Do You Know .. What is SLR, DSLR, and DSLT ??
Single Lens Reflex Camera (SLR) the Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera (DSLR) is a camera that uses a reflex from the mirror’s reflection. It is the action of the mirror that flips upwards when taking a picture that allows light to travel through the lens until it reaches the sensor. This enables the photographer to view through the lens with the exact object to be captured, however contrary with viewfinder cameras, the image seen could be notably different from what will be captured. Single Lens Reflex and Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera are same in a mechanism, the difference between the two is that DSLR store images digitally and has more advanced features while the SLR tend to be conservative and uses film for image storage.
Cross-section view of a DSLR and its corresponding parts
1_ Camera Lens
2_ Reflex mirror
3_ Focal-plane shutter
4_ Image sensor
5_ Matte focusing screen
6_ Condenser lens
7_ Pentaprism/pentamirror
8_ Viewfinder eyepiece
Image source
DSLT, on the other hand, stands for Digital Single Lens Translucent. The translucent mirrors are fixed, unlike the DSLRs. These allow major light (70%) to pass through the lens and onto the imaging sensor while deflecting a small amount of light (30%) up to the phase detection Auto Focus sensor. This is cheaper to produce compared to DSLR. The main advantage of DSLT is that the viewfinder image never blacks out giving it an increase of frame. Its ability for speed shooting and snappy autofocus is way better than the DSLR, but like any other, it also has drawbacks. The disadvantage shows lack of brightness and clarity due to the replacement of an optical finder into the use of electronic finder. The diminution in the amount of light that hits the sensor results in low-light performance.
Features usually found in DSLR and DSLT
#Dust_Reduction Systems ---> DSLR is prone to dust due to changing of lenses. Dust enters the camera body that adheres to the image sensor resulting in reduced image quality. Cleaning the sensor is a must and techniques on various cleaning exist like the use of a cotton swab or compressed air blowing. Some are sent for camera service and other is cleaned by its users alone. Different manufacturers implement and utilize their own version of dust abatement. Types of dust reduction system include usage of piezo crystal to vibrate a filter which covers the sensor and second is a type that moves the actual sensor.
#Mode_Dial ---> Most of the digital cameras generally have mode dials to access the standard camera or automatic settings. Manual modes usually include (M) Manual, (P) Program, (S) Shutter priority, (A) Aperture priority. Automatic modes include Auto, Action, Portrait, Night Portrait, Landscape, Macro. But this may vary depending on the cameras advancement.
#Interchangeable_Lenses ---> This ability has made DSLR popular among other cameras. It allows the user to select and attached specialized lenses for a specified photographic need. Each brand has unique specific lens mount and uses a lens with the same brand but there are other independent manufacturers that make lenses for a variety of different lens mount and this is possible with the use of lens adapters. The lenses may vary in features, specifications, and types.
#HD_Video Capture - DSLRs offer recording high definition motion video and it often referred and called as HDSLR or DSLR video shooter. HDSLRs limitation points to lacking one or more video functions found on standard camcorders, such as autofocus and powered zoom.
#Live_Preview - This feature allows the display screen to be used as a viewfinder, providing a means of preview before taking the photograph. The display screen can be either a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an electronic viewfinder (EVF).
Larger sensor sizes and better image quality
Depth-of-field control
A wider angle of view >> Image source
Photography is by far one of the most loved hobbies of all time. Since then, taking pictures has become a form of art, hobby and even a tool for documentation. We crave to capture beautiful scenery, emotions and other unique subjects to photograph. In relation, because of this need and hunger for a best image captured result, this device has improved.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Which one of this camera do you carry?
Which one do you prefer to buy?
Whether your reason for buying a camera is for your personal hobby or for professional use, these cameras can surely satisfy your needs and wants. After all, you brought that camera for that purpose.
There are various kinds of DSLR and DSLT cameras in the market, and if you ask me which one will best suit you, I’d say it will depend on your budget and preference. What’s important is this, don't just go for a device because it is the best but rather consider your own need, your reasons and of course your financial resources.