Photography enthusiasts who own a Nikon D5500 know the importance of having the right equipment to capture stunning images in various lighting conditions. While the built-in flash of the D5500 provides some basic lighting support, serious photographers often rely on external flashes for more control and versatility. In this article, we will explore the best flash options available for the Nikon D5500, considering factors such as compatibility, power, TTL functionality, recycle time, size, and weight.
The Nikon D5500 is a popular choice among amateur and professional photographers due to its advanced features, compact design, and affordability. One aspect where the D5500 can benefit from external equipment is in the realm of flash photography. Using an external flash provides more control over lighting conditions, allowing photographers to achieve well-exposed and visually appealing images in any situation.
Before diving into the best flash options for the Nikon D5500, let’s briefly understand the camera itself. The Nikon D5500 is an entry-level DSLR camera that boasts a 24.2-megapixel sensor, an EXPEED 4 image processor, and a versatile ISO range. It features a built-in flash with a guide number of 12 meters at ISO 100, which provides a basic level of lighting support in low-light situations.
Importance of Using a Flash
Using a flash can significantly improve the quality of photographs taken with the Nikon D5500. It helps illuminate subjects in low-light conditions, reduces harsh shadows, and enhances overall image sharpness and clarity. Whether you are capturing portraits, landscapes, or macro shots, a reliable flash can make a noticeable difference in the final results.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Flash for Nikon D5500
When selecting a flash for your Nikon D5500, several factors should be taken into account to ensure compatibility, functionality, and optimal performance.
Compatibility
The first and foremost consideration is compatibility. It is crucial to choose a flash that is specifically designed for Nikon cameras, including the D5500. Compatibility ensures seamless communication between the camera and flash, allowing for accurate exposure metering and TTL functionality.
Power and Range
The power and range of a flash determine its effectiveness in various shooting situations. A flash with a higher guide number provides a more extensive range and allows for greater flexibility when illuminating subjects at a distance. Consider your typical shooting scenarios and select a flash that meets your needs in terms of power and range.
TTL Functionality
TTL (Through The Lens) functionality enables the flash to communicate with the camera and automatically adjust the output based on the camera’s metering. This feature simplifies the process of achieving correct exposures by allowing the camera and flash to work together seamlessly.
Recycle Time
The recycle time of a flash refers to the duration it takes for the flash to recharge between shots. A shorter recycle time allows for faster consecutive shots and reduces the chances of missing important moments. Look for a flash with a quick recycle time to ensure you capture the action without significant delays.
Size and Weight
Considering the D5500’s compact design, it is advisable to choose a flash that is relatively lightweight and portable. A bulky and heavy flash may hinder the camera’s balance and make it less comfortable to handle. Opt for a flash that complements the camera’s size and weight for a better shooting experience.
Top Flash Options for Nikon D5500
Now that we have discussed the important factors to consider, let’s explore some of the top flash options available for the Nikon D5500. It’s important to note that the following options are not listed in any particular order and the best flash for you will depend on your specific requirements and budget.
1. Nikon SB-5000
The flash fits your camera’s hot shoe and is Nikon I-TTL compatible. It may be controlled optically or through radio for a more immersive remote lighting solution.
Its 24-200mm zoom and -7 to 90-degree tilt provide it with excellent versatility. The SB-5000’s cooling system is the first hot shoe-mounted system available. It permits 100 consecutive shots.
The SB-5000’s 420-gram weight makes it perfect for portable photographers. A smaller blueprint allows faster access to zoom head spot, flash mode, and flash compensation amount. It has a quick-access information button. The camera’s radio menu provides quick setting changes.
When utilized with suitable cameras, the SB-5000 can control up to three groups of four remote cameras. It’s perfect as a wireless off-camera remote flash powered by your camera’s flash, the SU-800 Wireless Speedlite Master, or another Speedlite.
Others have called the Nikon SB-5000’s user interface “complex.” Since its inception, better menu systems with more buttons have arisen. It features an On, Off, and Remote switch, so you don’t have to continue changing it.
SB-5000 Flash defaults to TTL. Its Balanced Light option effectively balances ambient light. Menu settings allow High-Speed Sync, which isn’t always easy.
To get High-Speed sync on the Nikon D5500, select FP (focal plane). When you select this option, the camera immediately enters TTL mode with balanced light and High Sync Mode.
2. Yongnuo YN560 IV
The flash features a built-in wireless trigger that lets you use it as a flash controller transmitter and a flash Speedlite. 24-105mm zoom and 190 at ISO 100 and 105m. The built-in angle diffuser adjusts power from 1/1 to 1/28 in 1/3 and 1/2 EV steps.
Off-camera flash can be optically triggered using skip flash or immediate sync. 270-degree rotation allows swivel lighting and entire bounce. The built-in PC sync port boosts stroboscopic lighting.
Yongnuo’s 2.4GHz wireless technology controls the YN560IV manual flash. This flash has 2.4GHz radio and optical wireless control, GN58 power output, and is great for portable lighting.
Yongnuo YN560 IV’s wireless master function controls the flash output, mode, and focal length. The ZOOM button allows electrical zooming between 24-105mm.
Fast recycling and 105mm guide number support an extra power supply. Big LCD screen with LED lighting, energy efficiency, and small/low profile support.
The flash head tilts from -7 to 90 degrees and rotates 270 degrees. The flash optically triggers skip pre-flash or instant sync for off-camera firing. Multi-mode creates stroboscopic effects, while the sync port improves flash communication.
Yongnuo YN560-IV has a 2.4GHz transmitter and receiver. It has a manual flash with RF-602 and RF-603 wireless transmitters for remote flashing.
3. Neewer TT560
Simple controls rotate 270 degrees and tilt 90 degrees. This flash’s biggest feature, considering its price, is its slave mode, which fires automatically when it detects another flash. For many photographers, this is a dealbreaker for low-cost flashes.
Neewer TT560 can be placed on a camera’s hot shoe to manually trigger a flash. Pressing a camera shutter button adjusts the light output. Solid, plastic, but adequate built-in quality. It has simply one switch and four buttons.
Neewer TT560 prioritizes functionality. LED lights to indicate optical 1, optical 2, and manual on a button. – and + buttons control 8 adjustable power settings.
The Neewer TT560 does not support TTL modes or High-Speed Sync, so it cannot automatically balance light levels unless used with master flashes. High-Speed Sync permits high shutter speeds and multiple photos.
It’s S1 and S2 compatible. S1 mode fires when the flash detects light from the master unit, while S2 mode fires when it detects a subsequent flash. This is utilized when the master flash is in TTL mode and uses a pre-flash to capture scene information.
Conclusion
Choosing the best flash for your Nikon D5500 can greatly enhance your photography, allowing you to capture well-exposed and visually appealing images in any lighting situation. Consider the compatibility, power, TTL functionality, recycle time, size, and weight when making your decision. With the right flash, you can unleash your creative potential and take your photography to new heights.
FAQs
Can I use third-party flashes with Nikon D5500?
Yes, you can use third-party flashes with the Nikon D5500. However, it is essential to ensure compatibility before making a purchase. Look for flashes specifically designed for Nikon cameras, including the D5500, to ensure seamless communication and optimal performance.
What is TTL flash and why is it important?
TTL (Through The Lens) flash refers to a technology that allows the camera to communicate with the flash, automatically adjusting the flash output based on the camera’s metering. It measures the light through the lens during exposure, resulting in more accurate and consistent flash exposures. TTL flash is important because it simplifies the process of achieving correct exposures, especially in changing lighting conditions.
How can I avoid red-eye in flash photography?
Red-eye occurs when the flash illuminates the subject’s eyes directly, causing the reflection of light from the retina. To avoid red-eye in flash photography, you can follow these tips:
- Use the red-eye reduction feature available on many cameras and flashes.
- Increase the ambient light in the room to minimize the dilation of the subject’s pupils.
- Position the flash off-camera or use bounce techniques to diffuse the light.
- Ask the subject to look slightly away from the camera to reduce the chances of direct flash hitting their eyes.
Do I need a flash for outdoor photography?
While natural light is abundant in outdoor photography, there are situations where a flash can be beneficial. A flash can help fill in shadows, balance the exposure in high-contrast scenes, and add catchlights to the subject’s eyes. Additionally, using a flash outdoors can help freeze motion and add creative lighting effects. However, the necessity of a flash depends on your specific shooting style and the lighting conditions you encounter.
Can I use wireless triggers with Nikon D5500?
Yes, you can use wireless triggers with the Nikon D5500 to trigger off-camera flashes. Wireless triggers provide the convenience of remotely triggering the flash units without the need for physical connections. There are various wireless trigger systems available in the market that are compatible with the D5500. Make sure to choose triggers that are compatible with Nikon’s TTL system for seamless communication and advanced functionality.
