Easy to use Nikon 35mm AF SLR camera body - a great introduction to the Nikon system

• Nikon AF SLR body
• 11 exposure modes
• Speeds to 1/2,000th
• 3D Matrix metering
• Auto or manual focus
• Built in TTL flash unit
• Large LCD readouts
• Auto wind and rewind
• Metal Nikon lens mount
• With body cap, battery

The Nikon F50 (sold in some countries as the N50) is a well made camera with a good specification. The body feels solid, all controls fall immediately to hand, plus it has large, clear information displays and a discreet black finish. It's ideal for anyone from a beginner with SLR cameras, to an advanced enthusiast looking for a second camera body. It works with many Nikon AF lenses (not supplied) for auto or manual focusing.

The camera has a full complement of exposure modes including shutter priority, aperture priority, metered manual and program, plus "full auto" and seven subject-based programs; Portraits, Landscapes, Close-ups, Sports, Silhouette, Night Scene and Motion Effect. Modes are set using push buttons and a large, clearly marked LCD readout on the top plate. There's a choice of Simple or Advanced operation, for ease of use or full functionality respectively.

The advanced 3D Matrix multi-pattern metering system reads the film speed automatically using DX coding from ISO 25 to 5000, or manually from ISO 6 to 6400. Exposure compensation of up to +/- 5 stops is available for difficult lighting conditions or for special effects, with an exposure lock button for holding meter readings from off-centre subjects.

Shutter speeds run from 30 seconds to 1/2000th, plus a useful T setting for time exposures. Flash sync is available up to 1/125th. Film loading, advance and rewind are motorised, and there's an electronic self timer. Film can be rewound in mid-film, if desired. Power is supplied by a standard 2CR5 Lithium battery (included).

The viewfinder displays full information including shutter speeds, apertures, in focus, flash ready and an exposure scale for +/- compensation and manual metering. There's also a large, clear top-plate LCD which displays exposure and mode information, plus the frame counter. Both displays are exceptionally large and easy to read, especially if your eyesight isn't 20/20, and the viewfinder has a built-in dioptre adjustment to match your eyes.

The camera focuses automatically or manually with all Nikon AF and independent Nikon AF-fit lenses, or manually with all others. The autofocus is fast and accurate, and you can lock focus on off-centre subjects by maintaining half-pressure on the shutter release. AF-S and VR lenses work with manual focusing only, though the camera does provide electronic focus confirmation. The camera has a metal lens mount for durability, and accepts the vast majority of Nikon and independent AF lenses (see below). Most older Nikon AI fit manual focus lenses can be used, for manual focus and exposure, but without metering.

There's a built-in, popup flash, and accurate exposure is determined through the lens (TTL flash). Shutter speeds and apertures are set automatically in program modes. A standard hot shoe allows the use of external flashguns, and this has contacts for dedicated auto flash modes with Nikon and independent flash units.

A great 35mm AF camera body from Nikon!

Condition: Excellent++ (8/10)
This camera is in fully working order, the viewfinder is bright and clear with only a few harmless specks of dust, and all controls operate smoothly and positively. Cosmetically it looks good with only the usual signs of use, including some scratches and scrapes in the plastic finish here and there. The rubber grip is more obviously marked, and feels slightly sticky. Overall, it's in good used shape! Pictures in this listing show the actual item offered for sale.

Includes generic body cap, plus Lithium battery

Compatibility
This camera has Nikon's standard AF lens mount, and can use a huge range of Nikon AF and independent AF lenses. For all metering modes you can use D or G lenses, but even older AF lenses (apart from those for the F3AF) will work with Matrix metering and all exposures modes. Nikon's AF-S, VR and Sigma HSM lenses (with internal focus motors) can be used, with manual focusing and electronic focus confirmation only.

Manual focus lenses with Nikon AI mount can be used, plus manual, pre-set and mirror lenses for manual operation only. The metering system does not operate with non-CPU lenses or accessories. AI-P lenses can be used with all exposure modes and manual focusing. The very early (pre-1977) non-AI lenses and accessories should not be used, as they can damage the camera's mount.

IX Nikkor lenses for the APS cameras, and DX Nikkor types for digital cameras (plus independent digital-only lenses such as Sigma DC, Tokina DX and Tamron DI-II) are not compatible with 35mm models.