The Nikon FM2 is a 35mm camera. It is part of the group of single lens reflex cameras and was built by the camera company Nikon in the 1980s. Later an updated version, the Nikon FM2n, was introduced.
The lens of the Nikon FM2 is exchangeable. A Nikon F lens mount was installed for this purpose. This lens connector was first introduced in 1959. Unlike other manufacturers, the bayonet was not changed with the introduction of autofocus.
Other manufacturers, besides Nikon, of compatible lenses include Tokina, Tamron, Sigma and Samyang. Although the bayonet has not changed too much, not all lenses can be used with all cameras. You have to focus the lens manually.
The 35mm film camera has an exposure meter. It was designed to work with films between ISO 12 and ISO 6400. The exposure is measured through the lens. The aperture and shutter speed are freely adjustable.
If you want to take long time pictures, there is the bulb-setting. An external flash can be used via the hot shoe or PC flash port. The Nikon FM2 has a built-in self-timer and an option to connect a cable release. There is also a thread for a tripod.
The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 14,2 x 9 x 6 cm. At this size her weight is 540 grams. The power supply comes from two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon FM2
For taking pictures with the Nikon FM2, 35mm films are needed. 35mm films are still produced by different producers. Two great films for the 35mm camera are the Kodak Portra 400* and the AgfaPhoto APX 400*. Both can be used to take beautiful color or black and white pictures.
The color film is being developed in the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab.
The Nikon FM2 exposes an area of 24 mm x 36 mm. The photographer has to wind the film manually.
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 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 6400 |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/200 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x LR44 batteries |
| Size | 14,2 x 9 x 6 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.59 x 3.54 x 2.36 inches |
| Weight | 540 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 458,61 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 | 433,22 Euro (468.68 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 488,46 Euro (528.21 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 470,89 Euro (508.73 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon FM2
Is this camera a digital camera or a film camera?
The Nikon FM2 is a 35mm film camera. It uses film rolls, not digital memory cards, to capture images. The film needs to be developed later to get the photos.
How do I focus the lens on this Nikon camera?
The Nikon FM2 doesn't have autofocus. You have to manually adjust the focus using the lens's focusing ring. This requires a little practice to get sharp images.
Can I use different lenses with this camera?
Yes, the Nikon FM2 uses interchangeable lenses. It has a Nikon F bayonet mount, allowing you to use a wide variety of Nikon lenses, though not all are compatible.
Does the camera have a built-in flash?
No, the Nikon FM2 does not have a built-in flash. However, you can use an external flash unit via the hot shoe or PC flash connection.
What kind of batteries does the device need?
The Nikon FM2 requires two LR44 batteries to power its light meter. These are readily available and relatively inexpensive.