SLR Cameras (46 Photos): How To Choose A Camera? What It Is? The Device Of Cameras, Photography Fundamentals. How To Take Pictures With A DSLR Correctly?

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-18 12:09

SLR cameras are insanely popular today. Such a technique is presented in the widest assortment - there are copies of different price categories and with different functionality on sale. In this article, we will learn about the features of modern SLR cameras and figure out how to choose the right one.

What it is?

Before getting acquainted with the characteristics and features of modern "DSLRs", it is advisable to understand what they are.

So, a DSLR camera (or SLR camera) is a device whose viewfinder works mirror based that is just behind the lens at a 45-degree angle with respect to its immediate optical axis.

Due to such features of the internal device, it becomes possible to carry out sighting through a removable or auxiliary lens.

Nowadays, SLR cameras are very popular and in demand, because they allow you to get very beautiful, high-quality pictures with rich and rich colors. Such devices have a huge resource of work and a fairly simple control, which is easy to deal with. Consider what other advantages are characteristic of the technology in question.

1. Modern SLR camera works efficiently and reliably . Focusing on a particular object occurs as quickly and clearly as possible. This advantage plays one of the most important roles when choosing a technique of this type.
2. Using such equipment, you will notice that the resulting image is transmitted immediately , without delays, unlike other devices.
3. Mirrors are also attractive because the lens in them can always be replaced with another . Often, one camera comes with a couple of different lenses with different focal lengths. These components are installed very easily, as well as removed.
4. Modern SLR cameras are made multifunctional . Many devices provide the ability to change settings, frame quality. You can even pick up such copies on which it is convenient even to edit the photographs taken. Modern equipment is often complemented by built-in modules for wireless networks (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi).
5. By working with a SLR camera, the user can completely control the shooting … You can independently set certain settings, for example, white balance, shutter speed, color saturation and many other important parameters.
6. Most DSLRs boast battery life . A single charge can be enough for a huge number of frames.
7. SLR Cameras assembled using modern technologies … The build quality of such equipment can be safely called impeccable. Cameras are well protected from moisture and dust. With all its appearance, this technique speaks of its reliability, strength and durability.
8. On sale, buyers can find not only very expensive, but also budget models of high-quality DSLRs … Today, many brands produce inexpensive but functional and reliable hardware.
9. Modern SLR cameras attractive and user-friendly … Most models are equipped with informative and bright displays. A sufficient number of buttons are provided on the body, due to which it is as simple and convenient to operate the equipment as possible.

The advantages of SLR cameras are quite significant, so this technique has conquered the market. But there are also some disadvantages that you should also be aware of.

1. Despite the fact that SLR cameras are presented in a wide variety of price categories, still most of them are expensive … The difference is especially noticeable when comparing DSLRs with so-called "soap dishes".
2. Many DSLR cameras have impressive weight … The dimensions of such equipment are also often significant. Because of this, DSLRs are not very convenient to carry or put in a bag.
3. Such a technique will require regular recharging .… Even the most powerful battery will need to be recharged and you should not forget about it, so that at an unexpected moment you will not be left without beautiful photos. This feature can hardly be called a serious disadvantage, but it must be taken into account.

DSLR cameras have no other major drawbacks. Of course, if you analyze the features of specific models from certain companies, then additional flaws can be noticed, but in general this is a popular and high-quality technique. It allows you to get clear and realistic photos.

History of origin

The first DSLR photographic lens was developed in 1861 by T. Setton … At that time, this event became one of the most important in the history of photographic technology. Already in those days, the new lens made it possible to obtain very beautiful, clear images.

The first SLR camera was impressive in size. It looked like a bulky box with a lid. The whole structure was on a sturdy tripod. Due to the presence of the cover, the light could not penetrate into the interior of the equipment, but observation through it was possible. Focus could be caught with a lens on glass. On it, by means of mirrors, the desired image was created.

In 1883, George Eastman decided to replace the glass plates with photographic film. After 5 years, he made his first lightweight Kodak camera.

Comparison with the system camera

DSLRs differ in many ways from conventional system cameras. Let's see what the main differences are.

The lenses of SLR cameras can be changed as needed . In most simple cameras, such actions are not provided.

Most DSLRs there is a high-quality optical viewfinder , which is one of the most important elements of the entire mechanism of technology. But mirrorless cameras, as a rule, have only LCD-displays, which do not always help to fully view the composition.

Some of them have a viewfinder, but electronic. It displays a picture from a matrix, not through a mirror system.

DSLRs, versus mirrorless, boast faster and better autofocus . All the components necessary for this in such devices are located directly under the mirror. Conventional mirrorless cameras are slightly inferior to mirrorless models in this, although more advanced devices can be found on the market that focus faster and more accurately.

Both conventional and SLR cameras provide a huge number of shooting settings . But most DSLRs have more options and different features than mirrorless cameras.

Many novice photographers find it more convenient to “get their hands on” with the SLR technique, since there are more necessary automatic modes, which are easy and simple to shoot with.

The lion's share of SLR cameras has powerful batteries , which is enough for 600-800 shots without recharging. Simple cameras in this regard are weaker and discharge faster.

To take a lot of shots, you need to stock up on extra batteries for such devices.

Species overview

SLR cameras are divided into two main categories - SLR, TLR. These cameras work in different ways. Let's take a closer look at these types of DSLRs.

SLR

The largest category is single-lens cameras . These devices use a special movable mirror that redirects light from the shooting lens to the frame window or to the viewfinder screen. There are such models in which a fixed translucent mirror is used to reduce the shutter delay and eliminate oscillations.

True, such a scheme significantly reduces the lens aperture, so it could not be widely used.

TLR

This is how dual lens cameras which were very popular back in 1940-1950. This technique has a separate viewfinder lens. Its focusing is automatically synchronized with the focusing of the shooting lens itself. The fields of view of these components coincide, due to which it is possible to frame the image more accurately and clearly.

Dual-lens camera modifications were originally used for shooting photographs on film. But a single-lens camera was originally equivalent to SLR devices.

Popular models

Currently, high-quality and multifunctional DSLRs are produced by many well-known brands - buyers have plenty to choose from. Let's take a closer look at some of the popular models and find out what their characteristics are.

Nikon D3300 Kit

The top model has a matrix with a resolution of 24, 7 megapixels. Shoots footage with a maximum resolution of 6000x4000. The type of the device's matrix is CMOS. The battery of this SLR camera is enough for 700 high-quality shots.

In its class, this model has become one of the most popular and sold. A very simple and intuitive model to operate, equipped with a tripod mount. The camera can also be controlled remotely, which is very convenient. There is a built-in flash that operates at a distance of 12 m. There is a high-quality and informative display on the body.

The structure of the equipment also provides for a microphone connector. This means that Nikon D3300 Kit can be safely used as a good camcorder.

Canon EOS 100D Kit

A high-quality device with a matrix of 18.5 megapixels. Shoots photos with a maximum resolution of 5148x3456. The sensor type here is exactly the same as in the Nikon sample described above. The shooting speed here is 4 frames per second. The battery from Canon is slightly inferior to the Nikon D3300 Kit - it is enough for only 380 photos.

This device boasts a user-friendly touch screen on the body. The viewfinder is capable of covering at least 95% of the frame. The photographer can change all settings manually. This DSLR allows you to shoot original shots in HDR quality, you can connect a remote control.

Canon EOS 100D Kit attracts with its compact size (it is not too small, but also not bulky).

Sony Alpha SLT-A58 Body

A well-known Japanese manufacturer produces wonderful SLR cameras. So, Sony Alpha SLT-A58 Body has a matrix of 20, 4 megapixels. The shooting speed here is 8 frames per second. The battery capacity of the DSLR is enough for 690 photos. The maximum photo size is 5456x3632, and the video is 1920x1080.

Sony's device is more advanced and modern. It can be bought for hobbyists to get beautiful photos and improve their shooting skills. This is a great solution for those who are tired of taking simple amateur photos and want to learn something new. The device has an excellent optical stabilizer with a sensor shift.

In addition, it features a very convenient swivel screen design.

Canon EOS 600D Kit

Another popular model from the famous Canon brand with a matrix resolution of 18, 7 megapixels. The maximum photo resolution is 5184x3456. ISO here is 100-3200. The battery here is not the most capacious and is enough for only 440 photos. Without a lens, the device weighs 570 g.

The device began to be sold back in 2011, but to this day it remains popular and is in great demand. This is one of the best budget SLR cameras out there. Canon EOS 600D Kit is the ideal machine in terms of price-performance ratio.

Equipped with a convenient swivel screen, very ergonomic placement of control buttons on the body.

Pentax K-50 Kit

Popular DSLR model with 16.5 megapixel matrix. The shooting speed is 6 frames per second. The battery lasts for 480 photos. The maximum photo resolution is 4928x3264, and the video is 1920x1080.

Pentax K-50 Kit differs from all other devices in the presence of a perfectly protected case, which does not allow moisture to pass through, and is protected from dust and temperature changes. The camera provides Time Lapse and HDr shooting modes. AA batteries can be used as a power source.

Nikon D5200 Kit

DSLR camera with a matrix of 24, 7 megapixels. Shoots photos with a maximum resolution of 6000x4000. Matrix type - CMOS. The shooting speed of the device is 5 frames per second. Without a lens, the device weighs 555 g.

Very high quality, but at the same time inexpensive camera. It can easily become an excellent assistant for a novice photographer. The device supports white balance and exposure bracketing and is equipped with a high-quality rotary screen. The battery is enough for 500 shots here.

The user can control this technique remotely.

How to choose?

For a DSLR camera to please the user and not bring disappointment, it must be chosen correctly. Consider what you should look for when looking for your "own" DSLR model.

1. First, the user is advised to decide on what for what purpose he wants to buy a camera . This will determine which model suits him best. You need to know that a high-quality DSLR can also be used for good video shooting. Consumers can choose the right device for both the professional and the amateur.
2. Choosing a camera, you need to pay attention to the resolution and size of the matrix . Oddly enough, very often an excessively large number of pixels, in the case of a DSLR, on the contrary, has a bad effect on the quality of pictures.
3. It is advisable to inquire about light sensitivity and image stabilization capabilities . The higher the ISO, the better the images the camera can produce. Good image stabilization will help you get rid of unnecessary blur while shooting.
4. The battery capacity of the camera must also be taken into account . Different models have different indicators. You need to choose such a source, the charge of which will be enough for you for the planned filming. If the equipment has too weak battery, the photographer will have to carry extra batteries with him.
5. It is recommended to buy such cameras which will seem to the user the most comfortable, ergonomic … Before buying, it is advisable to hold the camera in your hands, click on the buttons on the body. Make sure that the location of all the components is comfortable and convenient for you.
6. Making a choice in favor of a particular camera, it is worth looking closely at branded items . A camera from a well-known manufacturer will last longer, be of better quality and more reliable, and will be covered by the manufacturer's warranty. It is not recommended to buy too cheap Chinese cameras from unknown companies - such devices do not inspire confidence.
7. It is recommended to buy a high-quality SLR camera in a trusted store . It can be a large networker or a mono-brand outlet. Here you can easily check the operation of the equipment, as well as receive a warranty card after payment.

If we choose the right photographic equipment, we will never be disappointed in it. It is better to go to the store prepared, knowing exactly what the camera is being selected for.

How to use?

To use a DSLR properly, it is advisable to know at least the minimum basics of photography. With such a camera, the user can learn to take better pictures, better. Let's take a look at some of the basics of photography that you should familiarize yourself with before using a DSLR.

1. There is A (Av) mode , in which a person sets certain aperture parameters, and the camera selects the shutter speed itself.
2. The photographer should always keep an eye on the aperture for beautiful shots … Aperture priority is usually indicated by the letter F. This is a mode with which you can shoot great portraits. You can open the aperture as much as possible and get a bokeh effect.
3. Convenient to use automatic modes , among which there are "landscapes", "portrait", shooting mode at night (when you want to beautifully shoot the moon or the starry sky).
4. Available in DSLRs and shutter priority mode - S (Tv) . In this case, the photographer sets a certain shutter speed, and the aperture value is set by the camera itself. So, if you want to "freeze" some moving objects in order to make spectacular pictures, then you need to set a short time (measured in fractions). If you want objects to be slightly blurred (for example, falling snow), then the time, on the contrary, should be set long.
5. The mode of independence is " manual mode " … Here the photographer chooses the appropriate values for both aperture and shutter speed. If you have just started learning, then it is better to start with other modes - A and S.

There are many other DSLR settings. It is easier to understand, configure and master the work of such a technique than it seems.