35mm SLR cameras
35mm SLR cameras are single-lens reflex cameras using 35mm film, featuring a mirror that reflects light from the lens to an optical viewfinder for accurate framing and focusing through the taking lens. They revolutionized photography by combining the precision of reflex viewing with the compact…
Key facts
- First appeared
- 1936
- Category
- technology
- Problem solved
- Allowed photographers to see exactly what the lens sees at the moment of exposure, overcoming parallax error and dim viewfinders in rangefinder and twin-lens reflex cameras, while supporting the compact 35mm format for high-speed shooting and portability.
- Platforms
- 35mm film, Manual operation, Electronic controls (later models)
Related technologies
Notable users
- Pentax
- Minolta
- Canon
- professional photojournalists
- Nikon