How to Use a Nikon F3 35mm Film Camera

Click on 'Show More' for Timestamps, Related Videos, and Equipment Links Below!
Cameras and Lenses -

Battery and Film -
(Make sure to get two!)

Camera Accessories -

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0:00 - Intro
0:13 - Batteries
1:14 - ON Switch
1:38 - Changing Lenses
2:02 - Loading Film
2:30 - Film Reminder Window
2:55 - Setting the ISO / ASA
3:31 - Shutter Speed Dial A, X, T, B
4:34 - Mechanical Shutter Release
4:50 - Long Exposures with the Mechanical Shutter
5:29 - Viewfinder Door
5:46 - Shutter Dial Speeds
6:15 - Waking Up the Light Meter
6:43 - Shooting Without Batteries
7:14 - Exposure Compensation
8:20 - 10 Second Timer
8:55 - Viewfinder and Pentaprism
9:10 - Removing the Viewfinder
9:31 - LCD Illumination Button
10:19 - Removing the Focusing Screen
10:34 - Aperture Ring
11:07 - Depth of Field Preview Button
11:31 - Depth of Field Lens Markings & Focusing Ring
12:40 - Attaching the Viewfinder
12:46 - How to Focus in the Viewfinder
13:17 - Light Meter
13:35 - Shooting in Manual Mode
14:08 - Exposure Lock Button
14:43 - Advancing the Film
15:00 - Shot Counter
15:09 - Double Exposure Lever
15:45 - Mirror Lock Up
16:56 - Non-AI Vs. AI Nikon Lens
19:32 - PC Sync Flash Port
19:58 - Flash Hot Shoe
20:22 - Rewinding the Film
20:56 - Outro

This video will show you how to use the Nikon F3 SLR film camera. I go through all of the buttons and functions of the entire camera. The Nikon F3 is a sturdy and reliable camera that is commonly used by photography students and film hobbyists. Most of this video also applies to variants of the Nikon F3. The Nikon F3 can accept both AI and Non-AI Nikon F Mount camera lenses. There is a specific part of this video where I explain the difference between AI and Non-AI Nikon lenses, which you can find in the timestamps.

NOTE: This description contains affiliate links that allow you to find the items mentioned in this video and support the channel at no cost to you. Viewers are NOT obligated to use these links! If you do purchase any items through these links than a million Thank Yous for your support of this channel! You allow me to continue making content!

[cristinahernandez]

My dad got this camera in 1981 as a present from my grandfather. We were moving and found it a few weeks ago, and it still works perfectly. Watched your video to kind of get an idea of how it works so I can take pictures with my dad since we don't spend that much time together, so thanks so much for explaining

[exert]

just a note...if anyone is having issues with rapid battery drain do the following. it's very rare and they usually last for months or years but I've heard it's been an issue for some. simply take battery out and thoroughly clean battery and compartment with deionised water...even if it looks spotless and reapply battery holding just the sides or with gloves on. even a slight layer of oils can effect performance. as soon as I did this issue resolved and battery currently going strong after 6 months. apart from this the camera is a real tank and lovely to shoot with. enjoy everyone

[TXLorenzo]

The Nikon F3 is the original Italian super model, a classic beauty that never ages.

[robertdillon]

Had my F3 in a cupboard for 30 years, this was a great refresher course on the cameras functions - Thank you.

[jaym]

Very helpful video for people who may have picked up one of these excellent cameras and are not sure how to use it. I have 5 of them and also found it helpful. There are a number of H2 videos on YouTube where people who do not really know what they are talking about attempt to explain these things, to a point. This video is the real deal, so just use this one!

[matteovrizzi]

this is the best visual manual for the F3
thank you

[cbnfvr]

Just picked up an F3 today! Really appreciate this video, helping me to understand this beautiful camera.

[Bee-pibm]

Thanks so much for doing this video! I have my F3 for years, but I got it second hand with no manual and I learned so much!

[bluebiegrace]

Wow!!! The most thorough Nikon F3 guide!! Thank you very much 😊.

[danduvall]

This is a very informative video that I keep coming back to. So nice to have such a clear & thorough tutorial in a sea of half-baked Nikon F3 YouTube videos. Much appreciated!

[HENNO.]

2020. This was released 40 years ago! And I just got mine today.

[semper_fi_centeno]

You have no idea how much this video helped me omg. Thank you so much

[williammarkey]

Learned some new things about my F3! Best camera tutorial; very thorough.

[applecake]

used to shoot digital with a loaner camera from my school, but since graduating and not being able to afford a dslr + lenses, i dug out my dad's camera kit with the f3 and a telephoto. i've been using the manual shutter release until i get the chance to pick up the right batteries but it's done me well so far. i can't wait to go adventuring with this camera over the summer. thanks for such a useful intro vid for this camera :)

[filmasart]

GREAT tutorial. I’ve had any number of cameras for 25 years but this was my first Nikon. A few idiosyncrasies unique to Nikon. Thanks for the quick overview it helped me a lot.

[McFitschii]

thanks for this very informative video, can't wait to get my F3 tomorrow.

[skadidal]

Never owned a film SLR, but this video made me want to buy one. Great video! Thanks.

[Mrshrdalot]

amazing video! I just got my Nikon f3 and am super excited to use! I was a bit confused with the light meter, but now think I understand. Thank you so much!

[GabrielBongailas]

Wow, this was an amazing video and very imfomative I never knew such an old camera was packed with all that technology that we take for granted today. You are the best Prime Studios, I'll be watching all your videos FOR SURE!

[filmic]

Nice survey! Very clear audio... thank-you.