Mac Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.

Congratulations on you Df purchase, I love my Df.
I don't know what problems you are having, but are you aware of the Metering Coupling Lever for use with non-AI lenses?
There is a Df Users group on Facebook.

GPS Phil Loc: Dayton Ohio

I have had mine since they came out and I rarely shoot in a public environment without someone asking about it. I'm pushing 78 and have more than a few friendships that started because of that camera. I originally purchased it because I thought it was a collectors item, and thought I would use it once in awhile for street photography. I was wrong, it fast became my main camera and goes everywhere with me. I do admit that it is "cute", maybe that's why it's always sitting around where I can see it!

BebuLamar

You do not lose matrix metering with pre AI lens but it's a bit cumbersome in any metering pattern. First you have to set the focal length and maximum aperture into the camera and register it as a Non AI lens. Then in M mode you meter by adjusting the shutter speed and the aperture using the sub command dial. One you have the meter centered you have to set the aperture ring on the lens to the same aperture displayed in the viewfinder. In A mode you select an aperture you want to use then set in on the aperture ring and also using the sub command dial to set the same aperture in the display. The shutter speed will now be automatically adjusted for the correct exposure.

pesfls Loc: Oregon, USA

You are correct. I have never used it that way. Just a hand held meter with those lenses. My memory of what I read about matrix was incorrect. I was surprised to read what you said about matrix and looked in my owner manual. Thanks.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I think the Df would be similar to other Nikon DSLRs in terms of using different lenses. Old lenses will fit, but some might not meter or focus automatically.

BebuLamar

The Df is different from all other Nikon DSLRs in term of using different lenses. I can use more lenses than any Nikon DSLR's.

BebuLamar

I think Canon is better. Any lenses made since 1987 can be used with full function

Jerry Green Loc: Huntsville, AL

Check out Nikon Cafe. You can get lots of help there. They have a section for Nikon full frame cameras.

ebbote Loc: Hockley, Texas

Welcome to the Hog Terry, enjoy.

wingclui44 Loc: CT USA

Welcome to the Df group! I have it since 2013, and won't consider another Nikon unless that is a Df-2!! For your question about using old Nikkor lens on the Df, that's no problem at all. Check with your manual at page 163-167 There they clearly explain what and how those lenses will work on your Df, on page 167, it show you what you need to do with your non AI (Pre-AI) lens with out damage the camera. Because of the lenses you own are old film lens with aperture ring, you can take advantage of it to use the ring for direct changing aperture on the lens, just go to custom setting at 'f 7" > Customize Command Dial>Aperture Setting>Aperture.
All my lenses (MF or AF) have aperture ring, and I love to use it for aperture changing, it's quick and easy to read. I use "M" mode +Auto ISO most of the time. Changing ISO; exposure compensation; shutter speed; metering selection.. are all can be done from out side the camera body.

I don't think UHH will create an other forum just for the Df! Not much Df owner here anyway!
By the way, do you notice the shutter sound of the the Df is quite different to the other Nikon DSLR it's much quieter>

Have fun, and good luck! Keep shooting!

pendennis

Here's a cross-reference for Nikon cameras and lenses published by Ken Rockwell. Right at the top is the Df.

http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/compatibility-lens.htm

Nikon Df

Thank you! I was trying to figure out how to program the lenses to use the aperture ring. Knowing that it can be done is most helpful. I'm getting superb photos with the Df and share your enthusiasm for this camera. And, yes, the shutter is nice. Add 20 years to my 50 year-old lenses and you might understand why this film guy is having some trouble with the manual and aftermarket books. But I'll get there, and thanks all for your helpful comments.

carl hervol Loc: jacksonville florida

If more people would read the manuals then there will be less questions that's why they give you a manual when you read the manual have the camera in front of you and go through the moves .

RWR Loc: La Mesa, CA

I have no use for matrix metering or through the lens flash, so except for 4 early non-retrofocus Nikkors I can mount and meter every F mount lens ever made on my Df without ever touching a menu button. And it the camera had a mechanical mirror lock-up, those 4 lenses would be 100% functional.