一眼(いちがん)

いちがん
noun
single-lens camera (SLR or mirrorless)
electronics
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)カメラを買(か)った。
I bought a single-lens camera.
I photograph wild birds with a DSLR.
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

Similar words

Usage

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.