The Nikon F3 HP was available from March 1982. The camera body is a normal F3, but it was delivered with the DE-3 high-eyepoint viewfinder. This allows the view of the viewfinder image and the displays from a distance of 25 mm (instead of 17-18 mm with the DE-2 viewfinder) and is therefore especially suitable for people wearing glasses. The designation “HP” is only written on the viewfinder.
The lens of the Nikon F3 HP is exchangeable. A Nikon F lens mount was installed for this purpose. This lens mount was first introduced in 1959. Since that time it has been developed further and further. In addition to Nikon, lenses are also made by Sigma, Tokina, Tamron and others. Be careful though, not all lenses can be used with the old cameras. You have to focus the lens manually.
The Nikon F3 HP has a built-in light meter. It was designed for films with a speed of ISO 12 to ISO 6400. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure when it measures through the lens (TTL). The exposure is set automatically by the camera. The shutter speed and aperture can be freely selected.
The 35mm camera has a bulb mode. The shutter stays open as long as desired. An external flash can be used via the PC flash socket. The Nikon F3 HP has a built-in self-timer. It also comes with a thread for a cable release and tripod.
The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 14,8 x 10,1 x 6,9 cm. At this size her weight is 760 grams. The power supply for the 35mm camera is provided by two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon F3 HP
The Nikon F3 HP is an analogue camera and needs to be equipped with 35mm film. These are still easy to get today and development services are still around. A good film choice for the Japanese SLR camera are the Kodak Portra 400* (color film) and the AgfaPhoto APX 400* (black and white film).
The color film is a color negative film and must be developed in the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab.
The exposure area of the Nikon F3 HP is 24 mm x 36 mm big. As a rule, 36 shots are possible per film (135-36) at this negative size. The photographer must manually wind to the next image.
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 |
| Size | 14,8 x 10,1 x 6,9 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.83 x 3.98 x 2.72 inches |
| Weight | 760 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 641,51 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 | 572,64 Euro (619.13 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 601,33 Euro (650.52 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 623,52 Euro (674.34 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F3 HP
Is the Nikon F3 HP a manual focus camera?
Yes, the Nikon F3 HP is a manual focus camera. It doesn't have autofocus capabilities. You need to manually adjust the lens focus ring to achieve sharp images.
What kind of film does this old camera use?
The Nikon F3 HP uses standard 35mm film. You can use color or black and white film in this camera. Remember to advance the film manually after each shot.
How do I take pictures with a longer exposure time?
The camera has a 'bulb' setting. In bulb mode, the shutter stays open as long as you hold down the shutter release button, allowing for long exposures. This is great for night photography.
Can I use different lenses with the camera?
Yes, it uses a Nikon F bayonet mount. This means you can use a wide variety of lenses, though not all modern lenses are compatible. Many vintage Nikkor lenses work well.
What type of battery does the device need?
The Nikon F3 HP uses two LR44 batteries. These are readily available and relatively inexpensive. They power the built-in light meter.