting scenarios. With the SB-910, you can trust that you will get the perfect shot every time.
Nikon SB 700 AF
The Nikon SB 700 AF is an excellent flash for the Nikon D3200. It is known for its exceptional features and functions, and it is a top choice for photographers. The flash head can rotate 360 degrees and tilt +7 degrees forward, making it versatile for different shooting angles.
The flash’s interface is user-friendly, even for those unfamiliar with Nikon’s menu. It includes a flash diffuser and bounce card for on-the-fly bouncing, making it easy to use in any lighting situation. The wireless commander mode controls up to 2 remote Speedlights or 3 groups if used as a remote flash.
The i-TTL system of the SB-700 makes it more precise and produces crisper images by reducing shadows. It shoots pre-flashes before the main flash to give the camera illumination information. The i-TTL system balances the tiny differences to create a perfectly exposed image.
Unlike the SB-910, the SB-700 uses flash molds instead of gel inserts, making it more convenient for photographers who do not want to use flash filters or lose them during shooting sessions.
The SB-700 flash’s auto-zoom can cover 120 mm lenses, and you can choose between center-weighted portraits, standard, and even illumination using the back slider. It adjusts the flash temperature to prevent overheating and improve recycling.
Overall, the Nikon SB 700 AF is a fantastic flash that produces excellent results with the Nikon D3200.
Product Specs:
| Spec | Description |
|---|---|
| Flash Head | Rotates 360 degrees, tilts +7 degrees forward |
| Interface | User-friendly |
| Wireless Command | Controls up to 2 remote Speedlights or 3 groups |
| i-TTL System | Reduces shadows, shoots pre-flashes for illumination info |
| Flash Molds | Used instead of gel inserts for convenience |
| Auto-Zoom | Covers 120 mm lenses, with center-weighted, standard, and even illumination options |
| Flash Temperature | Adjusts to prevent overheating and improve recycling |
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Wireless commander mode
- i-TTL system reduces shadows
- Uses flash molds instead of gel inserts for convenience
- Auto-zoom covers 120mm lenses
- Adjusts flash temperature to prevent overheating
Cons:
- Doesn’t have as many features as the SB-910
- Can be expensive for some photographers
Why Should You Buy This?
If you are a Nikon D3200 user looking for a high-quality flash with excellent features, the Nikon SB 700 AF is an excellent choice. It is user-friendly, produces excellent results, and has a wireless commander mode for added convenience. The i-TTL system reduces shadows, and the flash molds make it easy to use without having to worry about losing flash filters.
Conclusion:
The Nikon SB 700 AF is an excellent flash for the Nikon D3200. It produces excellent results and has a user-friendly interface. Its wireless commander mode and i-TTL system make it a versatile and convenient tool for photographers. Although it may be expensive for some, it is a great investment for those who want to improve their photography skills.
Yongnuo YN-568EX
The Yongnuo YN-568EX flash is an affordable yet high-quality option for professional photographers. It offers user-friendly controls with straightforward menus, making it easy to adjust settings after a few uses. Its solid construction ensures durability and protects against damage during shipment. The flash includes a diffuser and flash bounce cards, providing practical options for third-party use. It supports Nikon I-TTL, has wireless TTL, and offers off-camera lighting with a 24-105mm auto-zoom range and a 58m guide number at ISO 100 and 105mm. The LCD screens display settings before taking photos, and it uses four AA batteries with two PC sync settings. Overall, the Yongnuo YN-568EX flash is an excellent choice for photographers looking for a cost-effective and reliable flash.
Specs:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | Nikon I-TTL |
| Zoom Range | 24-105mm |
| Guide Number | 58m at ISO 100 and 105mm |
| Sync Modes | Auto-sync and TTL |
| Wireless TTL | Yes |
| Off-camera Lighting | Yes |
| LCD Screens | Yes |
| Power Source | 4 AA batteries |
| PC Sync Settings | 2 |
| Accessories Included | Diffuser and flash bounce cards |
Pros:
- Affordable yet high-quality option for professional photographers
- User-friendly controls and straightforward menus
- Solid construction ensures durability
- Includes diffuser and flash bounce cards for practical third-party use
- Supports Nikon I-TTL, wireless TTL, and off-camera lighting
- LCD screens display settings before taking photos
- Uses four AA batteries with two PC sync settings
Cons:
- May not have as many features as more expensive flashes
- Some photographers may prefer a flash with a longer zoom range
Why should you buy this?
The Yongnuo YN-568EX flash is an excellent option for photographers looking for a reliable and cost-effective flash. It offers user-friendly controls and straightforward menus, making it easy to use after a few adjustments. Its solid construction ensures durability, and the included diffuser and flash bounce cards provide practical options for third-party use. It supports Nikon I-TTL, wireless TTL, and off-camera lighting, making it a versatile choice for different photography styles.
Conclusion:
The Yongnuo YN-568EX flash is a great choice for photographers looking for an affordable yet high-quality option. Its user-friendly controls, solid construction, and practical accessories make it a reliable tool for different photography styles. With its compatibility with Nikon I-TTL, wireless TTL, and off-camera lighting, this flash provides versatility and value for its price.
Neewer 750II TTL
$89.04
Save: 7.04
The Neewer 750II TTL flash offers high performance at an affordable price. Its LCD screen allows easy monitoring and adjustment of settings, making it an excellent tool for photo and video editing. The user interface is simple and fast, making it easy to use, and the transparent LCD panel allows you to observe flash settings easily.
The metal hot shoe avoids warping and allows for easy mounting and unmounting of the flash without damaging your camera. However, the autofocus assist lamp is hit-or-miss and may not work consistently. The flash’s slow recycle time helps minimize overheating, and the easy-to-use interface enables efficient operation. The flash lasts for 30 minutes at full power before requiring new AA batteries, which are cheap and easy to find.
Overall, the Neewer 750II TTL flash is an excellent option for photographers looking for a high-performance flash at an affordable price.
Specs:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | Nikon |
| Guide Number | 58m at ISO 100 and 105mm |
| Zoom Range | 24-105mm |
| Sync Modes | TTL, M, Multi, S1, S2 |
| Wireless TTL | No |
| LCD Screens | Yes |
| Power Source | 4 AA batteries |
| Accessories Included | Flash Diffuser |
Pros:
- High performance at an affordable price
- Simple and fast user interface
- Transparent LCD panel allows easy observation of flash settings
- Metal hot shoe avoids warping and allows for easy mounting and unmounting of the flash
- Slow recycle time helps minimize overheating
- Easy-to-use interface enables efficient operation
- Comes with a flash diffuser
Cons:
- Autofocus assist lamp is hit-or-miss and may not work consistently
- No wireless TTL capability
Why should you buy this?
The Neewer 750II TTL flash is an excellent option for photographers looking for high performance at an affordable price. It has a simple and fast user interface, a transparent LCD panel that allows easy observation of flash settings, and a metal hot shoe that avoids warping. Its slow recycle time helps minimize overheating, and the easy-to-use interface enables efficient operation. While it may not have wireless TTL capability, the flash comes with a diffuser and uses readily available AA batteries, making it a cost-effective and practical choice for photographers.
Conclusion:
The Neewer 750II TTL flash offers high performance at an affordable price. It has a simple and fast user interface, a transparent LCD panel that allows easy observation of flash settings, and a metal hot shoe that avoids warping. While the autofocus assist lamp may not work consistently, the flash’s slow recycle time helps minimize overheating. The easy-to-use interface enables efficient operation, and the flash comes with a diffuser and uses readily available AA batteries. Overall, the Neewer 750II TTL flash is an excellent choice for photographers looking for a high-performance flash at a reasonable price.
Nikon SB 900 AF
$149.95
Save: 349.05
The Nikon SB 900 AF is a powerful and versatile replacement for the Nikon SB 800. It features three illumination patterns for LCDs and has a wide zoom range, making it a fast and efficient flash. Its moving diffuser and light source make it even more flexible, allowing photographers to create a variety of lighting effects.
The SB 900’s automated light detector is a standout feature, as it helps detect the correct color and light distribution pattern for the camera’s sensor. This results in balanced and accurate color reproduction, even when using color filters. Additionally, the SB 900 is designed for high-speed digital capture and consecutive shooting, making it ideal for professional photographers who need a reliable and speedy flash.
The SB 900 is also incredibly versatile, with the ability to bounce by tilting its head 90 degrees and 11 degrees, giving photographers many creative options. Its upgraded booster circuit enables the flash to recycle rechargeable NiMH batteries in just 2.3 seconds, making it an efficient choice for continuous flash operation. The flash automatically detects color filters, allowing the camera to regulate color temperature.
One of the standout features of the SB 900 is its wireless capability. It can be used as a standalone flash or wireless Commander or Slave, and the i-TTL component in this flash offers Advanced Wireless Lighting and up to four flash groups. Nikon’s ADC monitors i-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash, which improves monitor pre-flash and wireless operation over Nikon’s D-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash control, making it a reliable and efficient flash for professionals.
Overall, the Nikon SB 900 AF is an impressive flash that is ideal for professional photographers who need a versatile, reliable, and speedy flash.
Specifications:
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Illumination patterns | 3 |
| Zoom range | Wide |
| Light detector | Automated |
| Color filters | Recognizes incandescent or fluorescent |
| Bounce range | 90 degrees and 11 degrees |
| Battery recycling time | 2.3 seconds |
| Wireless capability | Standalone flash or wireless Commander or Slave |
| Flash groups | Up to 4 |
Pros:
- Three illumination patterns for LCDs
- Automated light detector produces balanced and accurate color reproduction
- Designed for high-speed digital capture and consecutive shooting
- Bounce range of 90 degrees and 11 degrees
- Upgraded booster circuit recycles rechargeable NiMH batteries in just 2.3 seconds
- Wireless capability allows it to be used as a standalone flash or wireless Commander or Slave
- i-TTL component offers Advanced Wireless Lighting and up to four flash groups
Cons:
- May be expensive for hobbyist photographers
- May not be necessary for photographers who don’t require a powerful and versatile flash
Why should you buy this?
If you are a professional photographer who requires a powerful and versatile flash that can handle high-speed digital capture and consecutive shooting, the Nikon SB 900 AF is an excellent choice. Its automated light detector and wireless capability make it a reliable and efficient flash, and its wide zoom range and bounce range give photographers many creative options. However, if you are a hobbyist photographer who doesn’t require such a powerful and versatile flash, it may be too expensive and unnecessary.
Conclusion:
The Nikon SB 900 AF is a powerful and versatile flash that is designed for professional photographers who need a reliable and speedy flash. Its automated light detector, wireless capability, and wide zoom range make it a standout choice for professionals, and its bounce range and upgraded booster circuit give photographers many creative options. While it may be too expensive and unnecessary for hobbyist photographers, it is an excellent investment for professionals who need a reliable and efficient flash.
Nikon SB 600 AF
The Nikon SB-600 is a compact and powerful Speedlight that is designed to work with the Nikon Creative Lighting System. It offers a 30-guide number and can be used as a remote wireless slave flash. The flash boasts a clear LCD and a compact, triangular design that makes it ideal for use with the D3200. The flash has an Auto FP High-Speed Sync feature, which allows for creative Fill-Flash use. It also uses color information to adjust the white balance, making it a popular choice for creative photographers.
Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Guide Number | 30 |
| Flash Range | 0.6m to 20m |
| Recycle Time | 2.5 seconds |
| Flash Control | TTL |
| Wireless Control | Yes |
| Flash Modes | i-TTL, D-TTL, TTL, M |
| Flash Coverage | 24-85mm |
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Uses color information to adjust the white balance.
- Supports Advanced Wireless Lighting and acts as a remote wireless slave flash.
- Auto FP High-Speed Sync feature.
- Easy to use with clear LCD and simple button controls.
- Improves image quality over built-in flash.
Cons:
- Does not have a Master mode like the SB-800.
- Recycle time of 2.5 seconds is slower than some other flash units.
- May not provide enough power for some professional photographers.
Why should you buy this?
The Nikon SB-600 is a great option for photographers looking for an affordable and reliable speedlight that is easy to use with the D3200. It offers wireless control, Auto FP High-Speed Sync, and improved image quality over the built-in flash. While it may not have all the features of more expensive flash units, it provides excellent value for its price point.
Conclusion:
The Nikon SB-600 is a versatile and affordable speedlight that offers many useful features for creative photographers. Its compact design and wireless capabilities make it a popular choice for those who want to experiment with lighting and improve their photography skills. While it may not be the most powerful flash on the market, it provides excellent value and is a great choice for those who want a reliable and easy-to-use flash unit.
How to Choose the Best Flash for Nikon D3200
Choosing the best flash for your Nikon D3200 involves considering several factors specific to your photography needs.
Assessing Your Photography Needs
Determine the type of photography you primarily engage in. Are you into portrait photography, landscape photography, or something else? This will help you identify the features you require in a flash.
Compatibility with Nikon D3200
Ensure the flash is compatible with the Nikon D3200. Look for flashes specifically designed for Nikon cameras to ensure optimal performance and seamless integration.
Flash Power and Features
Consider the flash power and features that align with your photography style. If you frequently shoot in challenging lighting conditions or require advanced lighting control, look for flashes with higher power outputs and features like TTL metering and wireless capabilities.
Budget Considerations
Set a budget range for your flash purchase. While high-end flashes offer advanced features, there are also budget-friendly options available that provide excellent performance for your Nikon D3200.
Conclusion
Investing in the right flash for your Nikon D3200 can greatly enhance your photography experience. By understanding the benefits of using a flash, considering the compatibility, flash power, and features, as well as budget considerations, you can make an informed decision. Choose a flash that suits your photography needs and enjoy capturing stunning images with improved lighting and creative control.
FAQs
1. Can I use any flash with Nikon D3200? While Nikon D3200 is compatible with a wide range of external flashes, it is recommended to choose flashes specifically designed for Nikon cameras to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
2. What are TTL and manual flash modes? TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering mode allows the flash to automatically determine the required amount of light based on the camera’s metering system. Manual flash mode, on the other hand, lets you manually control the flash power.
3. How do I attach a flash to my Nikon D3200? To attach a flash to your Nikon D3200, slide the flash into the hot shoe on top of the camera. Ensure it locks securely in place and establish a connection if the flash supports TTL communication.
4. Can a flash improve my low-light photography? Yes, a flash can significantly improve low-light photography by providing additional light to illuminate the subject and reduce shadows.
5. Are external flashes better than the built-in flash? External flashes offer more power, flexibility, and control compared to the built-in flash. They allow you to adjust the lighting to suit your specific needs and achieve professional-looking results.
