Lens

One of the most vital parts of a camera. Light enters through the lens. Where the photo process begins. Can be either 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, program mode, sport mode or macro mode

Body

the main portion of the camera

Shutter

Release- the button on the camera that is used to snap the picture. It opens and closes the shutter, allowing the necessary light and information to enter the camera

Aperture

Affects the images exposure by changing the diameter of the lens opening, which controls the amount of light reaching the image sensor

Image sensor

Converts the optional image to an electrotonic signal, which is then sent to your memory

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, provide a bit of extra light during dim, low light situations

focus ring

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

exposure compesation button

to control aperture, you need to hold down this button. If not in manual mode, this button allows you to adjust exposure compensation- make the image brighter or darker while still letting the camera make its own decision about which settings to use

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