Nikon FG
The Nikon FG is probably the most unknown film camera Nikon ever sold. Yet it is an amazing camera with all of the features that are on the best Nikon film cameras that people do recognize.
The Nikon FG is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera that was manufactured by Nippon Kogaku K. K. (Nikon Corporation since 1988) in Japan from 1982 to 19861. Here are some key features and details about the Nikon FG:
- Size and Weight: It’s reasonably compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around2.
- Exposure Modes: The Nikon FG was the first Nikon SLR to offer a Programmed Auto-Exposure mode (AE). It also features Aperture Priority and full Manual modes3.
- Lens Compatibility: The camera is compatible with Nikon F-mount lenses supporting automatic indexing (AI) with some exceptions1.
- Shutter: The shutter is electronically controlled, with a double speed mechanical backup. The shutter speed range is 1s – 1/1000s (P, A, M); M90 (1/90s); Bulb (B)1.
- Flash: The camera has a hot shoe for mounting flashes. It’s compatible with dedicated Nikon hot shoe mounted flashes with TTL capability1.
- Metering: The FG’s metering system is controlled by a micro-computer which measures center-weighted brightness, using a sensitive silicon photodiode (SPD) sensor1.
- Construction: The body is made of a copper silumin aluminum alloy with a polycarbonate exterior and a synthetic leatherette covering1.
Despite its unrefined feel compared to other Nikon cameras and lack of depth-of-field preview, the Nikon FG is appreciated for its small size, lightweight, great control layout, and its performance in both automatic and manual modes2. It’s considered a bargain for a Nikon SLR2. However, it’s worth noting that it was not universally loved upon its release, with some Nikon fans criticizing it for its entry-level positioning2.