Nikon has a long and rich history when it comes to photography, they have made some of the most iconic film cameras and are still creating exceptional digital cameras today. Let’s not forget about the F-mount lenses too, some of the finest glasses ever produced. I have always been drawn to the style and ergonomics of their cameras, especially their SLRs (Single-lens reflex) and DSLRs (Digital Single-lens reflex). So when I decided last year to collect and review film cameras, there was no doubt the majority was going to be Nikon.
Today, let me share with you my humble Nikon film camera collection to start 2024 – all of them SLRs. I wish I could get my hands on one of their rangefinder film cameras, but those are rare and expensive. And yes, I purposely added 2024 in the title because this collection will grow this year, or maybe not, but why not? Is my wife here? Who’s asking anyway?
Nikon FM and FM2
The Nikon FM and FM2 could be the most popular Nikon SLRs in this list and the only fully mechanical cameras (no batteries needed to operate). Both cameras are known for their beautiful and iconic design as well as reliability. Only offering full manual controls, these cameras are no BS cameras perfect if you want to learn the technical side of photography. As far as I can tell, the only major difference between the two is that the Nikon FM2 offers a faster shutter speed of up to 1/4000th of a second, something that is unheard of in a fully mechanical camera.
See photos taken with the Nikon FM here
Nikon N2020 | Nikon F-501
The Nikon N2020, also known as the Nikon f-501 outside of North America, was Nikon’s first autofocus SLR camera. Aside from the obvious historical significance, I love this camera because for me, it shows Nikon’s biggest innovation from the old Nikon F/FM series cameras to a more modern camera. The design is also one of the more unique designs you can find on an SLR, a perfect mix of the old and new as I like to call it. Not just the looks, but the camera’s functionality as well. For one, it has an auto film advance and a manual film rewind, talk about being unique! This camera has an older brother the Nikon N2000 which is technically the same camera minus the autofocus.
See photos taken with the Nikon N2020 here
Nikon F-801
My favorite Nikon film SLR just because it fits my hands perfectly. The Nikon F-801 in my opinion, is the first Nikon SLR with reliable autofocus. Although not as popular as older Nikon film SLRs, I really like the design of this camera, the red stripe beside the grip reminds me of a Ferrari. You can also heavily feel the 1980’s/1990’s vibe of this camera. I feel like if Mask Rider Black was into photography, this would have been his camera.
See photos taken with the Nikon F-801 here
Nikon F90x / N90s
A notch higher than the Nikon f-801, the Nikon F90x/N90s is a professional-level SLR camera during its time. Not the biggest when it comes to dimension among my Nikon collection, but definitely the chunkiest. This model also has a rich history because NASA modified a Nikon N90s w/ Kodak DCS 460C digital back to be used on both the Space Shuttle programs and on the International Space Station. The only camera I haven’t shot in my Nikon collection, I can’t wait to take this big boy out.
Nikon F100
The Nikon F100 was a professional Nikon film SLR back in the day and was usually a “smaller” companion to the Nikon F4 and Nikon F5. This camera is packed with features and functionality that can compete with any modern DSLRs today. With fast and accurate autofocus, an awesome metering system, lots of customization, and built like a tank, the Nikon F100 is a jampacked camera if you are looking for an all-around, reliable film camera – if you don’t mind the size.
See photos taken with the Nikon F100 here
Nikon F55
My first Nikon SLR camera and the first camera I ever owned. This one is special as my Mom bought it for me when I was in college. Mostly made out of plastic, this camera is light and small compared to my other SLRs. Mainly marketed as a consumer camera, one should not underestimate the Nikon F55 because it is a capable camera. It only comes in a silver body, which I think adds to its charm.
See photos taken with the Nikon F55 here
So there you have it, my Nikon SLR collection. Like I said, I wish I could get my hands on Nikon’s rangefinder cameras because those a beautiful too. Also missing here is the Nikon F/F2 and maybe a Nikonos then my Nikon heart will be full. Again, thank you for reading the blog and please don’t forget to follow me on my socials. You can also subscribe so you’ll get notified when I have a new post! Salamat
King 