Nikon F901992

History

Nikon unveiled the F90 in 1992 as the direct successor to the F-801s (N8008s). The principal engineering upgrade was 3D matrix metering: where the F-801s used a 2D luminance map, the F90 read distance data from D-type AF Nikkors and incorporated it into the exposure calculation, reducing the incidence of backlit errors. The body also introduced a function customization system - configurable parameters accessible through a dedicated button - that Nikon would carry forward across its professional lineup. In North America Nikon marketed the body as the N90, emphasizing its position as the nearest AF-compatible step below the F4 for working photographers. The F90 was relatively short-lived as a production model; by 1994 Nikon was already refining it into the F90X/N90s with improved AF predictive tracking and a 1/250s sync speed confirmed across all flash modes.

Why It Matters

The F90 mattered primarily for bringing 3D matrix metering - previously exclusive to the F4 at much higher cost - into a body serious amateurs could afford. At the time, matrix metering was Nikon's most visible differentiator against Canon's expanding EOS lineup; the 3D variant's distance-weighted corrections represented a genuine improvement in difficult lighting. The F90 also normalized deep function customization in mid-tier SLRs: users could adjust AF priority, bracketing behavior, and exposure offsets in ways that had previously required stepping up to the F4. For film photographers today the F90 is a capable entry point into the Nikon AF ecosystem at modest used prices, though many buyers upgrade directly to the F90X or F100 for better AF performance.

Lenses & Accessories

Nikon F mount. AI-S lenses meter in center-weighted and spot modes; 3D matrix metering requires D-type AF Nikkors. AF Nikkors with screw-drive autofocus natively; AF-S lenses mount but will not autofocus on this body. Recommended glass: AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D, 28mm f/2.8D, 85mm f/1.8D, 80-200mm f/2.8D. Accessories: MF-26 multi-control back (data imprinting, interval timer); SB-25 or SB-28 Speedlight for full TTL flash; no separate motor drive required (built-in motor, ~4.3 fps with fresh AA cells).

Sample Photographers / Notable Use

• Used by editorial and photojournalism students in the early-to-mid 1990s as an affordable alternative to the F4.
• Adopted by advanced amateurs upgrading from F-601 / N6006 bodies who needed 3D matrix metering but could not justify F4 pricing.

References

• Camera-Wiki: Nikon F90
• Wikipedia: Nikon N90