lowdog420's Full Review: Nikon N80 QD Body Only 35mm Film Camera
If it wasn't enough that Nikon makes what some to consider one of the best Pro cameras on the market(F100), now with the N80 they also have a likely runner for the best amateur camera.
The N80 if similar to a shrunk F100 which was a very off the typical mark design for Nikon. Unlike Nikon's previous amateur model, the N70, the N80's controls are a lot easier to use and configure to you specific needs. The controls are more similar to those of the F100, all are clearly marked,a back rocker dial to control the auto focus area, and all exposure modes of the camera are controlled by a easy to use two-dial system.
Unlike the F100 the N80 is far more price efficient, costing under $500, and far more compact. The N80 is so small in fact that people with big hands may have their fingers overlap off of the normal hand spot. However a new battery pack can be purchase allowing the use of 4 AA batteries and also adding a little more grip space. These compact features can make it a great camera for those who take their photography seriously, but don't want to carry a large heavy camera.
The autoloading on the N80 is a breeze, you can choose manual settings, or auto DX. Also you can control the camera's custom functions, auto or manual triggered rewind,as well as slower quiet speed rewind.
The shutter and aperture-priority are fairly straight forward as well. All it takes is a simple thumb movement, and your set to go. You can allow the camera to automatically set an f-stop for you, or you can set one manually. If you exceed the range of shutter speeds, then the display very clearly reads either HI or LO. Metered manual work pretty much how you would expect it to work, also taking just a couple of seconds to get you up and running.
As for the picture I've gotten with the N80, nearly perfect. I'm so pleased with how it has been working out for me, and even more pleased with how easy it is to use. I highly recommend this camera to any amateur photographer who is interested in purchasing quite possibly their last camera.
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