Nikon FM2 35MM SLR Film Camera User Manual

Introduction

The Nikon FM2 is a robust and reliable 35mm Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) film camera, renowned for its fully mechanical operation and durable titanium shutter. Designed for photographers who appreciate manual control, it offers precise exposure settings and compatibility with a wide range of Nikon F-mount lenses. This manual provides essential instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your Nikon FM2 camera.

Safety Information

• Avoid exposing the camera to extreme temperatures, high humidity, or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
• Keep the camera away from water and other liquids. If the camera gets wet, turn it off immediately and allow it to dry completely before use.
• Handle film carefully. Avoid touching the film surface or exposing it to light before loading or after rewinding.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the camera yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel for any repairs.
• Keep batteries out of reach of children. If swallowed, seek immediate medical attention.

Parts of the Nikon FM2 Camera

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Nikon FM2 camera for optimal use.

This image shows the front of the Nikon FM2 camera, highlighting the lens mount, shutter release button, and film advance lever.

This image displays the back of the Nikon FM2 camera, including the viewfinder, film door, and film counter.

This image shows the bottom of the Nikon FM2 camera, featuring the tripod socket, battery compartment, and film rewind release button.

Setup Guide

1. Battery Installation

The Nikon FM2 requires two 1.5V SR44 or LR44 batteries for the light meter. The camera operates mechanically without batteries, but the meter will not function.

1. Locate the battery compartment on the bottom of the camera.
2. Use a coin to unscrew the battery compartment cover.
3. Insert two 1.5V batteries with the positive (+) side facing up.
4. Replace the cover and tighten securely.

The battery compartment is located on the camera's base plate, accessible by unscrewing the circular cover.

2. Lens Attachment

The Nikon FM2 uses the Nikon F-mount system. Ensure the lens is compatible.

1. Align the red dot on the lens with the red dot on the camera body's lens mount.
2. Rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into place.
3. To remove, press the lens release button on the camera body and rotate the lens counter-clockwise.

The lens mount is prominently featured on the front of the camera body, ready to accept compatible Nikon F-mount lenses.

3. Film Loading

The Nikon FM2 uses 35mm film.

1. Open the camera back by pulling up the film rewind knob.
2. Place the film cartridge into the film chamber on the left side.
3. Pull the film leader across to the take-up spool on the right. Insert the leader into a slot on the spool.
4. Advance the film slightly using the film advance lever to ensure it catches on the sprocket teeth.
5. Close the camera back firmly.
6. Advance the film two frames, pressing the shutter release each time, until the frame counter shows '1'. The rewind knob should rotate as you advance the film, indicating proper loading.

The film door on the back of the camera opens to reveal the film chamber and take-up spool for loading 35mm film.

Operating Instructions

1. Setting ISO (Film Speed)

Set the ISO dial to match the speed of the film loaded in the camera. This is crucial for accurate light metering.

1. Lift and rotate the outer ring of the shutter speed dial to align the film's ISO rating with the index mark.

2. Shutter Speed Selection

The shutter speed dial controls the duration the shutter remains open. Speeds range from 1/4000 second to 1 second, plus 'B' for Bulb mode.

1. Rotate the inner part of the shutter speed dial to select the desired speed.
2. For 'B' (Bulb), the shutter remains open as long as the release button is pressed.

The shutter speed dial is located on the top right of the camera, allowing manual selection of exposure time.

3. Aperture Control

Aperture is controlled via the lens's aperture ring. It affects depth of field and the amount of light entering the camera.

1. Rotate the aperture ring on the lens to select the desired f-stop.

4. Focusing

The Nikon FM2 is a manual focus camera. Use the viewfinder to achieve sharp focus.

1. Look through the viewfinder.
2. Rotate the focusing ring on the lens until the image appears sharp in the split-image rangefinder or microprism collar.

5. Light Metering

The built-in TTL (Through-The-Lens) light meter assists in determining correct exposure. It is powered by the installed batteries.

1. Half-press the shutter release button to activate the meter.
2. Indicators (LEDs) in the viewfinder will show if the exposure is correct (green circle), overexposed (plus sign), or underexposed (minus sign).
3. Adjust shutter speed or aperture until the green circle appears for optimal exposure.

6. Shutter Release

Once focus and exposure are set, gently press the shutter release button to take a photograph.

7. Film Advance

After each shot, advance the film using the film advance lever until it stops. This prepares the camera for the next exposure and increments the frame counter.

8. Film Rewinding

When the film counter reaches the end of the roll (typically 24 or 36 exposures), rewind the film back into its cartridge.

1. Press the film rewind release button on the bottom of the camera.
2. Unfold the rewind crank on the film rewind knob and turn it clockwise until you feel the tension release, indicating the film is fully rewound.
3. Pull up the film rewind knob to open the camera back and remove the film cartridge.

Maintenance and Care

Cleaning

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body.
• For lenses, use a lens brush or blower to remove dust, followed by a lens cleaning solution and cloth if necessary.
• Avoid touching the mirror or shutter curtains directly.

Storage

• Store the camera in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• If storing for extended periods, remove batteries to prevent leakage.
• Keep the camera in a protective bag or case to prevent dust accumulation.

Troubleshooting

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Nikon
• Model: FM2
• Film Format: 35mm
• Shutter Type: Vertical-travel focal-plane shutter with titanium blades
• Shutter Speeds: 1 to 1/4000 sec, B (Bulb)
• Metering: TTL center-weighted, 60/40 pattern
• ISO Range: ISO 12 to 6400
• Lens Mount: Nikon F-mount
• Focusing: Manual focus with split-image/microprism screen
• Power: Two 1.5V SR44 or LR44 batteries for meter
• Dimensions: Approximately 12 x 6 x 12 inches
• Weight: Approximately 2 pounds (907 Grams)

Warranty and Support

This Nikon FM2 camera is a renewed product. Please refer to the specific warranty terms provided by the seller, ElectronicsRenewed, at the time of purchase. For technical support or service inquiries, contact the seller directly.

For general information about Nikon products, visit the official Nikon website: Nikon USA