The Nikon F-801S is a single lens reflex camera. The camera is from the early 90s. It replaced the F-801.
The lenses of the camera can be exchanged. Lenses with a Nikon F bayonet can be used. The first camera with F-bayonet was introduced by Nikon in the 1950s. Over the years, it has been further developed by Nikon again and again.
As a photographer you can choose from over 400 lenses from Nikon and other manufacturers. Not all modern lenses can be used with the old film cameras. Manual focusing is not necessary with the 35mm camera. The Nikon F-801S has an autofocus. This has been improved compared to its predecessor.
For taking pictures, the 35mm camera has an exposure meter. The Nikon F-801S determines the correct film speed via the DX code. The correct exposure is measured through the lens. The exposure settings are automatically controlled and adjusted by the SLR. The exposure time can be set manually. The aperture is also freely selectable. Spot metering is also available.
A bulb setting is available on the camera. An external flash unit can be used with the 35 mm camera via hot shoe. The Nikon F-801S has a self-timer and a tripod thread.
The power supply for the 35mm camera is provided by vier AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon F-801S
The Nikon F-801S needs photo film, more precisely 35mm film. 35mm films are still produced today and are quite easy to get. Possible films for the Nikon F-801S are the Kodak Portra 400* for color shots and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for b/w photos.
The color film is being developed in the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab.
The exposure area of the Nikon F-801S is 24 mm x 36 mm big. When the exposure area is this size, 36 photos usually fit on a normal film (135-36). The film is automatically transported by the camera.
Nikon N8008S
As with many SLRs from Nikon, there is also a name for the American market. In this case, the functionally identical model was sold under the name “Nikon N8008S”.
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 |
| Names in other markets | USA: Nikon N8008S |
| Estimated value / Used price | 131,10 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 58 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 136,42 Euro (147.21 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 140,56 Euro (151.54 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 133,56 Euro (143.96 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F-801S
Is this camera easy to use for a beginner?
Yes, the Nikon F-801S has autofocus, making focusing simple. It also offers automatic exposure control, simplifying the process of getting correctly exposed photos. While manual controls are available for more advanced users, beginners can rely on the automatic settings.
What kind of lenses can I use with this old camera?
The Nikon F-801S uses Nikon F-mount lenses. There's a vast selection of lenses available, both from Nikon and third-party manufacturers, though not all modern lenses are compatible with older film cameras.
How many pictures can I take on a single roll of film?
This 35mm camera holds a standard 36-exposure roll of film. The film automatically advances to the next frame after each shot, making it easy to capture multiple images.
Does the camera have any automatic features?
Yes, the Nikon F-801S features autofocus, automatic exposure control, and automatic film advance. It also has a built-in light meter to help determine correct exposure settings.
What kind of batteries does the device need?
The Nikon F-801S runs on four standard AA batteries. These are readily available and inexpensive, making it convenient to keep the camera powered up.