- published: 14 Jun 2012
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Digital single-lens reflex cameras (also named digital SLR or DSLR) are digital cameras combining the parts of a single-lens reflex camera (SLR) and a digital camera back, replacing the photographic film. Features like live preview, HD video recording with contrast detection autofocus or ergonomic integration like dedicated film speed (ISO) buttons took further advantage of the digital image sensor. Although the term DSLR often refers to cameras that resemble 35 mm format cameras, some medium format cameras are also DSLRs.
Currently DSLRs are widely used by consumers and professional still photographers. Well established DSLRs currently offer a larger variety of dedicated lenses and other photography equipment, often using a larger image sensor format, often providing a higher dynamic range and signal to noise ratio. By contrast compact digital cameras and bridge cameras usually have smaller image sensors, which provides a larger depth of field. The newer mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras (MILC) are beginning to compete with DSLRs while offering a more compact camera body.
A single-lens reflex (SLR) camera is a camera that typically uses a mirror and prism system (hence "reflex", from the mirror's reflection) that permits the photographer to view through the lens and hence see exactly what will be captured, contrary to viewfinder cameras where the image could be significantly different from what will be captured.
Prior to the development of SLR, all cameras with viewfinders had two optical light paths: one path through the lens to the film, and another path positioned above (TLR or twin-lens reflex) or to the side (rangefinder). Because the viewfinder and the film lens cannot share the same optical path, the viewing lens is aimed to intersect with the film lens at a fixed point somewhere in front of the camera. This is not problematic for pictures taken at a middle or longer distance, but parallax causes framing errors in close-up shots. Moreover, focusing the lens of a fast reflex camera when it is opened to wider apertures (such as in low light or while using low-speed film) is not easy.
Reflex camera may refer to:
Intro to DSLR: Choosing and Using a Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera
Understanding the single lens reflex (SLR) camera | lynda.com overview
Photography Tips : How to Use a Digital SLR Camera
Understanding DSLR vs. Mirrorless Cameras
How to Use a DSLR Camera: Learn DSLR Camera Basics Shutter Aperture ISO
DSLR Review : digital single lens reflex camera reviews
Buying Digital SLR Cameras
What is a DSLR or digital single lens reflex
Introducing a single lens reflex (SLR) camera | lynda.com overview
DSLR Photography Basics: Understanding Your Camera