New Nikon SB-900 Speedlight Promises Enhanced Power and Versatility

July 1, 2008 – Nikon today introduced its SB-900 Speedlight, offering higher light output, wider zoom range coverage and more advanced light-pattern control than its predecessor, the SB-800, which will be dropped from the product line.

The new flash, scheduled to ship in August for $499.95, offers three selectable light patterns: center-weighted, standard (same as the existing SB-800) and even, which is supposed to provide wide, even coverage tailored for group photography. Light output increases to 47ft./157.5m. at ISO 200. The SB-900 has the ability to move the flash tube and reflector system independently, allowing the system to tailor the light pattern to match the subject.

Another innovative feature of the new flash is the option to upgrade the unit's firmware. Users will download available upgrades to a computer, store it on a memory card, and install the upgrade by placing the card into a camera connected to the flash.

Bounce and swivel flexibility is enhanced, ranging from 90 degrees upward tilt to 11 degrees down, and 180 degrees horizontally. The auto focus assist beam has also been expanded, covering a 20-105mm range that encompasses the entire 51 focal-point range for D3, D700 and D300 shooters.

Another intriguing feature of the new flash is a temperature sensor that will automatically shut down the system if rapid-fire shooting threatens to damage the unit. This feature can be defeated through a menu selection by paparazzi willing to sacrifice their expensive flash for one more shot of Brad and Angelina.

Nikon's claimed recharge times are impressive, clocking in at 4.0 seconds with four standard alkaline AA batteries, and dropping to 2.3 seconds when using rechargeable NiMH cells.

The SB-900 will ship with a table stand, bounce adapter, color filter holder, intelligent color filter kit (the holder can identify the filter automatically when it's inserted), a diffuser dome and soft case. An additional battery pack, the SD9 ($230.00), which cuts flash cycle time down to one second, will also be available.

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