DSLR

Most digital single-lens reflex cameras (digital SLR or DSLR) are digital cameras that use a
mechanical mirror system and pentaprism to direct light from the lens to an optical viewfinder on
the back of the camera.

The basic operation of a DSLR is as follows: for viewing purposes, the mirror reflects the light
coming through the attached lens upwards at a 90 degree angle. It is then reflected three times by
the roof pentaprism, rectifying it for the photographer's eye. (Note that the diagram below
incorrectly shows a non-roof pentaprism.) During exposure, the mirror assembly swings upward,
the aperture narrows (if stopped down, or set smaller than wide open), and a shutter opens,
allowing the lens to project light onto the image sensor. A second shutter then covers the sensor,
ending the exposure, and the mirror lowers while the shutter resets. The period that the mirror is
flipped up is referred to as "viewfinder blackout". A fast-acting mirror and shutter is preferred so
as not to delay an action photo.

All of this happens automatically over a period of milliseconds, with cameras designed to do this
3–10 times per second.

DSLRs are often preferred by professional still photographers because they allow an accurate
preview of framing close to the moment of exposure, and because DSLRs allow the user to
choose from a variety of interchangeable lenses. Most DSLRs also have a function that allows
accurate preview of depth of field.

Many professionals also prefer DSLRs for their larger sensors compared to most compact
digitals. DSLRs have sensors which are generally closer in size to the traditional film formats
that many current professionals started out using. These large sensors allow for similar depths of
field and picture angle to film formats, as well as their comparatively high signal to noise ratio.

The term DSLR generally refers to cameras that resemble 35 mm format cameras, although some
medium format cameras are technically DSLRs.