A DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) camera is a type of digital camera that uses interchangeable lenses and a mirror system. The term “DSLR” differentiates this type of camera from other digital cameras that don’t have interchangeable lenses or a reflex mirror system.
Key Differences Between DSLR and DSLR Camera
While DSLR and DSLR camera refer to the same type of camera, there are some minor differences in how the terms are used:
- DSLR refers to the type of camera technology and mechanics (such as the reflex mirror system). It’s a category of cameras.
- DSLR camera refers to an actual camera model or product. For example, the Canon EOS 80D and Nikon D3500 are DSLR cameras.
So DSLR describes the technology, while DSLR camera describes a specific make and model. When talking about DSLR technology and mechanics, DSLR is more appropriate. When referring to a particular DSLR camera product, using DSLR camera is more precise.
DSLR Camera Mechanics
DSLR cameras get their name from their internal mirror system. Here’s how it works:
- Light enters through the lens and strikes the mirror inside the camera.
- The mirror reflects the light up into the optical viewfinder, allowing you to frame and compose your shot.
- When you press the shutter button, the mirror flips up, allowing light to hit the camera’s image sensor which captures the image.
- After the exposure, the mirror flips back down so the viewfinder image is available again.
This mirror mechanism provides the “reflex” in single-lens reflex. This system allows DSLRs to provide through-the-lens optical viewing from the same lens that captures the image. This gives the user an accurate representation of what the lens sees. The optical viewfinder also provides a crisp, minimal lag viewing experience compared to electronic viewfinders.
Key Features of DSLR Cameras
Here are some of the defining features of DSLR cameras:
- Interchangeable lenses – DSLRs allow you to change lenses, from wide angles to telephotos. This flexibility lets you use specialized lenses for different photography genres.
- Large image sensors – The big sensor sizes, like APS-C and full frame, provide improved image quality and depth of field control.
- Optical viewfinders – DSLRs use pentaprisms and mirrors to let you look directly through the lens with no digital display lag.
- Fast autofocus – Phase detection AF with dedicated AF sensors provide fast and accurate autofocus, especially for moving subjects.
- High ISO ranges – Having ISOs from 100 to 25,600 or greater allow for flexibility in low-light photography.
- High burst rates – DSLRs can shoot continuously at 5-10 frames per second or more, helping capture fast action.
- Manual controls – DSLRs offer full manual exposure controls as well as aperture and shutter priority modes.
Differences Between DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras
The other main type of interchangeable lens digital camera besides the DSLR is the mirrorless camera. Here’s how mirrorless cameras differ from DSLRs:
| DSLR | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
| Uses mirror system and optical viewfinder | No mirror, electronic viewfinder only |
| Phase detect AF sensor | Contrast detect AF |
| Larger camera body | Smaller, lighter camera body |
| Lower video capabilities typically | Higher quality video common |
There are advantages and disadvantages to both DSLR and mirrorless cameras. DSLRs still tend to have an edge for sports, wildlife and other action photography thanks to their fast phase detect autofocus. But mirrorless cameras are closing the gap while also providing excellent image quality in more compact camera bodies.
History of DSLR Cameras
DSLR technology evolved from film SLR cameras. Here are some of the major milestones in DSLR history:
- 1991 – Kodak releases the first digital SLR, the DCS-100. It was built on a Nikon F3 body and had 1.3 megapixel sensor.
- 1999 – Nikon D1 launched as the first fully integrated DSLR with a 2.7 megapixel sensor.
- 2002 – Canon introduces the EOS 300D, the first sub-$1000 digital SLR for consumers.
- 2008 – Canon releases the 50D, one of the first with 15+ megapixel resolution.
- 2012 – Nikon D800 offers one of the earliest 36MP full frame sensors.
- 2014 – Pentax K-S1 introduces LED illumination lights on a DSLR body.
- 2020 – Canon debuts the EOS R5, providing in-body stabilization to their mirrorless line.
While mirrorless cameras have shaken up the industry, DSLRs continue to be popular among enthusiasts and professionals for important applications like sports photography. The DSLR retains its advantages in optical viewfinders and rapid-fire burst shooting modes.
Common Types of DSLR Cameras
There are a few sub-categories of DSLR cameras oriented toward different groups of photographers.
Entry-level DSLRs
These inexpensive DSLRs appeal to beginner photographers getting started with interchangeable lens cameras. They have simple controls and guides to teach the basics. Examples include the Nikon D3500, Canon T8i and Pentax K-70.
Enthusiast DSLRs
The mid-range DSLRs add more direct controls, faster burst rates and superior autofocus compared to entry-level models. They appeal to serious hobbyists. Popular models include the Nikon D7500, Canon 90D and Pentax K-3 Mark III.
Professional Full Frame DSLRs
Geared for professional photographers, these high-end DSLRs have full frame sensors, incredibly fast burst rates and durable construction. The top models from Canon, Nikon and Sony dominate this category.
Conclusion
DSLR cameras use a unique reflex mirror system that facilitates through-the-lens optical viewing. This, combined with features like interchangeable lenses, fast autofocus and manual controls enable DSLRs to capture top quality photos and handle demanding shooting situations. While mirrorless cameras now challenge DSLRs, the instantaneous view and rapid fire shooting of DSLRs continues to appeal to photographers seeking to freeze the action.