Nikon/Canon compatability

[magirus]

Hi there. A simple question. I am considering buying a flash for my Canon 40D, and have had an offer of a Nikon SB-600 Speedlight on loan for a play around to see if I really want/need a one. So will the flash function correctly with my camera? Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[redhed17]

I'm assuming that you can use any flash on any camera. That said, they would act a 'dumb' flash, not being able to use any through the lens interactive metering systems with the flash. Nikon flash units have pins on the base which match up with Nikon cameras to allow them to communicate with each other to maximum effect.

So a Nikon camera gets extra features with a Nikon flash, and a Canon camera works better with a Canon flash etc.

You may also be able to use some flash models wirelessy with certain cameras, depending on same manufacturer, camera/flash combinations.

 

[specialman]

If you intend to use the SB600 on the hotshoe of the Canon then don't - it won't work properly.

However, you can use it via a PC sync cord (or via a wireless system) to fire the flash in manual mode. That means you have to set the flash to manual (the power output) so you won't get proper TTL meter readings. It's basically a scaled down studio set-up.

What you need is one of these because your 40D doesn't have a built-in PC sync socket (this fit on the 40D's hotshoe) and a cable like this that then connects to the flash here.

Turn the flash on, set it to MANUAL (pressing he mode button) and take a test shot. you may be best fof setting the camera to manual too to select your aperture and shutter speed values. Then, once you've got a test shot, you can play around with settings until you get the exposure you like.

I've used Canon flashes in the past like this on my Nikon and it works fine.

Alternatively, you can buy some cheap optical/wireless triggers like these (the flash has to be in manual still) and these allow you to place the flash many metres away wihtout cords getting in the way. The Cactus ones seem quite popular on here but you can picck up like products off ebay too.