The Nikon F100 is a single lens reflex camera. It was built by Nikon from 1999 to 2006. It replaced the Nikon F90X. It was positioned next to the Nikon F5 as a slightly cheaper alternative. The design and construction are comparable to the current digital cameras of the Japanese manufacturer.
The lenses of the Nikon F100 can be changed. A Nikon F lens mount was installed for this purpose. The bayonet was first introduced in the 1950s. Over the years, the connection has been revised time and again.
In addition to Nikon, lenses are also made by Sigma, Tokina, Tamron and others. But be careful, not all modern camera lenses can be used with the old film cameras. The camera has an autofocus.
For photographing, the Nikon F100 an exposure meter. It is suitable for films with ISO 6 bis ISO 6400. The camera determines the correct film speed using the DX code. The correct exposure is measured through the lens of the SLR camera. The aperture and shutter speed is automatically set by the camera. The aperture and shutter speed can be freely set by the photographer.
The camera comes with a bulb mode. In this mode, the shutter will open as long as the shutter release button is pressed. An external flash can be connected via hot shoe. The 35mm camera comes with a thread for a tripod. A self-timer is also built in.
The dimensions of the Nikon F100 are 15,5 x 11,3 x 6,6 cm. It brings 785 grams on the scales. The camera needs vier AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon F100
The Nikon F100 takes pictures on 35mm film. 35mm films are still produced by different producers. A 35mm film for color pictures is the Kodak Gold 200*. A possible black and white film is the Ilford XP2 Super*.
The color film is being developed in the C-41 process. The C-41 process is offered by almost all photo labs.
The negatives of Nikon F100 have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. For example, a normal 35mm film can hold at this size a least 36 pictures. The film in the camera is transported automatically.
The model is unfortunately no longer manufactured. The used price of the 35mm photo camera depends on the condition and functionality. But it is in a clearly three-digit Euro range.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Nikon F lens mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/8000 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 6 to 6400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 5EV (0,3EV to) |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/250 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 4x AA batteries |
| Size | 15,5 x 11,3 x 6,6 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 6.10 x 4.45 x 2.60 inches |
| Weight | 785 Grams |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Production duration | 7 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 455,91 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 73 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 298,25 Euro (322.56 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 386,38 Euro (417.81 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 356,92 Euro (385.33 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F100
How do I focus the camera?
The Nikon F100 has autofocus, so you don't need to manually focus. It automatically adjusts the focus for sharp images. The autofocus system works well in various lighting conditions.
What kind of film does this 35mm camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. These are readily available and can be developed at most photo labs. You can find both color and black and white films.
Can I use a flash with the Nikon F100?
Yes, the Nikon F100 has a hot shoe for connecting an external flash. This allows you to use additional lighting for better photos, especially in low-light situations.
What type of lens does the camera take?
The Nikon F100 uses Nikon F-mount lenses. There's a wide variety of lenses available, from many manufacturers, although not all modern lenses are compatible.
Is the camera easy to use for a beginner?
The Nikon F100 is relatively straightforward to operate, even for beginners. It has automatic settings for exposure and focus. Although a film camera, it offers user-friendly controls.
During my years as a professional photographer, the Nikon F100 wasn’t just a camera – it was an extension of my soul. Its intuitive design seemed to meld seamlessly with my vision, allowing me to capture moments as they unraveled before my eyes. One day in particular, while shooting in a remote village, a sudden downpour threatened to disrupt my session. I could see children playing and laughing in the rain, their joy uninhibited. Without hesitation, I grabbed my F100 and began to shoot. The results were some of the most candid and heartwarming images of my career. The F100 never let me down; it was always there, reliable, ready to capture life’s fleeting moments.