The Nikon FM2, a rugged 35mm film SLR introduced in the early 1980s, played a pivotal role in one of the most recognizable photographs in modern history. According to a Fstoppers report dated November 6, 2026, Steve McCurry used this camera paired with a 105mm lens to capture the haunting portrait of an Afghan girl in a Pakistani refugee camp in 1984. The image, later published by National Geographic, became a defining visual of the late 20th century.

McCurry loaded Kodachrome 64 film into the FM2, a choice that contributed to the photograph’s rich color depth and enduring clarity. The camera’s mechanical reliability and precise shutter performance made it well-suited for challenging field conditions, where discretion and durability were essential. Despite being over four decades old, the FM2 remains functional and sought after by film enthusiasts and collectors.

Used examples of the Nikon FM2 are still available on the secondary market for a few hundred dollars, offering accessible entry into analog photography with a proven historical pedigree. Its continued relevance underscores Nikon’s longstanding reputation for building durable, high-performance cameras. While the FM2 predates Nikon’s modern Z-mount mirrorless system, it exemplifies the brand’s legacy of optical and mechanical excellence that informs its current lineup.

This story highlights how specific tools, when matched with artistic vision, can produce work that transcends time. For creators interested in the intersection of gear and legacy, the FM2 serves as a tangible link between past photographic practices and today’s evolving imaging landscape. It also illustrates how enduring design can maintain value and utility long after a product’s initial release.

Creator Newsdesk readers exploring the roots of iconic imagery will find insight in understanding not just *what* was used, but *why* certain cameras earn lasting trust in the hands of master photographers. The FM2’s role in this landmark image reinforces the idea that impactful photography often begins with dependable, straightforward tools—qualities Nikon has consistently emphasized across generations of camera development.