Photographics 10, Photography 20, 30 and Graphic Arts 20, 30

Module 3: Types of Cameras (Core)

Suggested time: 5-8 hours
Level: Introductory
Prerequisite: None

Foundational Objectives

To practise safety and care in the use of photographic equipment and chemicals.
To develop skills related to the use of photographic equipment.

Common Essential Learnings Foundational Objectives

To develop an understanding of the various styles of cameras that are available. (CCT)
To use a wide range of vocabulary related to the field of photography. (COM)
To gain experience and demonstrate skills in the use of photographic equipment. (TL)

Learning Objectives	Notes
3.1 To research the development of early cameras. (IL)	Have the students find information, pictures or examples of old cameras and follow the development of cameras from simple boxes to fully electronic digital cameras. Have students collect photographs from early photographers and evaluate the technical details in the photographs.
3.2 To explain the operation of a simple box camera. (COM)	A section view of a simple camera and how it operates will help to illustrate the light path through a simple lens to a focal plane inside the box camera. Old box cameras operate with f /16 or f /22 lens aperture at approximately 1/125 for ISO 125 speed film. The disposable cameras currently available operate on the same principles as the old cameras. Used disposable cameras may be available from camera stores for use in a class demonstration. An excellent project is to have students make their own camera. There are a number of publications as well as websites that have instructions on how to build a simple pin-hole camera that can produce excellent results. This will provide students with a clear understanding of how a camera operates. This exercise will also provide students with an understanding of the print making process. Consult the bibliography for resources related to this project.
3.3 To explain the operating characteristics of a range finder camera.	This type of camera may have an adjustable shutter speed, a focusing method, an adjustable aperture and a viewfinder to aim the camera. Have students list the advantages and disadvantages of using this type of camera, including the parallax effect.
3.4 To demonstrate the operating characteristics of a single lens reflex (SLR) camera. (TL)	List the advantages and disadvantages of single lens reflex (SLR) cameras. Have students: discuss the reasons for the popularity of 35 mm SLRs. list the accessories available for SLR cameras and compare those options to other camera types. If a medium format SLR is available, compare it to a 35 mm SLR.
3.5 To explain the operating characteristics of an instant print camera. (COM)	The Polaroid corporation used to produce cameras and film for instant prints. The Polaroid film pack included the chemistry needed to process the print when it was exposed and removed from the camera. Professional photographers use this type of film and adapter to check studio lighting for still life or advertising situations. Refer to Module 24 in this guide. Discuss the various situations where instant print capabilities could be used. Have the students discuss the advantages and disadvantages of instant print cameras. (CCT)
3.6 To identify the operation and components of a view camera. (TL)	Discuss the various formats for view cameras and the advantages and disadvantages for each size. If possible, tour a photo studio that has a view camera to see how it is used. Examine the possibilities that the various front lensboard movement settings can create.
3.7 To explain the operating characteristics of a digital camera. (COM)	Modules 8 and 16 cover digital photography in more detail. Mention it here as information regarding camera types. Students need to recognize that in a digital camera light is being recorded electronically rather than chemically. (TL) Discover the advantages and disadvantages of digital cameras.
3.8 To describe the features of a compact camera. (CCT)	Disposable cameras and small format (35mm) compacts are snapshot style cameras. These cameras are inexpensive, very popular and may be designed to be totally self-contained with built in features such as an automatic electronic flash that selects its own flash intensity. The electronics may also include automatic metering for light and aperture settings. Discuss advantages and disadvantages of compact cameras.