F

Fill-in Flash

One of the flash modes. When the flash mode is set to [AUTO], the camera sets off the flash according to the ambient light conditions. However, when the subject is darkened due to backlight, the flash may not automatically go off. Set to [Fill-in Flash] to set off the flash regardless of brightness.

Filter

A filter is attached to the lens and used to reduce ultraviolet light and light reflecting off the subject. There are also filters for protecting the lens and for achieving particular photographic effects.

Fine Zoom

Function that allows you to zoom in beyond the camera's optical zoom. The Fine Zoom takes only the central portion of the image pickup device (CCD), so it results in a picture that is closer (more enlarged) than one taken at the maximum magnification of the optical zoom. Using the Digital Zoom, the cropped part is enlarged until the selected image size, so the more the image is enlarged, the larger the deterioration in image quality. With Fine Zoom, on the other hand, the image is recorded in its smaller size so there is no deterioration in image quality. The smaller the image size selected in the image quality settings, the larger its magnification. Pay attention when printing the image since selecting a large print size can result in a grainy photo.

Flare

A camera lens is a combination of several lenses. Flare is caused by the stray reflections inside the lens of strong light sources like direct sunlight, making the picture duller. It occurs as the result of taking pictures against backlight (or semi-backlight).

Flash Off

One of the flash modes. When the flash mode is set to [AUTO], the camera sets off the flash according to the ambient light conditions. However, flash photography may be prohibited in some locations. You can avoid accidentally setting off the flash by setting the flash mode to [Flash off].

Focal Length

This is the distance from the lens to the focusing plain (image pickup device). When the focal length is shorter (smaller value), a wider field of view will appear in the picture; longer focal lengths (larger values) will result in a narrower field of view. Lenses with short focal lengths are referred to as wide-angle lenses and lenses with long focal lengths are referred to as Telephoto lenses.

Focus Lock

One of the focusing techniques that are available. In general, the camera performs focusing and metering when the shutter button is pressed halfway. The focus and exposure will be fixed for as long as you continue pressing the shutter button halfway. Then, move the camera to your desired framing and press the shutter button down all the way. Use this technique when no subject exists at your desired focusing point.

Frame assist

Some camera models display gridlines on the LCD monitor to assist you in deciding the picture composition. There are also camera models that display horizontal and vertical gridlines on the monitor, while other models display them in the shape of a cross.

Front Light

It means that the light source is behind you (the photographer). The light comes from in front of the subject, so the exposure setting automatically determined by the camera can normally produce good pictures.

Full Auto

In this mode, the camera measures the brightness of the subject and automatically determines the shutter speed and aperture. The shutter speed and aperture combinations are predetermined and can be selected according to the measured brightness. This mode is similar to Program Auto, but you cannot change the camera settings. This mode corresponds to AUTO on the mode dial.