Nikon FE
There’s something opportune about pairing a classic 35mm SLR with a weekend of open moorland and rugged coastline. The Nikon FE, fitted with the Series E 50mm f1.8 and loaded with DragonFilm No. I, proved to be a rewarding, uncomplicated companion while exploring Dartmoor’s vast landscapes and the shifting light of the Falmouth coast.
Released in the 1970s, the Nikon FE arrived during a period when Nikon was transitioning from fully mechanical cameras to electronically assisted ones, offering photographers aperture-priority auto exposure while retaining full manual control. The FE’s electronically controlled shutter (with a mechanical fallback at 1/90s) was forward thinking for its time, yet it never sacrificed the solid, dependable feel Nikon was known for.
In use, the FE remained impressively intuitive. The match needle style meter display in the viewfinder was clear and easy to read, making exposure decisions quick and confident. During the weekend of shooting, the camera felt reliable and responsive. Its compact, lightweight body made it easy to carry for long walks, never feeling like a burden even with hours of shooting. Focusing and operation were straightforward throughout. The FE’s bright viewfinder complimented the picture taking process.
Mounted on the FE was Nikon’s Series E 50mm f1.8, a lens that often flies under the radar but deserves far more appreciation. Originally introduced as a more affordable alternative to Nikon’s Nikkor branded lenses, the Series E line still delivers excellent optical performance in a lighter, more compact package. Often described as “normal,” the 50mm focal length closely matches the natural field of view of the human eye, making it ideal for capturing everyday scenes.
DragonFilm No. I adds an interesting modern twist to this classic setup. DragonFilm NO. I is a rerolled film, it is a highly distinctive and has a fine grain. Rated ISO 100, this black and white cinematic film is known for producing a strong and distinctive images. The character of rerolled film often brings subtle unpredictability but here it felt dependable and well suited to the moorland and coastal areas.
The Nikon FE paired with the Series E 50mm f1.8 and DragonFilm No. I is a combination that highlights everything people love about shooting film: simplicity, tactility, and intentionality. Compact, lightweight and easy to operate, this setup never got in the way of the experience whilst wandering across Dartmoor or tracing the edges of the Cornish coast.
For photographers looking for a classic camera that balances automation with control, a versatile lens that excels in almost any situation, and a film stock with a bit of character, this trio makes for a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
