Nikon SB-400 AF Speedlight Flash for Nikon DSLR Cameras - Compact & Powerful Flash for Portraits, Events & Low-Light Photography

I actually paid almost double what it originally sold for before Nikon decided to pull the plug on it.And it is worth every penny of it.I take photos for both personal and professional purposes.I own more cameras and lenses that I care to admit publicly, including several "high end" flashes.Why this one?Two sets of reasons:First set (somewhat unique):One of my workhorses is a retro-style Nikon DSLR camera model called the Df.This camera has the look and all the knobs and levers that old SLRs did but the guts of the most modern (digital) DSLR.Built like a tank, it still has menus you can use if you are so inclined, but you can also look at it and or tweak all the dials and knobs.Like an older SLR it does NOT have a built-in flash.I do NOT want to go against this combination of simplicity and power by putting a gigantic high end flash on top of it that is 2X+ longer and heavier and much more complex than this one is.Second set of reasons:It has virtually all the features I look for in an separate flash unit:- great power (high number)- great battery life- highly reliable- very quick recycle time- batteries that are cheap, long lasting, readily available (easily found on on-a-pinch)- automatic control with complete camera interoperability- adjustable head !!! (up / down / etc)- includes a very attractive, compact and durable case to protect it when not in use.What it lacks, I can do without most of the time: and that is remote commander-style master/slave control of other flash units.Which I only use on special glamour shots.Nikon made a huge mistake discontinuing it, but you can fix that - however you'll have to either buy it used or if you want it new (like I did) you must order it from a merchant in Amazon or elsewhere that gets it from Japan where it is still for sale.The amazon seller I used, got it me in relatively short time and in perfect condition. Which for whatever reason included hand folded origami "thank you" notes. (a nice touch)Of course if you or someone you know will be traveling to Japan, have them get you a copy.The price is higher than original because in a Capitalist system, high demand drives the price up but in my mind it is still a value purchase. Everyone in the know wants this flash. It combines extreme functionality in a very very small package.The model Nikon put out to replace it has been neutered, so your real options for external flashes are still much more expensive. Larger too.Most of the time I shoot natural light with no flash.But when I do need a flash, this is the one I use.And it fits in just about every pocket of my clothes so all I have to do is pick it up and stash it.Even when I'm NOT carrying a bag.Now imagine all this at half the price (its original price).Nikon, wake up and smell the coffee.Bring this item back into regular markets.