SB400 or SB600 for a D50?

[JulieAnna]

I'm looking to buy my first flash and I'm torn between the SB400 and SB600 for my Nikon D50.

I'll use the flash for typical indoor lighting situations, but a big reason I want something more powerful than the built-in is to shoot action outdoors in the dark. I go hog hunting behind dogs at night. It's an unpredictable situation that requires speed and doesn't have a lot of stuff to bounce light off of. This is an example of the kind of pictures I've been getting that definitely need more power to their flash: http://www.flickr.com/photos/juliean...7604771722991/.

Given that type of shot, what should I go for? I like the compact size of the SB400, and they might get banged up so cheaper is very good. But the SB600 is on sale on Amazon for $190, which is only $60 more than the SB400, and I know it has more features. For now the SB800 is not an option. Thoughts?

[photonewb]

I've tried to avoid bashing any equipment, especially since I'm still so new IMO, but I'm going to tell you this...don't waste your time or money with the 400. It's a very small flash which is it's only positive in my mind. I purchased one to put on a D40 and thought it would be just fine. Well I very quickly learned it just wasn't going to cut it. You can't use it as anything other than a glorified pop up flash with tilt. It's not usable off camera, you can't change the power, and it only tilts upwards.

IMO spend the couple of extra dollars and get the 600. Not only will the 600 offer you more ON camera options, but it will also allow you to start attempting off camera work. It will give you a lot more room to grow, things the 400 will not. I very highly recommend the 600, I think you'd be much happier with it than if you got the 400.

[amadjuster]

I love my 600. No experience with the 400 but it is pretty small and not many extras. You can pick up a 600 very reasonably and it really has a lot of extra stuff and I just can't bring myself to pay the $$ for the 800.

[Titaniumblade]

Be done with it and get the SB800, you will upgrade anyway, so spend the money now, learn the flash and you will be ready when you upgrade your camera later. Again, it makes sense to learn the SB800 and not waste your money upgrading flash's. Not inteneded to bash anyone who took a different route...Just looking to max your time and money in the long run for ya..

[Joe_Lorenzini]

The SB-400 won't give you the results you are expecting. The SB-600 will.

_/oe

[ekohl]

get the 800, and you can get a 600 later. I had both when i had my d50, and used the 800 as a "comander" to remotely fire the 600 for outdoor fill when i needed something off camera.

[dtown]

I'd get the SB-400 if the on-camera flash was using up my battery or wanted to bounce, if you also need more power and/or adjustability then the SB-600 is what you need.