Getting Into Nikon. Shooting a forgotten Classic Nikon Film SLR from the 1980s.

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In this video I take out a classic Nikon Film SLR Camera from 1986. This is a camera I hardly see on the used market unless you search for it by name but it's used price is so cheap compared to the "flagship" Nikon cameras but does it take as good pictures? It has all the functions you need for a camera of it's day, but why is it less desirable than the sort after F3, F6, FM ranges?
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Camera Featured - Nikon F-501
Film Used - Fuji Acros II
Developer - D23.
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Editing - FCP, PHOTOSHOP, LIGHTROOM,
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[@davidrothstein3661]

You are entirely right about the performance of this camera and the results you can get. In the states this model is N2020. The model before it was the N2000. The latter was my first serious Nikon, bought new in 1984. I prefer the N2000 because it is manual focus although I have both. On the other hand it's easy to turn off the very nervous AF on the 2020 and it gives you an in focus indicator in the view finder. If you intend to buy either of these be certain (in fact INSIST) on seeing a photo of the battery chamber with the inner tray removed--the chamber can look clean but the worst corrosion is underneath the tray which requires removing seven screws to inspect--or have the seller agree to accept a return if you find it has problems. The weakest part of these cameras is the battery circuitry--it's very susceptible to corrosion, even the smallest amount. The circuitry from the camera to the battery chamber is very thin plastic with the conducting material bonded to it and any corrosion will destroy it. Once corroded it is virtually impossible to repair because of the characteristics of that material--no wires that are easily replaced, just the thin tape. This is a problem in at least half of these cameras that I've seen. Typically these have been in someone's closet for many years and very commonly people didn't take the batteries out and forgot about them. If you seen any hint of green fuzzy material pass on it. When you get one with a healthy battery chamber and everything else works, you've got a great camera for a pittance.

[@peterwilliamson2488]

I have a Nikon F801s,that I paid £640 for in 1994 ,still going strong.I used to shoot colour slides and it was said that ,the extra coverage that you couldn’t see in the viewfinder was covered up by the slide mount.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thats correct with colour slides.

[@ianboard544]

If you want vintage Nikon, just get an F3. IMO the best 35mm manual focus SLR ever made. If you wear glasses, get the 'HP' variant - one of the best viewfinders ever.

[@moustachio334]

Needs more likes. Best MF camera and same can be said for any of the FMs.

[@thevoiceman6192]

I am still strictly a canon film camera lover. However. My uncle gave me all his film stuff after going digital. He gave me a Nikon FE2. It was a great camera. Now the mirror gets stuck and the shutter speed dial needs to be fixed. All of the shutter speeds are off. So it is a shelf king now. I used to help promots a second sunday camera show here in the states. So the owners paid me in cameras and film. There was a vendor who had 5 dollar tables. So I bought Canon eos auto and Nikon auto bodies . N9o and n90s, N2020, They worked after I put batteries in them. Sometimes it was 2 for $5 The owners passed and the end of the camera shows after that.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Some bargains there!

[@RonalParme]

NO, NO quick remove this video! This will make the prices skyrocket once everyone realizes how great these cameras are. I have the F90s and F80, love them!

[@mikesmith-po8nd]

It's kind of a mixed blessing. On the one hand, all of the hipsters using film keeps the manufacturers in business, which is good for everyone. On the other hand, it also drives prices up. (Although I have noticed that prices seem to have peaked, and in some cases are starting to come back down.)

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

ha ha, if it helps those on a budget... for now.

[@raygeary1698]

I have 5 rangefinder s and 8 old film SLRs. I go out with film more now than my Fuji x pro 2 😂

[@mikesmith-po8nd]

@raygeary1698, keep up the good work!

[@miguelwaterhouse1551]

Still have the F100 and love it

[@jdebultra]

I had one. The 92% VF drove me insane. Then the intermittent frame skipping, usually 2 or 3 about 3 quarters in. I dumped it but I only paid $25 for it. I'm a F2 guy.

[@inikphoto]

I had a 301 and then upgraded to 501 in early nineties and I loved it!

[@RicardoRMedina]

The Nikon F501 was the N2020 in the United States. Great camera!

[@rawalker666]

the spinny thing on the back helps when rewinding the film its stops when the leader passes it so watch as you rewind the film as soon as it stops stop rewinding and your leader is still out for easier self developing

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Another good comment on the spinner thing, Cheers. They soon done away with the idea.

[@TeddyCavachon]

When I’m feeling nostalgic I break out the Nikonos II underwater camera I used in 1969 after learning to SCUBA dive and Nikon F with 35mm f/2 and 85mm f/1.8 I used in the 70s for photojournalism and the Nikonos V I used in the 80s and the 90s. The Nikon F has a completely removable film back which created the dilemma of what to do with it when changing film in the field. The ‘pro’ trick was to hold the camera by the lens in the left hand with the pinkie finger holding the back while changing the film with the right. I also had a NikonFtn which was the metering head and why older lenses have that little notched tab on the aperture ring. A lever from meter head fit into it so the meter knew what aperture was being used. I carried two camera, one over each shoulder, with both ends of the strap connected to a ring on the right side of the camera so they would hang lens down. I’d have the 35mm on one and the 85mm on the other, with Tri-X in one and Kodachrome in the other. I used a Honeywell/Pentax 1° meter for exposure and measuring range of scene so I’d know in advance what grade paper I’d need for the B&W and to precisely meter highlights for the Kodachrome .

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I had to Google that Nikonos camera! Never seen that before. Interesting reading your comment. Thanks.

[@TheZunis]

I found the F90X to be such a reliable workhorse of a camera I decided to purchase a second one last year.

[@22fret]

Hardcore Pentaxian here but I've always had a soft spot for the FM2 and the F3. Great cameras, obviously...

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

17?

[@22fret]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss I'm not quite sure about HF, but I quite like the fact that the guys at Pentax have finally created something to write home about, even though it is a niche product. I am really looking forward to what might come next...

[@mikesmith-po8nd]

@22fret, I agree on all. The 17 is too pricey for what it is, but any new film camera is a good thing.

[@steveh1273]

I've followed your channel for a long time and seen your progress in film technique and knowledge. i think you have one of the best photography centric channels on KZbin, thank you for your effort, it shows. Looking forward to more.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks Steve.

[@evanduffy1015]

The N2020 (american F501) was my first Nikon! Its a fantastic camera and it started me down the Nikon lens compatibility rabbit hole. I got it for free from a friend who found it covered in dirt in someone's attic, cleaned it up and its worked with zero problems for the past 2 years or so

[@lensman5762]

Talking about Nikon, a few weeks ago I bought a Nikon F5 which appears to have been hardly used. People go on about how heavy it is and this and that. I find it a joy to use and it helps balance the heavy lenses that I have. Since I got it, I find it difficult to go bak to my F80 or even F100. They decidedly feel less well built than the F5. Nikon is a Nikon and as far as Japanese Pro cameras are concerned, nothing comes close a Pro Nikon.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Enjoy that F5 Lensman!

[@lensman5762]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss I am Rog, thanks. Not as much the Leicas or even that old Russian FED-2, but its nice to have a film camera that just works like a good digital. Sometimes a little convenience is not a bad thing.

[@joerg_koeln]

And the F5 is ideal for your daily workout and an impressive biceps. 🤣

[@lensman5762]

@@joerg_koeln Particularly when i mount the Sigma 24~105 F4 on it.

[@Arturo.H.M]

Don't forget the sister, the F-301. It's the same camera but without AF.

[@RussellEaling]

Spookily timed video Roger, I have just purchased a F501 a couple of days ago for the princely sum of £54, including a lens.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Boom!

[@Nuka_Gaming]

Hey Roger just wanted to let you that I received the print that I ordered and that I thank you for you for including the second one with it. And to say youre welcome. I also wanted to let you know that I thank you for providing the content make and ive said it before in another comment, but for also inspiring me to shoot in black and white as well as film. I have developed 12 rolls of B&W film since I started watching your channel a few months ago. Ive got more to shoot and I'm trying out ACROS II at the moment. So once again, thank you for providing such great content and keep up the good work. Ill be purchasing more prints from you, and I would like to send you a few prints of mine both digital and film (no dark room prints though... yet) of some of my favorite shots

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks! I'm glad you like them! Watch out for that acros. It's a contrast beast! But great film. Enjoy!!

[@Lawman212]

A quick tip about depth of field preview. Hit the lens release, turn the lens slightly. You've disengaged the lens from the auto-indexing system. Then by turning the f stop ring, you'll see the depth of field of whatever aperture you're curious about.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

😂 Brilliant! I never thought of that.

[@rockartistet]

Same trick I use . Also used it on my Pentax me super. Don’t over do the turning as you will end up removing the lens

[@odukar2315]

Hi Roger, nice comments on the Nikon 501. Yes, indeed a great, but underestimated camera. There are a lot of good Nikon cameras out there. Very cheap to get, but really great is the Nikon 801s. Robust, professional, and not as heavy as the F90 or F90x. People looking for the great F100, but don't like the price should search for a F80, the little sister of the F100.

[@northof-62]

I agree with you on the F-80. But please be careful with putting your F-801 down on rough surfaces. The bottom plate is very prone to breakage, esp. on the corners. I was lucky and found a replacment, (but that changed the serial number) :D Cheers!

[@rhodriwilliams2891]

Still happily using my F301 - there’s something satisfying about manual focus with a split image circle… probably even cheaper than the 501 and no af motor to worry about 😊

[@qvisionstudios]

The F90x was my first Nikon. Bought in the early 80's, it took me through University, made money in product photography after graduation, built many memories with family shots. Still have it. You've inspired me to take the old girl out and run a roll or two through her. Thanks!

[@Roman.7287]

I don't want to be a smartass, but the F90x came out in 1994. Great semi-professional camera that many people don't have on their radar. can only recommend the F90x.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I imagine he meant early 90s. I get the same confusion with 2000's and 2010's! ha ha I still think 2004 was 20 years ago! Can't uninstall it either.

[@Roman.7287]

​@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss Yes, you will be right. It's crazy how quickly time flies. thank you for your great channel. Excellent contributions to analog photography. I really enjoy watching it.

[@qvisionstudios]

@Roman.7287 Holy crap! You're right. My memory is a muddled mess! I did dig out the Camera yesterday along with a 50mm f1.4 and a 20mm f2.8. Fresh set of batteries in and it was like old times again. Seals seem good. Just need to pick up some fresh film.

[@Roman.7287]

​@@qvisionstudiosHave fun with the F90x. Really great Nikon and robust workmanship. 1/8000 shutter speed and interchangeable focusing screen. You only need 4 normal AA batteries or rechargeable batteries and no expensive special batteries. If the back is a little sticky, which is not uncommon, you can fix this with alcohol or nail polish remover. Some recommend baby powder, but I wouldn't recommend that. So get some film and put the good thing back into operation. Many warm greetings from Munich.

[@AndreyPermitin]

I had this gem, a fantastic camera. huge viewfinder, perfect grip and weight, sold it eventually as I moved to canon, regret it still. The most perfect camera to ever fit my hand, besides Nikon d200.

[@herrerafoto]

I loved Nikons since the 80's until I became digital in 2000. Canon was doing a better job with their digital bodies then. I switched with the 10D and sold my D1, D1x at a huge loss. I still love my Nikon film cameras and I own quite a few. I really dig your video editing skills! Good job!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Canon held close to the videographers heart when the 5D mk2 came out. Canon had best of both arts for years until Sony came on strong.

[@davidottman9501]

It's fun to see your shots, and especially the interesting places you go to get them. Paraphrasing what you just said, the camera is just a dark box with a hole in it... Some may have conveniences or features we like, and that makes us happier to use them. The lens might make a difference in the image but just like in driving, the biggest factor is the nut behind the wheel. Awesome work!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Cheers David. Of course, as I mentioned the F6 being for 'professionals' having more features.

[@ludovicbon5903]

A friend of my father gave me his N2020 2 years ago, with a 50/1.8 and a 70-210/4 in mint condition . At first, I was doubtful about the AF, but finally, it does the job . Despite the lack of DoF preview and spot metering, it's a good camera, well made, and it's finally always in my backpack .

[@georgeosier5459]

i have a F4 , several Nikkormats and a N2000 ... all of them take great pics ...LOVE NIKON FILM CAMERAS !!

[@cnicolo]

Thank you Roger … I’m a Nikon user F3 … amazing one. Great video 🍻

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks for watching.

[@AnalogFramecraft]

I like Nikon cameras very much. I have F75, D90 and D7100.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

The D90, I had the D80 once. The D90 shot video if I remember.

[@tcstu90]

I had purchased the non-AF version, N2000 in the US, new back in 1986. Used it through out college. Great memories with it. Thanks for sharing your experience with the F-501.

[@renee-claudetanguay9738]

Nikon has always been my favourite film cameras, even my first digital was a Nikon, then went to mirrorless. I have an FM and love it, it now goes with me wherever I go.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I have a mirrorless Nikon and have a convertor for the F lenses. Not the expensive Nikon converter. Works well though and focusing is no problem with focus peeking.

[@msentinel01]

I owned one and had it from 1990-2006. At the time I purchased it second hand and it was already "ancient" as the F601& F801were already out as backups to the professional-grade, F4. The F-501 was meant to be an introduction to autofocus back in the day. It was the AF version of the F-301 which had a similar form factor but without AF capability. A few caveats to take note: ONE is that the film rewind crank is made of plastic which I actually broke during one assignment. Back then we had to be really quick when rewinding and reloading. TWO: the tripod socket is way toward the left. This was designed to accommodate the battery chamber and there was a tripod plate which was meant to "center" the camera when used on a tripod. This plate was also used on the F-3 when attached to a motor drive which reminds me, we never called it "burst rate" back then. It was simply, "FPS". THREE, the AF function of this camera is HORRIBLE & UNRELIABLE being the first Nikon to have an "AF" function. (Btw, there was also a Nikon F-3 AF). For this camera to focus correctly, it needed a vertical array so if there were only horizontal lines in the composition, you will never get a shot especially when using "Single-servo AF" but, if you used the camera with an AF Speedlite like the SB-23/24, the camera will focus in very low light conditions. BONUS TIP: if you master how to load this camera, you will be able to squeeze at least 2-3 extra frames from either a 24 or 36-exposure film cassette.

[@msentinel01]

In addition, the frame rate will go faster when you use all-mechanical, manual focus NIKKOR lenses and Manual exposure mode!

[@telstarradio7974]

I started out with my dad’s old Nikon EM, pretty basic SLR but it gave me the Nikon bug.

[@filmismorefun]

The EM was my first film camera as well and I still love shooting with it.

[@TupperAlf]

Really nice video - lot of good memories of that camera!

[@kencarnley7101]

I have never heard of this model. Enjoyed the video and I have no plans to purchase one. My collection includes a Nikkormat I purchased new in 1972, a F, F2, F4 and a beautiful S2. Keep up the good work!

[@drewharry88]

You also forgot the BEST F-series camera... the FA... the freakin first digital man.. cmon! I think my FA may be one of the cleanest and nicest Ive ever seen and Im so proud to own it..

[@GonzoTheRosarian]

I have an FA and I love it! The best Nikon SLR I have ever owned, however, is till the first, the Nikon F, I loved that tank of a camera. I just acquired a F90x because I could not pass up the deal with all that came bundled with it and the camera looks as good as new with data back, winder, lenses,etc.

[@leonarddaneman810]

The F801 was the 8008S in the U.S. Market. Back in the 80's there was a metering 'zone war' between Canon and Nikon, the battle involved increasing the number of metering 'segments' . . . the 8008s was the last version before the N90 replaced it to become the prosumer star in the Nikon lineup. I preferred the 8008s (s for spotmeter) because it was smaller than the 90s.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

And then came the Pixels war

[@danem2215]

I bought its cousin, the N2000 (F-301) for $20 and quite enjoyed it. I was devastated when I stuck a lens on it the wrong way and couldn't for the life of me detach it. It's still stuck on there, stuffed in my ever-growing repair box

[@mattdyer9544]

I bought a f-301 that was cheap for this very reason. In my case the extra pin above the lens locking pin (at maybe the 2:30 position on the lens mount if you look at a photo from it online) had fallen into the slot of the lens meant for the locking pin. A small feeler guage (or I think I used an old tape measure?) was used to slide in and depress the pin. Turned counter-clockwise and camera right off.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thats common I think Dane! Even I have done it a few times, luckily jiggled them off again!

[@Floydwellian]

I bought a used Nikkormat FT-2 with three lenses and a bounce flash in 1989 for $80. No bells or whistles but it still works perfectly to this day. Weighs a ton.

[@hansjzeller]

Thanks! This brought back some nice memories. I used the manual focus version, the F-301, for fourteen years (1990-2004) and was very happy with it. It never gave me any trouble. Two thoughts I had when I saw this video: If you plan to use manual focus, the F-301 might be worth considering, because it has very useful focusing aids, the split circle and the micro-prism ring. I had to think for quite a while to come up with something I didn't like with this camera. Then I remembered one thing: The tripod mount is not good. It's way off-center and doesn't provide a lot of grip. I loved this camera and still use it once in a while. The batteries last for a long time.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

ha ha I didn't mention the tripod thread position but totally agree I find that position uncomfortable.

[@kdj.imagery4317]

Hey, you forgot too mention that classic '80s shutter sound! I used too shoot with a Canon Elan 7NE, I enjoyed it very much in fact it was the last SLR I owned before switching over to a DSLR. Cheers!

[@NigelHuddart]

Undoubtedly a pioneering camera back in its day. It's also one of the few Nikon cameras that can autofocus with the 80mm f2.8 and 200mm f3.5 lenses for the old F3-AF.

[@Wannes_]

05:30 The spinning striped indicator is also on the F301 I always thought it was used to see if new film was properly loaded and advancing

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Apparently thats true! Someone else cleared that up. I never even noticed it loading film!

[@carltanner9065]

Got a F501...love it! Does everything I need it to do, so it suits me.

[@cangooner]

Back in the 80s, teen-aged me traded in my first ever "real" camera, a Pentax MV, for a Nikon N2000 (the North-American non-AF version of this camera, AKA the F301). It was like my Nikon gateway drug. :) I traded it in and picked up an F3 in 1990, but after jumping back into film photography last year and playing around with a bunch of different cameras, I had a nostalgic want to get another N2000. Just for old times sake. So I bought one more or less sight-unseen from an online thrift store for next to nothing, and it arrived with a messed up shutter. So, not having learned that lesson, I bought another even cheaper one from an ebay seller who didn't know the first thing about cameras. And it arrived with a messed up shutter. Both were physically damaged, not an electronic problem. I expected the third one to burn down, fall over, then sink into the swamp with a messed up shutter, but it was all good. Had a blast shooting with it and taking a trip down memory lane, so I have since also picked up an N2020 (the North American version of the F501) and have been having fun with it too. So if I can offer one piece of advice to folks looking at either the F501 or F301 (or N2020/N2000), take a moment to confirm that the shutter is good. Then enjoy.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Unfortunately too many ebayers are attic hunters and know nothing about cameras so this sort of thing happens! My first SLR was the Dynax. As you did, just for nostalgia, I got one for £25 on ebay. Worked fine! Had my fun with it and then gave it to a friend.

[@HippieMagic]

I love my FMs and FM3As I have one that is well worn and one that is like new in each just in case haha

[@yeungsaufat2566]

FM2 is my most favorite.

[@HippieMagic]

@@yeungsaufat2566 I was going to get an FM2 initially, but the price was outrageous. I ended up with an FM with character and a mint FM which I believe is the original version, it’s the one that works with the advance lever closed completely. Both of them together cost about $75 less than a beat up FM2. Then I just bought the FM3As because they are the cameras I wanted bad when I was in HS 😂

[@janb.5579]

Is there any F601 where the back latches are _not_ broken? :D These are quite easily repaired, by the way, no need to swap them out. All you need is a piece of metal sheet like from a jar lid, fold it over two or three times to get an new hook and then glue it on what remains of the original. I have repaired two of these this way. The F501 is still missing from my little Nikon collection but I guess after this video comes out prices will go up for a while. ;-) Does anyone have experience with the 180mm Nikkors with and without the ED glass in it? The older P Nikkors are way cheaper and will probably take more vintage-y photos, I guess? Has anyone ever done a side-by-side comparison?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Hands on, well done. a broken 601 Cost me £5! Fixed. I'll remember that though if it goes again and no more broken ones available.

[@davidgifford8112]

While I have a Nikon FM and a F801 (got it new, back in the day). Both are a joy to use, both work as well as the day they were made. The other delight of the F system is the lens compatibility from 1959 to by new today. In 35mm Nikon is incomparable, except for Leica which due to the “collectible” nature makes them from a different world.

[@mike747436]

I shot with a Nikon F3 all thru the 80s and have some of my favourite pics from it, but when I picked up my first F4 in 1989 there was no going back. I’m fortunate enough to own many film cameras, but I will always have an F4.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Glad I remembered it!

[@jamielikescoffee]

I've had a few Nikons from the 90s and 00s. I loved the F80, an advanced amateur camera that if you can get one without a sticky back is a great little light camera that handles like a DSLR. As you said, photos from this are identical as those from an F6 or whatever Nikon, if you use the same lens and film stock. Keep up the good work.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

That sticky back! Arggh. The F90x had same problem. I wiped mine off with rubbing alcohol.

[@jamielikescoffee]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss yeah it's not so hard to fix in the end at least

[@travelswith...]

Evening Roger, Great Vlog again & championing some under valued / under the radar cameras... Albeit you've probably put the price up of them now 🫣😂👍🏻... I have a Nikon F801 & F80 & I love that they are so easy to use & reasonable a lightweight option especially the F80 & alike... Plus they are take decent photos with Nikon F Glass... Keep The Great Vlogs Cheers David 👌🏻

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks David.

[@travelswith...]

Afternoon Roger, further to my other comment... its like magic you post a vlog on underrated Nikon camera's & I get a message from Ebay which leads me to a Nikon F55 camera (a camera the talented Steve O'Nions uses as a lightweight hiking camera) for a bargain price... I couldn't resist to puchased it so bargains are out there as you say... 👌🏻. All The Best David

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Enjoy!

[@ianlainchbury]

Inspirational as usual! I love the way you talk through composition. I really struggle at the moment with this, and really don't want to just take snaps. Thanks

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I'm bringing an ebook out soon on my compositions. Look out for it.

[@ianlainchbury]

​@@ShootFilmLikeaBossWil do! :)

[@jph364]

F70 is a sleeper too, quirky but with a built in spotmeter and 1/3 stops in shutter speed. Excellent for zone system use

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Under £50!

[@EgoundderRest]

Ich habe noch eine NIKON FG mit Motor, zwei F 301, eine F 801s, eine F 90x mit Datenrückwand und eine F 5 im Schrank. Grundsätzlich alle voll funktionsfähig.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Nice!

[@davidjosephs6476]

I love my 301 and I think I am the only one as they go for for peanuts manual focus but every thing else I’ve lots of cameras but I keep reaching for the Nikon 301 leaving the FE2 at home

[@catey62]

I picked up a Nikon F-601 at a camera fair here in South Australia where I live. paid 10$ with the lens, the guy selling it bascially gave me the camera with the lens for that, and I put some batteries in it, and have been using it since, great little cam, that didnt break the bank. I also have an FG20 I picked up at a local pawn shop for about 30$, another great little camera. there are others I have, all those from Nikon F, F2, F3, F4E, F80, FE, EL Nikkormats, FT and FT2.

[@f1remandg]

Very good video and sound advice with good photos like the angled filter rich.

[@Chris-NZ]

I still have a pair in full working order F301’s with their built in power winder from the mid 80’s, never been able to part with them . 😀

[@nevillewatkins4997]

I already have the 301, which I love, and recently picked up its big brother, the 501. Much the same, of course. I enjoy using them both. I did find that the autofocus on the 501 was a bit hit and miss at times. But other than that I really rate it.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

It was the first AF system I believe.

[@mihailovelickovic2747]

I have f501 with Nikkor 35-70 lens, I bought it in mint condition for around 40 euro. Great camera, I'm very satisfied with it.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Good to hear!

[@mrstandfast2212]

I've got a F601, and it's great. 25 years ago, I bought two from the local police scenes of crime office would you believe. They sold off their film cameras when they went over to digital. Just the bodies, both hardly used and both dirt cheap. Sold one body to my local camera shop for more than I paid for both. The shop owner still was able to makes a decent profit as well. My copy still works well, and as you point out, it's the lenses which make the image. Interesting that you mention the Canon EOS 3000N with a 28 - 80mm lens. I just bought one for £10 at a charity shop. The first roll came out well, and it's not as flimsy as it looks or feels.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

The canon works well. I remember a forensic worker showed me her cameras back in the early 2000s' A case full of lenses, flashes and a Silver Pentax if I remember.

[@Resgerr]

Although I'm a Canon girl I do have a FM2, F801 and F90x. Picked up a D70 and a J1😂. The FM2 was the dearest over £200 , the cheapest F801 at £15😊and have a Nikon light touch point and shoot and a L35AF TW( cheap)

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thats 801 was cheap!

[@Resgerr]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss yes it was- just a bit of battery corrosion and the battery door is loose but it works perfectly

[@garychatfield6709]

Good video Roger.. Maybe make this a thing by reviewing different types of cameras from the old days lol

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

And show a bit of the IOW too! Great idea.

[@garyg3]

I have this and I love it!

[@Blackmind0]

i own the F301, a fm3a both in use....had F80 and F90x.......great cameras greets BM

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks for sharing

[@mattwhitehall9536]

I shoot on film mainly with my F90 or my F90x but I have an F401 that is superb and what’s more I got it for £40 with 2 lenses and a 2 hour round trip.

[@d.r.martin6301]

I owned a number of classic Nikons over the years, beginning with the FTn. Later on, FM, FM2, FE2, FG, EM, Nikkormat. All I have now are the 8008s and the D200. I'd use the 8008s more, but film/processing is so damn costly these days.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

The F-801 here. Nice.

[@moustachio334]

Bought a Nikon FG for $20 with the e 50mm. Was a fantastic camera

[@Francois_L_7933]

I know that those third party lenses are often gems. I now hunt for them as they will sometimes give you results that the super corrected Nikon optics can't give you.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

That Sigma has been a good lens.

[@mikesmith-po8nd]

The third party lenses often vary in quality, even from the same manufacturer. As a rule however, Sigma, Tokina, and Vivitar are close, and sometimes equal, to OEM quality. I saw a British photography channel (Zenography, I believe) talking about Miranda lenses. Supposedly very nice. So now I'm on the lookout for one. Although that may take a while on this side of the pond.

[@rappler32]

This era of cameras are definitely sleepers in the Nikon line. As unabashed collector scum myself, I've got copies of the N90s, N8008s (n boobs!), and N6006. The N90s and N8008s have a metal door latch which is something that later models like the F100 could have benefited from. The N6006 has both an integral flash and threaded cable shutter release. The grips in this series aren't as deep as subsequent models but I do like their distinguishing smooth finish.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

N Boobs! 😂

[@tomislavmiletic_]

It's weird... back in the day, as a young professional, I wanted to dip my toes into autofocus, course focussing late at night (especially if you've been drinking) was hard. I already had some Nikkor AF lenses, so naturally I wanted the F90x. But that thing was EXPENSIVE. Not so much as F4, but still. 2500 German marks body only to be exact. So I've bit the bullet, and the idiot that I am, I sold all my Nikon stuff, and bought similar Canon model (EOS5 - still have it), with several lenses, for way less money. Canon was that much cheaper. Funny to see both of those cameras today hoovering about $100 each... By the way, yes, Nikon F301 was a backup to my FM2...

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

As long as the Canon did the job Tom.

[@DSP16569]

MY first Nikon was the F501AF. Later replaced by a F801s. Behind me in the cabinet are a FM2 and F90x (stored in their in original Boxes). Nice Cameras but I switched to Canon when going Digital because my Nikon lenses from School and Study times where everything but not great with Digital Cameras and when I switched only Canon had a full frame digital camera (The 5D) and the CEO of Nikon stated at the Photokina in Cologne that they will not develop a full frame.

[@SloopJohnBee-vq6dw]

Nice informative video man 👍📸

[@Wannes_]

I started out with a 2nd hand F301 It was built like a tank ! I slipped on the rocks, and fell on the camera The 301 only had a scratch I came off worse feeling sore for a week or so

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

As you say, Tanks.

[@joerg_koeln]

Thanks for the video. For a couple of pounds or euros for sure a good value for money and ideal for beginners with a limited budget. Personally I prefer the older FM2/FM2 or F4/F5/F6.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Totally agree! Thats the aim of the video. To those wanting to get into Nikon on a budget.

[@joerg_koeln]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss The FE is also relatively cheap and brings all you need except for TTL flash - and only very few people need 1/4000 sec; those who do, need a couple of f/1.4 or f/1.8 lenses, and if you can afford these, a more expensive body is not a problem.

[@northof-62]

Still got mine. Works like new. It was better made than the later F-801 /801s which have very delicate PVC bottom plates. Not a fan of the shiny black brittle PVC F-x01 models . Still my 801 which I got for around 50€ with a 24mm AF Nikkor, has never lost a shot, so mechanically I can't fault it.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

It was the 601 that I had to replace the back. The clip inside breaks. Common issue.

[@steveharper3559]

Ok that is quite fascinating and sure many of the bodies are cheap but not the bloody lenses! Sure you got lucky with that sigma but I can’t toss money around trying them all! You mentioned that canon rebel eos’s are dirt cheap and feature packed. I know! I have the rebel g and love it. I wasn’t ok with only its kit 30-80 lens so I found the only actual affordable canon prime there is, the 50 stm 1.8. Everything else is Nikon lens prices, even their 2 x adapters. So I’ll use my only canon a lot but otherwise stick with Pentax. I’ve got plenty of those along with a fair variety of Pentax glass. They’re good enough.

[@TristanColgate]

I've always had a twinge to get a Nikon or Cannon, mostly just for all those lenses! Ultimately though, I know it's just GAS. I have 2 OM1n and an ON4Ti, and a set of lenses. Nothing else is going to make me take better photos. Just need to use the gear I've got.

[@skiphupp6387]

Would be helpful if you mentioned the USA version of the camera too

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I know I have just realised it's called 2020 in the states

[@steveharper3559]

Oh hey, how do you cope shooting without your glasses? I’ll be 64 this year and my hood left eye isn’t so good anymore. I can shoot with my glasses on but full visibility at the edges of the viewfinder is awkward. I have one clip on diopter but it’s only a good fit on my Pentax series cameras. Built in diopters are great, so is autofocus, when it’s there and not searching.

[@jpgpearson]

it was to show you that the film loaded correctly

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

They soon done away with it.

[@andrewcroft2570]

Great video.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks Andrew

[@Pembers357]

I remember, back in the day, selling my lovely Nikon FM for the plastic autofocus Nikon F50. A bloody awful camera! Today, I have an FM3a, F3HP and F4.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

The marketing must have been very good!

[@Pembers357]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss I was suckered by the lure of extra buttons and an LCD screen. A slippery slope.

[@Digital_Photog1995]

Loved my Nikon F100, sorry I sold it!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Damn! That was a good one!

[@stevenmccaughan2752]

I live in the US and we didn’t get the camera’s that you have I have 10 bodies and still make the batteries for the F

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Surely you had the same cameras, they just had different names for some reason. F-501 (2020) F90x (N90)

[@tyrekwilliams5380]

It looks just like the N2020

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

It is. I never understand why the difference in names for cameras sold in America.

[@michaelacookePDX]

But I can get a new Pentax 17 for $500...

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Or a used F5

[@user-ve3gh5xg9q]

Bo🇬🇧ss💪

[@lupindeweir]

An N(F)90s(X) is practically all the camera you'll ever need. This and a 28-105mm D lens and you can spend the rest of your money on film/developer and be happy as a you can be. The battery holder is no longer made so if you're buying one with a grip you'll have to keep the grip on unless it also has the battery holder (unlikely) so be aware.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Or buy a broken one for spares (making sure it has the battery compartment!).

[@lupindeweir]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss LOL That's why I have two of them!

[@TexTom1981]

A 1:30 minute commercial at the very beginning? Hellls no.

[@PeopleMakePictures]

F80 is amazing.