Nikon F3AF instruction manual Film Advance Lever @, Frame Counter Q§

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Film Advance Lever @)

The film advance lever is coaxial with the shutter release button

@and is specially contoured to fit the thumb. To advance the film, wind the lever to the right all the way until it stops. It auto- matically returns to the standoff position the moment you take your thumb off it. One complete stroke or a series of shorter ones advances the film by a single frame and simultaneously cocks the shutter.

At the end of the film roll , the lever stops working . Do not attempt to wind the lever further; just rewind the film .

Note: If the lever becomes difficult to operate at the beginning of the roll, this means that the film is not winding onto the takeup spool @prop- erly. In this case, rewind the film immediately and load the film again.

Frame Counter Q§)

To keep track of the number of exposed frames, the frame counter is graduated from two frames below 0 up to 40. Blue numerals appear every 5 frames (0, 5, 10, etc.), with dots in between. White marks at 12, 20, 24, and 36 indicate the number of frames available on most film cartridges. When making blank shots with the shutter speed dial @ set to "A," the shutter will fire at 1/80 sec. until the frame counter reaches the first frame. In addition, the LCD shows 80 in the finder. Or, if you set the dial manually between 1/125 and 1/2000 sec., the shutter will still fire at 1/80 sec. In the finder, an M 80 is displayed. However, if the speed is manually set to 1/80 sec. (X) or below, the shutter will fire at the speed set with the LCD indicating that speed. Therefore, to speed up film loading, set the dial to A or to 1/125 sec. or above.

When the camera back @ is opened, the frame counter auto- matically resets to two frames below zero.

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Contents Nikon Page Nomenclature Page Index Contents Foreword Clip Basic OperationLoad the batteries Into Findersbattery chamber Remove the battery Chamber lid from the finderReattach the lid Check battery power Move the power switchDepress the shutter Release button @ halfway Open the camera Back Mount the lens onto the cameraInsert the film leader in the takeup Spool Install the film CartridgeTake up the film slack Close the camera BackSet the Asaiiso film Speed Set the shutter speed Dial 72 at a Slide the A·M switchrs5 On the AF·Nikkor lenstoASet the ·numberon Lens Compose the picture Hold the camera steadyPage Advance the film Take the picturePress the rewind button Remove the film Cartridge Rewind the filmTurn the camera off FOCUS------------------------------~ Page Autofocus FocusFocus lock Focus-Aid Operation Using the Focus Indicators Manual Focus Using the Matte Portion of the Focusing Screen Dark subject llIust Special SituationsSubject with no vertical lines lliust Page Exposure Setting the Film Speed Setting the Shutter Speed Setting the AperturePage Exposure Manual Exposure Control + , ~SRelationship Between Shutter Speed and Aperture Page Depth of Field Depth-of-field preview button Lens set at f/2.8 Exposure compensation dial Suggested Applications for Exposure CompensationMemory lock button For non·Allenses with automatic diaphragms Stop-Down Exposure MeasurementShutter Release Button Backup Mechanical Release LeverFrame Counter Q§ Film Advance Lever @Eyepiece Shutter Lever @ Self-TimerViewfinder Illuminator Mirror Lockup Lever CDMemo Holder Multiple Exposure LeverInfrared Focusing Index Film Plane Indicator @Flashphotography Accessory Shoe Flash Photography Ready-Light Nlkon F3AFISpeedlight Combination ChartInterchangeable Viewfinders AccessoriesCaUl/on Accessories Focusing Screen Selector Guide 5peedlights 5B·12, 5B·16A and 5B·17 Electronic Flash EquipmentSpeedlights S8·11 Motor Drive MD·4 IIIData Back MF·14 Close-Up Equipment Page Slide with continuous Duplication work and photomicrographyEyepiece Correction Lenses Anti·Cold Battery Pack DB·2Cable Release AR·3 RubberEyecupLens Hoods FiltersNeckstraps Camera CasesCompartment Cases WhatlsEV? How to Read the EV ChartFull-aperture metering Stop-down metering EV Range of Camera Chart30 ~ 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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