I suspect that the Nikkormat's role today is the same as it was back in the day. If you want to shoot vintage Nikon glass you are likely to go for a Nikon F or F2- nowadays- they are affordable and iconic. The Nikkormats are to round out the collection and give you some variety. My Nikon kit includes an F, F2 Nikkormat FT, FT2 and an EL. They are all in regular rotation and they are a lot of fun to use!
I really like the FTn, I’ve got one along with an F, F2, and F3 (amongst other non-Nikon film cameras). The biggest problem I’ve got with my FTn is the focusing screen, which is just a multiprism (no split prism). Some of the later ones came with split prisms, but I really like the look of the early ones. I did buy a replacement split prism screen on eBay, and will be having a local camera technician swap them shortly. The thing I like about the camera the most is how quiet the copal shutter is. It’s no Leica, but it’s considerably quieter than the Nikon F, F2, and F3. Not to mention that it’s a much lighter camera, as well. Overall, I’m glad I have it, and glad I have the one I have. It’s previous and original owner was a paleontologist who used it to photograph a bunch of museum specimens in the 70s, and then when he’d retired it from travel use used it as a macro rig in his own lab for years, so it’s got an awesome history
I have had every camera from the list below. contax,canon,fujica,konica,leica,minolta,nikon,olympus,pentax,rollei,yashica.and the only one I love and have is nikkormat ft2/3.i have 4 in total.absolutely beautiful cameras.
The background music volume is.... SO fucking distracting. Good work with the camera but... christ.. that music and its not exactly a subtle mix. I really had to listen to hear what was being said
I worked for several years as a newspaper photographer and my Domke bag held a Nikon F2 and either a Nikkormat FTn or, later FT2. Experience has convinced me that the Nikkormats are every bit as solid and reliable as the F2s. I am still using both, but I wore out the Domke and had to replace it with another one.
The Nikkormat Ft/Ftn/FT2/FT3 cameras were made when film SLR cameras were built to last. I have a Nikon Ftn Photomic and a Nikkormat FT2 and the Nikkormat is just as solid and durable as the F in my opinion. I like that the shutter speed ring on the Nikkormat is on the camera body around the lens mount it's proximity to the lens aperture ring is real handy don't have to remove a hand from the camera to reach up and turn the shutter speed dial as on the F.
Agreed, both are solid and can't go wrong either way. I do like having the removable prism for waist shooting but it is so convenient having the shutter ring by the lens so I never have to move to adjust.
@@graham_white One of the fun things about taking photos with my old film SLR's is I get asked 'what kind of camera is that?' quite often. The 'youngest' film camera in my collection is a Nikon FG circa 1985. In this age of auto-everything digital cameras (and smart phones); somebody using a film camera which requires focusing and exposure setting is a curiosity.
Also a south paw so I completely get what you are saying. And yes you are right. This was back in the days when I always said “meh, I’m sure the seals are fine” and just put rolls into everything. 🤦♂️🤷♂️ not anymore though that’s for sure. Thanks for the input!
Here is a good story, I am walking to Fort Point (Oldest US Army in the West Coast-1861) So I am walking through the Fort with my Nikkormat with a 50mm 2.0 with Nikon Metal Lens Shade, as after climbing down the stone stairs that the Strap rings were light that they snap OFF the strap, and my camera was bouncing down the stone stairs as if hit the bottom of the floor that the Ranger seen it as he came to my aid, and he told me is it broken, and I looked through the screen the meter was still working, the shutters were still working, as I check the film door that it was still LOCK!!, The only thing that was broken was the Lens shade that the clamp was bent. My Nikkormat is built like a TANK, and I got mine in 1975 as I still have it today... These bodies were alike the F's, Tough, and Durable to handle. Just wish that the PX625 original battery was still around as if they can only make a battery that is 1.35 volt than the 1.50 volt, well I read that I can get an adapter but still without the battery it is still my second, and third backup as I got another or found a Nikkormat Black body at where I work at the camera store.. Again they are like TANKS!!! I also have the Nikkormat ELW, and Nikon ELW with also the drives.
1 huge failing… early pre ai lenses with non scallop aperture make it difficult to not keep turning the indexing dial at same time as changing aperture
Got the FTN first and wanted an F just because it's the F. I'm currently servicing a well worn Nikon F and I actually prefer the FTN. It feels like a much more cohesive package. Yes, the F started the SLR dominance, but the FTN cut the fat and got to the point. Though, if I'm being honest, I'm currently running a Pentax ME Super as my main with a Canon FTB and Sears TLS as mechanical backups. Still love the FTN though.
The light meter uses a mercury batter no longer available. Actually very easy to use, don't forget it is designed for semi pro use who would soon find all the controls come easy to hand. Sounds like you are used to too much automation 😂
Hi Grahm, great video. I have this model and love it. no mirror bounce and meter works. great manual camera. a little quirky to get used to but it gets easier. Thanks and hope you make more vids.
I've loved Nikkormat cameras ever since I was a kid, and now that I'm not a kid, they are affordable. LOL. Excellent video, loved the content, subscribed! Take care, -Scott
I have a couple of Af-D lenses that I want to use on a Nikkormat, I know it doesn't have the rabbit ears, but will the camera shoot at whatever aperture I put the lens Af-D lenses at?? Metering is not a problem because I want to practice sunny 16
Ralph Cedric Basco if I remember correctly you should have no problem doing that. Like you said you just have to manually do metering. You would have to add rabbit ears or an adapter to use light meter. Remember the Nikkormat and lens have to be set in a specific position to mount.
very genuine what you do in your channel, keep going, I see thousands of followers in the future! great camera, I've been with her for 10 years, about 50 rolls with her and I love it. regards!
I really love your reviewing process. I appreciate how you gave in depth background of the camera, metering demonstration, shooting process, and examining photo results. All tied in with good camera work and editing. Keep this up man. This is exactly what we need more of. I’m not sure why your channel hasn’t blown up yet but you did a great job putting this video together. I hope you can do spotlight some other film cameras like the Nikon F or the Minolta you talked about. Liked and subscribed.
Who the heck is paying a hundred bucks for an FTn? At KEH and UsedPhotoPro FTn's in very good/bargain condition go for $35 and excellent condition for $55. Great video by the way; loved the viewfinder graphics!
lol I agree. They did include a lens or lenses but even with that it's not worth it. Unfortunately, just about every film camera is quickly being listed way over value. Thanks! Think I am going to incorporate a lot more graphics even though it is very time intensive.
I got one without a lens for ten untested on eBay. All the important stuff worked. There are some deals out there but there's a crowd of college kids with rich parents getting into film photography right now so the prices on a lot of stuff is jacked.
depends. the FM definitely has more features and settings but the ft has a better build that will most likely last much longer. Plus is fully mechanical. I believe the fm requires a battery to operate anything other than 125 of a second but can't remember off the top of my head. pros and cons to both.
I actually had a FT3, and later sold it because of some mechanical issues and it's weird setup of controls. Currently I have a FE2 and an EL2. If I am getting a FT series again, I will be getting the FT3, because all my Nikon lenses except the 50mm f2 and 55mm f3.5 (both factory AI'd) are AF-D and Series E AI-s, which do not have the rabbit ears, and I do use the in-camera meter all the time.
It is an interesting setup but yeah I'm sure any mechanical issues are a beast because of it. I have debated trying to fix the aperture so it's smoother but don't think its worth the hassle right now. The FE2 is a great camera and I love the newer compact AI lenses, but I have the Nikkor S 55mm 1.2 that keeps me tied to some of the older models. I did just recently find the an FT3 though And I it has a nicer adjustment lever for the aperture and seems the design is a little more refined.
Try lifting the AI Cam pin up by pressing the button, and then use the 50mm 2.0, and the 55mm3.5 as you use Stop Down Metering by pressing the Depth of Preview button down while adjusting the F/stop ring, and then try to point the needle to the middle to get normal exposure.. I try it with the FM, and ELW it still works...
Your presentation is excellent, but the "background" music is a bit too loud - it doesn't stay in the background.
ItsJim agreed. I believe I uploaded the previous export before I adjusted the audio. Thanks!
Put music without lyrics, it is very confusing
I wanted a mechanical Nikon. I considered the FM but after more research I chose the FTN. Underrated and very capable. A classic.
Completely agree
Content EXCELLENT. Music VERY distracting ☹️
No lyrics for monologue sections it's very difficult to listen to
Turn off the music is confusing
Informative but drop the music.
and much of the irrelevant B-roll
I suspect that the Nikkormat's role today is the same as it was back in the day. If you want to shoot vintage Nikon glass you are likely to go for a Nikon F or F2- nowadays- they are affordable and iconic. The Nikkormats are to round out the collection and give you some variety. My Nikon kit includes an F, F2 Nikkormat FT, FT2 and an EL. They are all in regular rotation and they are a lot of fun to use!
agreed!
omg the background music..
Nikkormats are fabulous cameras. I've been a proud owner and (still occasional) user for over 40 years.
They are great and kinda fun with the unique shutter dial. Need to use mine again soon. Thanks for the input!
This was an extremely informative video. Trying to figure out this camera and you unlocked a lot of information. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
I really like the FTn, I’ve got one along with an F, F2, and F3 (amongst other non-Nikon film cameras).
The biggest problem I’ve got with my FTn is the focusing screen, which is just a multiprism (no split prism). Some of the later ones came with split prisms, but I really like the look of the early ones. I did buy a replacement split prism screen on eBay, and will be having a local camera technician swap them shortly.
The thing I like about the camera the most is how quiet the copal shutter is. It’s no Leica, but it’s considerably quieter than the Nikon F, F2, and F3. Not to mention that it’s a much lighter camera, as well.
Overall, I’m glad I have it, and glad I have the one I have. It’s previous and original owner was a paleontologist who used it to photograph a bunch of museum specimens in the 70s, and then when he’d retired it from travel use used it as a macro rig in his own lab for years, so it’s got an awesome history
I have had every camera from the list below. contax,canon,fujica,konica,leica,minolta,nikon,olympus,pentax,rollei,yashica.and the only one I love and have is nikkormat ft2/3.i have 4 in total.absolutely beautiful cameras.
🙏🏻👌
Wow your editing is off the wall dude. Very cool visuals
Thanks Brian! Appreciate it
The background music volume is.... SO fucking distracting. Good work with the camera but... christ.. that music and its not exactly a subtle mix. I really had to listen to hear what was being said
I worked for several years as a newspaper photographer and my Domke bag held a Nikon F2 and either a Nikkormat FTn or, later FT2. Experience has convinced me that the Nikkormats are every bit as solid and reliable as the F2s. I am still using both, but I wore out the Domke and had to replace it with another one.
The Nikkormat Ft/Ftn/FT2/FT3 cameras were made when film SLR cameras were built to last. I have a Nikon Ftn Photomic and a Nikkormat FT2 and the Nikkormat is just as solid and durable as the F in my opinion. I like that the shutter speed ring on the Nikkormat is on the camera body around the lens mount it's proximity to the lens aperture ring is real handy don't have to remove a hand from the camera to reach up and turn the shutter speed dial as on the F.
Agreed, both are solid and can't go wrong either way. I do like having the removable prism for waist shooting but it is so convenient having the shutter ring by the lens so I never have to move to adjust.
When Olympus designed their OM professional cameras, they put the shutter speed ring behind the lens and as an F user since 1967, I preferred that.
@@graham_white One of the fun things about taking photos with my old film SLR's is I get asked 'what kind of camera is that?' quite often. The 'youngest' film camera in my collection is a Nikon FG circa 1985. In this age of auto-everything digital cameras (and smart phones); somebody using a film camera which requires focusing and exposure setting is a curiosity.
Own both and they gave the same image I like the FTN controls more then the F
ya image won't change at all for sure. I Agree I am partial to the front ring design, there is just something about it.
As a south paw I love the ergonomics of the FTN and that light leak is typical of a bad light seal at the door hinge
Also a south paw so I completely get what you are saying. And yes you are right. This was back in the days when I always said “meh, I’m sure the seals are fine” and just put rolls into everything. 🤦♂️🤷♂️ not anymore though that’s for sure. Thanks for the input!
Here is a good story, I am walking to Fort Point (Oldest US Army in the West Coast-1861) So I am walking through the Fort with my Nikkormat with a 50mm 2.0 with Nikon Metal Lens Shade, as after climbing down the stone stairs that the Strap rings were light that they snap OFF the strap, and my camera was bouncing down the stone stairs as if hit the bottom of the floor that the Ranger seen it as he came to my aid, and he told me is it broken, and I looked through the screen the meter was still working, the shutters were still working, as I check the film door that it was still LOCK!!, The only thing that was broken was the Lens shade that the clamp was bent. My Nikkormat is built like a TANK, and I got mine in 1975 as I still have it today... These bodies were alike the F's, Tough, and Durable to handle. Just wish that the PX625 original battery was still around as if they can only make a battery that is 1.35 volt than the 1.50 volt, well I read that I can get an adapter but still without the battery it is still my second, and third backup as I got another or found a Nikkormat Black body at where I work at the camera store.. Again they are like TANKS!!! I also have the Nikkormat ELW, and Nikon ELW with also the drives.
haha that is quite the story. most bodies wouldn't survive that fall.
Amazing presentation though, but that music is 🤦🏾♂️
1 huge failing… early pre ai lenses with non scallop aperture make it difficult to not keep turning the indexing dial at same time as changing aperture
Got the FTN first and wanted an F just because it's the F. I'm currently servicing a well worn Nikon F and I actually prefer the FTN. It feels like a much more cohesive package. Yes, the F started the SLR dominance, but the FTN cut the fat and got to the point. Though, if I'm being honest, I'm currently running a Pentax ME Super as my main with a Canon FTB and Sears TLS as mechanical backups. Still love the FTN though.
The ftn is great and it did cut down in size and weight etc. I just love the asthetic and removable prism of the f
@@graham_white I'd be lying if I didn't pick up a Nikon F after cleaning and servicing a friends Nikon F...It's in the mail on it's way to me. Haha.
The music 🥴🥴😳😳
I have an all black Nikkormat ft2 with a 50mm f2 lens. I love it.
Solid setup
The light meter uses a mercury batter no longer available.
Actually very easy to use, don't forget it is designed for semi pro use who would soon find all the controls come easy to hand.
Sounds like you are used to too much automation 😂
Sorry but I barely understand the hell u say... take out that background rap music.
Totally agree!
I must have accidentally tweaked it before exporting. was nowhere near that loud originally.
This guy is the Peter McKinnon of film cameras. Jokes aside dude, I like your content. Subscribed!
that's a bold statement! but I appreciate it. Got some cool new stuff coming real soon.
@@graham_white hey thanks for your reply. Will be on the lookout for new content. Get a hold of that new Fuji B&W film and let us know how it is.
@@12macevedo The new Neopan across 100? You can bet as soon as it is released I am getting some.
@@graham_white that's it! I didn't remember the name exactly. Thanks for putting these videos out.
Love the camera collection!
Thanks!
Hi Grahm, great video. I have this model and love it. no mirror bounce and meter works. great manual camera. a little quirky to get used to but it gets easier. Thanks and hope you make more vids.
Thanks Tom! I agree it does have some great pros and I definitely think it is a better camera than people give it credit for. I definitely will!
I've loved Nikkormat cameras ever since I was a kid, and now that I'm not a kid, they are affordable. LOL. Excellent video, loved the content, subscribed! Take care, -Scott
haha, it's nice being able to grab these great camera's now at decent prices, isn't it? Thanks! more coming soon.
I have a couple of Af-D lenses that I want to use on a Nikkormat, I know it doesn't have the rabbit ears, but will the camera shoot at whatever aperture I put the lens Af-D lenses at?? Metering is not a problem because I want to practice sunny 16
Ralph Cedric Basco if I remember correctly you should have no problem doing that. Like you said you just have to manually do metering. You would have to add rabbit ears or an adapter to use light meter. Remember the Nikkormat and lens have to be set in a specific position to mount.
very genuine what you do in your channel, keep going, I see thousands of followers in the future! great camera, I've been with her for 10 years, about 50 rolls with her and I love it. regards!
Thanks a lot Jorge! Ha nice, I'm sure it's given you some great shots. hoping I can put that many through mine.
I really love your reviewing process. I appreciate how you gave in depth background of the camera, metering demonstration, shooting process, and examining photo results. All tied in with good camera work and editing.
Keep this up man. This is exactly what we need more of. I’m not sure why your channel hasn’t blown up yet but you did a great job putting this video together. I hope you can do spotlight some other film cameras like the Nikon F or the Minolta you talked about. Liked and subscribed.
Thanks! Think I'm going to stick pretty close to that format for new. a few new ones coming soon.
Who the heck is paying a hundred bucks for an FTn? At KEH and UsedPhotoPro FTn's in very good/bargain condition go for $35 and excellent condition for $55. Great video by the way; loved the viewfinder graphics!
lol I agree. They did include a lens or lenses but even with that it's not worth it. Unfortunately, just about every film camera is quickly being listed way over value. Thanks! Think I am going to incorporate a lot more graphics even though it is very time intensive.
I got one without a lens for ten untested on eBay. All the important stuff worked. There are some deals out there but there's a crowd of college kids with rich parents getting into film photography right now so the prices on a lot of stuff is jacked.
Hello. Not sure if I missed it but what fuji film did you use specifically? Great informative vid btw 👌🏽
Superia 400 its one of the least expensive films out there so its a go to for cameras when I am unsure of their working capabilities. Thanks!
Graham White Thank you!
nice video mate! love it
Thanks Nicholas
Oh no loose the music cannot work out what you want me too listen too cannot work out what you saying sorry fella very distracting
tony Rigg ya. Uploaded the wrong file. Only video with that issue
Great video, I like the setup, presentation, and the information is pretty good
thanks, Jacob!
Ive been considering between ft and fm. Which do you think better ?
depends. the FM definitely has more features and settings but the ft has a better build that will most likely last much longer. Plus is fully mechanical. I believe the fm requires a battery to operate anything other than 125 of a second but can't remember off the top of my head. pros and cons to both.
@@graham_white na. FM is completely manual but not as solid as the nikkormat.
Cool view finder preview but why didn't the light meter change as you changed the shutter speed? Is your light meter broken?
sad dude lol. Yes I guess my meter is broken
Do you watch your videos before uploading?
never as many times as I should
I actually had a FT3, and later sold it because of some mechanical issues and it's weird setup of controls. Currently I have a FE2 and an EL2. If I am getting a FT series again, I will be getting the FT3, because all my Nikon lenses except the 50mm f2 and 55mm f3.5 (both factory AI'd) are AF-D and Series E AI-s, which do not have the rabbit ears, and I do use the in-camera meter all the time.
It is an interesting setup but yeah I'm sure any mechanical issues are a beast because of it. I have debated trying to fix the aperture so it's smoother but don't think its worth the hassle right now. The FE2 is a great camera and I love the newer compact AI lenses, but I have the Nikkor S 55mm 1.2 that keeps me tied to some of the older models. I did just recently find the an FT3 though And I it has a nicer adjustment lever for the aperture and seems the design is a little more refined.
Try lifting the AI Cam pin up by pressing the button, and then use the 50mm 2.0, and the 55mm3.5 as you use Stop Down Metering by pressing the Depth of Preview button down while adjusting the F/stop ring, and then try to point the needle to the middle to get normal exposure.. I try it with the FM, and ELW it still works...
When you said nikkormat you got it. it's called nikon instead of neikon. ;-)
kill the music
Got halfway through, but had to give up. Commentary excellent, music totally off-putting. You should edit the video and re-release it.
Gretting from argentina!🍺
👋
That was so cool
loose the back ground noise!
Lose*
The loud music makes this unwatchable 😢
Your way to good to only have under 200 subs
Don't deserve the compliment. But thanks! slowly but surely.