Nikon FM Series - Archived 251-300 Message Board/Guestbook

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Nikon FM Series - Archived 251-300 Message Board/Guestbook

From Ben Gallegos (Fri Mar 24 00:51:13 2000 ):
I have 3 Nikon cameras (N90s, N2020, FM2) and several AI and AF-D type lenses. Does anyone know if there is a problem with using AF-D lenses on the FM2? In other words, can I damage my very expensive AF lenses by using them on the FM2. I realize they all use the F mount but I just want to make sure I don't damage the AF and CPU contacts on the lens. I've asked several camera techs and I keep getting different answers. Some tell me there's no problem, while others tell me that I can but I could cause damage longterm. Thanks for your help.
From David (Thu Mar 23 22:38:59 2000 ):
I have a Nikon FM and I am looking for a closeup bellows that will fit my camera and also be compatible with the metering system. My question is which Nikon model(s) bellows will fit my camera?
From Sergei Matveiev (Mon Mar 20 04:19:05 2000 ):
Does anybody out there have a Nikon FM2 user manual that they would be willing to sell to a neophyte Nikon owner?
From Steven (Thu Mar 16 07:58:55 2000 ):
I have a Nikon FM2T and a Nikor 50mm1.2 lens that I bought a few years ago and used only once. I know I am a heratic and I will suffer a fate worse than death but, I also bought at the same time a digital camera and have found that using a digital meets my needs much more than the Nikon could. The camera body and lens are still in their boxes and include all material that had originally shipped with them. My question, I am planning to send them off on e-bay but, I have no idea as to the value. Could someone please provide me with this information? Both the camera body and lens are in new condition, I only used them once. Many thanks. Steven poleske@earthlink.net
From Mark Carnahan (Tue Apr 25 20:14:39 2000 ):
Recently noticed a glare on my viewfinder. Removed the lens and noticed black goo on the mirror and viewfinder. Turns out the black foam strip t that cushions the mirror as it flips up, has deteriorated and fell into the mirror mechanism. Its gooey and sticks to the viewfinder, making a sticky mess. If you have an older FM like mine, you might want to check that status of the cushion to avoid this problem. I'm planning to clean off the viewfinder, scrape off the rest of the foam and replace it.
From kho king (Mon Apr 24 12:07:07 2000 ):
I am looking for a FM2n manual, because I bought a used FM2n camera without a manual. I hope to get the original box of the camera also. does anyone know where i can get this? Does anyone use a Vivitar 28-210mm lens before? any commnent on the lens? what is the price of the lens?
From Mike (Fri Apr 21 15:27:11 2000 ):
I have a Nikon FM and have had to replace the diodes of the light meter. They seem to be doing the same thing again (not coming on). I use the motor drive alot. Does this have anything to do with it?
From ADAM (Thu Apr 20 13:11:45 2000 ):
I'm just bought a Nikon FM10. I believe it's a good SLR camera for a starter like me. However, I found that the manual isn't enough. So I wonder whether any books or article from the websites that could be useful for me to further explore the use of SLR....thank you.
From Sophia Malik (Wed Apr 19 00:50:26 2000 ):
I have not had a lot of experience with cameras but a friend of mine needs to get a new one and doesn't know where they can find one like they used to have. He needs a 35mm SLR with an Auto Focus and Zoom Lens. If you know where he can find it or what models Nikon is selling now with the above mentioned please e-mail me at PnkPnthr86@aol.com. Thanks.
From Mary Frances (Tue Apr 18 22:08:43 2000 ):
I noticed a couple of recent messages regarding a manual for the FM2. I also have a used FM2 and would like to get my hands on a manual. If anyone knows how to find one please e-mail me at mfpedro@swbell.net. Or if one of my fellow message writers finds one would they pass on information about how they located one? Thanks
From Rich (Fri Apr 14 23:55:51 2000 ):
I've Just obtained an FM-10 and I've heard mixed information about use and convenience, I was just wondering if anyone had an fm-10 and how it compared to the FM2, which was the original camera I wanted.
From Genholst (Fri Apr 14 10:44:29 2000 ):
#KhoKing#: FM2n is NOT the best mechanical camera Nikon has ever produced. But it remains as the only mechanical camera Nikon is still producing right now. There are some variations such as 'Light-weight and scale down version" called FM-10 and the latest was a Commemorative Model called "Dragon" which also has a site in Photography in Malaysia (http://www.mir.com.my/rb/photography/companies/nikon/htmls/models/specroomy2k/millennium2000/index.htm). The FM2n Titan has long been dis-continued but it is not impossible to find on some 'remote' retail outlets. Good Luck.
From MC Lau (Thu Apr 13 13:14:46 2000 ):
#### Gary #### I don't have a SB28, but I do have a FM2. Since the FM2 does not possess TTL flash abilities, you can only use the flash on "Auto" mode. After setting the flash on auto mode, select the correct focal lens for the lens in use, choose the correct film speed, and select an aperture, all manually. Don't forget to set the right sync speed on your camera. To select the right aperture, divide the guide number of the flash with the ditance from your main subject. Use the nearest available aperture setting on the flash. Consult the instruction book for the appropriate guide number for right film speed. Hope it helps.
From Gary (Sun Apr 9 12:08:02 2000 ):
I've got an SB28 flash that I use for my F100. I just bought a mint condition FM2 and need to know what to do regarding a flash. What do you recommend? Thanks, Gary
From Lewis Rosenthal (Sun May 7 03:18:48 2000 ):
I have an FM2n with an MD-12 and an MF-16 databack. I don't have a manual for the MF-16, so my question may be answered there. For some reason, with the databack open, I have full, normal function of all controls on the back. When closed, I have the same functionality, except when the shutter is cocked. Then, I only have one button press before the back stops responding (any button). I have experimented with the MD-12 on, off, and removed, and the situation appears the same. Is this a sign of a weakening battery in the camera? (I just replaced the batteries in the MF-16 with two new 1.5v LR-44 - SR-44 equivalent - batteries.) - TIA for any help!
From Kel (Sun May 7 02:52:11 2000 ):
Found site very useful as I've just acquired a pair of FM's. All I've got to do now is source some reasonable secondhand (pre-used) lenses to fit. Any reliable outlets in England ?
From MC Lau (Sat May 6 19:05:54 2000 ):
**** Anthony ***** Sorry, Anthony, I have no previous experience with the SB23, and I really can't comment on its performance. The FM2n does not support TTL OTF flash metering, and as such you don't need a sophisticated flash to pair with it. If you are expected to do a lot of flash photography, manual fll flash and the like, you may find that a spedlight with swirl and turn head more versatile. Otherwise, just ensure the flash is powerful enough for your general use. Nikon speedlights had proven to be very relaible; I am still using a SB10 which I purchased in 1981 on my FM2. Even so, I strongly suggest that you check up the SB23 carefully for proper functioning and insist on a return policy from the good people at B&H. Hope it helps.
From Anthony (Sat May 6 12:31:23 2000 ):
To Mr. MC Lau: Hello MC, I just want to know whether or not the SB23 is a good flash unit for the FM2n. I am planning to get one unit from B&H within the next 2 weeks and would like to know the best flash unit to get for it. I am only starting with the 50 f/1.4 AIS lens and may upgrade to a longer one if I get to like its handling. The nice salesman at B&H recommended the SB23. Do you have any better suggestions? I prefer to use the Nikon Speedlights instead of any other brand. Thanks in advance.
From Fish (Thu May 4 18:42:40 2000 ):
I'am a proud owner of a new FM2n with focal power ranging from 35mm-200mm. Never before a mechanical camera has been so satisfying both in touch and performance. Can say the same 'bout the new FM-10 and FE-10 which the latter broke down on me in less than year off moderate usage..... I'm looking for a second hand wide angle 28mm manual focus Nikkor (S/N 74##### and above), anyone out there?
From Bob (Mon May 1 23:57:22 2000 ):
I recently had my Nikon FM stolen from Eagle (near Boise) Idaho. If anyone happens across the camera serial number (FM2518372)please notify me or the local police. I have owned this camera for over 20 years and want it back. Please help.
From Brian (Sun Apr 30 23:59:43 2000 ):
I own a Nikon FM 10 and the camera has worked fine, until recentley. The film advance lever will not move through the full range of motion needed to advance the film. I think that the shutter is stuck. Would this have anything to do with the double exposure button being moved while pushing the shutter release button? Is this something I can fix on my own or is it best to bring it to a repair shop? Thanks
From Barry (Sun Apr 30 09:46:38 2000 ):
I just got a used FM2n which appears to be in great shape, but I cannot get the film advance lever to go past about 50-60 degrees, where it firmly stops. The shutter release therefore won't set. I put film in, and still could not get it to advance. Any suggestions? Am I missing something very simple? Thanks to anyone who can help.
From Jeremy Simmons (Sun Apr 30 07:00:48 2000 ):
I'm having trouble with expoure readings on my Nikon FM, In good lighting conditions like bright sunshine everything seems to work fine but I'm trying to take a lot of photos in low light situations using just the available light, and I can never get just the middle LED to light on its own, its always over or under. What do I do? Am I supposed to compensate one way or the other and just use the meter as a rough guide? or is there somthing wrong with the FM (or me?). How do I use the 3 LED meter system in challenging conditions. I wanted to get a good manual camera to improve my photography but now I'm finding my confidence is decreasing. Can someone give me some advice, I feel like selling my beautiful FM and getting an idiot proof F60 or somthing but I dont want to. Help......
From kking (Fri Apr 28 13:52:38 2000 ):
Does anyone know the different between Nikkor 50mm f1.8AF and 50mm f1.8 AI (MF) lens in term of quality, sharpness...etc.? Please let me know if you have try this two lenses before.
From Greg Yovich (Sat Jun 3 21:36:55 2000 ):
I have an older FM (1979) that is having a problem. I get a black line across the bottom of some photos, not all of them and not always the same height. I sent it in to Authorized Photo Service and they didn't even check it out, all I received back was a note - shutter erratic, parts no longer available-. I am very dissapointed in them but that's another story. Has anyone experienced this with their cameras and what was the solution. I should add that the faom rubber that cushions the mirror is falling apart, could this cause mirror bounce which would then give me the line ?????? Any help is appreciated.
From PJennings (Tue May 30 11:48:58 2000 ):
#Jack#: Camera cases for any particular model within FM/FM2/FM2n/FE/FE2 series or even Nikon FA should be able to share the standard case as ALL these Nikon bodies have similar body dimension except may be the front portion of the pouch may post some problems and you have to decide what kind of lens should be attached with it. Generally, a rough guideline is: any 52/62mm filter size Nikkor lens shorter than 50mm SHOULD fit.
From Jack (Mon May 29 10:41:56 2000 ):
Will a fitted case for a FM2 fit a FM?
From Lars (Mon May 22 02:26:52 2000 ):
Anthony! I think there might be a serious problem with the SB-23 in connection with FM2. I understand that SB-23 will automatically go into stand by mode. It needs a "wake up" signal which FM2 cannot give. This is also the reason why SB-12 will have to be master flash in a multi TTL flash setup as the syncro cords SC-18 and SC-19 only has three cords. Andrew Kim has rewievs of SB-23 and SB-20 @ http://www.mit.edu:8001/people/andy_roo/photography/nikon.html
From Para Selvachandren (Sat May 20 12:39:14 2000 ):
I am lookig for a Nikon FM2/T camera. If anybody have that camera to sell please send the email. My email address is parason27@hotmail.com Thank you. Para
From Ronald Kong (Thu May 18 03:50:00 2000 ):
Heard that the current FM2 are made in Korea. How does one distinguish whether the camera is made in Korea or Japan.
From JWoods (Tue May 16 14:35:54 2000 ):
#Joe#: Although SB-23 is "strictly being designed" as a TTL only flash but it does not mean it cannot be used on a any of the FM2 models. The FM2 or FM2(n) has not designed with a circuit that is able to differentiate if it was a TTL flash, anyway, the hot shoe contact on the accessory shoe will "mate" with the female terminal on the or the flash unit. But I agreed with you that none of the FM2 models support TTL flash and the FM2 ready light will flash when such flash is mounted but the flash will still fire at the flash default output which is at a relative small guide number of 66 (ISO 100 in feet). Next thing after my clarification: Why Nikon designed such a stupid flash that do not have the ALL basic essential setting of AUTO and MANUAL and caused us have this episode on this MB ? peace.
From Ann (Mon May 15 15:03:53 2000 ):
Hello. I am a beginner in photography. I have an FM 10 and am wondering how to decide what types of flash to use? I need to photograph some artwork and also do portraits. Thanks in advance for any help. Feel free to email- Ann
From kking (Mon May 15 01:36:59 2000 ):
I have been looking around for an FM2T for some time. Is there anybody have the model and want to let go? I would prefer a mint or new one with box, manual and everything original.
From Joe (Fri May 12 09:47:35 2000 ):
Anthony, the SB-23 is not usable on the FM2 because it is strictly a TTL only flash, which the FM2 does not support. I believe if you mount the SB-23 on the FM2, the FM2 ready light will flash (experienced with my SB-26 on TTL). You have to switch the flash to either "A" or "M" mode, both which are not available on the SB-23. I can't remember if the FM2 will fire the flash though; vaguely, I don't think so.
From Lars (Mon Jun 19 01:27:03 2000 ):
Eduard! - You can use as good as any modern F-mount lens with FM as well as early pre-AI lenses as the meter coupling lever is hinged and any flash with an iso-type hot shoe or providing for a standard PC sync cable can be readily used.
From Eduard Karelse (Sat Jun 17 17:46:50 2000 ):
Wich modern lenses or speedlight ( not only Nikon ) can i use on my old but wonderfull Nikon FM ?
From Keith (Sun Jun 11 06:37:36 2000 ):
I have a Nikon FM, and I was wondering what is the value of this camera.
From Jusko (Fri Jun 9 18:52:53 2000 ):
Anyone has the experience of replacing himself the foam strip for reducing the vibration of mirror flip up ?
From Jusko (Fri Jun 9 18:41:08 2000 ):
I have both the Nikon FE2 and FM2. But I found the light meter for FE2 is a stop brighter than the FM2, e.g. same speed, 5.6 for FM2 but 4 for FE2. I am sure the reading for FM2 is correct, but when I took the FE2 to the Nikon authorized repair shop, the technician said the light meter for FE2 is good and correct after equipment testing. Any comment please Jusko
From MC (Mon Jun 5 22:43:05 2000 ):
***** Greg *******: From what you described, it appears to me that the shutter is the culprit. Unfortunately, Nikon service centers no longer support the older FM, and the shutter from the newer FM2n which is still under porduction, cannot be used as a substitute. Your best bet is to find a camera repair shop that has the FM shutter from other cannibalized FM body. The rubber foam light seal is an esay fix. Hope it helps.
From Kai Pin (Mon Jun 5 18:32:36 2000 ):
JERRY: Answers to your questions: 1) Manual Nikkor lenses are now manufactured in smaller quantity than ever before unlike the AF versions which are made in larger numbers today, hence the reduction in cost and economies-of-scale, and they also uses more metal parts as compared to the AF lenses, which are mostly polycarbonate (except for high-end AF telephotos and zooms). AF lenses do have less parts, but the optical quality either remains the same or improved over the manual version. 2) Not much difference between a chrome and black bodies, for FM2 or any Nikon models. The black bodies are simply a coat of paint over the actual chassis used. 3) Between the early batch of FM2 (mid-eighties) and those produced in the nineties and now, the differences were two: First, the first batch has an X-sync. speed of 1/200 sec. Only the subsequent batches uses the updated X-sync speed of 1/250 sec. until today. Second, the shutter curtains used in FM2 produced before 1990 were of the honeycomb-styled titanium design, while the current models' shutters are made of lightweight and durable aluminium blades. 4) Any Nikon Speedlight can be used, whether they are designed for AF or Manual Nikons, or any other dedicated, independent-make flash meant for Nikon bodies. Any hotshoe flash (powered by four AA-size batteries) that provides either Auto or TTL flash can be used on the FM2. But it is not recommended to use any dedicated TTL-type of flash, especially those with multiple contact points meant for other brands of cameras - like those made by Canon, Minolta, Pentax or Olympus on your Nikon FM2 even if your local dealer told you that these can be used -- strictly not recommended. Flash from independent brands like Sunpak and Vivitar are highly recommended if you can't afford an original Nikon Speedlight.
From Jakobs (Mon Jun 5 15:35:27 2000 ):
** Adrian **: There could be quite a few variable factors attributed to your questions: 1) Not all camera manufacturers have similar metering patterns and distribution even if all of them claimed to have "centerweighted average metering system" employed. The ratio used can even be slightly different among models with a same brand name. One good example is the Nikon F3 which has a counterweighted average pattern of 80/20, while most earlier Nikon models were using 60/40 as standard; some of their later models even has a 75/25 ratio BUT given a same subject, viewpoint, a lens with same focal length - (regardless using a Canon or Pentax etc.) the meter reading should not be exceeding more than a stop in exposure differences; 2) Perspective, viewpoint selected with lenses of different focal length could lead to such error, for an example, given a same subject matter like a fashion model, scene metered in a low picture angle (which may include too much sky etc..) or the background (One uses a shadowy background while another selected a while wall behind the subject) may affect reading too especially when the proportion of the subject is not dominant enough to provide frame filling reading; But frankly: UNLESS you are using slide film which has a tight exposure latitude for you to determine such defined 'exposure errors' you have found out; POOR processing standard in one-hour color lab could be the main culprit and caused all these anxieties in you. Doubting about what I have said ? Try sending a moderately tricky image to 5 different labs, you will be surprise, very surprise to find out the results later. For *** Jerry ***: You don't to buy a Nikon dedicated speedlights, there are many third party flash units which are very cheap and in fact - dollar to a dollar, some of them may be even more logical investment than to buy an original Nikon speedlight. No, technically, FM2 has a mechanical body, as far as flash photography is concerned, regardless of whether you are mounting a modern AF lens or a older AI modified Nikkor lens, it works the same manner i.e. f-stop = distance over guide number or if you find it too complicated at the start, use AUTO flash setting will provide you with a higher success rate with flash pictures; Lastly, chrome bodies are no different than a black chrome version except in cosmetic. It is more like tailored for personal preference; However, Nikon FM2 has quite a few variations over the years, specification varies.
From Adrian HELP ME!! (Mon Jun 5 14:16:02 2000 ):
Hi people..I own and FM2n and was wondering if anyone had any comments about the accuracy of the meter in this camera. I enrolled in a photgraphy course and we did an experiment whereby everyone checked the accuracy of their respective cameras by taking a reading of the same subject with same ASA and f stop, centre weighted etc. I was surprised at the variance of the readings between all the cameras. I had the camera checked by Nikon and they advised that my meter was deadly accurate. My question is, are all meters calibrated differently even if they share the centre weighted system? Will there always be differences??
From Jerry (Sun Jun 4 01:22:01 2000 ):
Hello ppl. I'm Jerry from Malaysia. I have just bought a FM2 recently. with a 50 mm f1.8 MANUAL lens. so.. my question is : 1. Why is a manual lens more expensive than an AF Lens ? and what is more and what has been omitted inside an AF lens ? 2. Are materials used in FM2 today ('90) very different from those in the older days ('80) ? My FM2 is a chrome version: IS it not as 'good' as those black chrome colour version ?? 3. Since I am not using an AF lens, what speedlight should I buy for my manual 50mm lens? please provide some if your recommendations with some model names and since I am just a student, so I hope the prices of your recommendations fits my budget and requirements. Thanks everyone and best wishes to whoever owns a Nikon FM2 like me !! :) -Jerry -
From MC (Thu Jun 29 10:00:46 2000 ):
TO Piyush Dixit ********** Apart from some lenses of special application, the FM10 virtually can take any Nikkor/Nikon lenses with AI specification or newer; lenses since 1977. Check up this page for further information.
From Piyush Dixit (Wed Jun 28 23:32:50 2000 ):
I have a FM-10 with a standard 35-70mm lens. Are there any other lenses compatible with FM-10. If yes then where to buy used lenses for it?
From MC (Sat Jun 24 23:29:50 2000 ):
**** ROY**** I came across a Nikon brochure for year 2000 recently. It is in Japanese, and FM2/T is listed as a current production model. Perhaps you would like to investigate further before you decide.
From Roy (Sat Jun 24 20:38:19 2000 ):
I have been using my new purchase FM2 for almost a year, and needless to say, this love affair will end only at my death. I don't neeed any other camera. Yesterday however, I found a brand new FM2T in a small camera shop that had been reduced to $599 after 3 years on the shelf. It comes with a new Nikon USA warranty, and though I cannot afford it, I HAD to put it in lay-away. I could not resist. How could this camera go unnoticed for 3 years? I cannot find anything like a bad review for the FM2T, and I know the original new price at this shop was $1199. Any ideas? What is the true value?
From MC (Fri Jun 23 13:30:34 2000 ):
TO Kam Nawus... The best way to locate the web pages of the many cameras featured in this site is to visit the Resource Page. You may then select the link to the respective pages. At times I do wonder if the navigation of this site need to be improved :-))
From Lars (Wed Jun 21 19:59:55 2000 ):
Neville! - MD-12 does not power the meter of either FM, FE, FM2, FE2 or FA. The only MDs that provide power to the meter is the MD-15 specifically for FA and MD-4 specifically for F3. Best regards,

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