What does "SLR" mean with regard to a digital camera?

Answer by  GilFinn (2065)

An SLR (single-lens reflex) refers to a camera that uses a mechanical mirror system and pentaprism to direct light from the lens to an optical and/or LCD viewfinder on the back of the camera body. When the shutter is depressed, the mirror swings up exposing the image to the CCD.

Answer by  Photo (75)

SLR stands for Single Lens Reflex. Light goes through the lens, reflects off a series of mirrors, then hits the viewfinder/eye. The mirror moves out of the way when you snap the shutter so that the light hits the digital sensors instead of reflecting to the viewfinder. That motion is the sound you hear when you take a picture.

Answer by  cashmang (112)

SLR means single lens reflex. The single lens part means that there is only one lens that routes both to the film or sensor and to the viewfinder, whereas some older cameras had one lens for the film and another for the viewfinder. The reflex refers to the mirror that bounces the image to your eye in the viewfinder.

Answer by  SamDesouza (67)

'SLR' stands for Single Lens Reflex. This means that the camera has only one (compound) lens (as opposed to a stereoscopic or Twin Lens Reflex camera) and also that it has a 'Reflex Mirror' which allows the user to see through the viewfinder almost exactly the same image as will be recorded by the camera.

Answer by  decomom (923)

SLR stands for single lens refraction. This would mean that it is not a simply an all-in-one point and shoot type camera. An SLR camera has removable lens that can be chosen for a given situation. Some have very high zoom capability and others are used for close-ups. An SLR camera is for a serious amateur or a professional.