I own an F5 and using it is a pure joy. This is a masterpiece of engineering from the 90's. The viewfinder is incredible, AF is brutally fast, and you can use modern Nikkor lenses on it.
I started in photography, with an Argus Cosina. After having moderate luck with it, I moved up to a Canon F-1. That was in 1972 or so. Then, when I started work with Nikon as a sales rep, I sold all my Canon equipment, and went and stayed with Nikon. I have had many Nikons over the years. In 2001, I traded my two Nikon N90s cameras, with each one having the added motor and my complete Mamiya RB 67 Outfit for two new Nikon F5 cameras. Those are the last Nikons I have purchased, other than lenses. I do not have digital, yet, but do shoot the film cameras once in awhile. I was a working pro from 1974 till the late 90's or until digital really took over. I would like to get a new D850 when I hit the lottery. Thank you for your videos
Ahh, good to see 'my' F5 again. One of these was my pro' work camera for a 2-3 years, until my workplace went digital with the D1. Even then the F5 was a back up body, all the way until - unused for years - 2013! Such a great, sturdy, comfortable camera, swift and smooth shooting, but yes it's heavy. But this weight turned out to be training for using every pro Nikon since, from D1 on, they've all been the weight of an F5, or more! A more petite F5 is the lovely F100, which is really like an updated F3 size camera. Thanks for the nostalgia hit!
I'm an Nikon user and I have this Nikon F5, yes it is a heavy tank, but a fantastic tank. I've been an Nikon user since the Nikon F Photomic FTN. Nikon F3 motorized I had that too than switched to the F5. I've retired from professional photography now but I still love photography. I acquired the NIKON D700 digital camera, a heavy camera as well, but very reliable and easy to use. Excellent for travel. No more have to carry tons of film that takes more room and nightmare going through airport check ins, and exposed film getting zapped going through x-rays. I enjoyed your informative video, keep up the good work.
I just bought an F5 a few weeks ago. I spent a considerable amount of time looking for a review of the camera but had no luck. Thanks for the upload it was exactly what I have been looking for. I will defiantly be subscribing!
I’m sure Ted and I were really drooling over the Nikon F4 in our high school days. I remember seeing the price in the B & H ads. It was way out side my budget as a teen.
That's my favorite camera! I was very fascinated from this futuristic SLR. I found a used one for about 100 bucks, then I brought it to a Nikon center for a complete overhaul. Now I am enjoying this awesome beast! Thanks for the review! P.S.: With the help of an Arduino i got the EXIF data out of my F5 without needing any special equipment!
I believe that the motor drive was standard on the F4, it was not an accessory (same is true of all F4 family cameras). However, the version you showed included the optional grip. Without the grip, the F4 looks and feels much smaller in size. The F5 has a standard configuration of a gripped camera, much like all of the flagship DSLRs that followed it. I shoot the F4 and F5 regularly...the F4 uses 4xAA batteries and the F5 uses 8xAA batteries...I have to change the F5 batteries more often, even though I usually take the F4 owing to its smaller size. So the F4 grip is not really necessary for providing extra battery life, and I would only recommend it for "grip" alone.
I believe the F4 has a rewind lever. Maybe that's the reference.....Definitely no advance lever though! I love the F5! My favorite film camera. The last F model with an interchangeable view finder. I loved the waist level finder for mushroom photography. If I remember correctly, you lost matrix metering when using the waist level finder. The F5 was eye opening for sports shooting. I still remember how it really changed my racing photos.
@@terrygoyan yes, the F4 has a rewind lever, but it is optional. It has motorized rewind. You would only do it manually if you run out of battery or want to save power.
My photography teacher had one of these when I was in high school, he had it plugged in to a battery pack for the lighting tripped on the sync cable knocked the camera on the floor and cracked the body.
I had the AE-1 from my father, too ..i loved the hell out of it for years after he gave it to me.. before that, he photographed me with it when i was a kid just like your dad Sabrina..sometimes when i was younger and our family was on vacation, he would let me hold it, showed me how to use the viewfinder, the shutter, the aperture, focus..it was such a fantastic, flawless camera..and the FD 50 1.4 was just beautiful to use.. the camera was in our family since the late 70s and i always looked at it not as just a camera...it was way more than that. Earlier this year, some jerk broke into my car and stole it. My Dad took it pretty well, for him it was just a tool..but i am just heartbroken as I always imagined that i would use it to pass the passion for photography on to my kids someday..
Have you ever had or tried the Canon F-1? Legitimately stripping everything but aperture, shutter speed and ASA speed. Unforgiving and simple and I love it.
Hmm see and it's a matter of taste, granted...but What I love about 35mm cameras is encapsulated by the Nikon F3, FE and FM. Small, with Manual hands on dials, rather than displays and menus. The F3 its more organic its light and tough. I shoot digital loads too with my canon 6D...but The F5 sort of seams like its a mix of the two, but because of the size...and weight, it lacking the benefits of the F3, I may as well take my DSLR so that yes I'm lumping round my big posh camera, but I have endless photos I can shoot. I got the Nikon 801s and find I never use it. Sorry rant over, love the channel, your doing a great job and deserve all the success in the world Steve H
Thank you for your most excellent review of the Nikon F5. It was your review of the F5 that convinced me to buy one, and to get back into film photography, of which I offer my thanks. All I now have to do is buy a scanner and also the Meta 35.
I have an F5 which I purchased brand new, had less than 2000 shots and immaculate. Although I use mainly Large Format 4x5 and digital D800, I will never part with the F5. Every time I pick it up it brings a grin to my face! Ted your presentations are interesting and your personality is very endearing. Thank you for all your efforts. 👍🏻
Hello Ted:I must tell you after shooting digital for the last ten years I've pulled out my old cameras and I am going through a rebirth with film Its like being 16 again and using my first camera from dad. Just holding my F and F2 is fun again I live how people look at me when I use my Leica m3 and they want to know why I shoot it. I have now moved into large format and loving it. To spend the evening processing film is magic for me and I have started giving some of my photos as gifts. So I wish you all the best in this new year. Happy shooting Thanks Jim
Cole Trudo since this comment I have bought one and love it haha I also work in a camera shop and we have an F5 which I have also tried but still prefer the F4 which feels equal in weight, I have considered the F100 as that is much lighter and if you want the higher frame rate or more AF points is a good way to go, but I am incredibly happy with the F4 and it's so reliable because it's built like a tank
Im picking up an f70 today i believe it was produced at the same time just the mid range consumer model. Any expiriences with that camera? I've seen mixed reviews but it was free with a lens!
There are great Old cameras out there that can still out perform any digital camera today. Nikon, Contax, Minolta XD, etc.. These cameras are works of art in there own right. As it would cost a fortune to build them today. And yes you need film and chemicals but thats the point. You get touch, Feel and interact with what it is your are doing. Something a flat screen and software can't teach you. Great Stuff
Nice review Ted, I look forward to the 2nd part. I've been using my F5 for a couple years now I guess and its become my go-to choice when shooting 35mm. I collect cameras, mostly 35mm "pro" gear from the 70's and 80's. I have Nikon, Canon, Olympus, Minolta, etc. available. I like a lot of em, love some of them, but the F5 is just so good at what it does. If I just want to be sure I get the shot, its the F5.
I purchased the F5 when it first came out. It has everything an outstanding film camera can offer, especially for sports, motor racing and wildlife. Rugged beyond belief. Yes, it is a “brick” to carry. Is comparable with all my Nikon glass.
Have an F5 to go along with my D1x and D800. Rock solid camera, since I had been shooting on the D1x for a few years, the slight backwards step to the F5 was quite natural and easy. Love this camera.
+ilyPenn23 F100 = Great camera. It is my all time favorite. But: Eventually the F100 back will fail, the plastic tabs of the closing mechanism break because of plastic fatigue. Had it happen on both my F100. Finding replacement used to be quite easy, but is not anymore. 'Fresh' F100 is cheaper, but will probably suffer the same faith. The F100 will disappear about 10 years after the last spare back has been put into service.
I love my F5, It's so much better than my Canon 1n RS in my own opinion. But the only down side for me on the F5 is the vertical grip, there's hardly anything to hold on to and im always accidentally tripping the shutter on it when im shooting in landscape.
It's bigger than your head! After handling both, I eventually chose the F100 over the F5 because of the heft you describe and the features I don't think would impact on the way I shoot significantly (shit, I still use a Spotmatic and their awesome array of M42 lenses sometimes), build quality also feels the same (although I am aware of the spec differences such as the plastic door, I didn't personally notice them), but it's not a camera I could see myself using on a walkabout. I can use the MB-15 if and when I need it. I'm still going to get one (pristine as possible) at some point though when I have a bit of spare cash. Currently the F6 doesn't seem to be justifiable. My pipe dream is that when Nikon do ever decide to stop manufacturing film SLR's they might release a batch of something like an F7 with all the internal gubbins and metering points of the current flagship D models. If they still have the production lines running of course. Maybe it won't happen, but I think it would be a good send off and testament to their 35mm legacy. Odd that they didn't include a removable prism for the F6 though.
I just bought one today. I've had my F4 for a couple of years and have enjoyed my time with it, but I have huge hands and without the battery grip attachment, it's ok, but also annoying at times. Shoots great tho. I wanted to be able to use more modern lenses and have the front and back f stop & shutter speed control dials, making it easier to set up and get the shot.
I’m currently debating getting an F5. I have an F4. I love everything about it except the autofocus Would you mind sharing your thoughts about the F4 vs F5?
Loved the video Ted! Would like to see some representation of Olympus addicts like me though. The OM1 and OM2 are great cameras (my OM2n is gorgeous), the OM10 is a lovely starter camera and they did some really interesting stuff with the PEN series. I'm currently on the hunt for a PEN-FT, the only half-frame SLR ever made...
Very versatile if you get the manual adapter for the shutter speed as well. The standard 50mm 1.8 is gorgeous, it was my first camera and I didn't realise how much that lens had spoiled me until I started buying others!
I still rememeber first time seeing Nikon F4 on the shelf,behind counter in the photo store "Lens@Shutter",Vancouver,Canada.I was stunt.This was almost like seeing first time Lotus Esprit or similar high performance car.Photography was just becoming my new hobby,but even then I knew,this is some serious tool (or instrument). Yes,Canon EOS was modern auto focus system,but it was around for the few years already. But,this F5 looks like today's modern digital SLR,sort of lioke D3X. One think,i wish my D610 has,is mechanical mirror lock-up.When I shoot pictures for stitching in the panorama,why the mirror has to come down after pressing shutter?
Awesome video, Ted! I really the film videos that you produce. Thanks for what you do. When I was looking for a 35mm film camera I considered the F5 but instead went with the F3HP.
I bought a copy of the f5 recently with an SB800 for use at work. Camera seems to work fine in general but I keep getting sync issues when shooting with a flash. Initially I thought I might have knocked the shutter dial above the sync speed but after shooting another test roll with the shutter set to 250X and locked I still got sync issues. Is this an issue with flash compatibility or is it an issue with the camera? There hasn't been any funny business when shooting the camera with natural light so I'm not incline to think the shutter is on\ the way out.
this was my dream camera when i was in high school. I have considered getting one now but the size and the 8 batteries (!) make me worry i wouldn't use it enough to justify the purchase. My N90s does almost everything the f5 does and only uses 4 batteries even with the verticle grip
I have been considering the Nikon F5 for a long time! However, I have too many film cameras that seldomly expose film. I do have a similar camera called a Minolta Alpha 9. It is said to have been the inspiration for the Nikon F5. It still works superbly, albeit, the camera grip has disintegrated as well with my other Minolta camera bodies. Perhaps this Nikon will be better manufactured! Also, I would like to own prime Nikon glass for the F5. Now it’s a mater of finding the correct specimen and lens to go. Perhaps even a flash for her!
Absolutely Awesome just saw this on Darryl Channel and agree did not like the date and time as well.Amazing blast from the past and truly a Beast.Thanks so much for sharing Deb 👍✌
Thanks for this informative video. I am a professional photographer that prefers to shoot film whenever it makes sense. I have an FE2, AF, F100, three (awesome - love them) Nikkormats, Big F, F4S, and six Nikon DSLRs, and am looking for the Nikon film camera with the best auto focus. Is there any difference between the AF of the F5 and the F6? And for that matter, is it better than the F100, which is pretty basic but effective?
The ISO is normally set by the DX encoding on the film cassette. The ISO button is used to override the automatic setting, or set the speed for non-coded film.
+Eirik Havre You can choose to shoot film at higher than the rated speed (pushing) or lower (pulling), compensating for the exposure change during development. A roll is shot at a single ISO; when shooting film it can't be changed frame to frame.
you're a very lucky man Ted, great pro film camera! but i do agree with you about the F3, never shot it but from what ive seen (mostly from you) its a beauty! have you ever thought about doing an interview or loan kinda deal with Denton Camera Exchange?
The Art of Photography do you possibly follow them on instagram? thats the only thing i know them through? well im in England but it would definitely be a priority stop for me if i ever come over to the states
If only there was a camera which had automatic programmable bracketing which could be triggered by one shutter button. An in built reciprocity calculator which could be upgraded to different film profiles with a simple firmware update along with all these features I just wouldn't be able to find a point to shoot digital. All I would ever want from the photography experience would be simply tangible within one workhorse.
never understood really expensive film cameras, especially now in 2017. the way i see it is that it still shoots film, the type of film is what matters, your glass and skills as a photographer. what justifys the price?
Joshua Graham the F5 makes perfect sense for someone who wants the ultimate 35mm camera, the F5's light meter is amazingly good, you can use modern Nikon lenses on them, and they are absolutely bulletproof, it makes sense because it allows you to do things you simply can't do with 95% of film cameras.
What I want to know is, the body is made of steel, magnesium alloy, or aluminum? I found out that for example the Leica R8 is aluminum, that was a total let down.
Enjoyed this video, would've enjoyed it even more a year ago when I was buying one! Loving the F5 because it plays well with the modern lenses and is very similar to the D3/D4, and it does everything you could possibly ask. Looking forward to the metadata part!
Total overkill for shooting 35mm ! : ) Looks heavier than my Pentax 67 with all those batteries. Most people shooting film today appreciate the simplicity and slow pace of film photography. I would take an FM3a/FE2 over the F5/ F6 anyday. But I bet this beast was an amazing workhorse back in the day, specially for sports, wildlife, studio etc
Do you mean like some kind of modular digital back? I don't even know how they'd do that. It would be a bit pointless though, the metering specs of the F5 have been superseded and incorporated long ago by D models. The point is, if you want your images to look like film, shoot on film. I'm not one for 'film presets', they always look like digital images (nothing wrong with that, I love digital just as much) but nothing is going to replicate the look of certain processes (especially slide films). When I look up examples of film stock that's either been pushed or pulled, I can tell just by the scanned Google image results in the thumbnails that all they've done is up or lower the saturation and the contrast for a 'Pushed' or 'Pulled' look. Inevitably it's some VSCO setting or other. I miss Cibachrome/Ilfochrome. Nothing currently beats the look of those prints. Shame it's been thrown under the bus in only the last ten years. I don't see why certain photographers eschew one medium for the other if they truly love the art form. They should exist side by side. Early adopters and obsessed tech heads think otherwise. I'd never say to someone who uses oil paints/watercolours/pencil/charcoal etc to use Adobe Paint or Draw to imitate those mediums. That's not me at work, that's some guy creating an algorithm with the click of a mouse in an office somewhere else.
there's a chart of all lenses supported, as well as metering modes and some limitations - go google for an F5 manual and download it. The one I just looked at these were around page 125. Almost all lens options at the time of its release were supported to one degree or another. One thing was having a matte screen in it to use some of the lenses because they didn't all do the electronic stuff...
I own an F5 and using it is a pure joy. This is a masterpiece of engineering from the 90's. The viewfinder is incredible, AF is brutally fast, and you can use modern Nikkor lenses on it.
I started in photography, with an Argus Cosina. After having moderate luck with it, I moved up to a Canon F-1. That was in 1972 or so. Then, when I started work with Nikon as a sales rep, I sold all my Canon equipment, and went and stayed with Nikon. I have had many Nikons over the years. In 2001, I traded my two Nikon N90s cameras, with each one having the added motor and my complete Mamiya RB 67 Outfit for two new Nikon F5 cameras. Those are the last Nikons I have purchased, other than lenses. I do not have digital, yet, but do shoot the film cameras once in awhile. I was a working pro from 1974 till the late 90's or until digital really took over. I would like to get a new D850 when I hit the lottery. Thank you for your videos
Ahh, good to see 'my' F5 again. One of these was my pro' work camera for a 2-3 years, until my workplace went digital with the D1. Even then the F5 was a back up body, all the way until -
unused for years - 2013!
Such a great, sturdy, comfortable camera, swift and smooth shooting, but yes it's heavy. But this weight turned out to be training for using every pro Nikon since, from D1 on, they've all been the weight of an F5, or more! A more petite F5 is the lovely F100, which is really like an updated F3 size camera. Thanks for the nostalgia hit!
Use the Nikon F5 still my main camera and the Nikon D4 as my backup. The feeling with the Nikon F5 is far superior than the digitaal camera’s now.
Got an F5 based on this video. I fucking love shooting with it. What a tank.
F5 is a beast, but I have gone into Rolleiflex and can't return to 35 mm. Scanning large negatives is so much easier.
Public Administration wait until you touch 4x5
Thank you for posting this video, i have recently purchased a Nikon F5, and will start shooting soon, it is seriously a heavy beast of a camera.
I'm an Nikon user and I have this Nikon F5, yes it is a heavy tank, but a fantastic tank. I've been an Nikon user since the Nikon F Photomic FTN. Nikon F3 motorized I had that too than switched to the F5. I've retired from professional photography now but I still love photography. I acquired the NIKON D700 digital camera, a heavy camera as well, but very reliable and easy to use. Excellent for travel. No more have to carry tons of film that takes more room and nightmare going through airport check ins, and exposed film getting zapped going through x-rays. I enjoyed your informative video, keep up the good work.
I just bought an F5 a few weeks ago. I spent a considerable amount of time looking for a review of the camera but had no luck. Thanks for the upload it was exactly what I have been looking for. I will defiantly be subscribing!
Thanks Caleb. You're going to love it.
+Caleb Stockton aslo check out www.nikonf5.net/ The F5 is an amazing camera!
I’m sure Ted and I were really drooling over the Nikon F4 in our high school days. I remember seeing the price in the B & H ads. It was way out side my budget as a teen.
The description is wrong, the F5 was introsuced in June 1996 and went on sale in October 1996.
I had the F5 - a complete tank - used it for years - I have to say the D75s was a HUGE step down. Digital has finally caught up thank goodness.
That's my favorite camera! I was very fascinated from this futuristic SLR. I found a used one for about 100 bucks, then I brought it to a Nikon center for a complete overhaul. Now I am enjoying this awesome beast!
Thanks for the review!
P.S.: With the help of an Arduino i got the EXIF data out of my F5 without needing any special equipment!
I believe that the motor drive was standard on the F4, it was not an accessory (same is true of all F4 family cameras). However, the version you showed included the optional grip. Without the grip, the F4 looks and feels much smaller in size. The F5 has a standard configuration of a gripped camera, much like all of the flagship DSLRs that followed it. I shoot the F4 and F5 regularly...the F4 uses 4xAA batteries and the F5 uses 8xAA batteries...I have to change the F5 batteries more often, even though I usually take the F4 owing to its smaller size. So the F4 grip is not really necessary for providing extra battery life, and I would only recommend it for "grip" alone.
All models of the F4 have motor drive, there is NO Lever. What you are referring to is add'l battery pack and abilty to hold in Portrait.
I believe the F4 has a rewind lever. Maybe that's the reference.....Definitely no advance lever though! I love the F5! My favorite film camera.
The last F model with an interchangeable view finder. I loved the waist level finder for mushroom photography. If I remember correctly, you lost matrix metering when using the waist level finder. The F5 was eye opening for sports shooting. I still remember how it really changed my racing photos.
@@terrygoyan yes, the F4 has a rewind lever, but it is optional. It has motorized rewind. You would only do it manually if you run out of battery or want to save power.
My photography teacher had one of these when I was in high school, he had it plugged in to a battery pack for the lighting tripped on the sync cable knocked the camera on the floor and cracked the body.
Thats weird because normally F5s are rugged as hell
I had the AE-1 from my father, too ..i loved the hell out of it for years after he gave it to me.. before that, he photographed me with it when i was a kid just like your dad Sabrina..sometimes when i was younger and our family was on vacation, he would let me hold it, showed me how to use the viewfinder, the shutter, the aperture, focus..it was such a fantastic, flawless camera..and the FD 50 1.4 was just beautiful to use.. the camera was in our family since the late 70s and i always looked at it not as just a camera...it was way more than that. Earlier this year, some jerk broke into my car and stole it. My Dad took it pretty well, for him it was just a tool..but i am just heartbroken as I always imagined that i would use it to pass the passion for photography on to my kids someday..
Have you ever had or tried the Canon F-1? Legitimately stripping everything but aperture, shutter speed and ASA speed. Unforgiving and simple and I love it.
I had a choice between the F5 and the F100 with a battery grip and went with the F100.
Hmm see and it's a matter of taste, granted...but
What I love about 35mm cameras is encapsulated by the Nikon F3, FE and FM.
Small, with Manual hands on dials, rather than displays and menus.
The F3 its more organic its light and tough.
I shoot digital loads too with my canon 6D...but
The F5 sort of seams like its a mix of the two, but because of the size...and weight, it lacking the benefits of the F3, I may as well take my DSLR so that yes I'm lumping round my big posh camera, but I have endless photos I can shoot.
I got the Nikon 801s and find I never use it.
Sorry rant over, love the channel, your doing a great job and deserve all the success in the world
Steve H
I love my F5 and so pleased I have one. Thanks for a great show Ted.
Loved this beast. I used it up to 2004. Have not touch it for more than 10 years. Too heavy.
Wenyu Lian willing to sell ?
Thank you for your most excellent review of the Nikon F5. It was your review of the F5 that convinced me to buy one, and to get back into film photography, of which I offer my thanks. All I now have to do is buy a scanner and also the Meta 35.
I have an F5 which I purchased brand new, had less than 2000 shots and immaculate. Although I use mainly Large Format 4x5 and digital D800, I will never part with the F5. Every time I pick it up it brings a grin to my face! Ted your presentations are interesting and your personality is very endearing. Thank you for all your efforts. 👍🏻
Hello Ted:I must tell you after shooting digital for the last ten years I've pulled out my old cameras and I am going through a rebirth with film Its like being 16 again and using my first camera from dad. Just holding my F and F2 is fun again I live how people look at me when I use my Leica m3 and they want to know why I shoot it. I have now moved into large format and loving it. To spend the evening processing film is magic for me and I have started giving some of my photos as gifts. So I wish you all the best in this new year. Happy shooting Thanks Jim
have you ever done an episode on the F4? looking into possibly getting an F4 or F5? I prefer the F4 but being persuaded to look into the F5??
You should check the video done by Samsung9alaxy for the Nikon F4. It pretty much covers everything.
+Max Lamdin The F4 is HUGE. weighs so much, not what you want from a film camera.
Cole Trudo since this comment I have bought one and love it haha I also work in a camera shop and we have an F5 which I have also tried but still prefer the F4 which feels equal in weight, I have considered the F100 as that is much lighter and if you want the higher frame rate or more AF points is a good way to go, but I am incredibly happy with the F4 and it's so reliable because it's built like a tank
Im picking up an f70 today i believe it was produced at the same time just the mid range consumer model. Any expiriences with that camera? I've seen mixed reviews but it was free with a lens!
There are great Old cameras out there that can still out perform any digital camera today. Nikon, Contax, Minolta XD, etc.. These cameras are works of art in there own right. As it would cost a fortune to build them today. And yes you need film and chemicals but thats the point. You get touch, Feel and interact with what it is your are doing. Something a flat screen and software can't teach you.
Great Stuff
The body of the Nikon F5 was used for the digital camera of Kodak DCS620.
Hi, I shoot with the f5 and love using it. I have no issues with it so would I be foolish to even think that the f6 is a great purchase?
Always wanted an F5 and now it's a must have. Can't wait wait for the series on this camera. Thanks for sharing 🍻
Nice review Ted, I look forward to the 2nd part. I've been using my F5 for a couple years now I guess and its become my go-to choice when shooting 35mm. I collect cameras, mostly 35mm "pro" gear from the 70's and 80's. I have Nikon, Canon, Olympus, Minolta, etc. available. I like a lot of em, love some of them, but the F5 is just so good at what it does. If I just want to be sure I get the shot, its the F5.
I purchased the F5 when it first came out. It has everything an outstanding film camera can offer, especially for sports, motor racing and wildlife. Rugged beyond belief. Yes, it is a “brick” to carry. Is comparable with all my Nikon glass.
I love the Nikon F5, but couldn't afford one back then, so I got a F100. which is a great baby F5 (at least in my terms)
I've been shooting this camera for 23 years. I love my F5 - heavy cameras were en vogue back in the day.
Have an F5 to go along with my D1x and D800. Rock solid camera, since I had been shooting on the D1x for a few years, the slight backwards step to the F5 was quite natural and easy. Love this camera.
The F5 is great, but I personally prefer the F100. Similar specs but lighter/smaller.
Just saw one in a thrift store for $50
ilyPenn23 I have both F5 and F100. F100 has better metering but not built well. I have nothing but problems with it.
ilyPenn23 So do I, smaller form factor was why I went for it.
+ilyPenn23
F100 = Great camera. It is my all time favorite.
But:
Eventually the F100 back will fail, the plastic tabs of the closing mechanism break because of plastic fatigue. Had it happen on both my F100. Finding replacement used to be quite easy, but is not anymore. 'Fresh' F100 is cheaper, but will probably suffer the same faith.
The F100 will disappear about 10 years after the last spare back has been put into service.
+Martin Koch F6 is probably the one to go for, obviously it's not cheap but the build quality, performance and size are all there in the F6.
My favorite 35mm camera! the F80 is also a fantastic camera.
F5 was released in 1996 not 1994. I have one and love it. The Canon Ae-1 is my second favorite film camera.
I love my F5, It's so much better than my Canon 1n RS in my own opinion. But the only down side for me on the F5 is the vertical grip, there's hardly anything to hold on to and im always accidentally tripping the shutter on it when im shooting in landscape.
What camera do you make your videos with?
It's bigger than your head!
After handling both, I eventually chose the F100 over the F5 because of the heft you describe and the features I don't think would impact on the way I shoot significantly (shit, I still use a Spotmatic and their awesome array of M42 lenses sometimes), build quality also feels the same (although I am aware of the spec differences such as the plastic door, I didn't personally notice them), but it's not a camera I could see myself using on a walkabout. I can use the MB-15 if and when I need it. I'm still going to get one (pristine as possible) at some point though when I have a bit of spare cash. Currently the F6 doesn't seem to be justifiable. My pipe dream is that when Nikon do ever decide to stop manufacturing film SLR's they might release a batch of something like an F7 with all the internal gubbins and metering points of the current flagship D models. If they still have the production lines running of course.
Maybe it won't happen, but I think it would be a good send off and testament to their 35mm legacy.
Odd that they didn't include a removable prism for the F6 though.
I just bought one today. I've had my F4 for a couple of years and have enjoyed my time with it, but I have huge hands and without the battery grip attachment, it's ok, but also annoying at times. Shoots great tho. I wanted to be able to use more modern lenses and have the front and back f stop & shutter speed control dials, making it easier to set up and get the shot.
I’m currently debating getting an F5. I have an F4. I love everything about it except the autofocus
Would you mind sharing your thoughts about the F4 vs F5?
Loved the video Ted! Would like to see some representation of Olympus addicts like me though. The OM1 and OM2 are great cameras (my OM2n is gorgeous), the OM10 is a lovely starter camera and they did some really interesting stuff with the PEN series. I'm currently on the hunt for a PEN-FT, the only half-frame SLR ever made...
Very versatile if you get the manual adapter for the shutter speed as well. The standard 50mm 1.8 is gorgeous, it was my first camera and I didn't realise how much that lens had spoiled me until I started buying others!
It's sad to see comments of a camera without being used to take photos :(
I still rememeber first time seeing Nikon F4 on the shelf,behind counter in the photo store "Lens@Shutter",Vancouver,Canada.I was stunt.This was almost like seeing first time Lotus Esprit or similar high performance car.Photography was just becoming my new hobby,but even then I knew,this is some serious tool (or instrument).
Yes,Canon EOS was modern auto focus system,but it was around for the few years already.
But,this F5 looks like today's modern digital SLR,sort of lioke D3X.
One think,i wish my D610 has,is mechanical mirror lock-up.When I shoot pictures for stitching in the panorama,why the mirror has to come down after pressing shutter?
Hi Sabrina, I had the AE-1 as well! Before that I was totally manual and it now stands me in good stead!
I love my f3 but always wanted to give the f5 a try
I paid $300 for a mint condition F5 just a few months ago. Impressive beast!
Awesome video, Ted! I really the film videos that you produce. Thanks for what you do. When I was looking for a 35mm film camera I considered the F5 but instead went with the F3HP.
I bought a copy of the f5 recently with an SB800 for use at work. Camera seems to work fine in general but I keep getting sync issues when shooting with a flash. Initially I thought I might have knocked the shutter dial above the sync speed but after shooting another test roll with the shutter set to 250X and locked I still got sync issues. Is this an issue with flash compatibility or is it an issue with the camera? There hasn't been any funny business when shooting the camera with natural light so I'm not incline to think the shutter is on\ the way out.
Is the option back button focusing available in the F5?
this was my dream camera when i was in high school. I have considered getting one now but the size and the 8 batteries (!) make me worry i wouldn't use it enough to justify the purchase. My N90s does almost everything the f5 does and only uses 4 batteries even with the verticle grip
Go buy it.
Hi, just one request...please adjust EQ to reduce high frequencies from the audio. It is really scratchy when you listen it using mobile headphones.
I have been considering the Nikon F5 for a long time! However, I have too many film cameras that seldomly expose film. I do have a similar camera called a Minolta Alpha 9. It is said to have been the inspiration for the Nikon F5. It still works superbly, albeit, the camera grip has disintegrated as well with my other Minolta camera bodies. Perhaps this Nikon will be better manufactured! Also, I would like to own prime Nikon glass for the F5. Now it’s a mater of finding the correct specimen and lens to go. Perhaps even a flash for her!
The F5 is actually more compact and lighter than most other cameras with their motordrives added.
i have one too, while its a great heavy beast, i still prefer my f3 for its simplicity
Last in line, probably the swan song for 35 mm photography.
Not quite. There is the F6.
Hi Ted. I have an FM2, thinking about picking up an FA. Anu opinion on thr body? It's just sick how cheap this stuff is on ebay.
Thanks for the video Ted. I'm interested in seeing what the between frame data imprint looks like from the MF-28. Is it readable without a loupe?
Oddly enough it didn't work. Rechecking the manual.
I love seeing old cameras like this! Hopefully we could see a Contax episode!
What a coincidence, I was watching your F3 video just last night.
Absolutely Awesome just saw this on Darryl Channel and agree did not like the date and time as well.Amazing blast from the past and truly a Beast.Thanks so much for sharing Deb 👍✌
does mirror lockup also stop down the aperture?
Does the battery grip come off?
Thanks for this informative video. I am a professional photographer that prefers to shoot film whenever it makes sense. I have an FE2, AF, F100, three (awesome - love them) Nikkormats, Big F, F4S, and six Nikon DSLRs, and am looking for the Nikon film camera with the best auto focus. Is there any difference between the AF of the F5 and the F6? And for that matter, is it better than the F100, which is pretty basic but effective?
There was a button for ISO? How did that work on a film camera?
The ISO is normally set by the DX encoding on the film cassette. The ISO button is used to override the automatic setting, or set the speed for non-coded film.
I clearly don't know how film works. =P I didn't realize that you can change the ISO of a roll of film.
+Eirik Havre You can choose to shoot film at higher than the rated speed (pushing) or lower (pulling), compensating for the exposure change during development. A roll is shot at a single ISO; when shooting film it can't be changed frame to frame.
@@just_eirik you can’t, it tricks the camera into thinking the film is a different speed so it meters differently
you're a very lucky man Ted, great pro film camera! but i do agree with you about the F3, never shot it but from what ive seen (mostly from you) its a beauty! have you ever thought about doing an interview or loan kinda deal with Denton Camera Exchange?
Max Lamdin I haven't been up there yet - I should check them out!
The Art of Photography do you possibly follow them on instagram? thats the only thing i know them through? well im in England but it would definitely be a priority stop for me if i ever come over to the states
Hi ted how about the Japanese made contaxes made by yasica the even made the prodious planar Lena regards
Are you based out of the Austin area?
If only there was a camera which had automatic programmable bracketing which could be triggered by one shutter button. An in built reciprocity calculator which could be upgraded to different film profiles with a simple firmware update along with all these features I just wouldn't be able to find a point to shoot digital. All I would ever want from the photography experience would be simply tangible within one workhorse.
question is, how many megapixels is ASA 100 film?
Is high speed sync possible with the f5? Or will I have to stick with regular flash with an nd filter?
1/250
Ken Davies I know that’s what the specs say but “what if I put a high speed sync transmitter on the hotshoe?” is what I meant
I still shoot with the Nikon F my uncle purchased new in 1964. If you were to do a video on this camera, it would be about 2 minutes.
I love my F5! It's my go to film camera if I'm not going for a particular look/format that would be better accomplished by another camera.
Hello,.. where is the part two ???
Glad you posted this! I'm organising a roadtrip and I want to take an F5 along - going to see it now!
Did Canon have an equivalent which took ef lenses?
Tod Davis Closest would be the Canon 1V, I think. I have that and its a great camera.
I have a Nikon F5 and love it! Slides always comes out beautiful with this camera, but i agree, its a workout walking around with it.
never understood really expensive film cameras, especially now in 2017. the way i see it is that it still shoots film, the type of film is what matters, your glass and skills as a photographer. what justifys the price?
Joshua Graham the F5 makes perfect sense for someone who wants the ultimate 35mm camera, the F5's light meter is amazingly good, you can use modern Nikon lenses on them, and they are absolutely bulletproof, it makes sense because it allows you to do things you simply can't do with 95% of film cameras.
Beautiful camera. Nice review Ted!
What I want to know is, the body is made of steel, magnesium alloy, or aluminum? I found out that for example the Leica R8 is aluminum, that was a total let down.
Magnesium
Enjoyed this video, would've enjoyed it even more a year ago when I was buying one! Loving the F5 because it plays well with the modern lenses and is very similar to the D3/D4, and it does everything you could possibly ask. Looking forward to the metadata part!
Had mine since 1997. Great film camera.
Total overkill for shooting 35mm ! : ) Looks heavier than my Pentax 67 with all those batteries.
Most people shooting film today appreciate the simplicity and slow pace of film photography. I would take an FM3a/FE2 over the F5/ F6 anyday. But I bet this beast was an amazing workhorse back in the day, specially for sports, wildlife, studio etc
Can we find a digital converter for the Nikon F5
Do you mean like some kind of modular digital back? I don't even know how they'd do that. It would be a bit pointless though, the metering specs of the F5 have been superseded and incorporated long ago by D models. The point is, if you want your images to look like film, shoot on film.
I'm not one for 'film presets', they always look like digital images (nothing wrong with that, I love digital just as much) but nothing is going to replicate the look of certain processes (especially slide films). When I look up examples of film stock that's either been pushed or pulled, I can tell just by the scanned Google image results in the thumbnails that all they've done is up or lower the saturation and the contrast for a 'Pushed' or 'Pulled' look. Inevitably it's some VSCO setting or other.
I miss Cibachrome/Ilfochrome. Nothing currently beats the look of those prints. Shame it's been thrown under the bus in only the last ten years. I don't see why certain photographers eschew one medium for the other if they truly love the art form. They should exist side by side. Early adopters and obsessed tech heads think otherwise.
I'd never say to someone who uses oil paints/watercolours/pencil/charcoal etc to use Adobe Paint or Draw to imitate those mediums. That's not me at work, that's some guy creating an algorithm with the click of a mouse in an office somewhere else.
What lens do you use most on your F3? Can't wait to see your scans from F5
Great camera! Its light meter is way much better than any modern DSLR, in my opinion.
The last film camera I used was the F4. Great review!
Great camera. I own three F-5's. Solidly built.
For me the F5 was the begging of Nikon disposable cameras.
This is a great tech review. Thank you. 😀
What lens is on that??
Looks like the AF-S Nikkor 50mm F/1.4 G lens.
Does f5 work with ais lenses?
there's a chart of all lenses supported, as well as metering modes and some limitations - go google for an F5 manual and download it. The one I just looked at these were around page 125. Almost all lens options at the time of its release were supported to one degree or another. One thing was having a matte screen in it to use some of the lenses because they didn't all do the electronic stuff...
Nice video Ted!
I should really go back to shooting film every once in a while
Working in a darkroom beats sitting on a computer anyday
Love this video, especially since it covers the F5. I may be in the market for one. Also digging the Casey Neistat vibe of the video editing ;)
Very cool! I really want one now! :)) waiting for the next video on this. :)
Hey guys, is it worth switching from F100 to F5? Which one got better metering?
Does anyone know if the F5 has back button focusing? Thank you!
+Karla Lacher It does. It has a dedicated AF-On button on the back by the thumb, and you can disable the shutter AF using the custom menus.