Re: Why 3:2 ?

On Sat, 03 Dec 2005 22:40:15 GMT, "Mike Jacoubowsky"
<MikeJ@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

>> Just wondering why most DSLRs use the 3:2 aspect ratio, when a 4:3
>> aspect ratio makes better use of the lens, i.e. uses more the (sharper)
>> central part of the lens.
>>
>> I understand that film is standardised at 36x24mm, but with a DLSR any
>> sensor size within a 36x36mm square should be possible.
>> --
>>
>> Alfred Molon
>
>Tradition (better acceptance of new technology if it shares similar
>features, in this case, aspect ratios, to what came before) plus something
>practical- we typically sweep side-to-side with our eyes, when taking in a
>scene. Less often (or less obvious) we look up & down. Thus a 3:2 aspect
>ratio appears to take in more.
>
>Plus, we're taught to prefer "widescreen" presentations at movies and now in
>our homes as well. 4:3 is basically old-school TV.
>
>So perhaps the question becomes, why aren't more non-DSLR units 3:2? You've
>already brought up the practical aspect of that decision (using more of the
>lens). Wonder if there's anything else?

And yet virtually no finished pictures you see in publications are 3:2
with far more being closer to 4:3. Why not start out right?
-Rich
.

Relevant Pages

  • Re: Why 3:2 ?
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  • Re: SX210ISs wide screen is not a 3:2
    ... aspect ratio so that it can print 4x6 without cropping. ... will now attempt to return this camera and try another purchase. ... Landscape, it seems like the "landscape" you have in mind here may not be ... cropped photo taken by regular lens. ...
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  • Re: Why 3:2 ?
    ... aspect ratio makes better use of the lens, i.e. uses more the (sharper) central part of the lens. ... I understand that film is standardised at 36x24mm, ...
    (rec.photo.digital)
  • Re: Aspect Ratio...
    ... 'wide-angle' shots with both these cameras, ... The 300D gives me a 6 x 4 ratio, ... are these digicam shots almost square and the DSLRs are more ... The focal length of a lens has nothing to do with the aspect ratio. ...
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  • Re: Why 3:2 ?
    ... >aspect ratio makes better use of the lens, i.e. uses more the (sharper) ... >central part of the lens. ... why not make round sensors and use the entire ...
    (rec.photo.digital)