The Nikon F5 is a single lens reflex camera. It was built by Nikon between 1996 and 2004. She is the predecessor of the Nikon F6 and was the successor of the Nikon F4.
The lenses of the Nikon F5 can be easily interchanged. It features a Nikon F lens mount. More than 60 years ago, the first lens with the Nikon F mount was introduced. Later on, the upgrade to use an autofocus followed. For the Nikon F bayonet, there are over 400 lenses from Nikon and other manufacturers. Be careful though, not all lenses can be used with the old cameras. The camera has an autofocus.
The Nikon F5 has an integrated light meter. It can adjust the exposure for films with a sensitivity of ISO 6 to ISO 6400. The camera determines the correct film sensitivity using the DX code. The exposure is measured through the lens. Exposure settings are set automatically by the camera. The aperture and shutter speed can be freely selected by the photographer.
The Bulb mode can be used for long exposures. With the PC flash port and the hot shoe it is possible to use a flash. The Nikon F5 has a self-timer and tripod thread.
The camera weighs 1210 grams and the dimensions are 15,8 x 14,9 x 7,9 cm. The camera needs eight AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon F5
The Nikon F5 needs photo film, more precisely 35mm film. For this film format, there is still a good selection of material for color and black and white images. Possible films for the Nikon F5 are the Kodak Ultramax 400* and the AgfaPhoto APX 400*.
The color film is a negative film and is processed in the C-41 development process. This is offered by almost every photo lab.
The exposure area of the Nikon F5 has a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. A typical 35mm film takes about 36 pictures at this size. The film is transported automatically. The motor is capable of up to 8 frames per second.
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, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/250 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 4x AA batteries |
| Size | 15,8 x 14,9 x 7,9 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 6.22 x 5.87 x 3.11 inches |
| Weight | 1210 Grams |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Production duration | 8 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 518,31 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 99 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 547,44 Euro (592.07 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 476,75 Euro (515.22 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 474,85 Euro (513.06 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F5
Can I use different lenses with this Nikon camera?
Yes, the Nikon F5 uses interchangeable lenses thanks to the Nikon F bayonet mount. Many manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron make lenses compatible with it, but check compatibility as not all modern lenses work with older models.
How does the camera measure the light for taking pictures?
The camera has a built-in light meter that measures the light through the lens. It automatically sets the aperture and shutter speed, but you can also adjust these manually. It also reads the film's ISO speed from the DX code.
What kind of film does this 35mm camera use?
The Nikon F5 uses standard 35mm film. You can easily find both color and black and white films at most photography stores. The camera automatically advances the film after each shot.
What is the shooting speed of the Nikon F5?
The Nikon F5 is a fast camera! It can shoot up to 8 frames per second using the motor drive, allowing you to capture fast-paced action.
What type of batteries does the device need?
The Nikon F5 needs eight standard AA batteries for power. These are easily available and relatively inexpensive.