DSLR : Digital Single Lens Reflex cameras are SLR cameras with Digital Imaging Sensors.
DSLR's have built-in mirrors (Reflex) so that the image you see bounces up to the viewfinder. Based on the principle of what-you-see-is-what-you-get, hence by using the viewfinder a photographer can precisely compose the image of the subject being shot.
How do DSLR cameras work?
The reflex design is the basic difference between a DSLR and other digital cameras. In this design, the light travels through the lens to a mirror which sends the image to either the viewfinder or the image sensor.
Below is an image of the SLR cross section (image courtesy of Wikipedia)
DSLR's have built-in mirrors (Reflex) so that the image you see bounces up to the viewfinder. Based on the principle of what-you-see-is-what-you-get, hence by using the viewfinder a photographer can precisely compose the image of the subject being shot.
How do DSLR cameras work?
The reflex design is the basic difference between a DSLR and other digital cameras. In this design, the light travels through the lens to a mirror which sends the image to either the viewfinder or the image sensor.
Below is an image of the SLR cross section (image courtesy of Wikipedia)
The different components are as follows :-
1. Lens
2. Reflex Mirror
3. Shutter
4. Image Sensor
5. Matte focussing screen
6. Condenser lens
7. Pentaprism/Pentamirror
8. Viewfinder
Step 1 : Viewing the image on the viewfinder
The light passes through the Lens(#1) and is intercepted by the Reflex mirror(#2) sitting at a 45 degree angle. The light is then reflected horizontally through a Condenser Lens(#6) and it enters the Pentaprism. The light then reflects of the prism walls such that they fall on the eye piece/viewfinder(#8).
This how the photographer sees the image which will be captured.
Step 2 : Capturing the photo
When you take a picture, the reflex mirror(#2) swings up and the shutter(#3) moves up when the shutter button is pressed. This allows the light to pass through and fall on image sensor(#4). The shutter can be kept open as long as it is required for the light to fall on the image sensor (We will discuss in detail when we talk about shutter speed) to capture the image. Once done the shutter closes and the mirror drops to its original angle and positions itself back to reflect light into the viewfinder.
