Nikon
/IF
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
®i Viewfinder eyepiece
Eyepiece shutter lever (
Film advance lever d
Film takeup spool #
NOMENCLATURE
® Aperture-direct-readout (ADR) window
@ Caméra body AF contacts
d) Depth-of-field preview button
® Mirror lockup lever
(D Self-timer LED
® Backup mechanical release lever
©Anatomical grip
® Exposure memory lock button
® Viewfinder battery chamber
(with lid)
® Shutter speed index
) Viewfinder illuminator button
) Neckstrap eyelet
__________
Viewfinder iliuminator i
Meter coupling iever (
Meter coupling iever release button (
Sync terminal (
Lens mounting index ®
Lens release button (
Reflex mirror i
Lens mounting flange i
Finder mounting/release levers @
ASA/ISO film speed/exposure
_________
compensation dial @
Accessory terminal !
) Focusing ring
( Focus lock buttons
) Depth-of-field indicators
S Aperture scale
) Aperture index
I Meter coupling ridge
) Aperture-direct-readout scale
Exposure compensation scale
I Exposure compensation Index
I Flot-shoe contacts
@ Accessory shoe
# Film rewind crank
® Camera back lock lever
@ Film rewind knob
> Exposure compensation dial locking button
A-M switch index (
A- M switch (
Distance scale j
Distance index (
Aperture ring i
Meter coupling shoe (
Lens AF contacts C
Self-timer lever C
Shutter speed dial (
Power switch I
Multiple exposure lever (
Shutter release button (
Frame counter (
Shutter-speed dial locking button C
Film plane indicator
CONTENTS
------------------------
NOMENCLATURE..................................................................3—5
FOREWORD................................................................................7
BASIC OPERATION..............................................................8—19
FOCUS...............................................................................20—28
Autofocus
Focus-Aid Operation...........................................................24
Manuai Focus......................................................................25
Speciai Situations.........................................................26—27
....................................................................
22—23
EXPOSURE........................................................................28—41
Setting the Fiim Speed
Setting the Aperture
Setting the Shutter Speed
Automatic Exposure Control
Manual Exposure Control
Relationship Between Shutter Speed
and Aperture.............................................................34—35
Depth of Field..............................................................36—38
Exposure Compensation..............................................39—40
Stop-Down Exposure Measurement
OTHER CONTROLS
Shutter Release Button.......................................................42
Backup Mechanical Release Lever
Film Advance Lever.............................................................43
Frame Counter....................................................................43
Eyepiece Shutter Lever
Self-Timer
Mirror Lockup Lever............................................................45
Viewfinder Illuminator........................................................45
Multiple Exposure Lever
Memo Holder
Film Plane Indicator............................................................47
Infrared Focusing Index
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30—31
42—47
29
30
32
33
41
42
44
44
46
46
47
FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY....................................................48—51
Accessory Shoe...................................................................49
Sync Terminal.....................................................................50
Ready-Light........................................................................51
Nikon F3AF/Speedlight Combination Chart
.......................
51
ACCESSORIES....................................................................52—65
Interchangeabie Viewfinders
Focusing Screens.........................................................54—55
Electronic Fiash Equipment
Motor Drive MD-4.......................................................58—59
Data Back MF-14
Close-Up Equipment....................................................61—62
Anti-Cold Battery Pack DB-2
Cable Release AR-3.............................................................63
Rubber Eyecup
Eyepiece Correction Lenses
Filters.................................................................................64
Lens Hoods.........................................................................64
Camera Cases
Neckstraps
Compartment Cases
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EV RANGE OF THE CAMERA
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52—53
56—57
66—69
60
63
63
63
65
65
65
TIPS ON CAMERA CARE..................................................70 — 71
TIPS ON BATTERY USE.............................................................72
ABOUT THE LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY (LCD)
.........................
73
SPECIFICATIONS...............................................................74—76
IMPORTANT!...........................................................................77
FOREWORD
Congratulations! You now own one of the most advanced,
easy-to-use cameras on the market today.
Thanks to a TTL image dispiacement detecting system utiliz
ing two SPD’s built into the AF Finder DX-1, this camera offers
you through-the-iens autofocus controi with either of two AFNikkor lenses, the 80mm f/2.8 and the 200mm f/3.5 IF-ED.
Thus, you can shoot fast-moving action whiie the subject
remains in sharp focus. And like the reguiar Nikon F3, the
shutter speed is set automaticaliy to match the f/stop in use,
so you never have to worry about getting the correct exposure.
The F3AF aiso gives you focus-aid operation with the vast
majority of Nikkor and Nikon Series E ienses having a maxi
mum aperture of f/3.5 or faster, while regular manual
focusing using the matte portion of the screen is possibie
with any lens.
Before actually taking pictures with the F3AF, you should
familiarize yourself with its basic operation as presented in the
first section. For more detailed explanations and special
picture-taking situations, refer to the rest of the manual. A few
minutes wisely invested now will pay off later in years of re
warding photographic experiences.
To insure proper service, make sure the Nikon Warranty Card
is enclosed in the camera box.
BASIC OPERATION
4 Remove the battery clip
' " ® from the camera body.
Use a coin to twist the clip counterclock
wise to unscrew it.
o Load the batteries into
the clip.
Wipe the battery terminals clean and in
sert the two 1,55V silver-oxide batteries
supplied with the camera, making sure
that the -l- signs are up. Two 1.5 Valkalinemanganese batteries or one 3V lithium
battery can also be used.
Caution: Keep batteries away from infants and
email children. In case a battery is accidentally
swallowed, call a doctor immediately as the
material inside the batteries can cause serious
problems.
O Reattach the battery
clip.
Slip the battery clip back into the camera
body and screw it tightly into place.
^ Remove the battery
chamber lid ® from the
finder.
Apply pressure to the battery chamber lid
located at the side of the viewfinder to
slide it off.
e Load the batteries into
the finder’s battery
chamber.
Load two AAA-type batteries into the bat
tery chamber, making sure the positive
and negative (-i- and -) terminals match
the diagrams inside the holder.
Caution: NiCd batteries should not be used as
they might cause an explosion.
A Reattach the lid.
While applying pressure to the bat
teries with the lid, slide it on until it clicks
into place.
BASIC OPERATION —continued-
y Move the power switch
** ® to uncover the red dot.
Turn the switch clockwise until it clicks
into place. This makes the camera ready
for exposure metering and autofocus
shooting.
10
Q Depress the shutter
release button ®
halfway.
This activates the exposure meter and
autofocus functions. Both stay on for 16
seconds after you take your finger off the
button, then turn themselves off auto
matically to conserve battery power.
Q Check battery power.
Look through the viewfinder. Withouf a lens mounted on the camera body,
the focus-impossible warning (red Xshaped LED) blinks or lights up continu
ously, while the liquid crystal display
(LCD) shows the shutter speed. These
displays indicate that the batteries have
been properly installed and their power is
adequate. If neifher fhe red X nor the LCD
appears, check battery installation in the
camera body or replace the batteries in
the body and check again. If the red X
does not appear but the LCD does, check
battery installation in the finder or replace
the finder’s bafferies with a fresh set.
Note: If a lens is mounted on the camera, either
the red X or one or both of the focus indicators
(two red LED arrows) will light up.
10 onto the camera.
locked In the “down” position. Grasp the iens by its lens barrel.
Then, line up the aperture index ® on the lens with the lens mount
ing index ® on the camera body and twist the lens counterclock
wise until it clicks into place. Confirm that the aperture index is
right on top.
To remove: Push the lens release button ® and turn the lens
clockwise until the lens comes off.
Notes:
2) Never touch the AF contacts ® inside the camera's lens mounting
3) When changing lenses with film loaded in the camera, be careful not to
First, make sure that the meter coupling lever .© Is
1) Lenses usable with the Nikon F3AF, plus DX-t Finder, are listed on
page 20.
flange 9 or those ® on the lens ba yonet mount.
expose the mirror box to direct sunlight.
4 4 Open the camera
* * ■ back<§).
While pushing the camera back lock lever
® counterclockwise with your thumb, lift
the film rewind knob @ and the camera
back will pop open.
Note: If you have used a motor drive, be sure
that the motor drive coupling cover @ is re
turned to the camera's baseplate: otherwise, the
film might be inadvertently exposed while
shooting.
11
BASIC OPERATION —continued
4 A Install the film
cartridge.
Drop the film cartridge into the film car
tridge chamber ® so that the film leader
points towards the takeup spool ®, and
push the rewind knob back down into
place.
Notes:
1) Any 35mm film Cartridge can be used.
2) Handle film in the shade to avoid direct ex
posure to sunlight.
12
4 O Insert the film leader in the takeup
spool.
Pull the leader across the camera and insert it into one of the
slots in the film takeup spool. Advance the takeup spool slightly
with your finger to engage the film’s perforations with the teeth
of the takeup spool and sprocket ®.
4^ Wind the film advance
lever 39 to advance
film onto the takeup spool.
Wind the film advance lever and depress
the shutter release button until the film
sprockets engage the perforations on the
edges of the film.
Close the camera
back.
Make sure that the perforations are per
fectly meshed with the sprockets and
that the film is set between the film guide
rails ®. Then, close the camera back until
it snaps shut.
40 Take up the film slack.
Fold out the film rewind crank ®)
and rotate it in the direction of the arrow
until it stops. Then fold the crank back in.
13
BASIC OPERATION -—continued
4 ■V Make blank exposures until the frame
" counter # reaches frame one.
To dispose of the first few frames exposed during film loading,
continue to alternately advance the film and depress the shutter
release button until the counter reaches frame one (the first dot
past 0). While making blank exposures, check that the rewind
knob is rotating, indicating the film has been loaded correctly
and is being advanced. If the knob does not rotate, reload
the film.
Notes:
1) When making blank exposures, set the shutter speed dial ® to A or to
1/125 sec. or above, and the shutter will be released at 1/80 sec. with
80 or M 80 displayed by the LCD in the viewiinder.
2) Do not take pictures prior to the first frame, as the meter does not
function until the counter reaches one.
14
40 Set the ASA/ISO film
speed.
Lift up the ASA/ISO film speed dial @ and
rotate it in either direction until the white
dot @ is opposite the ASA/ISO film speed
in use. Also make sure that the exposure
compensation index @ is set to the red 0.
This programs the camera's exposure
meter so that it may provide a proper
exposure for the type of film being used.
Note: The film speed is printed on the film
carton and cartridge. Details on setting the dial
to intermediate settings can be found on
page 29.
Nikon '
4Q Set the shutter speed
dial @ at A.
Rotate the shutter speed dial until the A is
opposite the shutter speed index ®. The
buiit-in locking mechanism ensures that
the dial cannot be accidentally shifted
from the A (Auto) position during shoot
ing. To set the dial to other positions, turn
the dial while depressing the shutterspeed diai iock button
Slide the A-M switchd
on the AF-Nikkor
lens to A.
Slide the switch as far as it will go.
04 Set the f-number on
^ ■ the lens.
Turn the aperture ring # on the lens until
the desired f-number is opposite the aper
ture index. The selected f-number appears
in the viewfinder for convenient reference.
Use the foilowing suggestions as a guide
in setting the f/stop on the lens (when the
80mm f/2.8 is used):
indoors: f/2.8~f/4
Outdoors(cloudy):f/4~f/8
Outdoors (clear): f/8~f/16
Outdoors (clear at the beach or in the
mountains): f/16~f/32
Note: Depending on your preference, the depth
of field as well as the shutter speed can be
controlled by your selection of the shooting
aperture. For more information, refer to page 36.
15
BASIC OPERATION —continued-
OO Hold the camera steady.
As you look through the viewfinder, use your left hand
to cradle the camera, with your fingers wrapped around the lens
and your thumb beside the focus lock button ®, while your
elbow is propped against your body for support. Use the index
finger of your right hand to depress the shutter release button
and your thumb to wind the film advance lever. Wrap the other
fingers of your right hand around the camera body. You can
adapt this basic posture to both horizontal and vertical format
shooting. To hold the camera steady, it is advisable to lean on or
against something strong and stable (e.g., a wall).
16
no Compose the picture.
Look through the viewfinder,
compose your photo with the main sub
ject (if possible, a subject’s vertical line)
in the center of the focusing frame to
assure correct focus and exposure.
Depress the shutter release button
halfway and check both the exposure
and focus displays.
While looking through the viewfinder, depress the shutter re
lease button halfway to turn on the exposure meter and auto
focus functions. The LCD indicates the automatically selected
shutter speed to match the aperture set on the lens. As long as
neither +2000 nor “8“ appears in the shutter speed display,
the camera gives the correct exposure. If either indication ap
pears, adjust the aperture ring on the lens until a desirable
shutter speed is indicated, referring to page 32. The f-number
you have set on the lens is also shown in the aperture-direct-
readout (ADR) window. When both red arrows light up, they indi
cate that the image is in focus. If the red X appears, refer to
page 26.
®®
® LCD exposure information
@ ADR f-number
® Flash ready-light
® Focus-Impossible warning
® Focus Indicators: near-focus arrow;
far-focus arrow
® Central focusing frame
® Half-mirror
® Fine matte/Fresnel field
17
BASIC OPERATION —continued
AE Take the picture.
Depress the shutter release
button all the way down; apply light but
steady pressure with the ball of your
index finger to avoid camera shake which
might result in a blurred image.
18
26.
transport the film to the next frame.
Advance the film.
stroke the film advance lever to
27.
When the film reaches the end of the roll,
the film advance lever will stop working.
Then, turn the camera upside down and
press the film rewind button, so that the
exposed film can be rewound back into
its cartridge. You do not have to continue
depressing the button.
Press the rewind
button ®.
OO Rewind the film.
Lift the film rewind crank and
turn it in the direction of the arrow. When
you feel the tension lessen, oontinue
winding one or two more turns until the
film leader is rewound oompletely back
into the cartridge.
9Q
Remove the film
cartridge.
Push the camera back lock lever counter
clockwise as you lift the film rewind crank
to open the camera back. Take out the
film cartridge. Avoid unloading film in
direct sunlight.
30.
the camera is not in use. This prevents
inadvertent battery drain in case the
shutter release button is accidentally
depressed.
TUrn the camera off.
Turn the power switch off while
19
FOCUS
The Nikon F3AF features a through-the-lens autofocus system
which takes the guesswork out of focusing: just point the camera
at what you want to photograph, depress the shutter release
button ® halfway, and watch the subject literally snap into sharp
focus... automatically.
The system consists of three parts: the special F3AF camera
body, the AF Finder DX-1, and an AF-Nikkor lens, either the
80mm f/2.8 or the 200mm f/3.5 IF-ED. The AF Finder DX-1 is
interchangeable and covers approx. 92% of the Image area of
the actual photograph, meaning that the final photograph will
be larger than the image seen in the viewfinder. The focusing
screen is built into the bottom of the viewfinder and cannot be
interchanged. Flowever, when other Nikon F3 interchangeable
viewfinders are used with the F3AF, you have a choice of 20
interchangeable focusing screens (refer to page 55).
Nikon’s autofocus system is unique in that it features exception
ally quick response, allowing you to keep up with active, fast-
moving subjects.
The Nikon F3AF offers you three different ways of focusing:
l) autofocus, 2) focus-aid operation (using the focus indicators
inside the finder), or 3) manual focus (using the matte portion of
the focusing screen). As shown in the following table, however,
only AF-Nikkor lenses are usable for autofocus. With other lenses
having maximum apertures of f/3.5 and faster, you can use the
focus indicators as a guide in focusing as you manually rotate
the lens focusing ring в.
Note: Because of the cropping which occurs in the case of mounted
slides or regular snapshot-size prints, the actual picture might come out
slightly smaller than the image seen in the viewfinder.
20
Usable Lenses
Focusing method
Autofocus
Focus-aid operation
Manual focus
Notes:
1) Even with lenses slower than 1/3.5, the focus indicators will light up
when the shutter release button is depressed halfway. This indication,
however, is not reliable.
2) Although the following Nikkor lenses have a maximum aperture of //3.5
or faster, they cannot be used for focus-aid operation: 16mm //3.5,
20mm 1/3.5, 28mm f/3.5, 135mm //3.5, Micro 55mm //3.5, PC 28mm
//3.5, PC 35mm f/2.8, and PC 35mm f/3.5; the Micro-Nikkor 55mm
f/2.8 cannot be used at closer than 280mm; the Zoom-Nikkor 35105mm f/3.5-1/4.5 can be used only at 35mm zoom setting.
3) When the Nikon Teleconverter TC-14, 200 or 300 is attached to the lens
and it makes the lens' effective aperture slower than f/3.5, the
camera's autofocus and focus-aid operation cannot be used.
4) The following lenses cannot be mounted on the F3AF with the DX-1
Finder: Nikkor 13mm f/5.6, Reflex-Nikkor 500mm f/8, and ReflexNikkor 1000mm 1/11.
5) Certain filters cannot be usëd for autofocus/focus-aid operation. (For
details, please refer to page 64.)
Lens
AF-Nikkor 80mm f/2.8, AF-Nikkor 200mm f/3.5
IF-ED
Nikkor (including AF-Nikkor) and Nikon Series
E lenses with a maximum aperture of f/3.5
or faster
Nikkor (including AF-Nikkor) and Nikon Series
E lenses
® LCD exposure information
® ADR f-number
® Fiash ready-iight
® Focus-impossibie warning
® Focus indicators: near-focus arrow; tar-focus arrow
® Centrai focusing frame
® Flaif-mirror
® Fine matte/Fresnei fieid
in focus
far focus (the lens is focused behind the subject)
near focus (the lens is focused in fronf of the subject)
autofocus or focus-aid operafion is impossijDle. (This
warning also lights up momentarily at the start of
autofocus or focus-aid operation, if there is a big
difference between the actual camera-to-subject
distance,and the lens distance setting.)
21
FOCUS —continued-
Autofocus
With the lens A-M switch © set at A, depressing the shutter reiease button haifway turns on the camera’s autofocus controi
(as well as the exposure meter). At the same time, either the
focus indicator(s) or the focus-impossible warning in the view
finder light up and the lens begins to focus automatically. Note
that the main subject (if possible, a subject's vertical line)
should be centered inside the central focusing frame in the
viewfinder. Autofocus continues for 16 sec. even after you
remove your finger from the button. When the subject is in
focus, focusing stops and both red arrows light up.
If there is a big difference between the actual camera-to-subject
distance and setting on the lens distance scale #, the red X
lights up momentarily but disappears as soon as focusing begins.
If the subject is closer than the closest distance to which the
lens can focus, either the far-focus arrow (-4) or the red X lights
up continuously. However, when the red X blinks or lights up
continuously, this indicates that the autofocus system does not
22
function well with the particular subject or shooting situation
(please refer to page 26 for further details).
Notes:
1) After taking a picture during autofocus operation, the tens witi continue
to focus for 16 sec. after you remove pressure from the shutter retease
button. To stop the tens movement at any time to conserve battery
power, slide the A M switch to M. Immediately lens movement stops,
but the red arrow(s) or red X remain on for 16 sec. until switched off
automatically.
2) While shooting fast-moving subjects, one or both of the red arrows
may blink to show that the image is quite close to the in-focus zone:
for ordinary snapshots, taking the shot even in this situation can pro
duce satisfactory results. However, if sharp focus is mandatory, wait
until both red arrows light up continuously.
3) When the batteries in the viewfinder are nearly exhausted, autofocus
becomes slow or may even stop, even though the red arrowis) or red X
remain lit. In this case, replace the batteries in the finder at your earliest
convenience, or set the A-M switch to M and turn the focusing ring
manually using the red arrows as a guide.
i %
Focus lock
The AF-Nikkor lens has two focus lock buttons ® on the lens
barrel, one on the side and the other on the A-M switch. You can
use either of these buttons, depending on your choice of hori
zontal- or vertical-format shooting. During autofocus operation,
depressing the focus lock button allows you to lock in the auto
focus distance setting on the lens. Autofocus begins once again
as soon as you release the button.
To take pictures with the main subject off-center, first center the
main subject within the focusing frame in the viewfinder, depress
the shutter release button halfway and make sure both focus
indicators light up: then depress the focus lock button and, while
holding it in, recompose and shoot.
► ◄
Notes:
1) With the locus lock button held down, the in-focus indication
may change in the following two cases: 1) when you once again
depress the shutter release button halfway after the camera's auto
matic 16-sec. switch has turned off the indication, or 2) just after you
have taken a picture. However, regardless of the focus indication
change, the distance set on the lens Is still the same as when you
depressed the focus lock button.
2) When taking pictures in the automatic exposure mode with the main
subject off-center, you must also depress the memory lock button ®
to get the correct exposure. For more information, refer to page 40.
23
FOCUS •—continued -
Focus-Aid Operation (Using the Focus
With the AF-Nikkor's A-M switch (@ set at M, or with other Nikkor
or Nikon Series E lenses having a maximum aperture of f/3.5 or
faster (as listed on page 20), you can use the focus indicators
as a guide as you rotate the lens focusing ring. First, center the
main subject (if possible, a subject's vertical line) within the
focusing frame: then depress the shutter release button halfway
to make the red arrows light up (focus information stays on for
16 sec. after removing your finger). If only the far-focus arrow
(◄ ) lights up, this indicates that the lens is focused behind the
subject, whereas the near-focus arrow (► ) indicates that the
lens is focused in front of the subject. These red arrows are very
convenient, because they tell you in which direction to turn the
focusing ring: just turn in the direction of the arrow. When the
image is in focus, both red arrows light up continuously.
When there is a big difference between the actual camera-to-
subject distance and distance set on the lens, the focus-
impossible warning appears. In this case, turn the focusing ring
until one of the red arrows lights up: then continue to turn the
24
Indicators)
ring until both arrows are lit, indicating sharp focus. If only the
far-focus arrow (◄ ) remains lit after the ring has been rotated
fully counterclockwise, this means the subject is closer than the
closest focusing distance of the lens. If the subject is much
closer than the closest focusing distance of the lens, the red X
will light up continuously.
In case the red X blinks or lights up continuously and does not
disappear even after the focusing ring is turned, this indicates
that the focus-aid indication system does not function well with
the particular subject or shooting situation (please refer to page
26 for further details).
Note: While shooting last-moving subjects, one or both of the red arrows
may biink to show that the image is quite dose to the in-focus zone: for
ordinary snapshots, taking the shot even in this situation can produce
satisfactory results. However, if sharp focus is mandatory, continue to
rotate the focusing ring until both red arrows light up continuousiy.
Manual Focus (Using the Matte Portion of the Focusing Screen)
Manual focus is required in the following cases: l) when the
batteries in the DX-1 finder are exhausted, 2) when you are
using a lens which cannot provide autofocus or focus-aid oper
ation, 3) when the focus-impossible warning blinks or lights up
continuously, or 4) when you simply want to focus the lens your
self. With an AF-Nikkor lens, set the A-M switch ® to M; then
turn the lens focusing ring until the image on the matte portion
of the screen inside the viewfinder looks sharp and clear. With
all other lenses, rotate the focusing ring in the normal manner.
Note: With the A-M switch on the AF-Nikkor iens set at A, you cannot
shift the lens distance setting by turning the focusing ring.
25
FOCUS —continued
Special Situations
The F3AF provides autofocus and focus-aid operation in the
majority of cases, inciuding such difficult situations as fastmoving sports events, subjects seen through glass, or scenes
containing point light sources, such as the flame from a candle
or a streetlight at night. However, if the overall subject is dark in
tone (e.g. when the illumination level is less than EV 4 at ASA/
ISO too), low in contrast, or lacks a distinct vertical line, the
focus-impossible warning blinks or glows continuously to inform
you that the camera’s TTL image displacement detecting sys
tem will not work. In this case, you can set the lens' A-M switch
® to M and focus on the main subject manually using the matte
portion of the focusing screen. As an alternative, perform auto
focus or focus-aid operation using another subject, if available,
which is located at the same distance as the one you want to
photograph; then, with the focus lock button depressed on
autofocus or without changing the distance setting in focus-aid
operation, point the camera at the original subject and take
the picture.
26
Dark subject (lllust. 1 )
The red X blinks to show insufficient scene brightness. In this
case, focus manually, or perform autofocus/focus-aid operation
on an alternate subject at the same distance which is lighter
in tone.
Low-contrast subject (lllust. 2), small or finely
detailed subject (lllust. 3)
The red X lights up continuously. In this case, focus manually, or
perform autofocus or focus-aid operation on an alternate sub
ject at the same distance which has more contrast or is larger.
Subject with no vertical lines (lllust. 4)
The red X glows continuously. In this case, turn the camera ver
tically and perform autofocus or focus-aid operation, or focus
manually; alternatively, perform autofocus or focus-aid oper
ation using an alternate subject at the same distance which has
vertical lines.
Subject with high reflectivity (lllust. 5), backlit
subject (lllust. 6), or scene with both far and near
subjects (lllust. 7)
In these cases, both red arrows or the red X light up contin
uously. If the red X appears, focus manually. If both red arrows
are lit, use the matte portion of the screen to check focus. If
your desired subject is out of focus, then focus manually. If it is
in focus, take the shot.
(must. 4)
(must. 5)
(must. 6)
27
EXPOSURE
28
To match the convenience of autofocus, the Nikon
F3AF features aperture-priority auto exposure. All
you do is set the camera at A (Auto) and fire away.
Light is automatically measured through the lens
at full aperture, and the correct shutter speed Is
electronically determined to match the aperture in
use. The F3AF also lets you select the shutter
speed manually for complete creative control.
Because the fast-reacting SPD metering cell Is
located in the camera body below the reflex mirror
@, you have full metering capabilities even with
an interchangeable viewfinder attached. Meter
ing Is centerwelghted; 80% of Its sensitivity Is
concentrated In the 12mmi^ center spot of the
focusing screen, while the remaining 20 % is distri
buted over the rest of the screen. To get the cor
rect exposure, center the main subject in the finder.
There are three factors involved In determining
exposure: film speed, aperture, and shutter speed.
All must be set correctly to get the proper exposure.
16 20 32 40
Setting the Film Speed
To program the F3AF to give the correct exposure with a par
ticular film, you must first set the camera to the correct film
speed. The film speed, represented by an ASA/ISO number, is a
numerical rating of the film’s sensitivity to a given amount of
light: the higher the number, the greater the sensitivity, and vice
versa. This number is printed on the film carton and the cartridge
itself. To handle all film types, the camera’s ASA/ISO dial ® has
settings from ASA/ISO 12 to 6400. Two dots between each pair
of ASA/ISO numbers stand for intermediate settings, such as
64, 80, etc. The table above gives the speeds for all intermediate
settings.
64 80 12M 250 \ 500 1 lOOOj 2000* 4000i
160 320 640 1250 2500 5000
Note: In certain situations, you can set the ASA/ISO dial to a setting
which is different from the recommended fiim speed. For exampie, some
photographers rate their color slide film at a slightly higher ASA/ISO set
ting to produce intentional underexposure for more color saturation. Or
when shooting in very low light, you can "push" high-speed black-andwhite film by doubling or quadrupling the ASA/ISO, then overdeveloping
it to compensate for the underexposure.
29
EXPOSURE —continued-
Setting the Aperture
The second factor in determining exposure is the shooting aper
ture. Aperture, or the opening formed by the diaphragm inside
the iens, controls the amount of light allowed to pass through
the lens and strike the film; it also controls depth of field (see
page 36 for more information). In low light, you are generally
required to use large apertures (indicated by f-numbers which
are low in numerical value, e.g. f/2.8), while in bright light, small
apertures are called for (e.g., f/16). The aperture ring # features
click-stops at whole f/stops but is continuously variable through
out its entire range. With the exception of a few special lenses,
Nikkor and Nikon Series E lenses enable full-aperture light
measurement regardless of the aperture setting. These lenses
have automatic diaphragms, meaning that the diaphragm stops
down to the preset aperture only at the instant of exposure. To
keep you fully informed, the aperture in use appears in the ADR
window ® inside the camera's viewfinder.
30
Setting the Shutter Speed
Shutter speed, or the length of time the shutter remains open,
also determines the amount of light allowed to strike the film.
The Nikon F3AF offers automatic stepless shutter speed control
over the range from 1 /2000 sec. to 8 sec., plus full manual con
trol with a choice of 18 settings, including B, T, and X. All shutter
speeds, except!, are electromagnetically controlled.
The shutter speed dial @ has the following settings:
A (Auto); Provides aperture-priority automatic exposure con
trol in which you first select the shooting aperture, then the
camera sets the corresponding shutter speed for correct
exposure.
1/2000~8 sec.: 15 discrete settings give you full manual con
trol of the shutter speed. The numbers engraved on the dial in
white are reciprocals, for example 2000 means 1/2000 sec. 60,
also a reciprocal, appears in red and indicates the highest
manual shutter speed for proper synchronization with electronic
flash (with the exception of X). Numbers engraved in orange
represent actual shutter speeds, for example an orange 8
means 8 sec.
B (Bulb): The shutter remains open as long as the shutter re
lease button ® is depressed.
T(Time): At this mechanical setting, the shutter stays open until
the dial is rotated to another setting, making it ideal for really
long time exposure. To avoid unnecessary battery drain, follow
this procedure: turn the power switch @ off and make certain
the LCD is not displayed in the finder, then trip the shutter using
the backup mechanical release lever ®.
X (X-sync): Provides 1/80 sec. speed, the proper synchro
nization speed for any electronic flash unit.
To set the shutter speed dial, rotate it until the desired setting
click-stops opposite the index line ®; the dial is locked at the
A and X settings to prevent accidental shifting of the setting. To
move the dial off a locked setting, push the locking button @ as
you rotate the dial. Intermediate settings should not be used.
31
EXPOSURE —continued-
* I? O Q O ^ O O O , loOO^ S OO, (? b (3, Ic"d ^ b Cl ^ cl o ^ > b, S ,
J L
, (neutrai density) fi iter.
With one of these indications dispiayed, correct exposure wiil be obtained.
+ 2000 indicates that the subject is too bright
for the working aperture you have chosen; to
remedy this situation, use a smalier aperture,
if the correct exposure is stiii unobtainabie
even at the smaiiest aperture, use an ND
-8- indicates the subject is too dark and you ■
should use a larger aperture. If the correct
exposure is unobtainable even at maximum
aperture, use an electronic flash or other
supplementary illumination. .
When making blank exposures with the shut-'
ter speed dial set at A or 1/125 sec. or above,
an 80 will appear until you reach frame one. ,
Automatic Exposure Control
Automatic exposure is the most convenient way to shoot with
the Nikon F3AF, because it ailows you to concentrate fuiiy on
the subject without worrying about the exposure. By presetting
the aperture and iocking the shutter speed diai @ at A, the
camera automaticaiiy sets the proper stepless shutter speed
from 1/2000 to 8 sec. as soon as the shutter release button ®
is depressed halfway. To keep you fully informed, the shutter
speed is displayed via LCD in the viewfinder. Speeds between
1/2 and 1/2000 sec. are shown as a reciprocal of the actual
speed, for example 125 means 1/125 sec. Speeds between 1
and 8 seconds are signified by a - symbol appearing to the
.upper right of the number, for example 8" means 8 sec. To make
the display easy to read, intermediate speeds appear in the
display as a discrete shutter speed which is closest to the actual
speed. (For instance, 1/287 sec. might be the automatically
selected shutter speed in use, but 250 will be displayed.) The
LCD stays on for approx. 16 sec. after you remove your finger
from the shutter button.
Before shooting, check the exposure display.
Note: The camera's effective metering range depends on the shutter
speed and aperture in use at a particular film speed. Please refer to
pp. 66-69 for more information.
■ 8\ So
J 1__i
32
Use a larger aperture or slower
shutter speed.
Use a smaller aperture or faster
shutter speed.
Within ±1/4 EV.
Manual Exposure Control
In the manual exposure mode, you can shoot at any combination
of f/stop and shutter speed from 1/2000 to 8 sec., enabiing you
to select your desired shutter speed. Manual exposure is also
required when stop-down exposure measurement is necessary
or when you want to use the B, T, or X setting.
Except at the B, T, and X settings, the shutter speed you set is
shown in the viewfinder immediately after the shutter release
button ® is depressed halfway. As before, the - symbol at the
upper right of the number indicates shutter speeds from 1 to 8
sec. Also the letter M appears to the left of the number, indicat
ing the manual exposure mode. Above the M, the following
symbols appear: -, -i-, and -+ which indicate underexposure,
overexposure, and correct exposure, respectively. To obtain
correct exposure, simply turn the shutter speed dial @ and/or
aperture ring until the - + symbol appears. The LCD stays on
approx. 16 sec. after you remove your finger from the button.
Intermediate settings on the shutter speed dial cannot be used
while those on the lens aperture ring # can be. Therefore, stop
the lens aperture down or open it up to the appropriate inter
mediate setting when fine adjustment of the exposure is
necessary.
When making blank exposures with the shutter speed dial set
between 1/125 and 1/2000 sec., the shutter fires at 1/80 sec.
with M 80 displayed until the frame counter reaches one.
At the BorT setting, an M'appears in the viewfinder.
At X, an M* 80 appears. However, the -I- does not mean over
exposure, because the meter does not function at this setting;
as soon as a dedicated Nikon Speedlight is attached to the
F3AF and turned on, the + disappears from the display, leaving
just M 80.
33
EXPOSURE —Continued-
Shutter speed (sec.) 1/2000 1/1000
Aperture (f-number)
2.8 4 5.6 1
1/500 1/250
1
______
1
1/125 1/60
8 11 16
Relationship Between Shutter Speed and Aperture
The amount of light reaching the film plane is determined by a
combination of the shutter speed and the lens aperture. A
shutter speed of 1/125 sec. lets in twice as much light as a set
ting of 1/250 sec. and only half as much light as 1/60 sec. An
aperture setting of f/11 lets in twice as much light as f/16, half
as much as f/8. Thus, if the correct exposure for a particular
picture-taking situation is 1/125 at f/11, then 1/250 at f/8 or 1/60
at f/16 will give the same exposure.
The table above illustrates the interrelationship between shutter
speed and aperture.
34
The best combination will depend on the results you want. Use
fast shutter speeds to freeze motion; use slow speeds to pro
duce a deliberate blur. Also, small apertures give greater depth
of field, while large apertures restrict the zone of sharp focus to
the main subject. (For more detailed information about depth
of field, refer to page 36.)
A good rule to follow in preventing camera shake is to select a
minimum shutter speed which is the reciprocal of the focal
length of the lens in use. For example, when using a normal
50mm lens, select a speed no slower than 1/60 sec. (the closest
number to 1/50). For a 200 mm super-telephoto, use no less
than 1/250 sec. and so forth.
■ '4'- .J ' , i’,*?'. • J? 4^
“'*' ’ ¿4, ' ■^'^ ■ ■ ■., ‘ ’ ‘‘i *
• ■> l-J
- *.,■<-'. - ^.v ''
'■" '•at'*»"*''
— • .-M- :
A fast shutter speed freezes
the rider and background.
■■ ' iii Z f -
By panning the camera, a slow one allows
the background to blur.
35
EXPOSURE —Continued-
Depth of Field
When you shoot at a certain aperture and focusing distance,
you wiii find that not only the main subject but objects in a cer
tain distance range in front of and behind it will be sharp in the
final photograph. Objects beyond this range become increas
ingly out of focus. This "in-focus zone” is known as depth of
field. When this zone of sharpness is large, the depth of field is
said to be deep; when it is small, the depth of field is said to
be shallow.
The following is true of depth of field:
1) The smaller the shooting aperture (i.e. the larger the numeri
cal f-number), the deeper the depth of field; the larger the
aperture, the shallower the depth of field.
2) The farther away the subject is from the lens, the deeper the
depth of field becomes; the closer to the lens, the shallower
the depth of field.
36
3) The longer the focal length of a lens, the shallower the depth
of field at each f/stop; the shorter the focal length, the deeper
the depth of field.
4) There is greater depth of field behind the main subject than
in front of it.
The depth of field at each aperture is indicated on the lens by a
set of color-coded lines ® (corresponding to the colors of the
f-numbers on the aperture ring) which are used in conjunction
with the distance scale ®. The range is indicated by the dis
tance between the lines.
Note: Certain Zoom-Nikkor and special-purpose Nikkor lenses do not
have a depth-of-field scale.
Depth-of-field preview button d)
When a lens with an automatic diaphragm is used, the image in
the viewfinder is viewed with the lens at maximum aperture.
However, by depressing the depth-of-field preview button,
the lens will be stopped down to the aperture set, enabling you
to examine depth of field before shooting. The image in the view
finder darkens according to the selected f-number: the smaller
the aperture (i.e., the larger f-number), the darker the image.
Components of the picture that appear in focus when the button
is depressed will be in the zone of sharp focus.
Note that the button should be depressed all the way.
Note: When shooting in the automatic exposure mode with an Al lens,
do not release the shutter while depressing the preview button; improper
exposure may result.
To illustrate depth of field, the following photos were taken with
the AF-Nikkor 80mm f/2.8 lens at a focused distance of 5m; the
only difference is that they were shot at various apertures. Con
trol of depth of field enables you to create photos having selec
tive focus (where the major subject stands out from the back
ground and/or foreground) or overall sharpness (in which all
elements in the picture appear sharp). Depth of field imparts to
your picture a character all its own.
37
EXPOSURE —continued-
l-
Lens set at f/2.8
38
-■v^i-îçfNe^s- »s.-^555555Г*
-,- ' л'; г»*^
-"» .. - Г.*-,-— ®
'i'.îçrT’t:.' -г" л- _■ ,~- <^feaKfeâs^r?3*^.v,,,- ..
Lens set at f/16
Suggested Applications for Exposure Compensation
+ 2 White background, snow scene
-I-1 White background occupying half of viewing area
-1 spotlighted subject, black background occupying
half of viewing area
-2 black background
Exposure Compensation
In the vast majority of cases, the F3AF provides the correct
exposure on automatic. However, certain situations require a
deviation from the automatic exposure setting. For this purpose,
the F3AF features both an exposure compensation dial @ and
a memory lock button ®.
Exposure compensation dial
This dial adjusts the exposure by increasing or decreasing the
automatically selected shutter speed. When the scene is un
usually light or dark in tone (e.g., a snow scene), exposure com
pensation must be made to prevent over- or underexposure.
Or under normal conditions, you can intentionally over- or under
expose the shot to create special “high-key" or "low-key” effects.
To make exposure compensation, push the locking button ® as
you rotate the exposure compensation dial. It is graduated in
one-third stop increments: -1 and -2 indicate one and two
stops less exposure, whereas -F 1 and -F 2 indicate one and two
stops additional exposure. At ASA/ISO 6400, the compensation
extends to only -1: at ASA/ISO 12, up to -F 1. After use make
sure to reset the dial to “0."
The recommended exposure compensation settings for various
subjects and picture-taking situations are shown above.
Note: Because the LCD shows only discrete shutter speeds, a slight
adjustment of the exposure compensation dial, such as + 1/3, may not
be reflected in a change in shutter speed.
39
EXPOSURE —continued-
Memory lock button
Another way of making exposure compensation with the F3AF
on automatic is to use the exposure memory lock button. When
there is a substantial difference in brightness between the main
subject and the background, such as a strongly backlit subject,
the camera’s exposure meter is likely to be fooled, resulting
in under- or overexposure (Fig. 1). To compensate for this,
center the main subject in the viewfinder or move in close to
the subject, depress the memory lock button and hold it in: then
recompose and shoot (Fig. 2).
Note: In autofocus operation, you must also depress the locus lock
button when recomposing with the subject off-center to keep it in
sharp focus.
40
Stop-Down Exposure Measurement
When using a non-AI lens or certain close-up accessories, you
must push the meter coupling lever release button ® and lock
the meter coupling lever ® in the “up" position before mounting
a lens or attaching an accessory. In this case, the diaphragm in
the lens does not link with the meter coupling lever on the
camera body. Therefore, you must perform stop-down metering.
The procedure is as follows:
For non-AI lenses with automatic diaphragms
On auto: Push the depth-of-field preview button ® all the way in
and hold it as you trip the shutter.
Caution: If the depth-of-field preview buttoh is not depressed all the way,
the mirror ® may remain in the "up" position.
On manual: Select a shutter speed. Then hold in the preview
button and turn the lens aperture ring # until the -■¥ symbol
appears in the viewfinder. Release the preview button and take
the shot.
For non-AI lenses or accessories without automatic
diaphragms
On auto: Stop the lens down manually until the desired shutter
speed appears in the viewfinder. Then take the picture.
On manual: Adjust the shutter speed or aperture until the - +
sign appears.
For fixed-aperture lenses, photomicrography,
or astrophotography
On auto: No control is necessary; just take the picture.
On manual: Adjust the shutter speed dial until the - + appears.
If correct exposure is unobtainable, use an ND (neutral density)
filter or change the illumination to adjust the exposure.
41
OTHER CONTROLS
Shutter Release Button @
Depressing the button halfway switches on the exposure meter
and autotocus function and activates the viewfinder LED and
LCD displays for focus/exposure information. Both displays stay
on for approx. 16 sec., even after taking your finger off the but
ton, then turn themselves off automatically to conserve battery
power. Depressing the button all the way down releases the
shutter. The shutter release button is threaded in its center to
accept a standard cable release for tripping the shutter with the
camera mounted on a tripod.
Notes;
1) The shutter cannot be tripped using the shutter release button unless:
a) the camera's power switch @ is turned on, b) the film advance lever
» is stroked completely to cock the shutter, and c) the batteries are
in proper working order. To release the shutter when the batteries are
dead, use the backup mechanical release lever ®, referring to the
next page.
2) At the B setting, unless you hold the shutter release button down all
the way, the shutter may close prematurely.
3) Do not screw a tripod into the camera's tripod socket 6) too tightly.
42
Backup Mechanical Release Lever ®
This lever is provided as an alternative method of releasing the
shutter in case the camera's batteries become weak or com
pletely exhausted. To operate the lever, first use your fingernail
to pull it down to the ready position. Then push it down to trip
the shutter. The shutter operates at a mechanical speed of
approx. 1/60 sec. at any setting on the shutter speed dial, except
T. At T, push down the backup mechanical release lever with
the power switch @ off.
Caution: If you advance the film while holding down the backup mechan-
icat release lever, the shutter will fire immediately at the completion of
the film advance stroke, thus wasting a frame. Also, if you fail to advance
the film completely and then use the lever to trip the shutter, the mirror
® will remain in the "up" position; when the additional stroke is made to
complete film winding, the shutter will lire, also wasting a frame.
Film Advance Lever (§)
The film advance lever is coaxial w/ith the shutter release button
® and is specially contoured to fit the thumb. To advance the
film, wind the lever to the right all the way until it stops. It auto
matically returns to the standoff position the moment you take
your thumb off it. One complete stroke or a series of shorter
ones advances the film by a sihgle frame and simultaneously
cocks the shutter.
At the end of the film roll, the lever stops working. Do not attempt
to wind the lever further; just rewind the film.
Note: If the lever becomes difficult to operate at the beginning of the
roll, this means that the film is not winding onto the takeup spool ® prop
erly. In this case, rewind the film immediately and load the film again.
Frame Counter ®
To keep track of the number of exposed frarnes, the frame
counter is graduated from two frames below 0 up to 40. Blue
numerals appear every 5 frames (0, 5, 10, etc.), with dots in
between. White marks at 12, 20, 24, and 36 indicate the number
of frames available on most film cartridges. When making blank
shots with the shutter speed dial @ set to "A," the shutter will
fire at 1/80 sec. until the frame counter reaches the first frame.
In addition, the LCD shows 80 in the finder. Or, if you set the dial
manually between 1/125 and 1/2000 sec., the shutter will still
fire at 1/80 sec. In the finder, an M 80 is displayed. However, if
the speed is manually set to 1/80 sec. (X) or below, the shutter
will fire at the speed set with the LCD indicating that speed.
Therefore, to speed up film loading, set the dial to A or to 1/125
sec. or above.
When the camera back ® is opened, the frame counter auto
matically resets to two frames below zero.
43
OTHER CONTROLS —continued-
Eyepiece Shutter Lever ®
When it is impossible to keep your eye at the viewfinder (such
as when utilizing the self-timer), you should use the eyepiece
shutter. This shutter prevents stray light from entering the eye
piece and adversely affecting the automatic exposure meter
reading and autofocus function. Just push the lever to the left
to close the shutter. As a visual reminder that it is in use, the
blind is painted red.
44
Self-Timer
The F3AF’s blinking self-timer provides a 10-sec. delay in shutter
release. To operate the self-timer, push the self-timer lever @ to
uncover the red dot (Fig. 1). (When using the camera in the
autofocus and/or automatic exposure modes, don’t forget to
close the eyepiece shutter to prevent stray light from entering
the eyepiece.) Then push the shutter release button.® (Fig. 2).
Immediately the red LED ®ion the front of the camera will start
blinking and then speed up during the final two seconds before
the shutter opens to warn you to get ready (Fig. 3). Finally, re
turn the self-timer lever to its original position after use (Fig. 4).
If you want to cancel the self-timer after pushing the shutter
release button, return the self-timer lever to its original position.
This will prevent the picture from being taken.
Note: The B setting on the shutter speed dial @ does not function as B
with the self-timer.
Mirror Lockup Lever ®
In the following situations, the F3AF’s mirror ® must be locked
in the "up” position: when you want to operate the Motor Drive
MD-4 at 6 frames per second or when using certain fisheye
lenses which do not feature through-fhe-lens viewing. Also,
when using super-telephoto lenses or doing photomicrography,
it becomes necessary to minimize camera vibration. To lock the
reflex viewing mirror in the "up" position, push in the depth-offield preview button d) and rotate the lever counterclockwise
until it stops. To return the mirror to the “down" position, rotate
the lever clockwise until it stops.
Do not release the shutter unless the mirror is completely in the
"up” or “down" position.
Caution: With the mirror locked up, you should not operate the camera
on automatic. Even though the LCD continues to show you the shutter
speed automatically selected by the camera, this speed will not produce
the correct exposure. Autofocus operation with the mirror in the "up"
position is also impossible.
Viewfinder illuminator ®
A convenient built-in viewfinder illuminator lets you see the LCD
exposure information and the aperture, even in dim light. To turn
on the illuminator, push the red illuminator button ® located at
the base of the viewfinder just in front of the shutter speed dial
®. Please remember that the illuminator only lights up when
the camera’s exposure meter is switched on, but turns off as
soon as you remove your finger from the button.
Notes:
1) If you plan to use the illuminator for extended periods, take along a
spare set of fresh batteries lor the camera body, because the illumi
nator consumes a lot of power.
2) At low temperatures or with nearly exhausted batteries, using the
illuminator might temporarily lower the voltage, causing the LCD to
disappear. If the LCD appears again when the illuminator is off, you
can release the shutter without replacing the batteries.
45
OTHER CONTROLS —continued
Multiple Exposure Lever ®
For creative and unusual effects, the F3AF allows you to record
more than one image on the same frame of film. To make double
or multiple exposures, follow this procedure:
1) Take the first shot.
2) Then to recock the shutter without advancing the film, push
the multiple exposure lever forward (Fig. 1), and stroke the
advance lever 1.39). Immediately the multiple exposure lever
will spring back to its normal position (Fig. 2).
3) Now you are ready to take the second shot on the same
frame. For more than two shots on the same frame, just re
peat the same procedure for each additional exposure. When
you have finished, simply advance the film normally to the
next frame. While making multiple exposures, the frame
counter does not advance. The multiple exposure setting
cannot be cancelled once the lever is set in the "out” position.
Note: If you wish to cancel the multiple exposure setting, first cover the
lens with the lens cap and close the eyepiece shutter: then make a blank
shot and advance the film to the next frame.
46
Memo Holder ®
As a reminder of the film type and the number of exposures on
the roll in use, clip off the end of the film carton and insert it into
the memo holder. While loading the film, insert the film carton
end before closing the camera back. When film is already
loaded, you must remove the DX-1 finder.
Film Plane Indicator ®
The film plane Indicator (-®-) Is engraved In white on the top deck
just behind the shutter speed dial. It indicates the exact position
of the film plane inside the camera. Whenever it becomes
necessary to measure the exact distance between the subject
andfilm plane, such as in macrophotography, use the film plane
indicator. The distance between the film plane and the lens
mounting flange is exactly 46.5 mm.
Infrared Focusing Index
The red dot beside the focusing index on most lenses is the
infrared focusing index. When shooting with black-and-white
(but not color) infrared film, it is necessary to refocus the lens to
compensate for the fact that infrared light rays focus at a point
slightly in front of visible light.
In infrared photography, use of the R60 filter is required. At first,
focus on your subject through the viewfinder by rotating the lens
focusing ring ® without the filter in place. Then look at the lens
and take note of the focused distance. Reset the focusing ring
so that the desired distance is aligned with the red dot. Finally
take pictures with the filter attached.
Note: Automatic focusing is impossibie in black-and-white infrared
photography.
47
FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY
The Nikon F3AF has been specially designed to make electronic
flash photography easier than ever. When used with an acces
sory Nikon dedicated flash unif, the camera offers fully auto
matic through-the-lens (TTL) control of the flash exposure. This
means that while the shutter is open, the camera's silicon
photodiode (SPD) reads the light reflected directly off the film
and tells the flash unit to cut itself off when the exposure
is correct.
To prevent mistakes, the camera also offers automatic switch
over of the shutter speed for proper synchronization. With the
shutter speed dial @ set at A or 1/125 sec. or above, the shutter
speed is automatically switched to 1/80 sec. as soon as the
flash is turned on. As a reminder, the LCD shows 80 on auto or
M 80 on manual. For creative fill-in flash effects, you can set the
speed manually to 1 /60 sec. or below and the shutter fires at the
speed set with the speed in use displayed in the viewfinder.
For non-dedicated flash units, an X setting is provided, giving
you the proper manual speed of 1/80 sec. At X, M* 80 appears
in the LCD. Flowever, if you use a Nikon dedicated flash unit at
this setting, M 80 appears as soon as the unit is turned on.
When shooting manually with any flash unit, it is necessary to
determine the flash unit's guide number for the film you are
using; then set the aperture to match the shooting distance.
48
Accessory Shoe ®
Located at the base of the rewind knob @i, the accessory shoe
allows direct mounting of a Nikon dedicated flash unit, such as
the SB-12, SB-16A or SB-17. To mount other direct-mounting
flash units (having either an ISO- or Nikon F2-type mounting
foot) to the FSAF’s accessory shoe, a Nikon Flash Unit Coupler
is required (for details, refer to page 56.) The accessory shoe
also accepts accessory cords, such as the SC-12 and SC-13, for
convenient flash photography with Nikon bracket-mounting
units, such as the SB-11 and 14.
Three electrical contacts ® on the accessory shoe provide for
synchronization of the flash unit, automatic TTL output control,
and ready-light indication (via an LED) in the camera's view
finder, plus auto switching to the proper synchronization speed
of 1/80sec.
Caution: For flash photography, it is recommended that you use a
Nikon dedicated electronic flash unit which operates with a low-vottage
current. The use of any other flash which operates at high voltages may
damage the camera's circuitry: any damage caused by such use is not
covered by the Nikon Warranty.
49
FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY—continued
Sync Terminal ®
A separate sync terminal with a protective screw-in cover is
provided on the Nikon F3AF. When using flashbulbs or an elec
tronic flash unit without a hot-shoe contact, It Is necessary to
use the camera’s sync terminal. It accepts all standard plug-in
PC cords, plus It Is threaded for use with a Nikon screw-in
PC cord.
Speedlight
1/20001/10001/500 1/250
FP
Flashbulb M
MF
[ I Synchronized
I I Cannot be used
50
1/125 1/60 1/30 1/15 1/8 1/4 1/2 1 2 4 8 X(1/80) B
The F3AF features an X-sync contact only, allowing electronic
flash units to be synchronized at a speed of 1/80 sec. (X)
or slower.
Shutter speed (sec.)
Ready-Light
A built-in LED ready-light is provided in the upper right-hand
portion of the viewfinder outside the picture area. When a Nikon
dedicated flash unit (or a TTL sensor cord) is attached to the
accessory shoe ®, the ready-light comes on as soon as the
flash is recycled, indicating that the unit is ready to fire. So, you
never have to remove your eye from the viewfinder. Moreover,
in fhe TTL mode, whenever the flash unit fires at its maximum
output, the ready-light starts blinking for approx, two seconds,
warning you that the light was probably insufficient for correct
exposure. As an additional warning, it blinks if the flash is not
connected properly or if the ASA/ISO setting on the camera is
outside the dedicated flash unit’s range of ASA/ISO 25~400.
For more detailed information, refer to the flash unit’s instruc
tion manual.
Nikon F3AF/Speedlight Combination Chart
Speedlight
SB-17
SB-16A
SB-12* yes yes TTL, manual
1
(with SC-12)
SB-11/14 (with SC-13)
(with SC-11)
SB-19** (with AS-4, 7)
SB-18** (with AS-4, 7)
SB-15 (with AS-4, 7)*
SB-10 (with AS-4, 7)
SB-7E (with AS-3)
(with SC-6)
SB-6
(with AS-3,
SC-9, SU-1)
1 SB-E** (with AS-4, 7) |
'With the SB-12 or SB-15 mounted on the Nikon F3AF, the fiash head
cannot be rotated so that it is over the AF Finder DX-1.
Camera's
ready-light
yes yes
yes
yes
yes yes
no no auto, manual
yes
yes
yes yes
yes yes auto, manual
no no
no no manual, MD
1
no
yes yes auto only
•The SB-19, SB-18 and SB-E cannot be mounted on the F3AF unless
the Eyelevel Finder DE-2 or Fligh-Eyepoint Finder DE-3 is used.
Shutter
speed auto
changeover
yes
Usable flash
output control
TTL, auto,
manual, MD
TTL, auto,
manual, MD
yes TTL, manual
auto, manual
yes auto only
yes
manual only
auto, manual,
MD
auto, manual
no
auto, manual,
MD
51
ACCESSORIES
^pBrP
DE-2 DE-3
Interchangeable Viewfinders
In addition to the AF Finder DX-1, the F3AF camera also accepts
other interchangeable viewfinders designed for the regular
Nikon F3. With them, all Nikkor and Nikon Series E lenses,
including the AF-Nikkors, are usable with the F3AF body. Re
gardless of which finder is attached, you still have full automatic
exposure control because the meter is built into the camera
body rather than the finder. The camera's autofocus control,
however, cannot be used with viewfinders other than the DX-1.
The Eyelevel Finder DE-2 offers regular eyelevel viewing and
provides an upright and unreversed image in the viewfinder. The
Fligh-Eyepoint Finder DE-3 gives you the same eyelevel viewing,
but allows eyeglass wearers and action photographers alike to
52
NiK^
W-3
DA-2
DW-4
see the entire frame with the eye up to approx, 25mm away
from the eyepiece. The Waist-Levei Finder DW-3 is ideal when
you want to use the camera at a low angle or upside down over
your head for shooting over crowds. The Action Finder DA-2
works well for those situations when you cannot bring your eye
close to the finder, such as in fast-breaking sports events, when
you are wearing a helmet or goggles, or when the camera is
enclosed in waterproof underwater housing. The 6X Magnifi
cation Finder DW-4 is for critical high-magnification close-up
work or photomicrography.
When using the DA-2 or DW-3, be careful that stray light does
not enter from the top and cause an inflated meter reading.
To remove the finder, use your thumb and forefinger to siide the
finder release levers @ toward the back of the camera; then lift
the finder out. Before attaching another viewfinder, a focusing
screen must be installed (please refer to page 54). To attach the
new finder, position it above the camera with the nameplate
facing toward the front of the camera, and gently push the view
finder down until it is fully seated in place. Make sure the finder
is attached securely.
Do not forget to remove the focusing screen from the body when
you reattach the AF Finder DX-1. If not, both the focusing screen
inside the camera body and the one built into the bottom of the
DX-1 might be damaged.
Caution:
1) When handling the F3AF with the DX-1 removed, be careful not to soil
or damage the electrical contacts at the bottom of the finder or the
matching ones inside the camera body at the top of the mirror box.
Aiso do not short-circuit them.
2) Do not pick up the camera by the finder only. The force may cause
damage to the camera.
3) To prevent dirt from getting inside the finder, always keep the eyepiece
glass attached.
4) When storing the DX-1 separately from the camera body, attach the
protective cover (supplied with the camera) to prevent the built-in finder
screen from becoming scratched.
53
ACCESSORIES —Continued-
Focusing Screens
When using a viewfinder other than the standard AF Finder
DX-1, you have a choice of 21 interchangeabie focusing screens,
as iisted on the next page. To instaii a focusing screen, simpiy
insert the front edge (the edge with the siot in the middie) under
the pin and push the rear edge of the screen down into piace.
To take out the focusing screen, first remove the finder, then
insert your fingernaii under the rear edge of the screen and
iift it out.
54
Note: For more information on which screens are compatibie with which
ienses, consult the instruction manual supplied with the tens.
Focusing Screen Selector Guide
Typ e A : Matte/Fresnei field with 3mm4> circular split-image rangefinder spot and
12ттф reference circle. Rapid and accurate fxusing. Excellent for general
photography.
Typ e B: Matte/Fresnel field with 3mm^ fine-ground matte focusing spot and
12ттф reference circle. Good for general photography, especially with long lenses.
и
Typ e C : Fine-ground matte field with 4ттф clear spot and cross hair. For
photomicrography, astrophotography and other high-magnification applications,
©
using parallax focusing on aerial Images.
тур е 0 : Overall fine-ground matte field. For specialized close-up photography and
for use with long lenses.
Typ e E : Matte/Fresnel field with 3mm4> fine-ground matte spot. 12ттф reference
circle, and etched horizontal and vertical lines. Ideal for architectural photography.
:i(ii
Typ e 6; Clear Fresnel field with extra-bright 12ттф micropri^ focusing spot for
4
viewing and focusing in poor light. Four models (G1~G4) are available corre
sponding to specific focal length lenses. Depth of field cannot be observed.
■
lype H; Clear Fresnel field with microprism focusing pattern over the entire screen
A. -loj, Permits rapid focusing on any part of the screen with optimum edge-to-edge
/ ^ . licular local length lenses.
brightness in poor light. Available in four models (H1~H4) corresponding to
Typ e J: Matte/Fresnel field with central microprism focusing spot and 12ттф
circle. Good tor general photography.
■
ш
ш
1 ,
}
—
■
Туре К: Combination of Type А and J screens. Matte/Fresnel fieid with Зттф spilt-
image rangefinder spot surrounded by 1 mm-wide microprism doughnut. Rapid and
accurate focusing for subjects with both straight lines and ill-defined contours.
Suitable for general photography.
Type L: Same as Type A screen but with split-image rangefinder line at a 45^ angle.
Best for subjects with horizontal lines.
Type M; Fine-ground Fresnel field with 5.5ттф clear spot and double cross hair for
use in parallax focusing on aerial image, plus millimeter scales for calculation of
individual magnification of objects or for measuring objects. Brilliant image in dim
light. Suitable for close-ups, photomicrography and other high-magnification
applications.
Type P: Same as Type К but with split-image rangefinder line at a 45° angle and
etched horizontal and vertical lines as an aid to composition. Rapid and accurate
focusing for subject with horizontal or vertical lines or ill-defined contours. Suitable
for general photography.
Type R: Same as Type A but with rangefinder prisms of sloping surfaces at a smaller
angle and horizontal and vertical lines to aid proper composition. Works best with
lenses having maximum apertures from f/3.5 to f/5.6.
Type T: Matte/Fresnel ^eld with split-image rangefinder, 12mm^ reference circle,
and horizontal and vertical lines. Used when preparing slides for TV broadcasts.
Dotted lines indicate standard TV screen format. Solid outline shows “safe action"
area, whereas broken lines indicate “safe title" area.
туре U: Matte/Fresnel field with Зттф fine-ground matte focusing spot and
12 mm^ reference circle. Utilizes the same matte field as Type B, but with lenses
longer than 100mm the image in the viewfinder is easier to see. With shorter focal-
length lenses, this screen is not suitable because of light fall-off in the comer.
55
ACCESSORIES —Continued-
Electronic Flash Equipment
Indispensable for shooting in dim light and at night or for filling
in the shadows in daylight, Nikon Speedlights are dedicated
electronic flash units which complement your Nikon F3AF per
fectly. Everything about these Speedlights is automatic—all you
have to do is set the aperture and the flash output is measured
through the lens, ensuring the correct exposure regardless of
the lens in use.
Speedlights SB-12, SB-16A and SB-17
Compact and light, Nikon SB-12, SB-16A and SB-17 mount
directly on the camera to provide automatic TTL control of the
flash exposure. The SB-12 has a guide number of 25 (ASA/ISO
100 and meters) or 41 (ASA/ISO 25 and feet). The SB-16A
features a zoom head with four zoom setfings for 28, 35, 50 and
85mm lenses with a guide number of 32 (ASA/ISO 100 and
meters) or 52 (ASA/ISO 25 and feet) for the 35mm setting. For
bounce flash, it has two flash heads: the main head not only tilts
back 90° but rotates 270°, while the smaller secondary head
faces straight ahead to provide a catchlight for the eyes. Similar
in size and power rating to the SB-12, the SB-17 employs a tilting
flashtube module for convenient bounce flash.
56
F3AF with SB-17
F3AF with SB-16A
Speedlights SB-11 and 14
For those photographers requiring a separate bracket-mounting
unit, Nikon has the SB-11 and SB-14. The guide number of the
SB-11 is 36 (ASA/iSO 100 and meters) or 60 (ASA/iSO 25 and
feet), whiie the SB-14, which requires a separate battery pack,
has a guide number of 32 (ASA/iSO 100 and meters) or 52
(ASA/ISO 25 and feet). For automatic TTL controi, these units
must be used with the TTL Sensor Cord SC-12. Featuring tiiting
fiash heads, the SB-11 and 14 ailow you to bounce the iight
easiiy off the ceiiing or walis for softer, more fiattering lighting
for portraits.
Flash Unit Couplers AS-3,4, and 7
To mount other direct mounting flash units on the F3AF's acces
sory shoe, a Nikon Flash Unit Coupler is required. The AS-3
coupler is necessary when mounting the Nikon SB-7, while the
AS-4 or AS-7 is for the SB-15, SB-E, or SB-10. A special feature
of the AS-7 is that it lets you change film without removing the
flash unit.
F3AF with
SB-14
57
ACCESSORIES —continued
Motor Drive MD-4
One of the most exciting accessories for the F3AF camera is
the Motor Drive MD-4. This amazingly compact, iight, and
streamlined unit attaches to the bottom of the camera in sec
onds and advances the film either singly or in sequence up to
6* frames per second—making it the fastest regular production
motor drive on the market today. Actual controls have been re
duced to only those necessary for convenient operation. In
addition to the electromagnetic trigger button (which also turns
on the camera’s meter when depressed halfway), there are its
concentric S-C (Single/Continuous) mode selector, a battery
check button and LED indicators, two interlocking rewind slides
for automatic film rewinding, and a subtractive frame counter
which stops the motor at the desired number of frames. Eight
AA-type penlight batteries fit into a quick-release clip housed in
the base of the motor drive. An optional NiCd battery pack is
available for use in cold weather or when you want the fastest
possible firing rate. Once you attach the MD-4 to your camera,
you’ll never want to take it off.
The Firing Rate Converter MK-1 is available as a special
accessory for a motor-driven F3AF. It screws into the tripod
socket of the MD-4 and plugs into the remote terminal to pro
vide three firing rates—1,2, or 3 frames per second—allowing
you to operate the motor drive on continuous while the camera
focuses automatically. It has its own handy trigger button for
use in vertical-format shooting.
The Magazine Back MF-4 for shooting up to 250 frames with
out changing film is also available as an option.
'Possible with NiCd battery pack at 1/125 sec. or above with the mirror
locked up.
58
Data Back MF-14
To keep track of when photos were taken, the F3AF accepts the
Data Back MF-14 which slips on in place of the regular camera
back ® with no sync cord needed. Three imprinting modes are
possible: year/month/day, day^hour/minute, or picture counting;
information is displayed clearly on the data back via an LCD and
then is imprinted on the film at the instant of exposure. Serving
as a handy clock, a quartz timer with an alarm function is also
incorporated.
59
ACCESSORIES —continued-
Close-Up Equipment
For shooting subjects which are iocated cioser than the ciosest
possibie focusing distance of the iens, Nikon makes a wide
variety of equipment:
1) Cióse- Up Attachment Lenses Nos. 0,1,2, 3T, 4T, 5T, and 6T.
These ienses screw into the front of the iens just iike fiiters
to magnify the image. Exposure metering can stiii be done at
fuil aperture without compensation.
2) Auto Extension Rings PK-11, PK-12, PK-13.
These fit between the iens and camera body. Used singiy or
in combination, exposure determination is done at fuii aper
ture with ail Al-type lenses. (The PK-11 cannot be attached to
the AF-Nikkor lenses.)
3) Bellows Focusing Attachment PB-6.
The PB-6 is also attached between the lens and camera body.
Exposure is determined by the stop-down method. The
beauty of this accessory is that you can change magnifi
cations continuously by extending the bellows.
4) Micro-Nikkor 55mmf/2.8,105mm f/4, and 200mm f/4 IF.
These specially designed lenses offer continuous focusing
from infinity down to 1/2X lifesize. To obtain 1/2X to IX mag
nification with an Al Micro-Nikkor lens, the use of an auto
extension ring is required: the PK-13 for the 55mm f/2.8, and
the PN-11 for the 105mm f/4; to obtain magnifications from
infinity up to IX with the 200mm f/4 IF, use the Nikon Tele
converter TC-300. Even with these accessories, exposure is
determined at full aperture. Note that in close-up photography,
depth of field is generally shallow. Thus, you should stop down
as much as possible when photographing a subject with great
depth. Since Micro-Nikkor lenses are not compatible with the
F3AF's autofocus and focus-aid functions, focusing must be
done by manually rotating the focusing ring ®) while using the
matte portion of the DX-l’s focusing screen. For critical
60
focusing in ciose-up photography, the use of a suitabie inter
changeable focusing screen and accessory viewfinder is
recommended.
When using close-up equipment such as a bellows unit or exten
sion ring(s) attached between the F3AF camera body and
lens, focus-aid operation depends on lens extension from the
camera’s mounting flange, as shown in the following table.
Lenses from
24mm to 50mm
Lenses from
56mm to 85mm
Lens maximum
aperture
f/1.2, f/1.4
f/1.8, f/2
f/2.5, f/2.8 One-half the lens focal length
f/1.2
f/1.4
f/2
f/2.8 One-fifth of the lens focal length
Maximum permissible extension
of lens for focus-aid operation
Twice the tens focal length
Four-fifth of the lens focal length
Twice the lens focal length
Four-fifth of the lens focal length
One-half the lens focal length
For lenses not appearing in this list, focus-aid operation is im
possible with any close-up equipment attached. In addition,
focus-aid operation cannot be performed when a lens is mounted
in the reverse position.
Notes:
1) The F3AF's meter coupling lever ® should be pushed up before at
taching a bellows unit or non-AI extensior: rings, such as the PK-1, 2,
3.PN-1, etc.
2) Before attaching the PB-6 to the F3AF, the DX-1 Finder should be first
removed from the camera body.
3) Auto Extension Rings PK-1 and PK-11, Extension Ring K1 and Auto
Adapter Ring BR-4 cannot be attached to AF-Nikkor lenses.
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