Nikon F25B User's Manual
Contents
1. Medical 200mm f 5 6 55mm 3 5 Mero 05mm ta 500mm f 8 Reflex Telephoto 1000mm f 11 2000mm f 11 31 EXPOSURE COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENTS continued 32 Adjustments for Film Compensation Some exposure correction may be necessary when cer tain types of films are used for copying or photomicro graphy applications the amount of correction required however will depend on the type of film and the spe cific application The following table lists the exposure corrections in f stops required for various film shooting requirements Compensation is possible by adjusting the shutter speed or the aperture by the indicated amount also compensation is possible by adjusting the ASA film speed index ring In the example shown the index ring is set so that the red mark is aligned with ASA 50 this setting is the correct position to achieve a one stop increase in exposure three scale graduations equal one stop as required when performing photomicrography see table using ASA 100 Panchromatic film Original Repro copying amp slide copying Photo Type B amp W figures figures micrography of film color photo light background dark background Panchromatic No film compensation 11 stops V stop 1 stop for general use necessary MULTIPLE EXPOSURES Intentional multiple exposures2. NOMENCLATURE Finder mounting clamps Shutter speed dial Maximum aperture indicator Extra long exposure scale EE aperture control contacts Shutter speed scale Threaded sync terminal Mirror lockup lever Neckstrap eyelet Depth of field preview button Lens mounting index Self timer Lens release button Timer index EE aperture control coupling Timer scale Reflex mirror Lens mounting flange Meter coupling pin Tripod socket Motor drive shutter release coupling Battery chamber Di O C key Motor drive film advance coupling Film rewind button IADE Memo holder Focusing ring Depth of field indicators Distance scale Aperture ring External correct exposure indicator Ready light contact Film rewind knob Film rewind crank Accessory shoe Hot shoe contact Finder release button Eyepiece shutter control opp 5 356 2027 n a r2 760874 Aperture Distance scale index Meter coupling prong Finder release lever ASA film speed scale ASA film speed index ring Shutter release button T L fingerguard Frame counter Shutter speed dial lock Film advance lever switch Viewfinder eyepiece w ready light CONTENTS Foreword Metering range Preparation for use Extreme low light metering Installing the batteries Time exposures
3. Checking the batteries Eyepiece shutter operation Loading the film High contrast lighting situations Prior to shooting Stop down exposure measurement Memo holder Exposure compensation adjustments Setting the film speed Adjustments for focusing screens Operation of camera controls Adjustments for film compensation Setting the shutter speed Multiple exposures Setting the aperture Mirror lockup Film advance lever Flash synchronization Frame counter Ready light T L fingerguard Finder illuminator Self timer Tips on camera care Unloading film Changing the lens Holding the camera Maximum aperture indicator Shutter release operation Changing the viewfinder Operation via cable release Changing the focusing screen Focusing Focusing screen selector guide Infrared photography Focusing screen selector chart Film plane indicator Accessories Depth of field Features specifications Depth of field preview button Depth of field indicators Exposure measurement Determining exposure Exposure control FOREWORD The Nikon F2SB Photomic camera offers the serious photographer the ultimate in quality performance con venience and versatility At the same time it is engineer ed to take the guesswork out of photography with auto matic features anyone can learn to use in minutes To get the most out of your Nikon F2SB Photomic study the instructions carefully and practice using the controls before you load any film in the camera Keep this book l
4. pensation is required Exposure measurement via full aperture method E Exposure measurement via stop down method E Exposure measurement not possible lens screen combination permits only focusing operation Blank space indicates lens screen combination cannot be used Lens Screen AJL Fisheye 6mm f 2 8 8mm f 2 8 16mm f 3 5 Wideangle 13mm f 5 6 H2 x m 15mm 5 6 18mm f 4 20mm f 4 24mm 2 8 28mm f 2 o eR 28mm 2 8 28mm 3 5 35mm f 1 4 35mm f 2 35mm 2 8 Normal 50mm f 1 4 ie ns 50mm f 2 55mm f 1 2 Telephoto 85mm 1 8 m f 2 5 135mm f 2 135mm f 2 8 135mm 3 5 180mm f 2 8 200mm f 4 300mm f 4 5 ED 300mm f 4 5 ED 400mm f 5 6 400mm f 4 5 600mm f 5 6 ED 600mm f 5 6 800mm f 8 ED 800mm f 8 1200mm f 11 ED 1200mm f 11 GN 28 45mm f 4 5 43 86mm f 3 5 50 300mm f 4 5 FRPP i cjo oe e T e e 80 200mm f 4 5 ED 360 1200mm f 11 45mm f 2 8 PC 28mm f 4 35mm f 2 8
5. condition of the flash either ready when on or not ready when off at all times even while viewing For additional information see the in struction manual supplied with the Speedlight ATS When shooting under low light levels the finder s shut ter speed and aperture indicators located just below the viewfinder image often are difficult to read To solve this problem the Photomic finder is fitted with a finder illuminator To operate slide the illuminator switch at the top of the finder toward the rear of the camera with this action the shutter speed and aperture settings will glow red TIPS ON CAMERA CARE Good camera care is primarily common sense care Treat your Nikon F2SB Photomic camera as you would any other precision optical instrument and it will provide you years of trouble free service Although ruggedly constructed your camera may be damaged by shock heat water or misuse By observing the following tips you will be assured of the longest possible service life Fingerprints or dust on lens prism surfaces will make viewing un comfortable and will generally contribute to a deterioration of optical performance Clean lens surfaces often using a quality lens tissue or a soft lens brush stubborn smudges should be wiped with lens tissue moistened with alcohol or lens cleaner Never clean lens surfaces using cloth paper towels ordinary tissue or any other materia
6. contours Suitable for general photography Type R Same as Type A but with rangefinder prisms of sloping surfaces at a smaller angle and horizontal and vertical lines to aid proper composi Works best with lenses having maximum aperture of from f 3 5 to f 5 6 Focusing Screen Selector Chart Excellent TA 7 Acceptable m The image is brilliant from edge to edge but the central rangefinder microprism or cross hair area is dim Focus on the surrounding matte area 2 Acceptable HER Slight vignetting or moire phe 35mm f 2 nomenon in the case of the microprism affects the screen Nom image But the image on film shows no traces of this Acceptable Incompatible with any lens having a maximum aperture larger than 2 8 since this decreases the ef wo ELI ficiency and accuracy of the screen pas ss rangefinder The in focus image 600mm f 5 6 i ED 600mm f 5 6 in the central spot may prove to AA be slightly out of focus on film Eo omm 8 Focus on the surrounding matte TED 1200mm fit _ 28 45mm 4 5 _ 43 86mm f 3 5 so 300mm f 4 5 Zoom or ex 35mmf 28 Medical 200mm f 5 6 55mm 173 5 Micro S00mmf 8 1000 0711 Reflex Telephoto 43 ACCE
7. for creative effects can be made with the Nikon F2SB Photomic camera To take a multiple exposure perform the following Make the in itial exposure depress and hold the rewind button on the camera s baseplate and stroke the film advance lever to cock the shutter for the next exposure on the same frame for each additional exposure on the frame repeat the same procedure At the completion of multiple ex posure operation stroke the film advance lever once more to release the rewind button cover the lens and make one blank exposure and then resume normal operation Note that during multiple exposure opera tion the camera s shutter speed can be changed to any setting for the desired shooting effect Also throughout the multiple exposure operation the camera s frame counter will remain at the same setting as long as the rewind button is held depressed while stroking the film advance lever MIRROR LOCKUP The reflex mirror must be locked in the up position when using either the Fisheye Nikkor 6mm f 5 6 or the OP Fisheye Nikkor 10mm f 5 6 lenses since their rear elements protrude into the camera body and interfere with mirror movement Locking up the mirror is also necessary when shooting with a motor drive unit at its top speed setting To lock up the mirror depress and hold the depth of field button and turn the mirror lock up lever downward until the white dot is aligned with the white index line The mirror will remain in
8. halves of the rangefinder image coincide to form a single crisp image when using the microprism ring turn until the microprism pattern shifts to a sharp and crisp image You can also focus on the matte field that surrounds the rangefinder microprism central area The lens can also be prefocused using the distance scale engraved in both meters and feet on the lens barrel Sim ply turn the focusing ring until the desired camera to subject distance as measured or estimated is lined up with the distance scale index on the lens barrel This technique is useful for candid shots of elusive subjects when time does not permit through the lens focusing Out of focus In focus FOCUSING continued Infrared Photography The plane of sharpest focus for infrared light is slightly more distant than its counterpart for visible light as seen through the camera s viewfinder Thus for sharpest focus in infrared photography adjustments must be made To compensate for this shift in focus first focus the im age sharply through the viewfinder Then turn the fo cusing ring counterclockwise until the point focused is aligned with the red dot or line provided on the lens barrel For example in the picture below the lens has been focused for infinity infrared shooting Note that when lenses having a focal length of 50mm or less are used stopped down to f 8 or below no adjustment is necessary due to the large depth of fie
9. the up position until the lever is returned to the normal posi tion FLASH SYNCHRONIZATION 34 The Nikon F2SB Photomic camera is designed to syn chronize with most types of flashbulbs at almost all shutter speeds and with electronic flash at speeds to 1 80 second The table below shows which shutter speeds may be used with different types of flashbulbs H Flashbulb 2000 1000 500 250 125 60 30 FP Speedlight ej Synchronized WE cannot be used No special adapters are necessary when using the Nikon F2SB Photomic camera with the Flash Unit BC 7 or with the Speedlight Unit SB 2 Both units mount direct ly on the camera s accessory shoe and they require no sync cords For other flash units with ISO type hot shoe contacts mounting on the camera is via the Flash Unit Coupler AS 1 again no sync cord is required as the AS 1 provides full connection via the camera s hot shoe contact Caution When the reflex mirror is locked in the up position the shutter will not synchronize with flashbulbs at speeds faster than 1 80 second The camera s Photomic finder has a ready light built in for use with Nikon Speedlight Units This unique feature provides for greater ease of operation during flash photo graphy as the photographer need not remove his eye from the eyepiece to check if the Speedlight unit is ready for the next exposure this built in lamp lets the photo grapher know the
10. until it clicks and locks into place While mounting the lens shade the camera from the sun with your body In order to measure exposure at full aperture with lenses having different maximum apertures the meter must be indexed with the maximum aperture setting of the lens in use This must be done each time a lens is mounted as follows After locking the lens in place turn the aper ture ring all the way to the minimum aperture setting then all the way in the opposite direction This step automatically fits the coupling pin of the Photomic finder into the coupling prong on the lens and adjusts the meter to the maximum aperture of the lens As the lens aperture ring is turned to the maximum aperture position at the completion of lens finder cou pling and indexing the finder displays the lens maximum aperture via the indicator see figure below For ex ample a lens with a maximum aperture of f 2 8 will cause 2 8 to appear in the finder s maximum aperture indicator when properly coupled The scale is provided with numbers and dots for intermediate settings of from 1 2 to 5 6 as depicted Maximum Aperture Scale 56 as E 28 5 14 12 CHANGING THE VIEWFINDER In addition to the F2SB Photomic finder included with the camera six other interchangeable viewfinders are available To remove the F2SB Photomic finder to mount one of the other units press the finder release lever inward a
11. will light indicating overexposure cor rect exposure or underexposure If the plus indicator lights increase the shutter speed or decrease the aperture until the center indicator just comes on and the turns off if the minus indicator is lit decrease the shutter speed or increase the aperture until the center in dicator lights When two LEDs light simultaneously i e and or and the exposure setting is within 1 stop of correct exposure thus be sure to adjust the aperture setting slowly to get only the correct center ex posure Values for the five settings of the LEDs are described in the figure on this page EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT continued Exposure Control The amount of light reaching the film plane is deter mined by a combination of the lens aperture and the shutter speed Since the two are interrelated different combinations will give the same exposure A 1 step change in the shutter speed or a 1 stop change in the aperture setting will either halve or double the exposure For example a shutter speed of 1 125 second passes twice as much light as a setting of 1 250 second and only half as much light as a speed of 1 60 second for an aperture setting of f 11 twice as much light as f 16 and half as much as f 8 is passed This feature characterizes the operation throughout the available range of shutter speeds and aperture settings With this in mind it s easy to see that if a
12. Nikon focusing units set the camera to the desired shutter speed then depress the depth of field preview button to stop down the lens diaphragm and while holding the button depressed adjust the aperture ring until the center LED indicator comes on Be sure to release the depth of field button prior to making the exposure For bellows units extension rings and preset lenses set the camera to the desired shutter speed then stop down the lens manually until the center LED indicator comes on Preset type lenses include PC Nikkor lenses 29 EXPOSURE COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENTS 30 Adjustments for Focusing Screens Light transmission properties vary somewhat with focus ing screen type thus occasionally requiring exposure correction to compensate for the combined effects of the lens screen combination in use The numbers listed in various blocks of the table on the opposite page de note the amount of correction necessary in f stops To adjust the camera s finder for the indicated f stop cor rection lift and turn the ASA film speed index ring until the ASA value for the film in use is aligned with the appropriate mark engraved on the ring In the ex ample figure shown ASA 100 is aligned with the mark to provide the correction required when using the Type C screen with the Nikon F2SB Photomic camera and the Fisheye Nikkor 8mm f 2 8 lens as indicated in the table When 0 is indicated in the table no com
13. SSORIES Lens Hoods The use of a lens hood is recommended at all times to prevent extraneous light from striking the lens surface and causing flare or ghost and to protect the lens against damage Nikon lens hoods come in four types depend ing on the lens screw in snap on slip in and built in They are calculated precisely for each focal length Nikkor lens to provide maximum protection against stray light To attach or remove the snap on hood first depress the spring latch which is marked with an arrow and slide it in the direction of the arrow The hood will also fit directly over a screw in filter so both can be used on a lens at the same time When not in use the snap on hood can be reversed for storage on the lens and the lens and its hood can be stored together in the ever ready case 44 Filters Nikon filters are made of optical glass ground and polished so that both surfaces are optically flat and parallel Nikkor lenses and Nikon filters are made for each other For best results use Nikon filters on Nikkor lenses The filters are available in both screw in and series mounts depending on the lens Except for the R60 no Nikon filter requires exposure compensation when used with the Nikon F2SB Photo mic When using the R60 filter under tungsten light increase the exposure by one f stop more than indicated by the exposure meter Note If you wish to leave a filter on the lens to protect the lens against
14. accidental damage the use of the L37 or L37C filter is recommended Eyepiece Correction Lenses The nine eyepiece correction lenses are designed to permit nearsighted and farsighted users to view and focus without their glasses Available in 2 3 4 5 0 0 5 1 2 and 3 diopters each representing the combined dioptry of the lens and the finder Simply screw into the finder eyepiece e Finder Eyecup The soft rubber finder eyecup screws directly onto the finder eyepiece to prevent extraneous light from enter ing the viewfinder When using an eyepiece correction lens with a finder eyecup it is recommended to use the Nikkormat type eyecup First fit the lens into the eyecup in advance Then screw the assembly onto the finder eyepiece FEATURES SPECIFICATIONS Type of camera 35mm single lens reflex SLR Picture format 24mm x 36mm 35mm film format Lens mount Nikon F mount bayonet type Lenses available Nikkor 50mm f 1 4 f 2 or 55mm f 1 2 as standard more than 50 Nikkor lenses in all Shutter Horizontal travel focal plane shutter speeds of from 1 to 1 2000 second and speeds of from 2 to 10 seconds available via built in self timer inter mediate settings possible between 1 80 and 1 2000 second shutter release via shutter button or self timer Flash synchronization Automatic selection as shutter speed is set hot shoe contact with built in safety switch provided one th
15. because the lens has no automatic diaphragm or because the lens does not cou ple with the finder s meter with certain accessories too lens finder coupling is not possible thus preventing full aperture measurement However the camera s Photomic meter can still be used for exposure measurement via the stop down method Before mounting the lens or accessory on the camera body push the meter coupling pin up into the finder with a coin or similar object when set the number 5 6 will appear in the finder s maxi mum aperture indicator After setting the finder mount the lens or lens accessory combination on the camera switch on the meter by moving the film advance lever to the standoff position and then set the controls for cor rect exposure as follows For fixed aperture lenses such as Reflex Nikkor lenses simply adjust the shutter speed selector until the center LED indicator comes on For convenience shutter speeds can be set at intermediate settings in the 1 80 sec to 1 2000 sec speed range for precise exposures If the meter indicates continuous overexposure use a neutral density filter or slower film If continuous under exposure is indicated supplementary lighting or a faster film is necessary This technique is also suitable for photography using a telescope or microscope For automatic diaphragm lenses with no coupling prong such as the Zoom Nikkor 200 600mm f 9 5 lens and super telephoto lenses using
16. camera then look within the finder to see if any of the LED exposure indicators are illuminated If any of the indicators are lit battery power is sufficient for proper operation If none of the LEDs light battery positioning should be checked then if none of the LEDs light replace batteries Loading the Film Fold out the O C key at the baseplate of the camera and turn it counterclockwise 180 until the arrow points to the open mark and the camera back pops open Pull up the rewind knob as far as it will go and drop a standard film cartridge or a special Nikon reloadable cassette into the left hand film chamber with the film leader aligned along the film guide rails After positioning the cartridge and film leader properly push the rewind knob down to hold the cartridge in MADE IN JAPAN place and insert the end of the film leader into any of the slots in the film take up spool If necessary release the shutter and then stroke the film advance lever slow ly to make sure that the leader winds smoothly on the spool and that the film edge perforations engage with the film sprocket roller When satisfied that the film is properly feeding and is traveling correctly along the film guide rails close the camera back and return the O C key to its normal storage position Also see Tips on Camera Care on page 36 PREPARATION FOR USE continued Prior to Shooting Fold out the rewind
17. correct exposure for a scene is 1 125 at f 11 then 1 60 at f 16 or 1 250 at f 8 will be equally acceptable The best combination for your needs will depend on the results desired Use fast shutter speeds to freeze motion or use slow speeds to produce deliberate and creative blur Small apertures give greater depth of field while large apertures restrict sharp focus to the main subject The creative selection of both speeds and apertures will greatly enhance your photography 24 Metering Range If the center correct exposure LED fails to illuminate even after all possible lens aperture shutter speed com binations have been tried then the available light is too bright or too dim for the meter s range To correct this situation several measures may be taken as follows Switch to a new film either higher or lower ASA that more closely matches the available light mount a neutral density filter on the lens to decrease the light reaching the film plane or use artificial lighting i e an electronic flash unit to increase subject illumination Remember too that the lens in use can greatly influence suitability for bright or dim shooting For example a 50mm f 1 4 lens with ASA 100 film couples from EV 2 f 1 4 at 8 seconds to EV 17 f 8 at 1 2000 second for excel lent low light performance on the other hand a 200mm f 4 lens proves more usable at bright light levels coupl ing with ASA 100 film from EV 1 f 4 at 8 s
18. crank and turn it gently in the di rection of the engraved arrow until you feel a slight ten sion this tension indicates that there is no more slack in the film cartridge Be sure not to rewind the film back into the cartridge Advance the film and make two blank exposures to dis pose of the initial portion of the film exposed during loading for film advance operation see page 11 While advancing the film check that the rewind crank turns in the direction opposite the arrow Crank rotation indica tes that the film has been loaded properly and is being advanced Then fold the crank flat for storage After advancing the film two frames to dispose of the initial portion of the leader the frame counter at the upper right of the camera will indicate 0 now ad vance the film one more frame to prepare the camera for taking the first exposure Memo Holder A special holder is provided on the camera back for con venient storage of information pertinent to the photo graphy A piece of paper or the end flap torn from the film carton can be inserted to serve as a reminder of the film type film speed and number of exposures Setting the Film Speed The camera s exposure meter must be adjusted to the speed of the film in use to ensure correct measurement thus a film speed scale ASA graduations and an index ring are provided on the finder To adjust lift the milled ASA film speed index ring and turn it until
19. e sure that the lens cap is attached to the lens Do not leave film in the camera for a long period of time and never store the camera with the shutter or self timer cocked Never lubricate any part of the camera Lubrication should be left to an authorized service center Prior to a holiday trip or impor tant shooting assignment test your camera including changing batteries if necessary for proper operation Observe normal battery handling procedures for maximum per formance at all times Be sure to Clean batteries periodically wiping with a rough cloth will remove residues that might other wise impede performance install batteries properly checking for proper polarity remove batteries when not using the equipment for an extended period change weak batteries promptly to prevent leakage within the camera store unused batteries properly in a cool dry location to maximize service life dispose of batteries properly do not burn and keep out of the reach of children For details regarding battery performance refer to the original manu facturer 37 To remove the lens from the camera press the lens re lease button and holding the button depressed twist the lens to the right as far as it will go The lens will come loose and can be lifted out To mount a lens position it in the camera s bayonet mount so that the mounting index on the lens and the camera are aligned then twist the lens counterclockwise
20. econds to EV 20 f 22 at 1 2000 Thus choose the lens carefully to match the existing lighting conditions Extreme Low Light Metering The meter built into the Nikon F2SB camera is capable of metering low light levels requiring slow shutter speeds of up to 10 seconds To meter at low light levels perform the following Set the lens aperture ring to the desired aperture setting and the shutter speed selector to B then depress and hold the shutter speed dial lock and turn the selector until the center LED exposure indicator illuminates to indicate correct exposure Having set the selector read off the number on the extra long exposure scale and set the camera s self timer for the indicated value then set the T L fingerguard to and depress the shutter button to make the exposure When performing low light metering be sure to block the entry of stray light into the viewfinder by closing the eyepiece shutter or by continuously viewing through the finder Refer to accompanying photos for details Time Exposures To make an exposure longer than 10 seconds set the shutter speed selector to B and turn the T L finger guard to as described in Extreme Low Light Meter ing Advance the film and press the shutter release button to open the shutter As long as the fingerguard remains set to the shutter will remain open When returning the fingerguard to the normal center position to cl
21. et handy for ready reference until you have mastered its basics and follow the suggestions for camera care given on page 36 The few moments you spend familiar izing yourself with the camera will guarantee you the best results and increase your picture taking enjoyment many times over PREPARATION FOR USE Installing the Batteries The exposure meter in the Photomic finder is powered by two high performance silver oxide batteries mounted in the battery chamber in the baseplate of the camera To install the batteries first remove the battery chamber cover turn it 90 counterclockwise using a coin or simi lar object then place two 1 5V silver oxide button cell type batteries in the chamber making sure that the plus side of each unit faces out After inserting and properly seating the batteries replace the cover and lock it to secure the assembly Note Remove the batteries when the camera is not to be used for a long period this will prevent leakage within the camera Also keep the camera as warm as possible when operating under cold weather conditions otherwise the batteries may fail to function See Tips on Camera Care on page 36 for additional information Checking the Batteries The camera s film advance lever serves as the ON OFF switch for the Photomic finder Thus to check battery power perform the following Pull out the lever just far enough to uncover the red meter ON index on the top of the
22. finity 20 jaan A ie m2 8779S 8 Lens set at f 4 Shallow depth of field centered on the main subject Lens at f 8 Depth of field extended in front of behind the main subject Lens at f 16 Sharp focus is extended to encompass the entire foreground and background 21 EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT The exposure meter of the Nikon F2SB Photomic camera s finder features a center weighted TTL metering system coupled to the shutter speed and aperture con trols The meter reads the light over the entire focusing screen but favors the central 12mm diameter area This allows you to make precise readings of the selected sub ject area and results in more balanced overall exposures iis nin i ty _ eins 22 Determining Exposure The finder has three LED exposure indicators visible within the viewfield for overexposure for correct exposure and for underexposure thus the metering system is capable of providing easy to read ex posure information in five steps and even at extremely low light levels Additionally the selected shutter speed and lens aperture settings are visible for maximum ease of operation for setting the desired exposure To determine the correct exposure with the Nikon F2SB Switch ON the meter by moving the film advance lever to the 20 standoff position with this action one of the LED indicators
23. g downward and the Nikon mark to the front of the camera Then press the finder release but ton and the screen will drop into place Caution When changing the focusing screen be careful not to touch the optical surfaces When removing the screen it is advisable to place a clean dry cloth over the palm of the hand to catch the screen as it drops free of the camera CHANGING THE FOCUSING SCREEN continued Focusing Screen Selector Guide 42 Type A L Type A Matte Fresnel field with 3mm circular split image rangefinder spot and 12mm circle Rap id and accurate focusing Excellent for general photography Type L Same as Type A screen but with split image rangefinder line at a 45 angle Best for subjects with horizontal lines Type B Matte Fresnel field with 12 fine ground matte focusing spot in the center Good for general photography especially with long lenses Type C Fine ground matte field with 4mm clear spot and cross hair For photomicrography astro photography and other high magnification applica tions and for parallax focusing on aerial images Type D Overall fine ground matte field For spe cialized close up photography and for use with long lenses Type E Matte Fresnel field with 12mm fine ground matte spot and etched horizontal and verti cal lines Ideal for architectural photography Type G Clear Fresnel field with extra bright 12 mm micro
24. ge Removal of the camera back is necessary when the camera is used with any accessory back such as the 250 Magazine Back MF 1 or the Camera Back MF 3 both for motorized photography 13 HOLDING THE CAMERA Camera shake is one of the most common causes of un sharp pictures especially at slow shutter speeds Learn to hold the camera correctly and practice steady shutter squeezing The photos show the best ways to hold the camera for sharp pictures Wrap the fingers of the right hand around the camera body so that the index finger rests comfortably on the shutter release button and the thumb fits between the camera body and the film advance lever Position the camera so that the eye looks through the center of the viewfinder Cradle the camera in the left hand for addi tional support with the left thumb and index finger grasping the focusing ring From this basic stance the camera can be properly supported and easily switched from horizontal to vertical format shooting As a general rule the slowest shutter speed you should use with the camera hand held is equal to the reciprocal of the focal length of the lens in use e g for a 500mm lens use 1 500 sec for a 105mm lens use 1 125 sec However as the ability to hold the camera steady may vary with each individual we recommend that you experiment In general the higher the selected shutter speed the sharper the picture SHUTTER RELEASE OPERATION For sharp pictures c
25. inal exposure To pre vent under or overexposure of the main subject under these shooting conditions some corrective action must be taken to ensure proper exposure of the main subject Fortunately the finder s center weighted TTL metering action simplifies adjustments making for quicker camera operation and more accurate final results To compensate for an excessively bright or dark back ground target the main subject in the center of the fo cusing screen while performing metering this action en sures that the main emphasis of the meter reading will be on the chosen subject Then after completing aper ture and shutter speed adjustments recompose to the desired picture composition and make the exposure without readjusting the camera controls For example when shooting landscapes it is often advisable to aim the camera slightly downward during exposure measure ment to eliminate the effects of a bright expanse of sky without such compensation the landscape may appear underexposed in the final print Also for backlit sub jects it may be necessary to move closer to the subject to ensure a proper reading 156 250 e Metering with a bright area in the center will cause underexposure of the main subject For correct exposure first measure the main subject then recompose and shoot 27 STOP DOWN EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT With some Nikkor lenses full aperture exposure mea surement is not possible either
26. l that might scratch the lens surface also use cleaning fluids sparingly to prevent seepage and resulting damage to me chanical components When interchanging lenses finders etc your camera is susceptible to the entry of dust or other contaminants It is a good idea to clean moving body parts frequently to prevent the build up of dust here a lens brush and blower will come in very handy When blow ing out the interior of the camera however avoid contact with the shutter curtains as they are easily damaged Also wipe the outer body surfaces using the silicone impregnated cleaning cloth pro vided with the camera this cloth will remove fingerprints etc quickly and easily Note that the cleaning cloth should never be used to clean the lens surfaces When exposed to sudden temperature changes or high humidity condensation may form on the lens surfaces After using in these situations always dry the camera thoroughly and slowly at room temperature and then store in a cool dry location Remember that failure to dry out the camera may result in the growth of fungus on lens surfaces a condition that will render your camera useless e Should your camera be accidently dropped on the floor or in water take it to your dealer immediately for servicing Thorough servicing can be guaranteed only at an authorized dealer Always store the camera in an ever ready case or compartment case when not in use And b
27. ld available Note Some new optics using Nikon s Extra low Dispersion ED glass as well as reflex catadioptric lenses do not require refocusing for infrared photography Refer to individual lens instruction manuals for details Film Plane Indicator Under various precision shooting situations such as close up photography it is often necessary to measure the film to subject distance to ensure the sharpest focus The camera s film plane is indicated by the top edge of the figures making up the serial number at the upper left of the camera body Note that these figures are 46 5mm from the front surface of the camera s lens mounting flange mounting flange front surface 46 5mm DEPTH OF FIELD Depth of field refers to the zone of acceptable focus ex tending in front of and behind the plane of sharpest focus Within this zone image blur is negligible and everything may be considered as being in sharp focus Three factors greatly influence the depth of field the focal length of the lens in use the camera to subject distance and the taking aperture The smaller the aper ture and the shorter the focal length of the lens the greater the depth of field Also the closer the subject the shallower the depth of field These three factors can operate independently or in conjunction with one an other with any one factor capable of partially canceling the effects of the other Thus by careful selection and use the pho
28. nd rotate toward the front this action releases the mounting clamps then depress the finder release button at the rear of the camera body and lift the finder out of the camera To attach a viewfinder other than a Photomic type model set it in position and press down firmly until it clicks and locks into place on the camera To attach a Photomic type model including the F2SB Photomic finder included with the camera first set the aperture ring of the lens if mounted to the maximum aperture setting then gently position the finder on the camera and firmly press it down until it clicks and locks into place see Photo A Once in place turn the finder s shutter speed selector left or right until it engages with the camera s shutter speed dial and the two can be turned in tandem see Photo B Lastly index the lens aperture ring with the finder as described in Changing the Lens on page 38 40 CHANGING THE FOCUSING SCREEN Nineteen different types of focusing screens are avail able for use with the Nikon F2SB Photomic camera each designed to meet specific focusing requirements The Nikon Type K screen comes with the camera as standard equipment To change the focusing screen first remove the finder as described on the preceding page Then turn the camera body upside down and press the finder release button a second time to release the screen To mount a screen simply place it in position with the flat side facin
29. orrect shutter releasing is just as im portant as steady camera holding After advancing the film to a fresh frame the camera is set for shutter release via the button provided at the upper right When taking the picture hold the camera steady as explained pre viously relax and depress the button using a steady even pressure to release the camera s shutter remember a quick jab of the finger will cause camera movement and may result in a blurred photograph Operation via Cable Release The shutter release button can also be operated via a cable release or similar accessory attached via the thread ed mount provided With the cable release operation is more vibration free and often leads to sharper images under critical shooting situations such as photomicro graphy time exposure etc To attach the cable release Nikon mount models AR 2 etc to the camera screw the threaded cable connector onto the mount provided around the button The shutter is then tripped by de pressing the release plunger FOCUSING Focusing isdone at full aperture with Nikkor lenses fitted with an automatic diaphragm This technique provides the brightest possible images on the focusing screen for easy focusing and composing It also minimizes depth of field so that the image snaps in and out of focus dis tinctly The Nikon Type K screen comes with the camera as standard equipment To focus turn the focusing ring on the lens until the two
30. ose the shutter be careful not to move or shake the camera as a blurred image may result 25 EXPOSURE MEASUREMENT continued Eyepiece Shutter Operation The camera s Photomic finder is fitted with an eyepiece shutter for special unmanned shooting situations e g remote control automated shooting with motor drive and aperture control unit requiring protection against the entry of stray light through the viewfinder eyepiece To close the shutter simply turn the eyepiece shutter control 60 clockwise as the shutter closes the internal LEDs are deactivated and the external correct exposure indicator is switched on for metering operation from atop the finder To set the camera for proper exposure using the external LED indicator simply adjust the aper ture ring and or the shutter speed selector until the LED just glows once the LED comes on the camera is set for correct exposure In addition to its use for low light metering or for un manned photography the eyepiece shutter comes in handy to ensure correct exposure measurement in criti cal shooting situations e g photomicrography or for protection against the entry of bright light into the view finder during daylight shooting 26 High Contrast Lighting Situations When there are substantial brightness differences be tween the main subject and the background unimpor tant bright spots or dark spots can adversely influence the finder reading and thus the f
31. prism focusing spot for viewing and focusing in poor light Four models G1 G4 are available corresponding to specific focal length lenses Depth of field cannot be observed Type H Clear Fresnel field with microprism focus ing pattern over the entire screen area Permits rapid focusing on any part of the screen with opti mum edge to edge brightness in poor light Availa ble in four models H1 H4 corresponding to par ticular focal length lenses Type J Matte Fresnel field with central microprism focusing spot and 12 circle Good for general photography Type Combination of Type A and J screens Matte Fresnel field with 3mm split image range finder spot surrounded by Imm wide microprism doughnut Rapid and accurate focusing for sub jects with both straight lines and ill defined con tours Suitable for general photography Type M Fine ground Fresnel field with 5 5 clear spot and double cross hair for use in parallax focusing on aerial image plus millimeter scales for calculation of individual magnification of objects or for measuring objects Brilliant image in dim light Suitable for close ups photomicrography and other high magnification applications Type P Same as Type K but with split image rangefinder line at a 45 angle etched horizon tal and vertical lines as an aid to composition Rapid and accurate focusing for subject with horizontal or vertical lines or ill defined
32. rated with dots for odd numbers and figures for even numbers and with settings of 5 12 20 and 36 in red 11 OPERATION OF CAMERA CONTROLS continued T L Fingerguard The shutter release button of the Nikon F2SB Photomic camera is fitted with a fingerguard that also doubles as the shutter operation mode selector Set to the middle position the fingerguard provides for normal shutter release via the shutter button To lock the shutter to pre vent accidental release lift up and turn the fingerguard until the index dot aligns with the L lock marking For time exposures preset via the camera s built in self timer lift up and turn the fingerguard until the index dot aligns with the time marking See Time Ex posures on page 25 for details Self Timer The built in self timer can be used to trip the shutter after a delay of from 2 to 10 seconds The numbers marked on the timer scale indicate the delay in seconds To take a picture using the self timer to fire the camera first set the aperture and shutter speed controls advance the film and cock the self timer by turning its lever downward until the index line on the lever aligns with the figure on the scale corresponding to the desired number of seconds delay then simply press the small button just above the timer to start the countdown with shutter release occurring at the completion of the cycle Note that the
33. readed PC terminal provided for off camera flash operation Synchronization range 1 2000 1 125 sec 1 30 1 sec and B for FP bulbs 1 30 1 sec and B for M and MF bulbs 1 80 1 sec and for electronic flash Accessory shoe Special Nikon type built into body fitted with hot shoe contact and electric safety switch which turns on contact as flash unit is mounted Viewfinder Interchangeable eyelevel pentaprism type with built in through the lens TTL exposure meter model DP 3 selected aperture and shutter speed in dicated below viewfield eyepiece shutter provided Focusing screen Matte Fresnel field with central split image rangefinder surrounded by microprism ring 12mm diameter reference circle defines area of meter center weighting Nikon Type K screen 46 Reflex mirror Instant return type lockup lever provided Exposure metering Through the lens center weighted full aperture measurement employing two silicon photo diodes SPD for fast response exposure correctly set by adjusting for illumination of single central light emitting diode LED indicator meter cross coupled with both diaphragm and shutter speed controls powered by two 1 5V silver oxide batteries Metering range EV 2 EV 17 i e f 1 4 at 8 seconds f 8 at 1 2000 second with 50mm f 1 4 lens and ASA 100 Film speed scale Settings provided for ASA 12 6400 Lens diaphragm coupling Built in meter coupling pin for automatic lenses
34. self timer can be set either before or after advancing film also if you decide not to use the self timer after setting it simply use the shutter button in the normal way to make the next exposure and to release the self timer for resetting to the off position The self timer may not be used at the shutter speed dial setting UNLOADING FILM When the frame counter indicates that the last exposure has been made or when the film advance lever can no longer be stroked the roll of film has been fully exposed and it should be removed To unload the camera first press the rewind button on the camera baseplate then unfold the rewind crank and turn it in the direction of the engraved arrow using a smooth even pressure When no more tension is felt and the film advance indicator the colored dot on the re wind button stops rotating the film leader has left the take up spool and the camera back may be opened After opening the camera back pull the rewind knob up as far as it will go and remove the film cartridge Note that as the film advance lever is stroked for the next ex posure the rewind button will be released to engage the film advance mechanism Caution Be careful not to push the rewind button during film advance operation Should this occur the film transport will temporarily stop and double exposure may result Note The camera back can be removed from the body by de pressing the locking catch on the hin
35. sts the size of the aperture or opening in the iris diaphragm To pre set the lens aperture turn the aperture ring until the de sired f number setting on the scale is aligned with the index mark provided on the lens The iris diaphragm can also be set to intermediate apertures between the click stop settings for more precise exposures Film Advance Lever The film advance lever simultaneously advances the film cocks the shutter and operates the frame counter It also switches on the exposure meter in the Photomic finder To advance the film stroke the lever with the right thumb in a single stroke or series of strokes total ing only 120 A built in locking device prevents the shutter from being released unless it is fully cocked and the film advanced a full frame At the completion of film advance release the lever and it will return to the 20 standoff position ready for shutter release Note Do not apply pressure to the film advance lever while making an exposure Frame Counter The frame counter operates automatically to show how many frames have been exposed When the camera back is opened for loading the counter is reset to the 5 start position two frames before 0 Once the camera is loaded and the back closed each film advance shutter release sequence will cause the frame counter to advance one position until the maximum 20 or 36 frames have been exposed The dial of the frame counter is calib
36. tation in critical articles or reviews may be made without written authorization from the publishers Printed in Japan 77 5 C amp 4
37. the red index triangle is aligned with the ASA value for the film in use The meter is sensitive across the full range of from ASA 12 to ASA 6400 The film speed dial has two dots be tween each pair of numbers for intermediate settings such as 64 80 125 etc 2000 250 2500 4000 5000 OPERATION OF CAMERA CONTROLS Setting the Shutter Speed The Nikon F2SB Photomic camera can be set to the de sired shutter speed either before or after the shutter is wound Speeds of from 1 second to 1 2000 second are set via the shutter speed selector fitted on the finder the selector is also provided with a B setting for longer time exposures To set the shutter speed turn the selec tor until the desired speed is aligned with the white dot when aligned with settings of from 2 to 2000 the actual shutter speed will be a fractional value of from 1 2 sec ond to 1 2000 second The red line provided between the 1 60 sec and 1 125 sec settings indicates 1 80 second the fastest shutter speed providing X synchroni zation for use with electronic flash units When more precise settings are required intermediate shutter speeds of from 1 80 sec to 1 2000 sec are usable At the setting the shutter speed remains open as long as the shutter release button is depressed See Flash Synchro nization on page 34 for additional information on flash photography Setting the Aperture The ring fitted at the base of the lens adju
38. tographer can exercise wide creative control over the final picture Depth of Field Preview Button As most Nikkor lenses are operated at full aperture for ease of focusing visualization of the depth of field at the shooting aperture may be difficult Thus the camera s depth of field preview button often can come in handy The depth of field preview button lets you check or preview the zone of sharpness at any time before or after shooting Simply by depressing the button the lens is stopped down to the preselected aperture to allow you to see how much background and foreground is in or out of focus DEPTH OF FIELD continued Depth of Field Indicators Depth of field can be read directly from the distance scale in meters or feet with the aid of the color coded depth of field indicators engraved on the lens barrel Each pair of colored lines on either side of the central distance scale index line corresponds to f numbers of the same color on the aperture scale To find the depth of field at a particular aperture first focus the lens on the subject while looking through the viewfinder Then check the numbers on the distance scale to determine the zone of focus for the aperture in use The three photos shown clearly depict the changing depth of field with the photo to the right the field is shallow at the f 4 setting while the photo at the far right shows a depth of field extending from approximately 2 7m 9 ft to in
39. with maximum apertures of from f 1 2 to 5 6 meter diaphragm coupling of from f 1 2 to f 32 Film winding Via single stroke lever with 120 winding angle and 20 stand off angle lever also serves as meter ON OFF switch Frame counter Shows number of frames exposed ad ditive type automatically resets to 5 two frames before 0 when camera back is opened Film rewinding Manual via film rewind crank coupling provided on baseplate for rewind via motor drive Depth of field preview Via button provided on front of camera Body finish Satin chrome and semi gloss black Weight 850g body only Dimensions 152 5mm x 102mm x 66mm THE NIKON WARRANTY The Nikon Worldwide Service Warranty Registration Card which identifies your F2SB Photomic camera by its serial number is your guarantee that the camera you buy is a new one When you return this card to a Nikon dis tributor you will receive your Nikon Worldwide Service Warranty Certificate which entitles you to a one year warranty anywhere throughout the world subject to the conditions listed in the certificate Only an authorized Nikon dealer can provide you with a Nikon Warranty Registration Card We cannot guar antee any camera or lens sold to you by an unauthorized dealer without a Warranty Registration Card since it may be second hand equipment 47 NIPPON KOGAKU No reproduction in any form of this booklet in whole or in part except for brief quo
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