The Nikon FE 35mm Single Lens Reflex camera is a manual focus film camera. If you have vision problems and/or don't want to be bothered with getting film developed, this is not the camera for you.

I have bought and sold dozens of Nikon FEs and taken at least a roll of film on each one. Of all the 35mm film cameras I have used, this one seems to be the most reliable. Each time I came a cross an FE that wasn't working, I checked and all it needed was new batteries. [LR44 1.5V (A-76)] It's a well made, easy to use manual focus film camera.

The FE was introduced in 1978... so some models are nearly 30years old... if you are buying one today, be sure it's in good condition before you lay down the cash. The FE is not loaded with a lot of fancy features. But it's basic design is one of the reasons it's so reliable. As a matter of fact, you can operate this camera (in m90 mode) with no batteries.

The Nikon FE features aperture-priority (AUTO)... that's where you set the aperture and the camera will automatically adjust the shutter speed over a range of 1/1000 to 8 seconds.

In MANUAL mode you adjust the shutter speed where you want it... then adjust the aperture until the black needle overlaps the green needle inside the view finder.

The FE is an excellent film camera choice if you do flash photography. When used with the Nikon SB-10 Flash, (camera set to automatic) the shutter speed automatically sets itself to 1/90 second.

There is also a little oddity about the FE... the film advance lever also serves as the on/off switch for the camera. You have to back the film advance lever off the camera 30 degrees (it will click into place) to turn the camera on. I have purchased at least 3 of these cameras with the seller saying they wouldn't turn on only to find they work fine. It is my theory these people just didn't know how to turn the camera on.

The camera also has the B (bulb) mode for use with a shutter release cable. In this mode you can take long exposure night time shots of stars, traffic and city skylines.

The Nikon FE was a step up from and a lot more expensive than Nikon's FM model (the mechanical version of the FE) and was priced out of a lot of photographers budget. But now you can find these gems on eBay for very reasonable prices.

A few things to watch for when shopping for a Nikon FE

1: SEALS:
The light seals keep light from sneaking into the film chamber. Even if a camera has never been used, these seals deteriorate over time and need to be replaced. So always ask the seller about the condition of the light seals. If they are worn out they will be sticky to the touch and leave residue on the film chamber door. Ask your seller about the condition of the light seals.

2: VIEW FINDER:
Ask sellers if the viewfinder is clear and free of scratches. While this would not affect picture quality you don't want to see specs of dust and scratches while trying to compose your shot.

3: LENS SELECTION:
The Nikon FE will accept nearly all Nikkor lenses. It has an adjustable meter coupling lever that allows it to use everything from the old non AI lenses to new autofocus lenses. Note: The auto focus function will not work but you can focus these lenses manually. I have great success with Nikon Series E lenses... they are a good, quality lens that you can find for good prices.

If you do purchase this camera... be sure you get a manual with it, read it and you will be happy with your purchase.