Two SB600's or One SB800???

Joined: 21 Aug 2006 Posts: 175 Location: Midwest

I'm getting a new camera as a graduation gift. :D I've settled on the Nikon D80 but am having some trouble with accessories.

I am really eager to try the off camera lighting outdoors. I have studio lights, but those require an AC power source. So, I am looking forward to the i-TTL offered on the SB's.

So in your experience or opinion, should I get two 600's or one 800's. The price of the two 600's are a bit over the 800 but no too much. Are there features of the 800 that make it a must have?

Any input is appreciated, thanks for reading!

Joined: 09 Apr 2006 Posts: 199 Location: Worcester, England

MidWest88 wrote:

I am really eager to try the off camera lighting outdoors. I have studio lights, but those require an AC power source. So, I am looking forward to the i-TTL offered on the SB's.

That paragraph makes me think you will get more enjoyment from 2 600's than 1 800.

I have found that the advantages of the 800 over the 600 are more output and (with the 5th battery) faster recharge. Neither of which will be of significant advantage for your requirements.

Setting up iTTL in commander mode is fun ! and with more than one gun it is either an interesting challenge or just 'a bridge too far' if you are not that technical.

Joined: 21 Aug 2006 Posts: 175 Location: Midwest

Thanks for the response ncmoody. I will be going with the two sb600's. I'm very excited and will update you all.

Joined: 13 Jan 2007 Posts: 245 Location: Maryland

What makes you think you might need 2 outdoors, other than a backup? What kind of outdoor lighting do you intend to do?

How about working on gaining the understanding of working with flash outdoors (and in!), achieving consistent results with one flash, and purchase the other later, if you find you'll need it.

And as noted, using two flashes in iTTL mode is ummm... "an interesting challenge" (that's a good quote, lol)

Well if it's portraits your doing, put the saved money toward a fast lens... that'll help with those outside shots.

Joined: 21 Aug 2006 Posts: 175 Location: Midwest

Sorry for the delay, but thanks Jacque D

I only went with one sb-600 and it has been a blast so far.