Nikon FA 35mm Film Camera
The Nikon FA is a film camera from Nikon — known for its Nikon F Lens Mount and Multi-Pattern Metering (AMP). Used copies start from $171.04 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon FA 35mm Film Camera
Used Nikon FA Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Nikon FA
Key Features — Nikon FA
Nikon F Lens Mount: Compatible with a vast range of Nikon F-mount lenses spanning decades of production, making it easy to build out a system or use glass you already own.
Multi-Pattern Metering (AMP): The FA was the first camera to feature Nikon's Advanced Matrix (AMP) metering system, which analyzes the scene across multiple zones for more accurate automatic exposure.
ISO 12–3200 Range: Supports a wide variety of 35mm film stocks, from ultra-fine-grain slow emulsions to fast films suited for lower-light conditions.
Standard 35mm Frame: Captures full 36mm × 24mm frames on standard 35mm film, the same format used in professional analog photography for decades.
TTL Flash Metering: Through-the-lens flash metering with a standard hot shoe and 1/250s sync speed ensures accurate flash exposure with compatible Nikon dedicated flash units.
Multiple Exposure Modes: Offers Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual modes, giving photographers full control over exposure in a variety of shooting situations.
Camera Specifications — Nikon FA
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel, Beginner-Friendly |
| Type | Film |
| ISO Range | 12 – 3200 |
| AF System | Manual Focus Only |
| Max Photo Resolution | 36mm × 24mm (standard 35mm) |
| Battery | 2x LR44 or SR44, or 1x 3V CR 1/3N |
| Weather Sealing | None |
| Dimensions | 92 × 142.5 × 64.5 mm |
| Weight | 625g |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Hot Shoe | Nikon Standard (iTTL) |
| Flash System | TTL Flash Metering |
Description — Nikon FA
The Nikon FA is a 35mm film SLR camera built around the Nikon F lens mount, making it a natural fit for photographers already invested in the Nikon ecosystem. It captures images on the standard 36mm × 24mm film frame and accommodates an ISO range of 12 to 3200, covering everything from slow, fine-grained daylight films to faster emulsions for more demanding lighting conditions. The camera's hot shoe delivers TTL flash metering at a sync speed of 1/250s, supporting dedicated flash photography.
Focusing is a manual affair, using a rangefinder-style system that puts full creative control in the photographer's hands. The FA is powered by 2x LR44 or SR44 batteries, or a single 3V CR 1/3N — all widely available options. Weighing in at 625g with dimensions of 92 × 142.5 × 64.5mm, the body is sturdy and well-proportioned.
For film photographers looking for a capable Nikon F-mount body with a broad ISO range and TTL flash support, the FA presents a straightforward and functional option.
Pros — Nikon FA
- ✓Wide ISO range of 12–3200 accommodates a broad selection of film stocks
- ✓Nikon F lens mount provides compatibility with a large family of Nikon-mount lenses
- ✓TTL flash metering with 1/250s hot shoe sync for dedicated flash use
Cons — Nikon FA
- ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus system beyond rangefinder-style manual operation
- ✗No weather sealing noted in specifications
- ✗No in-body image stabilization
Reviews — Nikon FA
Videos — Nikon FA
Frequently Asked Questions — Nikon FA
What lenses are compatible with the Nikon FA?+
The Nikon FA uses the Nikon F lens mount, which is one of the most widely adopted lens mounts in photography history. This gives users access to a large range of Nikon F-compatible lenses.
What batteries does the Nikon FA require?+
The Nikon FA runs on either 2x LR44 or SR44 batteries, or alternatively a single 3V CR 1/3N battery. These are widely available battery types, making the camera practical to maintain.
What ISO range does the Nikon FA support?+
The Nikon FA supports an ISO range from 12 to 3200. This covers a wide spectrum of 35mm film stocks, from very slow and fine-grained emulsions to fast films intended for low-light conditions.
Does the Nikon FA support flash?+
Yes, the Nikon FA features a hot shoe with TTL flash metering and a sync speed of 1/250s. This allows use of dedicated TTL-compatible flash units.
What is the frame size produced by the Nikon FA?+
The Nikon FA produces the standard 35mm film frame size of 36mm × 24mm. This is the classic full 35mm frame format.
How heavy is the Nikon FA and what are its dimensions?+
The Nikon FA weighs 625g and measures 92 × 142.5 × 64.5mm. This gives it a substantial, well-balanced feel typical of SLR-style film cameras.