Nikon FG

with 50mm F1.8 Series E

The Nikon FG is a compact and lightweight 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera introduced by Nikon Corporation in 1982. It was designed as an entry-level camera, offering advanced features like aperture-priority autoexposure and program mode in an affordable and user-friendly package. The FG was part of Nikon's compact SLR series, which also included the Nikon FM2, FE2, and FA. Here’s a detailed look at the Nikon FG:

Historical Context

• The Nikon FG was released in 1982 as a successor to the Nikon EM (1979), which was Nikon's first fully automatic SLR.

• It was designed to appeal to beginner photographers who wanted a simple and affordable camera with advanced features.

• The FG was part of Nikon's strategy to compete with other popular entry-level SLRs like the Canon AE-1 Program and Pentax ME Super.

• It remained in production until 1986, when it was replaced by the Nikon FG-20.

Key Features

1. Exposure Modes:

   • The FG offered three exposure modes:

     • Program Mode (P): The camera automatically selected both the aperture and shutter speed for optimal exposure.

     • Aperture-Priority Autoexposure (A): The photographer set the aperture, and the camera selected the appropriate shutter speed.

     • Manual Mode (M): The photographer controlled both the aperture and shutter speed.

   

2. TTL Metering System:

   • The FG used a center-weighted TTL (through-the-lens) metering system, which measured light through the lens for accurate exposures.

   • The meter was powered by two 1.5V silver oxide batteries (SR44 or equivalent).

3. Shutter:

   • The FG featured a vertical-travel, electronically controlled shutter with speeds ranging from 1 second to 1/1000 second, plus Bulb mode.

   • The shutter was known for its quiet operation and precision.

4. Viewfinder:

   • The FG had a fixed prism viewfinder with 92% frame coverage and a 0.84x magnification.

   • The viewfinder displayed shutter speed, aperture, and exposure mode information, making it highly user-friendly.

5. Lens Compatibility:

   • The FG used the Nikon F-mount, making it compatible with a wide range of Nikkor lenses, including AI (Automatic Indexing) and AI-S lenses.

   • Popular lenses included the 50mm f/1.8, 35mm f/2, and 105mm f/2.5.

6. Build Quality:

   • The FG was built to be lightweight and compact, with a polycarbonate body and chrome finish.

   • Despite its plastic construction, it was designed for durability and reliability.

7. Film Advance and Rewind:

   • The camera featured a rapid-wind lever for quick film advance and an automatic rewind function at the end of the roll.

8. Accessories:

   • The FG was compatible with a range of accessories, including:

     • Speedlight SB-15: A compact external flash unit designed for use with the FG.

     • Motor Drive MD-E: Allowed for continuous shooting at up to 2.5 frames per second.

Notable Variants

The Nikon FG was part of Nikon's compact SLR series, which included several models:

1. Nikon EM (1979): A fully automatic camera with aperture-priority autoexposure.

2. Nikon FG (1982): Introduced program mode and manual exposure control.

3. Nikon FG-20 (1984): A simplified version of the FG without program mode.

Why the Nikon FG is Special

• Ease of Use: The FG's program mode and aperture-priority autoexposure made it easy for beginners to achieve proper exposure, while its manual controls appealed to more experienced photographers.

• Affordability: The FG offered advanced features at an accessible price point, making it a popular choice for entry-level photographers.

• Versatility: The FG's compatibility with a wide range of lenses and accessories made it highly adaptable to different shooting scenarios.

• Legacy: The FG helped establish Nikon as a leader in the entry-level camera market, paving the way for later models like the Nikon FG-20 and N2000 (F-301).

Collectibility and Market Value

• The Nikon FG is highly collectible, particularly among fans of vintage Nikon cameras.

• Prices vary depending on the condition, included accessories, and whether the camera has its original packaging.

• Well-preserved models with working meters and clean optics tend to command higher prices.

Conclusion

The Nikon FG is a classic SLR camera that combines ease of use, affordability, and versatility. Its program mode and compatibility with a wide range of lenses made it a favorite among beginner and enthusiast photographers during its heyday. Today, it remains a beloved camera for collectors and film photography enthusiasts, representing an important chapter in Nikon's storied history.