Best Flash for Nikon Zf

The Nikon Zf is an impressive full-frame mirrorless camera that produces stunning images. However, when shooting in low light or trying to balance bright and dark areas, the built-in flash may not be enough. Adding an external flash opens up a range of creative possibilities for photographers using the Zf. This guide will explore the top flashes compatible with the Nikon Zf and help you decide which model is right for your needs.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Flash

When shopping for a new flash, there are a few key factors to consider:

• Power/Guide Number – More power allows the flash to reach farther and illuminate larger areas. Guide number indicates flash power.
• Recycle Time – The time it takes the flash to recharge for the next shot. Faster is better.
• Wireless Capability – Many flashes can be triggered remotely off-camera. Useful for creative lighting.
• TTL Support – Through-the-lens metering allows the camera to automatically set flash power. Very convenient.
• Price – On-camera flashes range from around $200 to $600. Buy based on features needed.

Best Overall: Nikon SB-5000 AF Speedlight Flash – Check Price at Amazon/B&H Photo Video/Adorama

The SB-5000 is Nikon’s flagship on-camera shoe mount flash and the best match for the impressive capabilities of the Zf. It has a guide number of 113′ at ISO 100 and 200mm, making it the most powerful flash compatible with the Zf. The recycling time is an incredibly fast 1.2 seconds with NiMH batteries.

This flash supports advanced wireless control when used with other compatible flashes, allowing you to get very creative with off-camera lighting. It utilizes Nikon’s intelligent TTL flash control for perfectly balanced exposures. The SB-5000 also has an LED video light, cooling vents, and a dot-matrix LCD panel. It’s built to handle heavy professional use.

While very expensive, the SB-5000 is the top flash for taking full advantage of the Zf’s performance. It’s ideal for portraits, events, sports, and commercial work.

Best High-end: Godox V1Pro N Flash for Nikon – Check Price at Amazon/B&H Photo Video

Godox introduces an innovative on-camera flash with the V1Pro N for Nikon Z cameras. Distinguished by a round head and detachable sub-flash to enhance fill light, it brings pro features in a compact design. The sub-flash attaches to the front and functions in manual or TTL mode to improve portraits. This 76Ws flash offers i-TTL auto compatibility with Nikon Z cameras and a zoom range from 28-105mm. The head rotates 330° and tilts from -7 to 120° for creative flexibility.

Notable features include high-speed sync to 1/8000 second, front and rear curtain sync modes, and flash exposure compensation. The modeling lamp assists with composition and the USB-C port enables direct charging and firmware updates. Weighing only 20oz, the V1Pro N fits Nikon Z cameras without adding much bulk. It operates on Godox’s 2.4GHz wireless X system to sync with optional remote speedlights up to 328ft away. The magnetic surface also accepts Godox light modifiers for further adaptability. With robust output, TTL functionality, and loads of versatility, the Godox V1Pro N brings pro-level performance in a portable package for Nikon Z shooters.

Best Value: Godox V1 Flash for Nikon – Check Price at Amazon/B&H Photo Video/Adorama

For photographers looking to add a powerful flash at a more affordable price point, the Godox V1 is an excellent option. It has a guide number of 60m at ISO 100, which is strong enough for professional use. The V1 supports TTL metering and high-speed sync.

A key advantage of this flash is Godox’s 2.4GHz wireless X system. You can trigger the V1 remotely from Godox transmitters and integrate it into a wireless studio lighting setup. The interface is simple to use. Recycle time is a quick 0.1 to 2.2 seconds.

The Godox V1 runs on either proprietary Godox lithium batteries or AA batteries. At around $260, it provides stellar performance and features at a fraction of the cost of premium flashes. It’s a great match for hobbyists or enthusiasts using the Zf.

Compact and Lightweight: Nikon SB-500 AF Speedlight – Check Price at Amazon/B&H Photo Video/Adorama

The Nikon SB-500 AF Speedlight is a compact and lightweight external flash unit designed for Nikon’s mirrorless Z mount cameras. Weighing only 6.6 oz, the SB-500 is easy to carry around and mount on your camera. Despite its small size, it has a respectable guide number of 24m at ISO 100, allowing you to get decent flash power. The head can tilt up 90 degrees and rotate 180 degrees, giving you good flexibility in positioning the light.

The SB-500 supports Nikon’s sophisticated i-TTL flash metering for accurate exposures. It can act as a master to wirelessly trigger other flash units if needed. The flash recycles quickly at around 2 seconds at full power. It runs on just 2 AA batteries so battery life is limited to around 100-200 shots. Build quality feels decent though not top notch. At around $250, the SB-500 gives Nikon mirrorless shooters a conveniently sized flash for portable lighting on a budget. It’s a nice complement for everyday shooting though pros may want a higher-powered unit. Overall, a solid flash for casual Nikon Z shooters.

Most Versatile: Godox AD200Pro – Check Price at Amazon/B&H Photo Video/Adorama

For photographers who like to move their flash off-camera, the Godox AD200Pro is incredibly versatile. This lithium-ion powered flash accepts a range of different heads for flexibility: an on-camera head, a bare bulb head, and a strip box head. The modular system lets you shape the light precisely.

With the standard reflector head, the guide number reaches 197′ at ISO 100. The AD200Pro recycles in an impressive 0.9 seconds. It can be triggered easily from Godox 2.4GHz wireless transmitters as part of a studio lighting setup.

The real advantage is the ability to swap heads for different lighting needs. The AD200Pro unlocks the full creative potential of flash photography. It’s powerful enough for professional shoots but priced affordably for most.

Conclusion:

The Nikon Zf has immense capabilities, and adding an external flash opens up creative possibilities from portraits to still life photography. The best overall flash is the Nikon SB-5000 with its unmatched power and performance to match the Zf. For those seeking high-end third party options, the innovative Godox V1Pro N delivers pro features in a compact, rounded head design with a detachable fill flash. More budget-friendly alternatives like the Godox V1 provide impressive output at just a fraction of the cost. For lightweight portability, the Nikon SB-500 packs decent power into a compact form factor ideal for casual shooters. The modular Godox AD200Pro gives shooters the most versatility with swappable heads for on and off-camera lighting. Any of these flashes will empower Zf photographers to better balance bright and dark scenes and unlock new creative potential. Evaluate your budget, intended use, and favorite features to determine which advanced flash is the best fit for taking your Zf photography to the next level with enhanced lighting capabilities.