The FM3A inherits many of the FM2's features, including a durable die-cast metal body construction; Center-Weighted TTL (Through-the-Lens) full-aperture exposure metering with exposure compensation of -2 to +2 EV; and a top shutter speed of 1/4000 second, plus bulb.
New also is the FM3A camera's TTL flash control with a maximum sync speed of 1/250 second, DX-coded film speed settings and new bright view focusing screens. Using the optional MD-12 Motor Drive, film advance at 3.2 frames per second is possible.
The FM3A is ideal for photographers seeking the quality and innovation of Nikon 35mm cameras with the freedom of personal control. The FM3A camera's hybrid shutter control system enables full mechanical shutter range plus electronic shutter speed range of operation. For mechanical operation the shutter's control does not require battery power, allowing users to shoot in all types of conditions, including extremely cold weather, without having to worry about battery failure. Using batteries, photographers can take advantage of the camera's built-in exposure meter. The battery power check is displayed for 16 seconds with the meter-on timer.
Under battery power the FM3A offers Aperture-Priority Auto Exposure. With Aperture-Priority Auto Exposure control, the user chooses the desired aperture, while the FM3A automatically selects the appropriate shutter speed.
This mode is ideal for many picture taking conditions, such as when action is happening too fast for the photographer to respond with manual operation, for shooting under conditions that may require exposure compensation, such as close-ups with extension tubes or Micro Nikkor optics, and when subjects are quickly moving from bright to dark areas. Additionally, during candid photography, changes in scene brightness are common, and automatic adjustment to exposure can be a true benefit. The FM3A's 60/40 center-weighted meter, an original Nikon innovation, handles a wide range of lighting with ease. In the hands of an experienced photographer, photographic excellence is achievable.
The FM3A's top shutter speed of 1/4000 second provides opportunities for critical action-stopping photos. It also expands exposure control, which is particularly useful when shooting with high-speed film. Shutter speed can be manually selected from one second to 1/4000 second. In A mode (Aperture-Priority Auto Exposure), shutter speed is controlled from eight seconds to 1/4000 second.
The FM3A's fast TTL flash sync, with fill-flash capability, provides a broad range of control options for shooting in virtually all ambient light conditions. When used with Nikon TTL Speedlights, such as the new SB-50DX(TM) or SB-28, the FM3A's TTL sensor monitors both ambient and flash illumination.
When the total light accumulated is right for the correct exposure, the flash automatically turns off. For fill effects, the FM3A includes a special button, which when pressed will automatically reduce the flash output by approximately one (1) f/stop. The result is a pleasing fill light that is very effective for backlighted subjects, and when ambient lighting is causing harsh shadows on the subject. This feature affords control that has not been available for those who prefer to use mechanical manual cameras.
The FM3A is designed for ruggedness and durability with a die-cast camera body made of copper silumin aluminum, a metal alloy that significantly reduces the effects of extreme temperature and humidity. While remarkably light, the alloy is rigid and resistant to metal fatigue and corrosion. With this solid construction, the FM3A is designed to perform superbly in a wide variety of challenging conditions.
Features
- New Hybrid Shutter Control System
- Classic 60/40 Center Weighted metering
- Rugged copper, silumin aluminum alloy construction chassis and metal outer body
- TTL Flash Metering System: Super fast 1/4,000 sec. to 1 sec. plus Bulb
- DX and Manual ISO
Product Description:
The Nikon FM3A 35mm SLR Camera is aimed toward the creative individual who seeks independent control alongside creativity. Full automation is frowned upon. The FM3A offers the best features of a 35mm SLR but is, fundamentally, a semi-automatic or manually operated camera so you're in full control. Rugged copper, silumin aluminum alloy construction chassis and metal outer body with Chrome finish Split-image microprism type (Type K3) focusing screen provides (other screens optional) Exposure Modes - Aperture-Priority Auto; Manual Built-in ISO-type hot-shoe for optional external electronic-flash Manual winding Double-exposure capable Uses one CR2 or two LR44 batteries (not included) Uses 35mm film