The Camera

Camera is the most basic tool of a photographer.

It is a device that holds a film (photosensitive material) in absolute darkness at a fixed place.

It has a lens, through which light will pass and forms a image on the film, when the photographer presses the button. It also has a shutter mechanism that allows light to pass through a small hole or aperture and strike on film when you press the button to take a picture.

Obviously, for a good picture the film must be exposed to the proper image with right amount of light for the right duration depending on the sensitivity of the film.

Most cameras provide control over both mechanism (aperture and shutter speed) for controlling the quantum of light striking the film when you press the button...

1. duration for which the shutter opens and exposes the film to light
2. size of the aperture to control the amount of light that reaches the film in one go

The type and position of the lens from the decides what will be written. The type of lens decides what part of the view / subject in front of it is visible to the film. The position of the lens controls the sharpness of the picture - also referred to as the focus.

Modern cameras come equipped with excellent auto-focus systems which are able to very accurately focus on the subject and deliver sharp images. Some also provide a manual override so that the photographer may focus manually. If the focus is not properly set the picture will unclear hazy or blurred.

Besides, this the camera also has a viewfinder that allows you to see what the camera will record when you press the button.

Photography - The Balancing Act

The art of photography is all about maintaining a balance between the sensitivity of the film, speed of the shutter, size of the aperture and composition of the picture.

For eg.

• Reducing the size of the aperture reduces the amount light reaching the film, but it helps in improving the depth of field.
• Light on the film can be increased by increase the duration of exposure (reducing shutter speed) but then will the subject remain steady for that much duration.
• With slower shutter speeds, you require a camera stand to avoid shaking of the camera at the time of exposure.

Every little tweaking of any of the aspects of the photograph has an impact on the end picture. We shall discuss more on these benefits and drawbacks later. We shall discuss how to overcome the drawbacks.