The Nikon F Photomic FTn is a single lens reflex camera. It dates from the 1960s and is based on the original Nikon F. The big difference is the viewfinder with built-in light meter.
The lens of the 35mm photo camera is changeable. It comes with a Nikon F bayonet. The Nikkor Auto 50 mm f/1.4 is often found with the 35mm camera. The lens mount was developed by Nikon in the 50s. In the course of time, the lens mount has been revised and developed several times. Lenses are not only manufactured by Nikon itself. But be careful, not all lenses can be used with the old cameras. The Nikon F Photomic FTn has no autofocus. It is focused manually.
For taking pictures, the camera has an exposure meter. It is designed for films from ISO 6 to ISO 6400. The correct exposure is measured through the lens. The aperture and exposure time can be freely set by the photographer. There is no automatic exposure control.
The 35 mm camera has a bulb mode. In this mode, the films are exposed as long as the shutter release button is pressed. A flash can be used via the PC flash socket. A tripod can be connected to the Nikon F Photomic FTn. A cable release can also be used with the camera. In addition, the self-timer can be used for taking pictures.
The 35mm camera weighs 850 grams according to the manual. Two 1.3V mercury batteries are used for power supply. These are necessary for the light meter, otherwise the camera works mechanically without power.
Films for the Nikon F Photomic FTn
Without 35mm films, the Nikon F Photomic FTn does not work. 35mm films are still produced today and can be developed in most photo labs. A 35mm film for color pictures is the Kodak Ultramax 400*. A possible black and white film is the Ilford FP4 Plus*.
The color film is designed for development in the C-41 process. This development process is offered by most laboratories. The exposure area of the Nikon F Photomic FTn is 24 mm x 36 mm big. The film must be winded manually by the photographer.
The Nikon F Photomic FTn you can only buy used. The prices for the camera vary depending on the condition.
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 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 6 to 6400 |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x 1.3 V mercury batteries |
| Weight | 850 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 377,21 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 93 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 399,89 Euro (431.88 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 400,35 Euro (432.96 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 388,23 Euro (419.97 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F Photomic FTn
Is the Nikon F Photomic FTn a digital or film camera?
It's a film camera, specifically a 35mm camera. It uses film rolls and doesn't have any digital components. The images are captured on film and then developed later.
How do I focus the lens on this old camera?
The Nikon F Photomic FTn has manual focus. You'll need to manually adjust the lens to achieve sharp focus on your subject. There's no autofocus feature.
Does this camera have any automatic settings?
No, it doesn't have automatic settings for exposure. You manually set the aperture and shutter speed. However, it does have a built-in light meter to help you determine the correct settings.
What kind of film does this 35mm camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film rolls. You can use various types, including color and black and white films. The light meter works with ISO 6 to 6400 film.
Can I use a flash with this camera?
Yes, you can use a flash. The camera has a PC flash sync socket for connecting external flash units. You'll need to set the shutter speed manually to accommodate the flash.