Groundbreaking Nikon SLR from 1983 that introduced the world's first matrix metering system, underappreciated and excellent value.
The Nikon FA is a groundbreaking 35mm SLR from 1983 that introduced Automatic Multi-Pattern metering, the world's first matrix metering system that would become the standard for exposure evaluation in all modern cameras. This technology divided the scene into segments and compared the brightness pattern against a database to determine optimal exposure.
The camera offers four exposure modes — programmed auto, shutter-priority, aperture-priority, and manual — making it one of the most versatile Nikon manual focus bodies. The AMP metering system provides remarkably accurate exposure in challenging lighting conditions, a dramatic improvement over the centre-weighted metering that preceded it.
Build quality is professional-grade with a solid metal body that shares the robust construction of Nikon's high-end manual focus cameras. The viewfinder displays comprehensive exposure information, and the camera handles beautifully with AI and AI-S Nikkor lenses. A titanium shutter provides durability and accuracy across the speed range.
The Nikon FA is underappreciated on the used market despite its historically significant matrix metering innovation and excellent build quality. It offers a more capable shooting experience than the popular FE and FM models at similar or lower prices, making it one of the best-value manual focus Nikon SLRs available.