Nikon EM

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Please me information you have on the Nikon EM camera..

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The Nikon EM is a compact, lightweight 35mm film SLR camera that Nikon introduced in 1979 as an entry-level model aimed at beginner photographers. It was part of Nikon’s effort to reach a broader market by creating a simpler and more affordable camera compared to their professional models. Here’s an overview of the Nikon EM’s key features and characteristics:

Key Features

  1. Build and Design:
    • Made with a durable polycarbonate body over a metal chassis.
    • Compact and lightweight for a Nikon SLR of the time, weighing approximately 460 grams.
  2. Lens Compatibility:
    • Uses the Nikon F-mount, making it compatible with a wide range of Nikon lenses, including AI (Automatic Indexing) and AI-S lenses.
    • The EM was often paired with Nikon’s Series E lenses, which were lighter and more affordable.
  3. Metering and Exposure:
    • Offers aperture-priority auto-exposure mode, which automatically adjusts the shutter speed based on the selected aperture.
    • The metering system uses a center-weighted pattern, with a match-needle display in the viewfinder for exposure feedback.
    • Manual exposure control is not available, although exposure compensation (+2 EV, -2 EV) can be used.
  4. Shutter:
    • Electronically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter.
    • Shutter speeds range from 1 second to 1/1000 of a second, plus Bulb mode.
  5. Flash:
    • Hot shoe for external flashes, including Nikon Speedlights like the SB-E, which was designed to complement the EM.
    • Flash sync speed of 1/90 sec.
  6. Viewfinder:
    • Bright viewfinder with 92% coverage and a fixed pentaprism.
    • Features a match-needle system and visible aperture settings in the viewfinder.
  7. Power:
    • Requires two SR44 or LR44 button batteries for operation. Without batteries, the shutter defaults to a mechanical 1/90 sec.
  8. Other Features:
    • No built-in motor drive, but it’s compatible with the MD-E motor drive, which provides continuous shooting at 2 frames per second.

Target Audience

The Nikon EM was marketed as a beginner-friendly camera, often advertised as “The Nikon for Women” due to its simplicity, light weight, and smaller form factor. While this marketing was gendered, the camera’s intuitive controls and reliability made it popular among various users.

Limitations

  • Lack of full manual mode might be a drawback for advanced users.
  • Limited to aperture-priority and Bulb mode, making it less versatile compared to professional models like the Nikon FM or FE.

Legacy

Despite its simplicity, the Nikon EM gained a loyal following for its compact size, reliability, and compatibility with Nikon’s legendary lenses. It’s still a popular choice among film photography enthusiasts today, especially those looking for an affordable and lightweight Nikon SLR.

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