The Nikon F4 is a professional-grade 35mm film SLR camera introduced in 1988 and was Nikon’s first autofocus SLR for professionals. It brought several innovative features, bridging the gap between manual and fully electronic systems. Below are its specifications and the different models available.
Specifications
General
- Type: Professional 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR)
- Lens Mount: Nikon F-mount
- Focus Modes: Manual focus and autofocus (single and continuous servo AF)
- Exposure Modes:
- Programmed Auto (P)
- Shutter Priority (S)
- Aperture Priority (A)
- Manual (M)
Metering System
- Type: TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering
- Modes:
- Matrix Metering
- Center-Weighted Metering
- Spot Metering
Shutter
- Type: Electronically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter
- Speed Range: 1/8000 sec to 30 sec, plus bulb
- Flash Sync Speed: 1/250 sec
Viewfinder
- Coverage: 100%
- Magnification: 0.7x with a standard lens
- Interchangeable: Yes, various prisms available
Autofocus
- AF System: Nikon Multi-CAM 350 autofocus sensor
- AF Points: Single-point autofocus
Film Advance
- Motor Drive: Built-in motor drive
- Frame Rate:
- 4 fps (normal)
- 5.7 fps with MB-21 or MB-23 battery grip
Build
- Body Material: Magnesium alloy
- Weather Sealing: Extensive for professional use
Power
- Batteries: Uses 4x AA batteries (standard MB-20 battery pack) or 6x AA batteries (MB-21 and MB-23 packs)
Weight
- Body Only (with MB-20): Approx. 1.2 kg (2.65 lbs)
Models
- Nikon F4 (Base Model)
- Equipped with the MB-20 battery pack (compact configuration).
- Provides a frame rate of 4 fps.
- Ideal for those seeking a lighter and more portable F4 option.
- Nikon F4S
- Equipped with the MB-21 battery pack.
- Offers a higher frame rate of up to 5.7 fps.
- Heavier and bulkier due to the larger battery pack.
- Nikon F4E
- Equipped with the MB-23 high-capacity battery pack.
- Provides the same performance as the F4S (5.7 fps) but allows extended shooting times.
- Preferred by professionals needing maximum endurance.
Accessories
- Interchangeable Viewfinders:
- DE-2 (standard eye-level finder)
- DA-20 (action finder)
- DW-20 (waist-level finder)
- DW-21 (6x magnifying finder)
- Focusing Screens: Multiple options, such as grid, matte, and split-image focusing screens.
- Motor Drive Options: Integrated but varies with the battery packs (MB-20, MB-21, MB-23).
Notable Features
- First professional SLR to feature Matrix Metering with autofocus.
- Fully backward compatible with Nikon F-mount lenses, including non-AI, AI, AI-S, and AF lenses.
- Durable and reliable, with weather sealing for demanding conditions.