(いちがん)

いちがん
noun
single-lens (camera)
1. single-lens reflex (camera); SLR
A camera that uses a single lens for both viewing and taking photos, typically referring to DSLR or mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses.
一眼(いちがん)カメラを()った。
I bought a single-lens camera.
一眼(いちがん)レフで野鳥(やちょう)撮影(さつえい)する。
I photograph wild birds with a DSLR.
ミラーレス一眼(いちがん)(かる)くて()(はこ)びやすい。
Mirrorless cameras are light and easy to carry.

一眼(いちがん) is commonly used as shorthand for 一眼(いちがん)レフカメラ.

TYPES:

  • 一眼(いちがん)レフ: DSLR (digital single-lens reflex)
  • ミラーレス一眼(いちがん): mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera

COMPARISON:

  • 一眼(いちがん): SLR/mirrorless (interchangeable lenses, large sensor)
  • コンパクトカメラ/コンデジ: compact camera (fixed lens)

NUANCE:
In casual conversation, 一眼(いちがん) implies a "serious" camera for photography enthusiasts, as opposed to smartphone cameras or compact point-and-shoots.