The Viewfinder is one of the most important parts of a camera. It is the lens you look through to see your shot. It can be referred to as the photographer’s mirror to the world.

If you are buying a new camera, it’s important that it has a viewfinder that suits your needs. This article will offer information on what a viewfinder is and how to find the one that’s best for you.

What are Viewfinders?

Viewfinders are normally located on the top part of the camera. They help you frame and compose your photos. They offer more detailed views than an LED screen.

What are the Various Types of Viewfinders?

There are two types of viewfinders available, the electronic viewfinder and the Optical Viewfinder. Here’s some information about both.

Electronic Viewfinder

The electronic viewfinder shows you exactly what the sensor sees so you get a live version of what you are about to shoot. If you change your settings, they will be automatically updated in the viewfinder so you can see how the picture will come out.

The viewfinder works by registering the light that comes in via a sensor. The sensor processes the scene and sends it to the viewfinder’s display. It produces an electronic representation that allows you to see the exposure settings.

Optical Viewfinder

An optical viewfinder is built with a system of mirrors and prisms so you can see what the lens of the camera is seeing. But it won’t show the effects of the settings. However, it will display the settings information and focus points, so you won’t have to take your eye off the viewfinder when you’re focusing and taking your shot.

The viewfinder lets light in through the lens which hits a mirror that sits in front of the sensor. The angle of the mirror causes the light to bounce towards a pentaprism. The pentaprism directs it toward the eyepiece to show the scene in front of the lens.

Optical viewfinders are found on most DSLR cameras.

Pros and Cons

Both electronic and optical viewfinders come with their share of pros and cons. Here are some to consider.

Electronic Viewfinder Pros:

• All changes are shown in the viewfinder.

• The photographer gets all the information they need to focus, frame, and expose the image. Some may even come with a histogram.

Electronic Viewfinder Cons:

• The viewfinders take up a considerable amount of battery life.

• There is a refresh rate that can slow you down when you are trying to shoot.

Optical Viewfinder Pros:

• It provides an unaltered view of the actual scene.

• It doesn’t use any battery power.

Optical Viewfinder Cons:

• A mirror goes up when you take the picture which will result in a blank view on the viewfinder.

• You don’t get to see how the final product will look before you take your photo.

Which is Better Optical or Electronic?

Both optical and electronic viewfinders come with their share of pros and cons. The one you choose will depend on your personal situation.

For example, if you take a lot of action photography, you may prefer an optical viewfinder because there is no lag between taking photos. If you shoot often in low light, an electronic viewfinder may be better because it tends to increase brightness.

Which Eye Do I Use to Look Through a Viewfinder?

Most photographers will look through a viewfinder with their dominant eye. So, if they are right-handed, they will look through the viewfinder with their right eye. If they are left-handed, they will look through with their left eye.

Can I Add a Viewfinder to My Camera?

Most cameras have viewfinders. These include DSLRs, film cameras, and a majority of mirrorless and compact models. However, some do not.

If your camera does not have a viewfinder and you wish to add one, you can attach it to the camera via the hot shoe.

What is the Difference Between a Viewfinder and an LCD Screen?

Both a viewfinder and an LCD screen will give you a representation of your image. However, the LCD digital representation will look more like an image you would see on your TV while your viewfinder will provide a more realistic view.

The viewfinder will also cut down on glare and give you a steadier hold on your camera so you can get better peripheral vision when you shoot.

The viewfinder is one of the most important components of a camera. Now that you know what to look for, you can find one that works best for you. Which will you be choosing when you’re camera shopping?

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