Every time you press the shutter, light is transformed from its original form (waves and particles) into zeroes and ones. In this chapter, we’ll examine the way sensors capture images—how your carefully created captures (which contain loads of rich information, from textures and highlights to emotion and decisive moments) become a set of data that’s recorded to a memory card. To apply our “technology powers artistry” theme to the subject, we’ll explore the way light becomes data and data becomes your image. Added bonus: when you understand sensor technology, it’s easier to make sound decisions about which camera to buy and when to replace your old one.

The odds are that your camera ...

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