9 Types of Cameras and Their Uses

Consumers can choose from a variety of digital cameras to capture any type of image. Discover nine distinct varieties.

What Is a Camera?

A camera is a light-sensitive optical device that records a still or moving visual image. In the past, film cameras were the dominant camera technology, reproducing images on photographic film, but most modern cameras are digital cameras, which use a sensor to create high-resolution digital images. Digital cameras come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including smartphone cameras and other portable devices. Cameras are typically made up of an enclosed camera body with an optical viewfinder through which the user sees the image they want to record.

The aperture in the camera allows light to enter the camera body and record the image on film or a digital sensor. Other camera functions modify how light is received by the light-sensitive surface: The aperture narrows or widens to allow different amounts of light to pass through, while different lenses focus the light to sharpen image quality, and shutter speed measures and determines the duration of light exposure.

The Nine Types of Cameras

There are numerous types of cameras, each with its own set of capabilities and applications. They are as follows:

1. Action cameras, also known as action cams, are small, shockproof cameras that capture digital photography and high-definition video while immersed in an action-packed environment. Action cameras can be attached to bicycle helmets, handlebars, and even drones to capture stunning wide-angle images and video; some high-end models connect to smartphones and even record 4K video, which is four times sharper than standard-definition video. While action cameras are tough and versatile, they lack interchangeable lenses and have a short battery life.

2. Bridge cameras: Bridge cameras are ideal for beginners who prefer the simplicity of compact digital cameras but want more control over camera settings. They have a smaller sensor size, an electronic viewfinder, and slower autofocus than compact digital cameras, but they have a larger zoom range, more adjustable settings, and sharper image quality.

3. Compact digital cameras: Also known as point-and-shoot cameras, compact digital cameras are pocket-sized, durable, and simple to use. Compact digital cameras are always in automatic mode, adjusting all of their settings to provide high-quality images with every use. Compact digital cameras have a smaller sensor size than DSLR or mirrorless cameras and use an LCD screen instead of a viewfinder; some models allow you to adjust certain settings but are more expensive.

4. DSLR cameras: DSLR cameras combine the mirror and prism system of SLR cameras, or single-lens reflex cameras, which reflect light onto the sensor, with a digital sensor. A DSLR camera provides the photographer with greater versatility and complete control, including the ability to change lenses and capture a wide range of images, from telephoto lenses for high-speed images to portrait lenses for low-light situations. DSLRs have larger sensors, which come in two sizes: a full-frame sensor (or 35-mm sensor) and a crop sensor (or APS-C sensor), allowing for greater dynamic range than compact digital cameras.

5. Instant cameras: What they lack in image quality, they make up for in price and the tactile pleasure of watching a picture develop in your hand. These retro-style full-frame cameras are incredibly simple to use; simply point and shoot. You will also not require any apps or photo editing software. However, the amount of film you buy limits the number of shots you can take, making them somewhat expensive.

6. Medium-format cameras: The medium-format camera sensor size, which is slightly larger than the 35-mm film frame, produces striking film and digital images with greater dynamic range and more accurate color reproduction. This camera is ideal for professional photographers, particularly those working on images for print media or advertising, but the high cost of their lenses and slow shutter speed make it less suitable for entry-level users.

7. Compact mirrorless cameras: Mirrorless cameras eliminate the mirror and prism element and replace the optical viewfinder's live view with an electronic viewfinder. Mirrorless cameras, which are similar in size to digital cameras, use interchangeable lenses and provide a variety of customized camera settings, such as Wi-Fi image transfer and HDMI video output.

8. Rangefinder cameras: Popular in the mid-twentieth century, rangefinder cameras require the user to view the image through a window at the top of the camera and align two superimposed images by turning the lens to focus on a single image. Rangefinder cameras, which produce high-quality images, are widely available as second-hand purchases, but the technology has a learning curve.

9. 360-degree cameras: 360-degree cameras, which are popular among hobbyists due to their stunning panoramic images, are similar to action cameras in that they both mount on various surfaces and connect to smartphones. 360-degree cameras also employ two wide-angle lenses pointing in opposite directions to connect images to create a full-circle field of view ideal for landscape photography.