The Nikon F4E is a 35mm camera. It was presented in the 1990s. As with F4S, a battery pack with portrait shutter release is attached to the camera, but in a different form, called MB-23, which takes special batteries that allow a continuous shooting speed of 5.7 frames per second. This version was first only delivered in Japan, later it was also sold in Europe.
The lens of the Nikon F4E is exchangeable. A Nikon F lens mount was installed for this purpose. The first cameras with this connector were introduced in the 1950s. Over the years, the Anschluss has been steadily improved.
Other manufacturers of matching lenses include Sigma, Tokina, Tamron and Samyang. Not all modern lenses can be used with the old film cameras. The camera is equipped with an autofocus.
The camera has a built-in light meter. It is designed for an ISO range of 6 to 6400. The camera determines the correct film speed using the DX code. The exposure measurement is performed through the lens. The aperture and shutter speed is automatically set by the camera. The desired exposure time as well as the number of f-stops can be set by the user.
The 35mm camera comes with a bulb mode. The shutter stays open as long as desired. A external flash can be connected via the PC flash port or Hot Shoe. The 35mm camera has a self-timer. There is also a thread for a tripod.
The camera takes six AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon F4E
Which films are required for the Nikon F4E? The camera is designed for 35mm films. This type of film is still being produced and can be processed by most photo laboratories without any problems. For black-and-white 35mm shots, the Kodak T-Max 100* a good choice. For color images you can use the Agfaphoto Vista 200*.
The colour film is a colour negative film and must be developed in the C-41 process. The C-41 process is offered by almost every photo lab.
The negatives of camera have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. The film in the camera is transported automatically.
The Nikon F4E can today only be found used. The condition and functionality of the camera determine the price for a used copy.
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 4 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 | ± 2EV (0,3EV to) |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/250 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Estimated value / Used price | 388,38 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 19 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 279,00 Euro (301.99 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 236,96 Euro (255.45 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 273,79 Euro (295.50 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F4E
Is this camera a digital or film camera?
The Nikon F4E is a film camera, specifically a 35mm camera. It uses traditional film rolls, which need to be developed after use. It's not a digital camera.
How does the camera focus?
The Nikon F4E has a built-in autofocus system that helps you get sharp pictures. It works with interchangeable lenses. It also allows manual focusing if you prefer.
What kind of batteries does the device use?
This 35mm camera runs on six AA batteries. These are readily available and easy to replace. They provide power for the autofocus, meter, and other functions.
Can I use different lenses with it?
Yes, the Nikon F4E uses the Nikon F bayonet mount, which means it's compatible with a wide range of lenses from Nikon and other manufacturers like Tokina and Tamron. Note that compatibility may vary between older and newer lenses.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, it has a built-in light meter for exposure control. It works with ISO 6 to 6400 films. The camera will automatically adjust shutter speed and aperture or allow you to adjust them manually.