Translation guide
A type of camera that uses a mirror and prism system so the photographer sees exactly what the lens sees. In Japanese, the term is usually abbreviated to 一眼レフ (ichigan refu) or simply デジタル一眼 (dejitaru ichigan).
The learner wants to refer to a digital single-lens reflex camera in conversation or writing.
The full technical term, commonly used in product descriptions and formal contexts. Often shortened in casual speech.
新しいデジタル一眼レフを買いました。
I bought a new digital single-lens reflex camera.
The most common abbreviation, literally 'single-lens reflex'. Often implies digital unless context specifies film.
一眼レフの使い方を教えてください。
Please teach me how to use a DSLR.
A shorter abbreviation, common in marketing and among enthusiasts. Drops 'reflex' but understood as DSLR.
デジタル一眼の入門機を探しています。
I'm looking for an entry-level digital SLR.
Full form with 'camera' added, used when clarity is needed. Slightly more formal.
一眼レフカメラのレンズを交換する。
I change the lens on my SLR camera.
The learner wants to specify a DSLR as opposed to a mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera.
Explicitly contrasts with mirrorless cameras. Use when the distinction matters.
ミラーレスではなく一眼レフが欲しいです。
I want a DSLR, not a mirrorless camera.
Describes a camera with an optical viewfinder, a key feature of DSLRs. Often used in technical discussions.
光学ファインダー付きのカメラが好きです。
I like cameras with an optical viewfinder.
The learner needs to refer to a film single-lens reflex camera, possibly contrasting with digital.
Specifies a film SLR. Use when the medium is important.
フィルム一眼レフで撮影するのが趣味です。
My hobby is shooting with a film SLR.
Literally 'silver halide SLR', a technical term for film cameras. Used among enthusiasts.
銀塩一眼レフの良さを見直す人もいる。
Some people are rediscovering the merits of film SLRs.
In everyday Japanese, it's rare to say the full 'デジタル一眼レフカメラ'. Stick to 一眼レフ or デジタル一眼 unless you need to be very precise.