Nikon Museum Holds Special Exhibition “Secrets Behind the Viewfinder — Take a look at the world through the camera's eye”

The Nikon Museum, operated by Nikon Corporation, will open a special exhibition titled 'Secrets Behind the Viewfinder — Take a look at the world through the camera's eye' on October 22, 2026. The event invites visitors to explore how rangefinder, single-lens reflex (SLR), and mirrorless cameras present the world differently through their viewfinders. Using actual cameras, cutaway models, and demonstration units, attendees can examine the mechanisms behind each system and observe how images are inverted and corrected in real time.

A key focus of the exhibition is the optical principles that transform inverted images into correct orientations. Visitors will see how light passing through a lens is reversed and how viewfinders restore the proper perspective. The display includes components from dismantled Nikon SP rangefinder and Nikon F SLR cameras, allowing direct comparison of shared and unique parts across systems. These exhibits highlight the technical distinctions that influence image framing and shooting experience.

The exhibition offers interactive experiences where visitors can look through viewfinders of different camera types to compare their perspectives firsthand. This hands-on approach aims to deepen understanding of how each system’s design affects the photographer’s view of the scene. Episodes related to Nikon cameras are also featured, providing historical context alongside technical explanations.

The Nikon Museum is accessible via public transport from Nishioi Station (4-minute walk), Oi-machi Station (12-minute walk), and Shimo-shimmei Station (10-minute walk). The museum notes there are no visitor parking facilities and advises using trains or buses. Closures or schedule changes may occur due to weather or transport conditions, with details subject to updates.