Nikon* FE2 | Frank Titze

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Nikon* FE2

Overview

The Nikon* FE2 is a classic 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera that was produced by Nikon* from 1983 to 1987. It is part of Nikon's successful "compact" series of manual-focus SLRs, which also includes the FM2 and the original FE. The FE2 is highly regarded by both professional and enthusiast photographers for its robust build, advanced features, and user-friendly design. The FE2 was a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Nikon* FE, and was considered one of the most advanced cameras of its time. Its key features include:
Key Characteristics:

Aperture-Priority and Manual Exposure Modes: The FE2 offers both semi-automatic (aperture-priority) and full manual exposure control, giving the photographer a great deal of flexibility.
Electronically-Controlled Shutter: The camera features a vertical-travel, titanium-bladed focal-plane shutter. This was a major selling point, as it allowed for a remarkably fast maximum shutter speed of 1/4000th of a second, which was the world's fastest at the time of its release. This speed is incredibly useful for shooting with fast lenses in bright conditions.
Fast Flash Synchronization: The FE2 also boasts a very fast flash sync speed of 1/250th of a second, which makes it excellent for flash photography, especially for "fill flash" in bright sunlight.
Through-the-Lens (TTL) Flash Metering: The camera was one of the first in its class to incorporate TTL flash metering, which automatically measures the flash output through the lens to ensure correct exposure. This was a huge step up from older systems and made flash photography much more reliable and convenient. Die Kamera war eine der ersten ihrer Klasse mit TTL-Blitzmessung, bei der die Blitzleistung automatisch durch das Objektiv gemessen wird, um eine korrekte Belichtung sicherzustellen. Dies war ein großer Fortschritt gegenüber älteren Systemen und machte die Blitzfotografie zuverlässiger und einfacher.
Center-Weighted Metering: The built-in light meter uses a center-weighted system, which is highly accurate and a favorite among many photographers for its predictable behavior.
Durable and Compact Body: The FE2 has a solid, all-metal body that is durable yet relatively lightweight. Its design is ergonomic and well-balanced, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.
Lens Compatibility: It uses the Nikon* F-mount and is compatible with most AI-S and AI Nikkor lenses. It's important to note that it cannot use older, non-AI lenses without modification.

In summary, the Nikon* FE2 is often praised for being a perfect blend of modern convenience (aperture priority, TTL flash) and classic manual controls, making it a reliable and versatile tool for a wide range of photographic applications.

Evaluation

(++) Lens Compatibility
(++) Durable, Compact and light Body
(++) Pricetag at end of Sale
(++) Maximum Shutter Speed of 1/4000th Shutter and 1/250th Flash Synchronization
(++) Handling and Functions
(+) Aperture-Priority and Manual Exposure Modes - I use to 95% the Aperture-Priority toghether with the Exposure Memory Button
(-) {en} Comfort - After some hours/days the simple 1970s/1980s design (shared with most competteors of the time) is not very comfortable in the hand. This is even wors with a Metz 45 flash.

The Nikon* FE2 was my fist camera at all.

26.08.25

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