Nikon F4

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The Nikon F4 is a handsome Giugiaro-designed 35mm autofocus (AF) SLR camera first introduced in 1988 as the next generation in Nikon's highly successful line of F series professional cameras. It is one of Nikon's most versatile professional models, able to accept any of Nikon's MF or AF lenses from 1959 to present, including the two F3AF lens (in Autofocus mode).

The F4 was introduced as the prior professional model, the Nikon F3, (a manual focus camera) continued in production. The F4 introduced many Nikon owners to autofocus, and was the first professional Nikon to utilize a modern vertical-travel, metal-blade shutter. Though very complex, its extremely high-quality mechanical and electronic componentry and excellent weathersealing made for an extremely reliable and long-lived professional SLR camera.

Eventually Nikon had three F4 models that were distinguished by which integrated battery pack was attached. All F4 bodies are interchangeable with all battery packs:

model	battery pack	introduced	advance speed	batteries	features
F4	MB-20	1988	4.0 frame/s	4 AA	most compact
F4s	MB-21	1988	5.7 frame/s	6 AA	vertical shutter release
F4e	MB-23	1991	5.7 frame/s	6 AA or Ni-Cd (MN-20)	largest pack, vertical shutter release, 250 exposure Bulk Film Multi-Control Back MF-24 terminal

Nikon introduced its next flagship model, the F5, in 1996. All F4 models were discontinued soon after in May 1997 (Gandy). Today, prices of the F4 have depreciated greatly, mainly due to digital camera popularity and obsolescing by the F5 and F6.

[edit] References

• Nikon Corp (2005). "Products History." Retrieved May 1, 2005.
• Foo, Leo (2001). "Nikon F4 Series SLR models - Index Page." Retrieved May 1, 2005.
• Gandy, Stephen (August 08, 2004). "Nikon SLR Guide." Retrieved May 1, 2005.
• Wall, John N. "The Nikon F4 FAQ (Version 5.25)." Retrieved May 1, 2005.