The initials DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) generally means cameras that resemble 35 mm format cameras, although some medium format cameras technically are, too. The majority of digital single-lens reflex cameras use a mechanical mirror system and pentaprism to direct light from the lens to an optical viewfinder on the rear of the camera.
How it Works and How To Set Up and Use Them
The standard functionality of is as follows: for viewing purposes, the mirror reflects the light coming through the attached lens upwards at a 90 degree angle. It is then reflected 3 times by the roof pentaprism, rectifying it for the photographer's eye.
Throughout exposure, the mirror assembly swings upward, the aperture narrows (if stopped down, or set smaller than wide open), and a shutter opens up, allowing the lens to project light onto the image sensor. A second shutter subsequently covers the sensor, stopping the exposure, and the mirror lowers while the shutter resets. The time scale that the mirror is flipped up is known as "viewfinder blackout". A fast-acting mirror and shutter is recommended so as not to delay an action photograph.
This all occurs automatically during a period of milliseconds, with cameras built to achieve this 3-10 times a second. This enables a precise preview of framing close to the instant of exposure. The majority also have a function that enables accurate preview of depth of field.
Versatility of the Digital SLR Camera
They currently have sensors which are generally closer in size to the traditional film formats that many existing professionals started out using. These large sensors allow for similar depths of field and picture angle to film formats, as well as their relatively high signal to noise ratio.
Quite a few professionals also opt for them because of their larger sensors compared to most compact digitals. They also tend to be used by professional still photographers because they allow the operator to choose from a number of interchangeable lenses.
Buying a DSLR Camera
The process of buying a new camera can be difficult and confusing, be it from technical jargon, or trying to justify your purchase to yourself or a disapproving spouse. But having made up your mind to buy the next stage is to figure out how to use it.
Before You Begin
It's tempting to just start taking pictures right away, but a more measured approach will not only help you get the most out of your camera shots, but will also make sure your camera does what you expect it to do.
Getting down to Basics: Formatting your memory card
Formatting introduces your memory card to your camera. Any info on it is cleared away and sets up a folder for your images. It only takes a few seconds, so make sure you do this before you begin shooting any images, or whenever you've copied its contents elsewhere and need to clear the card. This option is mainly accessible via the setup menu on most cameras. Your camera's manual will tell you exactly where this option is. It's sometimes marked with a toolbar such as a spanner.
Camera batteries
Many cameras use the standard alkaline AA type batteries. However, these alkaline types, will run down very quickly, so it's worth considering using either (NiMH) nickel metal hydride or lithium-ion types as these provide a better performance. Better still, it's better to invest in a charger with a set of rechargeable batteries. These will work out cheaper in the long run.
Setting it up: Program Modes
The next stage is to think about how much control you would like over your images. Almost all cameras offer automated setting which takes the guesswork out of decision making. Many offer a Program mode (usually marked 'P') which is similar but with a bit more control over flash, sensitivity etc. Many include scene modes which change the camera's settings according to the subject matter. If your camera offers other controls over and above these you don't need to worry about them just yet.
Taking pictures
Sometimes a camera can fail to deliver the results you are looking for. There are various reasons for this.
Focusing: A common one is through poor focusing. By default, your camera will be programed to focus on whatever is in the center of the frame, or on a dominant or close subject. Focusing is achieved when you half-depress the shutter release button on the top of the camera.
This will often be confirmed by a beep or by displaying a small green box enclosing the subject.
Without this confirmation the camera may not have found the correct focus, and is often caused by the shutter release button being pressed down too quickly.
Slowly Does It: It's important, therefore, to press this button slowly until a slight resistance is felt - or until proper focus has been found - then simply press the button down until the image has been captured.
If the camera cannot find focus for any reason a warning indicator may flash on the LCD screen, so try taking the image again, perhaps from a slightly different position. An amazing number of poorly focused images can be attributed to this not being done correctly.
Viewing your images and keeping them safe One of the great buzzes of using digital cameras is viewing your images instantly on your camera's LCD screen. But it's also a big drawback as it does deplete the batteries quickly.
It's preferable to examine them in closer detail on a computer, via a USB cable, usually supplied for the task. There's nothing wrong with using this but it requires your camera to be on, and so again requires battery power. Even worse, if your camera's battery dies during the process you risk corrupting or losing your images. So watch out for this.
Using a Card Reader
This can be overcome by using a card reader, which plugs into your computer in exactly the same way and usually accepts several different cards at the same time.
As these are powered only by the computer they plug into, this helps preserve both the contents of your card and your camera's batteries. Final Word of Caution: Never take a card out of a camera while it is on.
It may still be recording images to the memory card. Most cameras have a small indicator lamp somewhere on the rear which indicates whether any recording is still happening. So ensure you pay attention to this. Otherwise you risk corrupting the info on it, and may lose your precious images.
posted by michaelabela.weeby.com
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