Photography Vocabulary

Photography Terms: Quick Definitions

Camera Terms: Quick Definitions

TermDefinition
Metering ModesMethods used by the camera to measure the brightness of a scene.
Drive ModesSettings that control the camera’s shooting behavior, such as single or burst mode.
Focus ModesOptions for how the camera focuses, including manual, single, and continuous focus.
Picture StylesPreset settings that adjust the color, contrast, and sharpness of images.
File FormatsTypes of files in which images can be saved, such as JPEG or RAW.
Exposure MeterA tool that measures the amount of light in a scene to determine the correct exposure.
Hot ShoeA mounting point on the top of a camera for attaching external accessories like a flash.
ViewfinderThe part of the camera you look through to compose and focus your shot.
Focal LengthThe distance between the lens and the image sensor when the subject is in focus.
ShutterA device that opens and closes to expose the camera sensor to light.
Half-PressPressing the shutter button halfway to lock focus and exposure before taking a photo.
Focal LockLocking the focus on a subject, allowing you to recompose the shot without losing focus.
Shutter SpeedThe length of time the camera’s shutter is open, exposing light to the sensor.
ApertureThe opening in a lens through which light passes to enter the camera.
ISOThe sensitivity of the camera’s sensor to light.
Sensor PlaneThe surface inside the camera where the image is captured.
Focal PlaneThe plane where the image is in sharp focus.
Zoom LensA lens with a variable focal length, allowing you to zoom in and out.
Digital ZoomA feature that crops and enlarges the image digitally, rather than using the lens.
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