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Review Summary
2014-03-24T21:00:00
I used an F5 professionally in 2000-03. I recently picked up another. Its probably the most capable preforming 35mm film camera ever in terms of speed of shooting, power auto film rewind, fast autofocus and build quality. It is however very large - this is the predecessor to Nikon's D1 - D4 line with the built in vertical grip.
JOHN G.
2013-06-17T21:00:00
I use the F5 for everything, from family to sports to fine art. The camera is "just" a light-tight box after all, but the F5 excels in a number of areas. It's nice and hefty, has a built-in fast motor drive, and a built-in vertical release button. It also works with all my older AI lenses. My body seems to be a bit slow to focus in very low light, that's the only negative I've found.
Pat S.
2013-06-09T21:00:00
I bought a used F5 from Adorama to replace a much older Nikon AF model (N6006) and to complement a D700 on the digital side. The matching of controls, and ability to use gelded digital lenses on the F5 body makes this an incredible steal in my eyes. The body is incredibly durable, and is virtually the same as a D700 with battery grip attached, so there was zero time spent getting used to the functionality, and the quality of the focus and metering is extremely high. The only real downside is the weight -- since the lower grip is not detachable as with the D700 (also a heavy camera), you're stuck carrying the bulk of the thing around with you at all times, but for everything else it can do, I can't fault it much for this. Definitely recommended, particularly at the price you can get one for used.
Alexander L.
2013-01-28T19:00:00
Excellent film camera for professional, Arts and student photographic work.
MIGUEL R.
2012-12-17T19:00:00
Ordered this camera from Adorama to save it from image oblivion...what a great piece of gear it is!! Well packaged and in great order I can use all my D & G series lenses, just wish I could get an MN-30 battery pack...what about it Adorama? Joking!! you guys really do a great job for us collectophiles, keep it up!
John E.
2012-09-23T21:00:00
Camera was delivered quickly. I was really surprised at the great condition of the camera. Really a great transaction.
RJ
2012-05-13T21:00:00
Built like a tank...you can drive nails with this thing. A lot of fun to use.
AARON P.
2012-02-05T19:00:00
The camera is used in general and medical photography requiring archival images. focusing is much quicker than my digital equipment. Overall, the F5 is a very functional instrument that enhances the ability of the photographer. The weight that some complain of, actually helps me steady the camera on long exposures.
JOHN O.
2012-01-15T19:00:00
Although I mostly use film either with a large format or medium format camera it's nice to be able to use a great 35mm camera when I want something that will enable quick action photography such as sports or wildlife or candid photography. This camera was the standard and professionals choice for many years and is still an excellent camera. Considering the present price for these camera it's like stealing. I purchased this F5 which was rated as E+ for a fraction of the price of it's original price. It can easily be passed off as a new camera both in appearance and performance. I plan on using this camera as long as film and darkroom chemicals are available. It's a great product, am totally satisfied and would suggest anyone still using film to purchase one of these wonderful cameras at their present ridiculous low prices while they last.
lone w.
2011-11-23T19:00:00
This camera I purchased from Adorama looks new and works great, I am spoiled, another will never do.I took on a hiking trip and pictures were sharp. WOW.
Ray
2011-11-14T19:00:00
I absolutely love this camera. There's just something about it. Although its huge it balances so amazingly well in one's hand. I own two other film cameras that although smaller aren't as well balance in my hand. Somehow, the heftyness of this camera works very well. This camera is great for everything except i'm new to using guide number which sucks haha. That's not the cameras fault mind you. Blame it on growing up with digital i guess, it just means there's a learning curve espcially if you always took flash photography for granted. You will either love this camer or hate it and i love it Hope that helps.
Joel
2011-09-10T21:00:00
the F5 is a true bargain. If you want one, get it and shoot film as you never have. The view finder is the only weak point in this performer as the focus points are not as distinct as they should be. If that is an issue, get an F100.
ROBERT K.
2011-09-03T21:00:00
It is large and heavy and I don't shoot much film. When shooting film is important, however, I always take this camera with me. And now that almost no one is shooting film, it can be purchased at a most reasonable price.
M M.
2008-12-28T19:00:00
I've had my eye on an F5 for years. In the mean time I went digital--all the way. I have a Nikon D300 (as well as my older D200 and D70s). I still like to shoot film from time to time, usually with Fuji Velvia 50. I get the digital scans of the slides, so I do have the option to use the photos digitally in web sites and general digital darkroom manipulation. I just love the feel and ergonomics of the F5. Yes, as they say, it is the best 35mm camera ever made. I love it. Adorama had its condition listed as E. This baby is just like new. I can't perceive any wear on it at all. It certainly isn't a camera that some pro or photojournalist beat to death.
twk53
35mm SLR (Single-Lens Reflex)
Nikon F mount (Nikkor and Nikon Lenses having Nikon F mount)
Autofocus, and Manual with Electronic Rangefinder
Single Servo AF with Focus-Priority and Continuous Servo AF with Release-Priority
Approx. EV -1 to EV +19 (at ISO 100)
Nikon advanced EC-B-type screen; interchangeable with 12 other optional screens
Programmed Auto, Shutter-Priority Auto, Aperture-Priority Auto and Manual
Three built-in exposure meters - 3D Color Matrix, Center-Weighted and Spot
(at ISO 100 with f/1.4 lens) EV 0 to EV 20 in 3D Color Matrix and Center-Weighted, EV 2 to EV 20 in Spot
ISO 25 to 5000 for DX-coded film; ISO 6 to 6400 can be manually set
+/- 1/3rd, 1/2, 2/3rd or 1.0 EV increments
+ 5 EV range, in 1/3 EV steps
1/8000 to 30 sec. (in 1/3 step);
yes
Yes, 10 sec delay
No
Yes
na
approx. 8 fps, in CL mode, shooting speed is approx. 3 fps, and in CS approx. 1 fps using Ni-MH Battery Unit MN-30; in CH mode, shooting speed is approx. 7.4 fps, in CL mode, shooting speed is approx. 3 fps, and in CS approx. 1 fps using AA-type batteries
Nikon Multi-Meter Finder DP-30 provided as standard; fixed eyelevel pentaprism high-eyepoint type
Metering system, In-focus indicator, Focus area, Exposure mode, Aperture, Shutter speed, AE Lock, Analog exposure display, Exposure compensation, Flash ready light & Frame counter
Aperture, Shutter speed, Aperture/shutter speed lock, Exposure mode, Focus mode, Focus area, Custom setting, Exposure compensation, Autobracketing, Flash sync mode, Electronic analog display, Battery power, Frame counter & PC Link indicator
Yes
No
Yes (-3 to +1, with additional diopters available)
Optional (MC-20 with timer, or MC-30 trigger)
Yes
Eight AA-type Lithium batteries or optional Ni-MH Battery Unit MN-30
6.2 x 5.9 x 3.1" (157 x 150 x 79mm)
2.67 lb (1211 g)
Film is not dead!
By twk53
I've had my eye on an F5 for years. In the mean time I went digital--all the way. I have a Nikon D300 (as well as my older D200 and D70s). I still like to shoot film from time to time, usually with Fuji Velvia 50. I get the digital scans of the slides, so I do have the option to use the photos digitally in web sites and general digital darkroom manipulation. I just love the feel and ergonomics of the F5. Yes, as they say, it is the best 35mm camera ever made. I love it. Adorama had its co...
View full Review
Incredible bang/buck ratio
By Alexander L.
I bought a used F5 from Adorama to replace a much older Nikon AF model (N6006) and to complement a D700 on the digital side. The matching of controls, and ability to use gelded digital lenses on the F5 body makes this an incredible steal in my eyes. The body is incredibly durable, and is virtually the same as a D700 with battery grip attached, so there was zero time spent getting used to the functionality, and the quality of the focus and metering is extremely high. The only real downside ...
View full Review