Nikon F Mount: A Film Photographer’s Dream

Walking around on a sunny day, you’ll notice photographers with a variety of cameras – Canon, Nikon, Minolta, Leica, and Pentax are among the favorites in the 35mm film photography community. With film’s resurgence, these vintage cameras, once inexpensive, are now increasing in value, potentially overwhelming newcomers with the array of options available. Here’s why I believe Nikon stands out as an excellent choice.

Since its introduction in 1959, the Nikon F mount has remained largely unchanged for six decades, offering an extensive range of compatible F mount lenses from ultra-wide angles to long telephotos. The Nikon F mount is also notable for being one of the few that’s still actively supported. For instance, not long ago, Voigtlander released a 55mm f/1.2 lens based on an older design, indicating there’s still a vibrant interest and market for this lens mount.

Moreover, even very modern benchmark lenses like the ZEISS Otus or Milvus series include an aperture ring, making them fully compatible with older Nikon cameras, including fully manual ones. This compatibility ensures that photographers can use top-of-the-line contemporary lenses with their vintage Nikon cameras, seamlessly bridging the gap between new and old technology.

While Leica cameras are undeniably beautiful and possess their own unique appeal, their rangefinder system limits their use with very wide angle and telephoto lenses, which are crucial for a diverse range of photography styles. This inherent limitation, coupled with their premium price point, places Nikon’s SLR system in a favorable light. Nikon’s F mount not only supports a vast array of lenses, from vintage to the latest models, but also excels in versatility, allowing photographers to experiment with everything from expansive landscapes to detailed close-ups without compromise. This blend of flexibility, affordability, and the ability to use cutting-edge lenses with classic bodies makes Nikon an unmatched choice for film enthusiasts looking to push the boundaries of their creative expression.