The Nikon F65 is a single lens reflex camera. The 35mm camera was produced by Nikon. It is the predecessor of the Nikon F75.
In addition, a variant with data backplane was produced. It has a 24-hour clock with an accuracy of ±90 seconds per month. Settings for the leap year setting until December 31, 2049 are available. It can image in several formats, including M/D/Y, D/M/Y, Y/M/D, D/H/M, and without imprint.
The lens of the Nikon F65 is interchangeable. It features a Nikon F lens mount. This lens connector was first introduced in 1959. Over the years, the Anschluss has been steadily improved. Lenses are not just made by Nikon itself but also other brands. Caution is advised, however, as not all lenses can be used with all cameras. The camera has an autofocus.
The Nikon F65 has a built-in light meter. It was designed for films in a range between ISO 25 and ISO 5000. The camera determines the correct film speed using the DX code. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure when it measures through the lens (TTL). The Nikon F65 has an automatic exposure mode. The photographer cannot choose the aperture and shutter speed. The shutter speed and aperture can be selected by the photographer.
The Nikon F65 has a built-in flash. An external flash can be used with the 35mm camera via hot shoe. The 35mm camera comes with a thread for a tripod. A self-timer is also built in.
At a weight of 395 grams the size of the Nikon F65 is 13,9 x 9,2 x 6,5 cm. The camera needs two CR2 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon F65
What films do you need for the Nikon F65? It need 35mm film. 35mm films are still produced today and can be developed in most photo labs. Possible films for the Nikon F65 are the Kodak Portra 400* and the Ilford HP5*.
The development process for the color film is the C-41 process. This development process is carried out by all photo laboratories offering the development of 35mm films.
The negatives of the Nikon F65 have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. The films are automatically transported by the camera. The motor allows up to 2.5 shots per second.
Nikon N65 & Nikon U
Under the name Nikon N65 the model was introduced in the USA. Consumers from Japan could buy the camera as Nikon U.
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 | 1/2000 second to 30 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 5000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 2EV (0,5EV to) |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/90 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x CR2 batteries |
| Size | 13,9 x 9,2 x 6,5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.47 x 3.62 x 2.56 inches |
| Weight | 395 Grams |
| Names in other markets | USA: Nikon N65, Japan: Nikon U |
| Estimated value / Used price | 80,39 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 68 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 64,24 Euro (69.27 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 65,08 Euro (70.36 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 73,88 Euro (79.02 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F65
Is the Nikon F65 a good camera for beginners?
Yes, the Nikon F65 is specifically designed as an entry-level SLR camera. Its features are relatively straightforward, making it easy to learn and use, even for those new to photography.
What kind of film does this 35mm camera use?
The Nikon F65 uses standard 35mm film. You can find a wide variety of color and black and white films readily available. It automatically advances the film after each shot.
Can I use different lenses with the Nikon F65?
Yes, the Nikon F65 uses the Nikon F bayonet mount, allowing you to use a variety of interchangeable lenses. However, compatibility might vary with older lenses.
How does the camera measure light for proper exposure?
The Nikon F65 has a built-in light meter that reads the ISO from the film's DX code (or defaults to ISO 100 if no DX code is present). It measures the light through the lens for accurate exposure.
Does the camera have a built-in flash?
Yes, the Nikon F65 has a built-in flash for low-light situations. It also features a hot shoe for using external flash units if needed, providing greater flexibility for lighting scenarios.