Chapter 01: Camera and sensor types
IN THIS LESSON
introduction to digital cameras and different sensor types.
A camera is not just a camera these days. You have lots of choices and technology inside the cameras, probably without not knowing about them. In this article, I will tell you about the different types of cameras you can buy and the most important technologies inside them. From my point of view, it is important that you know about it when doing photography. The last article is a glossary where I have explained typical words and expressions that are used in photography.
The smartphone camera is something you probably is familiar with already. This camera is the overconfident cousin who shows up to family dinner bragging about “computational photography." Strengths of the smartphone camera are that it fits in your pocket, takes surprisingly good photos and it makes you believe you are a pro. Weaknesses are the lens is the size of a lentil. Physics is not impressed. The image sensor on these cameras is rather small as well, and these small sensors have a fair share of clear limitations.
The smartphone sensors size is like a postage stamp that went through the wash. It's the tiny chihuahua that thinks it’s a wolf. Its power is that it has computational wizardry that screams “FAKE IT ‘TIL YOU MAKE IT.”
The mirrorless camera is the trendy millennial who quit their job to become a digital nomad. Strengths are that they are lightweight, fast, modern, mirrorless, and packed with tech. Weaknesses are battery life that screams “I’m tired” after 300 pictures.
The APS-C cameras are the seasoned veteran who still insists vinyl sounds better. This sensor type is also called a crop sensor. These cameras are rugged, reliable, has optical viewfinder that feels like looking into the soul of the universe. Strengths are that they are lighter, at least compared to full frame, have more reach and gives great value. Weaknesses are that some of them are heavy enough to double as a self-defence tool. The sensor is smaller than full frame, but compensates with enthusiasm, crop factor, and a surprising amount of self‑esteem. The sensor often says things like: “You don’t need full frame… unless you want it.” The APS‑C sensor is the Goldilocks zone, not too big, not too small. They are the middle child who has their life together. The sensor has extra reach for wildlife and sports, but without needing a forklift for your gear.
The micro four thirds (m4/3 or MFT) acts like the minimalist who lives in a tiny house but has everything perfectly optimized. Strengths are they have small lenses, small bodies, huge ecosystem and are shockingly capable. Weaknesses are sensor size that makes full-frame shooters raise an eyebrow.
The micro four thirds image sensors are like if someone cut a full-frame sensor in half because it was too big for carry-on. It is the efficient minimalist who folds their clothes using the Marie Kondo method. An advantage is that the lenses are so small you can carry an entire kit in a lunchbox.
Full frame cameras have the personality of the gym bro of cameras; big, powerful, and always flexing. Strengths are big sensor, great low-light performance and shallow depth of field that makes everything look cinematic. Weaknesses are that they are expensive enough to make your wallet file a complaint.
The full frame image sensor is equivalent of the "old" 35mm physical movies that someone still holds on to. The sensor is like the gym bro who insists you *must* shoot full frame to be a “real” photographer. An upside is they have a good low-light performance and creamy background blur that makes everything look like a perfume ad.
Last but not least are medium format camera. They are the wealthy great-aunt that is an art collector who drinks single‑origin espresso and only shoots in natural light. Strengths for this camera type are the enormous sensors, insane details and a dynamic range so wide it needs its own zip code. Weaknesses are that these cameras costs more than a used car. And they are slower than a DSLR after leg day.
The medium format image sensor is like a dinner plate compared to the others’ coasters. They are the aristocrat who only shoots at sunrise, only in RAW, and only for clients named Lorenzo. The sensors have details so sharp you can zoom in and see someone’s regrets.
An image sensor is the electronic component inside a digital camera that captures light and turns it into a digital image. It is essentially the camera’s “film” but made of silicon instead of celluloid. You may say the above explanations is like putting your brain through a washing, it is a necessary part for you to understand cameras.