Nikon Camera Collection

Why Nikon? Because it is the first camera I bought, and once I began buying the lenses for that first body, I was unknowingly buying into a "system".  As it happens, I like the Nikon system just fine. I would have liked the Canon system as well I am sure if the rebate that was being offered when I purchased my Nikon D300 (bottom left) had been offered on Canon.  

Some of the above cameras were gifts, while others were purchased after much searching.  Each one has its own memories and I have captured some great images will all.  All are fully operational and three of them have seen overhauls to ensure they continue to operate for years to come. Eight are film with two digital cameras thrown in. 

The second from top (left) is covered by the lens, but it is a Nikon EM.  It was a gift from a friend along with a wonderful 50mm lens.  This is the camera his late wife and he used to capture their family memories. It is the camera that traveled with them, in the back seat of a car, airplane and train. Many argue the EM is not a "real" camera because it is an aperture priority only camera. But the fact is that it is a light, reliable camera that is capable of capturing perfect images.  I will always cherish it.

The Nikon D300 (bottom left) was my first "serious" camera and it introduced me to the wonders of photography.  It still works flawlessly and I enjoy pulling it out for old times sake. The D800 was the upgrade I made for the 36mp sensor and it taught me that the 12mp sensor on the D300 was forgiving a great deal of mistakes.  The D800 also taught me that the rapid fire of thousands of images was not the best way to get the most out of photography.  Going out and planning the shot, contemplating the final image, and adjusting the composition resulted in fewer images of greater enjoyment.

The Nikon F2 (top right) was purchased with an overhaul in mind. I wanted to have a properly CLA camera and the F2 was the first attempt. The camera was working but now it is a dream to shoot. 

The Nikon F (top left) was the camera that I always thought was ugly.  That massive forehead was something that I could not get over.  I then saw the images it took of the Vietnam war and I began to understand it.  It has a place in history as the first SLR that the professional market bought into.  Through this historical perspective, I began to love its looks.  I found a great one for sale and while I paid a pretty penny for it, it is in perfect working order!

Each of these represents memories to me and to their previous owners.  I treat them well and kept them fed with film.  They are protected from the elements when not in use, but they are used often.