|  Although Nikon has discontinued the D50 range, it remains one of the top SLR performers. I use this camera because:
Nikon is truly a name that needs no introduction in the world of photography, long associated with superior lenses and rugged, fully-functional cameras. The Nikon D50 extends most of the capabilities of the D70 down to a lower price category. The Nikon D50 features a new 6.1 effective megapixel Nikon DX Format CCD image sensor and a highly advanced image processing engine that team up to create truly faithful image files capable of enlargement, yet remain manageable in overall file size, simplifying the storage of more great pictures.
These optimized components produce more consistent results, even under shooting conditions that challenge other digital cameras, such as when working with light-coloured subjects or long exposure shots.
Distinguishing itself from similar SLR's in the same range, the Nikon D50 is always ready to shoot when that special moment or expression presents itself. When the power is turned on, the camera is ready to shoot in just 0.2 seconds. The shutter's release lag time is also minimized for near-instant response that virtually eliminates a notoriuous frustration of digital photography.
Continuous shooting at 2.5 frames/sec. can be maintained for bursts of up to 137 pictures, making it great for action photography. Pictures taken are instantly processed and stored on the photographer's compact SD (Secure Digital) memory card. A new USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface supports faster download of images when connected to a compatible computer.
Shutter speed choices extend from 30 sec. to an action-freezing 1/4,000 sec. A high-speed flash sync speed up to 1/500 sec. makes great fill-flash photography a dream, and Nikon technology makes it automatic. A bulb setting is also included for extra long exposures. The shutter is designed to ensure fast curtain action for consistent operation and accurate, repeatable results, even at high shutter speed settings. AUTO ISO maximizes available light by automatically adjusting ISO-equivalent sensitivity across the available range of 200 to 1600. D50 photographers can also opt to set the ISO sensitivity manually for personal control, so lots more flexability.
The D50's 5-area autofocus system inherits Nikon's proven cross-type center sensor, broad frame coverage, and class-leading low light detection found only in the prize-winning Nikon D70 camera, and delivers even greater AF precision with rapid, more consistent subject acquisition and much-improved focus tracking. The new system adopts AF-A mode for smooth automated operation that switches between AF-S (single-servo autofocus) and AF-C (continuous-servo autofocus) depending on the movement of the subject in the framed shot. An AF-assist illuminator is also included, which assists to maximize performance when shooting in low-lighting conditions.
The D50 produces consistently natural colouration by measuring the entire frame of the shot and adapting the white balance to the light source. Advanced auto white balance handles most lighting situations, but the flexible options include a choice of six specific manual settings, white balance bracketing for icreased creativity, as well as a preset option for using a gray or white object as a calibrating reference under mixed lighting conditions.
Nikon's new 3D Color Matrix Metering II ensures accurate exposure control in most types of lighting conditions by automatically comparing input from its frame-wide 420-pixel sensor for each scene to a large onboard database of over 30,000 scenes from actual photography. Professionals and amateurs alike rely on Nikon's exclusive light metering technologies that produce ideal exposures immediately. Newly developed exposure evaluation methods detect highlights and shadows in the frame, and compensate for them to help minimize under- or over-exposure by comparing the lighting pattern of the frame with the onboard database of scenes, thus enhancing performance for more accurate and consistent photography.
A most important advantage and a source of the joy associated with Nikon digital SLR photography is the ability to take advantage of interchangeable lenses. The new D50 offers seamless compatibility with Nikon's extensive family of high-performance AF Nikkor lenses, as well as the expanding family of digital-dedicated DX Nikkor lenses, providing superb colour reproduction, razor-sharp image clarity and fast and accurate autofocus performance. The rule of thumb remains that digital photography is only as good as the "glass" that you use, so for unparralelled sharpness and fast responses you must invest in the more expensive lense categories.
The compact, light-weight design of the new D50 body makes it comfortable to carry on any trip, while its body contours and easily accessible controls provide excellent handling efficiency and easy operation. Newly added on-screen menus present clear and helpful user information in plain language on the D50's large 2.0-inch LCD monitor, and intuitive help dialogs are available for on-the-spot reference to the respective menu selections. The high-capacity rechargeable lithium-ion battery ensures mobility and convenience by delivering the ability to shoot up to 2,000 images on a single charge, depending on the lenses and lense features used.
The Nikon D50 presents the ideal opportunity for anyone to start enjoying the advantages of Nikon digital SLR photography today.
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