Nikon F3 - A camera that is out of this world. No, literally, it went to space.
I never understood the Nikon hype. When I started in the film camera industry around three years ago, I watched a music video on YouTube by Sam Newton comparing Nikon DSLRs to a Potato. Although I am discussing 35mm film Nikons here, I admit that the association stuck and shaped my initial view of the brand.
However, before you Nikon fans start cursing me out, I wrote this article to debunk my “Nikon x Potato” association and explain why you should consider putting the Nikon F3 at the top of your film camera wishlists.
Before diving into the specifications, it's important to understand why the Nikon F3 became a cult classic.
During its development, single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras were undergoing a technological revolution, with camera houses racing to produce compact, reliable electronic SLRs. Nikon started with the Nikomat EL and ELW, which featured aperture priority and automatic exposure. However, it wasn't until the more compact Nikon FM and later on the more favourable FE that Nikon electronic SLRs gained attention. Yet, the challenge laid in winning over stubborn photographers who only trusted manual-based SLRs. In 1971, Nikon created the older sister of the Nikon F3, the Nikon F2. Which incorporated electronic circuits while retaining the mechanical shutter. However, with the brand's growing interest in electronics and the market success of the Nikomat EL, Nikon believed they could successfully integrate electronics into their flagship F-series, leading to the creation of the Nikon F3.
What changed the opinion of electronic cameras and earned the trust of manual photographers was partly due to a collaboration with NASA in 1978. Who asked Nikon for a camera that would perform well for the first space shuttle. Using the prototype of the Nikon F3, Nikon developed the camera duo ‘Big’ and ‘Small’ that matched NASA's brief of automatic exposure and the ability to take over 250 pictures, with film changing during photography. These cameras proved 100% reliability while on the space mission, solidifying the reputation of Nikon electronics. The Nikon F3 was released in March of 1980.
Brief overview of the Nikon F3 specifications
- Electronically controlled 35mm SLR focal-plane shutter camera
- Aperture-priority automatic and manual exposure controls
- Features an eye-level finder DE-2 but can be interchangeable with 3 other types;
- Split micro design of focusing screen but is interchangeable with 19 other types
- TTL center-weighted full aperture metering
- Meter range of EV 1 to 18 with ASA / ISO 100
- Film speed settings of ASA/ISO 12 to 6,400
- Shutter in automatic from 8 - 1/2000
- In manual 8 - 1/2000 sec including t b and x (1/80)
- Flash sync X setting only speedlight unit sync at 1/80 or less
What makes the Nikon F3 so good?
The Nikon F3 remains a top choice for film photographers, being one of the first professional SLRs with a reliable and trustworthy electronically controlled aperture priority and auto exposure system. Its sleek, durable design features professional-graded technology that stands the test of time. The minimalist design prioritises simplicity, with clear viewfinders and easy-to-use dials, while offering versatility and customisable accessories, such as viewfinders and motor drives.
The F3 featured higher-precision exposure control and TTL through-body-metering using the same sensor for both light detection and exposure measurement. Moreover, advances with the motor drive made it more than just an accessory, boosting speeds to 6 frames/sec from the previous four frames/sec. Reducing noise and enhanced performance for a variety of photographic situations.
What you see is what you get with the Nikon F3 - it's a dependable, versatile and original SLR camera that successfully won over stubborn manual photographers. The Nikon F3 is a film camera that appeals to both professional and hobbyist photographers, ensuring a clean photograph every time, no matter the user.
Let us know your thoughts on the potato… I mean, the Nikon F3 camera. You can buy the Nikon F3 via our shop here!