The Evolution of Shutter Technology: Expanding the Possibilities of Expression | Knowledge #243
Cover photo by take_apii1
The shutter, essential for photography, has evolved remarkably over time. Initially operated manually, it transitioned to complex and precise mechanisms, and eventually to a new era of electronic control.
This article explores the dynamic evolution of shutter technology from past to present and into the future, reaching the forefront of expanding photographic expression.
The Foundation of Photography Built by Mechanical Shutters
In the early days of photography in the 19th century, exposure relied on manually removing the lens cap.
With the introduction of the falling shutter in 1845, mechanical shutters like the focal-plane and leaf shutters were established, enabling precise exposure control. Their charm remains strong in the world of film cameras even today.
The Quiet Revolution Brought by Electronic Shutters
In the latter half of the 20th century, electronically controlled shutters emerged, making cameras quieter, faster, and more robust.
Recently, technology has evolved to utilize the image sensor itself as a shutter, achieving a completely electronic shutter without mechanisms. Combined with AI for automatic optimization, the shooting experience is becoming more intuitive.
Global Shutters: Opening New Doors to Depiction
The global shutter, anticipated as the next generation of shutter technology, controls all pixels simultaneously. This method eliminates distortion and flicker phenomena caused by traditional rolling shutters, allowing accurate depiction even with moving subjects.
In the future, integration with IoT and energy-efficient designs will realize a smarter shooting experience.
