Camera types

Megapixel Equal to one million pixels (or 1 MP). Higher the MP = higher resolution =

nicer looking picture

Basic Digital Camera (point-and-shoot) A very simple camera

that has very few, if any, manual photographic controls.

Built in flash Automatic shooting

modes (ex. Landscape, portrait)

Either fixed focal length lens or a modest zoom lens

5 MP or lower

Mid-Range Camera Higher resolution

(7MP or 8MP) Built-in zoom lens

of @ least 3x More manual

controls

High-End Digital Camera Designed for the

more advanced snapper

Captures images faster

Better zoom ratio High resolution

(8MP or higher)

SLR and D-SLRSingle Lens ReflexHinged mirror that reflects the projected image from the lens into a prism or ground glass. The mirror moves aside during the exposure so the image light can expose the film or sensor. Look through the lens to

take the picture Inter-changeable lenses

and accessories

Medium Format Maximum

flexibility Interchangeable

lenses and film Larger negative =

higher resolution - richer colors - heaver, larger – needs a tri-pod

Large Format Camera

Can only be used on a tripod

Negatives/transparencies in a variety of sizes

- 4” x 5” to 11” x 14” Highest quality images Ability to make the

largest prints Still life, product,

architectural and landscape photography

Pinhole Camera

Does not use a lens - replaced by a

thin sheet of metal with a tiny hole in it that projects an image

Universal depth of field = everything is in focus

Image not as sharp

Memory card Small computer

chip called “flash memory”

Retains all the data that makes up the photo

Tripod A 3 legged metal

stand for holding a camera that prevents camera movement during exposures.