The Nikon D90 is a powerful digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera that offers a range of features to help you capture stunning images. One of the most essential features of the Nikon D90 is the built-in flash, which can be used to add light to your scene, freeze fast-moving subjects, and create more balanced exposures. However, for many photographers, turning on the flash can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to DSLR photography. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to turn on the flash on your Nikon D90, as well as provide you with some valuable tips and tricks to get the most out of your camera’s flash feature.
Understanding The Flash Modes On Your Nikon D90
Before we dive into the process of turning on the flash, it’s essential to understand the different flash modes available on your Nikon D90. The camera offers several flash modes, each designed to cater to specific shooting situations.
The Different Flash Modes On The Nikon D90
The Nikon D90 features the following flash modes:
- Auto Flash: This is the default flash mode, which automatically pops up the flash in low-light conditions or when the camera detects that the subject is backlit.
- Manual Flash: In this mode, you can manually control the flash output, which allows you to adjust the flash power according to your creative vision.
- Red-Eye Reduction: This mode is designed to reduce the red-eye effect in portraits by emitting a series of short flashes before the main flash.
- Slow Sync: This mode allows you to use the flash with slower shutter speeds, which can create a more natural-looking effect in low-light conditions.
- Rear Sync: In this mode, the flash fires at the end of the exposure, which can help to create a more natural-looking effect when capturing moving subjects.
Turning On The Flash On Your Nikon D90
Now that we’ve covered the different flash modes on the Nikon D90, let’s take a step-by-step look at how to turn on the flash.
Step 1: Access The Flash Mode Button
To turn on the flash, you’ll need to access the flash mode button, which is located on the top of the camera, just to the left of the pentaprism.
Tip:
Make sure you’re in the correct shooting mode. The flash is only available in the P, S, A, and M modes.
Step 2: Press The Flash Mode Button
Press the flash mode button until the flash icon appears on the camera’s LCD screen.
Step 3: Choose Your Flash Mode
Use the command dial to select the desired flash mode. You can choose from the different flash modes mentioned earlier, depending on your creative vision.
Step 4: Adjust The Flash Output (Optional)
If you’ve selected the Manual Flash mode, you can adjust the flash output using the sub-command dial. You can adjust the flash output from +3 to -3 EV in increments of 1/3 stop.
Step 5: Take Your Shot
Once you’ve turned on the flash and selected the desired mode, you can take your shot. Make sure to review your image on the camera’s LCD screen to ensure that the flash has fired correctly.
Tips And Tricks For Using The Flash On Your Nikon D90
While turning on the flash is a relatively straightforward process, there are some essential tips and tricks to keep in mind to get the most out of your camera’s flash feature.
Bouncing The Flash
One of the most effective ways to use the flash is to bounce it off a surface, such as a ceiling or wall. This can help to create a more natural-looking effect and reduce harsh shadows.
Diffusing The Flash
You can also diffuse the flash by using a diffusion panel or a piece of white cardboard. This can help to soften the light and create a more flattering effect.
Avoid Overusing The Flash
While the flash can be a valuable tool, it’s essential to avoid overusing it. Overusing the flash can create harsh, unnatural-looking images, and can also drain the camera’s batteries quickly.
Experiment With Flash Sync Speed
The flash sync speed determines the maximum shutter speed at which the flash can be used. Experimenting with different flash sync speeds can help you create more creative and dynamic images.
Conclusion
Turning on the flash on your Nikon D90 is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires a good understanding of the different flash modes and techniques. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can unlock the full potential of your camera’s flash feature and take your photography to the next level. Remember to experiment with different flash modes, bounce and diffuse the flash, and avoid overusing it to create more natural-looking and creative images.
| Flash Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Auto Flash | Automatically pops up the flash in low-light conditions or when the subject is backlit |
| Manual Flash | Allows manual control of the flash output |
| Red-Eye Reduction | Reduces the red-eye effect in portraits by emitting a series of short flashes before the main flash |
| Slow Sync | Allows the use of slower shutter speeds with the flash |
| Rear Sync | Fires the flash at the end of the exposure to create a more natural-looking effect |
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the flash feature on your Nikon D90 and taking your photography to new heights. Happy shooting!
What Is The Flash Mode On My Nikon D90, And What Are The Different Options?
The flash mode on your Nikon D90 refers to the settings that control the behavior of the camera’s built-in flash. The different options include Auto Flash, in which the flash fires automatically in low-light conditions; Flash On, in which the flash always fires; Flash Off, in which the flash never fires; Slow Sync, in which the flash is synchronized with the shutter speed to capture both the subject and the background; and Rear Sync, in which the flash fires at the end of the exposure to capture trailing effects.
Knowing the different flash modes is essential to getting the desired effect in your photos. By understanding when to use each mode, you can take control of the lighting in your images and achieve professional-looking results.
How Do I Turn On The Flash On My Nikon D90?
To turn on the flash on your Nikon D90, press the Flash button, located on the front of the camera, just to the left of the lens mount. The Flash button is marked with a lightning bolt icon. Pressing this button pops up the flash and enables it for the current shot. You can also use the Flash mode dial, located on the top of the camera, to select the flash mode you want to use.
Make sure to check your camera’s settings to ensure that the flash is not set to Flash Off. You can do this by looking at the LCD screen on the back of the camera or by checking the flash mode dial. If the flash is set to Flash Off, you will need to change it to one of the other flash modes to enable the flash.
What Is The Difference Between The Flash On And Auto Flash Modes?
The Flash On mode and Auto Flash mode are both used to enable the flash, but they behave slightly differently. In Flash On mode, the flash always fires, regardless of the lighting conditions. This mode is useful when you want to add fill light to a scene or when you want to be sure that the flash fires, even in bright conditions.
In Auto Flash mode, the flash fires automatically in low-light conditions, but it may not fire in bright conditions. The camera makes this decision based on the lighting conditions and the subject distance. Auto Flash mode is useful when you want the camera to decide when to use the flash, but you still want some control over the flash behavior.
How Do I Know If The Flash Is Ready To Fire?
When the flash is ready to fire, the flash ready-light, located in the viewfinder, will light up. This light indicates that the flash has fully charged and is ready to fire. The flash ready-light will also blink if the flash is not yet ready, indicating that you need to wait a few seconds before taking the shot.
Make sure to check the flash ready-light before taking the shot, especially in burst mode or when taking multiple shots in quick succession. This will ensure that the flash is ready to fire and that you get the desired effect in your photos.
Can I Use The Flash With Other Modes, Such As Aperture Priority Or Shutter Priority?
Yes, you can use the flash with other modes, such as aperture priority or shutter priority. In these modes, the flash will fire automatically, just like in Auto mode. However, you will have more control over the aperture and shutter speed, which can be useful in certain situations.
When using the flash with aperture priority or shutter priority modes, make sure to check the camera’s settings to ensure that the flash is enabled and set to the desired mode. You can do this by looking at the LCD screen on the back of the camera or by checking the flash mode dial.
What Is The Sync Speed For The Flash On My Nikon D90?
The sync speed for the flash on your Nikon D90 is 1/200th of a second or slower. This means that the flash can only synchronize with shutter speeds of 1/200th of a second or slower. If you set the shutter speed to a faster value, the flash will not fire, and you will get an error message on the LCD screen.
Make sure to check the shutter speed before taking the shot, especially when using the flash with fast-moving subjects or in bright conditions. You can adjust the shutter speed to a slower value to ensure that the flash fires correctly.
Can I Use An External Flash Unit With My Nikon D90?
Yes, you can use an external flash unit with your Nikon D90. The camera has a hot shoe on top, which allows you to connect an external flash unit. The external flash unit can provide more power and flexibility than the built-in flash, and it can be useful in certain situations, such as when you need to illuminate a large area or when you want more control over the flash direction.
When using an external flash unit, make sure to check the camera’s settings to ensure that the external flash is enabled and set to the desired mode. You may also need to adjust the flash mode dial on the camera to ensure that the external flash is recognized by the camera.