How to adjust Nikon D500 flash sync speed
Nikon D500 is gaining popularity because of its incredible ability to take precise pictures.
While Nikon D500 can take better photos, it is important to ensure that flash sync and the camera work properly. Before making any adjustments, it is important to read the instructions for the Nikon D500 flash sync speed.
The user must then look at Speedlight’s LCD back, where the letters “FP” are visible. Only then will you be able to confirm if the flash and camera are working in high-speed sync mode.
Before we get into the discussion about high-speed synchronization (sync), let us take a look at flash sync.
What’s Flash sync?
Flash sync is a computer-controlled feature that allows the flash and shutter to release simultaneously while being synchronized for illumination. When the shutter is open for 1/60s, 1/250s, or 1/125s, the flash illuminates the subject perfectly.
Different settings for Nikon D500 flash synchronous speed
Step 1. Set the aperture
- If you are taking a portrait outside, the TTL Meter will remind you that the stop should be at f/16. However, if you still want sharp images with blurred backgrounds and soft subject matter, the aperture should be set to f/2. You can set the flash speed to High Sync Speed to achieve this goal.
- Let’s take an example. This scene is outside with bright daylight. The flash only works at 1/200th and below. The aperture should be set at f/16, f/22 in this case. This customized setting will eliminate the sync speed issue.
- Set your aperture at f/16 if you’re shooting in direct sun. Set the aperture to f/22 if you want to capture the richer background of the sky.
Step 2. Set the shutter speed
Outdoor portraits can be taken with a shutter speed of 1/125s. This will ensure that the subject remains in focus. To create a blurred background, you must set the shutter speed to 1/5000s.
- When you are using a telephoto lens or capturing fast-moving action, High Shutter Sync is necessary. If you want to use high shutter speeds with high stops, this condition is also recommended. A High Shutter Sync is the best option for sports photography. This is also true for wildlife situations.
- It’s best to use the rear and front curtain sync if you want to create arresting images. You must maintain a longer shutter speed (typically 1 second or more).
- Your shutter speed should be set to a one-over ISO value when shooting in direct sunlight. Let me give you an example. If you keep the ISO at 100, your shutter speed should be 1/100th (and/or f/16). If your ISO is 200, you should set the shutter speed to 1/200th.
- You can’t get more than 1/250 (synchronous speed) to achieve a richer sky. The solution is to increase the aperture.
- Reduce the shutter speed to 1/4000th to get a clear picture of the clouds.
Step 3. Improve lighting with power lights
Speed lights can only produce enough light to look natural if they are at their full power or with a bare bulb. However, a bare flash will not give you a flattering shot. You will need power lights to achieve a flattering tone. A bracket can be used to include multiple speed lights.
Step 4. Use HSS
High-speed sync flash allows you to use flash at shutter speeds much faster than your camera’s native sync. It can reduce the depth of field and freeze fast actions.
Conclusion
High-speed sync will give you more artistic control of your photos, especially if you’re shooting in aperture priority mode. You will only be able to take stunning pictures if you are proficient in using the flash. High-speed sync can overcome the limitations inherent in native flash sync. These features are a boon to modern-day photographers working in all fields.