The efficient and effective use of visual media such as photography, film, video and digital imaging is enhanced by an understanding and working knowledge of the optical principles involved in visual perception, image formation and subsequent recording processes for access, duplication and dissemination of images. These principles find application at every stage, from viewing and lighting the subject to the choice and use of suitable optical equipment and the evaluation of the final image.
The topic of photographic optics is taken to cover not only lenses but also viewfinder systems, focusing arrangements and the numerous ancillary optical systems found not only in cameras but also to varying extents in associated apparatus for the projection and viewing of images. The topic also now includes optical aspects of electronic and digital imaging using electro-optical and opto-electronic systems that have replaced or enhanced traditional optical and mechanical arrangements. This electronic enrichment of equipment extends both their imaging and functional capabilities.
This book is intended primarily for the student, general practitioner or specialist actively working with visual, digital and electronic media, and much less so for the optical designer or engineer. Its primary objectives are to give a selective overview and explanation of relevant optical theory and technology, to explain the capabilities and limitations of contemporary lenses and optical systems, and finally, to demonstrate the integration of both theory and optical systems into a range of imaging applications and craft skills. To develop this approach, the contents are divided into three major sections that detail optical theory, lens properties and optical systems.
The design of lenses and optical systems is a specialist subject and has been excluded; this is deliberate, as excellent texts are available elsewhere, but numerous formulae, data and examples have been included to permit calculation of the first-order and more general properties of lenses and the layout of optical systems. To this end, both the simplified notation and the sign convention used give most formulae in their traditional form so as to relate to other frequently used texts. Any necessary departures from these are clearly indicated to avoid possible ambiguities.
Where appropriate and useful, proofs or derivations are provided of various important relationships and formulae, especially if these are not readily accessible elsewhere. Only a modest knowledge of science and mathematics is necessary to obtain useful insights from the text. Various practical situations are described to provide numerical examples and explanations.
The historical development of photographic optics is not covered in depth, only the significant developments of the nineteenth century are discussed and their later optimized realization in contemporary designs. However, some topics require some evolutionary background to be explained. Regrettably, the very large number of individual lens designs now available excludes the possibility of a contemporary directory of lens types and makes, but designs of technological importance are detailed where possible.
The comprehensive lists of both references and further reading provide details of primary source material and much fuller mathematical or theoretical treatments, together with case histories and extensive notes on usage. Tables of data, graphs and specific details of practical situations are given in the hope that these may make this book a useful companion rather than just a reference volume.
This third edition has been revised and enlarged to cover the numerous advances in most topics in the last decade, particularly in optical technology, as well as photographic, video, electronic and digital imaging systems. Where possible, new material has been integrated with the original text to keep intact the original structure of the book but inevitably some rearrangement of material has been necessary. The only significant removal has been a chapter on holography, but this has been replaced by material on the optics of digital cameras. To reflect the increasing use of digital photography, relevant material has been integrated throughout the chapters. The number of relevant references and suggestions for additional reading has been increased significantly and numerous new diagrams and illustrations are provided. A number of plates have been used to complement the text and diagrams. The opportunity has been taken to correct any errors and omissions in the previous edition. The level and objectives of the contents have not been changed, and by detailing contemporary equipment and practices this book should remain useful for both study and reference purposes.