Which mode to use to setup SB900 with Umbrella?

[Eyad]

Hi All,

I'm trying to setup my SB900 to work with reflector/ shoot through umbrellas... But i'm still new to flash usage in a professional way.

What mode I shall setup for reflective umbrella shot? any specific points I should note?

Also will it be the same for using it with the shoot-through umbrella?

I'm trying to associate it with a wireless flash trigger... is it a must to use a TTL trigger? I found many in the market but they just trigger manual modes and Auto. will that be ok?

Too many questions but I know that people will take their time to answer it...

Thanks in advance!

[OsmosisStudios]

You can use wireless triggers in manual mode if your comfortable using Manual mode on the flash. If you use the CLS function in the D700 (using the pop-up as a commander), you set the flash to "remote" and CLS.

[Eyad]

Originally Posted by OsmosisStudios

You can use wireless triggers in manual mode if your comfortable using Manual mode on the flash. If you use the CLS function in the D700 (using the pop-up as a commander), you set the flash to "remote" and CLS.

So with umbrellas we don't use TTL? I switch only to manual?

What about the power, shall it be full flash power or I must try shooting and adjusting?

Any other settings I should consider?

[OsmosisStudios]

You can try TTL, but from my experience it's usually underexposed by about 1 stop, sometimes more. You're better off with manual.

To get the right light your best bet, especially for learning, is to start full-power and then see what it gives you. 99% of the time it'll be FAR too strong, so you'll know where to start. Just try a few different settings to get it right.

[GadgetRick]

I'd also suggest giving Alien Bee a call. Their service is fantastic.

[wannabephotographer]

Originally Posted by GadgetRick

I'd also suggest giving Alien Bee a call. Their service is fantastic.

Why? He has Nikon's top of the line flash already. To the OP, I use TTL only when my flash is on my camera, usually when I am shooting events. Otherwise I use my mix of SB900s and 600s manually off camera when shooting products and portraits.

[mrdale]

I use TTL with umbrellas and SB-800. For me its easier to adjust flash compensation from the camera rather than having to go to the strobe to make adjustments. In manual you can decrease power from the camera but you cannot add power. In TTL mode you can go to +3 with the camera in commander mode. Try both ways and see what works for you.

dale

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by mrdale

I use TTL with umbrellas and SB-800. For me its easier to adjust flash compensation from the camera rather than having to go to the strobe to make adjustments. In manual you can decrease power from the camera but you cannot add power. In TTL mode you can go to +3 with the camera in commander mode. Try both ways and see what works for you.

dale

Have you used Manual with SB units? It's done the exact same way as flash compensation in TTL mode: you just set power levels instead of compensation.

[wannabephotographer]

Originally Posted by OsmosisStudios

Have you used Manual with SB units? It's done the exact same way as flash compensation in TTL mode: you just set power levels instead of compensation.

+1 Correct.

[mrdale]

With the SB set to remote and the camera set to commander and manual for group A the option is 1/1 and decreases from there. How are you adjusting ?