Camera Geekery: The Nikon F6 

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Press F6 to pay respects

I miss photographs that look like photographs and not just images. Great stuff sir.

But that film canister cap! 😫

Man, I wasn't really expecting to get a little emotional when I clicked on this. Great video as always.

The problem with the last “three wise kings” of the Nikon film age (The F100, the F5 and the F6) is that they seem to be designed as if film was a burden to them. Holding these cameras in your hands, and using them, you can understand pretty well the technological evolution that took to the replacing of film rolls by digital sensors. You almost don’t get to touch the film strip - loading, advancing and rewinding are automated. So, when shooting film I think that models such as the F3 or the FM2 give you a more organic and “sensory” relationship with film, which is now more enjoyable than ever.

The F6 is definitely a symbol of Nikon’s transitional phase coming 5 years after the D1. But it did survive 16 years in Nikon’s catalog in an era of silicon film. Personally it represented an obvious end point in the line of flagship Nikon 35mm SLRs given that it didn’t have interchangeable viewfinders, what had once been a defining characteristic of flagship SLRs. The last new Nikon film camera that I bought was the F100 and it remains one of my favourite cameras of that period but it felt as though I barely used it before I got my first DSLR. The really sad thing is that Nikon will likely never again produce limited edition cameras like it did with the S3 2000 but the reality is that the technical skills and experience for designing mechanical cameras was already rapidly disappearing back then. And that part of Nikon’s history and heritage is gone forever which is why I occasionally take out my F3s, F2AS, FE2 and FM2t to experience firing the shutter and operating the film advance.

As a Canon analogue EOS1N, 1NRS, EOS 3 and EOS1V shooter I am lamenting Nikon's decision to manufacture their cameras away from Japan. All the more reason to cherish the Nikon F range. The best way to demonstrate your respect is to use them every chance you have.

When Canon discontinued the 1V in 2018 I thought “at least there is the F6” but that didn’t last long. I admire the F6 and would love one if I had Nikon Lenses. I have 3 beautiful 1V’s through so I’ll survive

F6 is my dream camera, having it discontinued feels like one of my dream crushed (I pretty much reacted the same way when reading the news).

F cameras will be missed! I wish Nikon produced the SP or F again as a regular member of the Nikon camera lineup (Like Leica with the M-A or MP) Thanks for the video, just as heartbroken as you are!

Be nice to have the very very last f6 to come out of the nikon factory...

I began my Nikon journey by buying a pair of (meterless) F's in 1959. Since then I have acquired one or more samples/models of each of the F series through to the F6 all of which I still have. Like you, the F3Hp is my favourite, but you have provided me with some inspiration to get out the F6 and treat it to some fresh film. Thank you.

I have my original F3HP from 1986, another F3 that is a close serial number, and an F4S. They'll be with me to the last day. Even if film goes away, I'll keep them for all the great experiences they witnessed with me. Nikon never let me down. I do use a D850 now and like it very much. However, I still use plenty of film in the others.

I have to now purchase an F6 to round out my collection of F cameras (F thru F5). My collection will be complete and will encapsulate a complete era. All my Nikons are mechanical masterpieces that will never be replicated, sad.

A sad passing of an era. It was always a pleasure for me to shoot with Nikon film cameras. Never had any problems with them. My only complaint was the rubbery leatherette grip wearing out & peeling after a while but given they were used professionally it was understandable. I consider it as a medium-term expendable. Although I still have all of my film cameras to this day, unfortunately I haven't used them for at least a decade now. I miss making images on my favorite films like RVP, RDP, TMX, Tri-X, NPH, NPS, etc. The mass move to digital in early & mid 2000's created a situation in my city where it was difficult to find true professional film labs & traditional photography supply stores even 15 years ago. Not even sure if there is any lab that still processes film here. ☹ You are blessed to be living in Japan where there are most likely a few specialist stores & labs that cater to traditional photography enthusiasts.

your videos get better and better each time!

I wanted an F5 or F6 but could never afford them, but loved my Nikon F90x until it broke but now have a Nikon F100 as my film camera and love it to bits!!

I am convinced your favorite Nikon lens is that 45mm pancake boi and I can’t even blame you it’s so handsome. Rest in power to the mighty f6!

While 'bad' for business, I am super-glad that Nikon dedicated their resources to cameras like the FM3a and F6, even though digital probably had already overtaken film 2 or 3 years before they were even produced. Kinda' like Leica, in that they seemed to be targeting deep-pocketed camera afficionados, as opposed to the professional/commercial market. I have seen a couple of RU-vid videos of owners complaining that the leatherette was peeling off of their F6's, which is inexcusable given its price point and what I would expect of a "professional" grade body. A couple of years ago, I was offered a good deal on a used F6. The thought of owning the supposed "most advanced" 35mm film camera and the last 'professional' grade 35mm film Nikon was very tempting, however, I took a pass. If I could only own one, and was forced to choose, I would rather have the Nikon FM3a. The way I see it, one of several reasons why I love shooting film, is the (relative) simplicity of the cameras and workflow. If I have to contend with all those menus, buttons, and choices, I might as well shoot digital. Simplicity is divinity.

Darkly funny but also tragic and the death knell for any film camera revivals. I felt the same when hearing of their off-shoring of production. Makes me think companies like Fuji are more likely to survive long term as they appear committed to feeding the souls of their customers.

It's always satisfying to see the culmination of a lot of effort and technology make a really great camera.

Really appreciate this video-it truly is a stark juxtaposition to visiting the Nikon museum. The announcement about discontinuing the manufacture of Nikon cameras in Japan is, I agree, perhaps the more significant announcement. Hard to think the knowledge will every come back. Life does move on and I will keep on shooting my F6 until it one day can no longer be repaired. Then I will rely on you Bellamy to find me a new one !!!! Thanks for all your great work.

that.s an amazing fast load, even faster than the F5, searching for an F6 though, and just bought one after this film. Great work!

Unreal photos on this one Bellamy! Recently picked up my first Nikon F and hopefully not my last. Truly an incredible lineage. Rip the F6

Love the "retro press" burst sound.

At 65, I don't miss film at all. Been there, done that.....including years and years of 4x5. Give me digital any day.

I Feel Your pain, and to make you feel better that I have 3 Nikon F's Two from 1968, and the other from 1969, and I just got one for my Birthday a 1974 F2. As my first Nikon product that I got was a Used Nikkormat Ftn with a 50mm 2.0 as was a like and built like a TANK. I just got the Nikkormat (Still got it along with my Nikon Gear)that I was using a Praktica camera, I still have it in a display case. I did not have the heart to get rid of it as it still works. Later last year that I received for my birthday a 1974 MINT Nikon F2 it was from my girlfriend from Japan, as she saw me using a Nikon film camera when we were knowing each other. All my lenses for my Nikon are all Nikkors manual focus lenses with that warm coating glow as yes I do see a difference as when using these lenses that I was using Ektachrome, Fujichrome, and Kodachrome with Ilford, and Fuji B/W films that I was very please with the results. As when I hold my 50mm Nikkor F2.0 that I am please of the Sharpness, and Contrast that I use that lens on my digital models. So along when I switch to Digital that I got my line of the AF Nikkors from late 1980's that I was very please of the optics, and also Made In Japan as I did get the Fuji/Nikon digital of the Fuji S2Pro, S3Pro, and S5Pro, and then lately got the Nikon D2Xs, and then switch to the Mirrorless Fuji X models that again using my manual Nikkors via an adapter as I was very Happily very please in the results of the Nikon Glass still holds the sharpness even still that is what Nikon stands out for. I save money in using in what I have through all the years that Nikon was in business in making Great Lenses. And for the record that I will NEVER buy a New Nikon or Lens that is made in Thailand. Nor I will never buy a Z Nikon camera from Nikon that does not mean anything that it can take a photo without someone next to you is bragging about their camera as they are not a Photo Shooter. Your Right Bellamy Nikon is no longer a Optical company it is an Electronic Company like SONY, and Panasonic - And if Nikon does go like the others of Bad Decision Planning by Nikon as just you watch that the model that your presenting will go up in Price $$$$ but not as a film camera but to Collectors or Wanna Be Photographers just to show off as not only the F6 but ALL the Nikon Products eg: Lenses from the 1960's to 1970's will jump to its Photo Value as when they were sold orgingally and maybe even More. Photography is dead with these so called wanna be shooters that drag their Sony's, and Lumix, and pretend to be Magnum Shooters, But your website, and You Tube just brings me cheers in upon seeing that there are film shooters that are dedicated to be film shooters as your section of what's in my bag just inspire me to continued with in what I have in my Nikon gear.. Thank you for your RU-vid Videos, and web site, and to ALL the Shooters that Still shoot film when they present themselves onto RU-vid. Love your Videos.

I would not agree that the F6 was a response to the EOS1V. The last professional Nikon film camera was the Nikon F5. Most press photographers had gone digital even when the 1V came out. When the F6 arrived nobody shot 35mm film professionally. The F6 is was Nikon’s attempt at making a more or less perfect film camera. There is an interview with the designer where he explains in detail how the F6 was meant to be a smooth pleasurable camera to shoot with rather than a work horse. As far a work horses go the F5 really set a standard. The EOS1N was fragile in comparison, pushing Canon to release the more robust 1V. I don’t know it its a problem that Nikon moved production. Most western companies did the same a long time ago.

Great video. This thing completely cured my decade-long G.A.S. addiction. My favorite lenses on it are the VR series.

I particularly like the photos you made with this camera here 👍

This one hurt to watch, not because it was bad, but because it made some really good (and as a Nikon shooter, disheartening) points.

My kit: Leica & F6. Does not get better.

After testing the Nikon waters with an F100 recently, I went ahead and bought the F6, which literally turned up yesterday and I have just put a test roll through it that is hanging up to dry. I am using Zeiss Milvus lenses with it so I'm not sure about the AF speed but the viewfinder is incredible and MUCH easier to focus than the F100, the customisation of all the settings is amazing and being able to store all my EXIF data and also print that same data between the frames makes it ideal for me. Looking forward to many years ahead together :)

Watching this I seeing a pristine body where if I’m in a resale shop here in North America I might get something with scratches, dinged up and dented body maybe a some shelf dust. But this is gourmet. So awesome do more Geekery videos thanks.

Its sad that Nikon is moving all camera production out of Japan, but let's not ignore the fact that Nikon makes some of their best products, including the D850, in Thailand

I remember when I was in college take a photography courses someone brought in a F3 one day and it blew our minds. It had not been out that long.

There’s something about holding a Nikon DSLR camera vs the mirrorless Nikon today. But, theres something very special about holding a Nikon F camera. I started with the F301 when that came out in 85 as a kid, moved up to F4, F100, F5, and briefly F6. I now use a mirrorless Z7 and Z50. I am looking to purchase an F6 or F100 and shoot film again for fun. Turn off the cell phone, grab the Nikon F100 or 6 and just head out like the old days.

I am grateful to score one of these. It breaks my heart that Nikon doesn't produce film cameras anymore, especially knowing that film gets more popular. Such is life.

A sad ending, indeed - but what a camera to go out on. Great vid!

This was the thing that pushed me over the edge and got me to buy one.... :D well done! :P

This is my dream camera. I just hope the price won`t sky-rocket now. Thanks a lot for the great video!

Excellent video Bellamy and wonderful photos with the F6, but sorry to here that Nikon will not be manufacturing another pro F model. Let us hope that will change one day.

Nikon should take the D6 and put a film transport in it and call it the F7. It's nice to see that Leica just announced a new film camera - an updated M6.

Amazing work, you're making me cry over here.

I love that when they made the F6 Nikon set out to make the greatest and most refined SLR they possibly could. What a beautiful unit.

My first film camera was a nikon N75 when I was in middle school. In college I used a fm2 and f5 combo. They were so well made in Japan that these cameras still work 20 + years later!. I hate to hear this about Nikon! Now leica is the only manufacturer that still makes a well made film camera and they have gotten rid of one of their film cameras in the past few years - the M7. Lets Keep film Alive!

This truly is my dream SLR and I kick myself for passing on such a good deal for this camera around this time last year

Have 3 F5s including my first I walked into B&H in 1998 and still use. Waiting on a 4th. The F6 was an idea for later, but perhaps F5 is my magic number for the foreseeable future.

Nice video. Great camera. Keep up the great work.

Wonder if it's worth finding one of these.. It looks so "Filmy". Love that back. Man... Thanks Man you've done it again!!

Great camera, great video and bloody great music!

I should buy one. I have a F100 today.

Probably never going to have F6 but still that is sad news. Right now the ebay prices are close 1000 euros. Worth it but too expensive for me.

Very Nice review! I too am saddened by Nikons decision to end the F6. I looked into getting one last year while they were available unfortunately I did not act fast enough. I did acquire an F100 and an F3 that I am very happy with, although the F6 is still on my list. After your video my mission is to obtain an F6.

Such a human touch with the Nikon F6 tears

The apple doesn't fall far from the Giugiaro (Bellamy Hunt, 2021) XD. Great video, hope one day to get my hand on one of these, the F3 is my favorite all time camera, it's always on my bag, but the F6 with all the "modern" fonctions would be interesting to shoot with.

Why do I get such apocalyptic vibes from the photo at 5:16? It's a ripper by the way, nice to see this review.

it is sad to see. The F3 is my favourite camera as well and it would have been so pleasing to see Nikon make another film camera at some point.

An aloooominum Nye-kon. Got it.

Fantastic camera. I love it. So good as my Fujica ST 801

Stuff like this just happens I guess, companies come and go - in 20 years film will be what 8mm film is today, dead or extremely inaccessible. I hope I am wrong.

After all these years, I still want to own one ☝🏼.

Nikon F80 here in my bag!

6:47 No, no, no, the true heir to the Nikon F series throne is the Nikon F5 camera and that's it. next one😅

Yup, a great shame, have used Nikon in film and digital for a long time. But the F series will exist for decades, partly because they are so well made.

That's why I love my F100 and will never ever sell mine.

those shallow ones are so dreamy

Steve McCurry used an F6 with the AF Nikkor 50mm f1.8D to shoot the last-ever sold roll of Kodakchrome with. And now both camera and film are now discontinued.

I still want one. 😢

First of all thank you for your brilliant videos. I only came across your channel recently but I have now seen all of them and they are great. My first Nikon was an F2 with a F 1.2 prime lens which I bought second hand in Japan in (i think) 1975. I later traded it in for a newer model but in hindsight how I wish that I had kept it. Thats life, once again thanks for all the work you put into the videos .

First Olympus and now this, how sad........

I wish you can do a review of a medium format Mamiya 6. That could be one of my bucket list cameras

Belamy, do you have experience with MB-40 battery grips having their paint peel of? Do you know if this happens to all grips? Cheers.

One day, this camera will be mine.

This is sad for 35mm film cameras in general with the cessation of the F6 production. I have always admired the F6 and still may get myself one to go alongside my awesome F5.

Nikons D line is amazing too tho and so is the Z series! I think Nikon is making great reliable equipment regardless of the choices the company has made, evolution and change is always necessary.

I just got my new never used F6. I need to know what primes are the sharpest for it?

I've never owned any Nikon (except a Linhoff sized lensboard....) but it has been and always is a respectable name for all shooters, digital or analogue, large or small formats. If they decided to pull the plug, they probably did it after some serious consideration.

T.y. for this video. Did you pick up the cartridgelid? Does aiming hurt you?

As a Nikon addict I dream of having one I have F4s and F5 and F100 plus numerous manual focusing Nikon’s and they are used and not sat on a shelf love to see Nikon again produce another film camera alas it will never happen sadly

some really great shots in this one and in colour its rare i say that.

I enjoyed the video and images 😎

Bought an F6 in 2005 because I thought the D2 just wasn't quite up to the mark (D2x was better). Then in 2019 I bought another brand new F6 as I heard rumours then it was being discontinued.

How do you upload the images to the internet?

I’m considering an F6. Can you clarify the lenses issue that you ran into? It’s my understanding that AF-D lenses are supported?

For a long time, I am always eager to using the Nikon F6. I really love Nikon F’s line up (I have the Nikon F, F2 & and F4). Is it really recommended to buy the Nikon F6?

HELLO HOW ARE YOU. I JUST PICKED UP A LEICA R8 BUT BEFORE I RUN A ROLL OF FILM. I LIKE TO TEST THE SHUTTER FRIST WHAT WOULD BE THE SITTING TO DO SO. THANK YOU

Sayonara F series :(, you will be miss

Even on my F100 and F80 bodies the continuous mode gives my wallet the chills. So much so that I don’t think I’ve ever used it.

Well today they were sad tissues, but who knows maybe tomorrow they'll be happy tissues. Ps. That bgm was sweet.

can't wait for the Nikon F7.

Finally took the plunge to get an almost-new F6 before I regret it. I love my F100 but the sticky back problem is a matter of 'when' not 'if', by which time getting a mint F6 will likely more expensive (I had a sticky F100 once and it was enough to make me never want to use it). At least I've reached the top with the F6, with no newer and better Nikon 35mm SLR to lust after. That 24-70mm 2.8G is a perfect companion for it too.

@4:30, shot of Tower Records is awesome analog on analog nostalgia. Are they still in business?

Cue Anakin Skywalker's NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! and add a sad face... Snif.

Like the EOS1v, it was late to the party. Both filled a niche for which there was a vanishing market. I wonder what the DSLR end of line cameras will be?

4:50 Ulysses Aoki

To this I would add that all of you who own any of the Nikon F series cameras, hang on to them. you'll regret selling them if you make that decision. like collector cars going through the roof and higher with their prices in recent times, Nikon film cameras will do the same, especially those in really good condition. I'm just glad I was able to build up my collection when prices were still reasonable. I just need to add an F5 & F6 to what I have to complete the set. plus will still buy any other in between consumer models as well to add to it. 🙂

If my N90s could use G Lenses at all apertures, I'd be totally happy with it, but an F100/F5/F6 might be on the horizon.

My EOS ELAN IIE works with my L series glass perfectly fine ☺️