1. Forum
  2. Photography and Camera Forum
  3. Camera Manufacturers - by Brand
  4. Nikon Camera Forum
  5. How to use a Manual flash on Nikon D300

How to use a Manual flash on Nikon D300


6 years 6 months ago #546127 by iKokomo
I have an older manual flash that connects via the PC Sync port (the trigger voltage is 6v so it is safe) so when I plug it in and take a photo, the flash does not fire. The test button fires the flash so I know the bulb is ok.

I have also tried the pc sync to hot shoe adapter on a couple of Nikon cameras and it still does not work.

Is there a menu setting on the camera that I need to set for manual flash mode? I know there is a setting for manual lenses is it the same for a flash?

Thanks! 

PS. FIRST Post! Can't wait to be part of this group! 
,
6 years 6 months ago #546150 by Screamin Scott
I'm assuming the flash is a TTL unit. Well, the camera has iTTL circuitry and is looking for different info than what it is getting from the flash unit. I'd suggest taping over the two pins on the flash foot, leaving the center pin uncovered and the single pin on the other side. You may have to cover that single pin up as well, but I don't believe so. If it still doesn't work then cover the three pins up with scotch tape. That's what I had to do with an older dedicated ring/point light until I switched out the flash module to the standard (single center pin) one.
Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/
Photo Comments
,
6 years 6 months ago - 6 years 6 months ago #546177 by Screamin Scott
Out of curiosity, what brand is the flash? My previous reply was using it in the hot shoe but on re-reading your post, you said you were using the PC sync port. I would try another sync port on a unit that sits in the hot shoe. Actually, I would get a newer unit that syncs better with your DSLR. I have a D300 (and a D7100 & D610 as well) and I also have older film era flashes (SB25 & SB28)but use my SB600's instead. I use the other older ones in slave modes...
Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/
Photo Comments
,
6 years 6 months ago #546196 by effron
I agree on getting the newer speedlight that mates to the Nikon camera....
Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
6 years 6 months ago - 6 years 6 months ago #546299 by McBeth Photography
I believe that there is a manual flash mode setting in the menu of the D300, however that PC port on the camera body should fire a flash ever time the shutter button is pressed. If we assume the pc port is working on the D300, that leaves the cord as suspect. Radio triggers are very inexpensive on ebay and very reliable, you might want to get some anyhow .... as well as a Nikon or comparable flash.
It is what it is.
,
6 years 6 months ago - 6 years 6 months ago #546315 by Screamin Scott
Since it's safe, have you tried the flash unit in the hot shoe? If that works and you want the flash off camera, trigger it with radio triggers. Still waiting to know the brand of the flash...
Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/
Photo Comments
,
6 years 6 months ago #546658 by effron
Yeah, the make is only quite important...We might hear back, who knows?
Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
6 years 6 months ago #546673 by Screamin Scott
Don't hold your breath....
Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/
Photo Comments
,
6 years 6 months ago #546725 by effron
I'd pass out in three seconds if I tried, besides the OP may just be shopping a nice, lightly used SB-600....
Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,

  1. Forum
  2. Photography and Camera Forum
  3. Camera Manufacturers - by Brand
  4. Nikon Camera Forum
  5. How to use a Manual flash on Nikon D300

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Show Me...

Visit 4wdtlak Forum
Saal

Latest Reviews

Canon EOS R100 Review

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024
Nikon Zfc Review

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024
Canon EOS R50 Review

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024
Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II Review

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024
More Articles
Ikan
Sponsored Imageimages/stories/vendors/sony.pngSponsored Imageimages2/vanguard1.jpg
Sponsored ImageSponsored Image

Latest Articles

5 Keys for More Impactful Photos of Landscapes

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024
Canon EOS R100 Review

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024
Expert Tips to Upgrade Your Camera Gear With Used Equipment

Are you ready to upgrade your camera? Before buying new, you might consider the value of purchasing used gear to save money.

Apr 18, 2024
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024
What is Blue Hour Photography?

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024
Nikon Zfc Review

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024
5 Dog Photography Tips for Stunning Results

Moving from taking snapshots of your dog to creating beautiful images doesn’t have to be that difficult! Use the tips outlined in this dog photography guide, and you’ll get better results in no time.

Apr 15, 2024
FAQs About Acrylic Print Photos

Acrylic print photos are a beautiful way to display your favorite images. But they don’t come without some questions. Get all the answers you need about this medium in this guide!

Apr 15, 2024
More Articles