Lens

A vital part of a camera light enters through the lens where the photo process begins. can be fixed permanently or interchangeable

Viewfinder

the area on the camera that you look through in order to compose your shot. Not intended as a preview of your photo, but rather a tool to aid you in taking it.

mode dial

allows you to select different options, such as automatic mode, sport mode, or macro mode.

body

the main portion of the camera

shutter release

the button on the camera thats used to snap the picture. it opens and closes the shutter, allowing the necessary light and info to enter the camera

aperture

affects the images exposure by changing the diameter of the lens opening, which controls the amt. of light reaching the image sensor

image sensor

converts the optical image to an electrical signal, which is then sent to your memory card

LCD screen

found on the back of the body and can vary in size. on DSLRs, the LCD is mainly for viewing photos after shooting

flash

on-board flash provides a bit of extra lighting during dim light situations

focus ring

a ring typically found on the lens that allows manual control of the cameras focus

exposure compensation button

if you wanna control the aperture you have to hold this button. if not in manual mode, button allows you to adjust exposure composition- make image brighter or darker

flash button

this button will trigger the pop-up flash " lightning bolt" symbol

lens release button

press this button to unlock the lens mount and detach the lens by rotating it