Nikon SU-800

[specialman]

I'm currently using skyports to trigger flashes. While it's a good system, it's a full-manual system so has its limitations at times.

I'm considering getting an SU-800 to trigger the two SB-800s I have (ands then buy a couple more '800s to replace my non-CLS units). What are people's experiences of the SU-800 as a main commander?

I can imagine that in the confines of a studio it works great but when shooting outdoors, especially in sunlight, is it as good as radio triggers? Ill be keeping my skyports for long-range stuff but for working within, say 20ft (maximum), the benefits of CLS seem too good to overlook - what do you guys reckon?...

 

[Kris]

SB800's can be either master or slave, cant it?

You currently have the capability to answer your own questions. Use one sb800 as master and the other as slave and go outside.

The benefit of the su800 is that it frees up a gun, is lighter, does not have visible pre-fire, etc.

Personally, I prefer to use a 580exII as master on the top of the camera to give me a little fill light, rather than Canons own STE2.

 

[Ozei]

Pat - the SU800 works fine indoors with SB800/600/900, very easy to control individual guns/groups. Mine will even trigger a gun in a different room, although that might be due to bouncing off ceilings/walls. It works outside too but it certainly doesn't have the range of a radio trigger - IMO though it's worth buying one just to get the CLS capability. The only snag is it uses CR123 batteries so you'll need another charger (unless you've already got one of course).

 

[nickshek]

I've had no problems using my SU800 indoors as the IR beam can bounce of walls so maintaining line of sight isn't that much of an issue. Obviously not the case when using it outdoors, so you have to be more accurate with your positioning.

I had my SB900's triggering reliably at about 30 feet. I've not tested it at longer distances yet. IIRC, an SU800 can control an extra channel over an SB8/900 so that might be worth considering.