2.1 Camera Types and Their Components

Cameras come in various types, each with unique features for different shooting needs. From DSLRs with their versatile lenses to mirrorless cameras' compact design and cinema cameras' pro-level capabilities, understanding these differences is key to choosing the right tool.

Camera bodies house essential components that work together to capture images. External controls, viewfinders, sensors, and connectivity options all play crucial roles in the photography process, influencing image quality and shooting experience.

Camera Types

Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) Cameras

• DSLR cameras utilize a mirror and prism system to reflect light from the lens to an optical viewfinder
• Feature interchangeable lenses allowing for versatility in shooting different subjects and styles
• Contain larger image sensors compared to point-and-shoot cameras, resulting in improved image quality and low-light performance
• Offer manual control over settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO for creative flexibility
• Provide fast autofocus capabilities, making them suitable for action and sports photography
• Typically have longer battery life due to the optical viewfinder not requiring power

Mirrorless Cameras

• Mirrorless cameras eliminate the mirror system found in DSLRs, reducing size and weight
• Use electronic viewfinders (EVF) or rear LCD screens for composing and reviewing images
• Offer silent shooting modes due to the absence of a moving mirror mechanism
• Feature faster continuous shooting speeds and improved video capabilities compared to DSLRs
• Provide real-time preview of exposure and white balance adjustments in the EVF or LCD
• Allow for shorter flange distance, enabling the use of more compact lenses and adapters for various lens mounts

Cinema Cameras

• Cinema cameras designed specifically for professional video production and filmmaking
• Feature larger sensors (Super 35mm or full-frame) for improved dynamic range and low-light performance
• Offer higher bit-depth and color sampling (10-bit, 12-bit, or higher) for enhanced color grading flexibility
• Provide various professional video formats and codecs (ProRes, RAW) for high-quality recording
• Include built-in ND filters for controlling exposure in bright conditions without changing aperture
• Offer modular designs allowing for customization with various accessories (matte boxes, follow focus systems)
• Feature multiple input and output options (XLR audio inputs, SDI outputs) for professional audio and video connections

Camera Body Components

External Controls and Interfaces

• Body houses internal components and provides ergonomic grip for comfortable handling
• Lens mount connects interchangeable lenses to the camera body, varies by manufacturer (EF, F-mount, E-mount)
• Hot shoe allows attachment of external flashes, microphones, or other accessories
• Mode dial enables quick switching between various shooting modes (Manual, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority)
• Control wheels and buttons provide access to settings such as ISO, white balance, and focus modes
• Memory card slots store captured images and videos, often supporting multiple card formats (SD, CF, XQD)

Viewfinder and Display Systems

• Optical viewfinder in DSLRs uses mirrors and prisms to show the exact image seen through the lens
• Electronic viewfinder (EVF) in mirrorless cameras provides a digital preview of the image with exposure simulation
• Rear LCD screen allows for image composition, review, and menu navigation
• Articulating screens offer flexibility for shooting at various angles and for vlogging
• Diopter adjustment customizes viewfinder clarity for individual eyesight
• Info display shows current camera settings, battery life, and other relevant shooting information

Power and Connectivity

• Battery compartment houses rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, often specific to camera models
• USB port enables tethered shooting, firmware updates, and battery charging in some models
• HDMI output allows for connection to external monitors or recorders for video production
• Wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) facilitates remote control and image transfer to mobile devices
• GPS module (built-in or attachable) tags images with location data for geotagging purposes
• Remote shutter release port allows connection of wired or wireless remote triggers for shake-free shooting

Image Capture Components

Image Sensor Technology

• Image sensor converts light into electrical signals to create digital images
• Sensor sizes vary (full-frame, APS-C, Micro Four Thirds) affecting field of view and low-light performance
• Pixel count determines resolution and detail capture capabilities of the sensor
• Sensor types include CMOS and CCD, with CMOS being more common in modern digital cameras
• Back-illuminated sensors improve light gathering efficiency for better low-light performance
• Dual native ISO technology in some sensors provides improved dynamic range and noise performance

Shutter Mechanisms and Functions

• Mechanical shutter uses physical curtains to control light exposure to the sensor
• Electronic shutter utilizes sensor readout to control exposure without moving parts
• Shutter speed controls duration of light exposure, affecting motion blur and freezing action
• Focal plane shutters located in front of the sensor, common in DSLRs and mirrorless cameras
• Leaf shutters integrated into some lenses, allowing for higher flash sync speeds
• Global shutter technology eliminates rolling shutter artifacts in video and fast-moving subjects

Aperture and Exposure Control

• Aperture controls the amount of light entering the camera through the lens opening
• Aperture blades form a diaphragm that adjusts the size of the lens opening
• F-stops represent the ratio of focal length to aperture diameter (f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6)
• Wider apertures (smaller f-numbers) allow more light and create shallow depth of field
• Narrower apertures (larger f-numbers) reduce light and increase depth of field
• Aperture priority mode allows photographers to set aperture while camera adjusts shutter speed
• Some cinema cameras feature built-in ND filters for additional exposure control without changing aperture