Understanding the SLR Camera
The most important technical step to a good print is a good negative. The key to a good negative is correct film exposure.
Three variables control film exposure:
- Lens Opening
- Shutter Speed
- Film Speed
Lens Opening:
- The larger the opening, the greater amount of light that reaches the film.
- The size of the lens opening is measured by f-stops. ( The larger the f-stop, the smaller the opening )
- The f-stops are as follows:
- f 1.4 ( most light )
- f2
- f 2.8
- f4
- f 5.6
- f8
- f 11
- f 16
- f 22 ( least light )
Shutter Speed:
- The time for which film is exposed to light is controlled by the shutter speed.
- The faster the shutter speed, the shorter the duration of film exposure, and the less light reaches the film.