Professional photographers typically remain loyal to one brand of camera and accessories.
There are ways to make some camera accessories work across brand names, such as using adapter kits to make Nikon lenses work on Canon SLR cameras. Mixing and matching mechanical components isn't always the best idea, and using a Nikon speedlight flash on a Canon Digital Rebel Xsi could ruin both devices. The flash might slide easily into the Canon's hotshoe, but the voltage requirements are different. Using the two devices together is risky; it's better to buy a Canon-compatible flash.
Compatibility
The Nikon Speedlight SB-600 works with the Canon Xsi, up to a point. There are severe limitations to its functionality. The speedlight should flash when you take a photo with your Canon, but the camera and flash won't communicate with each other in any way besides the actual snap of the flash. You must use full manual mode on your flash, which means significant trial and error to find the correct exposure.
Voltage
Nikon and Canon create their cameras and flashes to work with specific voltages. The Canon Xsi is designed to work with 6v flashes, while Nikon speedlights are set up for 12v. Using the Canon Xsi with the Nikon SB-600 creates the risk of burning the electronics inside the flash as well as those that manage the Canon's flash communication system.
Limitations
A major breakthrough in flash technology, through-the-lens, or TTL, metering, won't work when using a Nikon speedlight with a Canon Xsi camera. This means you will have to use a complicated mathematical formula to determine the necessary aperture setting based on your lighting conditions and the distance to the subject. This adds significant time and trouble to your photo shoot. Also, you won't be able to trigger the Nikon flash remotely. Nikon uses radio signals for a remote trigger, but Canon uses an infrared sensor. The two technologies are not compatible.
Alternate Flash
If you own a Nikon SB-600 and a Canon Xsi, the best idea is to sell the flash and use that money to purchase a compatible Canon flash. There is a decent resell market for Nikon Speedlights, so you can use that money to offset the investment in a Canon flash, such as the Canon 430EX Speedlite. The 430EX offers many of the same features as the SB-600, including a flash head that rotates up, left and right; advanced zoom range; and improved white balance accuracy.
Tags: Canon flash, best idea, camera accessories, Canon camera, Nikon SB-600
