Getting on into Film. Need recommendations.

[momobot]

Hi,

I am now planning to venture into film photography, and need to buy my very first film camera. just need some advise.
I am actually a digital user for 1 year, all Nikon brand, so I'm thinking if I can still use my FX lenses with the film cameras?
My priority is to find a Nikon also, looking at FM10, main reason is the low price. next is I'm looking at FM3a found 1 on ebay with 50mm 1.4 about $900 and and another body only at $500.
But I may also consider other brands depending on recommendations.
Let me know your thoughts about these.

Thanks so much!

 

[saveDqueen]

Yes, all AFD/AI/AI-s lenses can be used on all analogue camera models.

FM3a is a wonderful camera (and i'm lusting for one too), it offers the highest capabilities amongst all mechanical cameras IMO

Find out your needs on the camera such as AF, electronic winder, high shutter speed, light meter types etc

Why not take a look at F, FE and FM lineage, they are still very popular till today, google for reviews and in CS too.

Cheers!

 

[azzurri]

it would depend which fx lenses you have. if your lenses are the g lenses (those without the aperture ring), you would not be able to control the aperture on the fm line of cameras. if your lenses are the g lenses, you might want to check out the f75, f80 or f100 instead.

 

[raytoei]

just bought a fm (one grade below mint) that came with the nikkor 50/f2 lens,
got it all for 120 usd and I sent in to have it serviced for 100 sgd at
camera hospital who added a new screen for me.

most of the older slr have spots in the viewfinder so try to pay more for a cleaner one.

since then, i have bought from the usual sources:

a. nikkor-s 50/1.4. about $64 usd (arrived)
b. zoom lens 35-70 f3.5 for usd 134 usd (waiting in the mail)

The nikon fm feels so refined next to my new-old stock praktica mtl 5b.


here's a picture taken with the fm f1.4 lens today, purposely pushed down the brightness and contast for dramatic effect:

fuji neopan 400, ei 320 developed in ilford pq paper developer
nikkor 50/f1.4

 

[momobot]

Thanks guys for sharing your thoughts, really appreciated. And very nice shot raytoei! it adds up to my excitement to get my hands on those films!!!

 

[frederickykfoo]

You can try F3, the pro body
http://www.clubsnap.com/forums/threads/937764-WTSell-SLR-Nikon-Nikon-F3-50mm-F1.8-AIS
Call me if you do not know how to use.
FM10 is a plastic body, better not buy.