Photo 1: How Does a Camera Work?
Photo 1: How Does a Camera Work?
Grade Level:
5–8
Student Level:
Middle School
How are all cameras alike? Why do some photographs intrigue us more than others? In this interdisciplinary pair of programs, students are introduced to the science and art behind this extremely popular form of visual communication. Accompanying materials include in-program activity guides as well as teaching extensions for getting students launched on their own photographic projects.
These programs may be scheduled individually.
In Part One: How Does a Camera Work? students dissect and diagram a simple disposable camera to gain an understanding of light energy, optics, and the shared components all cameras use to record an image.
Some supplies are required.
Program Format:
- Open with a class discussion on different types of cameras familiar to students (digital vs. cameras with film).
- Discuss significance of camera parts (mechanical: camera body, optical: lens, and image recording: film).
- Students dissect disposable cameras, working in small groups.
- Students diagram the front and back of the camera's interior, while examining components such as the lens, the viewfinder and the capacitor.
- Students examine how the flash functions, and answer remaining questions.
Objectives:
- Students will learn that a non-digital camera consists of three basic parts: an optical component (lens), a mechanical component (camera body) and a chemical component (film).
- Students will identify the interior and exterior elements through dissection of a disposable 35mm camera and learn the function of the lens, aperture, shutter, shutter release and viewfinder.
- Students will learn how to handle and operate a camera safely.