The Parts of a Camera and Their Functions

Photographs enable us to capture events and moments in time and preserve these for years. This is made possible by the use of photo Cameras. A Camera is a technological device for obtaining photographic images of objects of interest.

This device is made up of three basic elements: the mechanical element (the Camera body itself), the optical element (the Lens), and the chemical element (the Film [although there are also digital cameras that don't make use of the traditional film]). All the other numerous parts and components that make up a camera simply function to support or enhance any of the above mentioned core functions.

Listed below are 15 functional components of a Camera, following which I will explain the function of 10 of them.

1. The Camera Body 2. Lens 3. Film 4. Viewfinder 5. The Shutter 6. Aperture 7. Shutter Release Button 8. Shutter Curtains 9. Shutter Speed Control Knob 10. Film Cavity 11. Film Rewind Knob 12. Film Sprockets 13. Flash Shoe (Accessory Jack) 14. Focusing Ring 15. Self - Timer Button

(1) The Camera IP Body: All the internal mechanical, optical, and chemical parts of a camera are held together by the Camera body. This serves to protect these very sensitive parts. The Camera body also serves as a framework against which the other parts of the Camera articulate to function properly.