The term SLR is an acronym for single lens reflex, SLR cameras are so named because of the technology that they use. SLR cameras use a mirror that is placed behind the camera lens to reflect light directly towards the viewfinder while composing an image. In doing so the photographer is allowed to see exactly what image will be captured by the film or digital imaging system. As a user, when you release the shutter, the mirror sways rapidly out of the way, allowing light from the lens to travel in a straight line to the sensor while temporarily blacking out the viewfinder. The viewfinder in SLR cameras integrates a pentaprism that rotates the incoming image around so that you can view it right side up and sends it into the focusing screen from where you view it.
SLR cameras are designed in such a manner that they can accommodate a wide scope of focal lengths which is mostly the reason why these cameras dominate professional photography. These types of cameras give you much creative control over your picture taking. This is because SLR cameras permit you to use interchangeable lenses, have control over shutter and aperture speeds as well as presenting you with the opportunity to be creative with flash and filters.
SLR cameras also give you a chance to choose between manual focus and auto focus. Even though the modern ordinary camera can control a couple of settings in regards to flash and exposure levels, they can be at times superseded.
There are several types of SLR cameras with digital SLR camera being one of them. Digital SLR cameras integrate a live view mode which enables the user to use the LCD to take shots in the same manner as they could with a snapshot camera. In the most basic implementations of these camera types, they generally lock up the mirror with the pentaprism diverting the image to small sensor.
Most SLR cameras come with an inbuilt flash, in some models you could find the red eye reduction included. In the event that your SLR camera’s flash does not provide enough lighting with its flash, you can use a hot shoe that is normally provided to make use of a powerful flash gun that you can buy separately.
SLR cameras provide users with precision by providing them with a viewing image that will be exposed in the negative the same way it is viewed through the lens. Photographers can also see the depth of the field by stopping down to the attached lens aperture enabling them to take good quality photographs with SLR cameras.