Nikon's classic entry-level DSLR — the D50 that introduced millions to digital SLR photography.
The Nikon D50 was launched in April 2005 as Nikon's entry-level consumer DSLR, competing directly with the Canon EOS 350D. It introduced SD card storage to the Nikon DSLR lineup — the contemporaneous D70 used CompactFlash — making it the first Nikon DSLR to use the more compact and affordable SD format. The 6.1MP CCD sensor and Guide Mode made it an accessible first SLR for photographers stepping up from compact cameras. At approximately 540g with battery and card it was lighter than the D70.
The 6.1MP APS-C CCD sensor produces clean images at ISO 200-1600; ISO 1600 shows visible noise but is usable. The 5-point AF system provides one central cross-type point with four assisting points. Burst shooting runs at 2.5fps with a buffer of approximately 4 RAW frames. No video recording — the D50 predates DSLR video capability by several years. Battery life is rated at approximately 500 shots per charge using the EN-EL3e. At approximately 540g with battery and card the body is light for a DSLR. Single SD/SDHC slot.
The D50's practical advantages over the Canon 350D were the in-body AF drive motor (enabling autofocus with older AF-D Nikkor lenses without a built-in motor), the articulating information screen, and Nikon's superior Guide Mode for teaching beginners. The SD card slot was a practical convenience over the D70's CF format. As a CCD-sensor DSLR, the D50 produces colour rendering that some photographers find distinctive — CCD sensors handle skin tones and highlights differently from the CMOS sensors that replaced them.
On the used market the Nikon D50 is very affordable and primarily of interest as an entry to the Nikon F ecosystem or as a study in early DSLR ergonomics. The EN-EL3e battery is aging — check charge retention. Shutter life is rated at 100,000 actuations; verify count via EXIF. The sensor is CCD, not CMOS — noise handling differs from later Nikon DSLRs. The D40/D40x (2006-2007) offer comparable image quality with a more refined sensor; the D80 (2006) provides a significant step in resolution and AF performance. Compatible with all Nikon F-mount lenses; AF-S lenses autofocus; AF-D lenses autofocus via the body's in-built AF drive motor.