The real advantage of the FM3a was not its 1/4000th, as that was available on the Fm2 since the 80s, it is the unbelievable electronic/mechanical shutter. Most cameras were one or the other. The fe2 was all electronic, which has its advantages, such as aperture priority. The Fm2 was all mechanical, which had the advantage of not relying on batteries except for the meter. Nikon knocked it out of the park by combining both in one camera. It was available in the US, by the way. My friend bought one brand new and still has it. Amazing camera, for sure.
The FE2 is probably what I'll end up with since it's 150 on ebay. And this camera is 700-800 on ebay. Also, the FE2 can shoot manually at 250th of a second if your battery dies. Which I don't plan on that being a common thing. Ya, if I could afford this camera, that would be a no brainer. But the FE2 at 1/5th of the price... that'll have to be the cam to get.
The FM3a is a fantastic camera and, as you said, it is close to perfection. I love mine. Now, just to clarify, if you're on a budget and just want a high maximum shutter speed capable all-mechanical body, the FM2 and FM2n may be the way to go. Same mechanical maximum 1/4000 of a second fastest shutter speed but they do lack the electronic AE mode. FM2s can be had for about a third the price of an FM3a but if you are fortunate enough to be able to afford an FM3a, get one. You will not regret it!
FM3A was the culmination of everything Nikon had learned about film cameras and put it into one camera, I’ve always thought it was a better camera than the F3! The Pentax LX is much the same with an electronic shutter and manual backup down to 1/60 second.
F3 is in a class of its own. Every Nikon pro camera has its own unique character. FM3a came out at a time when I had lost all interest in photography. Things happen in life.
Great video! The FE2 also does exposure lock. The FM3a is basically a FE2 with the option of fully mechanical shutter speeds. You can pick up five FE2’s for the price of one FM3a, but it’s still such a cool camera to own.
Yes great camera. The FE also have a exposure lock for cheaper even though the mechanical speed is limited (note that from tests I figured that electronic max speed reaches at least 1/4000th). Great CZcams channel!
@@gillesf9163 i dont get it. From tests you've done on the Nikon FE? [not FE2] - you realize it's shutter speed actually reaches 1/400 instead of 1/1000? You didn't write that too clearly
@@eladbari hi I have shot a scene requiring F5.6 @ 1/1000 and then took two shot f/4 and f2.8 The negatives came put with same exposure. That means that speeds were close too 1/2000th and 1/4000th Gilles
@@gillesf9163 Wait, but what you mean is that you over exposed the image, while staying at 1/1000 . So, you shot @ +1 and +2 stops and the images came out still nice. This doesnt mean that the shutter speed of the FE reached 1/2000 & 1/4000 even though it showed 1/1000. It's capped at 1/1000. Can you hear a different "faster" shutter sounds while the camera still shows 1/1000 ?
@@eladbari I just opened up 1stop and then 2 stops to see if the negatives were over exposed when compared to the first one and they weren't. That why I came to the conclusion that the shutter fired close to (and I can't say exactly of course) 1/2000 and 1/4000. I don't think that one can distinct the sound difference between those speeds. Anyways I shoot quite frequently street in aperture priority and results are consistent Gilles
The mechanical FM2, released in 1982, also had a top shutter speed of 1/4000. The wonder of this camera is the hybrid electronic/mechanic shutter that allows for automation while still having the whole range of shutter speeds without a battery
The Nikon FM3A of 2001-2006 is one of the rare examples of old film cameras that its introductory price is the same of used ones many many years laters. Of course there is a reason for that and is called CZcams.
When I first started out with 35mm, I acquired the Nikon N2020 from the 80s; it was Nikon's first autofocus functioning camera and had an electronic film advance. As I became more adept, I felt it was time to drop some coin on a real, indestructible workhorse. So I picked up the Nikon FM3a in the greater part of a decade ago. And holy cow- it is (in my opinion) the BEST 35mm camera I have ever used. It has been my go-to camera for just about everything! My model has seen better days cosmetically, but at least I'm getting my use out of it. It is top-notch build quality and will likely last me a lifetime. The price of this camera has definitely gone up almost double since I picked mine up, but in the event that it ever died on me beyond repair, I would no doubt replace it no matter what the cost! You can't put a price on such a (nearly) perfect film camera such as this one- and it's creeping up there with some Leica models so grab yours sooner rather than later!
Good camera but for me the FM2 takes the crown. Used this when I was a military photographer in Northern Norway in temperatures as low as -35 and it worked a treat. Also it was as tough as rock and could take tremendous punishment, aside from Norway I used it in desert and jungle enviorements and even when digital came along I still kept one with an old 50mm lens as backup along with a few rolls of fp4.
@@ElMikey225th Sorry for delay! On the occasions when the battery packed up I used dead reckoning, the light in Norway was pretty constant, (light or shade), and my time in the job gave me the experience to know that it was a 1/250 sec f5.6 kind of day, (at 400 iso:).
Ran into this video by accident..well not really I'm a Nikon film SLR camera fan..I have an FM since I purchased it new in 1980. As each upgraded/improved version of the FM came out..diligently reviewed the specs and test articles decided my FM was plenty enough SLR camera for me so passed on upgrading and hung onto my FM. No regrets. The entire line of FM's are great cameras. Love that fluffy bunny in the opening segment of this video. Good video.
For a fraction of the cost, the FA does all that and has matrix metering, program, aperture and shutter priority modes. And has a 1/250th mechanical speed, which I think is more than enough as the batteries last forever
I'm lucky to own two of these, one in black (with a nice patina after use) and one in chrome. Both have non-functioning light meters and are cosmetically poor, but these beauties give a lot of joy with amazing images. Using them and owning them is a charm, as they are the most beautiful (to me) of all the Nikkormat/FM/FE series cameras and the most technologically best (being made in the 2000s is also a benefit to their build quality and mechanical youth, especially that this was a "handicraft" project by the staff at Mito Nikon, who even rehired retired engineers to build this camera). I also feel myself more comfortable using these cameras compared to my Leicas and other cameras, probably because growing up I consider this model as my "dream" camera.
The FM3a is for all practical purposes a FE2 with shutter manual timing adapted from the FM2. It's high prices, both new and used,reflect monetary inflation, in that a FE2, adjusted for inflation, would have cost just as much new. It is/was a last chance to pick up a Nikon built old style. Have owned the full range of FM/FE models has they were introduced, and hanging on to my FE2 still, I'm good without a FM3a, but for a Nikon owner of post FE2 models, highly recommended.
It’s true when you say that there is no perfect film camera, but this one is close! It would be perfect if the shutter could be less noisy, but if we don’t want a rangefinder I don’t think it’s possible... The SLRs that have been less noisy are full of foam inside that deteriorate over time and make the camera less reliable... With this camera I also like the wonderfull focusing screen. I have a FM3a and 2 FM2. An advice to those who have a FM2: change the K2 screen for a K3 one!
Could never afford this and by the time it came out I was using the AF cameras. I did love my FE and my brother's FE2. I never liked the viewfinder of the FM and FM2 but I loved the intuitive swinging needle of the FE/FE2.
This is my perfect SLR too! I traded it once, immediately regretted it and bought another one. I love my M2, but honestly the FM3a gets taken out 90% of the time
Hi after few months using a Nikon F3 HP I found my perfect badboy ! I suddenly thought wow this is made for a photographer not for fashion and trends !
Nikon cameras of 70s and 80s were designed for photographers with built to match. Nikon AIs lenses were a prime example. Mostly had 52 mm filters and a Nikon lens made in the 80s would still work perfectly even on a Nikon D850. That was and is the legend of Nikon. Digital has made consumer electronics manufacturers like Sony and Panasonic , giants of camera world. Shame.
Although I prefer rangefinder style viewfinders I have to admit the FE and FM Nikons trigger my GAS! Gotta go browse eBay so thanks for the review and see ya! :)
When it comes to film I grab my F5, but if you are looking for something similar to the FM3a the FA is excellent and a quarter of the price. ( er....the FA sometimes has a bad chip that drains the batteries in two days... so take lots of batteries, or buy the MD15 motor drive that also powers the camera.)
I was thinking about getting one of these, but am disappointed about the frame advance lever needing to be sticking out in order for the shutter button to be operable. I have always used my left eye to look through cameras, and that lever would be poking me in the face. I guess I will try practicing using my right eye instead for awhile to see if I can make it work.
Exposure lock is a great feature, I didn't know it was not that common. I have a Fujica AX-3 which has AEL mode and you can just point at the shadows, half-press the shutter until you've recomposed and taken your shot. :) If I understood, I guess on the Nikon you push in the lock button while you're metering, instead of changing the "mode", different way of achieving the same thing I guess? In a way that sounds handier and in a way not - you don't have to fiddle with "modes" as much but you do have to press an extra button... I don't know which I'd prefer! :D
He's back! Good to see you. Lots of editing in this video. I'm sure it's a pain to do but the cuts do make watching easier. For me, the question of the right (film) camera honestly comes down to ergonomics. Also, it depends on if you're talking manual focus or auto. For manual, I love the Canon AE-1 program for ergonomics. It fits my hand so well and it's light without feeling like plastic. The canon 50mmm fd lens also rocks. Nikon manual focus film bodies up until the F3 don't have that grip on the right-hand side. Hurts my hand. Or maybe I'm a crybaby! Haha. However, I love the chunky feel of my FE2. It's like having a hunk of metal in my hand. Great for self-defense. FM3A looks cool and that's an interesting feature. I'm not sure why film camera prices are staying so high/increasing in some cases. Must be the collectors.
Certain Exposures AE-1P & A-1 look like they have similar pricing on eBay, which hover around the $100 mark. The A-1 might be around $20 more on average. Both are great cameras though, with a bargain on most FD lenses.
Certain Exposures the New F1 seems like it would be a cool camera. I’d probably buy the Old F1 though, since it’s cheaper and I think it kind of looks a little cooler. Both would be great to own though! :D
The FE2 also has exposure lock, you just push the self timer lever towards the lens. The main attraction to the fm3a for me is the more reliable shutter than the fe2, if my fe2 does die and can't be fixed I'll hunt down an fm3a.
what about an F100 if you like Nikon? It's absolutely bombproof. Ok, so it's completely battery dependant but it's got all the bells and whistles of a modern camra DSLR.
I own the fm3A, awesome photos and all manual. The light meter is spot on, but an experienced doesn't need one. This camera works in sub-freezing and desert climates perfectly fine. This camera will work when most others will fail. Except for the Pentax K 1000, it's rock solid also.
Perhaps back in '18 you could score an FM3a for about $700, but now prices are climbing and they're getting crazy stupid expensive. You can still get a good clean FM2 or an F3 for that, but, as of 2022, budget around $12-1500 for an FM3a.
Not if your lucky man, I just picks another one up recently for $900 AUD I’m working on a “revisited” video of sorts on the camera again. It truly is the best SLR you can get your hands on IMO
what's the point in titling the video "last mechanical SLR" but you like the camera because it aperture priority. the last mechanical nikon slr was the fm2
Okey, you really have to try a Leica M5! You’ve got giant hands so you’ll know to appreciate the size and ergonomics and the light meter and light meter display are so good that you won’t need an aperture priority mode.
If only it had 100% coverage high eyepoint viewfinder, then it would have been perfect. Love that match needle meter display. Great camera, but if you wear glasses, forget it. F3 is the only option.
Great Nikon, but priced high due to demand/limited production. For the same price, I rather have an FM+FE+F3+F. 4 bodies with 4 different film/lens combo.
with the Leica you can hand hold much slower shutter speeds (1/8 e.g.) which in my opinion is much more useful than two faster shutter speeds: as you alwas can cut some light with ND filter but never add some light...
@@manor666m tradera.se is a Swedish equivalent of ebay. There was another chrome one for 1200 dollars but hen this came up for 400 and I just clicked "buy now"(no bidding) and thought it was gonna be broken or in bad shape.
Nikon FM2n is a superior camera. Has everything you need and nothing you don't. If you need auto exposure shooting film in 2024, just shoot a digital camera.
everything is great except that needle meter! should have kept the meter the - 0 + style which lit up. this camera sucks in low light. near impossible to read the meter when light is not on your side. only reason im sticking to the FM2
If Nikon reintroduced the FM3a they would be flying off the shelfs. It’s a masterpiece.
Seriously. People still want mechanical cameras. If they dropped an FM3A or FM4 they would sell out everywhere. I love these old tank like bodies.
The real advantage of the FM3a was not its 1/4000th, as that was available on the Fm2 since the 80s, it is the unbelievable electronic/mechanical shutter. Most cameras were one or the other. The fe2 was all electronic, which has its advantages, such as aperture priority. The Fm2 was all mechanical, which had the advantage of not relying on batteries except for the meter.
Nikon knocked it out of the park by combining both in one camera. It was available in the US, by the way. My friend bought one brand new and still has it. Amazing camera, for sure.
100% viewfinder coverage is the most important thing for me..
The FE2 is probably what I'll end up with since it's 150 on ebay. And this camera is 700-800 on ebay. Also, the FE2 can shoot manually at 250th of a second if your battery dies. Which I don't plan on that being a common thing. Ya, if I could afford this camera, that would be a no brainer. But the FE2 at 1/5th of the price... that'll have to be the cam to get.
My 1st camera ever since 2005 and still my best one. Never ever abandoned film.
The FM3a is a fantastic camera and, as you said, it is close to perfection. I love mine. Now, just to clarify, if you're on a budget and just want a high maximum shutter speed capable all-mechanical body, the FM2 and FM2n may be the way to go. Same mechanical maximum 1/4000 of a second fastest shutter speed but they do lack the electronic AE mode. FM2s can be had for about a third the price of an FM3a but if you are fortunate enough to be able to afford an FM3a, get one. You will not regret it!
Great in depth review mate. This cam is a wonder, getting the best of FE and FM. No doubt one of the perfect SLRs.
FM3A was the culmination of everything Nikon had learned about film cameras and put it into one camera, I’ve always thought it was a better camera than the F3! The Pentax LX is much the same with an electronic shutter and manual backup down to 1/60 second.
F3 is in a class of its own. Every Nikon pro camera has its own unique character. FM3a came out at a time when I had lost all interest in photography. Things happen in life.
Great video! The FE2 also does exposure lock. The FM3a is basically a FE2 with the option of fully mechanical shutter speeds. You can pick up five FE2’s for the price of one FM3a, but it’s still such a cool camera to own.
Yes great camera. The FE also have a exposure lock for cheaper even though the mechanical speed is limited (note that from tests I figured that electronic max speed reaches at least 1/4000th).
Great CZcams channel!
@@gillesf9163 i dont get it. From tests you've done on the Nikon FE? [not FE2] - you realize it's shutter speed actually reaches 1/400 instead of 1/1000?
You didn't write that too clearly
@@eladbari hi
I have shot a scene requiring F5.6 @ 1/1000 and then took two shot f/4 and f2.8 The negatives came put with same exposure. That means that speeds were close too 1/2000th and 1/4000th
Gilles
@@gillesf9163 Wait, but what you mean is that you over exposed the image, while staying at 1/1000 .
So, you shot @ +1 and +2 stops and the images came out still nice.
This doesnt mean that the shutter speed of the FE reached 1/2000 & 1/4000 even though it showed 1/1000. It's capped at 1/1000.
Can you hear a different "faster" shutter sounds while the camera still shows 1/1000 ?
@@eladbari I just opened up 1stop and then 2 stops to see if the negatives were over exposed when compared to the first one and they weren't. That why I came to the conclusion that the shutter fired close to (and I can't say exactly of course) 1/2000 and 1/4000.
I don't think that one can distinct the sound difference between those speeds. Anyways I shoot quite frequently street in aperture priority and results are consistent
Gilles
The mechanical FM2, released in 1982, also had a top shutter speed of 1/4000. The wonder of this camera is the hybrid electronic/mechanic shutter that allows for automation while still having the whole range of shutter speeds without a battery
If you need "automation" on a film camera in 2024 you're missing the entire point of shooting film
The Nikon FM3A of 2001-2006 is one of the rare examples of old film cameras that its introductory price is the same of used ones many many years laters. Of course there is a reason for that and is called CZcams.
this is my dream camera!!!
When I first started out with 35mm, I acquired the Nikon N2020 from the 80s; it was Nikon's first autofocus functioning camera and had an electronic film advance. As I became more adept, I felt it was time to drop some coin on a real, indestructible workhorse. So I picked up the Nikon FM3a in the greater part of a decade ago. And holy cow- it is (in my opinion) the BEST 35mm camera I have ever used. It has been my go-to camera for just about everything! My model has seen better days cosmetically, but at least I'm getting my use out of it. It is top-notch build quality and will likely last me a lifetime. The price of this camera has definitely gone up almost double since I picked mine up, but in the event that it ever died on me beyond repair, I would no doubt replace it no matter what the cost! You can't put a price on such a (nearly) perfect film camera such as this one- and it's creeping up there with some Leica models so grab yours sooner rather than later!
Good camera but for me the FM2 takes the crown. Used this when I was a military photographer in Northern Norway in temperatures as low as -35 and it worked a treat. Also it was as tough as rock and could take tremendous punishment, aside from Norway I used it in desert and jungle enviorements and even when digital came along I still kept one with an old 50mm lens as backup along with a few rolls of fp4.
tony james Did you use a light meter or sunny 16 rule instead of using batteries for the light meter ? I’m new to film so just wondering . Thanks !!
The FM3A is an FM2 and an FE2, the best of two worlds, of course at a price that not everyone wants or can afford
@@ElMikey225th Sorry for delay! On the occasions when the battery packed up I used dead reckoning, the light in Norway was pretty constant, (light or shade), and my time in the job gave me the experience to know that it was a 1/250 sec f5.6 kind of day, (at 400 iso:).
Ran into this video by accident..well not really I'm a Nikon film SLR camera fan..I have an FM since I purchased it new in 1980. As each upgraded/improved version of the FM came out..diligently reviewed the specs and test articles decided my FM was plenty enough SLR camera for me so passed on upgrading and hung onto my FM. No regrets. The entire line of FM's are great cameras. Love that fluffy bunny in the opening segment of this video. Good video.
Great video.
For a fraction of the cost, the FA does all that and has matrix metering, program, aperture and shutter priority modes. And has a 1/250th mechanical speed, which I think is more than enough as the batteries last forever
I'm lucky to own two of these, one in black (with a nice patina after use) and one in chrome. Both have non-functioning light meters and are cosmetically poor, but these beauties give a lot of joy with amazing images. Using them and owning them is a charm, as they are the most beautiful (to me) of all the Nikkormat/FM/FE series cameras and the most technologically best (being made in the 2000s is also a benefit to their build quality and mechanical youth, especially that this was a "handicraft" project by the staff at Mito Nikon, who even rehired retired engineers to build this camera). I also feel myself more comfortable using these cameras compared to my Leicas and other cameras, probably because growing up I consider this model as my "dream" camera.
You should try the FE2. Came out before the FM3a and is a brilliant camera. It also has exposure lock.
The FM3a is for all practical purposes a FE2 with shutter manual timing adapted from the FM2. It's high prices, both new and used,reflect monetary inflation, in that a FE2, adjusted for inflation, would have cost just as much new. It is/was a last chance to pick up a Nikon built old style. Have owned the full range of FM/FE models has they were introduced, and hanging on to my FE2 still, I'm good without a FM3a, but for a Nikon owner of post FE2 models, highly recommended.
It’s true when you say that there is no perfect film camera, but this one is close!
It would be perfect if the shutter could be less noisy, but if we don’t want a rangefinder I don’t think it’s possible... The SLRs that have been less noisy are full of foam inside that deteriorate over time and make the camera less reliable...
With this camera I also like the wonderfull focusing screen. I have a FM3a and 2 FM2. An advice to those who have a FM2: change the K2 screen for a K3 one!
Pretty sure thats about $900 worth of t2 with the prices they charge ay
Could never afford this and by the time it came out I was using the AF cameras. I did love my FE and my brother's FE2. I never liked the viewfinder of the FM and FM2 but I loved the intuitive swinging needle of the FE/FE2.
This is my perfect SLR too! I traded it once, immediately regretted it and bought another one. I love my M2, but honestly the FM3a gets taken out 90% of the time
After watching this video randomly, I said to myself "I like this guy"
Hahaha thanks mate
Me too, same. Lol!
Hi after few months using a Nikon F3 HP I found my perfect badboy ! I suddenly thought wow this is made for a photographer not for fashion and trends !
Nikon cameras of 70s and 80s were designed for photographers with built to match. Nikon AIs lenses were a prime example. Mostly had 52 mm filters and a Nikon lens made in the 80s would still work perfectly even on a Nikon D850. That was and is the legend of Nikon. Digital has made consumer electronics manufacturers like Sony and Panasonic , giants of camera world. Shame.
@@lensman5762 Spot on 😎😎😎
So is Nikon FM3A better than Nikon F3? I had F3 and barely used it until I lost it. Planning to buy one but then FM3A also came to the picture.
Although I prefer rangefinder style viewfinders I have to admit the FE and FM Nikons trigger my GAS! Gotta go browse eBay so thanks for the review and see ya! :)
It's an FM2 with electronic extras, no batteries and all that fancy stuff is gone. I so want that Illford sign behind you
When it comes to film I grab my F5, but if you are looking for something similar to the FM3a the FA is excellent and a quarter of the price. ( er....the FA sometimes has a bad chip that drains the batteries in two days... so take lots of batteries, or buy the MD15 motor drive that also powers the camera.)
I was thinking about getting one of these, but am disappointed about the frame advance lever needing to be sticking out in order for the shutter button to be operable. I have always used my left eye to look through cameras, and that lever would be poking me in the face. I guess I will try practicing using my right eye instead for awhile to see if I can make it work.
But they were able to do the fast shutter speed in the 80s as well, with the Nikon FM2.
Great alternative is the F100 if you prefer less old school looks.
Great review - thanks a lot.
I intend to get one soon, maybe best in the country of origin.
Prices will not drop anymore anyway I suppose😂
finally it is uploaded, fed 2 btw rangefinder
Check out the Nikon FM2(N) or the Nikon FA if you want the same basic functionality, ie. 4000 sec shutter without the outrageous price of the FM3a.
My FM2n was $25 but just because I happened to go into my local goodwill at the right time.
Exposure lock is a great feature, I didn't know it was not that common. I have a Fujica AX-3 which has AEL mode and you can just point at the shadows, half-press the shutter until you've recomposed and taken your shot. :) If I understood, I guess on the Nikon you push in the lock button while you're metering, instead of changing the "mode", different way of achieving the same thing I guess? In a way that sounds handier and in a way not - you don't have to fiddle with "modes" as much but you do have to press an extra button... I don't know which I'd prefer! :D
Nikon F5=perfect film camera
He's back! Good to see you. Lots of editing in this video. I'm sure it's a pain to do but the cuts do make watching easier.
For me, the question of the right (film) camera honestly comes down to ergonomics. Also, it depends on if you're talking manual focus or auto. For manual, I love the Canon AE-1 program for ergonomics. It fits my hand so well and it's light without feeling like plastic.
The canon 50mmm fd lens also rocks.
Nikon manual focus film bodies up until the F3 don't have that grip on the right-hand side. Hurts my hand. Or maybe I'm a crybaby! Haha. However, I love the chunky feel of my FE2. It's like having a hunk of metal in my hand. Great for self-defense.
FM3A looks cool and that's an interesting feature. I'm not sure why film camera prices are staying so high/increasing in some cases. Must be the collectors.
Certain Exposures have you tried the Canon A-1? It has similar ergonomics and weight to the AE-1P, but it’s all metal and includes aperture priority.
VeloRydr yessir! I wanted to buy one but the prices are too high.
Certain Exposures AE-1P & A-1 look like they have similar pricing on eBay, which hover around the $100 mark. The A-1 might be around $20 more on average. Both are great cameras though, with a bargain on most FD lenses.
VeloRydr My mistake. You wrote A-1 and I read F-1 (the “Canon New F-1” which retails for ~$300). You’re correct about the A-1!
Certain Exposures the New F1 seems like it would be a cool camera. I’d probably buy the Old F1 though, since it’s cheaper and I think it kind of looks a little cooler. Both would be great to own though! :D
Really nice review. Just got one of this in black. What would be your recommendation on two good lens setup? Thank you!
I would say the 50mm f1.4 ais (or f1.2 if you're feeling fancy)
that's my baby from 2002. I love her
As long as it’s weather proofed better than the F5 then I’ll get one.
I like the nikon f
The FE2 also has exposure lock, you just push the self timer lever towards the lens. The main attraction to the fm3a for me is the more reliable shutter than the fe2, if my fe2 does die and can't be fixed I'll hunt down an fm3a.
what about an F100 if you like Nikon? It's absolutely bombproof. Ok, so it's completely battery dependant but it's got all the bells and whistles of a modern camra DSLR.
I had the F100 and sold it, not the same pleasure as FM3a/FM2 according to me...
Good vid brother, so which do you prefer the Nikon FM3A or the Nikon F3?
Eric Jones honestly the F3, shutter and film advance on it feel nicer in my opinion
It's got some nice features but not enough of a difference from my FM2n to justify the price
I own the fm3A, awesome photos and all manual. The light meter is spot on, but an experienced doesn't need one. This camera works in sub-freezing and desert climates perfectly fine. This camera will work when most others will fail. Except for the Pentax K 1000, it's rock solid also.
The f3 has an auto exposure lock button
Perhaps back in '18 you could score an FM3a for about $700, but now prices are climbing and they're getting crazy stupid expensive. You can still get a good clean FM2 or an F3 for that, but, as of 2022, budget around $12-1500 for an FM3a.
Not if your lucky man, I just picks another one up recently for $900 AUD
I’m working on a “revisited” video of sorts on the camera again. It truly is the best SLR you can get your hands on IMO
@@shootswithcoops One of the best, certainly.
For everybody who hates opened crank leaver - if a motor drive MD12 is attached, you can close the leaver but still shoot via MD12.
what's the point in titling the video "last mechanical SLR" but you like the camera because it aperture priority. the last mechanical nikon slr was the fm2
Quite so. FM3A is a dual mechanism.
Okey, you really have to try a Leica M5! You’ve got giant hands so you’ll know to appreciate the size and ergonomics and the light meter and light meter display are so good that you won’t need an aperture priority mode.
How does the FM3A feel in the hand compared to the F3? Nice video, btw.
I have really big hands, and the F3 is a bit bigger and would fit my hands better
If only it had 100% coverage high eyepoint viewfinder, then it would have been perfect. Love that match needle meter display. Great camera, but if you wear glasses, forget it. F3 is the only option.
100% viewfinder coverage is more lmportant for me. The F3 is my baby.
No pictures 😢
I really want this camera but the price is sky high. The F100 gives better metering so that is the way I went for a 1/4 of the money.
Autor's dreams of Hollywood.
It would be the perfect camera if it came with spot metering.
Olympus OM3ti
Great Nikon, but priced high due to demand/limited production. For the same price, I rather have an FM+FE+F3+F. 4 bodies with 4 different film/lens combo.
Don't forget the camera's age in the pricing too!
Nice camera indeed, but you can get a more modern autofocus SLR with more features for way less money
Autofocus is boring and feels too modern. It’s handy for normal photography or work but manual makes the hobby feel much more personal.
with the Leica you can hand hold much slower shutter speeds (1/8 e.g.) which in my opinion is much more useful than two faster shutter speeds: as you alwas can cut some light with ND filter but never add some light...
Not many people will know the truth. Exactly why I favor my M3.
I favor my leicaflex SL
Didn't you already do this video?
Paul James Muldoon was having trouble with the high Rez upload. Has to re film it
Shootswithcoops hmm, I enjoy your uploads it's nice to have an Aussie CZcamsr doing film photography vids.
Just picked one up for 400 dollars in really good condition. Shot one roll in just about 5 hours. Its almost too easy to use
400$?!? where did you buy it? on ebay its 600-900$ :(
@@manor666m tradera.se is a Swedish equivalent of ebay. There was another chrome one for 1200 dollars but hen this came up for 400 and I just clicked "buy now"(no bidding) and thought it was gonna be broken or in bad shape.
Nikon FM2n is a superior camera. Has everything you need and nothing you don't. If you need auto exposure shooting film in 2024, just shoot a digital camera.
Nikon F6
FM2n wins for me
Tone it down and kill the background noise. Chill
This video makes me wanna sell my Leica M6 and lenses to buy this camera and fill my pockets with cash.
everything is great except that needle meter! should have kept the meter the - 0 + style which lit up. this camera sucks in low light. near impossible to read the meter when light is not on your side. only reason im sticking to the FM2
There is no perfect camera, this is why we need to buy all cameras mwah ha ha.
Try an OM2n. End of.
Too expensive for me. I prefer fm2n and fg. I got both mint at 1/5 price of mint fm3n