Almost everyone today has a camera to capture interesting and meaningful moments for eternity. The hobbyists and amateurs use cameras that are cheaper while the professionals produce stunning photographs with the help of high end expensive cameras like the Sony Alpha 900. Whether you are a professional or an amateur, it is important to be knowledgeable about the various components of your camera in order to be sure you are using the right one.

An important aspect of photography is the aspect ratio which is nothing but the height and width measurement of a photograph. This ratio depends on the type of film used. A 35 mm film for example measures 36:24 and provides a 3:2 aspect ratio. It is possible with this ratio to obtain a picture of size 6” x 4”. Aspect ratios are as important in computer technology and cinemas as in photographs.

Letter prefixes determine the medium for which the particular aspect ration applies to. For example, P denotes the panoramic aspect ratios, C denotes the classic or standard ratio and H refers to the HDTV aspect ratios. C and P ratios are usually used in photography.

When you buy the film for your camera therefore, ensure you buy the right aspect ration depending on the size of the print you require as this will give you a crisp and clear picture. As far as digital photography aspect ratios are concerned, standard compact digital cameras typically use a 4:3 aspect ratio; whilst DSLR cameras, such as the Olympus E-420 14-42mm, usually use a 3:2 aspect ratio. Printing a photograph taken with an aspect ratio that does not relate to the print size, will pad the photo edges. Sides and top of the photograph will tend to be cropped. To avoid all this, choose the film with a perfect aspect ration for good quality pictures.