Appendixes
122
Glossary
Flash
A speed light that helps to create adequate exposure in low-light
conditions.
Focal length
The distance from the middle of the lens to its focal point (in
millimeters). Longer focal lengths result in narrower angles of view
and the subject is magnified. Shorter focal lengths result in wider
angles of view.
Image sensor
The physical part of a digital camera that contains a photosite for
each pixel in the image. Each photosite records the brightness of
the light that strikes it during an exposure. Common sensor types
are CCD (Charge-coupled Device) and CMOS (Complementary
Metal Oxide Semiconductor).
ISO sensitivity
The sensitivity of the camera to light, based on the equivalent film
speed used in a film camera. At higher ISO sensitivity settings,
the camera uses a higher shutter speed, which can reduce blur
caused by camera shake and low light. However, images with
high sensitivity are more susceptible to noise.
DPOF (Digital Print Order Format)
A format for writing printing information, such as selected images
and number of prints, on a memory card. DPOF-compatible
printers, sometimes available at photo shops, can read the
information from the card for convenient printing.
EV (Exposure Value)
All the combinations of the camera’s shutter speed and lens
aperture that result in the same exposure.
EV Compensation
This feature allows you to quickly adjust the exposure value
measured by the camera, in limited increments, to improve the
exposure of your photos. Set the EV compensation to -1.0 EV to
adjust the value one step darker and 1.0 EV to one step brighter.
Exif (Exchangeable Image File Format)
A specification to define an image file format for digital cameras
created by the Japan Electronic Industries Development
Association (JEIDA).
Exposure
The amount of light allowed to reach the camera’s sensor.
Exposure is controlled by a combination of the shutter speed, the
aperture value, and ISO sensitivity.
