System camera

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Nikon F chrome with eyelevel prism and NIKKOR-S Auto 1:1,4 f=5,8cm lens (1959) - an early SLR system camera. Nikon F SLR camera with NIKKOR-S Auto 1,4 f=5,8cm.JPG
Nikon F chrome with eyelevel prism and NIKKOR-S Auto 1:1,4 f=5,8cm lens (1959) – an early SLR system camera.
A Nikon F body and viewfinder Nikon F viewfinder DSC 6506.jpg
A Nikon F body and viewfinder
Nikon F with interchangeable photomic TTL metering prism Nikon-ftn-400.jpg
Nikon F with interchangeable photomic TTL metering prism

A system camera or camera body is a camera with interchangeable components that constitutes the core of a system. Early representatives include Leica I Schraubgewinde (1930), Exakta (1936) and the Nikon F (1959). System cameras are often single-lens reflex (SLR) or twin-lens reflex (TLR) but can also be rangefinder cameras or, more recently, mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras. Voice coil motors (VCMs) or piezoelectric motors are used to control the lens movement to achieve fast and accurate autofocus. [1] [2] These motors move the lens elements to focus the light onto the sensor with high precision. [3]

Systems are usually named for the lens mount, such Nikon F-mount, Canon EF mount, and M42 mount (a non-proprietary mount using a 42 mm × 1 mm screw thread).

Even point-and-shoot cameras usually include a tripod socket. A system camera includes at the very least a camera body and separate, interchangeable lenses, whence the alternative name interchangeable-lens camera (ILC). In addition it often includes:

While some early mechanical interfaces are standardized across brands, optical and electronic interfaces are often proprietary. Hot shoes have a common interface for basic flash functions, but often contain proprietary contacts inside for advanced flashes and data modules.

References

  1. Marchio, Cathy (August 30, 2024). "Everything You Need to Know About Voice Coil Motors". Stanford Magnets. Retrieved October 1, 2024.
  2. "Canon USM vs STM Lenses: What's The Difference?". ExpertPhotography. July 21, 2022. Retrieved August 13, 2025.
  3. USpatent 9134503B2