How to Sync the Built-In Flash on a Nikon D80

The Nikon D80 popup flash can be synchronized to trigger external flash units.

The Nikon D80 was released by Nikon in 2006. At the heart of the camera lays a 10.2 megapixel CCD (charge coupled device) sensor coupled to an image processor that is similar to the processor used in Nikon's D200 and Nikon's professional model, the D2X. The camera's built-in popup flash can also be synchronized to trigger external Nikon Speedlights. Nikon calls this the "Creative Lighting System," and when set up, the possibilities for flash photography are nearly endless.

Instructions

1. Install new batteries in your Nikon D80 and the external Nikon Speedlight you are using. Nikon's SB-600, SB-700 and SB-800 can all be triggered through the Nikon D80.

2. Press the menu button on the back of the D80 and toggle to the "Pencil Icon" and select "Custom Setting Menu."

3. Use the four-way controller on the back of the camera to toggle to "Built-In Flash." Select "Commander Mode" and press "OK" to save your selection.

4. Press the small button on the front side of the Nikon D80 to activate the popup flash. Now your popup flash is synchronized to trigger external Nikon Speedlights.

References

• DP Review: Nikon D80
• Ken Rockwell: Nikon D80 Custom Menus
• Ken Rockwell: Nikon Flash Speedlight Guide

Resources

• Nikon: SB-700 Speedlight