
You can create outstanding results with your Nikon Z6 camera when recording videos, but what if you need the same sort of lighting for your films? Then invest in an external video light to help you achieve amazing results. A flash is the best accessory for photographers and helpful when shooting concerts or weddings where the light is insufficient to shoot quality videos. At the same time, To compliment your photos and videos with high stabilization, you need a gimbal for the Nikon Z6.
Nikon Z6 or Sony A7 III Mirrorless Camera
Nikon Z6
Nikon Z6 would be a good choice for anyone who wants an all-around DSLR that can shoot videos with professional quality without compromising on speed, battery life, and photo quality. It can shoot continuously at 11 fps allowing you to capture the moment even if it happens quickly. In addition, the 5-axis stabilization allows smoother videos compared to other DSLRs in its class. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about shooting time limits with this device since it does not use data compression or limit video recording length.
Sony A7 III
The Sony A7 III is a good choice for anyone who wants to save some money but still get professional-level quality when shooting videos or high-resolution photos. Sony A7 III is another mirrorless camera from Sony, gaining much attention from photographers. It can shoot images in 4K and record professional-grade videos at up to 60 fps. In this article, we compare these two cameras based on their capabilities in shooting, video quality, battery life, and many others so you can decide which one stands out when buying your new DSLR or mirrorless camera.
Overall
The Nikon Z6 comes with a high-resolution sensor and can shoot 1080p videos at up to 120 fps. Unfortunately, compared to Sony A7 III, it has a shorter battery life and is more expensive. Yet, it can be a good option for anyone who wants professional video quality without spending too much on a camera.
The Sony A7 III, on the other hand, does not have an in-built image stabilization which can be one of its downfalls when it comes to shooting videos compared to the all-new Nikon Z6. However, it is cheaper than the Z6 and can shoot 4K UHD videos at up to 60 fps allowing you to slow down high-resolution videos to a speed of 24p.
Both cameras can record videos at 60 fps, but Sony A7III can shoot 4K UHD, which professionals use more commonly than 1080p. One advantage of the Z6 over this camera is that it has a longer battery life and better in-body image stabilization when shooting videos.
Nikon Z6 MirrorLess Camera
Specifications
- Category: Mirrorless
- Megapixels: 24.5MP
- Dimensions: 5.8 x 4.6 x 3″ (146 x 116.4 x 76mm) (WxHxD)
- Weight: 19 oz (540g) w/battery and memory card
- Sensor Type / Size: Full-frame CMOS, 35.9 x 23.8 mm (Nikon Z mount) CMOS sensor with a primary color filter
- File Formats Still Images: JPEG, RAW (.NEF), 14-bit RAW (.NEF)
- ISO Sensitivity: 100-51,200 (expandable to 32,100 and 102,400 for still and video respectively)
- Auto Focus: Auto Focus with 51 focus points
About
A Nikon Z6 camera with a 1-inch sensor could be out of your budget. But fortunately, you can have an affordable, yet high-quality video DSLR from Nikon called the Z6. The price might not be as low as Canon EOS 77D, but the features it offers are better than any other DSLR in its class. And yes, it promises great images and videos to help you capture different types of memories like never before. This is one device that is redefining quality images and videos with its impressive RAW shooting capability at 12 fps (frames per second), 4K UHD 10bit recording completely stabilized using 5-axis lens shift making up to 5 stops* smoother for EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) and 48.3MP stills for printing your memories in poster size.
Features
Knowing what lies under its hood is best if you plan to purchase a DSLR or mirrorless camera. This will help you understand how user-friendly the device is in different settings like parties, weddings, concerts, etc. Here’s what makes this workhorse one of the most sought-after DSLRs in 2018:
24MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor: The sensor can produce outstanding images with great color reproduction needed for professional results. Recording videos up to 4K UHD at 30/25/24p is possible without compromising the quality.
4K UHD Video Recording at 30/25/24 fps: Create professional videos using a single device without compromising the quality and color reproduction needed by professionals. You can use Stop-down exposure compensation for a more shallow depth of field. The Z6 has no time limits on recording as it does not use data compression or limit recording length.
5-axis In-body Image Stabilization with up to 5 stops of versatility: Your videos will have a smoother experience if shot down from 5-stop*1 to 3-stop even when walking. With the help of full sensor coverage, the image stabilization has improved significantly compared to other cameras in its class.
High-Precision 273-Point Autofocus System :The 273 points cover 90% of the frame and makeup to f/8 with compatible AF NIKKOR lenses*. Each point is cross-type and works well with a wide aperture setting while still shooting. In addition, you can utilize the built-in Focus Shift Mode for macro shooting or landscape by shifting the focus distance automatically without touching the lens focus ring.
4K UHD 10bit HDMI Output: Create professional-grade outputs needed by professionals who work for broadcasting or other multimedia companies. Perform slow-motion shots easily by setting the output to 1080p at a higher fps rate*.
14-bit RAW Capture: Create exceptional images with rich color depth and dynamic range. The Z6 can record JPEG images up to 24MP while recording RAW images in 12 or 14-bit formats.
Final Thoughts
If you are getting the Z6 for your video shooting needs, it is best to get an external video light or ring light to help you achieve amazing results. A flash is the best accessory for photographers and helpful when shooting concerts or weddings where the light is insufficient to shoot quality videos. At the same time, To compliment your photos and videos with high stabilization, you need a gimbal for Nikon Z6. It will give you smooth results without having to exert too much effort in keeping it steady during recording.
- Pros
- 4MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- 4K UHD Video Recording
- ISO Sensitivity up to 102,400
- 5-Axis Image Stabilization with 5 stops of versatility
- 4K UHD 10bit 4:2:2 HDMI Output
- Cons
- Plastic body
- No built-in flash
Top Rated Best Flash for Nikon Z6
The Nikon Z6 camera is an amazing piece of machinery. However, it is best to know what accessories are available for this mirrorless system before buying the camera. This list contains flash, which is necessary for photography with your new mirrorless camera.
- Nikon SB-5000 AF Speedlight Flash
- Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight Flash
- Godox V1-N Flash with the AK-R1 kit
- Profoto A10 On-Camera Flash for Nikon
- YONGNUO YN560 IV Wireless Flash
- YONGNUO YN968N Wireless Camera
Nikon SB-5000 AF Speedlight Flash
Specifications
- Flash Mode: TTL, Manual
- Flash Sync Speed: 1/250th second max.
- Maximum Flash Duration: 1/20000 – 1/2 sec.
- Color Filter Diameter (mm): 77mm
- Guide Number: 60′ @ ISO 100
- Number Flashes: Approx. 50-60 per set
- Color Temp Control: 2200K -10,000K
- Battery Type: Alkaline, Lithium-ion or NiMH type
- Voltage Rating: at 6V or 7.2V
- Size (WxHxD): 2.9 x 5.3 x 3.9 inches
About
The SB-5000 is Nikon’s flagship model. It uses two-color screens on the control panel, making it one of the few spotlights easily found by feeling alone. You don’t have to look at the display to adjust settings; however, note that this type of control interface may require getting used to. Controls are logically grouped according to functionality and position for beginner users, so adjustments become second nature once mastered.
The “5000” stands for the guide number in meters. This powerful Speedlight with a superior effective range makes it ideal for most usage, from portraiture to wedding and event photography.
Features
The SB-5000 power is supplied by 4 AA batteries housed in a separate battery chamber to reduce overheating during extended use. In addition, You can use a single EN-EL15 or EL18a Rechargeable Li-ion Batteries. However, it is recommended that alkaline, Lithium-ion, or NiMH-type batteries are used for maximum performance.
The Nikon Speedlight SB-5000 supports a USB Power Source Port interface and comes with a 1 Year warranty to cover manufacturer defects. 2 Group Wireless Remote Commander operations are available at eight channels. In addition, the Nikon SB-5000 can control the output of other flash units wirelessly via Edge/ETTL/ITTL Auto mode connected with D4, D810 & D800 DSLR Cameras. The Nikon SB-5000’s Warranty is honored by Cameraverse.
The SB-5000 can be used on cameras with a dedicated Speedlight Terminal & are compatible with the Nikon Creative Lighting System. The camera must support i-TTL flash control for F11 above, including D800, D7000, D4s, etc.
The SB-5000 is equipped with a wireless remote controller such as the NR-W01. You can utilize the Wireless Remote Controller to control the on / off of the flash from up to 2m and select between manual and TTL mode. This means that you can adjust settings wirelessly without touching the unit itself, which allows for more stable lighting and greater freedom of movement during weddings and other events.
The SB-5000 is a Speedlight that offers superior performance. The guide number of this model is an impressive 60’ at ISO 100, which helps you shoot when you’re too far away from your subject to use the flash’s illumination naturally.
To adjust how much light comes from the flash itself and how much light is available in ambient conditions, you’ll be able to select a power level ranging from 1/128 up through 1/1. This allows you to balance artificial light with natural lighting for more appealing shots, especially when shooting portraits in a studio or wedding photography in a location set.
Final Thoughts
The Nikon SB-5000 offers more features than most photographers will ever use, but a large number of advanced settings and modes are welcome for those who know how to take advantage of these advanced options. In addition, the vastly superior guide number compared to previous top-of-the-line models offers great flexibility for those who need a powerful Speedlight.
- Pros
- Attractive price makes it an excellent value
- Effective range allows for great creative freedom.
- Many advanced features for experienced users
- Supports TTL Flash Control
- High Guide Number
- Cons
- Minor whiteout problem at full power on very bright backgrounds
Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight Flash
Specifications
- Guide Number: 38m / 125 ft @ 200 ISO
- Flash Modes Auto, Manual, TTL & Repeating Flash
- HSS to 1/8000th Second & Rear Curtain Sync
- External Power Port for Optional Battery Packs
- Color Filter Holder with Diffusion and Color Filter Set
- Wide Angle Coverage from 18mm to 180mm (FX Lens Equivalent)
- Optical Transmission: 90%(ISO 100)
- Coverage: Up to 70°
About
The Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight Flash is the slightly smaller and lighter version of the SB-900 and SB-910. Being a little lower in price and has almost all the features users require. The hot shoe fits both FX & DX cameras. So you can use it on any camera that has a pop-up flash. This Speedlight offers easy-to-use i-TTL functionality, which means it’s compatible with all current Nikon DSLR Camera models such as D3100, D5200 & D600, etc.
Features
With a high guide number of 38m, the Nikon SB-700 allows photographers to achieve lighting power over larger areas than a built-in camera flash. In addition, the creative Lighting System’s Commander Mode makes guiding multiple off-camera flashes a breeze.
With the Nikon Creative Lighting System, you can also control multiple flashes with precise exposure and light distribution.
The built-in AF assist illuminator makes sure your subjects stay sharp even when low light – all via the pop-up flash of your camera. The Nikon SB-700 is powered by 4xAA batteries or an AC adapter (optional). There’s a handy LED indicator panel for battery level and charging status.
The Wireless Off-Camera Shoe Cord for Nikon Speedlight SB-R200 allows you to use your Nikon SB-R200 Remote Speedlight off-camera, with the added benefit of the Zoom Head swiveling 180 degrees. It fits into your camera’s hot shoe and connects to the remote Speedlight (not included) via a PC sync cord connector. This will provide comfortable handheld operation, or place it on any light stand using 1/4 “-20 thread.
The Nikon Creative Lighting System is compatible with all CLS-compatible flash units, including the Nikon SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, and SB-400. This cheap Speedlight is great as a backup model and will do all that most small cameras require without major problems.
This Nikon Speedlight comes with all the necessary equipment to utilize it in any way according to your photography needs. The built-in reflector card allows you to bounce light upwards or downwards without obstructing the camera lens. It has a swiveling head that rotates around 248 degrees up to over 60 degrees down over 180 degrees either left-right & up/down & left or right & down.
Final Thoughts
Nikon SB-700 Speedlight Flash (Beginner Friendly!). The Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight is slightly lower in price than the better-known models and comes with many of the same features you would expect from a Nikon flash unit. Further, Nikon SB-700 Speedlight is slightly cheaper than the newer models and is just as good for those who need a budget Speedlight. Its accurate i-TTL function makes it an excellent choice for amateurs and semi-professionals looking to get more creative with their pictures. If you are looking to expand into flash photography or want an economical Speedlight, then this is what you are looking for!
- Pros
- Good Flash for Entry-Level DSLRs
- Robust and Durable
- Easy to use
- Variable Angle Bounce Head
- Wireless Off-Camera Shoe Cord
- Cons
- For more advanced cameras, it won’t be ideal
Godox V1-N Flash with AK-R1 kit
Specifications
- Power source: 7.2V/2600mAh Li-ion Polymer Battery
- Recycle Time: < 1.5 seconds
- Full Power Flashes: Approx. 480
- Sync Triggering Mode: Hot shoe, 2.5mm syncline.
- Color Temperature: 5600+- 200k
- Dimensions: 76x93x197mm
- Weight without battery: 420g
- Weight with battery: 530g.
- Lighting: Guide No: 60 (ISO 100, m)
- Flash Mode: Auto, Hi, Lo, RPT(16), M (Manual)
About
The Godox V1-N is a small quality made hot shoe flash. It’s compatible with Nikon, Fuji, Olympus, and Pentax cameras (like the D3100, D5100 & D7000 models). The i-TTL & HSS functions allow you to get an easy exposure when shooting within the standard 6 meters range. It’s also equipped with 16 full power levels (GN60@ISO 100) to help you figure out how much light you need for your shots. And the recycle time is only around 2.6 seconds with Lithium batteries (at full power).
Features
The Godox V1-N is a great, compact flash for those who want more control over their shots. It’s easy to use and can provide multiple light settings, so you’ll always get your desired results. The Flash output is auto-adjusted according to lens aperture. If you set an f/2.8 or larger aperture, Godox V1-N will deliver full output. Otherwise reduced 1/3rd of total guide number as maximum flash output(by default) without any preflash function.SS Mode – Flash output set as full power regardless of the lens aperture.
With a high guide number of 38m, the Nikon SB-700 allows photographers to achieve lighting power over larger areas than a built-in camera flash. In addition, the creative Lighting System’s Commander Mode allows you to use the SB-700 as a controller for multiple off-camera flashes. Great for events, weddings, and more! The Nikon SB-700 is designed to provide professional performance while being simple to set up and use.
This Godox V850II Flash is compatible with all Sony Cameras. It has 60 min Full Power Flashes, S1/S2 Optical Trigger Support & HSS. This flash unit can be used on- or off-camera with various lighting effects through its rotating head (0 – 270 degrees). The flash features an easy access multi-function display screen that shows important settings at a glance which helps beginners learn how to properly expose their photos without going through complicated menus or manuals.
The Godox V850II also comes with an LED video light (3200K) to help you set up shots at night or in dark locations. The Godox AD360 is a lightweight unit with the power, functions, and features required for professional photographers who use speedlights daily. The AD360 offers both TTL & Manual control over lighting direction, intensity, zooming flexibility and can be used as both Master or Slave flash. In addition, it has three flash modes (M/R/HSS). Compared to similar products, the AD360 is 100 times more powerful & 50% lighter!
Final Thoughts
The Godox V1-N with AK-R1 flash kit is great for those photographers who want to add some wireless flash into their shots. No need for complicated setups or ND/ND Grads. Just pop it on the camera, and you’re ready to go! With its high guide number, you’ll be able to create powerful flash shots with ease. Further, This kit also comes with everything you need, so if you’re just starting, it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to get the most out of their photography!
- Pros
- SS Function
- High Guide Number
- Fast recycle time
- Auto & Manual guide number
- Rotating head
- Cons
- Limited to Sony Cameras
Profoto A10 On-Camera Flash for Nikon
About
The Profoto A10 is the lightest, most compact Profoto on-camera flash ever. You can use it as both a continuous (for fill) or momentary (for dramatic pop) light source. The battery lasts for an impressive amount of time out in the field, and it’s capable of charging itself in just four minutes. Weighing in at just 4.3 ounces, it’s the perfect companion to your Nikon DSLR.
The A10 is perfect for everyday shooting situations when you want more light on your subject or background than your camera’s built-in flash can provide. You can also utilize it as a creative light source with unique lighting results. When used with other Profoto lights, the A10 provides powerful and versatile setups ready to travel anywhere. The possibilities are endless!
Features
LED light source with a maximum flux of 130 lumens. You can dim the light from 5-100%. For example, it is the equivalent to the light of a 300W tungsten fresnel at full power. Continuous or momentary lighting modes are available for creative freedom. This feature combined with the TTL mode also makes it possible to use this as an off-camera flash unit using either built-in optical slave or simple manual triggering.
Integrated Lithium-Ion battery charges in just four minutes and lasts up to 530 flashes at full power. Just plug the battery into the optional high-speed charger, pop it into your bag and forget about it until you need it again – sleek design means no cords or extra batteries to hold you down.
The A10 offers a full-power flash duration of 1/1000 second at full power. The circle around the front element is the modeling lamp (with adjustable output) for faster focusing in dark environments and improved modeling effect. Unique light shaping capabilities with built-in +6 stops TTL variation. You can use this feature to control both shadows and highlights creatively. So it enables photographers to produce unique images that truly stand out from the crowd.
The lens mounts directly to your camera’s flash shoe with the Profoto Nikon mount. This mounts conveniently on top of your existing shoe, giving you easy access to both flashes at all times without having to change anything. It comes Dual channel radio triggering system compatible with either PocketWizards™ or Canon ST-E3/ES wireless transmitters. The A10 is also equipped with an optical slave mode, making it possible to use it in sync with any non-radio-controlled flash units.
The new A10 can do everything from broad floodlighting to a soft fill-light in environmental portraits with beautiful skin tones. The A10 works great when shooting in a studio or on location, adding beauty and drama with its powerful light output. The A10 is a guaranteed eye-catcher at any location or event, letting you create professional images that stand out from the crowd.
Final Thoughts
The A10 is perfect for everyday situations when you use more light on your subject or background than your camera’s built-in flash can provide. It’s also powerful enough to serve as a main or backlight in medium-sized studios, with the added benefit of being able to carry it around all day long. Finally, it works perfectly combined with other Profoto lights, adding power and versatility to setups that are now ready to travel anywhere. The possibilities are endless!
Specifications:
- Recycle: 0.1-2 sec (fully charged, cooled)
- Flashes: 530 (± 2%) at full power
- Power output: 130 Lumens
- Battery duration: 90 min
- Light shaping +6 stops TTL variation
- Flash tube head tilt range: 0°-90° in vertical
- Flash tube head rotation: 360° (full rotation)
- Modeling lamp: 1.5W LED with adjustable output, beam angle: 90°
- Power supply: Li-ion battery 5200mAh 7.4V
- Maximum Flux: 130 lm (5-100%) / 300W tungsten
- Pros
- Lightweight
- Rechargeable battery pack
- Wide power range
- Low heat at full power
- Cons
- None
YONGNUO YN560 IV Wireless Flash
About
The YONGNUO YN560 IV Wireless Flash is a welcome update to the popular line of YN560 Speedlight from Yongnuo. The YN560 IV Wireless Flash takes what was good about its older sibling and updates it with the latest technology.
Yongnuo has jettisoned the PWM communication system. So it used to communicate between sites using pulses of light (optical) And has upgraded its communication protocol to Infrared (IR). The result is a wireless flash that is more reliable and consistent in its communication, resulting in far more efficient use of battery power.
Features
Powering the YN560 IV, Wireless Flash has also been revamped. So it allows for compatibility with third-party cells, including Eneloop Pro batteries. Further, A new Lithium-ion slot has been thrown into the mix, which is said to have a lower profile. And, coupled with the Eneloop Pros, it can result in the third stop in power.
The YN560 IV Wireless Flash has also received several other updates. It includes a fine-tuning of its flash head that allows for better control over your light output from 1/128 to full power.
The YN560 IV Wireless Flash also has a “Focus Assist” feature that allows you to fine-tune the flash head depending on your camera/subject distance to get an accurate power output reading. This is particularly useful when focusing at odd angles or in low light before spinning up your dedicated Speedlite.
The “Sound Prompt” is another new addition to the YN560 IV Wireless Flash is the “Sound Prompt.” What this does is trigger your Speedlite to fire off a quick burst of light. So, whenever you take a picture using either the built-in remote or your camera/smartphone. The idea behind it is to help provide some backlighting when you might not have any other flashes to help light up your background/subject(s).
Yongnuo has also beefed up the wireless functionality of the YN560 IV Wireless Flash. So, now it can communicate with as many as three groups at a time. This is particularly useful if you’re using on-camera and off-camera lighting setups.
Final Thoughts
The YN560 IV Wireless Flash takes what was good about its older sibling. And even it comes with the latest in technology. First, Yongnuo has jettisoned the PWM communication system. That’s why it communicates between sites using pulses of light (optical) and has upgraded its communication protocol to Infrared (IR). The result is a wireless flash that is more reliable and consistent in its communication. As a result, it results in far more efficient use of battery power.
The Yongnuo YN560 IV Wireless Flash is a huge improvement over its predecessor. Also, in the competition out of both the Godox TT685S and RadioPopper PX. So you find yourself ditching your Speedlite for good.
Specifications:
- Model: YN560 IV
- Lumens: GN58 @ ISO 100
- Flash Coverage Angle: 24 – 105mm (16-200mm with diffuser)
- Tilt/Swivel Range: 0 – 90 degrees / 0 – 270 degrees
- Power Supply: 4 x AA Batteries or 6V External Power
- External Power: 6V-1A (via xsync port)
- Recycle Time: 0.1-2s recycle depending on mode
- HSS to 1/8000th
- Flash Modes: ETTL /M / Multi
- Manual Power Output: 1/128 – 1/1 (in 1/3rd increments)
- Pros
- Solid and robust build quality and design
- Eneloop Pro compatible
- 1/8000s HSS
- 3.5mm sync port
- Quick Response
- Cons
- The pop up flash is a bit too short for certain lens/shoe
YONGNUO YN968N Wireless Camera
Specifications:
- Model: YN968N Type: Wireless Flash
- Guide Number : 9 (ISO 100, 105mm) to 63 (ISO 100, 200mm)
- Recycling Time: 2.2 seconds at full power
- Color Temperature : 5600 +/- 50k
- Flash Duration: 1/300s to 1/800s
- Radio Transmission Range: Line of Sight – 98 ft / 30 m
- Power Supply: 4 x AA Batteries
- Swivel Head: Yes (0 to 90 degrees)
- HSS: High-Speed Sync up to 1/8000 sec.
- Controls: Manual dials with LED indicators
- Dimensions: 5.20 x 3.46 x 4.13 inches
- Weight: 460 g / 16 oz. (without batteries)
About
The YN968N is one of the few flashes with built-in LED modeling lamps with adjustable intensity levels. These lamps are nearly as bright as modeling lights on top studio strobes yet do not draw much power from batteries. So you can use them for hours without draining them quickly. In addition, this is a new, premium Canon wireless flash that has both high-speed sync mode up to 1/8000s and TTL compatibility.
The YONGNUO YN968N Wireless Camera supports HSS (High-Speed Sync) up to 1/8000 second shutter speed, allowing you to shoot under bright daylight conditions or at night with night large-aperture settings of f/2.8 or more. So if you need a shallower depth of field, you can use this flash to get the job done.
Features
The YN968Nflash also has an adjustable head with a -3 to 90 degrees. So you can adjust the angle of light for more creative lighting effects or bounce light off surfaces such as ceilings or walls.
Power options include four AA batteries compatible with 6,500mAh Powerex batteries that last twice as long in strobes without built-in LED modeling lamps. The output is five f/stops between guide number 9 and 63 depending on ISO settings, ensuring that you have enough power to cover all your shooting needs from wedding receptions to sports events indoors and out. And because Yongnuo’s flashes are fully manual, they are compatible with most camera systems, including mirrorless cameras.
The YONGNUO YN968N Wireless Camera is a well-built flash ideal for all camera systems, including mirrorless and DSLRs, thanks to its full manual controls and compatibility with TTL metering modes. It’s also relatively light and portable, weighing just over a pound even with four AA batteries installed.
The YN968N has a high-speed sync mode up to 1/8000 second shutter speed, which allows you to shoot under bright daylight conditions or at night with large-aperture settings of f/2.8 or more. So if you need a shallower depth of field, you can use this flash to get the job done.
The YONGNUO YN568EX is a flagship optical slave flash compatible with Nikon, Canon, Sony, Olympus, and Pentax camera systems. It has HSS (High-Speed Sync) up to 1/8000 second shutter speed that allows you to shoot under bright daylight conditions or at night with large-aperture settings of f/2.8 or more. So if you need a shallower depth of field, you can use this flash to get the job done.
Final Thoughts
Yongnuo has continued its track record of providing affordable but high-quality strobes and wireless flashes with the YN968N Wireless Camera. This well-built flash is ideal for all camera systems, including mirrorless and DSLRs, thanks to its full manual controls and compatibility with TTL metering modes. It’s also relatively light and portable, weighing just over a pound even with four AA batteries installed.
- Pros
- Good build quality
- High-speed sync (up to 1/8000s)
- HSS compatible with most camera systems
- Cheap
- Cons
- No wireless master function
Buyers Guide
A flash unit is very important while shooting in low light to get the perfect portrait or at night. The Nikon Z6 has a small built-in flash unit, but these cannot give you very effective results or freeze motion. So if you want your images to be stunning, investing in the Best Flash for Nikon Z6 is important.
Size of the Camera:
If you are planning to purchase an external flash unit, then make sure to check out the size of your camera because not every third-party accessory will fit on your new camera properly. For example, if you plan to use a smaller hot shoe mount Speedlight with Nikon D7000, it won’t fit Nikon D7500.
Guide Number:
If you want to flash your camera for harsh daylight, then the guide number of the flash unit is very important. A higher guide number means a more powerful flash and can help you in thick lighting conditions like sun and snow and transmit light over longer distances. Conversely, a lower Guide Number (GN) indicates a weaker flash with less power.
Recycle Time:
You will be using external flashes for low-light images, so make sure that it doesn’t pose an additional burden on the battery life, i.e., if its recycle time is slow. On the other hand, it will affect the camera’s battery life, resulting in missed shots or delayed captures while shooting moving subjects such as kids and pets.
Flash Modes:
There are different types of modes available in various compatible flashes, which can be helpful according to the usage. For example, the Red-eye Reduction mode helps to eliminate red eyes by emitting a small preflash before the main flash burst associated with your photos. There’s also Rear-curtain Sync which is used when photographing moving subjects to get a natural-looking blur effect behind them and so on.
Reflector Bounce:
Reflector bounce flash is another great feature to consider that you would be using while taking portraits or still life images. This type of flash can take away the harshness of the light by bouncing it off a nearby wall or ceiling. This will soften it up and give you amazing results with no shadow in your photograph!
Flexibility
Other features worth considering are flexibility, i.e., portability, size, etc., when looking for Best Flash for Nikon Z6. Some flash units come with a built-in light sensor, so you can choose whether to use it as a Commander or Slave unit. In some cases, the Commander mode is available via a wireless unit. In most cases, there’s also an LCD screen on which you can monitor all your settings remotely from the camera itself.
Sync Port
The Z6 camera don’t come with a sync port, so if you want to use an external flash, then opt for the one that features TTL pass-through hot shoe. This will allow you to use an external flash head in conjunction with the onboard flash on top of your camera when taking portraits or still images. You can switch off the onboard flash when needed, like in low light conditions, and activate it when required.
External Diffuser
Newer models are coming up with built-in diffusers, but still, there are many cameras available in the market without them. So if you want to use external flash without a diffuser, choose one with built-in ones. The strobe lights tend to produce harsh shadows. So investing in a diffuser will help you take away that “direct” feel from your final output.
Wireless Remote Control:
You can control external flashes remotely via wireless triggers, which means you don’t have to touch them and capture images just the way you love! Instead, you set up everything and then enjoy shooting moving subjects such as pets and kids without touching the flash at all.
LED Light:
If you are planning to shoot indoors often, then an external flash with built-in LED light is a perfect match for you which will work great in low lights while taking pictures of restaurants, bars, parties, and events like weddings. You can also buy diffusers that attach to these LEDs for even softer shadows.
Camera Compatibility:
While buying an external flash unit, make sure it’s compatible with your camera type (Nikon or Canon). For example, if you own both Nikon and Canon DSLR cameras, make sure their flashes are double! Also, do not forget to check out its compatibility with older models. For example, some-party speedlights may not work on a certain model while others will.
Power:
The power of the flash is measured in GN or Guide Number, which tells you how powerful it is. You can use the greater the guide number, the more your camera’s lens opening, which means you can use faster shutter speeds with lenses of wider aperture, especially when there isn’t enough light to compensate for all that power. For example, if an external flash offers a guide number of 60 at ISO 100, then at full aperture, it will provide about two stops more light than natural lighting. This is important to consider when taking portraits to prevent blurred images due to slow shutter speed.
Battery Options:
Make sure you check out what type of batteries are needed and the manufacturer’s recommendations before buying a flash unit. Some models need special batteries that you might not buy easily. For example, Nikon SB-910 AF Speedlight Flash features a 201-type battery. At the same time, Canon 580EX II requires four AA-type alkaline/lithium/NiMH batteries.
Some external flashes come with built-in rechargeable batteries, i.e., they work on their power source without draining any power from your camera’s battery. However, other units require you to use the camera’s battery instead to power up the flash, so you must check this information out before making your final purchase decision.
Frequently Asked Question
Which Flash Offers the Most Versatility?
Nikon Creative Lighting System SB-700 flash Kit is small, lightweight, versatile, and reasonably priced. Again, the Creative Lighting System (CLS) works seamlessly with the Nikon Z6/Z7 cameras. Therefore, it’s an ideal option for those willing to pay a little more for additional features. In addition, the SB-700 has i-TTL technology. So, it allows you to control multiple off-camera flashes via wireless communication (i-TTL).
Which Flash Offers the Most Power?
It isn’t easy to give an exact estimate of how many full-power flashes can be expected from various flash units on this new camera system. Yet, even with diffusers or modifiers, Nikon SB-5000 offers enough power for most scenarios.
Do you think the hot shoe is a good feature for the Nikon Z6?
The Nikon Z6 lacks a built-in flash. But the hot shoe provides an option for those who wish to attach an external flash. Further, You must use flashes that support Nikon’s Creative Lighting System (CLS) for this feature to work properly. This includes most Nikon speedlights, including SB700, SB5000, etc.
Do you think that the Nikon Z6 is better or worse than other cameras for flash photography?
This might be a very subjective question, as there’s no ‘perfect camera’ for flash photography. But, if anything, the Nikon Z6 should prove to be an excellent camera for beginners and photo enthusiasts alike.
Would you invest in a company that makes flashes for the Nikon Z6?
Yes. If you’re planning to use Nikon Z6 for your photography, then investing in a company that makes flashes for this camera system is a wise idea. For example, companies like Godox manufacture TTL/HSS enabled flash units. It offers high-performance results on the Nikon Z series cameras.
Which accessories are compatible with the Nikon Z6?
The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) is available for all current Nikon cameras. CLS enables users to control multiple off-camera flashes wirelessly using i-TTL technology. Therefore, it’s a great option for those who wish to use multiple external flash units. In addition, Nikon Z6/Z7 is fully compatible with Nikon F-mount lenses and other existing accessories.
How well does the Nikon Z6 perform in low-light?
The Nikon has a maximum native ISO setting of 51200. So it is more than enough for shooting subjects indoors or outdoors on bright sunny days. It also has an extremely sensitive autofocus system that can focus in very dark lighting conditions. As a result, this camera offers enough performance to take great pictures under very challenging lighting conditions.
Conclusion
During the past few days, I have researched how to modify an electronic flash unit to work with Nikon Z6/Z7 mirrorless full-frame cameras. This is because Nikon messed up big time by not providing a high-speed sync or HSS flash mode in these new flagship cameras. With its lack of HSS, the Z6/Z7 is becoming less appealing.
I do not like to use built-in electronic flash units in my photography. Because you do lose a lot of power and versatility when using them. You can’t move or bend them easily. They overheat quickly, which destroys batteries pretty fast. For me, it’s easier to use an external flash unit that has its battery built-in.
The Nikon SB-5000 offers the best features currently unavailable elsewhere (wireless TTL, P-TTL). The YN968N provides the fastest recycling time, which is extremely helpful for professional photographers. If you also want to have a flash with a high guide number, the Nikon SB-700 is your choice.