Nikon N55 is a great entry level camera for the amateur and those who don't really want to understand photography. At first glance, you will notice it looks like any other 35mm SLR camera. However, holding it in your hand, it felt like it's in 3/4 scale. So the N55 is a perfect fit for someone with smaller hands. It works great as a point and shoot camera with all the automatic features you expect. All you have to do is press the button. It will auto focus, will flash if the light is low, etc. For those who want more creativity, there are features such as shutter priority, aperture priority, and various program modes for your portraits, sports, closeups, etc. without understanding anything about photography. And there is also the full manual mode for those who like to experiment and want total control of the camera settings. The manual settings do require a bit more time to set, as the buttons and dials are simplified, compare to a professional camera (Nikon F6). With the current sale price for $219 with a 28-80mm zoom lens, there are no better deals for a complete 35mm film camera. Again, it's a easy point and shoot camera with all the important features of the higher end SLR cameras. Being that it's a Nikon, there are many lens and accessories you can add to this camera if you do want to enjoy photography as a hobby, and it's compatible with other Nikon cameras (both film and digital) if you choose to upgrade.

The down side to the N55 was a auto-focus problem with the N55, where the camera just can't focus on the subject. This was recognized by Nikon and my camera was serviced by Nikon at no cost, even after my standard warranty expired. Not sure how many N55s were affected. I have read that similar problems also affected one other current digital SLR camera too. So maybe it's electronics. They don't make them like they used to.

If you are considering a 35mm SLR camera there is no better camera at a lower price. You if you are interested in a N55, it will be from inventory stock. Nikon discontinued their 35mm film SLR cameras for all but two cameras for professional use. Canon still have a few currently available. Kodak and Fuji are both still committed providing 35mm film. So film photography is not going away. It's no secret that the future is with digital photography. I won't debate the pros and cons of digital vs film photography. I too, have gone digital for 95% of my shots. In 75% of the situation for me, it makes no difference in the print quality using a film or digital camera. My N55 is now my back up camera. It fills in where my digital point and shoot camera can not do.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 239.00
This Camera is a Good Choice if You Want Something... Easy Enough for Anyone to Use