kyle_declerck1

<p>Thank you all! I really like the idea of two bodies. I think that would be a wise and logical choice given where I'll be working. I'm thinking an F2 and FM will be perfect.<br> For the most part I've always been working with Leica M cameras, so never any optics longer than 135mm. Having to result primarily to borrowing and renting long Nikon lenses and varying bodies when I've needed them. So I'm very excited to get a couple of these workhorses to start using telephoto lenses.<br> <br />I figure I should probably start another thread, but as it were, I'm also looking to buy a 300mm to use with this F2 and FM. I'm looking at the Nikkor 300mm f/4 ED-IF AF and the 300mm f/4.5 ED-IF AI-s. Obviously the auto focus is not of importance. From what I can find online reviewing these lenses, it seems both are decent. Those of you that have used them, how would you say they compare optically? Really, I'm looking for the highest quality glass under $500.<br> Thank you all again for your advice and the invaluable information.</p> <p> </p>

<p>Thank you all for your advice! I'm taking all suggestions into consideration. I'd say I'm probably leaning towards an F2 with a cla/overhaul (if need be) at this point. Though, what are your thoughts on the F2 finder and focusing screens compared to some of the other cameras suggested? For example, if I'm shooting during a grey overcast day in the woods will that F2 finder be bright enough for manual focusing of long lenses? Currently I'm using optics varying between f/2.8 and f/4.</p> <p>Thank you all again!</p> <p>And, Charlie Lowe, I greatly appreciate the offer. If I end up going the F2 route I would love to speak more about your F2A.</p>

<p>Thank you Sandy! The F2's definitely look like a great choice. Do you by chance have a repair person you would recommend for an F2 CLA? </p>

<p>Hello all,<br> I'm in need of a film SLR for some remote wildlife photography. For work, I'm typically in the field for 4-6 weeks at a time. A lot of my work lately has been in the Northern Rockies and Northern Pacific coast of British Columbia and up into Alaska. So rather remote locations that are demanding on gear. I'm going be using long lenses, 300-600mm, for the most part all ED AI glass, nothing super new. I typically prefer cameras that are mechanical as they have always been most reliable given the conditions I put them through. But I also realize Nikon makes a pretty damn durable camera, especially their film cameras so I'm not necessarily opposed to an electronic shutter and auto focus.<br> What I've been looking at so far is the Nikon F2/F2as, F3, F4/F5 and the F100. I'm completely open to any and all suggestions based on personal experience. I use long lenses with manual focus quite often, so auto focus is not a huge deal. I'm much more interested in having a very durable reliable body with a good light meter and bright clear finder. I can't stress durability and reliability enough.</p> <p>Thank you all greatly for your time and input, it's very much appreciated!</p> <p>- Kyle<br> </p>