Image Sensor
An image sensor is the electronic device in a camera that captures and converts light into digital signals, forming the basis of a digital image.
ISO
ISO, or International Organization for Standardization, is a standard that measures the sensitivity of the image sensor to light. It is used to adjust the camera’s sensitivity to different lighting conditions.
- Low ISO (100–200) = clean image, less noise
- High ISO (1600+) = brighter image but more noise/grain
ISO is one of the 3 main exposure settings (with aperture and shutter speed).
Infinity Focus
Infinity focus refers to setting the lens focus to capture objects at an infinite distance, resulting in sharpness from the subject to the horizon.
Infrared Photography
Infrared photography involves capturing images using infrared light, which is beyond the range of human vision. It creates unique and ethereal images by revealing heat signatures and penetrating atmospheric conditions.
Image Stabilization
Image stabilization is a technology used to reduce camera shake or motion blur, resulting in sharper images. It compensates for small movements by the photographer or vibrations in the camera system.
Intervalometer
An intervalometer is a device or feature in a camera that allows photographers to set timed intervals between consecutive shots, useful for capturing time-lapse sequences or long-exposure series.
Incandescent Light
Incandescent light refers to the light produced by traditional tungsten filament bulbs. It has a warm, yellowish tone and can create a cozy or nostalgic atmosphere in photographs.
Image Overlay
Image overlay is a technique where multiple images are combined or superimposed to create a single composite image. It is often used in post-processing to create double exposures or add creative effects.
Image Resolution
Image resolution refers to the level of detail or clarity in an image, usually measured in pixels per inch (PPI) or dots per inch (DPI). Higher resolution images have more pixels, resulting in sharper and more detailed prints or displays.
Image Noise
Image noise refers to random variations or speckles that can appear in digital images, especially in low-light or high-ISO conditions. It can degrade image quality by reducing sharpness and introducing unwanted artifacts.
Intentional Camera Movement (ICM)
Intentional camera movement is a creative technique where the camera is intentionally moved during a long exposure to create abstract and impressionistic images. It results in blurred and dynamic effects.
In-Camera Processing
In-camera processing refers to the ability of a camera to apply various adjustments or effects to an image directly within the camera, without the need for external software or post-processing.
Inverse Square Law
The inverse square law states that the intensity of light decreases in proportion to the square of the distance from the light source. It is important to understand for controlling light and exposure in photography.
Interchangeable Lens
An interchangeable lens is a lens designed to be attached and detached from a camera body, allowing photographers to use different lenses for various shooting situations or creative effects.
In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
In-body image stabilization is a technology found in some cameras where the image stabilization mechanism is built into the camera body instead of the lens. It provides stabilization benefits with any lens attached to the camera.
Image Editing
Image editing involves modifying and enhancing digital images using software or applications. It includes adjustments to exposure, color, contrast, cropping, and other creative manipulations to improve the visual impact of a photograph.
Instant Camera
An instant camera is a type of camera that produces self-developing prints shortly after capturing an image. It offers immediate gratification and tangible results, reminiscent of the classic Polaroid cameras.
Inverse Lens
An inverse lens, also known as a reverse lens or macro reverse ring, is a technique where a lens is mounted backward on the camera body to achieve extreme close-up magnification. It is a cost-effective alternative to dedicated macro lenses.
Image Cropping
Image cropping is the process of trimming or removing unwanted parts of an image to improve composition, remove distractions, or create a specific aspect ratio. It can be done in-camera or during post-processing.
Image Orientation
Image orientation refers to the rotation or alignment of an image, either in portrait (vertical) or landscape (horizontal) format. It affects the visual impact and composition of a photograph.
Infinity Focus
Infinity focus is the focus setting used for very far subjects like landscapes, mountains, and stars.
On the lens it is marked with the ∞ symbol.
Image Format
Image format refers to the type of file saved by the camera:
- JPEG
- RAW
- PNG
- TIFF
RAW gives maximum editing flexibility.
Interpolation
Interpolation is when software increases image size by creating new pixels.
It can reduce sharpness if the image is enlarged too much.
Image Histogram
A histogram is a graph showing brightness levels in a photo:
- left side = shadows
- middle = midtones
- right side = highlights
It helps check exposure accurately.
ICC Profile
An ICC profile is a color standard that ensures accurate colors across devices like cameras, monitors, and printers.
It helps maintain consistent color when printing photos.
ICM (Intelligent Contrast Management)
ICM is a feature in some cameras and editing software that automatically adjusts contrast and brightness for better exposure.
Image Upscaling
Upscaling is the process of increasing the resolution of an image using software.
Modern AI upscalers can increase size while keeping details sharp.
Image Stacking
Image stacking is combining multiple images to improve quality.
Used for:
- astrophotography
- macro photography
- noise reduction
- focus stacking
Internal Reflection
Internal reflection happens when light bounces inside a lens, causing:
- lens flare
- ghosting
- loss of contrast
Lens coatings help reduce this.
