A full frame sensor camera is defined by its sensor size, which is 36 mm by 24 mm. This specific sensor size has a significant impact on the images produced by these cameras, leading to a distinctive look.
Key Characteristics of Full-Frame Sensors
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Size | 36 mm x 24 mm |
| Surface Area | More than twice the area of a Super 35 mm sensor. |
| Angle of View | Provides a wider angle of view compared to smaller sensors, given the same lens. |
| Depth of Field | Allows for a shallower depth of field, creating pleasing background blur (bokeh). |
Why does sensor size matter?
The size of a camera's sensor is fundamental in determining the quality and characteristics of the images it captures. A larger sensor, like a full-frame sensor, gathers more light compared to smaller sensor sizes. This has several implications:
- Better Low-Light Performance: Larger sensors perform better in low light conditions because they collect more photons, reducing noise and allowing for cleaner, more detailed images.
- Wider Field of View: With a full-frame sensor, a lens will produce the angle of view it was designed for, while with a smaller sensor, the angle will be "cropped", narrowing it.
- Shallower Depth of Field: Full-frame sensors make it easier to achieve a shallow depth of field, useful for portraits and creative shots.
Full-Frame vs. Smaller Sensors: A Comparison
- Surface Area Advantage: A full-frame sensor has a significantly larger surface area compared to smaller sensors, such as those found in APS-C cameras or smartphone cameras. This larger area is key to the image benefits it offers. The reference specifically notes that a full frame sensor has "over twice the surface area" of a Super 35mm sensor.
- Visual Impact: The larger surface area directly influences the "distinctive look" of images taken with full frame cameras. This look is characterized by shallower depth of field, smoother backgrounds, and less noise.
- Professional Use: Full-frame cameras are often preferred by professional photographers and videographers because of the advantages they offer in terms of image quality, lens compatibility and the ability to work effectively in challenging lighting conditions.
In Summary
Full-frame sensor cameras are distinguished by their 36mm by 24mm sensor size, which is larger than most other camera sensor formats. This larger sensor size allows for a greater light-gathering ability, wider field of view and shallower depth of field, which leads to higher quality images and greater creative control.
