• SLR and dSLR cameras record images differently.Photographer & Camera image by Studio Pookini from Fotolia.com
  
  SLR, or Single Lens Reflex cameras use a mirror to reflect light onto a pentaprism, which allows the image to be seen through the viewfinder. This technology gives users the ability to view a picture as the camera lens sees it. Originally, SLR cameras captured images onto 35 mm film; now, the dSLR, or Digital Single Lens Reflex camera has grown in poularity. These two differ in how they record images; SLR records images onto film, while the dSLR records images onto a sensor which saves images as data files on your camera's memory card. By eliminating film processing and advancing the quality of photographs, the the dSLR cameras have become the trend.
  
  

Body

• The camera's body controls all functions of the camera.slr camera image by leafy from Fotolia.com
  
  The body of a SLR or dSLR camera are typically heavier than standard point-and-shoot cameras. The body of the camera is the central component, where the dynamics of a photograph, such as ISO, shutter speed, and aperture are controlled. Most all camera settings and functions can be viewed and changed on the body of the camera. Often times dSLR's are sold with body and lens separate, since the lenses are removable.
  
  

Lens

• The lens of a camera magnifies the image. Lenses for dSLR cameras are attached to the body of the camera and are sold by focal length in millimeters and f-stop increments. The focal length size of a lens, measured in millimeters, will determine the amount of magnification possible. The larger the focal length, 300 mm and above, the more the lens allows subjects to be captured in detail from far distances. F-stop, the ratio of the lens diameter to the focal length of the lens, measures a camera's aperture. Aperture is the size of the lens opening, which determines how much light is allowed to pass through the lens. Other types of lenses that exist are macro, prime, telephoto zoom, and wide angle.
  
  

Flash

• Mount an external flash to achieve different lighting.flash image by Magalice from Fotolia.com
  
  Most SLR or dSLR's come with a built-in flash. Flashes illuminate and highlight photograph subjects, enhancing the quality of photographs. External flashes, which attach to your camera can be purchased to add variation, creativity, or quality.
  
  

LCD Screen

• Manage camera settings and access photographs from the LCD screen.Lezioni di fotografia image by tulla from Fotolia.com
  
  LCD is an acronym for liquid crystal display. It is the control center of the camera, allowing you to view menu options, adjust camera settings, such as ISO, file format, shutter speed, aperture, or focus. Other capabilities include browsing, editing, deleting, or viewing a photograph's details.