Nikon NIKONOS Speedlight ·58-104
FOREWORD Thank you for purchasing the Nikonos Speedlight S8-1 04 . This Speedlight is specially designed for underwater photography and can be used with the Nikonos RS, as well as the Nikonos V and Nikonos IVA When used with the Nikonos RS, it will allow you to take flash pictures at depths of up to 100 meters (328 feet) .
Speedlight Parts Buckle Buckle lock Moisture alert light Function selector Switch · Flash mode selector 'For more details on the above items, see pages 21 - 22 .
Distance scale chart Aperture scale chart Aperture scale chart release lever Screw securing distance scale chart Joint leg Joint hole Sync socket Sync socket cap Standby switch Battery positioning axis Battery chamber Buckle hook Battery positioning notch Battery chamber cap Hinge Terminal 4
Wrist joint Flash head positioning index Sync cord Plug locking ring Sync cord Stopper pin Arm Grip Shoulder joint release button Shoulder joint lock Front positioning index Standard bracket Front Shoulder joint Bracket knob Camera mounting knob Cord fastening hanger Standard accessories (S8-104 standard set) -Standard arm and bracket set SK-104 -Sync cord (with cap) -O-ring grease and screws set 5
Main Features • Matrix Balanced Fill· Flash Photography (Nikonos RS only) Brightness of flash exposure on the foreground subject is automatically balanced with the ambient light of the background. • Camera Slave (Nikonos RS only) Cordless remote photography. The Nikonos R8's shutter release is triggered when the 8B·104's built·in slave sensor detects the flash from another speedlight. • Flash Slave The 8B·104 fires simultaneously when another speed light is fired through its built·in slave sensor.
This Instruction Manual has been organized as follows for easy reference. Use this guide to learn how to make the most of your Speedlight's potential. .---- Preparations for Taking Pictures Here we explain how to get the Speedlight ready for taking pictures. ~ Basic Shooting/ Taking Pictures In these sections the fundamentals of flash photography with the Nikonos RS, V and IV·A, and the procedures for taking pictures using the S8-104 are explained. Ir .
Foreword ......... . ......... .. . . .. . ............. 2 Speedlight Parts . . . .... 3-5 Main Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 About this Manual . . . . . . . ..... ... ....... ...... 7 Tips on Speedlight Care .. .. .... . ............ . ..... 10 Checking O-rings .... . . . ......... . . .. . . . . . . ...... 11 Removing and Reseating O-rings . ... .. .. .. .. . , ...... 12 Preparations for Taking Pictures . .. .. .. . .. 14-22 Installing the Battery . . .
Basic Applications ... .......... Basic Tips on Underwater Flash Photography Camera Slave (Cordless Remote Photography) Flash Slave . . . . . . . . . . . ............ Rear-Curtain Sync Photography .. . . ... . . .. Using the Flash Signal Function ....... . ... Other Items .... . . . 45-54 ...... . . . 46 . . _ ... . .. 48 . . . . . . . . . 50 .. . . . .. .. 52 . . . .. .. .. 54 . ... . .......... Optional Accessories . . . . Details on NiCd Battery Unit SN-104 Tips on SB-104 Care . . . .
Tips on Speedlight Care Be sure to take trial shots first . . . -When taking important photographs with the SB-104 or using it again after a long period of disuse, be sure to take one or more trial shots first to be sure it is working properly. Have Nikon spot check your Speedlight regularly . . .
Checking O-rings • Be sure to check the O-rings before use. This Speedlight uses O-rings to ensure that it is well sealed and water-proofed. If dust or damage is found on the O-rings , water will leak into the Speedlight and cause damage. It is important to check all the O-rings and lubricate them before use. • O-ring areas to check - Two O-rings on sync cord ·~H.
Removing and Reseating O-rings Remove the O-rings from the ir 1channels. -Use a thin plastic card, such as the S8-104's exposure calcu lation chart , to remove O-rings. - Do not use metal items with sharp edges that may damage the O-rings. 2 Check the O-ri ngs to be su re they are not damaged. - Wipe the O-rings and O-ring channels with a clean cloth or tissue, and check them for any damage. -Do not use a cloth or tissue which contains lint.
4 Reseat the O-ring into their channels. -Do not stretch the O-rings too much . Be sure that the O-rings are not warped and they go into the channel correctly. +Note The 8B -104 package includes an O-ring set (three large and small O-rings, O-ring lubricant, and two screws). The O-ring set is also available optionally. Be sure to have this set with you wherever you go with your 8peedlight.
• Important . Only the NiCd battery unit SN-104 can be used with this Speedlight. Do not use any other type of battery. • Be sure to turn OFF the power of the SB-104 when replacing the battery. • Be sure to recharge the SN-104 battery when using it for the first time or after having stored it for three months or more. -For procedures on recharging the SN-104, refer to the Instruction Manual that came with the Quick Charger SH-104 . • Refer to page 62 for details on the battery.
3 Open the battery chamber cap by lifting it up. 4 Load the battery. Insert the NiCd battery unit SN-104 into the battery chamber securely, aligning the battery positioning notch with the battery lock release lever (orange). -The cover may be hard to open if the O·ring isn 't properly lubricated. In this case, the O-ring should be relubricated. (See page 12.) -Slide the battery lock release lever (orange) in the direction of the arrow ( ~ ) to remove the battery. 5 Raise the buckle.
Connecting the S8-104 to the Camera and Making Settings • Important . Be sure to turn OFF the power to the camera and the 8B-104 before attaching the 8peedlight . • Check the a -rings and apply a small amount of lubricant when attaching the connector plugs. Attach the bracket to the camera at camera mounting knob. 1the 2 Remove the wrist joint adjustment knob and insert the Speedlight joint leg. -Make sure that the shoulder joint release button and the flash head turn to the same direction.
4 Remove the sync socket cap on the camera. -The cap can be removed by using a coin to turn it counter·clockwise. Insert the camera plug and fasten white locking ring. 5the - Align the red mark on the plug to the red mark on the camera. the plug locking ring clockwise 6Turn until it stops and is secured. 7Remove the sync socket cap on the S8-104. - Turn the cap counter-clockwise until it separates.
8 Insert the Speed light plug and fasten the black locking ring. -Align the guide marks on the plug and the 88·104 . the shoulder jOint adjustment 9ofTurn knob on the bracket in the direction the arrow to fasten the shoulder joint. -Align it with the white positioning index on the front. 10 Insert the arm. -Release the shoulder joint lock and align the arm with the white positioning index on the front of the joint.
e Caution _ Be sure the shoulder joint is locked when gripping the arm to carry the camera and 8peedlight after making settings. If it is not locked, the camera may fall off when the release button is pressed. -W hen releasing the arm from the bracket, undo the lock of the shoulder joint first before pressing the release button . 12 Check to be sure the Speed light is facing forward and the correct shooting distance has been set.
Function Selector The Function Selector is used in the ways described below. C!l Standard flash photography 8tandard flash photography is possible except for the following modes. The following functions are also possible by sliding the selector from ~ to 11l . L ..~ ~ r( liD'Sn U!) (i) [)\ ~ . W(,,~ J .!) ~ Test firing The 88-104 's flash can be tested . -Useful for test firing the flash before taking pictures.
Flash Mode Selector The Flash Mode Selector is used in the ways described below. I ~ .. ~6~ MFULL M1/4 M1I16 im on TTL flash mode When the 88-104 is used with the Nikonos R8, matrix balanced fill-flash mode and center-weighted TIL flash mode are both possible. When used with the Nikonos V, center-weighted TIL flash mode is possible.
I Basic Flash Photography with the Nikonos RS Flash photography with matrix balanced fill-flash operation in combination with the Nikonos RS and the SB-104 will be explained in this section. Set exposure mode to Aperture-Priority Auto Exposure (A). In matrix balanced fill-flash operation , the camera automatically balances the flash brightness in both the background and the main subject.
2 Set the camera's sync mode to any desired mode. -When the sync mode switch is set to "Normal ", the shutter speed is controlled between 1/125 and 1/30 second. When it is set to " Rear ", the shutter speed is controlled between 1/125 and 1 second. The Speed light's function selector is set to "Standard ." 3 o 4 The Speedlight's flash mode selector is set to TIL. • L..rt' n"" ~(J~D ",FULL 101114 1011/ 16 5 Power switch is ON . • ~ ....rt' j) po / ...... "''''RI'IRlilifi \ fl"" .
6 Set the focus mode on the Nikonos RS to "S" or "C". 7 Set exposure mode to aperturepriority auto exposure (A). -All focus modes can be used. However, Nikon recommends using "5" (single servo autofoc us) or " C" (continuous servo autofocus) mode. 26 -Set the aperture value so that the subject distance is within the flash shooting distance range.
8 Pressing the shutter release button slightly Check the flash shooting distance range and be sure the ready-light and the (e) in-focus indicator are lit up. -If the electron ic analog display appears, the operation is controlled by center· weighted TTL flash .
I 28
The settings and shooting techniques that are possible with the 88-104 vary according to the camera used. Follow the procedures below. . -See page 46 for basic tips on underwater flash photography.
a possible shooting mode, 1Select and set the S8-104 and the camera. 2 Press the shutter release button slightly. 3 Confirm the flash shooting distance range and check to be sure that the ready-light and the (e) in-focus indicator are lit up to shoot. -If both viewfinder ready-light and 88-104 ready-light blink for about three seconds after shooting, the flash has operated at maximum power. -In this case, either reduce the object distance, or select a smaller f-number. AI[! 30 SOrS.
Possible Shooting Modes wHh the S8-104 and Nikonos V I Possible shooting modes Center·weighted TTL flash (*5) 58·104 settings Nikonos V settings Standby switch (*1) Function selector (*2) Flash mode selector ON Standard TTL ON Standard MFull M1/4 M1/16 Manual (*6) Shutter dial (*3) "A". 1/1000-1/30 sec. "A". 1/1000-1/30 sec.
a possible shooting mode, 1 Select and set the S8·104 and the camera. 2 Check the flash shooting distance range and to be sure that the ready· light is lit up to shoot. - If both viewfi nder ready-light and 8 8 -104 ready- light blink for about three seconds after shooting , the flash has operated at maximum power. -In this case, either reduce the object distance, or select a smaller f-number. I ...
S8·104 settings Possible shooting modes Nikonos IV·A settings Shutter Standby Function Flash selector mode dial switch (*2) selector (*1) Manual Full 1/4 M 1/16 M OFF Standard M A, M (1/90 sec.), B Lens Lens aperture distance scale value (*3) Desired value Distance to subject *1 When setting the flash mode selector, select a guide number (M Full, M 1/4, or M 1/16) so that the actual shooting distance corresponds to that of the exposure calculation chart (see page 41).
Caring for the 88-104 After Use Wash the Speedlight with fresh water. .. If the 88-104 8peedlight is stored without having been washed after use under water (especially in seawater), salt and other foreign matter will stick to its parts, possibly causing corrosion or operation failures. With the 8peedlight's cap closed , wash the 8peedlight thoroug hly with fresh water (do not use hot water).
Be sure that all water has been removed . .. Several days are required for all water to dry from below the rubber cover. Keep in mind that water may still remain in hard-to-reach areas even after the surface has dried. Disconnect the sync cord from the socket and attach the cap . . . Salt and other foreign matter will remain on the sync cord and the socket if the cord is not disconnected. After washing and drying the Speedlight, remove the plug and remove all the salt.
I 36
Standby Swnch When the Speedlight is used with the Nikonos RS or Nikonos V, turning ON the standby switch inside the battery chamber will help conserve battery power. (STBY ] OFF CiJ ON When the Standby switch is ON . .. The power of the 88-104 is turned OFF automatically when the flash is not operated for about 80 seconds after the 88-104 's power switch is turned ON . -The 88-1 04's ready-light goes out.
I When the Standby switch is OFF. .. When using the S8-104 with the Nikonos RS or V, if the S8-104 's power switch is turned ON , the power required for one manual full flash output is consumed in about 10 minutes without the flash being fired . The battery will thus be used up in about 20 hours without the flash being fired unless the standby switch is turned ON . - Caution e The standby function does not work in Flash Slave mode. e The standby function does not work with the Nikonos IV-A.
Alert Signal A warning is indicated when any of the lamps in the illustration starts blinking. Look up the cause of the problem below and follow the procedures given to fix it. Ready-light blinks. If the exposure is not sufficient when the flash is fired at fu ll output, the 8 8-1 04's ready-light blinks for about three seconds to alert you immediately after the flash is fired in TTL mode. (The ready-light in the viewfinder will also blink.
Heat alert light blinks. When the interior of the 88-104 overheats due to successive firing of the flash or other factors, the heat alert light blinks. Operation of the 88-104 stops automatically. - The flash can be used again after it has cooled down and the lamp has stopped blinking . Electrical alert light blinks. If one or both flash tubes did not fire, the electrical alert light blinks to alert you . -Bring the Speedlight to a Nikon service center to have it checked.
Reading the Exposure Calculation Chart The 88-104 comes with one flash shooting distance scale chart and three aperture scale charts -~r-'r (by film speeds). Distance scale- - - IH -- +ltt---tI11 .......,.,,.
I Objects underwater appear closer than they actually are. For instance, if the estimated camera-tosubject distance underwater is 1 meter (3.3 feet), the actual distance is 1.33 meters (4.3 feet). The distance scales on the exposure calculation chart and lenses are marked by estimated distances underwater. When you estimate the distance, read the flash shooting distance range from the chart directly. In TTL flash mode Read the flash shooting distance range in the "M Full" column on the left of the scale.
In manual flash mode The scales from the left indicate "M Full ," " M 1/4," and "M 1/16. " For example, when shooting a subject underwater at an estimated 0.5 meter (1.6 feet) using ISO 100 film, the appropriate flstop at "M Full " is f/22 , at "M 1/4" is f/11, and at "M 1/16" is f/5 .6 . 150100 • Important In manual mode, set the guide number (M Full, 1/4, or M 1/16) corresponding to the aperture value selected.
I In manual mode. you can determine the correct flstop using the following equation : flstop = __-"g_ui_d_e _n_um_ b_er_ _ flash-to-subject distance See table below for the guide number at various film speed. m (ft) Guide number at various film speed Light output Underwater shooting 18025 50 64 100 12 (39) 16 (53) 200 400 800 1000 22 (72) 32 (105) 45 (148) 50 (164) M Full 8 (26) 11 (36) M 1/4 4 (13) 5.6 (18) 6 (20) 8 (26) M 1/16 2 (7) 2.8 (9) 3 (10) 4 (13) 5.
Basic Tips on Underwater Flash Photography The basic aspects of underwater flash photography will be reviewed in this section. The Role of the Speedlight . .. The primary purpose of the Speedlight underwater is to accurately reproduce the subject 's colors. At a depth of three meters (10 feet), the red content of the subject will begin to be absorbed by the water, resulting in a photograph strong in blue content.
When shooting brightly shining fish .. . If the Speedlight is aimed at shiny silver fish from the front, correct exposure will be hard to obtain because of the bright light reflected from the fish . To shoot this sort of subject, remove the arm from the bracket, hold the Speedlight as far away from the camera as possible, and aim the Speedlight at the subject diagonally. When sand has been stirred up in the water . . .
I Camera Slave (Cordless Remote Photography) When used with the Nikonos RS, the S8-104 can release the camera's shutter upon being activated from a remote location by another Speedlight. The S8-104 detects the remote flash with its built-in slave sensor, fires its flash and releases the camera's shutter simultaneously. This is useful when you want to photograph hard-toapproach or shy subject. '~I \ .~ / \ \/ j ~\ .? \ / I . Important Use Speedlight S8·104 or S8·102 as the flash activating unit.
3 Turn ON the 88-104's power switch , and check to be sure that the readylight is lit. L..rtJ nil" o ~ (JeJtfj) ...FULl "M4 ",1/ 16 _ ~ 4 .. ., oom·i iJ6D~ OFFOlJiV • The shutter is released each time another speedlight fires, and the 88-104 mounted on the camera also fires at the preset mode. e Caution If there are other people in the area firing a speedlight, it may cause your Speedlight to fire also. I +Notes .
I Flash Slave I ./ The 8B-104 can be used as a flash ~¥ slave without releasing the camera 's ./;7 shutter. When it senses the light from a master flash , it fires simulta\ . / neously, providing additional light for \ / / exposing the photograph . Because these 8peedlights are not connected / \ / \ I by a cord, more than two can be ~ used to create special lighting effects. II] \v / • Important An S8-104, S8-101 , S8-102, or S8-103 can be used as a flash activating unit.
3 Turn ON the power sw itches on both Speed lights, and be sure the ready-li ghts are li t. o ~·i OFFOW G> 4 Release the shutter on the camera. -When the Speed light (connected to the camera) fires , the another Speedlight (SB·104) will fire simultaneously. e Caution e lf there are other people in the area firing a Speedlight, it may cause your slave unit to fire also. e The slave unit normally fires only when it senses a sudden burst of light.
I Rear-Curtain Sync Photography When ambient light conditions are low and you wish to produce creative exposures by highlighting the movement of subjects at a slow shutter speed, you can use the rear-curtain sync feature on the Nikonos R8. The 88-104 will then synchronize with the closing of the shutter producing a natural stream of light behind the subject. • Important Rear-curtain sync photography is possible with the Nikonos RS.
3 Set the f/stop and shutter speed on the camera. -The Shutter Dial can be set to either "A," 1/125-1 second, or "B," but a shutter speed of 1/60 second or slower is most effective for rear·curtain sync photography. -Set the Focus mode to any desired position. e Caution When using rear-curtain sync flash in Aperture·Priority Auto Exposure (A) mode, the shutter speed will automatically set itself to between 1/125-1 second (standard operation is between 1/125-1/30 second).
I Using the Flash Signal Function The flash signal function serves to indicate your position in the sea w hen resurfacing from under water. 1Turn ON the S8-104's power sw itch. 2 Slide the function selector to the Test position ~ and hold it down for about fou r seconds. -From the second firing , the flash will repeat firing at 1/32 output about every two seconds. - A fullY'charged NiCd battery will let the 8B·104 continue firing in this mode about 3000 times (about one and a half hours).
I Optional Accessories Extension Arm SK·104E Used for extending the length of the standard arm (SK-104A). Especially useful for obtaining special lighting effects for close-up photography or for distancing the axis of the lens from the Speedlight by stretching the arm. Weight: Approx. 332g (11 .7 oz) (on land) Approx. 180g (6.
3 Pull out the stopper pin at the lower end of the extension arm. 4 Insert the lower end of the extension arm (protruding portion) into the hole by aligning it to the notch at the end of the standard arm (SK-104A), and secure it by reinserting the pin.
Arm 5K·104C for 5peedlights 58·102, 58·103 Use the arm (SK-104C) to secure the SB-102 or SB-103 to the standard bracket or double bracket. When connecting the SB-103, use a wide adaptor to adjust the shooting angle and flash angle. Arm positioning screw Weight: Approx. 250g (8.8 oz) (on land) Approx. 80g (2.
Double Bracket SK·104W The double bracket (8K-104W) is used when attaching two 8peedlights - 88-104, 88-102, or 88-103 - to the camera for enhanced flash illumination. Light can be aimed from both the left and right sides to eliminate shadowed areas on the subject for close-up photography. Shoulder joint Weight : Approx. 730g (25.8 oz) (on land) Approx . 430g (15.
Double Sync Cord SC·100 The Double Sync Cord lets you use two Speedlights for TTL flash (matrix balanced fill-flash , centerweighted TTL flash) operation, -Manual flash mode only is available when used with the Nikonos IV-A connected. Sync (black) e Caution e The combined guide number for two 8peedlights firing in the same direction can be calculated as follows: Combined GN = .J(GN1 )' + (GN2)' where GN1 and GN2 represent the guide numbers of each 8peedlight used.
NiCd Battery Unit SN·104 The SN-104 is a rechargeable NiCd battery designed exclusively for the S8-104. A fresh, fully-charged SN-104 can fire approximately 120 times at manual full power output. Weight: Approx . 370g (13.1 oz) Quick Charger SH·104 The SH-104 is used exclusively to recharge the NiCd battery unit SN-104. Full charging takes about two hours for one battery unit (four hours for two units). Weight: Approx. 600g (21 .
Details on NiCd Battery Unit SN-104 Generally speaking, battery power weakens as the temperature drops, and power drains off slowly when not used for a long time. Please note the following points when using the NiCd battery: Notes on using the NiCd battery eBe sure to recharge the NiCd battery unit 8N -104 when using it for the first time or after having not used it for over three months. eOvercharging or excessive running of the battery shortens overall battery life.
Tips on carrying and storing the SN·104 e Be sure that the SN-104 is not subject to shock or moisture, as it cannot be disassembled for repair. Keep the SN-104 in its protective case whenever not being used. e lf water or moisture gets inside the SN-104 's plastic case, the SN-104 can no longer be used because the water can react with battery chemicals to produce flammable gases. e Do not carry or store the battery in the same case as wet underwater equipment (speedlights, cameras, diving gear, etc).
I Tips on 88-104 Care Notes of Caution Do not subject the Speed light to vibrations or shock. Strong vibrations or shock may cause damage to delicately-adjusted parts. If you accidentally drop the Speedlight, take it to a Nikon service center to be checked for damage, although no damage may be found by a simple visual inspection. Do not jump into the water while holding the Speedlight.
Take care not to splash water into the battery chamber or onto the Nied batteries. When changing batteries, be sure not to accidentally splash water into the battery chamber or onto the NiCd battery unit SN-104. If water has been splashed, wipe it away immediately. Nikon recommends keeping the batteries in the plastic case provided until they are needed. If a lot of water enters the battery chamber, the moisture alert light will light up and the Speedlight will stop working.
Carrying the 58·104 When transporting the 58·104 . .. Do not put the 88-104 into the same bag as the NiCd battery unit 8N-104 or 8H-104 charger. Water from below the rubber parts of the 88-104 may cause damage to these items. Do not subject the 5peedlight to vibrations or shock. When carrying the 88-104 in the car or in the boat, insert the 8peedlight and other equipment into bags to prevent them from bumping each other, or fill the gaps with a towel to absorb vibrations or shock . ......................
Safekeeping the S8·104 Remove the NiCd battery. If the Speedlight will not be used for a long time, remove the battery from it. If the battery leaks, flammable gas may be produced inside the battery chamber which is very dangerous. If that happens, do not use the Speedlight and take it to a Nikon service center. When storing the 58·104 . .. Store the Speedlight in a cool, dry place to prevent mold from growing on it.
Specifications Electronic construction Usable exposure mode Guide number Angle of coverage Flash shooting distance range Usable film speed range in TTL mode (ASAIISO 100) Number of flashes (at full output) Recycling time (at full output) Water resistance Power source Power standby switch Flash mode selector Function selector Alert Indicators Exposure calculation chart Flash duration Dimensions (diam.
Accessories (provided) Standard arm (SK-104A), standard bracket (SK-104B), sync cord (with cap), O-ring set (three O-rings, O-ring lubricant, and two screws) Note: All performance data are subject to change depending on environmental and charg ing conditions . Specificat ions and design are subject to change without notice.
No reproduction in any form of this manual , in whole or in part (except for brief quotation in critical articles or reviews), may be made without written authorisation from NIKON CORPORATION. Nikon NIKON CORPORATION FUJI BLDG .
Correction O-ring contact areas as shown on page 11 are incorrect. Check O-ring contact areas as shown here_ Berichtigung Die auf Seite 11 gezeigten Verbindungsstellen der O-Ringe sind nicht zutreffend_ Die Verbindungsstellen der O-Ringe gemaB der hier gezeigten Abbildung prOfen. Correction Les zones de contact des joints toriques indiquees page 11 sont incorrectes. Verifier les zones de contact indiquees ici.
58 - 1041iffl ~a,ij:e.IE~~ SB-lo4~m~,lI.J:lJl'i!l:(:Jt!!l.1) tJf ~I) 1 Lt.:OJ-(', iib cf~\3 LJ:Jr'J.>cc b(:, J:J TOJJ: 5(:fjT jE l 'I.:L1-to .IE O')/:7'tJ'ti~~9~lilJ (iffi<~~ t:llIl~) 11 20 (:-:JL'-rt, ::i~.
