How is physics involved in the application of cameras?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the diverse applications of photographic cameras beyond their primary function of capturing images. Participants highlight the use of high-speed cameras in physics-oriented applications such as Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and light scattering measurements. The conversation emphasizes the broad definition of a camera as an optical system, which can include variations like camera obscura and spectroscopic cameras. This understanding opens up numerous possibilities for innovative uses in scientific and artistic fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of optical systems and their components
  • Familiarity with Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV)
  • Knowledge of time-lapse photography techniques
  • Basic principles of light scattering and spectroscopy
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV)
  • Explore techniques in time-lapse photography
  • Learn about the functionality of spectroscopic cameras
  • Investigate the physics behind light scattering measurements
USEFUL FOR

Photographers, physicists, and engineers interested in the innovative applications of photographic cameras in both scientific research and creative projects.

parcerita
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So for a project I am asked to give examples of how cameras are used. Of course the obvious use is clear, but how else (hopefully physics involved ways) are cameras used?

Forgot to mention, my project is on photographic not digital cameras.
 
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What is the obvious use?

How many "flavours" of this obvious use can you think of?
 
To me the obvious use is to take pictures. I really can't think of anything else a photographic camera is used for...
 
High speed cameras have a lot of physics-oriented applications. We use a camera for PIV (particle image velocimetry), to detect scatter IR rays.
 
This may seem odd, but have you defined what a camera "is"? For example, most people assume a camera is a lens and detector (film or digital), because that describes what most people use.

But, it's possible to have a camera with no lens (camera obscura). Or a camera that looks at 1-d lines rather than 2-d images. Or a spectroscopic camera that measures spectra rather than images.

Once you see that a camera is a generic optical system, you can come up with all kinds of applications. Time-lapse photography, real-time image processing, (static) light scattering measurements... all can be done with a simple camera.
 
parcerita said:
To me the obvious use is to take pictures.
Yes but: of what?
 

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