The Nikon F3 H is a single lens reflex camera. The model was introduced in the mid-90s. The “H” stands for High Speed. With the fixed pellicle mirror and the modified MD-4H motor up to 13 frames per second are possible. So you fill 36 frame films in just 3 seconds.
The Nikon F3 H features exchangeable lenses. A Nikon F lens mount was installed for this purpose. In the late 1950s, the Nikon F mount was introduced. Later on, the upgrade to use an autofocus followed. Lenses are sold by Nikon under the Nikkor brand. But there is also a wide range of lenses from other manufacturers. Not all modern camera lenses can be used with the old film cameras. The Nikon F3 H has no autofocus. It is manually focused.
The Nikon F3 H is fitted with a built-in light meter. It can be used for films in an ISO range of 12 to 6400. As with most SLR cameras, exposure is measured trough the lens. The aperture and shutter speed can be set by the Nikon F3 H automatically. The desired exposure time as well as the number of f-stops can be set by the user.
The camera comes with a bulb mode. An external flash unit can be connected to the PC flash socket. The Nikon F3 H has a thread for a tripod and cable release. It also has a self-timer.
The camera needs two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*). The motor is powered by additional AA batteries.
Films for the Nikon F3 H
The Nikon F3 H takes pictures on 35mm film. Films of this format are still easy to get today and are still being developed. Possible films for the Nikon F3 H are the Kodak Ultramax 400* and the AgfaPhoto APX 400*.
The development process for the color film is the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab.
The exposure area of the model is 24 mm x 36 mm big. A 135-36 film can hold at least 36 shots. The film is winded manually in the camera.
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 | 1/2000 second to 8 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 6400 |
| Exposure modes | Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 2EV (0,5EV to) |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/80 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x LR44 batteries |
| Estimated value / Used price | 571,64 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 7 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 432,35 Euro (467.60 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 209,08 Euro (226.22 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 969,85 Euro (1048.85 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F3 H
How many pictures can I take per second with this Nikon camera?
The Nikon F3 H is a high-speed camera, capable of shooting up to 13 frames per second. This allows you to shoot a whole 36-exposure roll of film in just 3 seconds. This makes it perfect for capturing fast-paced action.
Does this 35mm film camera have autofocus?
No, the Nikon F3 H does not have autofocus. It uses manual focus, requiring you to adjust the lens manually to achieve sharp focus. This gives you more control over your images.
What kind of lens mount does the Nikon F3H use?
It uses a Nikon F bayonet mount, a very long-standing and popular system. This means you can use a wide variety of lenses, though not all modern lenses are compatible with film cameras.
How does the light meter work on this film camera?
The Nikon F3 H's light meter measures light through the lens and automatically sets the exposure. You can also manually adjust aperture and shutter speed to fine-tune your shots.
What type of batteries does the camera need?
The Nikon F3 H requires two LR44 batteries for its basic functions and additional AA batteries to power the motor for high-speed shooting. The type of batteries needed is mentioned in the manual