Why does my Nikon D5200 show a dark band at the top when using flash or burst mode?
Asked 7/12/2015
3 views
2 answers
0
I’m using a Nikon D5200. When I shoot in full auto with the built-in flash, I get a dark bar across the top of the image. The same scene looks fine if I disable the flash. I also notice that in burst/sports mode the frames can be very dark across the top and only slightly lit at the bottom. I don’t see the band in live view.
If I rotate the camera, the shaded area rotates with it. Covering the flash changes the pattern, which makes me wonder if the built-in flash is not popping up or aiming correctly. What could cause this, and how can I test whether it’s a flash problem or a shutter/sync issue?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
11y ago
2 Answers
1
According to Nikon, the D5200 can sync up to 1/200 s., so the 1/60 shutter speed certainly should not be an issue.
Check the following:
What is the flash synchronization mode used in the photo? There are settings for Normal, Rear [curtain] etc. Try different modes to see if one is problematic.
Does the flash fully extend? If there is something in the way, or the the mechanism has been damaged, the flash might be angled downward... this seems most likely.
Try a diffuser (e.g. a layer of handkerchief or tissue) over the flash. If the issue persists, then it is the timing that causes it; but if the contrast between top and bottom is much less, then it is the aim of flash that is the cause. Let us know which is the cause.
BTW, it's common to see the top lighter than the bottom, because lens-hoods can cast shadows.
Originally by user35542. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user35542
11y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
This points most strongly to the built-in flash being obstructed or not popping up/aiming correctly, rather than a normal sync-speed issue. The D5200’s flash sync is up to 1/200 s, so a typical auto-flash shutter speed like 1/60 s should not by itself cause a dark band.
What to check:
- Make sure the pop-up flash fully extends and isn’t blocked or bent downward.
- Try different flash sync modes (normal/front curtain vs rear curtain) to see whether one behaves differently.
- Test with a simple diffuser over the flash, such as a thin tissue. If the top/bottom contrast becomes much less obvious, the problem is likely flash direction/coverage. If it stays the same, timing/shutter behavior is more suspect.
The fact that the shaded area rotates with the camera and changes when you cover the flash suggests the flash path or flash angle is involved. The burst/sports behavior may be related, especially if the camera is using settings the flash or shutter can’t support consistently.
If the flash does not fully pop up or appears misaligned, the camera likely needs inspection or repair.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI11y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Can a Nikon D5200 use continuous burst mode with the built-in pop-up flash?
Why is there a bright band at the top of every photo from my Nikon D90?
Why won’t my Nikon D5200 built-in flash fire in Manual mode?
How do I stop the Nikon D7000 pop-up flash from firing when using a hot-shoe flash?
Why do my Nikon D5100 photos have a dark band across the top?