Why won’t a Nikon SB-5000 flash fire?
Answer
An SB-5000 that will not fire is usually in the wrong mode, not fully locked on the hot shoe, disabled in camera custom settings, or needs a battery reset—not necessarily a dead flash.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not look into the flash head when testing; the burst is extremely bright.
Follow these steps
Remount and lock the flash
Turn the camera and flash off, remove the SB-5000, reseat it fully on the accessory shoe, and lock it securely before powering both back on.
You should see: The camera detects the flash and the flash ready indicator appears.
Check wireless master mode
On the flash menu, confirm it is not set only as a master for optical or radio wireless control when a direct on-camera flash burst is needed.
You should see: The flash is in a standard on-camera mode that can fire the tube.
Re-enable flash in camera custom settings
On the camera, open Custom Settings related to flash and make sure flash function is not set to canceled or disabled.
You should see: Flash is allowed by the camera body.
Check for OFF or canceled flash settings on the speedlight
Review the SB-5000 menus for any flash OFF, canceled, or suppressor-style setting and return it to normal TTL or manual flash.
You should see: The flash LCD shows a ready state for normal firing.
Battery reset the flash
Turn the flash off, remove the batteries, wait about one minute, reinstall them, power on, and test a shot.
You should see: The flash fires, or further service is needed if it still will not.
Not sure this is the right page? Check here
0 of 5 checked
Extra tips
What to look for: No flash burst when taking a photo, possible camera messages about flash function canceled, and whether the flash LCD shows ready
Before you change anything: Install fresh batteries in the flash. Confirm the camera is in a still-photo mode that allows flash. Note whether the flash is intended for on-camera use or wireless control. Avoid forcing the hot-shoe mount.