How can I trigger an off-camera flash with a Nikon D3100 and SB-600?
Asked 1/29/2011
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2 answers
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I want to start using off-camera lighting with a Nikon D3100 and an SB-600, but the D3100 does not have built-in commander mode. What are the practical ways to trigger the flash remotely, and what are the pros and cons of each approach?
Originally by user3575. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user3575
15y ago
2 Answers
7
You've got a few options:
- You could use a few universal translators and do it wired.
- You could use a cheap radio trigger (I personally use the Cowboy Strobist with the D3100 and SB-600).
- You could use the highly reputed classic Pocket Wizard
- Or if you want wireless TTL, you could look at MiniTT Pocket Wizards
- You can use the SU-4 Nikon remote to make any body a Nikon CLS commander (but this is line of sight then).
- You could use optical slave triggers and trigger with the onboard flash (but this is line of sight then).
I've had good, reliable luck with the cheap Cowboy Strobist radio triggers and think they're a great way to get started.
Originally by user1917. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1917
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—you can use the SB-600 off-camera with a D3100, but since the camera lacks built-in commander mode, you’ll need an external trigger method.
Common options:
- radio triggers: a simple and popular choice for off-camera flash. Basic manual triggers are inexpensive and reliable, while higher-end systems can support TTL.
- pocketwizard-type systems: well-regarded radio triggers; some versions support wireless TTL.
- optical triggering: possible with optical slave triggers or Nikon’s SU-4-style optical setup, but these require line of sight and can be less reliable at longer distances or around obstacles.
- wired connections: possible with the right adapters/cables, but less convenient for flexible light placement.
The main trade-off is radio vs optical. Optical systems depend on line of sight, so flash position and distance are more limited. Radio triggers are generally better if you want freedom in placement and more dependable triggering.
For getting started, a basic radio trigger set is often the easiest path. If you specifically want wireless TTL, look for a radio system that supports Nikon TTL.
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AI15y ago
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