Nikon FM2 | This camera will save your life

[@juliocesarpereira4325]

The Nikon FM2 was a camera I felt in love long before I had it. Then one day, I found a guy selling a silver FM2n at a reasonable price and he happened to live in the same town I was. I got a Nikkor S 50mm f/1.4 lens (which btw was also second hand) and went to meet him. He has had it for a long time and used it professionally. He brought the user manual along. It was in very good shape with just some minor scratches in the back. I love everything about the FM2n: the simple yet very accurate meter, the display of the aperture at the top of the viewfinder screen and how robust it is. It did not take any time for me to adapt myself to using this camera at all as opposed to other cameras such as my only tlr. After watching that documentary about Vivian Maier, I dreamt of acquiring a Rolleiflex tlr camera. While it did not happen, I trained myself to learn how to shoot from the hip with my Samsung NX300 mirrorless camera. By the time I acquired a Rolleiflex 2.8c, loaded the film, it was almost second nature to use it.

[@barclayjb]

I bought a Nikon FM used in 1979 and it still works perfectly. A real workhorse.

[@1MrErling]

just like me

[@X3ABnew]

@@1MrErling me 2

[@emile3363]

Me three

[@X3ABnew]

@@emile3363 🙂

[@RichCopley]

Just pulled my old FM2n out of storage and have shot a couple rolls. So much fun getting back to the basics of black-and-white film. This is such an inspiring post seeing how young photographers are reacting to cameras we once considered state-of-the-art. They hold up! I highly recommend the 85mm/f2, my long time favorite lens.

[@itscapturedbysam]

Film is definitely making a come back, if the price is not so crazy I’d shoot more 😂 ~

[@jerryrichards8172]

The x-700 is a great camera I have been shooting mine since the 80s same camera the entire time. Thousands of backpacking trials family camping and up and down several frozen mountains. Still looks new no breaks or repairs ❤

[@johngraff2401]

I absolutely loved your uplifting video. I have 5 of these cameras. I find myself always returning to film because I used film for many years before digital came out. I also use a lot of digital for video and stills. When a manual FM2N shutter clicks, it sends a shot of endorphins into my brain unlike anything that I get from any other camera. It is so immediate and real, just like you!

[@itscapturedbysam]

Thank you 😊

[@eyeofalchemy]

Yes, yes, YES! I love the FM2! And I always love your shots😭❤️ and your warm spirit! I have 2 FM2 cameras and 1 FM2n, I use them for paid work and for just fun casual stuff. To me, it's a perfect mechanical camera!

[@itscapturedbysam]

All my other cameras I use for portraits are pretty big, hopefully by having this camera I’ll take more everyday life photos 😂

[@eyeofalchemy]

​@@itscapturedbysam I hope you enjoy it! Also, seeing that the camera is self-lubricating, it requires less frequent servicing, meaning it'll get out of your way and let you do what you do best! Which is take amazing photos😊 that lens is beautiful in its rendering too!

[@loochan325]

My FM2n black is my nicest Nikon camera in my opinion, with the nicest Nikon viewfinder also in my opinion, but even if I have this camera for decades, I never managed to use it once. All my other cameras get a lot of use. Mechanical only small 35 format SLRs I also have the Nikon F2 black that I use very rare in realy cold weather with stepless shutter from 1/90s to 1/2000s precise enough for 35 slide film and not just for slides, but still is my least used camera, because from 1972 only one year after F2 came, I prefer aperture priority SLR, with stepless shutter or at least with 1/2 and 1/3 steps, with manual exposure compensation in AV, and AE-L exposure lock, and spot + AE-L, and after 1985 also with AF..., and with better bokeh lenses then any Nikkor and better to infinitely better flare resistance...and altrough I have and use a lot of AV smal format SLRs, '72 Minolta XM/XK/X-1, '74 Minolta XE, and Contax RTS, '75 Pentax K2 black with X sync up to 1/125s and FP sync up to 1/1000s, stepless shutter from over an hour not just 8s to 1/1500s and from 1/125s to 1/1000s all times can be used without the 2xSR44 batterys but I never ever have to do that because those last like 10 years not just 1 like in the manual and I have spares, and has full MLU, DOF preview, 0.88X @ 95++%, etc., and Olympus OM2 also from '75, '76 Pentax K2DMD that added AE-L, integrated shutter blind in AV, periscop for reading aperture, motor/winder suport, '77 Nikon EL2 and Leica R3, '78 Nikon FE, Minolta XD-7/XD/XD-11, Canon A-1, '80 Nikon F3, Pentax LX, Leica R4, '81 Canon New F-1, '83 Nikon FE2 black and F3AF, '85 Minolta 9000, '88 Pentax SF10 with spot and AE-L and 0.82X magnification not stupid 0.7X like F4, '89 Canon eos 1 old with stupid 0.71X but at least decent fast one point AF, '91 Pentax Z1, '94 Canon eos 1n with crap 0.72X but fast AF, and I also have and use also some other AF 35mm SLRs, Canon eos1v, Pentax MZ-S, Nikon F6, Minolta Alpha 9 and 7, Contax N1. But all those nice as they are, are shit compared to all my 645, 6x6, 6x7, 6x8, 6x9 cameras, mechanical or not, AV or not, AF or not, Contax 645AF, Pentax 67 and 645, Mamiya 67, 68, 645, Bronica 6x6, Rolley 66, Hasselblad 6x6 and sure PhaseOne XF FF645 IQ3 and IQ4. I have no FF35 DSLR because all have crapy viewfinders, even the 0.76X eos 1DS III and D6 are crap, heavy but with small magnification and low resolution for the format. I have a Pentax * istD 6MP APSC DSLR from 2003, and look for a future Pentax K1 III if it has decent magnification like close to 0.9X and high eye point like 21-25mm, and 43-47 MP, and a Pentax FF645, but I'm also fine with PhaseOne XF FF645 101 and 151 MP. FM2n black or even FM3A that is like FM3+FE3 but with only 0.83X instead of 0.86X, same 1/4000s and same 1/250s X sync, same AE-L but with push on the back instead of the front and still with no spot in 2001!!!, and stupid times and nidle like in 1974 Contax but placed stupid on the left and not on the right like it is wey better on K2, can't beat a FF645 that is 2.7X larger even if is the smallest MF.

[@roberthadley1717]

I used two of these for press work years ago.Kit was two of these plus a 28mm f2.8 a 50mm f1.8 a 85mmf2 and a 180mmf2.8 with a Metz 45 flash. Great cameras and lenses.Never let me down.

[@threetree7737]

Honestly your black and white shot were so good. Especially on a cloudy day. It was so soft, perfect for portrait and I wouldn’t want that roll to be in color!

[@LennyCooke636]

After getting aquainted to digital I sort of never went back to film. That's until the other day when i decided to put my FM2 still in great condition to test around town. I still have a bucket of Film in my fridge collecting ice so I grabbed a couple of cans. I thought film photography was going to be way too complicated now that I have been working with Digital for years but it wasn't ! Actually the Meter is much more stable on these cameras than digital cameras. The most annoying thing on some of my digital cameras is the way the meter jumps back and forth in Manual mode, but with the FM2, I didn't have that problem. Actually if the light is not changing constantly such as on a cloudy windy day, you can prmanently set your shutter speed to about 1/125 or 1/250 (for moving subjects) depending on the light and fire away ! Then you only have the aperture and focusing to worry about. You are NOT constantly, or furiously hitting the dials, believe it or not. Now that I shot a couple of rolls its time to develop those rolls. Oops I still have some chemicals under the sink which have also been sitting for a while. Hate to ruin those 2 rolls so I think I'll order some new chemicals !

[@idasu]

This is a really beautiful video, your photos made me cry.

[@spyUGC]

I haven't used mine for over 20 year! But I still have my FM2 with Nikor 50mm f1.4 lens,1.8 24mm and 105mm f2.5... just like your set up with a few spares. It's just so beautiful, and I lugged that thing around South America back in the 90's. It's an amazing camera, and good on you for hanging in on film and for bringing this amazing camera back to the masses!!! How small are those primes compared to modern lenses!!!

[@itscapturedbysam]

I’d love to get a wider lens for my FM2, I only have the 50mm. This is a camera I think I’ll always have even I’m not using it that often~

[@MrDastardly]

Wow, just loved this presentation. Beautiful creativity. Don’t stop what you are doing. 👏👏👏

[@Kevin-tt5wt]

If I'm not mistaken, the advance lever/lock also engages the light meter. In the closed position, meter is off and conserves battery.

[@steveember8972]

Just discovered your channel, Sam, and enjoyed your very infectious style, both in talking about your new FM2 and your interactions with people you wish to photograph. Just happened to land on your video as I'd purchased a lovely FM2/T (Titanium for camera top/bottom and very elegant addition to my Nikons of this form factor!) and was actually trying to find out if Nikon had "updated" the owner's manual when they introduced the /T version. Anyhow, to address your inconvenience over having to keep the wind lever at the stand-off position to be able to shoot, you may want to invest in the MD-12 motor drive. Of course, it will require you to keep some AA batteries around (it doesn't wear them down all that quickly! I use Lithium AA;s in my MDs), and it does add a bit of bulk BUT it provides a nice grip for the camera AND you'll be tripping the shutter with the drive's own button, which allows the wind lever to stay nicely tucked in! While I don't use my Nikons for subjects that strictly require motor drive, I do love the ergonomics - especially as my aging eyeballs decided me on using left eye for shooting - which creates the very real risk of the wind lever competing with your right eye ;-) Oh, forgot to mention, your street photography is lovely to view. Keep enjoying that FM2!

[@itscapturedbysam]

More I use this camera I start to get used to the winder~ but still thank you for the tips and thank you for watching ☺️

[@ackamack101]

This is the happiest FM2 video I have ever seen. Thank you! 😌👍

[@itscapturedbysam]

Thank you for watching~ 😀

[@DanMcShane-q4q]

Hi, great video. I’ve had an FM2n for over twenty years and it’s still flawless.

[@invictarose203]

I own an Olympus OM-1 that really made me fall in love with mechanical 35mm cameras. I just stumbled upon the Nikon FM2 and fell in love with it. I just ordered one and can't wait for it to arrive. I can already tell that I will more than likely use it more than my OM-1. Especially because I absolutely love the all black color on it. Your video definitely got me excitement sky high. I will own an early model with the titanium honeycomb shutter.

[@artsilva]

I've always been an FE user since 1978, using mine with MD-12 motor drives during my photojournalism days are basically similar cameras to the FM line other than the electronics and auto features the FE has. Of the four bodies I have had over those early years I still have three left, One is in need of major servicing, one is working roughly and the last one is in Perfect working order and still looks new because it was the last one I purchased right before I stopped working a lot abusing my cameras, that was back in the late 90's, but I continued to shoot the ones that still work. I may still get an FM2 tho :) These cameras were built to last and I can attest that they really do, at least on the FE size. Oh and btw, my FE only uses two coin batteries which lasts for-ever. I have Two grave cameras: one of my FE bodies of course and then my Hasselblad 503cx because of all the film and digital cameras I've owned, these two were/are the most significant cameras in my photography development.

[@Astro_Aladfar]

I had a black FM2N. I used the camera extensively for winter astrophotography and landscapes. It worked super reliable in extreme cold and was ergonomic, lightweight and easy to use. My favorite feature was its 1/4000 s shutter speed and multi-exposure lever.

[@TaylorTheOtter]

Note on the flash sync speed: the 1/250th is only on the FM2n model which is still marked as the FM2. The first FM2 was only made for one year and it syncs up to 1/200th of a second. You can identify it by 125 being red on the shutter speed dial and then past the 4000 mark, there's another red one which is marked as X200. There's different versions of the FM2n with different materials of shutter curtain but they're functionally identical to eachother and to the FM2 except for that sync speed difference. The original FM2 models all have titanium shutter curtains though which is how they were initially able to reach that 1/4000th shutter speed. Later on they figured out how to do it with different materials too. I have the original FM2 so I know for a fact that mine is from 1982 and it still works flawlessly. My absolute favorite camera.

[@frankmarrara3425]

I bought this camera new in the early 80's. I still have it and it still works like new. All you had to do is think about the shot. Not all the things you have to think about today. That's when photography was fun!!!.

[@mrdjtoday]

You made an excellent choice in getting the Nikon FM2 (Especially in black!). This camera is the best, and I should use mine more that I do. Yes, I'm a collector of cameras that....., from time to time takes a picture and I'll never get rid of my FM2. It's a great camera....., although I really love my F3, my FM2 is special to me along with all of my cameras (35mm, medium format, large format..., and yes! Digital too). All in all, great video and keep and shoot your FM2, It's good stuff!😎

[@thevalleyofdisappointment]

i have an FM with the japan market 50mm f1.8 pancake lens and a magnetically attached 3 stop ND filter. I don't use flash so I feel this kit gives me 98% of the FM2 equivalent for a LOT less money. Great content btw!

[@paultaylorphotography9499]

Awesome camera awesome presentation liked and subbed cheers Sam

[@irfanchaudhry8269]

Love my FM2 - favorite lens for street photography is the 28mm f2.8 AIS - such a great combination!

[@itscapturedbysam]

I have a 28mm for my X-700 but I never use, I always been a portrait photographer, I always thought 28mm is too wide~ maybe I should try it next time!!

[@irfanchaudhry8269]

@@itscapturedbysam try some portraits with the 28mm - it’s challenging at first but you might like it! Love the content 🙋🏽‍♂️

[@OriginalWatchcow]

FM2 has the 1/200th flash sync. FM2a had 1/250th and the honeycomb shutter in early builds much like the FE2. FM had the shutter in the display on thevside and aperture atbthe top ofbthe finder window with the very simple +/- LED meter indicator. The FE series has the match needle display that a lot of people found more intuitive. There were some specialty versions of the FM, including one with titanium covers that had sort of a champagne chrome color.

[@jonnyem.8859]

I chose Nikon over Canon in 1981 because the FM/FE had a multiple exposure lever, and the Canon AE-1 did not. I did a lot of creative multiple exposures and needed that feature. I've been with Nikon ever since! Great video, thanks for covering one of my favorite film cameras so well!

[@nwmi23]

Nikon is better than Canon all across the board!

[@Ghatbkk]

I chose Nikon over Canon at roughly the same time because Canon brought out their new line with no backwards compatibility in their systems. Today, I'm shooting a Nikon Zf and I can still use the lenses from my FM2 on it. Nikon's commitment to photographers is why I am committed to Nikon.

[@kvk1962]

Sage advise at 4:28 about loading film and watching the discharge wheel (my term ). Happened to me last summer, groannnn, advice I was given - get in the habit of resting your left thumb on the edge of the discharge wheel so you can feel it turn each time you advance film.

[@robinj.9329]

Many photographers, both amateur and Professional believe the FM and FM2 were "THE VERY BEST " 35mm SLR every mass produced! I've been using them for decades! Great choice.

[@carbonejack]

The B&W's are great too.

[@EricSchurmans]

Is a nice camera light and well build . Nice black box with great lenses, have fun and shoot !

[@KimHojbergJensen]

Oh, I just ordered on yesterday. My F3, even looking great, is getting more issues, so I decided to look for another one. And then I ended up with the FM2n 😊

[@TaylorTheOtter]

I really love the shutter release finger guard feature. I miss it on all my other cameras. I tend to fidget a lot with my camera while shooting and with the FM2 I never have to worry about accidentally taking a picture. Also it keeps the advance lever from catching on your clothes when using a neck strap. I hate it when my OM-10 hooks onto the shoulder straps of my backpack or gets caught on the zipper of my coat or whatever.

[@carbonejack]

The picture of the seated man is awesome. You have some great images. To convinced me to go out and pick up an FM2n.

[@Emerald_City_]

If you knew how much memory you have brought back to me by this video... I have carried my FM1 for thousands and thousands of kilometers, also on foot... hiking and climbing... flying and driving... weddings and street... Kodachrome slides my favorite, though Fuji was not bad at all. Fotokemika & Ilford b&w excellent too. Orwo when I had no money left... Since 1991 I used it just shortly in 1993 and 1995, also briefly in 2000 and last in 2004. It's been sitting in my closet for 20 years now, but I'm sure the moment I try it, it will work. Since 2010 I've been shooting digital, after a lot of hesitating, and obviously there's a great technological advancement. But the old memories don't die. I wish I had this awareness of the times passing by, and shooting the people more in those times, those who really made the history. Now we have all the technology, but that generation is gone. The whole cultures and civilizations are gone! I was terribly neglectful with my youth photography...

[@Matthew-p5e1d]

Just bought a late production (1999) one of these off ebay. I have had a FM and a FM2N in the past. The shutters on both of them failed on me after about a year of intermittent use. Neither were CLAed. I switched to F2 and these have been very reliable. Giving the FM2N a second chance because I want a light weight back up camera to pack along with the F and F2 I use. From what I have read, the aluminum shutters (1989 to 2001) are more reliable than the titanium honeycomb shutters found on the earlier models (1982 to 1988). No camera this age is bullet proof. Make sure you get a CLA if you want years of trouble free use.

[@Johnybulletproof]

i love my FM2 (i own 2 ) , its the perfect wingman for the F3 or F2 . plus 1/4000 shutter helps a lot to shoot wide open . Pro tip just make sure you shoot it ofthen they tend to JAM if not use frequently dirt bulds in the bottom plate and causes grease to stick . its very simple to clean and service .

[@itscapturedbysam]

Noted!! Thank you!!

[@JaseSung]

I just recently got one for a decent price since it was bundled with a 50mm 1.4 ai lens that I really wanted. I knew he hype behind it but wasn’t particularly excited for it - But having now shot a few rolls on it. It’s such a fun camera to shoot with. I found everything really easy to hand so it really did feel natural as you said. Think I’ll be shooting it as my main 400 iso/Autumn-Winter camera.

[@JoeLopez]

You shared some very nice photos! I love that you are able to approach people and capture their moments like that. Well done

[@richardcampeau2862]

If you add a MD-12 motor drive you will no longer need to have the safety lock in your way. You press the button on the MD-12 hallway and you have metering and press doown to take the picture. You have a nice handle grip for the camera as bonus :)

[@kevincooper8666]

After watching your video a second time you've managed to convince me to get a fm2n with 50mm f1.4 i was impressed by the quality in your images.I agree with you the fm/fe bodies seem indestructible i heard a story about a mountaineer using one on account of their ability to function at low temperatures he wss on a mountain lost grip and his camera fell a couple of hundred metres down on the wat down he was able to reach his camera cleared off the snow and ice wound on and took a photo it was still working properly nikons best😊😊😊

[@terrywbreedlove]

Sam I was so happy this morning. I just came out of the woods trail in the HOH Rain forest, Wa. I live just 20 minutes away. I met a young couple from Canada. She was shooting a Nikon 35mm cameras and I used it to take a portrait of them both. Love meeting film shooters. Oh and you rock

[@DimitrisPapadopoulos1980]

The FM2 FM2N is one of the most important Nikon Cameras. Its light compact and trustworthy. It has never let me down, never broken etc. Even though i own many FM2Ns I do not use them usually. I prefer the match needle system of the FE, FE2. FM2Ns view finder makes me my eyes go left up right so to gather all exposure information.

[@itscapturedbysam]

It's my most reliable small 35mm camera right now, I'd always keep it even if I don't use it that much~~

[@Webcastering]

You should take a look on Minolta SRT series

[@chrisreich40]

You are going to continue to enjoy that camera for as long as you need a camera, Sam. I too, dislike the film wind lever poking me in the eye when composing. My solution is to add the accessory MD-12 motor drive, which also adds a very comfortable hand grip, at least for my giant hands. The MD-12 runs on AA batteries, and I do not know if they also power the camera. Best wishes.

[@pedrol.5417]

Very good video ! I have a Nikon FM2n and many Nikon Ais lenses, I do love them, and I also have an Olympus OM1 with Zuiko lenses. It is even smaller and nicer than the FM2n. I shoot both and I love them.

[@X3ABnew]

Hmmm... I started with FM2 camera after looking for other opportunities. There were the only one competitor: the Pentax. Not the Canon or Minolta. From this time (40 years ago) I still use Nikon's cameras. The best!

[@miks.343]

Nice review... It is a great camera, and it is the only Nikon camera I own (the only one I ever wanted), although, if I had to chose, I would want to be buried with one of my Olympus cameras (either OM-1n or OM-3ti ). One correction though... You mentioned the titanium shutter (which I have on my FM2), however I believe that you have a later version and it is equipped with an aluminum shutter. The titanium shutters had a honeycomb pattern, but yours appears to be smooth. Nikon switched from titanium to aluminum shutters with improved design and reliability later in the production.

[@MorningNapalm]

I have an FM2 as well, the FM2N model, like yours. Super nice camera.

[@Xenonic2]

Love my FM2n (recently figured out it was an N by the obvious N on the back lol)! I’ve had it for a little over 2 years now and I’ve taken some of my favorite photos on it. I had the FE2 but the “mechanical” aspect of it and the LED light meter (as opposed to the FE2’s needle meter) made me need this camera. Super durable and the Nikon glass is fantastic as always. If you get the chance to, try buying a Non-AI lens and adapting it to the F-Mount. Earlier Nikon lenses, before the F-Mount, had glass that many professional journalist photographers swore was top notch. I sold my 28mm 3.5 with the FE2 and I regret it every day! Love your content, as always! I hope you can post a video of a portrait session with the FM2 very soon. Hope you find it sneak it’s way into your workflow because, once it does, it stays!

[@Xenonic2]

This is crazy but I have been to that Italian Restaurant at 14:44 ! It’s really nice and it’s so close to Pasadena Playhouse!

[@itscapturedbysam]

Thank you for the tips!! I’d love to do a portrait session with it. I’m wondering how big of difference it’s gonna be between the FM2 and my Canon 1v both with 50mm prime lens. I think it will be interesting to test it out!!

[@johnrflinn]

My go to camera for Northern Lights photography in sub zero temperatures. I especially like the Nikkor 28mm F2.

[@jjmccleary]

Great review, Sam! Nice that the FM2 works at all speeds without batteries 🤍. Sounds like it makes a nice solid shutter noise too 🤩 I love your street photos!

[@itscapturedbysam]

Ohhhhh I can play with that shutter all day long 🤩

[@GonzoTheRosarian]

Having one lens teaches you to be more creative as you are not fiddling with lens changes. For street photography check the 24 mm Nikkor it is phenomenal!

[@PerryNacionales]

The X-700 uses a couple of cheap capacitors that craps out too soon. One of these capacitors can be quickly replaced as it can be accessed from the bottom plate. If you can replace that capacitor, chances are high your X-700 will work again. But, yeah, it's always good to have a fully mechanical camera. I have a a couple FM-2's and also Minolta SR-T 102, Pentax MX and Olympus OM-1. If you love the size of the X-700, you might like the MX or the OM-1 (although you'll have to get used to the Olympus interface). Or, for more money, the Olympus OM-3. Hard to beat the FM-2 though with the higher max shutter speed - you can shoot at wider aperture on a sunny day, if you want to isolate your subject.

[@jochencrazy4pix232]

my first camera I bought brandnew was a Minolta x-300s, they couldn't manage to fix it during warranty-time. I got rid of it ! Bought a used FE2 plus a MD12and a 85/2.0 , that was about 30years ago ...... everything is still working ! Later I got a FM2 ( new ) , a F801, F 801s, FE, F4, all used and still workiing ! I won't take them with me into my grave .... I'LL give them to somebody else .... for another or more 😉😎 by the way, the "old glass " works excellent on digital cameras 😃

[@irishmaninflorida1608]

Thanks for the instructions on how to use! I'm looking into buying one. I only have the one film camera, which is a Canon ftb. Loving so far. You have a positive outlook to shooting. Keep it up as way too many in our community too focused on the tech side. Just my lousy opinion✌️

[@itscapturedbysam]

Thank you for watching ☺️

[@DavidBerglund]

This video made my day! Subscribed ❤ I'm looking to try out film camera photography. The simplicity and it being so definite. Capture the image in the camera and you get what you get. Leave the digital stuff at home or in the bag and go to work.

[@ibperry7656]

I brought what I thought was this camera only find out I had been ripped off. Fortunately I have a titanium model as well but I so want a black FM2. I guess I should be grateful for small mercies? Lovely camera. And good display. From a photographer from AU.

[@oliverthompson8525]

Those X700s are often very easy to fix! I've fixed maybe 3 over the years, most of the time it's just one or two capacitors which fail, replacements cost pennies. My Nikon F2 is my baby, the only 35mm camera I use, vintage Nikon F mount lenses are so good and criminally undervalued on the used market!

[@itscapturedbysam]

That’s what I’m told about the capacitors. I actually fixed one, but it broke again… LOL both my X700 and my A1 need batteries to operate, I’m just happy to have a camera that works without batteries~

[@hjjyou118]

Agree, I sold or trade all my Nikon included the FM2 but kept the F2 with 50 f1.4 in shelf.

[@Gardiroth]

Hey Sam! Nikkor lenses are really good, get the Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 AIS, you will see amazing results! I have one FM2n passed down from my father. It bought in 1986 and it still works really well, no light leaks or inaccurate shutter speeds. The FM2 will last you a lifetime and beyond.

[@itscapturedbysam]

Life time and beyond indeed!! 👏🏻

[@powbobs]

That lens lives on my FM2N.

[@Gardiroth]

@@powbobs I love this 28mm lens too much to take it out haha, only on rare occasions where I will use it with my DSLR. The image quality is really good, even by today's standards I would say.

[@techshowa4613]

minolta srt-101 is just as manual as fm2 , its older , still survive great amount , good image quality , meter still working well , and cost less then fm2 . you should try it ^^ . i literally became a minolta fan just because it.

[@johnpringle6407]

I listened to your page and ended up buying an FM2. I too am a Canon person but I do have a few Nikon lenses and film too. Thank you for your clear review

[@itscapturedbysam]

If you have Nikon lens, you will not regret picking up this camera. I find myself using it more and more now~

[@radjagani6693]

FM2 is my mom 1st camera back to 1983, and it still works!!! until now on April 2023!!

[@itscapturedbysam]

It’s indeed a solid camera that last generations!!

[@ruff1draft]

Excellent selection of photographs

[@andrewtongue7084]

Sam, so pleased that you've taken a shine to one of the best all-manual SLR's in the world - I own several bodies from the F series, but the FM & FM2 (n) are sublime. One point upon we will disagree; personally the old gentleman would have looked far better in monochrome - as well that the woman in the hat was shot in B & W; it's interesting, the propensity of so many photographers to use colour negative (or positive) film over monochromatic, whilst not surporising, is my antithesis. Less than one third of the World's population see only in B & W - the rest of us see polychromatically - an everyday perception that we tend to overlook (& take for granted); this is why tonal rendition from say, a roll of Ilford FP4 or HP5 to name but two, is so dynamic - look at how punchy shades of grey are as opposed to a multicoloured contemporary. Ultimately, the film stock you use is a personal choice - so I won't force your hand to use more of what I consider my favourite...take it easy, Best, Andrew 🙂

[@te369amo]

Awesome camera, I had one a few years ago. There is one secret feature, you didn't say about it. You can set shutter speed and aperture in between values (in between clicks), and it works correctly, the camera understands that. So it has a smooth adjustment of shutter speed and aperture. 😜

[@Blackmind0]

i use the nikon FM2n very often, but also like my minolta xe-1, this minolta is like a tank, done in cooperation with Leica ! and has a smooth shutter... greets BM

[@whfowle]

I like the way you describe manual mode: "Time to use your brain mode". After starting with the Nikon FTn in 1966 and progressing through all the "pro" Nikons up to the F6, I find the FM2n to be the most like my original FTn. Just simple match needle exposure. Light weight, small, and built like a tank. It just works! It gets out of the way and depends on what ever skill as a photographer you might have. Thats all I want in a camera. Reliable is the middle name for Nikon film cameras. My original Nikon F is still used today. It has never been in the shop and has survived car wrecks where it flew off the seat and hit the windshield and then dropped to the floor board. Mine didn't stop a bullet though.

[@itscapturedbysam]

It jus works!! Yes, and it works beautifully! I think I’ll always keep mine as a back up, I only have a 50mm lens for it, thinking about getting a wider lens too~

[@alienigga]

Just found one of these at my dead grandma's house. thanks for helping my understand all the functions!

[@grumbirky]

Lovely video. Shooting film is a wonderfully different experience, you have to slow down and really think about what you're doing, with having a very limited amount of shots. I have an Olympus OM-10, but would love an FM2 so I can use my older Nikon lenses. Great recommendation to get one, thank you!

[@bhop.builds]

I'm always happy to see a new video from you show up. As a long time Nikon shooter, this was one was extra enjoyable! I have most of the Pro F models up to the F4 as well as an Fm2 and a dead F100. 😥 (also a digital D3s) I got the FM2 really cheap, like maybe $50 or something, because it's in rough shape. Meter is dead. The self timer lever is just gone. There are a couple dents, and brassing everywhere, BUT it still functions! I have taken some nice photos with it using sunny 16 and a handheld meter, so I think when you say the camera will probably last forever, it's probably true. I don't really remember why I bought it in the first place tbh. I think I just wanted to try one out without spending a lot of money and thought, if I liked it, i'd get a better condition one later, but never did. Speaking of that part of the video. I've often told friends that I'll be buried with my M6 (joking of course🤔...maybe...), so you're not the only one..lol.

[@itscapturedbysam]

I’m hoping to take more every day photos with this camera, this is something I lost in the recent years… but I think I’ll probably end up getting a 35mm lens for that.. I love the shutter sound! This is definitely gonna be a camera I’ll always keep~ you have a M6 though, you don’t need a working FM2 anymore LOL~

[@csb65536]

What an awesome video!! You are so pleasant to listen too. Over the past three years I have been married to doing mostly paid photography with my Canon digitals. I have recently started looking at my collection of film cameras again. I miss shooting film, especially for myself. This has inspired me to get out my FM2 (wgich to this day I have only shot one roll through) and load it upwith B&W, take it to the streets. I had forgotten just how fun shooting film can be. I am so looking forward to this. And, as a bonus, I will also be taking my regular 8mm film movie camera with me also loaded with Black and White film. Again, awesome video, I hit the like, as well as subscribed.

[@itscapturedbysam]

I was in the same boat with you, canon digital for paid works for years, wanting to slow down and to remember what I love about photography..

[@17634930948625448235]

Beautiful photos and nice review. My X-700 works well, but I have 2 XE-7s and and XE-5 and SRT 201 with non-functioning light meters--so I think there's something about Minoltas not holding up well. My brother had to sell his FM2 to make rent decades ago, but today I found out my sister in law has one, and I'm pushing her to finish a roll from 10 years ago and start taking photos with it again. It's a beautiful camera! I'd want one if I didn't have my F3, but the fact that it can use all shutter speeds without battery is a plus compared to the "professional" F3, plus faster shutter speeds (even though 1/4000s is partly an impractical marketing gimmick). Some of your portraits on this roll are wonderful--nice work!

[@LionFeldman]

Just ordered myself a FM after owning the F2 and a small collection of lenses. There's nothing quite like those old Nikons, amazing work horse cameras that seem to never stop working.

[@itscapturedbysam]

I only have one lens for mine, would love to have a wider lens like the 35mm or even 28mm, would be nice for street photos~

[@LionFeldman]

@@itscapturedbysam I personally use the 35mm f2.8 Ai as my "default lens" though you can't really go wrong with anything with Nikon written on it.

[@swannmannbaggywaggy]

I really enjoyed this video. I hope your FM2 never breaks!

[@itscapturedbysam]

I hope so too! 🤣

[@swannmannbaggywaggy]

@@itscapturedbysam I really recommend the FE 🙂

[@WoolWhichReds]

This is an awesome review and education. Thank you 🙏

[@gergnotsloh]

It's a beautiful camera and it does exactly what you need without the fluff.

[@JoeLopez]

Really nice job on this video. The FM2 is one solid camera. If you love the Minolta X-700, try the much more reliable X-500/570.

[@fsxaviator]

Your street photography is sooo good 😭❤️ i just got this camera, feeling super inspired now 🙌

[@itscapturedbysam]

I’m sooooo glad to hear that!! Congrats on getting new camera!!

[@bodyno4814]

看了您的全部视频，觉得视频中的您实在是一个有趣又有魅力且热爱摄影的人，照片和视频的风格我都很喜欢，加油

[@itscapturedbysam]

啊～ 谢谢你的喜欢！会继续努力的！！

[@nunogaspar7675]

I loved your video so much. I have a camera just like yours and with the same lens. Enjoy.

[@swannmannbaggywaggy]

Oh - I do have the FM2, but find that I seem to prefer my old FE. Not such a sophisticated camera, but I like needle match exposure and the FE just went around Barcelona with me...

[@r2d2rxr]

It’s been my favorite camera for the past 7+ years now. If I had to get rid of all my cameras save for one, I’d keep my FM2.

[@davidmascorro5636]

really good video, love your approach to people.

[@sputumtube]

Great video. When you were doing the 'street photography' section I realised I'd been smiling all the way through.

[@itscapturedbysam]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it ☺️

[@tomislavmiletic_]

Alternative great mechanical SLR cameras: Nikon F, F2, FM, FM3/A, Pentax K1000, KM, KX, MX, Olympus OM1, OM1n (have it) OM3, OM3Ti, Contax S2, any of Minolta srT series (have it), Canon FTb, F-1, F-1n, just no name a few. And by the way, there's much more than just two variants of the FM2; at the beginning, those cameras had just 1/200th s. flash sinchronisation, both in black and silver, what was changed to 1/250th a year or two later. Also, in early 90's, to cut some costs, FM2 recived the shutten from the Nikon F4; that's the wariant with smooth shutter blades, instead of more traditional one with honeycomb pattern. And in the end there was a titanium variant, the FM/T. There you go...

[@itscapturedbysam]

Wow.. thank you for the information!! I still would love to get the K100 one day, coz that’s the very first camera I held when I start to learn photography!!

[@tomislavmiletic_]

BTW, you can overrule that annoying safety lock if you attach MD-12 motor drive unit onto your FM2. Just saying...

[@itscapturedbysam]

@@tomislavmiletic_ good to know~

[@gregmarcus3064]

I have a Nikon FM with a broken light meter but still shoots perfect;y, I use a c;lip on lightmter that goes on all my meterless cameras. I also have an FM2 that works perfectly. They will never break but maybe just the light meter. ( both are used cameras)

[@itscapturedbysam]

I’ve wanted to get a small clip on light meter, always wondering if they are accurate.. compared to for example iPhone light meter app~ what do you think…

[@gregmarcus3064]

@@itscapturedbysam In my experience they are more accurate than an iPhone lightmeter. Plus, they are more convenient to use.

[@robertodeleon-gonzalez9844]

The FM2 is my absolute favorite 35mm camera. Say the exposure meter cells are worn out? It still takes pictures, on every speed setting. And speaking of speed - suppose I want a still from a model rocket launch? The FM2 easily captures ignition, without any perceptible lag. Doing that with a digital camera will force you to buy a high-end (meaning VERY expensive) one. It's not like Nikon can do no wrong - for instance, its N2000 has a tendency to quit because of poor contact with its batteries, and when that happens, the camera is useless, unless you can somehow get the contacts working again. If you are serious about wanting to take film photography and have full control, this camera may just be the one.

[@tafar-jk1dy]

Unbreakable !

[@rayjermyn4541]

I owned one decades ago, and always regretted selling it. Solid, reliable, and the perfect fit.

[@itscapturedbysam]

more I use it, more I love it~

[@matthias4428]

You shoot wonderful pictures… ❤

[@Jeff-vf9sj]

Very nice Sam!

[@bondgabebond4907]

Cute review. I have the FE2, a wonderful camera that is 40 years old this year, 2023. It still works great but cries out for Kodak film, especially Kodachrome. I didn't like Fujifilm, not at all. Fujifilm could not touch Kodachrome. My love for film photography died when Kodachrome died. Today I love my Sony A7R3, my new Nikon F2A. My Sony a6700 is my new FE2. They give me the color I love, so I'm happy. Still going to hand on to my FE2 and F2A. Oh, I see you live in LA or somewhere in LA county. Saw that freeway divide to San Fernando and San Bernardino from 210. That's almost my backyard but I'm more east. I've traveled that freeway hundreds of times. BTW, have you ever stopped at Yaamava Casino? If you like your money, avoid.

[@itscapturedbysam]

Funny when I see this message just now I’m in Vegas 😂 ~ but I don’t do casino at all, so no worries about my money~ all my money went into buying films and cameras 🫠

[@andykphoto]

I have the older sibling to this camera, an FM that I got in 2005. I think I got it CLA’d once. It still works perfectly, aside from the meter. But it’s fully mechanical so… 🤷‍♂️😸 I’m definitely thinking about an FM2N just for the extra 2 stops of shutter speed and maybe a working meter 😸

[@itscapturedbysam]

Me personally would pick cameras with internal meter on any day~ coz I’m bad at calculating Sunny 16 😂

[@andykphoto]

@@itscapturedbysam I’m not great at that either, I bring a buddy! Gossen lunasix I think 😸 a nice external meter 😸

[@michaell5038]

That’s a lovely sharp lens. I have same camera, will start using it soon.

[@itscapturedbysam]

its definitely a nice camera!! enjoy it!!

[@Cotictimmy]

I had an FM2 back in the day, but I swapped it for the FE2 (as I liked the swinging needle exposure readout better than the 3 LEDs.) These days the old FE electronics could be a problem. In 2030 I’m a D3S & D3X shooter (I’m too cheap to buy film & develop it now.)

[@itscapturedbysam]

I learned film photography on the Pentax K1000, so I understand the feeling of seeing the needle swing up and down, I always think I’m going to get a K1000 just for sentimental reasons :)

[@stephencox4224]

One very important life saving aspect of the FM2 and the more electronic FE2 variant is that ability to go to 1, 4000 th shutter speed even the Nikon F3 only went to 1, 2000 th and many earlier Nikon Pro F series cameras only went to 1,1000 th that can mean the difference between getting a shot or not in some situations Yes many later cameras like my F 4 went to 1, 8000 th and some of the Hi speed Canon Eos 1 variant such as the named for a reason Eos1 HS went to 1, 16000 th. You may call yourself a Canon Girl but I have Nikon FM2, F4, D80 and D 200 (CCD Sensor Goodness for glorious color reproduction) Nikon D 7100 and then there are My Canon AE1 Program and Canon T90 and lenses for Canon ranging from 24 F2.8, 35 F2, 75 to 300 F4 in Canon FD lenses and SSC variants as well. Then with Nikon I have 50 F 1.2 and 50 F1.4 ,35 to 70 F 3.5, 28 to 70 F2.8 (Tokina ATX Pro) 20 to 35 F2.0 and 300 F 4.0 in Nikon manual Lenses plus 28 to 80 AFD F 2.8 , 20 F 2 AF and 16 to 35 F 2.8 AFs in Digital Lenses. Great Cameras all of them and as an ornament I have not tried to shoot yet a Zeiss Ikon Contina from the 1950's and looking for a Nikon F2 and an F5 which I consider the ultimate Film Camera as the F6 were very few in the wild as Digital soon came to take over. Happily as time goes on there are more and more options in Film being released and more readily available Film being made available based on Black and White and Color Movie Cinematic Film stock. When all said and done Good but it needs developing a hurdle for many wiothout a darkroom and the knowledge of what to do, Then there is this the CP 800 a kickstarter project put into production by Melbourne Australia based Company filmneverdie the CP800 linked below a demonstration on KZbin, an affordable developing option even for amatuer home use for about the cost of a mid range modern Digital prosumer Camera kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJWooYBpZ7SMbLM

[@Johnybulletproof]

btw i am a social documentary photographer as well and i LOVED how you approach your subjets in the pictures. i already suscribed n__n

[@jeffcsMN]

Impartial to the OM 1 or 2 but there is no doubt the FM2 was built like a tank. Major upgrade from the Minolta IMO.

[@itscapturedbysam]

I’m always interested in the Om1, the X700, FM2, Ae1 and the Om1 is the 4 main 35mm film cameras that I’ll eventually collect I think 🤔

[@davidmascorro5636]

my Nikon life started with a FM2. 50 plus years later I'm still using Nikon film cameras. 13 of them to be exact :)

[@itscapturedbysam]

Wow!! You for sure a life long Nikon fan then👏🏻