Single Lens Reflex Camera
A single reflex camera is a camera that uses a mirror and a prism system that allows a photographer to view through the lens and see exactly what will be captured. This camera allows a photographer to adjust the modes by turning dials and pushing buttons, and the advantage of the SLR is that the eye sees approximately what the film will record, so you can freely interchange lenses and still see what you will record on the film.
How does a SLR camera work?
In a SLR camera, you see the real image that the film or digital sensor will record through a viewfinder. The light from the object enters through the lens at the front and is refracted onto a slanted mirror, between the shutter and lens, placed at a 45 degree angle, which then reflects the light (according to the laws of reflection) up to a pentaprism. Like a projection screen, this arrangement causes the image to be reflected off the lower mirror on to the translucent glass, and the prism creates the image onto the screen so it appears the correct way. The light strikes at the critical angle causing total internal reflection, and the image formed is redirected on to the viewfinder window, allowing you to see exactly what you are taking a picture of.
When you click the shutter button to take the picture, the mirror flips up and the shutter opens exposing the plate to light, allowing a picture to be taken. Since the mirror is connected to the shutter timer system, it stays open as long as the shutter is open. This explains why the viewfinder is suddenly blacked out when you take a picture.
When you click the shutter button to take the picture, the mirror flips up and the shutter opens exposing the plate to light, allowing a picture to be taken. Since the mirror is connected to the shutter timer system, it stays open as long as the shutter is open. This explains why the viewfinder is suddenly blacked out when you take a picture.