DSLR

DSLR and its Types

DSLR elaborates as a Digital Single Lens Reflex camera. It is a digital camera that comprises some specific electrical units. To name a few, there are sensors, shutters, a lens, a reflexive mirror, processors, a pentaprism and a viewfinder, etc.

DSLR Cameras are of two types based on sensor technology: CMOS & CCD. Both CMOS and CCD sensors offer an exceptional advantage over one another. While CCD gives a far more accurate light sensitivity, CMOS is much faster. CMOS consumes significantly less energy than CCD and is widely popular for DSLR sensors.

Another common categorization process for DSLR cameras is going by the sensor size. If the sensor size is a traditional 35mm, it’s called a Full Frame camera. If not, the camera is called a Crop Factor DSLR.

Features of a DSLR Camera

DSLR cameras open up the doors to manually control the exposure settings while photographing. There are also some unique properties of a DSLR Camera, which make it the best out of other digital cameras. Below are the key features that a DSLR camera offers.

Change & Upgrade Lenses

DSLR Camera allows you to quickly change lenses anytime, anywhere. Using several lenses, you can completely change the look and feel of a photo. Telephoto zoom lenses are for long-distance objects. A zoom lens can capture photos of a subject from hundreds of meters away. There are also short focal length pancake lenses such as 14mm, 10mm, etc. With these, you can get very wide photos. You can also upgrade your lens range from a very extended line of products. Upgrade when you want a new dimension in your creative pursuit.

Exposure Control: Aperture, ISO, Shutterspeed

With a DSLR you have total exposure control in your hand. Exposure is controlled by 3 main factors in any digital image. They are the lens aperture, ISO & shutter speed. Tweak one, two, or all three of the variables to add artistic touch like background blur or bokeh to your photos.

Unique Properties of a DSLR Camera

A DSLR Camera features some unique properties that no other camera format has. These properties make DSLR an exclusive choice for many photographers. Below are a few of those where a DSLR is the champion for professionals.

Ergonomically Well Balanced

Many professionals prefer a DSLR Camera due to its superior weight balance. Being on the heavier side of interchangeable lens cameras, DSLRs offer a greater balance to the user. This property adds to a better grip, and significantly reduces camera shake. It gives an edge to those who shoot in burst mode, also known as continuous shooting.

Mechanical Shutter

The mechanical shutter in a DSLR is not only a retro property but also one of its artistic touches. With a mechanical shutter, the sensor captures the whole picture exactly at the same moment, unlike rolling or electronic shutters. This way it gives a clearer, crispy image by literally “freezing the moment”. This is a huge plus side for any photography like weddings, nature, wildlife, or even sports.

Natural View of The Optical Viewfinder

An optical viewfinder (OVF) is one of those properties that set a DSLR apart from any other camera. The use of an optical viewfinder allows the user to observe scenes as the naked eye sees. This is more desirable than digitally generated previews. An optical viewfinder also makes no black screens when continuous capturing is in action. Therefore it’s loved by fast action photographers like sports and photojournalists. You will love the OVF of DSLR cameras, especially if you tend to shoot in the dark or use eyeglasses.

Dust Protection For Sensors

While other digital camera sensors sit close to the mounting neck, DSLR sensors sit at the far back of the camera. A physical shutter is present, plus a mirror in between the lens mount and shutter compartment. This results in for the sensor being tough to reach, even for dust and microparticles. So, an added layer of protection is there for the camera sensor.

Widest Range of Professional Quality Lenses

The DSLR line of compatible lens range surpasses all other types of cameras. It is because DSLRs redefined digital communication. Leading camera manufacturers have their line of lenses to use with almost every model from them. This unprecedented amount of compatible lenses takes your professional creativity to a whole other level. You can find lenses as large as f/0.9 to f/32 aperture. And the immense variation of focal length for them is just a treat to lens lovers. There are also limited edition and ‘art series” lenses that offer an out-of-the-world look to your photos.

Dedicated Sensors for Autofocus

DSLR cameras offer an individual sensor for autofocus measuring. The majority of DSLRs feature a technology called Phase Detection. It uses incoming light to focus subjects rather than modern contrast-detecting technology. This is loved by many for a finer outcome of autofocus. Today’s advanced DSLRs offer more than hundreds of phase-detecting autofocus points with cross-point features.

Extended Battery Life

DSLR is tremendously popular for its battery life. Shot counts of a DSLR camera’s battery start where a Mirrorless Camera’s ends. With a single charge, you can shoot thousands of photos with the highest settings. If your assignments require lots of shots, a DSLR is the way to go.

Optional Features to Keep in Mind

DSLR Cameras offer many optional features that are becoming standard day by day. To make your photography journey more enjoyable, consider the features below.

Live View & Adjustable Display

The preview display of your DSLR is now adjustable in many models. You can tilt and rotate these displays as you want. Tiltable displays open up the chance of the device with a large preview and even from the opposite side. This is a great feature that cinematographers love.

Sensor Type

A DSLR uses either a CCD or a CMOS sensor to turn light information into digital data. Variations of the sensor type can determine your ISO and power consumption. CCD is costlier than CMOS types. CCD offers distortion-free, more accurate data but the CMOS type is faster. Keep the sensor type in mind depending on your photography or video-capturing niche.

ISO Range

Although most DSLRs offer a standard ISO range, you should look for a higher number if you tend to shoot at night. Low-light photography will be tough if your sensor does not feature enough ISO sensitivity.

Focus Points

Keep the number of auto-focus points given for the model you are choosing. You will want more if you are okay with not manually dialing the focus. The higher focus points you have, the better autofocus you will get.

Built-in or External Flash

If you are not shooting in a closely controlled light environment or full daylight, you will need assistance from a flashlight. Most DSLRs feature a built-in flash whereas many professional-grade devices don’t. Consider external flash mounting options for high-end DSLR cameras.

Connection Ports

You will need enough connection ports for flexible production needs. Devices and camera accessories like boom, lapel mics, professional monitors, etc need various ports like 3.5mm audio, N3-type, HDMI, Type C, etc.