Nikon F3AF Special Situations, Dark subject llIust, Subject with no vertical lines lliust

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- FOCUS - continued -----------------

Special Situations

The F3AF provides autofocus and focus -aid operation in the majority or cases, including such difficult situations as fast- moving sports events, subjects seen through glass, or scenes containing point light sources, such as the flame from a candle or a streetlight at night. However, if the overall subject is dark in tone (e.g. when the illumination level is less than EV 4 at ASAI ISO 100), low in contrast, or lacks a distinct vertical line, the focus-impossible warning blinks or glows continuously to inform you that the camera 'sTTL image displacement detecting sys - tem will not work. In this case , you can set the lens'AM switch ®I to M and focus on the main subject manually using the matte portion of the focusing screen. As an alternative, perform auto - focus or focus -aid operation using another subject, if available, which is located at the same distance as the one you want to photograph ; then , with the focus lock button depressed on autofocus or without changing the distance setting in focus-aid operation, point the camera at the original subject and take the picture.

Dark subject (llIust_ 1)

The red X blinks to show insufficient scene brightness. In this case, focus manually, or perform autofocus/focus -aid operation on an alternate subject at the same distance which is lighter in tone.

Low-contrast subject (lliust. 2), small or finely detailed subject (lliust. 3)

The red X lights up continuously. In this case, focus manually, or perform autofocus or focus -aid operation on an alternate sub- ject at the same distance which has more contrast ·or is larger.

Subject with no vertical lines (lliust. 4)

The red X glows continuously. In this case, turn the camera ver- tically and perform autofocus or focus -aid operation, or focus manually; alternatively, perform autofocus or focus -aid oper- ation using an alternate subject at the same distance which has vertical lines.

Subject with high reflectivity (lliust. 5), backlit subject (Illust. 6), or scene with both far and near subjects (Illust. 7)

In these cases, both red arrows or the red X light up contin- uously. If the red X appears, focus manually. If both red arrows are lit, use the matte portion of the screen to check focus. If your desired subject is out of focus, then focus manually. If it is in focus , take the shot.

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Contents Nikon Page Nomenclature Page Index Contents Foreword Basic Operation ClipReattach the lid Remove the battery Chamber lid from the finderLoad the batteries Into Findersbattery chamber Depress the shutter Release button @ halfway Move the power switchCheck battery power Mount the lens onto the camera Open the camera BackInstall the film Cartridge Insert the film leader in the takeup SpoolClose the camera Back Take up the film slackSet the Asaiiso film Speed Set the ·numberon Lens Slide the A·M switchrs5 On the AF·Nikkor lenstoASet the shutter speed Dial 72 at a Hold the camera steady Compose the picturePage Press the rewind button Take the pictureAdvance the film Turn the camera off Rewind the filmRemove the film Cartridge FOCUS------------------------------~ Page Focus AutofocusFocus lock Focus-Aid Operation Using the Focus Indicators Manual Focus Using the Matte Portion of the Focusing Screen Subject with no vertical lines lliust Special SituationsDark subject llIust Page Exposure Setting the Film Speed Setting the Aperture Setting the Shutter SpeedPage Exposure + , ~S Manual Exposure ControlRelationship Between Shutter Speed and Aperture Page Depth of Field Depth-of-field preview button Lens set at f/2.8 Suggested Applications for Exposure Compensation Exposure compensation dialMemory lock button Stop-Down Exposure Measurement For non·Allenses with automatic diaphragmsBackup Mechanical Release Lever Shutter Release ButtonFilm Advance Lever @ Frame Counter Q§Self-Timer Eyepiece Shutter Lever @Mirror Lockup Lever CD Viewfinder IlluminatorMultiple Exposure Lever Memo HolderFilm Plane Indicator @ Infrared Focusing IndexFlashphotography Accessory Shoe Flash Photography Nlkon F3AFISpeedlight Combination Chart Ready-LightAccessories Interchangeable ViewfindersCaUl/on Accessories Focusing Screen Selector Guide Electronic Flash Equipment 5peedlights 5B·12, 5B·16A and 5B·17Speedlights S8·11 III Motor Drive MD·4Data Back MF·14 Close-Up Equipment Page Duplication work and photomicrography Slide with continuousRubberEyecup Anti·Cold Battery Pack DB·2Cable Release AR·3 Eyepiece Correction LensesFilters Lens HoodsCompartment Cases Camera CasesNeckstraps Full-aperture metering How to Read the EV ChartWhatlsEV? Stop-down metering Chart EV Range of Camera30 ~ Tips on Camera Care That the stream of air is not con- centrated in one spot Tips on Battery USE About the Liquid Crystal Display LCD Specifications Page Specifications Page Nikon

F3AF specifications

The Nikon F3AF, introduced in 1983, is a landmark camera in the history of photography, notable for its pioneering autofocus capabilities. As one of Nikon's first professional autofocus cameras, the F3AF combines the robust features of the F3 series with advanced technology to offer photographers a powerful tool for capturing high-quality images.

One of the standout features of the F3AF is its autofocus system, which employs a sophisticated phase detection mechanism. This represents a significant leap forward from the manual focus cameras that dominated previous generations. The system can quickly and accurately lock onto subjects, making it easier for photographers to capture sharp images, particularly in dynamic or fast-paced situations.

The F3AF retains the iconic design and build quality of the F3, characterized by its rugged, weather-sealed construction that ensures durability in various shooting environments. The camera body features a comfortable grip and a solid metal chassis, appealing to professionals who require reliability and performance in the field.

Another key characteristic is its compatibility with a wide range of Nikkor lenses, including the autofocus Nikons. This flexibility allows photographers to choose the appropriate lens for their specific needs, whether they are shooting landscapes, portraits, or sports. The camera features a unique "Auto Focus" mode which works in tandem with specialized AF lenses to streamline the focusing process.

In terms of exposure modes, the F3AF offers automatic exposure through its TTL (Through The Lens) metering system. This capability allows for accurate exposure readings, helping photographers achieve optimal results in various lighting conditions. Additionally, the camera features multiple shooting modes, including manual, aperture priority, and shutter priority, accommodating the preferences of both novice and seasoned photographers.

Furthermore, the F3AF supports an array of accessories, including motor drives and special viewfinders, allowing photographers to enhance their shooting experience. The camera's electronic viewfinder provides a bright and clear display, giving users a precise view of their composition.

Despite being released decades ago, the Nikon F3AF remains a respected choice among film enthusiasts and collectors, representing a significant achievement in photographic technology. Its blend of innovative autofocus functionality, robust design, and versatile features make it an enduring symbol of Nikon's commitment to excellence in the world of photography.
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