I recently recieved the nikkon D50 seems to be an older model of the now D40 but just a little larger. Anyway i have been taking some pictures just on auto mode and auto focus not messing with shutterspeed, aperture, f-stop, etc. and to tell you guys the truth i dont have a clue about these features and how they help? or how to use them. any advice?

To be honest with you - go pick up a book or an instructional DVD. That's going to be the best way to learn other than simply trial ane error. I've had my D40 for almost 2 months now and I'm just starting to figure things out. There's plenty of good sites out there with quality camera/photography info on them as well. Check out http://www.nikonians.org/for good info on using your D50.

I picked up a copy of this book, and it's been a decent enough starting point for me.

http://www.amazon.com/Digital-SLR-Cameras-Photography-Dummies/dp/0764598031

Good luck!

I think nikkon D50 is ok..

Check out some good photography books at your local library or shop online. Some really good DSLR books out there now that can help you get the most of your shots. Also, you might want to check into some filters, a UV filter at least to protect your lens and a Polorizer filter to make your blue sky look darker blue and accent any mountain and clouds you have against that background. Good also for pictures in snow or water.

www.kenrockwell.com is a good place to start too. Also, www.dpreview.com . Good luck and good shooting.