Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Nikon F60, 28 April 2006
First impressions
The camera looks so different from it's predecessor, that if it's not because of it's product placing and model number, one would be hard-pressed to think that it has anything to do with the F50. For starters, the 4-buttons operation is gone, superceded by a much more sensible 2-button toggle system. There is a large LCD panel at the top right that provides confirmation of comprehensive camera settings at a glance. The grip and the shutter release button seems to be a copy off the F5 design. And the left top panel sports a dial very similar to the EOS 500N, with various pictures of modes you can engage with the camera. Looks like Nikon is finally learning to emulate what actually works !! If you're a Canon user wishing to switch over to the Nikon camp, you'll find this camera a breeze to use.
Like the F50, the F60 has the useful but limited capacity built-in flash. And it is the first Nikon camera to have a AF illumination light built-in. Finally, it comes in two flavors - silver/champagne-coloured and black versions, a relief from the all-black crew typical of the Nikon family.
Flash
The built-in retractable flash at the top of the pentaprism has a limited guide number of 15 (ISO 100, meters). Although this is not very powerful, it offers convenience especially when you do not want to carry another flash around. It offers 28mm lens coverage, and it uses matrix balanced fill-flash technology to make your flash photography a piece of cake. The fill flash uses a built-in computer to provide automatic balanced exposure of the foreground subject and background scene, so that you can do away with the complex fill-in flash calculations that puts fear in all but the most seasoned flash-photographers. Other versatile flash modes include normal Sync, slow Sync, red-eye reduction and red-eye reduction with slow sync. Not bad for a built-in flash I must say !!
Exposure
The F60 has a staggering array of modes, of which I'm not even sure I know how to use. Of course, there are the usual shutter-priority, aperture-priority and full manual modes. For those new to photography, in shutter-priority mode, you set the shutter and the camera sets the aperture. In aperture-priority, you set the aperture and the camera sets the aperture. In full-manual, you set both aperture and shutter speed. And there is the program mode, which Nikon calls the all-automatic General-Purpose Program, where the camera chooses both the aperture and shutter for you.
In addition, there are five Vari-Program modes, mainly: Portrait, Landscape, Close-Up, Sport and Night Scene. Like I complained in my Nikon F90X review, these Vari-programs are really redundant. Finally, there is the Auto-Multi Program mode. Add them up, and you'll have a incredible total of 10 exposure modes !! You won't catch me straying from my trusty Aperture-priority and Manual mode though.
The F60 has a top shutter speed of 1/2000 sec. and flash sync speed up to 1/125 sec. For those who feels that a shutter speed of 1/2000 sec. is not enough, consider this: I've seldom been able to get 1/2000 sec. even with my f/2.8 lens and ISO 100 film. Such a shutter speed is definitely more than enough for daily use. Other creative exposure options include Flexible Program, AE lock, exposure compensation.
Autofocus
The F60's autofocus is reasonably fast and decisive. It is responsive and do not hunt around much, with the 28-70mm lens it was tested with. According to Nikon's specs, it operates in light as dim as EV minus 1 (ISO 100). The AF is activated when you semi-depress the shutter release button, and "the new Auto-Servo AF automatically chooses to lock focus or activate focus tracking according to the subject status, i.e. stationary or moving (including directional information)". What this means is that once the AF is activated by pressing the release button, it will focus the image and keep it in focus. If the image is stationary, it will lock the focus. If the subject is moving out of focus, the AF will automatically switch to focus tracking to keep the subject in focus until the picture is taken. Also, there is a electronic range-finder to allow precise manual focusing. The indicators in the viewfinder will show if the subject is in focus, when you switch over to manual focusing. It is a great aid to those with poor eyesight. The AF-assist illuminator light on the camera will automatically light up to give contrast to a dark subject, to assist the camera in auto-focusing.
Metering
One of Nikon's greatest strength must be the legendary Matrix metering. Matrix metering is a form of metering used in some Nikon cameras to provide a highly accurate meter reading even in complex lighting situation. Using various segments to compare the lighting condition in the scene, and complex algorithm to calculate the final "optimum" exposure in a split-second, the matrix meter is able to expose a tricky scene which will otherwise fool a less advanced meter. The 6-segment Matrix sensor ensures optimum exposure even in difficult lighting situations. Like all other new Nikon cameras, the F60 incorporates 3D Matrix Metering - which utilizes distance information from the lens for more accurate exposure determination- is conducted when camera is used with D-type AF Nikkor lenses. So, in addition to the various areas of brightness in the scene, the camera figures out which area actually contains the subject, based on the focused distance information, and give priority to that segment, so that the subject will come out correctly exposed.
The Nikon F60 also has Center-Weighted Metering (when Manual exposure mode is selected or AE lock is used), to allow the photographer greater exposure control. This mode bases the readings on the center of the image. Although I miss having a spot meter in this camera (to allow even more specific control), on second thoughts the target users of this camera probably won't be using the spot meter. Guess you can't have them all...
Other features
The F60 has built-in dioptre adjustment possible (from -1.5 to +1 dioptre). This will help those who sight problems to see the viewfinder a bit more clearly. It is a small but thoughtful feature, and is not available on my Nikon F90X. There is automatic film speed setting with DX-coded film (ISO 25-5000), automatic film loading, advance and rewind. The lack of manual film speed setting really is a sore omission. According to Nikon, "a zinc alloy front body diecast and aluminium film guide rails ensure toughness and reliability". The F60D model offers data imprinting thorough the camera data back.
Complains
The F60 is of course compatible with AF Nikkor lenses and Nikon system accessories for versatile SLR photography.However, like the F50, the F60 can only utilize lenses with CPUs, which means the AF lenses and AI-P lenses. So you cannot use manual focus lenses. This may seriously negate the advantages of buying a Nikon. Also, the camera is using the old 200 CCD autofocus detection module. However, it focuses faster than the older models like the F-801 etc. It is highly likely that there are new algorithms or improved coreless motors accounting for the improved performance.
Handling
The camera handles well, and is about the same size as the EOS 500N. However, it is heavier than the EOS 500N though. It feels small in my hands, but that may be because I'm using a Nikon F90X with MB-10 grip all the while. All the controls fall into place, but I have to bend my fingers a bit to get to some of them (I have long fingers). The grip is really a copy of the Nikon F5, albeit a bit smaller.
The viewfinder is bright and contrasty, and I can see the entire viewfinder, even when I'm wearing my glasses. A plus point is that the viewfinder has a generous rubber seal, which helps to prevent spectacled users from scratching their glasses. No complains about the dials and buttons, which clicks away very nicely. The 2 toggle buttons may be a bit small for those with thick index fingers though. And the dial system is a absolute joy to use, compared to the older F50 push-button system. Just click to the appropriate picture on the dial, and use the toggle button to set further options, and you're done. Fast access and no fuss. The pics are well-illustrated to communicate what functions they do.
Conclusions
Personally, I have a preference for the Nikon system. I feel that Nikon cameras feel more well-built and substantial, and are well-worth the difference in price. Moreover, I prefer the Nikon flash technology which allows me to do fill-in effortlessly and the fact that I can use almost any Nikon lens on my Nikon cameras, regardless of the age and series. And of course, there is the cheap and wide range of second-hand Nikon equipment available.
All that said, I could not recommend a AF Nikon to a beginner on a budget in good conscience (in the past). Although buying into the Nikon system is a definitely worthwhile investment, the Nikon F50 was not that good a camera compared to the Canon EOS 500N. The higher price and poor interface made it impossible to recommend a F50 over a EOS500N, especially to a beginner on budget !! Try telling them that Nikon has a good system and built, and they will show you that a Canon is cheaper and easier to use. Using a Nikon F50 is like using MS-DOS, compared to the "Windows" system on a EOS 500N.
The Nikon F60 is a brand new camera, with superior user interface and the same price as a F50. With the revamped operating controls and features, I can now heartily recommend the Nikon system, even to the beginning photographer on a budget.
Nikon F60 Specifications
Type of camera Integral-motor autofocus 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) with built-in TTL Speedlight
Picture format 24 x 36mm [standard 35mm (135) film format]
Lens mount Nikon F mount
Lenses AF Nikkor lenses, AI-P-type Nikkor lens (IX-Nikkors cannot be used)
Focus modes Autofocus (AF) or Manual (M)
Autofocus Auto-Servo AF - automatically chooses Single-Servo AF or Continuous-Servo AF operation according to the subject status, i.e. stationary or moving (including directional information)
Note: Continuous-Servo AF is automatically selected when exposure mode is set to Sport mode
Autofocus detection system TTL phase detection system using Nikon Advanced AM200 autofocus module; AF-Assist Illuminator provided
Autofocus detection range Approx. EV -1 to 19 (at ISO 100)
Autofocus lock Focus is locked when shutter release button is lightly pressed and stationary subject is in focus in Auto-Servo AF
Focus tracking Automatically activated with a moving subject
Exposure modes General-Purpose Program, Auto-Multi Program (Flexible Program possible), S: Shutter-Priority Auto, A: Aperture-Priority Auto, M: Manual, and five Vari-Program modes ( Portrait, Landscape, Close-Up, Sport, Night Scene)
Programmed Auto exposure control Both shutter speed and aperture are set for the following modes
Shutter-Priority Auto exposure control Aperture automatically selected to match manually set shutter speed in S mode
Aperture-Priority Auto exposure control Shutter speed automatically selected to match manually set aperture in A mode
Manual exposure control Both aperture and shutter speed are set manually in M mode
Shutter speed/aperture adjustment Rotating the Command Dial changes shutter speed in S and M mode or aperture value in A mode in 1/2 EV steps (To change aperture value in M mode, rotate the Command Dial while pressing the aperture button)
Auto exposure lock Available by pressing the AE-L button while the exposure meter is on
Exposure compensation With exposure compensation button; ±3 EV range, in 1/2 EV steps (in P, S, A and M mode)
Exposure metering 3D Matrix: with D-type AF Nikkor; Six-segment Matrix: with non-D-type AF Nikkor, AI-P Nikkor; Centre-Weighted: in Manual exposure mode or with Auto Exposure Lock
Exposure metering range EV 1 to 20 at ISO 100, 50mm f/1.4 lens
Exposure meter switch Activated by turning on power, lightly pressing shutter release button; stays on for 5 sec. after removing finger from button, or 2 sec. after releasing shutter
Shutter Electronically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter
Shutter release Electromagnetic
Shutter speeds In General-Purpose Program, P, A, Portrait, Landscape, Close-Up, Sport, Night Scene mode: 30 to 1/2000 sec. automatically set. In S, M mode: 30 to 1/2000 sec., Long Time Exposure (only be selected in M mode)
Viewfinder Fixed-eyelevel pentaprism high-eyepoint type; approx. 0.69X to 0.74X magnification with 50mm lens set at infinity; approx. 90% frame coverage
Dioptre adjustment -1.5 to +1.0 dioptre
Eyepoint Approx. 17mm
Focusing screen Fixed Nikon Clear Matte Screen II with central focus brackets for autofocus operation
Viewfinder illuminator Automatically activates when exposure meter is on
Film speed range ISO 25 to 5000
Film speed setting Automatically set to ISO speed of DX-coded film used
Film loading Film automatically advances to first frame when camera back is closed
Frame counter Digital display in LCD panel; additive type; counts back while film is being rewound
Film advance Film automatically advances one frame when shutter is released; in Sport mode, shots are taken as long as shutter release button is depressed; shooting speed - approx. 1 fps
Film rewind Film automatically starts to rewind at the end of the film roll; rewind speed: approx. 17 sec. with 36-exposure film or approx. 14 sec. with 24-exposure film; mid-roll rewind possible
Self-timer Electronically controlled; timer duration - 10 sec. (cancellable)
Reflex mirror Automatic, instant-return type
Accessory shoe Standard ISO-type with hot-shoe contact, ready-light contact, TTL flash contact, monitor contact; mount receptacle for Posi-Mount system provided
Built-in TTL Speedlight Activated by pressing Speedlight lock-release button; guide number: 15 (at ISO 100, m); angle of coverage: 28mm lens or longer lens with some limitations; approx. 4 sec. recycling time
Flash synchronisation speed 1/125 sec. or slower
Automatic Balanced Fill-Flash Possible with built-in TTL Speedlight or Nikon dedicated Speedlights such as Nikon SB-28, SB-27, SB-23, SB-22s, and SB-16B; Matrix Balanced Fill-Flash in Auto exposure modes; Centre-Weighted Fill-Flash in Manual exposure mode
Standard TTL flash Activated when using a non-CPU lens
Flash ready-light When Speedlight is off, blinks when using flash is recommended; when Speedlight is on, lights up when built-in Speedlight or Nikon dedicated Speedlight is ready to fire; blinks after shooting to warn of insufficient light for correct exposure
Power source Two CR123A or DL123A-type lithium batteries
Number of 36-exposure film rolls per fresh battery (using AF Zoom-Nikkor 35-80mm f/4-5.6D)*
At 20°C At -10°C
Without flash Approx. 65 Approx. 38
With flash for half of all exposures Approx. 16 Approx. 10
*After lightly pressing the shutter release button for 5 sec., autofocus operation covers the full range from infinity to the closest distance and back to infinity before each shot. With a shutter speed of 1/125 sec. or faster. After the exposure meter automatically turns off (2 sec., or 5 sec. with flash), the same operation follows for the next shot.
Body finish Silver and black available
Camera back Hinged back with film cartridge confirmation window; unchangeable
Dimensions (W x H x D) Approx. 148.5 x 96 x 69mm (F60), 148.5 x 96 x 70mm (F60D)
Weight (body only) Approx. 575g (F60), 585g (F60D)
Date/time imprint function (For F60D only) Display mode: Year/Month/Day, Day/Hour/Minute, No Imprint, Month/Day/Year and Day/Month/Year; built-in clock: 24-hour type with timing accuracy within ±90 seconds a month; leap year adjustment until 2019
Useable film ISO 32 to 3200 DX-coded film
Power source: One 3V lithium battery (CR2025 type)
Battery life Approx. 3 years (May vary depending on extent of imprint use, film speed in use, etc.)
All specifications apply when fresh CR123A-type batteries are used at normal temperature (20°C).
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
Nice camera with a couple of serious drawbacks, 30 Sep 2006
This is a pretty nice camera, and I wish I could rate it higher. However, it has a couple of serious drawbacks...
Firstly, no remote shutter activation facility whatsoever.
Secondly, no depth-of-field preview. This is an important aspect of composition, and a serious drawback if you're trying to learn photography.
As this camera was otherwise great value and well-featured for its time (late 1990s), it smacks of Nikon protecting sales of their more expensive models.
These limitations aside, this is a good camera, and seems to be available *very* cheaply secondhand. However, its successor (the F65) supposedly includes both an infrared shutter release (although you have to buy the remote separately) and depth-of-field preview. I'd recommend you check that out first; the F60 is still a nice little camera though.
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