F--
Nikon Camera
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
F-- means the camera cannot read the aperture information from the lens. The lens may not be properly attached, the contacts may be dirty, or you are using a fully manual lens without electronic contacts. Reattach the lens firmly and clean the contacts.
Affected Models
- Nikon D850
- Nikon D780
- Nikon D7500
- Nikon D5600
- Nikon Z series (with FTZ adapter)
Common Causes
- Lens not fully seated on the camera body
- Dirty or corroded lens contacts
- Using a manual lens without CPU contacts (AI/AI-S without chip)
- FTZ adapter not properly connected
- Lens release button accidentally pressed
How to Fix It
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Remove and reattach the lens — twist until it clicks.
Make sure the lens mounts fully and the white/orange dot aligns.
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Clean the lens contacts with a microfiber cloth.
Clean the gold contacts on both the lens and camera body.
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If using a manual AI/AI-S lens: set the camera to Manual mode.
Non-CPU lenses show F-- because they have no electronic contacts. Use Manual mode and set aperture on the lens ring. This is normal behaviour, not an error.
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If using an FTZ adapter: clean the adapter contacts too.
The FTZ adapter adds another set of contacts between lens and body. Clean all three connection points: lens, adapter (both sides), and camera body.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still take photos with F-- showing?
With CPU lenses: no, you need to fix the connection first. With non-CPU manual lenses: yes, F-- is normal. Shoot in Manual mode.
What is a CPU lens vs non-CPU lens?
CPU lenses have electronic contacts that communicate aperture and focus data to the camera. Non-CPU lenses (older AI/AI-S) are purely mechanical — the camera cannot read their settings electronically.