Nikon EM 35mm SLR Film Camera User Manual

Introduction

The Nikon EM is a compact and lightweight 35mm Single Lens Reflex (SLR) film camera, designed for ease of use, making it an excellent choice for both new and experienced photographers. Manufactured by Nikon Corporation, this camera offers automatic exposure control and utilizes Nikon AI lenses, providing a versatile photographic experience. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Nikon EM camera.

Figure 1: Front view of the Nikon EM camera with the 50mm f/1.8 AI lens attached.

Key Features

• Classic Design: Compact and lightweight black body, offering a timeless aesthetic.
• Versatile Lens: Includes a 50mm f/1.8 AI manual focus lens, suitable for various photographic styles.
• Manual Focus: Provides precise control over focus for sharp imagery and creative depth of field.
• Automatic Exposure: Features automatic exposure control with center-weighted metering for consistent results.
• Durable Construction: Built with a robust body designed for reliability and longevity.
• Nikon F Mount: Compatible with a wide range of Nikon AI lenses.
• Focal Plane Shutter: Offers shutter speeds from 1 to 1/1000 second plus Bulb mode.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

The Nikon EM requires two LR44 alkaline batteries for operation. These batteries power the camera's light meter and shutter. Without batteries, the camera will only operate at a fixed mechanical shutter speed of 1/90 second.

1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the camera body.
2. Use a coin to unscrew the battery compartment cover counter-clockwise.
3. Insert two LR44 batteries, ensuring the positive (+) side faces outwards, as indicated by the markings inside the compartment.
4. Replace the battery compartment cover and screw it clockwise until secure.

Figure 2: Bottom view of the Nikon EM, highlighting the battery compartment.

2. Lens Attachment

The Nikon EM uses the Nikon F Mount. Ensure the lens you are attaching is an AI (Automatic Indexing) type for full compatibility with the camera's metering system.

1. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear cap from the lens.
2. Align the red dot on the lens barrel with the red dot on the camera's lens mount.
3. Insert the lens into the camera mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
4. To remove the lens, press the lens release button on the camera body and rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it detaches.

Figure 3: Close-up of the Nikon EM with lens, illustrating the lens mount.

3. Loading Film

The Nikon EM uses standard 35mm film cartridges.

1. Open the camera back by pulling up the film rewind knob until the back pops open.
2. Place a 35mm film cartridge into the film chamber on the left side of the camera.
3. Pull the film leader across to the take-up spool on the right side. Insert the tip of the film leader into one of the slots on the take-up spool.
4. Advance the film slightly using the film advance lever to ensure the film perforations engage with the sprocket teeth.
5. Close the camera back firmly until it clicks shut.
6. Advance the film two frames by pressing the shutter button and operating the film advance lever. Check that the film rewind knob rotates as you advance the film, indicating proper film loading.
7. Set the film speed (ISO/ASA) by lifting and rotating the outer ring of the shutter speed dial to match the ISO of your film.

Figure 4: Rear view of the Nikon EM, showing the film door closed.

Operating the Camera

1. Setting Film Speed (ISO/ASA)

The ISO/ASA setting on your camera must match the ISO rating of the film you are using. This ensures accurate exposure readings.

• Lift the outer ring of the shutter speed dial.
• Rotate it until the desired ISO/ASA number aligns with the index mark.
• Release the ring to lock the setting.

Figure 5: Top view of the Nikon EM, indicating the ISO/ASA dial.

2. Focusing

The Nikon EM features manual focus. Look through the viewfinder and rotate the focusing ring on the lens until your subject appears sharp.

• The viewfinder typically has a split-image rangefinder and a microprism collar to aid in precise focusing.
• Align the split image or make the microprism pattern disappear to achieve sharp focus.

3. Exposure Control (Automatic)

The Nikon EM operates primarily in automatic exposure mode (aperture-priority auto). The camera selects the appropriate shutter speed based on the aperture you set and the light conditions.

• Set the shutter speed dial to "AUTO".
• Select your desired aperture (f-stop) on the lens.
• The camera's meter will indicate the recommended shutter speed in the viewfinder. If the light is too low or too bright, an audible warning may sound.
• For flash photography, set the shutter speed dial to "M90" (1/90 second), which is the flash X-sync speed.

4. Shutter Release

Once focused and the exposure is set, gently press the shutter release button to take a picture.

• After taking a picture, advance the film using the film advance lever to prepare for the next shot.
• The camera also features a "Bulb" (B) setting on the shutter speed dial for long exposures, where the shutter remains open as long as the button is pressed.

5. Self-Timer

The self-timer allows for a delayed shutter release, useful for self-portraits or group photos where the photographer wants to be in the shot.

• To activate the self-timer, move the self-timer lever (usually located on the front of the camera body) downwards.
• Press the shutter release button. The self-timer will begin its countdown (approximately 10 seconds) before the shutter fires.

Maintenance

• Cleaning the Camera Body: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the camera body. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water or a mild camera cleaning solution. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Cleaning the Lens: Use a lens brush or air blower to remove dust. For smudges, use a specialized lens cleaning solution and a microfiber lens cloth. Clean gently in a circular motion from the center outwards.
• Cleaning the Viewfinder: Use a soft brush or air blower to remove dust. Avoid touching the viewfinder glass directly with fingers.
• Storage: When not in use, store the camera in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and high humidity. It is advisable to remove batteries if storing for extended periods to prevent leakage.
• Film Handling: Always load and unload film in subdued light to prevent accidental exposure.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty Information

This Nikon EM camera comes with a 90-day limited warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims. For specific terms and conditions, refer to the warranty documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact the seller.

Support

For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your Nikon EM camera, please contact the seller or refer to the official Nikon support resources available online. When contacting support, please have your product model number (EM) and any relevant purchase details ready.

You can also find a wealth of information, including historical manuals and community forums, by searching for "Nikon EM manual" or "Nikon EM support" online.