Camera Basics

Do you have a camera? What kind of camera is it? Why do you take photographs?

Types of Cameras Film (Analog) Cameras Digital Cameras

Film (Analog) Camera A film camera is made of three basic elements: 1.Optical (the lens) 2.Chemical (the film) 3.Mechanical (the camera body) The three elements combine to create a printable image.

Two Types of Film Cameras Point and Shoot (P&S) ◦ The viewfinder provides a rough idea of what is in view, but not the real image.  Great for capturing memories Single Lens Reflex (SLR) ◦ You see the actual image that will be exposed onto the film.  Great for capturing images with real impact ◦ Provides more control and better images than P&S.

SLR Demonstration

Digital Camera A digital camera records images electronically using a built in processor. Has a lens like an analog camera ◦ BUT, the lens refracts light onto computer chips rather than film. Similar features to film counterparts Relies on electronic processing and storage

Digital Camera Images are stored as a collection of tiny squares or pixels. ◦ Pixels = picture elements

Digital Camera Resolution: number of pixels captured by the image sensor. Higher Resolution Image 300 ppi Lower Resolution Image 72 ppi

Types of Digital Cameras Point and Shoot (P&S) ◦ Most feature LCD screens and advanced zoom lenses. SLR ◦ Can switch out lenses like an analog version ◦ Allows user an accurate preview of the photo subject.

Parts of a Camera 1.On/Off 2.Shutter Release 3.Mode Dial 4.Microphone 5.Built in Flash 6.Self Timer Lamp 7.Eyelet for strap 8.Connector cover 9.Cable Connector 10.Power Connector Cover 11.Lens 12.Lens Cover

Parts of a Camera (cont) 1.Electronic Viewfinder 2.Speaker 3.Monitor Button 4.Zoom 5. Monitor 6. Playback Button 7. Button 8.Multi Selector 9. Delete 10. Button 11.Tripod Socket 12.Battery Chamber Cover 13.Battery chamber 14.Memory Card Slot

How to use a camera

Getting your camera ready 1. Remove the lens cap if necessary and set the mode dial. 2. Turn on the camera. 3. Check the battery levels and number of exposures or images you have room to capture. 4. Apply any necessary additional settings to ensure quality while taking photos.

Taking the photo 1. Ready the camera including stabilize the camera to minimize movement. 2. Frame the picture. 3. Press the shutter release button half way to automatically focus the camera. 4. Depress the shutter release button to capture the image.

Viewing and Transferring Photos Review the photos you have taken. Download the images to your computer using the provided cable or a card reader.

Lets Review: Types of Cameras What is the difference between ANALOG and DIGITAL cameras?  The main differences between the two are found in the technical aspect of creating the photo; film uses a chemical reaction to create the image on the film, whereas a digital camera uses a series of mirrors to reflect the image on a digital storage chip.

Lets Review: Camera Parts Do you remember each of the parts?

Lets Review: Taking a Photo What is the first step to getting your camera ready? ◦ Remove the lens cap (if necessary) and set the mode dial. What happens if you do not stabilize your camera before taking a picture? ◦ Your picture will not be as clear as it could have been.

Tomorrow… We will talk about the composition of your photo and how to make your photographs great!