Nikon F65 with 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 G lens: The ally of amateur photographers
Launched in 2000, the Nikon F65 is an entry-level film SLR designed to make photography accessible while delivering powerful features. Lightweight and compact, it was designed to compete with the Canon EOS 300 and is aimed at photographers looking to progress their photography. While aimed at beginners, the F65 doesn’t sacrifice quality or performance, with a range of automatic and manual options that allow for progressive creative mastery.
Main features
📸 Type : 35mm film reflex, autofocus
🎞️ Film format : 35mm (standard)
📐 Dimensions : 143.5 × 92 × 65.5 mm – compact and lightweight
🔋 Power supply : 2 CR2 batteries – long battery life
📷 Lens included : Nikkor 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 G
💨 Shutter speed : 30s to 1/2000s
🔆 Built-in flash : Guide number 12, compatible with external flashes
🔍 Viewfinder : 89% coverage with diopter correction
🤖 Autofocus modes : 5 points with subject tracking
🖲️ Mount : Nikon F, compatible with AF and AI lenses
💾 Exposure modes : Automatic, Scene Programs (portrait, landscape, sport, etc.), Shutter priority, Aperture priority, Manual
Technical specifications
The Nikon F65 features a metal curtain shutter that allows for speeds from 30 seconds to 1/2000 s, with a Bulb mode for long exposures. Its 5-point autofocus, coupled with six-zone matrix light metering , ensures optimal exposure, even in complex lighting conditions. The viewfinder, covering 89% of the field, is equipped with a dioptric corrector for increased visual comfort.
Its included 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 G lens is ideal for a variety of situations, from portraits to landscapes. With a maximum aperture of f/3.5, it delivers great low-light performance.
Benefits and Uses
The Nikon F65 is the perfect camera for those looking to experiment with different shooting modes. In automatic mode, it handles all the technical decisions, leaving you to focus on framing and creativity. However, for more experienced photographers or those looking to learn, PSAM (Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual) modes give you greater control. The built-in flash automatically adjusts power for perfectly balanced shots, while the hot shoe allows you to add an external flash if needed.
With its 5-point dynamic autofocus , this camera ensures sharp images, even when the subject is moving. In addition, multiple exposure and exposure bracketing add artistic flexibility to your shots.
Contexts of use
The Nikon F65 is the ideal camera for capturing natural portraits , thanks to its precise autofocus and dedicated scene programs. In landscape mode, it excels at rendering the details of the scene thanks to its sophisticated light metering. The sports mode allows you to capture fast movements, perfect for photographing sporting events or action moments. With its macro mode , it also allows you to capture close-up details, making your nature or object shots even more impressive.
Conclusion
The Nikon F65 is a great entry point into the world of film photography. With automatic and manual modes, it's suitable for all skill levels, and the addition of the versatile 28-80mm lens makes it a complete, ready-to-use package. Compact, lightweight, and powerful, this camera lets you discover or rediscover film photography without compromise. At a very affordable price, it represents unbeatable value for money for serious enthusiasts.
