The Nikon FE2 is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera, offering aperture-priority auto and manual exposure modes. Known for its durability and versatility, it is a popular choice among photographers, combining advanced features with intuitive controls.
1.1 Overview of the Nikon FE2 Camera
The Nikon FE2 is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera, designed for both professionals and enthusiasts. It features aperture-priority auto and manual exposure modes, offering precise control over photography. Compatible with AI-type lenses, the FE2 combines durability, lightweight design, and advanced functionality, making it a versatile tool for various shooting conditions and creative needs.
1.2 Key Features of the Nikon FE2
The Nikon FE2 offers aperture-priority auto and manual exposure modes, allowing photographers to control their shots precisely. It features a TTL metering system, a wide shutter speed range up to 1/4000 sec, and compatibility with a variety of AI-type lenses. Built with durability in mind, the FE2 is a reliable choice for both casual and professional photography needs.
Camera Components and Controls
The Nikon FE2 features a durable build with intuitive controls, including a shutter speed dial, aperture ring, and exposure compensation dial. It supports motor drives for fast film advancement and is designed for ease of use, ensuring precise control over camera settings and operations.
2.1 External Controls and Their Functions
The Nikon FE2’s external controls include a shutter speed dial with settings from 1/4000 to 8 seconds, an aperture ring for lens control, and an exposure compensation dial. Additionally, it features a film advance lever, rewind crank, and multiple flash contacts. These controls provide photographers with precise command over exposure settings and camera operations, ensuring optimal results in various shooting conditions.
2.2 Internal Components and Mechanisms
The Nikon FE2 features a horizontally traveling focal-plane shutter with speeds up to 1/4000th of a second. Its internal mechanisms include a mirror lock-up system to reduce vibration and a center-weighted TTL metering system for precise exposure control. The camera also incorporates a motor drive coupling for rapid film advance, ensuring smooth and efficient operation during continuous shooting sessions.
Exposure Modes and Metering
The Nikon FE2 offers aperture-priority auto and manual exposure modes, supported by a center-weighted TTL metering system for precise light measurement, catering to both enthusiasts and newcomers.
3.1 Aperture-Priority Auto Exposure Mode
In aperture-priority mode, users set the aperture, and the camera automatically selects the shutter speed. This mode is ideal for controlling depth of field while relying on the TTL metering system for accurate exposures. It suits photographers who prefer creative control over aperture but want the convenience of automatic shutter speed adjustment. Exposure compensation is also available for fine-tuning results.
3.2 Manual Exposure Mode
In manual exposure mode, the Nikon FE2 allows full control over both aperture and shutter speed. Photographers can set these independently, enabling precise control for specific creative or technical requirements. The TTL metering system aids in determining accurate exposures, with LED indicators in the viewfinder providing guidance. This mode is ideal for experienced users who prefer hands-on adjustment in challenging lighting conditions.
3.3 TTL Metering System
The Nikon FE2 features a TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering system, providing accurate exposure measurements. It uses a silicon photocell to measure light and offers center-weighted and spot metering modes. The system supports AI-type lenses for full-aperture metering, ensuring precise control over exposures. This advanced metering capability enhances versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of lighting conditions and shooting scenarios.
Viewfinder and Focusing Screens
The Nikon FE2 features a high-eyepoint viewfinder with 93% frame coverage, making composition easy. It includes a Type K2 focusing screen as standard, with optional screens available for specialized focusing needs.
4.1 Standard and Optional Focusing Screens
The Nikon FE2 comes with a standard Type K2 focusing screen, designed for general photography. Optional screens include Type B2, offering a matte/Fresnel surface with a central focusing spot for precise manual focusing. These screens enhance visibility in low-light conditions and with wide-aperture lenses, providing flexibility for various shooting scenarios.
4.2 Viewfinder Information Display
The Nikon FE2’s viewfinder displays essential shooting information, including shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation. A ready-light indicates flash readiness, while an LED blinks to warn of insufficient flash output or incorrect settings. This clear display aids in quick adjustments, ensuring precise control over exposure and flash synchronization for optimal results in various lighting conditions.
Flash Photography and Accessories
The Nikon FE2 supports dedicated Nikon flash units, offering advanced flash metering and synchronization. Accessories like the Motor Drive MD-11 enhance shooting speed and efficiency with flash photography.
5.1 Compatible Nikon Flash Units
Nikon FE2 is compatible with various Nikon flash units, ensuring reliable flash synchronization and metering. Popular units include the SB-10, SB-11, and SB-12, which integrate seamlessly with the camera’s systems. These flashes offer features like TTL metering and automatic exposure, enhancing versatility in low-light conditions. The camera’s hot shoe and PC sync terminal provide multiple connectivity options for external flash units, allowing photographers to achieve professional results with ease and precision.
5.2 Flash Synchronization and Settings
The Nikon FE2 supports flash synchronization at X-sync speed of 1/250 sec, ensuring precise timing for flash photography. The camera features a ready-light indication in the viewfinder and an LED on the flash unit to confirm proper synchronization. Automatic shutter speed adjustment to 1/250 sec occurs when a compatible flash is attached, optimizing exposure. Manual settings are also available for advanced control, allowing photographers to fine-tune their flash output for creative results.
5.3 Motor Drive and Other Accessories
The Nikon FE2 supports the MD-11 and MD-12 motor drives, enabling continuous shooting at up to 3.2 frames per second. The motor drive MD-11 offers high-speed film advance, ideal for action photography. Additionally, the MB-20 battery grip extends shooting capacity and comfort. These accessories enhance functionality, making the FE2 a versatile tool for photographers seeking efficiency and reliability in various shooting scenarios.
Battery and Power Management
The Nikon FE2 uses a battery to power its metering and shutter mechanisms. The camera operates efficiently with minimal power consumption, ensuring reliable performance during extended use.
6.1 Battery Requirements and Installation
The Nikon FE2 requires a SR44 or equivalent battery for operation. To install, open the battery compartment located on the base of the camera. Insert the battery with the positive terminal facing upward, ensuring proper alignment. Close the compartment securely. The camera is designed to minimize power consumption, allowing extended use. Always use the correct battery type to avoid leaks or damage.
6.2 Power Conservation Features
The Nikon FE2 incorporates power-saving features to extend battery life. The camera automatically shuts off the exposure meter when not in use, reducing energy consumption. To conserve power, ensure the exposure compensation dial is set to 0 and avoid unnecessary meter activations. Proper battery installation and using the correct settings further enhance efficiency, ensuring reliable performance during extended use. Regularly check battery levels to prevent unexpected shutdowns, and replace batteries promptly to maintain optimal functionality. Using the recommended battery type helps prevent leaks and ensures consistent power delivery to the camera’s electronic systems, supporting its advanced features like metering and shutter control. Proper care and adherence to power-saving practices can significantly prolong battery life, making the FE2 a reliable choice for photographers in various shooting conditions. Always turn off the camera when not in use to minimize drain, especially during long periods of inactivity, ensuring the FE2 remains ready for capturing high-quality images effortlessly. By following these guidelines, users can maximize the camera’s efficiency and enjoy uninterrupted photography sessions without compromising on performance or functionality. Finally, keeping the camera in a cool, dry place when not in use helps preserve battery health and overall device longevity.
Shutter and Mirror Operation
The Nikon FE2 features a focal plane shutter with speeds from 1/4000 sec. to 8 sec. It includes a mirror lock-up mechanism to reduce vibration during exposure, ensuring sharper images, especially in manual mode.
7.1 Shutter Speed Range and Controls
The Nikon FE2 offers a wide shutter speed range from 1/4000 of a second to 8 seconds, providing precise control over exposure; The shutter controls are ergonomically placed, allowing easy adjustment using the shutter speed dial. This range caters to various lighting conditions, enabling photographers to capture sharp images in both bright and low-light environments effectively. The mechanism ensures smooth operation, minimizing camera shake and noise.
7.2 Mirror Lock-Up and Vibration Reduction
The Nikon FE2 features a mirror lock-up mechanism to minimize camera shake during exposure, particularly useful for macro or telephoto photography. This function ensures the mirror is lifted before the shutter opens, reducing vibrations. While the FE2 does not incorporate electronic vibration reduction, the mirror lock-up feature effectively enhances image clarity by mechanically stabilizing the camera during shooting, ensuring sharp results.
Interchangeable Lenses
The Nikon FE2 supports AI-Type lenses, ensuring compatibility and ease of use. Its design allows seamless aperture control and lens changes, enhancing flexibility for photographers.
8.1 Compatibility with AI-Type Lenses
The Nikon FE2 is fully compatible with AI-Type lenses, including AI-Nikkor and Nikon Series E lenses. These lenses feature automatic maximum aperture indexing, enabling precise aperture control and full-aperture metering. This compatibility ensures seamless integration and enhances shooting flexibility, making the FE2 a versatile choice for photographers using a wide range of Nikon lenses.
8.2 Lens Mounting and Demounting
To mount a lens, align the lens mount with the camera’s bayonet, ensuring the indexing mark on the lens aligns with the white dot on the camera. Gently twist the lens counterclockwise until it clicks securely. To demount, press the lens release button and twist clockwise. Always handle lenses carefully to avoid damage or misalignment, ensuring proper functionality and image quality.
Film Loading and Advance
Loading film involves inserting the cartridge into the chamber and advancing it to the first frame. The FE2 features a smooth film advance mechanism, ensuring precise control. Motor drives can be attached for rapid film advancement, while manual advance offers a tactile experience.
9.1 Film Loading and Unloading
Insert the film cartridge into the chamber, ensuring it aligns correctly. Advance the film to the first frame using the rewind knob or motor drive. Properly unload the film by rewinding it completely, ensuring no light exposure. Always handle film in low-light conditions to prevent damage. The FE2’s mechanism ensures smooth loading and unloading processes for optimal film protection.
9.2 Film Advance Mechanism
The Nikon FE2 features a smooth film advance mechanism, allowing manual or motor-driven operation. The motor drive enables rapid advance of up to 3.2 frames per second. After loading, ensure the shutter is cocked before advancing. The mechanism ensures precise frame alignment and consistent spacing. A distinct sound confirms each advance, providing tactile feedback. The system is designed for reliability and seamless operation during shooting sessions.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regular cleaning of mirrors and lenses with a soft cloth is essential. Avoid harsh chemicals. For troubleshooting, check battery power and ensure the exposure compensation dial is set to zero. Proper storage in a dry place prevents mechanical issues.
10.1 Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Regularly clean the camera’s mirrors and lenses with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dust and smudges. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Store the camera in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture damage. Ensure all controls function smoothly and check the exposure compensation dial is set to zero when not in use for optimal performance and longevity.
10.2 Common Issues and Solutions
Common issues with the Nikon FE2 include improper flash unit settings, meter needle misalignment, or film advance mechanism jams. Ensure the exposure compensation dial is set to zero and verify flash unit compatibility. For meter inaccuracies, clean the contacts and check battery power. If issues persist, consult the manual or contact a professional for detailed troubleshooting and maintenance to restore optimal functionality.
The Nikon FE2 is a reliable and versatile camera, blending ease of use with advanced features. This manual provides comprehensive guidance to unlock its full potential effectively.
11.1 Summary of the Nikon FE2 Manual
The Nikon FE2 manual details a versatile 35mm SLR camera with aperture-priority and manual modes, compatible with AI-type lenses. It features TTL metering, flash synchronization, and a durable build, making it ideal for both enthusiasts and professionals. The guide covers operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring users can fully utilize the camera’s capabilities for precise and creative photography.
11.2 Final Tips for Effective Use
Regularly clean the camera and lenses to maintain optimal performance. Use genuine Nikon accessories for compatibility and reliability. Familiarize yourself with the manual to explore all features. Experiment with manual mode for creative control. Store the camera in a dry, cool place to prevent damage. Always carry spare batteries for extended shoots. Practice and patience will enhance your photography skills with the FE2.