The Nikon FE2 is a single lens reflex camera. It was produced by Nikon between 1983 and 1987. It is the successor of the Nikon FE. The camera was sold in a silver-chrome or completely black version.
The lens of the Nikon FE2 is interchangeable. A Nikon F lens mount was installed for this purpose. In the late 1950s, the Nikon F bayonet was introduced. Since that time it has been the standard at Nikon and was not abandoned with the introduction of an autofocus.
Other suppliers of lenses, besides Nikon, of compatible lenses are Tamron, Tokina, Sigma and Samyang. But not all modern camera lenses can be used with the old film cameras. You have to focus the lens by hand. The 35mm camera does not have an autofocus function.
For photography, the Nikon FE2 has a light meter. It is designed for an ISO range of 12 to 4000. The exposure is measured through the lens. The exposure time is set automatically by the 35 mm camera if desired. The user only has to set the aperture himself. The aperture and exposure time can also be set freely by the photographer.
The Nikon FE2 has a bulb setting. In this mode, the shutter will open as long as the shutter release button is pressed. An external flash can be used via the hot shoe or PC flash port. The Nikon FE2 comes with a self-timer. There is also a connector for a cable release and a thread for a tripod.
The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 14,2 x 9 x 5,7 cm. At this size her weight is 550 grams. The power supply comes from two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon FE2
The Nikon FE2 was built for the 35mm format. These are still easy to get today and development services are still around. A possible film for color photography is the Kodak Ultramax 400*. One option for b/w images is the Ilford FP4 Plus*.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Nikon F lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/4000 second to 8 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 4000 |
| Exposure modes | Aperture priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 2EV (0,3EV to) |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/250 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x LR44 batteries |
| Size | 14,2 x 9 x 5,7 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.59 x 3.54 x 2.24 inches |
| Weight | 550 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| End of production | 1987 |
| Production duration | 4 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 311,84 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 100 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 264,94 Euro (285.75 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 282,48 Euro (305.24 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 296,42 Euro (320.39 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon FE2
Is this camera automatic or manual?
The Nikon FE2 is primarily a manual camera. While it has an automatic exposure mode, you manually set the aperture, and it offers full manual control over both aperture and shutter speed for complete creative freedom.
What kind of lenses can I use with this 35mm camera?
It uses Nikon F-mount lenses, so you can use a wide variety of lenses. Many third-party manufacturers like Tokina, Tamron, and Samyang also make compatible lenses, but not all modern lenses will work.
Does the Nikon FE2 have autofocus?
No, the Nikon FE2 is a manual focus camera. You'll need to adjust the focus ring on the lens yourself to achieve sharp images. This gives you more control over the final image.
How does the light meter in this film camera work?
The light meter in the Nikon FE2 measures light through the lens and works with ISO speeds from 12 to 4000. It helps you determine the correct shutter speed, though you still set the aperture.
What type of film does the device use?
The Nikon FE2 uses standard 35mm film. These are readily available and easy to develop at most photo labs. Both color and black and white films can be used.