What is Camera Format?
A – Camera Format refers to the size of the imaging sensor. Common formats are ¼”, ½”, 1/3″, 2/3″, and 1″. The size of the sensor directly affects the field of view obtained. When using the same size lens on different format sensors, different viewing areas are obtained. For example, using a 6mm lens on a 1/3″ sensor will give you a 37degree field of view the 56 degree and 74 degree on a 2/3″ sensor. It is important to make sure you have a lens that was designed for your camera’s format. The lens must be designed for at least the size of your sensor. For instance, you can use a 1″ camera. If you use a lens designed for a smaller format camera, the image will be vignetted. Also, by using a lens designed for a larger format sensor, the field of view you get will be greater than what is specified.