What To Know
- The guide number of a flash is a measure of its power and is usually expressed in feet or meters.
- In addition to the built-in flash, the Nikon D90 is compatible with a wide range of external flashes from Nikon’s Speedlight system.
- Reflectors bounce light from an existing source, such as the sun or a lamp, to fill in shadows and create a more even illumination.
The Nikon D90, a beloved DSLR camera among photography enthusiasts, has been a topic of discussion regarding its flash capabilities. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive answer to the question: “Does Nikon D90 have flash?” by exploring its flash features, limitations, and alternative options.
Built-In Flash
Yes, the Nikon D90 does have a built-in flash, also known as a pop-up flash. It is conveniently located on the top of the camera body and can be easily deployed by pressing a button. The built-in flash provides a convenient and quick way to add extra illumination to your shots, especially in low-light situations.
Guide Number
The guide number of a flash is a measure of its power and is usually expressed in feet or meters. The Nikon D90’s built-in flash has a guide number of 12 (meters) at ISO 100. This means that it can effectively illuminate subjects within a range of approximately 12 meters (39 feet) at ISO 100.
Flash Modes
The Nikon D90 offers various flash modes to suit different shooting scenarios:
- Auto: The camera automatically determines the appropriate flash output based on the lighting conditions.
- Manual: You can manually set the flash output power from 1/128 to 1/1.
- Fill-in: This mode adds extra flash illumination to fill in shadows in well-lit scenes.
- Red-eye Reduction: This mode emits a pre-flash to reduce the appearance of red-eye in portraits.
- Slow Sync: This mode allows you to use a slow shutter speed with the flash to capture both ambient light and flash illumination.
External Flash Compatibility
In addition to the built-in flash, the Nikon D90 is compatible with a wide range of external flashes from Nikon’s Speedlight system. External flashes provide greater flexibility and power than the built-in flash, allowing you to achieve more creative and controlled lighting effects.
Flash Limitations
While the Nikon D90’s flash is a useful feature, it has certain limitations:
- Limited Range: The built-in flash has a relatively short range and may not be suitable for illuminating subjects at a distance.
- Harsh Lighting: The built-in flash can produce harsh and direct lighting, which may not be flattering for certain subjects or scenes.
- Slow Recycle Time: After each flash, the camera takes some time to recharge the flash capacitors, which can be a hindrance in fast-paced shooting situations.
Alternative Lighting Options
If the built-in flash does not meet your lighting needs, consider these alternative options:
- External Flashes: As mentioned earlier, the Nikon D90 is compatible with a wide range of external flashes that offer greater power, range, and control.
- Reflectors: Reflectors bounce light from an existing source, such as the sun or a lamp, to fill in shadows and create a more even illumination.
- Continuous Lighting: Using continuous lighting sources, such as LED panels or softboxes, provides constant illumination, allowing for precise control over lighting and eliminating the need for flash.
Takeaways: Expanding Your Lighting Horizons
The Nikon D90’s built-in flash provides a convenient and quick way to add extra illumination to your shots. However, its limitations and the availability of alternative lighting options make it essential to consider your specific lighting needs and explore the possibilities beyond the built-in flash. By understanding the capabilities and limitations of the Nikon D90’s flash, you can make informed decisions and harness the power of light to create stunning images.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I use external flashes with the Nikon D90?
A: Yes, the Nikon D90 is compatible with a wide range of external flashes from Nikon’s Speedlight system.
Q: What is the guide number of the Nikon D90’s built-in flash?
A: 12 (meters) at ISO 100.
Q: How can I reduce the harshness of the built-in flash?
A: Use a diffuser or bounce the flash off a reflective surface to soften the light.
Q: What are some alternative lighting options to the built-in flash?
A: External flashes, reflectors, and continuous lighting sources.
Q: Can I use the flash in manual mode on the Nikon D90?
A: Yes, you can manually set the flash output power from 1/128 to 1/1.
Q: How do I turn off the built-in flash on the Nikon D90?
A: Press the flash pop-up button on the top of the camera body to retract the flash.
