Digital photography is the process of creating images using a digital camera, which records pictures as data onto a memory card instead of film. It offers immediate feedback and easy sharing of images compared to traditional film photography.
Key Characteristics / Core Concepts
- Image Sensor: Captures light and converts it into digital data (pixels).
- Image Processing: Software within the camera adjusts settings like exposure and white balance.
- File Formats: Images are saved in formats like JPEG, RAW, or TIFF, each with different levels of compression and data preservation.
- Resolution: Measured in megapixels (MP), indicating image detail; higher MP generally means larger prints.
- Digital Image Editing: Software tools to refine images after capture, adjusting brightness, contrast, colors and more.
How It Works / Its Function
Digital cameras use an image sensor (CCD or CMOS) to capture light. This light is converted into electrical signals, processed, and recorded as a digital file on a memory card. The file can then be viewed, edited, and shared digitally.
Examples
- Taking a picture of a landscape with a smartphone camera.
- Capturing a portrait using a DSLR camera.
- Shooting product photos for an online store with a studio setup.
Why is it Important? / Significance
Digital photography is ubiquitous due to its convenience and affordability. It’s crucial for various applications – from personal memories to professional work, impacting journalism, advertising, art, and more. The immediate feedback and ease of editing are also major advantages.
Related Concepts
- Image Editing
- Digital Imaging
- Photography Lighting
Digital photography offers immediate gratification and unparalleled editing capabilities, making it a transformative technology.