The Nikon F55 is a single lens reflex camera. It was manufactured from 2002 to 2006. The camera was mainly aimed at beginners. A version with time and date imprinting was also available as F55D / N55QD.
The lenses of the Nikon F55 can be exchanged. For this purpose the camera is equipped with a Nikon F lens mount. Often you will find the 35mm camera with the AF Nikkor 28-80mm f/3.3-5.6G. In 1959, the Nikon F bayonet was introduced by the Japanese manufacturer.
Over the years, the Anschluss has been steadily improved. Other manufacturers of compatible lenses include Tokina, Tamron and Samyang companies. Although the bayonet has not changed too much, not all lenses can be used with all cameras. Manual focusing is not necessary with the 35mm camera. The Nikon F55 features a built-in autofocus.
The Nikon F55 has an integrated light meter. It is designed for an ISO range of 25 to 5000. The camera determines the correct film sensitivity using the DX code. The precise exposure is measured trough the lens (TTL) of the 35mm SLR. Exposure settings are set automatically by the camera. The aperture and shutter speed are freely adjustable.
The Nikon F55 is equipped with a built-in flash. An external flash can be triggered via the built-in hot shoe. The Nikon F55 has a self-timer and tripod thread.
The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 12,9 x 9,2 x 6,5 cm. At this size her weight is 350 grams. The camera needs two CR2 batteries (eBay / Amazon*). The date back versions of the camera use a CR2025 coin battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon F55
The Nikon F55 is an analogue camera and needs to be equipped with 35mm film. 35mm films are still produced by different producers. One option for b/w images is the Kodak T-Max 400*. A possible film for color pictures is the Kodak Ultramax 400*. Infrared films cannot be used with the camera.
The colour film is processed in the C-41 development process. The C-41 process is carried out by almost all photographic laboratories. For example, you can hand in your films for developing at many drugstores in Germany.
The negatives of the Nikon F55 have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. So at least 36 pictures fit on a 36 mm film. The film transport is automatic. The photographer does not have to rewind it. When inserting the films, the film is wound out of the cartridge. When the picture is taken, it is wound back into the cartridge. This way, no images are lost if the back cover is opened accidentally.
Nikon N55
Nikon N55 is the name of the model for the market in the USA.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Nikon F lens mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 second to 30 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 5000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 2EV (0,5EV to) |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/90 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x CR2 batteries |
| Size | 12,9 x 9,2 x 6,5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.08 x 3.62 x 2.56 inches |
| Weight | 350 Grams |
| Names in other markets | USA: Nikon N55 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Production duration | 4 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 54,90 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 65 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 75,12 Euro (81.18 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 73,42 Euro (79.02 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 61,67 Euro (66.03 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F55
How long was the Nikon F55 produced?
The Nikon F55 was manufactured from 2002 to 2006. It was aimed at beginner photographers, making it a popular choice for those new to SLR photography.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The Nikon F55 uses Nikon F-mount lenses. Many lenses are compatible, including those made by Sigma, Tokina, Tamron, and Samyang. However, not all modern lenses will work.
Does the camera focus automatically?
Yes, the Nikon F55 has autofocus, so you don't need to manually focus. This makes it easier to take sharp photos, especially for beginners.
What type of film does this 35mm camera use?
The Nikon F55 uses standard 35mm film. These are readily available from many retailers and come in various ISO speeds suitable for diverse lighting conditions.
What's the size and weight of the camera?
According to the manual, the dimensions are 12.9 x 9.2 x 6.5 cm and it weighs 350 grams. It's a relatively compact and lightweight SLR camera.