The Nikon SB-29S is one of my favorite flash units. If you do close-up photography with a pre-F6 Nikon film camera, you should have this flash or the earlier SB-29. The latest Nikon close-up system, the R1C1, can be used on older cameras, but will cost over $700, plus you need the special (extra cost) close-up cables. A used SB-29S can be had for about $200-$300, depending on condition and whether all the accessories are include (a case and three adapter rings, 52mm, 62mm and 72mm). For use on current Nikon digital cameras (I use a D700), the SB-29S still works very well. The TTL flash function does not work with digital cameras, but that is not as big a problem as you may think. You just set the camera to manual, determine the appoximate reproduction ratio and set the aperture accordingly. With a digital camera, you know right away if you need to adjust the aperture setting. The older SB-29 is missing the very useful manual 1/32 setting. Any macro flash that attaches to the filter ring of a lens should preferably only be used with lenses that have non-rotating filter rings. If the filter ring rotates, manually focus the lens.Read full review
I was looking for a macro flash that would sync with my Nikon, D80, dslr camera. The aftermarket LED units are good but do not have the power of the strobe tubes. The older SB-29 does not have the 1/32 setting and the newer Nikon macro flash is costly. The SB-29s works great and has the 1/32 setting. The only problem I had was the difficulty locating the mounting adapters. A generic lens adapter ring worked until I found the Nikon adapter made for the SB-29s. I use the flash for close-up forensic evidence photography.
I love everything about this flash. I bought it because the SB-29 is not as suited for digital photography and the R1C1 kit is too expensive. The SB-29s is perfect for me - I shoot with a D90 and Nikon 60mm f2.8 macro at f57. Very good shots and if you know how to use your camera well, the lack of TTL metering with digital cameras shouldn't be a problem.
Great Macro Flash
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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