Camera Basics

Viewfinder

• A device found on all DSLRs and some digital compacts that serves as the main visual source for image-taking.

• A type of lens used in photography to enhance image quality.

• A feature that allows photographers to take pictures without looking through the camera.

• An accessory that is only available in professional cameras.

Body

• The main portion of the camera that can vary in shape and size.

• The lens that focuses light onto the sensor.

• The battery compartment that powers the camera.

• The viewfinder that allows the photographer to see the scene.

Flash

• Available on all cameras except some professional grade DSLRs.

• Only found on professional grade DSLRs.

• Used to capture images in bright sunlight.

• A feature that enhances video quality.

Shutter Release Button

• A mechanism that captures the image by opening the shutter

• A button that adjusts the aperture size

• The mechanism that 'releases' the shutter and enables the ability to capture the image

• A feature that controls the camera's ISO settings

Aperture

• Affects the image's exposure by changing the diameter of the lens opening, which controls the amount of light reaching the image sensor.

• Determines the color balance of the image by adjusting the white balance settings.

• Controls the sharpness of the image by altering the focus distance.

• Regulates the ISO sensitivity of the camera to light conditions.

Zoom Ring

• A mechanical ring which is turned to extend or retract the lens.

• A button that adjusts the focus of the camera.

• A switch that powers the camera on and off.

• A dial that changes the aperture settings.

Auto/Manual Focus Switch

• This switch allows for the focus to be changed from manual to automatic interchangeably.

• This switch is used to adjust the aperture settings of the camera.

• This switch controls the shutter speed of the camera.

• This switch is used to turn the camera on and off.

Mode Dial

• A dial used on digital cameras to change the camera's mode.

• A button that adjusts the camera's brightness.

• A lever that controls the camera's zoom level.

• A switch that turns the camera on and off.

Tripod

• A two-footed stand used for balancing a camera.

• A three-footed stand often used to balance a camera.

• A handheld device for taking pictures.

• A type of camera lens used for zooming in.

Image Sensor

• Converts the optical image to an electronic signal, which is then sent to your memory card.

• Stores images in a digital format for later retrieval.

• Enhances the brightness and contrast of an image before processing.

• Transmits images wirelessly to a connected device.