Nikon 1683, FM-2 User Manual

Nikon

INSTRUCTION

MANUAL

CE

NOMENCLATURE

ADR

CD

Shutter speedlASAIiSO film speed

® Shutter release button

Meter coupling lever @

® Shutter release fingerguard Sync cord terminal @

Lens mounting index @

® Depth-of-field preview lever Focusing screen release latch @

window @

® Self-timer lever

(J)

Lens

flange

Lens release button

Reflex mirror @

@

® Film advance lever Film sprockets ®
®

@J

Viewfinder eyepiece

(jj) Rewind fork

@ Shutter curtains

@ Film cartridge chamber

Serial number ®

® Film guide pin

@ Film guide rails

@ Data back contacts Locking catch @

2

Film anti-curl roller @

@ Meter coupling shoe

@ Meter coupling ridge

® Hot-shoe contact

@ R

..

"nv-linlht

contact

@ Accessory shoe

® Camera back lock lever

@ Film rewind knob

@ Film rewind crank

® Film plane indicator

@ Motor drive shutter coupling

@ Motor drive coupling
@ Film rewind button

Distance scale @

Focusing ring

Aperture scale @

Aperture ring @

ADR

scale ®

Shutter speed index ®

Shutter speed dial ®

Multiple exposure lever @

Frame counter

ASAIISO film speed indicator ®

ASA/ISO film speed dial ®

Tripoc socket @

Motor drive electrical contacts

Battery chamber lid @

@

@

®

@ Memo holder

Film pressure plate @

camera back @

3

CONTENTS---------------------------

NOMENCLATURE . .

FOREWORD . ....

BASIC OPERATION

CONTROLS

Film advance lever ..................

Frame counter
Shutter release button . .
ASAIISO film speed dial. .
Shutter speed dial/exposure determination .

Setting the shutter speed ...

Setting the aperture ... .

Exposure determination . ..
Exposure display
Metering range
Stop-down exposure measurement . ..
Exposure measurement in special cases

Duplication work and photomicrography . . .
Viewfinder/viewing & focusing ...
Depth-of-field preview lever .
Self-timer lever .
Multiple exposure lever .
Memo holder .
Infrared compensation index

Flash photography .....

Ready-ligh

IN

DETAIL

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of

exposure meter .....

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t.

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ACCESSORIES

5

16-35

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18-25

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. 23 Camera cases . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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26-27
28-30

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33-35

TIPS
TIPS

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SPECIFICATIONS

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31

IMPORTANT I .

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34-35

Interchangeable focusing screens ...
Close-up equipment.
Motor Drive
Nikon Speed lights
Data Back MF­Anti-Cold Battery Pack OB·2
Right-Angle Viewi
Eyepiece Magnifier DG-2
Rubber eyecup .

Eyepiece correction lemles .. .... ..

Cable Release AR-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Filters . .
Lens hoods

ON
ON

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MD-12 ...............

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16

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ng

Attachment DR-3 . .. . ..... .

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BATTERY USE ... .. . ......

CAMERA CARE . . . .... .. . .............

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36-44
36-

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46-47
48-49

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4

FOREWORD---------

Thank

you
to Nikon's world of photography. The Nikon
special features including top shutter speed
and flash synchronization speeds
FM2
and high-precision mechanically-controlled shutter curtains.
These features enable full manual operati
control-the
a wide range of purposes. Whenever
afield, you'
best results with your
manual handy until you'
a few minutes to ensure many years of rewardi

for your purchase of the Nikon

also incorporates a TTL full·aperture metering system

FM2

works without batteri

ll

always

be

ready for great shooting.
FM2, be sure to

ve

fully mastered its operation- just

as

FM2

FM2

of

fast

as

1/250 sec. The

on

and mechanical

es

at all speeds, for

you

are

, at home or far

keep

this instruction

ng

and welcome

offers many

1/4000 sec

To

obtain the

photography.

.,

5

BASIC

1

Remove

•

chamber

Use a coin to unscrew the lid
clockwise direction.

OPERATION------------

the

battery

lid

58

•

in

a counter-

2

Install

• Wipe the battery terminals clean
in

sert the batteries, making sure that

and

+ signs are up. Usable batteries are:

the

3V

lithium battery

•

• 1.55V silver-oxide batteries,
(2 units)

• 1.5V alkaline-manganese batteries,
(2 units)

Caution:

small children. In case
swallowed, call
material inside the batteries can cause serious
problems.

the

baUery.

(1

unit)

3.1V,
3V

Keep batteries away from infants and

a battery

is

a doctor immediately as the

accidentally

"

3 Put

Slip the battery clip back into the camera
body baseplate and screw
tightly into place.

Note: For more information on batteri

to page

,

• lid

45.

the

back

battery

in Its

chamber

place.

it

clockwise

es

, refer

6

4 Pull

shutter

The film
shutter release button lock.
lock the shutter release button
pulling out the film advance lever slightly
from the flush to the standoff position.

out

•

lever

(lI

the

to

release

advance lever doubles

film

advance

unlock

button

You

the

(g

can

by

•

as

un-

simply

5 Press

•

release

switch

a

on.

The

shutter release button activates the

exposure meter when lightly pressed.

meter itself stays

after

you

button.

the

shutter

button

the

exposure

on

have taken your finger off the

for approx.

lightly

meter

30

6

Check

to

The

sec.

• Switch the exposure meter
looking through the viewfinder. If one or
two of the
lamps inside lights
normal condition.

Note:

When
(bulb), none
light

up.

tion.

If none

up

, either

light
stal/ed-in
properly-or
in

which case

battery

red

LED

exposure indicator

up

the shutter speed dial ®

of

the exposure indicator lamps will

Be

sure

to

set the dial at another posi-

of

the exposure indicator lamps
the

battery

which case

battery power

you

you

should change the battery.

power.

on

while

this would mean

is

on B

is

improperly

should instal/ it

is

not sufficient,

in-

7

-BASIC

7.

Mount

• Place the lens onto the camera, lining
focusing index
on

the camera body.
counterclockwise until it clicks into place. Confirm that the
aperture/focusing index

To

remove:

mounting ring clockwise until the lens comes off.

Note:

When

not to expose the mirror box to direct sunlight.

OPERATION-continued----------

the

lens onto

@

on

the lens with the lens mounting index ®

Then

Pu

sh

changing lenses with film loaded

is

the lens release button @

the

camera.

twist the lens mounting

right

on

top.

and

in

the camera, be careful

up

the aperture/

turn the lens

ring

~

8 Open

•
counterclockwise with your index finger
while lifting the film rewind knob @.
camera back will pop

Caution: Never touch the shutter curtains.

the

Push

camera

the camera back lock lever ®

open.

back

60

The

•

8

9

Install

• Position the film cartridge
film cartridge chamber
leader pointing towards the takeup spool

@,

and push the rewind knob back down

to secure it

Note:

You
tridges available on
to

handle film

posure to sunlight.

the

in

place.

can use any

the

in

the

shade

film

cartridge.

@ with the film

of

the 3Smm film car-

market. It is advisable

to

in

avoid direct ex-

the

10

Pull
into one of the slots
spool. Slowly rotate the takeup spool
inwards wi
latch
ond perforation along the side of the film
leader.

Insert

• In

the leader across gently and insert it

in

the slot engages the first or sec-

the

film

the

takeup

th

your thumb, making sure the

leader

spool.

in

-the film takeup

Wind

the

film

11

•

lever

onto

the

Wind the film advance lever and depress
the shutter release button until the film
sprockets ® engage the perforations
the edges of the film. Make sure
the lever fully until it comes to a stop.

to

takeup

advance

advance

spool.

film

you

on

wind

9

-BASIC

12

•

Close the camera back until it snaps shut,
making sure that the perforations are
perfectly meshed with the sprockets and
that the film
rails

@.

OPERATION-continued----------

Close
back.

the

camera

is

set between the film guide

13

@ and rotate it

arrow
stops. Then fold the crank back in.

Take

up

• Fold out the fi
on

the film rewind knob until

film

lm

in

the direction of the

slack.

rewind crank

Make

blank

14

• until

counter

it

Press

the shutter release button and wind

the

film advance lever until the frame
counter reaches frame 1.
lever, confirm that the film rewind knob
rotates counterclockwise. This indicates
the film
advanced correctly. If the knob fails
rotate, reload the film cartridge.

the

53

reaches

has

been loaded and

exposures

frame

frame

As

you

1.

wind the

is

being

to

10

15

Lift the ASA/ISO film speed ring
rotate it
ASAIISO film speed indicator ®
site the ASAIISO film speed indication
use. Unless the film speed
you cannot obtain correct exposure. For
film speeds not indicated
film speed dial

Set

the

ASAIISO

•

speed.

in

either direction until the

®, refer to page

film

CD

is

is

set correctly,

in

the ASAIISO

18

.

and

red

oppo-

16

Basic holding posture: Use your left hand
to cradle the camera, with your fingers
wrapped around the lens and the elbow
propped against your body for support, as

in

you look through the viewfinder. Use your

right hand's index finger 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.
basic posture to both horizontal and ver­tical format shooting.
steady, it
something strong and stable
Also, you can look through the viewfinder
with the right or left eye, with the other
eye closed or open.

Hold

• point

is

advisable to lean

the

It

at

camera

You

To

the

subject.

can adapt this

hold the camera

on

(e.g.,

and

or against

a wall).

11

-BASIC

OPERATION-continued----------

1l

12mm-diameter circle) of the field of view inside the viewfinder.
Then
until the
lights

12

Set

the

• First, position your main subject at the center (i.e

correct

turn the shutter speed dial ® and/or lens aperture ring @

LED

up.

lamp for the symbol for correct exposure 0

exposure.

.,

the

Important! Intermediate settings

speed are usable.

Nota:

The

a distinct bias on the central 12mm-diameter area.

meter reads the light over the entire focusing screen but has

of

lens aperture but not

of

shutter

18

focusing

The FM2
cusing screen as standard. Look through
the viewfinder while turning the focusing

ring until the two halves of the split image

rangefinder coincide perfectly to form a
single unbroken image and the image
the microprism grid appears sharp. Cor-

rect focus will then

Focus

•

by

rotating

ring

is

provided with the

on

46

be

secured.

the

the

•

subject

lens

Type

K2

fo-

in

13

-BASIC

OPERATION-continued-----------

19

Look
the shutter release button.
the shutter release button, apply light but
steady pressure with the ball of your
index finger to avoid camera shake that

might result

14

Depress

•

release

through the viewfinder, and depress

in

the

button.

image blur.

shutter

In

depressing

20

far
next frame and ready the camera for the
ne

sure in winding the lever.

the lever when the film is at
should then rewi

Advance

• Wi

as

xt shot.

nd

it

will go to transport the film to the

Do

the

the

film advance lever

not apply excessive pres-

nd

the film.

film.

You

an

cannot wind

end-you

21 Press

•

as

After the last exposure
turn the camera upside down and press
the
posed film can
cartridge.
button all the

button

film rewind button, so that the ex-

the

film

'

43

•

has

be

You

rewound back into its

don't have to depress the

way.

rewind

been made,

22

turn it

end

resistance. Continue winding one or two

more turns until

this will indicate that

now fully rewound into the cartridge.

Rewind

• Lift

the

in

the direction of

of film rewind,

the

the

film.

film rewind crank

the

arrow. At

you

will

feel

a slight

crank feels lighter;

the

film leader

and

the

23

Push
direction of
rewind crank
Take

is

ing

Remove

cartridge.

•

the camera back lock lever

the

out the film cartridge.

film

in

direct sunlight.

arrow

to

open

the

film

as

you

the

camera back.

Avoid

in

the

lift the film

unload-

24

Close

advance lever into place.
not
film advance lever
locks
keeps
side
the
pressed.

Note:

it will automatically be switched off in approx.
30 sec., and the exposure measuring circuit

will simultaneously be

Put

the

•

lever

the

camera back

using the camera,

the

the

exposure indicator lamps

the

viewfinder switched off

shutter release button

Even

if

film

back

and

you

to

shutter release button

the exposure indicator lamp

this position which

cut

off

advance

into

place.

push

the

When

should set

even

is

accidentally

.

film

you're

the

and

in-

is

lit

if

,

15

CONTROLS IN DETAIL

-----------

Film

advance

The

film advance lever also functions

release button.

is

pulled out to the standoff position.

lever
wind the lever to the right
matically returns to the standoff position the moment
your thumb off
vances the film by a single frame and simultaneously cocks
the shutter.

16

lever

The

shutter release button

it.

A single, completed stroke of the lever

®

as

a lock for the shutter

is

unlocked when the

To

all

the way until it stops. It auto-

advance the film,

you

take

ad-

Frame

The
up
dots
camera , the frame counter
frame every time the film advance lever
frame
ate even if
wind the film advance lever; film will
until the actual

reset to S when the camera back

counter

additive type frame counter

to

36

in

even numbers with odd numbers indicated by white

in

between the even numbers.

36

of a 36-exposure roll of film, the counter will not oper-

you

®l

is

graduated from S· ·1

Even

is

operative, advancing by a single

repeatedly press the shutter release button and
end

of the film roll. T

he

is

opened.

be

counter

24-

if there 's

no

film

in

is

fully wound. After

advanced, however,

is

automatically

the

Shutter

The shutter release button also serves to activate the FM2's
built-in exposure meter. When the film advance lever
flush position, the shutter release button
operate.
the film advance lever to the standoff position. Slight pressure
on

the shutter release button will then switch
posure meter and the
the viewfinder.
30

sec. after the finger
they are automatically switched off to conserve battery power.
Pressing the shutter release button all the way down releases
the shutter. When
guard ® with the tip of your index finger and depress it lightly
with smooth, even pressure. This makes shutter release oper­ation smooth and stable. With a shutter speed of

re.e

•• e button

To

release the button from its locked position, pull out

LED

The

meter and the display remain

is

removed from the button, after which

you

depress the button, touch the finger-

®

is

locked and will not

on

exposure information display inside

both the

on

for approx.

1/30 sec. or

is

in

the

ex-

slower, it
a cable release to release the shutter; this will prevent camera
shake which results
nector can
release button. If the tripod
the
lens aperture ring.
supplied with the camera between the tripod head and the
camera body.

is

advisable to attach the camera to a tripod and use

in

be

screwed into the hole at the center of the shutter

lens barrel and the head may make it impossible

blurred photographs. The cable con-

has

a large head, contact between

In

this case, use ,

he

special tripod adapter

to

turn the

17

-CONTROLS IN

DETAIL-continued--------

. -

, '.

"

- • • I

.:.-:: .

•

-

ASAIISO

The ASAIISO scale on the dial has numbered settings for
speeds from ASAIISO
AS

AIISO numbers stand for intermediate settings, such

80

, etc. The illustration above gives the speeds for all inter­mediate settings. ASAIISO
they are used quite often.

ASAIISO
amount of light. The higher the number, the greater the sensi-

tivity, and vice versa. The ASAIISO of your film is indicated
the cartridge itself. It

the data sheet packed inside.

18

film

speed

12

is

a numerical rating of the film's sensitivity to a given

is

dial

®

to 6400. The dots between each pair of

100

and 400 are indicated

also printed

on

the film carton and

in

as 64,
red

as

on
on

Shutter

speed dial ®

'exposure

determination

Setting

To

or left until the desired shutter speed number click-stops and
aligned with the shutter speed index ® . The dial has indications
for B (bulb) and for shutter speeds from 1 to 1/4000 sec. The 250
engraved in
flash unit.
as
ing one second, 2 for 1/2 sec
the two adjoining numbers, excluding B
much
shutter speeds between printed numbers (i.e
speeds) cannot
shutter speed number inside the viewfinder,
see the shutter speed dial

the

set the shutter speed, turn the shutter speed dial

shutter

red

On

the shutter release button

as

the exposure amount of the other number. Note that

speed

indicates the fastest sync speed for

B, the shutter curtains @ remain op

be

used. Since you can always confirm the

is

kept depressed. 1

.,

60

for 1/60 sec. and

as

you turn it.

is

two times or 1/2 as

you

en

.,

don't have to

to

the right

an

electronic

for as long

is

for indicat-

so on. One of

intermediate

is

Fast shutter speed

SlOw

snutter speed

19

- CONTROLS IN DETAIL-continued

---------

Setting the aperture

The lens aperture determines the amount of light reaching the
film plane. Generally, when
graduation
reduced by 1/2. (This
means.)
graduation
light
stop.) The lens aperture ring clicks at the position of the numbers

engraved although intermediate lens apertures are usable con-

tinuously. Lens aperture greatly affects depth of field (see page

28)

20

in

the direction of the larger numbers, the amount

On

the other hand, when the aperture ring

in

is

. With the exception of a few special lenses, Nikkor and

the direction of smaller numbers, the amount of

doubled. (This

you

turn the aperture ring one

is

what stopping down

is

known

as

opening the aperture

by

one graduation

is

turned one

by

Nikon Series E lenses enable full-aperture light measurement
even when the aperture ring
said to have

is

aperture only at the instant the shutter release button
depressed.

1

an

automatic diaphragm, stop down to the set

is

moved. These lenses, which are

is

Exposure

The amount of light reaching the film plane

determination

is

determined by a
combination of the shutter speed and the lens aperture. A
shutter speed of
ting of 1/1000 sec
aperture setting of

as

much
picture-taking situation

111000

at

1/500 sec. lets

.,

and only half as much light as 1/250 sec.

1111

118.
118

will give the same exposure. It

lets

Thus, if the correct exposure for a particular

in

twice as much light as a set-

in

twice as much light as

is

1/500 at

1111,

1116,

then 1/250 at

is

very convenient

half as

1116

An

or

to know this interrelation when considering depth of field. The
following table illustrates the interrelation between shutter
speed and aperture.

1/4000

112000

1/1000 1/500 1/250

4 5.6 8

11

16

Exposure

The

display

LED

exposure indicator lamps can

be

seen

on

the right side
of the viewfield frame within the viewfinder. The shutter speed
number and IInumber
display indicates exposure five ways, as shown
below,

in

accordance with the conditions of each exposure.

in

use are also visible. The

LED

in

exposure
the table

Overexposure by more than 1 stop

1/5

Overexposure by

to 1 stop

Correct exposure

Underexposure by

1/5

to

1 stop

Underexposure by more than 1 stop

is

As correct exposure

inside the viewfinder

approached, the

is

liable to change rapidly and easily within

the very narrow range, so it

is

important to turn the lens aper-

LED

exposure display

ture ring and shutter speed dial carefully. Although intermediate
shutter speeds cannot
can-just

Note: When the shutter speed dial
display inside the viewfinder is turned off.

turn the aperture ring for fine adjustment.

be

used, intermediate lens apertures

is

set at B (bulb), the

LEO

exposure

21

IN

DETAIL-contlnued--------

--,

Metering range of exposure meter

When there
speed,
light
suitable for correct exposure. Also, if the combination of aper­ture and shutter speed
subject, the exposure meter will not give
rect exposure even if
a very narrow range.
binations of aperture and shutter speed. If
an

indication for correct exposure, then subject brightness

is

a proper combination of lens aperture and shutter

0 lights

up,

up

when the aperture and shutter speed combination

indicating correct exposure. This sign will not

is

improper for the brightness of the

you

vary the neighboring settings within

You

should try altogether different com-

an

indication for cor-

you

still fail to obtain

is

not

probably beyond the metering range of the exposure meter. It

is

necessary to illuminate the subject or to

density) filter

measurement, the range of brightness that can

by the meter varies with the maximum flnumber of the lens

in

use, as
With a 50mm
and

ASAIISO

With a 135mm f/2.

is

and ASAIISO

to

adjust brightness. Note that

follows:

f/1

.4

lens (1

100
100

film, the

8lens (1

film, the

sec. at f/1.4 and 1/4000 sec. at fiB)

EV

range is from

sec .. at f/2.B

EV

range

use

EV

and

1/4000 sec. at f/16)

is

from

EV3

an

NO

in

full-aperture

be

1 to

EV 1B.

to

EV20

(neutral

measured

22

Stop-down

This exposure measurement method
phragm

on the camera body, such as when a non-AI lens or

sion ring

1)

Set the

2)

Compose your picture and·secure subject focus.

3)

Press the shutter release button lightly to turn the meter on.

4) Perform exposure measurement, depending
lens used:

• Lens with automatic diaphragm

Determine the correct exposure while pressi
of-field preview lever
and depress the

exposure

on

the lens does not link with the meter coupling lever

is

mounted

ASA/ISO

measurement

is

on

the camera. The procedure

number.

used when the dia-

is

as follows:

on

the type of

ng

the depth-

® , then take your finger off the lever

sh

utter release button.

an

exten-

ia

• Lens without automatic d
First, determine the correct exposure
shutter speed and aperture. Then, focus at full aperture.

Shift the lens so that you get the desired composition.

turn the aperture setting to the preset position and shoot.

• Lens with fixed aperture (Reflex-Nikkor lens)
Exposure cannot

in

cause

the correct exposure
correct exposure is unobtainable, use

sity) filter or change the illumination

be

this type of lens, the aperture

phragm (PC-Nikkor lens)

changed according

by

turning the shutter speed dial. If

by

adjusting the

to

the aperture be-

is

fixed. Determine

an

ND

to

(neutral den-

adjust the exposure.

Re-

23

IN

DETAIL-continued-----

Exposure measurement in special cases

The exposure
weighted exposure measurement system in which approxi­mately 60
12 mm·diameter circle at the center of the focusing screen.
When the background of the main subject is too bright and the
main subject is not centered within the frame , the result is
underexposure (see Fig.
and the main subject is too bright with the same framing as
above, the result is overexposure.
To

compensate-

1)

Focus on the main subject with the composition you have
in

mind.

2) Move the camera to center the main subject in the viewfinder
(see Fig. 2) and perform exposure measurement.

3) Move the camera back to the position described
exposure setting described in 2) and depress the shutter
release button.

This way, you will be able to obtain

meter

of the Nikon FM2 adopts the center-

% of the total amount of light is measured by the

1)

. When the background is too dark

in

1) with the

correct

exposure.

Fig. 1

----

o

Underexposure

I---

I I

~

~

--------------I

..... --,

+ I

____

J

I
I

I

I

I

Ie

I
I
I

I

24

Fig. 2

Correct exposure

Duplication work and photomicrography

In

copy work, slide duplication,
cannot obtain correct exposu
exposure meter display because these types of photography
represent unusual contrast
is

required. Shown here
specific photo types a
to

be

a guide,

in

by experimentation until

Copy

work

Sl

ide

duplication

Photo­mi

crography

+ "

more

practice you should make further. compensation

Photographs
pictures
cont

Documents
dr

awings

contras

Gene

.tinuous

Film
and

photographed

Prepared

exposure;

is

nd

proper exposure. Since this

you

Subject

and

with

inuous gradation

and

of

high

t

ral

film

with

con-

gradation

of

documents Stop

drawings

specimen

-,'

less

exposure

and

re

si

tuation

the

table of the relationship between

achievelthe proper result

photomicrography,

by simply referring to the

s.

Exposure compensation

s.

Method

of

exposure

measurement

Full-aperture
stop-down

-down

Stop-down

or

compensatio

Compensa
necessary

Approx

. + 1

stops

for

on

white
approx.
stop

for white

on

bla

ck

Approx.
A

ppro

x.

+

2-1/2

letters

on

o

to

approx.

w

hite lette

background

Approx.

you

FM2

is

meant

Exposu

re

tion

not

to

+2
black letters
background

-112

to

-1

letter
background

+ 1

to

+2

+1-112

to

sto

ps

for

white

background

-1

/2

rs

on

black

+ 1 st

op

•

The

's

n

s

stops

black
stop

exposure compensation values list
data obtained when general-purpose film was used. With color
rever

sal

film or microfilm for duplication work, it
take additional shots with ± one-stop exposu
as

the

se

•

To
illumination

•

It

;

.

for

films have very

avoid vibration,

is

Required

Micro-Nikkor or
Micro-Nikkor

Cable

Micro-Nikkor
Micro-Nikkor

Nikon

Adapter

Nikon

ing

Cable

Microflex

on

advisable to u

accessories

lens'

rel

ease

or
lens'

Slide

Copying

PS-

6

Bellows

Focus-

Attachment

release

PFX

and off.

AF

AF

PB-6

sma

ll

you

se

a cable release to avoid camera vibration .

For
reflectance
is recommended.
compensa

the background

When using
set the

Generally,
exposure
sa
the

exposure latitude.

can make the exposure

high-contrast

gray

tion

Nikon Slide

flood

lamp

results

in

photomicrography. The

tion valu

e on the

compensation

ed

Remark

subjects, use

card

in

determining

With the card, no

is

required

regardless

is

bla

ck

or whit

Copying

30cm

away

come

out

left

is only a

value

by

test sho

'Set

the

below are reference

re

s

of

an 1

e.

Adapter PS-6,

from

better with

guide; determine

len

s'

is

advisable

compensation

by

turning the

8%

exposure

exposure

of

whethe

r

its

opal

plate

.

more

compen-

oting.
A-M

ring

to

"M."

to

25

DETAIL-continued---------

Inside the viewfinder:

1. Fine mattel Fres

2.

Mi

croprism collar

3.

Split-image rangefinder spot

4. 12mm-diameter reference circle

2 3 4

V.

lewflnder/vlewlng & focusing

The

conventional way of securing correct focus

lens focusing ring until the image

The

sharp.

K2 focusing screen that comes with the camera
standard equipment has three focus
with the split imag

e,

turn the ri

in

the viewfinder appears

ing

ng

until the image
halves becomes whole. With the microprism grid, turn the
until the shimmering image appears sharp. With the matte outer
field, turn the ring until the image appears sharp.
rangefinder works well for subjects with definite lines, contours
and

boundarie

s.

The

microprism collar

is
moving subjects or those with indistinct lines,
outer field
ma

is

suitable for close-ups or when us

ximum aperture smaller than f/4.5.

is

to turn the

as

aids. When focusing

in

the two

ring

The

split-image

for focus

ing

while

the matte

ing lenses

on

with a

fast-

nel

outer field

There's another way of securing correct focus. Using the dis­tance scale
with the measured distance.
between the subject and the film plane indicator

Note: The FM2 viewfinder covers approx.
actual photograph
in

the viewfinder. Not e that the picture comes out trimmed down

case

With

to "M

@

on

the lens, set the focusing

Be

so

the actual picture comes out larger

of

mounted slides or service-size

AF

Nikkor lenses: Set the lens' A-M r

."

ring

in

accordance

sure to gauge the distance

-e-@

93

%

of

prints from negatives.

.

the image area

tha

n the image

ing

or A-M switch

of
in

the
the

26

Split· image

focusing

Microprism grid
focusing

Matte outer
field focusing

Out of focus

In

focus

27

IN

DETAIL-continued---------

Depth-of-fleld

What depth

When

you
find that not only
certain distance range both

sharp. Objects increasingly out of this range become

creasingly out of focus.

of

field

said to
The
focusing distance:

1)

2)

3)

focus

field." When this zone

is

said to

be

shallow.

following can

The

smaller the taking aperture (i.e., the higher the flstop

number), the deeper the depth of field ,
aperture, the shallower the depth of field.
The

farther away the subject

depth of field becomes ; the closer to the lens, the shallower

the depth of field.
There

's

greater depth of field behind the main subject than

in

front of

it.

preview

of

field

is

on

your subject at a certain aperture,

is

the subject itself

Thi

s "in-focus zone"

be

of

deep; when it

be

said

lever

in

in

front of

sharpness

is

small, the depth of field

of

depth of field, given the same

is

from the lens, the deeper the

®

focus but objects

and

behind it appear

is

known

is

large, the depth of

and

you

as

"depth

the larger the

will

Note, too, that
but

of

in

a

in

-

is

the same maximum flnumber, the shorter the focal length

of

the lens, the larger the depth of field, and vice versa.
depth of field
coded lines having the same color
and

which correspond to the distance sca
ring. The
Shown
field with a 50mm
tings

at
enables selective blurring
picture either to let the major subject stand out or for overall
sharpness, so that
sharp.
it

different from other pictures.
Getting the subject
When

in

the case of lenses with different focal lengths

at

the taking aperture

range

is

in

a set focusing distance

This

you

indicated

the photo

will give your picture its

take pictures,

is

an

example of the difference

f/1.4 lens when using different aperture set·

all

elements

in

focus

be

is

indicated

as

that of the aperture set

by

the distance between the lines.

of 2 m.

of

the background elements

in

the entire picture field appear

own

is

only

sure to consider depth

le

Control of depth of field

character,

one

aspect of photography.

by

the color·

on

the focusing

in

thu

s making

of

field, too.

The

depth of

of

a

28

Lens set

Only major subject

at

1/1.4

is

in

focus.

Most objects near to far are

Lens set

at

1/16

in

focus.

29

-CONTROLS IN

DETAIL-continued---------

Depth-of-field

When a lens with
in

the viewfinder

lens wide open. However, pressing the depth-of-field preview
lever will cause the lens
to enable
image

in
f/number-the
number), the "darker" the image. Components of the picture
that appear

zone of sharp focus.

Note:

Be sure

the

lever

when

preview

is

you

to examine depth of field before shooting_

the viewfinder "darkens" according to the selected

smaller the aperture (i.e

in

focus when the lever

to

pre

you

depre

lever

an

automatic diaphragm

viewed with the aperture diaphragm of the

ss

the

depth-of-field preview lever

ss

the

®

is

used, the image

to

be stopped down to the fin umber set

.,

the

larger the fl

is

shutter

relea

pressed will

se button.

be

fully. Also, release

in

The

the

30

Self·tlmer

This device
yourself with other people.
as

far

as
photo. This can
vanced. After the self-timer
release button. Reflex mirror
start to operate; the shutter
10

sec. If

has

been set, move it back to its original position with your

finger.

You
However, turning the self-timer lever when
operation will result
the lever
self-timer can

lever

is

useful

it

will go

you want

can then take the picture the standard way

is

back

be

®

in

self-portraits or when taking a picture of

Set

the

in

the direction of the arrow shown

be

done either before or after the film

to cancel self-timer operation after the lever

in

the shutter's being released the moment

in

its original position. Except for B (bulb), the

used at any shutter speed.

self-timer

has

been set, press the shutter

@ will go

is

released after a delay of approx.

by

turning the lever

up

and the self-timer will

it

is

in

is ad-

as

before.

already

the

in

Multiple

Taking a picture of different subjects or two or more of the same
subject
multiple exposure, observe the following :

1)

Take

2)

Pull
shown
The frame counter will not advance; only the shutter
to be released again. Although the finger pulling the multiple
exposure lever will automatically slip off the lever as the film
advance lever
have been performed correctly.

3)

After winding the film advance lever fully, take the second
shot.

To

take three exposures or more

procedures described

No

te: In multiple exposure photography, the FM2

film dislocation to the minimum. But it may occur due to film curling, film

slack

exposure

on

the same frame means multiple exposure.

the first shot. (Press the shutter release button.)

the multiple exposure lever

in

the photo, as you wind the film advance lever fully.

is

or

inappropriate film winding.

lever

wound, multiple exposure operation will

in

2)

and 3).

5

in

the direction of the arrow

on

the same frame , repeat the

is

designed to reduce

To

make a

is

ready

~

'--"

"tt

-~-~---~--

-

-----

31

---

---

---

Memo

To

the roll of film
insert it into the memo holder. Of course, you can use the memo
holder to store anything, including your name card.

holder

remind yourself of the film type and number of exposures

4

in

use, clip off the end of the film package and

on

32

Infrared

When
focus
graphy.
in

focus
form of either a dot or a line) near
barrel.
compensation.)
After focus
the focused distance and turn the focusing ring to the left until
the red infrared compensation index lines
distance.
R60

, etc

at

00.)

compensation

you

shoot infrared film, note that the plane of sharpest

is

slightly farther away than that in visible-light photo-

As

a rule of thumb,

by

referring to the infrared compensation index

(Some

lenses, including the Reflex Nikkor,

ing

the image sharply through the viewfinder, check

Be

sure to shoot with appropriate filter, such

.,

(In this photo, the subject-to-camera distance

.

index

you

can compensate for this shift

the

focus

®

ing index

do

up

with the prefocused

on

not

the

(in

as

is

the

lens

need

the
set

Flash photography

A Nikon electronic flash unit will prove very convenient for
indoor or nighttime shooting or for use
plementary lighting. The FM2's built-in hot-shoe contact

enables direct mounting of the Nikon S8-27, S8-26, S8-25,
S8-24, S8-22, S8-20, S8-19 or
no special connecting cords. When shooting with a
you

should determine the aperture setting that corresponds to

the shooting distance after checking the guide number of the

ash

electronic fl
requires the

unit or flashbulb

use

of a connecting cord, insert the cord into the

camera body's sync cord terminal

shoe contact becomes active only when
is

mounted, touching it accidentally
The use of flash units not provided with a hot-shoe contact'
not recommended because accidental firing

due to short circuiting at the contact. When using such flash

seal

units,

the hot-shoe contact on the camera body with

tape or something appropriate to insulate

in

the daytime

S8-168

Speedlight, requiring

flash

in

use.

Also,

if

the speed light

@. Since the FM2's hot-

an

electronic flash unit

is

harmless.

is

likely to occur

it.

as

sup-

@

unit,

vinyl

T

he

FM2, provided only with

an

X-contact for synchronization,

synchronizes with the speedlight when the shutter speed set

1/250 sec. or slower.

'Old type

flash

units with metallic leaf spring on mounting portion.

Synchronization

Shutte

r s

peed

11

(sec

SpeedUghl

M.

FPandMF

Fl

ashbu

[=:::J
[=:::J

is

Note:

electronic flash unit with long flash duration, the Medical-Nikkor 120mm fl4
IP',

speed down to 11125 sec.
1130
'Not available

4000

I

lbs

Synchronized
Cannot be used

When

using a special electronic

or

the Nikon Repeating Rash Unit 58-6 at

sec.

or

slower.

in

112

EU

countries.

Range

11500

000

'/1000

or

slower. With flashbulbs, set shutter speed at

1/250

11'25

flash

unit with provision for time lag, an

112

or

full output, adjust shutter

' /

60

1/30- 1

is

B

33

IN

DETAIL-continued--

l

Ready-light ®

When the 8B-28, 8B-27, 8B-26, 8B-25, 8B-24, 8B-22, 8B-20,
8B-19
ready-light tells you when the speed light
to fire or when the shutter speed
without your having to remove your eye from the viewfinder.
Before you shoot, make sure the ready-light
the shutter
light will go out.
If

the shutter speed
the ready-light will blink when the speedlight
warn you that the shutter speed
For ready-light availability with
8B-28, 8B-27, 8B-26, 8B-25 , 8B-24, 8B-22, 8B-20 , 8B-19 and
8B-16B, refer

-

------

I

II

11

1111111

' I I

or 8B-16B is

is

released, the speedlight will fire and the ready-

to

page 35.

III

attached

is

set between 1/500 sec. and 1/4000 sec

to the FM2, the built-in LED

is

recycled and ready

is

set outside sync range,

is

on. The moment

is

is

outside sync range.

speedlights

fully charged ,

.,

to

other than the

Picture taken by balancing the flash exposure with daylight.

34

Ready-Light

Shutler

1/4000 sec. - 1/500

11250

Notes:

1)

No

matter how the shutter speed dial

when the ready-light

depressed.

The

ready-light will function regardless

2)
pcsure meter is

3)

When
i

ns

ide the viewfinder shows the expcsure conditi

regardless

at B, the

Caution: For

dedicated electronic

of

any other

Use
camera
the Nik

on

Status

Per

Shutter

speed dial

setting complete incomplete

I Speedlight charging I Speedlight charging

sec.

sec.

- 1 sec. Lights up continuously Off

B

the camera 's expcsure meter

of

LED

exposure display will not be activated.

fla

's

circuitry. Any damage caused by such use

Warrant

Ligh

ts up continuously

is

on

the moment the shutter release button

on

or off.

whether

or

not the flash fires. If the shutter speed

sh photography, it is recommended that you use a Nlkon

fla

sh unit which operates at a low voltage current.

fla

sh which operates at high voltages may damage the

y.

Speed

Bli

nks

is

set, the speedlight will fire

of

whether the camera's ex-

is

on, the

Dial

Setting

O

Off

LED

expcsure display

on

of

is

not covered by

ff

the moment

is

set

Combination

88-21A'
88

-21

S

B-2

41SB-2WB-2&SB-28 D

88

-20/S8-221S8-27

88

-19
S8-17
S8

-16A

is

S8

-16

88

-11

S8

-1O

S8-6

R

inglight

M

acro

SM-2

M

edical-Nikk

120mm

-

Not

..

With S8-140,
Flash

.. ,

to
the

Speedloght

8' D

8

1S8-14/S8-140

Unil 8R-2

Ringlight

Uni

t

or'

f14

1F

available

in

EU

usable

output

is

determined

the

diaphragm, so

correct

exposure.

Chart

Via

AS-6
irect
irecl

D

irect

Direct

Vi

a A

Via

AS-6

Direct
Via SC­Via

SC-13

Via

SC-23

D

irect

Via

SC-6 sync

Via

AS-2

extension
Via

sync

Via

sync

Via

2-pln

(provided)
V

ia

3-pln

(provided)

countries

only

as

of

Connection

couple

S-6

coupler
coupler

11

sync
sensor

ill

coupler with

cord

cord
co

rd

sync

sync

.

for

visible-light

by

the

the

lens

Nlkon

cord

cord

r

emote

cord

(provided)
(provided)

cord

cord

lens'

ASA/ISO

Is

focused,

FM2

cord

SC-9

SC-20

8C-22

flash

the

and

Camer

a's

ready-light

operate

Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes

No
Yes
Yes Manual
Yes Aut

No Manual
No
No
No

No

Yes

photography

ring

setting. The

aperture

Is

Nlkon

Speed

Us

able flash

I

s

Manual
Manual
Auto,

manual,

Auto,

manual
Auto
Auto, manual,
Auto,

manual,
Auto,

manual,
Auto

" ,

Auto",

o,

manual

Auto, man
Manual
Manual

.

focusing

simultaneously

mod

es

manual
manual

ual

..

.

ring

set

lights

repealing

MD
MO
MD

is

coupled

to

provide

35

ACCESSORIES---------------------------

Interchangeable

Three different types of focusing screens are usable with the

Nikon FM2. The
standard accessory.

(matte/Fresnel with focusing spot) and

with focusing spot and etched grid lines) are also available for
the FM2

Type

to

match your particular requirements.

focusing

K2

screen comes with the camera

Two

optional focusing screens,

screens

Type

E2

as

Type

(matte/Fresnel

B2

36

To

change focusing

1. Remove the lens from the camera body.

2. Slip the small tip of the special tweezers (that come with the

a

optional screens) under the focusing screen release latch
at the top front of the mirror box casting and pull outward
spring open the holder.

3.

Take

the screen out by grasping the small tab with the tweez-

ers.

4. Carefully position another screen
facing down and the side with the tab facing up.

5.

Then push the front edge of the holder upward with the tweez-

ers until

it

Note:

surface, do not handle the screen with your fingers.

clicks into position.

To

avoid getting smudges or fingerprints

screens,

follow

this

procedure:

in

place with the flat side

on

the screen

's

®

to

optical

Focusing

Screen

Selector

Qulde

Type I Name/style I Features

Suitable lor general photography.
Has microprism collar around the

Split-image range-

finder/microprism

system

Matte system

Horizontal and

vertical line

etched system

central split-image rangefinder spot.
With PC-Nikkor or lenses having a

maximum
the

split-image

prism

on the surrounding matte area .

Works well for general photography,
close-up photography and duplication
work. Especially useful for people
who prefer to focus on the matte

locusing spot

screen, or

use the split-image rangefinder for

focusing, as

lenses.

Extremely useful
sition. Consists of
with etched horizontal and vertical
lines. Also useful with PC-Nikkor
lenses.

collar

aperature

range

is

dim. In

at

the center of the

when

it

is

the

in

Type

slower

than

finder

or

micro-

this

case, focus

is

inconvenient

case

with

telephoto

pictorial compo-

B2

matte field

f/4.5,

to

Caution

the Type

: T

Type

clear-matte screen

KlBlE screen,

K2

ype

K2IB2IE2 focusing screens

you

must

have

make

a notched

exposure compensation.

Type

screen

K

tab.

If

you

use

37

I

ES-continued------------

Close-up

The

following are some of

close-up photography.

1)

Close-Up
NO.6T
Since these lenses are attached
use,

2)

Auto

3)

Bellows Focusing Attachment PB-6
The
the lens
AI

lens,
the exposure meter
the
is

necessary because the exposure meter
the automatic diaphragm
fications continuously
Note, too, that it
the PB-6

4)

Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/2.8, Micro-Nikkor 105mm fl2.8, Micro­Nikkor 200mm
Nikkor 105mm
IF

lenses.
tography offer continuous focusing from infinity down
(Micro-Nikkor
The
ft.)

, 0.23m (0.75

0.314m (1.03

Note

that
Thus, you
with

very

field

for

focus

with

38

equipment

the

accessories

Lenses

No.

0, No.

.

metering can still

Extension

Auto Extension

lens. As

closest focused distance of the

in
should

little

focusing (or

the

Rings

and
exposure determination

all

These

close-up

depth. Also, it

split-Image

Rings

camera

for the

PB-6

is

possible

at

the

same time.

fl4,

AF

f/2.8 0 and

specially designed

lenses)

ft.),

ft.)

and

photography, the

stop

down

to

change

or

1, No.

be

done

PK-llA,

body.

is

or 1/1

0.5m (1.64

as

microprism

at

12

and

and

the

If

one

linked

to

the automatic diaphragm

, stop-down exposure measurement

of

the

extending

to

use

AF

Micro-Nikkor

lifesize

depth

as

possible
advisable
focusing

ring.

lens.

to

screens)

by

Micro-Nikkor 60mm f/2.8 0,

0.41m (1.34 ft.),

much

is

you

2, No.

3T, No.

to

the

front

full aperture.

13.

.

PB-6

of

the

is

at

You

the

a close-up

lenses

(AF

lenses

ft.), respectively.

of

use

of

are attached between

rings

is

full aperture because

is

not

can

change magni-

bellows.

lens,

ED

200mm f/4 0

for close-up pho-

Micro-Nikkor

are

0.219m (0.719

field

is

generally

in

photographing a subject

the

Type

K2's

because

can

4T, No.
the

used

linked with

AF

0.25m

matte

it

is

no

use

lens

with

ring

and

Micro-

to

1/2

lenses).

(0.82

ft.),

shallow.

outer

easy

Note: Non-AI extension rings such

attached to the FM2.

for
5T,

in

an

of

Auto Extension Rings

Close-Up

to

lenses

as

the PK-I, 2,

3,

PN

-I , etc. cannot be

Motor

The

automatic film advance when the unit's trigger button
In
maximum rate of 3.2 frames per second
the shutter speed set
motor drive unit proves very convenient when shooting fast­moving subjects since the photographer does not have to wind
film manually or take his eye off the viewfinder.
The
and tightening its built­base of the camera
trigger activates the FM2's exposure meter.

Drive

use of the

addition to single-frame shooting, continuous firing at the

MO-12

MD·12

MO-12

motor drive unit with the FM2 enables

is

is

between 1/125 and 1/4000 sec.).

can

be

mounted onto the FM2 by simply inserting

in

screw into the tripod socket @ at the

body.

Note that lightly pressing the

possible (i.e

is

pressed.

.,

MO-12

when

The

's

39

Nikon

Nikon speed lights are convenient for shooting
taking backlit portraits, as
Various models are available-from speed lights for beginners
those for professionals. The Nikon 88-28 , 88-27, 88-26, 88-25,
88-24, 88-22, 88-20, 88-19
directly
speed lights also activate the camera's
viewfinder which lights up when the flash unit
and ready to fire, and blinks when the shutter speed set
outside the synchronization
your eye from the viewfinder (see page 34.)

Speed

mounted

lights

in

well

as for synchro-sunlight shooting.

, or

onto the FM2's built-in hot shoe . These

88-168

range-all

LED

without having

dim light or

Speed light can be

ready-light inside the

is

fully recycled

to

remove

to

is

8B·16B

40

Data

Back

To

keep track of when photos were taken, the FM2 accepts the

im

, lightweight Data Back MF-t6. This back attaches

sl

FM

of the
Three imprinti
hour/minute, or picture counti
di

splayed

by

LED

's,

as a handy clock, a quartz timer with alarm

Note:

The

cord provided wi

12

to the sync termi

MF-

MF·16

2's regular camera back with

ng

modes are provided : year/month/day, day/

ng (up

on the

data back

on the photo

Nikon FM2 a/so

th

the data back to connect the socket contact of the

accept

na/of

in

clear L

in

unobtrusive

s Data B

the camera.

no

sync cord requi

to 2000); each mode is

CD

numerals and printed

red

is

incorporated.

ack

MF-12. In this case, use the

numeral

in

s.

place

red

Serving

.

MF-16

41

Anti-Cold

In

cold weather, use the Anti-Cold Battery Pack OB-2, which
accepts two M -type batteries,
to the batteries inside the camera body. Simply connect the
OB

-2 to the camera body, then slip the assembly inside your
pocket or coat to keep it warm. This assures that the camera's
metering system will function even

Battery

Pack

as

DB-2

an

alternative power supply

in

very cold temperatures.

piece correction lens most suitable for
trying out various models at the camera shop.

Cable

The

Release AR-3

screw-type AR-3 makes for vibration-free shutter release.

you

only after actually

Right-Angie

Screws onto the viewfinder eyepiece
image at a
for closeup photography, duplication work

Eyepiece

Attached to the viewfinder eyepiece, this accessory enlarges
the image at the center of the viewfinder to assure ever precise
focusing in closeup photography, duplication work
photography.

Viewing

90·

angle to the camera's optical axis.

Magnifier

Attachment

@)

DG-2

DR-3

to provide a viewfinder

and

Very

and

helpful

tele-

photomicrography.

Rubbereyecup

Attached to the finder eyepiece, this eyecup excludes strong
light and helps prevent eye fatigue.

Eyepiece

Accessory lenses that screw onto the viewfinder eyepiece to
enable near­out having to wear eyeglasses. Nine models are available,
offering a choice of the following diopters:

+0.5, +1,
dioptry
eyepiece correction lens only.

42

correction

and

farsighted photographers.to take pictures with-

+2

of

and +3; the diopters represent the combined

the viewfinder

lenses

and

lens,

and

For

best results, choose the

-5, -4, -3, -2

not the dioptry of the

, 0,

eye

DG

DR-3

q~a-

-

Eyepiece correction lenses

_____________

-2 Rubber eyecup

~~

AR-3

Filters

As

is

shown on the table, Nikon filters are broadly divided into
the screw-in, drop-in, and bayonet type, Because the FM2
incorporates a
be ignored except in the case of the R60, For exampl
using the R60

TIL

full-aperture metering, the filter factor can

e,

in

daylight, set the aperture three f/stops wider

when

than the figure indicated by the exposure meter,

Notes:

1)

For lens protection, the

2)

When shooting a backlit subject

frame,

a ghost Image

you should take the picture without

NC

filter

is

recommended,

or

if

is

likely to resuff from the use

there's a bright light source

a

filter,

of a finer,

In

this case,

in

the

Lenshoods

Recommended to prevent extraneous light from striking the
lens, Nikon
snap-on, and collapsible-rubber. Every lens should
the lens hood specially designed for
lens hoods can be used

's

lens hoods come

in

in

four styles: screw-in, slip-on,

be

it.

Note, however, that some

common by several lenses,

fitted with

Black&wni1.

'""-

G

..

"

So'

12

'hi

43

Camera

Semi-soft cases, such
available.
with a lens smaller than
camera mounted with any lens from 50mm
When
The

cases

The

a motor drive

soft-type CS-

as

CF-27 case accommodates the FM2 mounted

16

the CF-27, CF-

50

mm

f/1

is

attached to the FM2,

case

is

also available.

28

.4.

The CF-

fl1

.2 to 105mm f/2.5.

use

and CF-29, are

28

is

for the

the CF-29 case.

Neckstraps

Available are the leather neckstrap
neckstraps AN-4Y (yellow) and AN-4B (black), and wider

webbed nylon neckstraps AN-6Y (yellow) and

AN-1

(black), webbed nylon

AN-6W

(brown).

Compartment

A wide selection of six types to choose from, ranging from a
compact type to a large type which can accommodate large or
bulky camera equipment:
and FB-17.

44

cases

FB-8, FB-11A, FB-14, FB-15,

FB-16

TIPS

ON BATTERY USE

• Keep batteries away from infants and small children.
case a battery
immediately
serious problems.

• Battery power falls off
this may cause the camera's photometeric circuit to mal-

function.

the camera body from the cold. Note that battery power

be

recovered

will
normal.

• Should the battery
period, insufficient contact may occur due to battery
leakage. Thus, it
battery and the contact section
with a soft cloth. If the battery chamber
leaking battery, remove the battery at once and clean
the chamber.

• If you're using a pair of batteries, change them at the same
time; never mix new and old batteries .

• When not using the camera for a long period, take bat­teries out and store them

• Never disassemble batteries or discard them

• When using a pair of batteries, make sure they are of the

same make.

• Always check battery power before the shooting session

because battery power can become exhausted without
warning.
during a protracted shooting assignment.
In

normal

•
battery packed with this camera, however,
poses only

is

accidentally swallowed, call a doctor

as

the material inside the batteries can cause

in

extremely cold temperatures and

In

this situation,

is

It

is

a good idea to have spare batteries

use

, a battery's lifespan

so

its lifespan may

use

new batteries

as

soon

as

the temperature becomes

be

left

in

the battery chamber for a long

good practice to periodically clean the

in

in

the battery chamber

is

a cool, dry place.

is

about one year.

be

shorter than usual.

and

protect

stained with a

in

fire.

on

hand

is

The

for test pur-

In

45

TIPS

Although the FM2

ON CAMERACARE

is

a tough
and durable camera, bear
mi

nd

that

is

or

rough handli

a precision opti-

and

that care-

ng

cal instrument,

less

damage it. Observe the

and

the

lowing tips,

always work
the d

ay

you

bought

FM2 will

as

perfectly as

it.

may

fol

in

-

• Don't touch
the

focusing screen
them from getting scratch
Remove dust with a blower·type
brush.

the

reflex mirror or

to

-----------

•

Do

prevent

ed

.

not tou

tains.

x

ch

the shutter cur-

• Clean glass
the lens or
with a blower-type brush ; avoid
usi

ng lens tissue
possible. Gently wipe dirt,
smudges
soft cotton moistened
small amount
cohol, using a spiral motion
from center
sure

you

leave

su

rfaces such

the

finder

as

or

fingerprints with

of

absolute

to

periphery. M

no

wiping traces.

eyepiece
much

With

as

as

al-

ake

a

• Generally, t
need lubrication.

46

he

camera does not

If

the

camera body

•
to

rain or mist, wipe
gently with a soft cloth a
t

he

camera. After
camera nea
care that
cloth moistened with pure

to

water
traces

of

salt.

is

exposed

mOistu

usi

r salt water, t

you

wipe

it

remove possib

nd dry

ng t

with a

he

ake

•

If

the

Inside

accidentally gets wet, its inter-

re

nal

precision parts

ake

rusty. T
away

to

the

Ni

kon

dealer for a checkup

which may require repair pay-

ment.

le

of

the

camera body

may

the camera right

nearest

authorized

get

When

not

•
a long time,
teries
away from
high

humidity, naphtha

camphor,

and

uSing

store

high

the

camera

take out

the

temperatur

the

bat-

camera
line,

for

e,

or

Caution:

Please note that the use

of

a spray-gun type blower to clean
the lens may cause possible dam­age to the glass (especially when
ED

glass

is

element),
temperature on the lens surface.
avoid
upright, keep its nozzle more than
30cm
from the lens surface and move the

•

used for the front lens

by

suddenly lowering the

damage, hold
(approx. 12 inches)

In

a humid envi
best to store
vinyl

bag
keep away dust, moisture and
salt.

ronment,

the

camera in a

with a desiccant to

the

To

blower

away

it

nozzle around
air

is

not concentrated

x

is

• Note that stori
in

a vinyl
leather to deteriorate,
cise

so

that the stream

in

one spot.

of

ap~

\ (

.

....."

ng

leather cases

bag

due

may cause

care.

so

the

exer·

•

Clean

metallic parts with a

blower·type brush

soft cloth.

If

the camera malfunctions,

take

it

immediately
authorized
service center.

Nikon

or

with a dry.

to

dealer

an

or

• Before

usi
good practice
oughly first.

ng

the

to

camera.

check

it

is

a

it

thor·

47

SPECIFICATIONS------------

Type of camera:

Usable film :
Picture format:

Lens mount:

Shutter:
Shutter speed settings:
Self-timer:

Viewfinder:
Viewfinder display:

ng

Focusi

Mirror:

screen:

35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) focal
plane shutter camera
Any cartridge-type
24mmx36mm
Nikon F bayonet mount
Vertical-travel, metal focal plane
sh

utter

sec_"'

1/4000 sec

1
fixed settings
Set/cancel type provided;

10-sec. shutter release delay
Eye

-level type, with 93 % frame
coverage
Shutter speed, flnumber, and LED
exposure display for overexposure

35

mm film

.,

B (bulb);

in

all

14

approx.

+ , correct exposure 0 and under-

exposure ­Split-image microprism type (Type
K2)

provided
type (B) and matte with horizontal
and vertical line etchings (E)
optionally available.
Quick-return type

as

standard; matte

Film advance: Lever provided;

Automatic film advance: Possible with optional Motor Drive

Multiple exposure lever:
Frame counter:

Film rewind:

Flash synchronization:

Ready-light:

Exposure meter:

and 1350 winding angle
MD-12

Provided, disengages frame
counter for correct count
Additive type
matically resets to S when camera

is

back
By crank provided after film rewind
button

is

Built-

in
unit; sync cord terminal also
provided;
Provided inside the viewfinder
TTL center-weighted full aperture
exposure measuring system using
a pair of
as

photoelectric element ; measures

from

EV

100

and with 50mm f/1.4 lens (i.e

from 1 sec.

fl8)

300 standoff angle

(S, 0"'36);

opened

pressed

hot shoe for mounting flash

1/250

SPD

's (silicon photodiodes)

1 to

EV

at

fl1 .4 to 1/4000 sec. at

sec. sync

18

at ASAIISO

auto-

.,

48

Film sensitivity range:
Power source:

Exposure meter switch:

Battery power check:

Camera back:

Dimensions (W x H x D):

(camera body only)

Weight:

(camera body only)

ASAIISO

12"'6400
Choice of one 3V lithium battery,
two

1.

55V

two 1.

silver-oxide batteries,

5V

alkaline-manganese

or

batteries
Light pressure on shutter release
button switches

meter

on;

meter
stays on for approx. 30 sec . after
finger leaves button, then auto­matically switches off

LED

exposure display inside view­finder lights up when the exposure
meter is switched on if there
sufficient power (i.e

.,

is

the shutter
speed dial should be set anywhere
except B)
Pops open when the film rewind
knob as the camera back lock is

memo

pushed; detachable;

holder
provided.
Approx. 142.5mm x 90mm x 60mm

in

or 5.6 x 3.5 x 2.4

.

Approx. 540g or 19 oz.

Specifications

are

subject to change without not

ice

.

49

IMPORTANT!

The Nikon FM2

which performs full-aperture metering with

these lenses are fitted with meter coupling ridges

now manufactured by Nikon are the
not your lens

Although almost

is

an

AI-type (Automatic Maximum Aperture Indexing) camera

is

AI

before using

all

Nikkor lenses that have the Nikon F bayonet mount,

it

with the FM2.

AI

-type lenses. The aperture rings of
(see

AI

type. However, please confirm whether or

illustration). Almost

as

all

lenses

well

as

the Nikon Series E lenses, can be mounted on the FM2, the FM2 cannot be used

with Nikkor lenses that have not yet been modified

few special-purpose lenses because the FM2's meter coupling ridge

to

offer the

AI

facility and with a

is

fixed, and
the FM2 does not have a mirror lock-up mechanism. For particulars, refer to the
table below.

Lens

Fi

sheye-Nikkor
Rsheye-Nikkor 1 Omm
PC-Nikkor 2Smm fl4 Serial N

C-

P
Reflex-Nlkkor 1

Reflex-Nlkkor

Zoom-Nikkor
Zoom-Nikkor
Zoom-Nikkor ED

Focu

Other Nikkor lenses that have not

been modified to offer the

6mm

1/5.6

fl5.6 OP Requires mirror l

Nikkor 35mm f/2.S

000mm

fl11

2oo0mm

f/

11

200 -600mm
ED

1S0 -

si

360

ng Unit AU-1 Not usab

f/9.5 coupler lever

600mm

f/S Serial N

- 1200mm f/11 S

AI

facility

Reason Remark s

Requires mirror l

H

its

camera's

ock

-up Not usable

oc

k-up Not usable

meter

Serial Nos. 851
Serial N
than 143000 usable
Serial N
Serial No. 300491 and higher usab

eri

al N

Not usable

o.

1809

01

and higher usable

001

to 906200 not usab

o.

lower than 142361 and higher

o.

2003

11 and higher usable

o.

174167 and higher usab

o.

1740S8 a

nd high

le

er usable

le
le

le

50

No

reproduct
whole
articles
authorization

or

In

or

reviews).

ion

in

any

part (except

may

from

NIKON

,

'~

form

of

this

for

be

manual,

brief quotation

made without

CORPORATION.

NIKON CORPORATION

FUJI BLDG.,

PHONE: [phone] TELEX:

2-3, MARUNOUCHI3-CHOME,

In

In

written

NIKON

critical

CHIYODA-KU,

J22601

Nikon

FAX:

TOKYO

81-3-3201-5856

r

100-8331,

JAPAN

Printed

in

Japan

K8A

1505601

(S391)