The N6006 has been a learning experience. I previously shot with an FM2, so Program modes and auto-focus were new, and the main attraction. As it turned out, the AF on this camera hunts a lot and so is not always faster than manually focusing on a camera with a split-image focusing screen. Eventually, the AF went out of adjustment, and it's not worth it to me to repair it. As far as modes go, the Program mode has its attractions, but I spent most time in aperture priority. In the end, this camera taught me that an FE2 with a motor drive was all I wanted in a film camera, and that the FM2n was a great camera. I also learned that plastic can be very tough: the N6006 is a durable camera.. Lots to like -- see the strengths -- but I don't think I'd buy another AF film camera; next will be digital.
Strengths:
Easy and intuitive layout of controls
Durable
Takes mechanical shutter release
Will operate in aperture priority with non-AF AI and AIS lenses
Bracketing function is great
Nice feel and finish
Built-in flash
Weaknesses:
Slow AF
Expensive, somewhat unusual battery
Non-interchangeable focusing screens -- manual focus with the matte screen isn't practical
No auto shut-off -- if you forget to turn the camera off and put it up for a week, your battery will die.
Similar Products Used:
N80; not as similar products include FM2n, FE2, F3, Canon AE-1, several rangefinders, Mamiya TLR
I had this 6006 for about 10 yrs and had it services only once when the back film loading door lock broken. The plastic door latch can be easily broken when even with a light bump. It costed $115 to have it fixed through mail-in service at Nikon. Overall this is a great camera. Comparing with my new Nikon digital camera, 6006 has great picture quality. With this camera, I finished my photography 101 class with grade "A" (No others has a Nikon in the class)
Hot package, up to the photographer for the performance. No problems shooting anything with it. Recognizing limitations of both the camera and the user (me), haven't found anything in the price range that compares. When the user selectable "program" options are a limiting factor (time), manual is still an option and one that is familiar to some of us. If weak, you can automate everything but the focus and still perform. That should take care of the AF complaints. Don't understand the noise complaints; the camera doesn't record them. Auto-bracket is definable and predictable. Two FPS is plenty if you plan your shots. Appropriately priced digital provides more FPS, depending on memory speed, as does quality video if you need more FPS than 4. I'm not gathering evidence.
Strengths:
Affordable, typical Nikon excellence in product, as flexible as the user. Take your price on lenses. If you can make the unit dance, tell me your gripe.
Weaknesses:
It's EOL'd. Attractive to the same thief who picked and chose through my firearms collection. Still makes me buy 35mm film.
Similar Products Used:
Argus C3
Baldessamat
Zeiss-Ikon
Canon
APS and digital Nikon
JVC, Canon and other Mini DV cams
Customer Service:
Only required once on the APS camera battery door. Told it was common, repair was cheap.
I've had this camera now for 11 years and it's still going strong. I learned with it, and now it still has the features to keep me happy. Solid construction (except the door hinge thing), I've dropped mine several times over the years and it's held up well through rain, skiing, and lots of travel. Gripes: the AF is slow and it's noisy. But especially at today's used prices, it's a great bargain, and head and shoulders above an N65 in terms of features and construction quality. I keep debating upgrading to the F90s, but can't quite justify the cost. Maybe when the next model comes out...
Strengths:
Great value!
Durability - solid construction, good feel
Great feature set
compatible w/ most everything Nikon makes
Built-in flash great for fill and when you don't have a speedlight.
Weaknesses:
back door hinge doesn't withstand the (unintentional)repeated drop test (Nikon replaced quickly for $10)
Loud compared to today's cameras
AF slow - hunts w/ long zooms
Depth of Field preview would have been nice
Customer Service:
Good - relatively quick turnaround (2 weeks) and cheap service (5 years ago).
Rating Reviewed by: Chris Knudson(Unregistered User)
(Expert)
Review Date September 8, 2002
Overall Rating 4 of 5
Value Rating 5 of 5
Used product for More than 1 year
Visitors rate this review 5.00 of 5,
1 votes
Review 5 of 72
Price Paid:
$300.00
from Camera Store
Summary:
The N6006 is an excelent choice for an inexpensive, early autofocus camera. I got mine in the mid 1990's and have shot tons of great pictures with it.
Strengths:
This is a great camer for the money. It is very easy to use in any of the three full-auto program modes, and it has the flexability shoot easily in manual mode. Unlike others who have reviewed this camera, I found that switching between program and manual modes to be quick and easy. I also found the battery life to be good and have not had any difficulty finding a battery at the corner drug store.
Weaknesses:
The camera is a little slow and very noisy. I wouldn't recommend it for fast shooting or when you can't afford to miss the shot. It is also a plastic body Nikon, and although I have never experienced this myself, I have heard lots of stories about the film door release breaking. Just treat it with care, and it should last a very long time.
Similar Products Used:
Nikon N4004, Nikon N8008
Customer Service:
This has been a great camera, and I've never had to have it serviced.
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