The Nikon D850 is a highly regarded professional-level DSLR camera known for its exceptional image quality and versatile features. To enhance its capabilities further, using an external flash is essential in certain photography scenarios. In this article, we will explore the best flash options available for the Nikon D850 and guide you in choosing the ideal flash for your needs.
Understanding Flash Photography
Before diving into the best flash options, it’s important to understand the significance of flash in photography. Flash provides additional light when shooting in low-light conditions, enhances subject details, and helps eliminate shadows. It is a valuable tool for both indoor and outdoor photography, portrait sessions, and creative lighting techniques.
When it comes to the Nikon D850, there are several types of flashes available, including dedicated speedlights and third-party options. These flashes offer various features and capabilities to cater to different photography styles and requirements.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Flash for Nikon D850
When selecting a flash for your Nikon D850, there are several crucial factors to consider to ensure compatibility and optimal performance:
Compatibility with Nikon D850
First and foremost, ensure that the flash you choose is compatible with the Nikon D850. Nikon’s own speedlights are designed to work seamlessly with their cameras, including the D850. However, many third-party manufacturers also produce flashes compatible with the D850, providing additional options to consider.
Flash Power and Guide Number
The power of a flash is an essential consideration, especially if you frequently shoot in challenging lighting conditions or require a greater distance range. The guide number of a flash indicates its power and ability to illuminate the subject effectively. Higher guide numbers often result in more powerful flashes.
TTL (Through-The-Lens) Metering
TTL metering is a feature that allows the flash to automatically adjust its output based on the camera’s metering system. With TTL, the camera and flash work together to calculate the appropriate amount of light required for a well-exposed image. This feature can simplify the flash usage process and produce consistent results.
Flash Recycling Time
The recycling time of a flash refers to the duration it takes for the flash to recharge after firing. Faster recycling times enable more rapid consecutive shots without delays, which is beneficial for capturing fast-paced action or multiple frames in quick succession.
Wireless Capabilities
Wireless capabilities in a flash allow for off-camera flash setups, providing greater flexibility and creative control over lighting. The ability to trigger the flash remotely and control multiple flashes simultaneously is advantageous for various photography genres, including portraits and studio work.
Top Flash Options for Nikon D850
After considering the essential factors, let’s explore some of the best flash options available for the Nikon D850:
In addition, we provided choices so as to adapt to the various requirements and inclinations of real estate photographers.
1. Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight
You would be able to travel more quickly across interior spaces or exterior locations because of the lightweight handling. Even after you have mounted the flash setup on a tripod, you will still have a great deal of variety in terms of configuring the settings thanks to the adjustable control options and spinning head.
The Nikon D850 features a quick autofocus system. When you combine this feature with the quick recycle time of the SB-700, which is only 2.5 seconds, you won’t need to spend important time when you’re taking images.
Read more: 10 Best Lenses for Nikon D850
2. Godox V860II-S TTL
Even if you shoot with a relatively quick shutter speed, the power output of this Godox flash is still able to compete with the strong light of the sun. You’ll be able to put your full attention into regulating the shooting settings of the D850 thanks to the automatic flash exposure correction and the flash exposure lock.
Even though the V860II-S is most effective when used in the auto mode, it still provides a variety of flash intensities for you to experiment with until you find the one that works best with the settings you’ve chosen for your photography. To put the cherry on top of it all, the device has a low power consumption rate, even when set to auto mode, which allows it to capture images for an extended period of time.
3. Neewer NW561 Flash
It’s possible that some photographers won’t be able to afford the Nikon D850. Because there is no flash already built into the camera, you will need to purchase additional accessories. When it comes to taking photographs of real estate, the Neewer NW561 Flash is a solution that is both affordable and powerful in terms of its light output.
The fact that the NW561 is a slave unit makes it useful in situations in which your D850 does not have a hot shoe. If you switched to this setting, the flash would go off whenever it picked up the light from another Speedlight.
It has a slower recycling time than the SB-700 at 2.9 seconds, although this is still quick enough for shooting stationary scenes like interiors.
4. Yongnuo YN-560 IV
Despite the fact that the Nikon D850 has a large sensor, shooting real estate means confronting the challenge of photographing expansive areas with varying levels of illumination. The YN-560 IV’s high ISO capacity and ability to regulate other flashes allow it to be used effectively as a solution to this issue in conditions with little available light.
It is possible for it to produce brighter photos when it is set to its maximum power, particularly if the flash is bounced on a white wall. In contrast to the SB-700, the YN-560 has the capability of saving your current settings automatically.
5. Yongnuo YN968N
Another third-party flash that works wonderfully with the wide sensor of the Nikon D850 is the Yongnuo YN968N Flash. This flash is made by Yongnuo. You can increase the flash coverage for wide-angle lenses by using the diffuser that pulls out from the unit.
In addition, the D850 features a flash control mode, which allows the light from the flash to enter the camera through the lens using an automatically calculated flash output. This mode is accessible via the mode dial on the top of the camera. You may simply explore at short distances without the need to change settings regularly if you have an exceptional wireless connection, which enables you to do so without any hassle.
The Nikon D850 is a versatile camera that can record both still images and films thanks to its full-frame sensor. You are able to employ a wide range of ISO values by pairing it with the YN968N’s powerful guide number.
6. Godox Thinklite TTL TT685N
Real estate photographers that have more experience would benefit from using the Godox Thinklite TTL TT685N Flash because of its rapid recycling time and high-speed sync. This would enable them to take more photos in a shorter amount of time.
Even though the Nikon D850 has excellent image quality overall, there are times when the sharpness may suffer because of the high ISOs that are required. You can remedy this problem by programming the Godox TT685N to use higher ISO numbers instead, which will significantly cut down on the amount of background noise.
Even though this Godox flash does not have the power of a studio strobe, the transmitter still offers a number of different off-camera flash settings. You can add bounce light to your shots by shooting with a softbox or an umbrella in this manner.
Tips for Using a Flash with Nikon D850
When using a flash with your Nikon D850, consider the following tips to maximize its potential:
- Proper Positioning and Angles: Experiment with different flash positions and angles to achieve the desired lighting effect. Avoid direct, harsh lighting by bouncing the flash off ceilings, walls, or using diffusers.
- Adjusting Flash Settings: Familiarize yourself with the flash settings and controls. Explore options like TTL, manual power settings, and flash exposure compensation to fine-tune the lighting.
- Diffusing the Light: Use diffusers or softboxes to create softer and more flattering light. This helps reduce harsh shadows and creates a more natural-looking illumination.
- Using Flash Modifiers: Explore various flash modifiers such as gels, grids, and snoots to control and shape the light according to your creative vision.
Conclusion
Choosing the best flash for your Nikon D850 can significantly enhance your photography, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. Consider the compatibility, flash power, TTL metering, wireless capabilities, and other factors discussed to make an informed decision. Whether you opt for Nikon’s flagship SB-5000 Speedlight or explore third-party options like the Godox V1, Yongnuo YN685, Nissin Di700A, or Sigma EF-630, you’ll find a suitable flash to elevate your photography experience.
FAQs
Can I use third-party flashes with the Nikon D850?
Yes, many third-party flash options are compatible with the Nikon D850. Just ensure they support Nikon’s TTL system for seamless integration.
Which flash option is best for professional photography?
The Nikon SB-5000 Speedlight and Profoto A1X are excellent choices for professional photographers due to their advanced features, reliability, and build quality.
Do I need multiple flashes for different shooting scenarios?
Multiple flashes can be beneficial for certain lighting setups and creative techniques. However, a single high-quality flash can suffice for most photography needs.
Can I use the built-in flash of the Nikon D850?
Yes, the Nikon D850 has a built-in flash that can be used in certain situations. However, for more advanced lighting control and power, an external flash is recommended.
Are there any budget-friendly flash options available for the Nikon D850?
Yes, the Godox V1, Yongnuo YN685, Nissin Di700A, and Sigma EF-630 are budget-friendly flash options that offer excellent performance and features without breaking the bank.
