The Nikon EL2 is a 35mm camera. It is part of the group of single lens reflex cameras She is the predecessor of the Nikon FE and was the successor of the Nikkormat ELW.
The lenses of the Nikon EL2 can be changed. A Nikon F lens mount was installed for this purpose. The Nikon F bayonet was first introduced in the 1950s. Over the years, the connection has been revised time and again.
Lenses are sold by Nikon under the Nikkor brand. But there is also a wide range of lenses from other manufacturers. Caution is advised, however, as not all lenses can be used with all cameras. The Nikon EL2 does not provide autofocus system. Focusing is manual.
The camera comes with an exposure meter. The exposure is measured through the lens. The aperture and exposure time can be freely adjusted according to the photographers wishes.
If you want to take long time pictures, there is the bulb-setting. The shutter stays open as long as desired. An external flash can be used via the hot shoe or PC flash port. The 35mm camera has a thread for a tripod. In addition, there is a connector for a cable release and a self-timer.
The camera needs one 1,5V LR44 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon EL2
For taking pictures with the Nikon EL2, 35mm films are needed. These films are still being produced and the development is offered by most photo labs. One option for b/w images is the Kodak T-Max 100*. A possible film for color pictures is the Fujifilm Superia 400*.
The color film is processed in the C-41 process. The C-41 process is standardized and is offered by most development laboratories.
The exposure area of the Nikon EL2 is 24 mm x 36 mm big. As a rule, 36 shots are possible per film (135-36) at this negative size. The film in the camera must be winded manually, as there is no automatic film transport.
The Nikon EL2 you can only buy used. The price for a used copy of the depends on the condition and functionality.
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 | 1/1000 second to 8 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Aperture priority, Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x LR44 battery |
| Estimated value / Used price | 141,49 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 29 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 187,83 Euro (202.41 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 183,54 Euro (198.08 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 240,42 Euro (259.78 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon EL2
Is the Nikon EL2 a digital or film camera?
The Nikon EL2 is a film camera, specifically a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera. It uses interchangeable lenses and requires manual film advancement.
Can I use any lenses with this camera?
The Nikon EL2 uses Nikon's F-mount bayonet, allowing for interchangeable lenses. However, not all lenses designed for this mount are compatible with all cameras due to changes made over the years. Focus is always manual.
How do I control the exposure?
The Nikon EL2 has a built-in light meter to help determine the exposure. You manually select both the shutter speed and the aperture to achieve the desired exposure.
What kind of film does the camera take?
The Nikon EL2 uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white films work, and you'll need to manually advance the film after each shot.
Does the camera have any special features?
Yes, it includes a bulb mode for long exposures, hot shoe and PC flash connections for external flashes, a self-timer, and a tripod mount for stability.