The Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System (a.k.a. Macro Kit A) is a macro flash solution for i-TTL capable cameras that do not feature a built-in flash (e.g. D2X, D2H/D2Hs, F6). The kit is fully compatible with the Nikon Creative Lighting System and Advanced Wireless Lighting system when used with compatible cameras and/or flashes.
The kit's main components consist of the SX-1 Attachment Ring that attaches to the lens filter treads via an adapter ring (included), two SB-R200 wireless macro flash heads, and the SU-800 Commander Unit. The SX1 accommodates up to eight SB-R200 Speedlights off camera, and up to four on camera.
This solution enables excellent close-up lighting control with exceptional flexibility and innovative options.
Note! When using the SU-800 with cameras not compatible with i-TTL flash control, only close-up flash operation (using cords) is possible when used with the optional TTL Cord SC-30.
| Type | Flash-head with dedicated shoe for Attachment Ring SX-1 or Speedlight Stand AS-20 |
| Guide No. | 33' (10 m) at 24mm position (66'/20 m with both flash heads) |
| Angle of Coverage | 78° horizontal (24mm in 35mm format) |
| Vari-Power | No |
| TTL Dedication | Yes (i-TTL, D-TTL, TTL (film-based cameras), M (manual)) |
| Bounce Head | Yes |
| Swivel Head | No |
| Zoom Head | No |
| Off Camera Terminal | Yes, requires SC-30 TTL Cord |
| Recycle Time | 6 sec or less |
| Power Source | 1 x CR-123A 3V lithium battery |
| Dimensions | 3.1 x 3 x 2.2" (80 x 75 x 55mm) WxHxD |
| Weight | 4.2 oz (120 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Most Liked Positive Review
Very cool way to close up macro
I spent the weekend shooting pictures of bees, the lights worked great. Light was perfect even at only a few inches away from the subject. The ease of positioning the flash units on the...Read complete review
I spent the weekend shooting pictures of bees, the lights worked great. Light was perfect even at only a few inches away from the subject. The ease of positioning the flash units on the ring makes it very quick to readjust without having to hand hold the lights.
The lights also gave a nice depth to the shots, unlike ring lights where the picture feels flat.
Only thought here is did I need the commander. Technically no, I could have used the command functions built into my D80, but there is one big difference, I can see the commander in bright sunlight. I can't always say the same thing for the back of my D80. Also the commander is IR, so it doesn't add any extra light.
The only negative is the batteries. They are outrageously expensive. It would have been much nicer if they had used AA batteries like the other units.
There is also a flexible rod with special aligator clips on each end that will clip onto the ring, a tripod or lots of other stuff. The intention is to use it to hold a card out behind our subject to block the background. Unfortuantely the one thing it won't clip onto is the R200 flash units. That would be very cool sticking one out at the end of it so you didn't have to hold it by hand.
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Most Liked Negative Review
My overview of the R1C1 wireless close-up speedlight system
I have been a professional photographer for 30 plus years.the R1C1 was just what I was needing for on location macro photography.I did my home work prior to ordering.Thanks to B&H and the accessor...Read complete review
I have been a professional photographer for 30 plus years.the R1C1 was just what I was needing for on location macro photography.I did my home work prior to ordering.Thanks to B&H and the accessories menu i noted the SC-30 shoe cord,a $100.00 accessorie,and because I still own a F-5 camera body I ordered the cord also.I shoot with a Fuji S-3,and found out that the system would not work without the the SC-30 cord,and that makes the system NOT WIRELESS.You must have a camera body that has iTTL CLS.
Problems Encountered: The instruction manual is not user frindley.The troubleshooting reference information is not accurate the system does not come with batteries [3] three CR123a batteries are needed for the system to operated if your camera is not iTTL with CLS you must use TTL cord SC-30.
Previous Equivalent Items Owned: Studio lighting for macro photography
Items I Recommend: Nikon SC-30TTL cord
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Reviewed by 43 customers
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
So far I have only gotten to use this flash system a few times but Nikon's ingenuity and attention to detail still had time to astound me. The flashes are very easy to use and connect and field adjustments are a breeze. I definitely have enjoyed using this product and am most likely going to buy a third SB-R200 for backlighting.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
I am a wildlife and nature photographer (www.lalithphotography.com)has been a Nikon user throughout. Recently I have added Nikon Closeup Speedlight R1C1 system to my Nikon armoury. I am still in the process of using,but found it is a must for macro. Little worried about the cost of batteries; ideal if these were rechargeble.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
It was great. Wow!
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
This is a great close up light for macro work as well as close-in portrait work. I highly recommend it, but don't be intimidated by the big ol' box it comes in. It's a snap to set up and use.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
I have taken a lot of hand-held portraits of family using this system with a D700, and lenses used include an AF-S Nikkor 28-70mm f/2.8D, a Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 60mm f/2.8D, and I will also be using my Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8D. I like the seamless integration with my other CLS system flashes (SB-900, SB-800, and SB-700). The included filters for use on the SB-R200 make color correction fairly simple. Using the 60mm lens requires the use of the UR-5 adapter ring. Having the 60 mm lens with the attached SX-1 ring in close proximity to the camera body takes a little getting used to. While it is well balanced, it is not the most natural feeling.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
We raise monarchs and other butterflies during the summer as a family project. I like to take photos of them to document the metamorphosis process. The photos are shot in my gardens and in my art studio. I also take photos of my paintings and drawings for sale as giclees, posters and on merchandise. Therefore I've been putting together a camera system to meet fine art quality demands. I'm using a Nikon D90 with the AF Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G lens and the R1C1 flash system works perfectly with it. I was able to set it up and take photos quickly without having to read too much -- the illustrated guide helps.
It doesn't throw-off any heat like the studio lighting I was using -- a special consideration for shooting live insects that you intend to release back into the wilds of your garden. Unlike studio lighting, it can be used without too much fuss outdoors, but due to the total weight, I had to use a tripod (a monopod would be more useful if taken hiking). I had also considered LED lighting, but that isn't practical to take outside. Before I came across the R1C1, I was going to purchase the Nikon SB900, but many reviews warn about the flash overheating after about 40 shots . . . this is not acceptable when you're trying to capture a caterpillar pupating. I did not have any issues with overheating and the R1C1 system. I've taken several hundred photos and still haven't changed the batteries (NOT rechargeables).
I would agree with the other reviews that suggest getting a 3rd SB-R200 flash if you want background details with color balance or effects. It's not necessary on the 2D artwork, but for portraits it's a must. It will be my next purchase.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
This is a perfectly built unit for lighting directly in front of your macro lens. The ability to change the position of the flashes on the ring as well as the angle is inspiring. The possibility of adding additional flashes is comforting. The versatility of being able to use these units off the camera and in combination with existing flashes from my collection is astounding.
I was initially interested in a couple of the pieces individually. Once I started pricing them, I realized what a great deal the R1C1 was and decided that I had to have it.
I really think this item has been under-marketed.
Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
Great!
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
I have only tried the R1C1 a couple of times yet, but so far it meets all my expectations. Intuitive to use and versatile, since you have the two separate flashes. Build quality is good, and the whole kit comes in an well-padded case.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
This is a complete "Kit" with the SU-800 controller, two SB-200 flashes and every conceivable add-on any photographer might find useful all in a nice case with dividers for each of the items and room for a third SB-200 flash (recommended). This system is fully compatible with TTL "D" series Nikons up from the D-80 and with the Nikon F6 film camera and all Nikon TTL capable Flash Units. As the subject to flash distance is usually minimal, the result is fine modeling combined with excellent detail rendering.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
Awesome system, beuatiful colors.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
R1C1 Wireless Close-up system is expensive if all you want to do is close-up photography. I am getting into portrait photography and am using the SB-200 speed light with the wireless remote and figured I might as well get the kit so I might do both. Components are well constructed and it does come with everything you need. I did order another SB-200 and an adapter for a 60mm miro-lens since I have the lens. The case it comes in leaves a lot to be desired. The components are hard to get out of the case but it does hold everything plus.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
This is a very flexible lighting system for close-up. I use it primarily handheld in the field. With my D300 it gives consistently good results. The ability to vary the lighting ratios and position the flash heads contribute to good modeling on the subject. I would recommend the SU800 option even if the camera has CLS built in, because of the ease of setting lighting ratios. The Lithium batteries have a long life with lots of flashes and quick recycling.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
Excellent product, consistent output and useful for many situations. I have used used it for close up and fill in flash. The results are outstanding. I would love to recommend this for any photo enthusiastic.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
I purchased this system (with an additional SBR200) primarily for close-up work with my AF Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8 and it works perfectly. I also incorporate it into portraiture with an additional SBR200 and SB900 along with some lighting controls and again it works perfectly. Unlike a ring light the R1C1 allows greater control and versatility. Very nice system.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
This thing is amazing. Perfect for walking around in the woods taking pictures of the little stuff. Canon doesn't have anything that comes close to this. I just wish Nikon would make a 1-5x macro like the canon lens and I would be in heaven.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
I'm a dentist and I'm using this speedy light to work, it's 100% better than my old one
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
This takes macro photography to the next level.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
I recently purchased the Nikon Close-Up system as an addition to my two SB600 flashes. This completes my amateur flash configuration which enables me to set up four remote flashes or to use the R1C1 as a macro flash system.
The setup is extremely simple. It took no more than 15 minutes to be able to take pictures with macro setup after I unboxed everything.
I found it that flashes can be positioned without any major difficulties to get the light from the correct direction. It is true that this system does not give the same light as a ring flash, but it can hold 4 flashes at once. It might be a little bit heavy and cumbersome at that point.
I have even managed to take some nice portrait shots with the R1C1 flash system.
My close up shots of food items I have prepared for my Catering Menu's look very professional when I set up with my R1C1.
I strongly recommend the R1C1.
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Comments about Nikon R1C1 Wireless Close-Up Speedlight System:
A stunning product , it worth the $ , excellent for all kind of photography , not only macro , I use it with my D300s and D3s in both of then is enjoyable , not necessarily with !05mm f/2.8 also 24-70mm even with 70-200mm , one of the best acquisitions for my gear
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